Sample records for php design patterns

  1. Pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib associated with novel duplications in the GNAS locus.

    PubMed

    Perez-Nanclares, Gustavo; Velayos, Teresa; Vela, Amaya; Muñoz-Torres, Manuel; Castaño, Luis

    2015-01-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1b (PHP-Ib) is characterized by renal resistance to PTH (and, sometimes, a mild resistance to TSH) and absence of any features of Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy. Patients with PHP-Ib suffer of defects in the methylation pattern of the complex GNAS locus. PHP-Ib can be either sporadic or inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Whereas familial PHP-Ib is well characterized at the molecular level, the genetic cause of sporadic PHP-Ib cases remains elusive, although some molecular mechanisms have been associated with this subtype. The aim of the study was to investigate the molecular and imprinting defects in the GNAS locus in two unrelated patients with PHP-Ib. We have analyzed the GNAS locus by direct sequencing, Methylation-Specific Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification, microsatellites, Quantitative Multiplex PCR of Short Fluorescent fragments and array-Comparative Genomic Hybridization studies in order to characterize two unrelated families with clinical features of PHP-Ib. We identified two duplications in the GNAS region in two patients with PHP-Ib: one of them, comprising ∼ 320 kb, occurred 'de novo' in the patient, whereas the other one, of ∼ 179 kb in length, was inherited from the maternal allele. In both cases, no other known genetic cause was observed. In this article, we describe the to-our-knowledge biggest duplications reported so far in the GNAS region. Both are associated to PHP-Ib, one of them occurring 'de novo' and the other one being maternally inherited.

  2. Analysing Student Programs in the PHP Intelligent Tutoring System

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Weragama, Dinesha; Reye, Jim

    2014-01-01

    Programming is a subject that many beginning students find difficult. The PHP Intelligent Tutoring System (PHP ITS) has been designed with the aim of making it easier for novices to learn the PHP language in order to develop dynamic web pages. Programming requires practice. This makes it necessary to include practical exercises in any ITS that…

  3. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of pseudohypoparathyroidism patients with GNAS imprinting defects.

    PubMed

    Rochtus, Anne; Martin-Trujillo, Alejandro; Izzi, Benedetta; Elli, Francesca; Garin, Intza; Linglart, Agnes; Mantovani, Giovanna; Perez de Nanclares, Guiomar; Thiele, Suzanne; Decallonne, Brigitte; Van Geet, Chris; Monk, David; Freson, Kathleen

    2016-01-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is caused by (epi)genetic defects in the imprinted GNAS cluster. Current classification of PHP patients is hampered by clinical and molecular diagnostic overlaps. The European Consortium for the study of PHP designed a genome-wide methylation study to improve molecular diagnosis. The HumanMethylation 450K BeadChip was used to analyze genome-wide methylation in 24 PHP patients with parathyroid hormone resistance and 20 age- and gender-matched controls. Patients were previously diagnosed with GNAS-specific differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and include 6 patients with known STX16 deletion (PHP(Δstx16)) and 18 without deletion (PHP(neg)). The array demonstrated that PHP patients do not show DNA methylation differences at the whole-genome level. Unsupervised clustering of GNAS-specific DMRs divides PHP(Δstx16) versus PHP(neg) patients. Interestingly, in contrast to the notion that all PHP patients share methylation defects in the A/B DMR while only PHP(Δstx16) patients have normal NESP, GNAS-AS1 and XL methylation, we found a novel DMR (named GNAS-AS2) in the GNAS-AS1 region that is significantly different in both PHP(Δstx16) and PHP(neg), as validated by Sequenom EpiTYPER in a larger PHP cohort. The analysis of 58 DMRs revealed that 8/18 PHP(neg) and 1/6 PHP(Δstx16) patients have multi-locus methylation defects. Validation was performed for FANCC and SVOPL DMRs. This is the first genome-wide methylation study for PHP patients that confirmed that GNAS is the most significant DMR, and the presence of STX16 deletion divides PHP patients in two groups. Moreover, a novel GNAS-AS2 DMR affects all PHP patients, and PHP patients seem sensitive to multi-locus methylation defects.

  4. blend4php: a PHP API for galaxy

    PubMed Central

    Wytko, Connor; Soto, Brian; Ficklin, Stephen P.

    2017-01-01

    Galaxy is a popular framework for execution of complex analytical pipelines typically for large data sets, and is a commonly used for (but not limited to) genomic, genetic and related biological analysis. It provides a web front-end and integrates with high performance computing resources. Here we report the development of the blend4php library that wraps Galaxy’s RESTful API into a PHP-based library. PHP-based web applications can use blend4php to automate execution, monitoring and management of a remote Galaxy server, including its users, workflows, jobs and more. The blend4php library was specifically developed for the integration of Galaxy with Tripal, the open-source toolkit for the creation of online genomic and genetic web sites. However, it was designed as an independent library for use by any application, and is freely available under version 3 of the GNU Lesser General Public License (LPGL v3.0) at https://github.com/galaxyproject/blend4php. Database URL: https://github.com/galaxyproject/blend4php PMID:28077564

  5. blend4php: a PHP API for galaxy.

    PubMed

    Wytko, Connor; Soto, Brian; Ficklin, Stephen P

    2017-01-01

    Galaxy is a popular framework for execution of complex analytical pipelines typically for large data sets, and is a commonly used for (but not limited to) genomic, genetic and related biological analysis. It provides a web front-end and integrates with high performance computing resources. Here we report the development of the blend4php library that wraps Galaxy's RESTful API into a PHP-based library. PHP-based web applications can use blend4php to automate execution, monitoring and management of a remote Galaxy server, including its users, workflows, jobs and more. The blend4php library was specifically developed for the integration of Galaxy with Tripal, the open-source toolkit for the creation of online genomic and genetic web sites. However, it was designed as an independent library for use by any application, and is freely available under version 3 of the GNU Lesser General Public License (LPGL v3.0) at https://github.com/galaxyproject/blend4phpDatabase URL: https://github.com/galaxyproject/blend4php. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  6. Current Nomenclature of Pseudohypoparathyroidism: Inactivating Parathyroid Hormone/Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Signaling Disorder

    PubMed Central

    Turan, Serap

    2017-01-01

    Disorders related to parathyroid hormone (PTH) resistance and PTH signaling pathway impairment are historically classified under the term of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP). The disease was first described and named by Fuller Albright and colleagues in 1942. Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) is described as an associated clinical entity with PHP, characterized by brachydactyly, subcutaneous ossifications, round face, short stature and a stocky build. The classification of PHP is further divided into PHP-Ia, pseudo-PHP (pPHP), PHP-Ib, PHP-Ic and PHP-II according to the presence or absence of AHO, together with an in vivo response to exogenous PTH and the measurement of Gsα protein activity in peripheral erythrocyte membranes in vitro. However, PHP classification fails to differentiate all patients with different clinical and molecular findings for PHP subtypes and classification become more complicated with more recent molecular characterization and new forms having been identified. So far, new classifications have been established by the EuroPHP network to cover all disorders of the PTH receptor and its signaling pathway. Inactivating PTH/PTH-related protein signaling disorder (iPPSD) is the new name proposed for a group of these disorders and which can be further divided into subtypes - iPPSD1 to iPPSD6. These are termed, starting from PTH receptor inactivation mutation (Eiken and Blomstrand dysplasia) as iPPSD1, inactivating Gsα mutations (PHP-Ia, PHP-Ic and pPHP) as iPPSD2, loss of methylation of GNAS DMRs (PHP-Ib) as iPPSD3, PRKAR1A mutations (acrodysostosis type 1) as iPPSD4, PDE4D mutations (acrodysostosis type 2) as iPPSD5 and PDE3A mutations (autosomal dominant hypertension with brachydactyly) as iPPSD6. iPPSDx is reserved for unknown molecular defects and iPPSDn+1 for new molecular defects which are yet to be described. With these new classifications, the aim is to clarify the borders of each different subtype of disease and make the classification according to molecular pathology. The iPPSD group is designed to be expandable and new classifications will readily fit into it as necessary. PMID:29280743

  7. Current Nomenclature of Pseudohypoparathyroidism: Inactivating Parathyroid Hormone/Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Signaling Disorder.

    PubMed

    Turan, Serap

    2017-12-30

    Disorders related to parathyroid hormone (PTH) resistance and PTH signaling pathway impairment are historically classified under the term of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP). The disease was first described and named by Fuller Albright and colleagues in 1942. Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) is described as an associated clinical entity with PHP, characterized by brachydactyly, subcutaneous ossifications, round face, short stature and a stocky build. The classification of PHP is further divided into PHP-Ia, pseudo-PHP (pPHP), PHP-Ib, PHP-Ic and PHP-II according to the presence or absence of AHO, together with an in vivo response to exogenous PTH and the measurement of Gsα protein activity in peripheral erythrocyte membranes in vitro. However, PHP classification fails to differentiate all patients with different clinical and molecular findings for PHP subtypes and classification become more complicated with more recent molecular characterization and new forms having been identified. So far, new classifications have been established by the EuroPHP network to cover all disorders of the PTH receptor and its signaling pathway. Inactivating PTH/PTH-related protein signaling disorder (iPPSD) is the new name proposed for a group of these disorders and which can be further divided into subtypes - iPPSD1 to iPPSD6. These are termed, starting from PTH receptor inactivation mutation (Eiken and Blomstrand dysplasia) as iPPSD1, inactivating Gsα mutations (PHP-Ia, PHP-Ic and pPHP) as iPPSD2, loss of methylation of GNAS DMRs (PHP-Ib) as iPPSD3, PRKAR1A mutations (acrodysostosis type 1) as iPPSD4, PDE4D mutations (acrodysostosis type 2) as iPPSD5 and PDE3A mutations (autosomal dominant hypertension with brachydactyly) as iPPSD6. iPPSDx is reserved for unknown molecular defects and iPPSDn+1 for new molecular defects which are yet to be described. With these new classifications, the aim is to clarify the borders of each different subtype of disease and make the classification according to molecular pathology. The iPPSD group is designed to be expandable and new classifications will readily fit into it as necessary.

  8. U-PHOS Project: Development of a Large Diameter Pulsating Heat Pipe Experiment on board REXUS 22

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nannipieri, P.; Anichini, M.; Barsocchi, L.; Becatti, G.; Buoni, L.; Celi, F.; Catarsi, A.; Di Giorgio, P.; Fattibene, P.; Ferrato, E.; Guardati, P.; Mancini, E.; Meoni, G.; Nesti, F.; Piacquadio, S.; Pratelli, E.; Quadrelli, L.; Viglione, A. S.; Zanaboni, F.; Mameli, M.; Baronti, F.; Fanucci, L.; Marcuccio, S.; Bartoli, C.; Di Marco, P.; Bianco, N.; Marengo, M.; Filippeschi, S.

    2017-01-01

    U-PHOS Project aims at analysing and characterising the behaviour of a large diameter Pulsating Heat Pipe (PHP) on board REXUS 22 sounding rocket. A PHP is a passive thermal control device where the heat is efficiently transported by means of the self-sustained oscillatory fluid motion driven by the phase change phenomena. Since, in milli-gravity conditions, buoyancy forces become less intense, the PHP diameter may be increased still maintaining the slug/plug typical flow pattern. Consequently, the PHP heat power capability may be increased too. U-PHOS aims at proving that a large diameter PHP effectively works in milli-g conditions by characterizing its thermal response during a sounding rocket flight. The actual PHP tube is made of aluminum (3 mm inner diameter, filled with FC-72), heated at the evaporator by a compact electrical resistance, cooled at the condenser by a Phase Change Material (PCM) embedded in a metallic foam. The tube wall temperatures are recorded by means of Fibre Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors; the local fluid pressure is acquired by means of a pressure transducer. The present work intends to report the actual status of the project, focusing in particular on the experiment improvements with respect to the previous campaign.

  9. Social support, acculturation, and optimism: understanding positive health practices in Asian American college students.

    PubMed

    Ayres, Cynthia G; Mahat, Ganga

    2012-07-01

    This study developed and tested a theory to better understand positive health practices (PHP) among Asian Americans aged 18 to 21 years. It tested theoretical relationships postulated between PHP and (a) social support (SS), (b) optimism, and (c) acculturation, and between SS and optimism and acculturation. Optimism and acculturation were also tested as possible mediators in the relationship between SS and PHP. A correlational study design was used. A convenience sample of 163 Asian college students in an urban setting completed four questionnaires assessing SS, PHP, optimism, and acculturation and one demographic questionnaire. There were statistically significant positive relationships between SS and optimism with PHP, between acculturation and PHP, and between optimism and SS. Optimism mediated the relationship between SS and PHP, whereas acculturation did not. Findings extend knowledge regarding these relationships to a defined population of Asian Americans aged 18 to 21 years. Findings contribute to a more comprehensive knowledge base regarding health practices among Asian Americans. The theoretical and empirical findings of this study provide the direction for future research as well. Further studies need to be conducted to identify and test other mediators in order to better understand the relationship between these two variables.

  10. Experimental Characterization of Cryogenic Helium Pulsating Heat Pipes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fonseca Flores, Luis Diego

    This study was inspired to investigate an alternative cooling system using a helium-based pulsating heat pipes (PHP), for low temperature superconducting magnets in MRI systems. In addition, the same approach can be used for exploring other low temperature applications such as cooling space instrumentation. The advantages of PHP for transferring heat and smoothing temperature profiles in various room temperature applications have been explored for the past 20 years. An experimental apparatus has been designed, fabricated and operated and is primarily composed of an evaporator and a condenser; in which both are thermally connected by a closed loop capillary tubing. The main goal is to measure the heat transfer properties of this device using helium as the working fluid. The evaporator end of the PHP is comprised of a copper winding in which heat loads up to 10 watts are generated, while the condenser is isothermal and can reach 4.2 K at 1 W via a two stage Sumitomo RDK408A2 GM cryocooler. Various experimental design features are highlighted. Additionally, the thermal performance for the presented design remained unchanged when increasing the adiabatic length from 300 mm to 1000 mm. Finally a spring mass damper model has been developed and proven to predict well the experimental data, such models should be used as tool to design and manufacturer PHP prototypes.

  11. A Web-based Examination System Based on PHP+MySQL.

    PubMed

    Wen, Ji; Zhang, Yang; Yan, Yong; Xia, Shunren

    2005-01-01

    The design and implementation of web-based examination system constructed by PHP and MySQL is presented in this paper. Three primary parts, including students',teachers' and administrators', are introduced and analyzed in detail. Initial application has demonstrated the system's feasibility and reasonability.*

  12. Reduced prokaryotic heterotrophic production at in situ pressure conditions in the dark ocean

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Amano-Sato, Chie; Sintes, Eva; Reinthaler, Thomas; Utsumi, Motoo; Herndl, Gerhard J.

    2017-04-01

    Prokaryotic heterotrophic production (PHP) is a key process in the ocean's biological carbon cycle. About 50% of the oceanic PHP takes place in the dark ocean characterized by low temperature and high hydrostatic pressure, which increases by 1 MPa (10 atm) every 100 m depth. However, rate measurements of PHP are usually performed under atmospheric pressure conditions. Yet, the difference in pressure conditions and the handling of the samples on board may introduce biases in the PHP measurements. To determine PHP at in situ conditions, we developed an in situ microbial incubator (ISMI) designed to autonomously sample and incubate seawater down to a depth of 4000 m. Natural prokaryotic communities from the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans were incubated in the ISMI with 5 nM 3H-leucine at different depths ranging between 10 and 3200 m. For comparison, atmospheric pressure incubations at in situ temperature were also conducted. PHP and single cell activity assessed by microautoradiography combined with catalyzed reporter deposition fluorescence in situ hybridization (MICRO-CARD-FISH) were determined. PHP obtained under in situ pressure conditions was generally lower than under atmospheric pressure conditions, suggesting that incubation under atmospheric pressure on board stimulates activity of dark ocean prokaryotes. The ratio between the bulk PHP obtained under in situ and under atmospheric pressure conditions decreased with depth. Moreover, MICRO-CARD-FISH revealed that some specific prokaryotic groups are apparently more affected by the hydrostatic pressure condition than others. Our results suggest that PHP in the dark ocean might be lower than assumed based on measurements under surface pressure conditions.

  13. Renaissance of the Web

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCarty, M.

    2009-09-01

    The renaissance of the web has driven development of many new technologies that have forever changed the way we write software. The resulting tools have been applied to both solve problems and creat new ones in a wide range of domains ranging from monitor and control user interfaces to information distribution. This discussion covers which of and how these technologies are being used in the astronomical computing community. Topics include JavaScript, Cascading Style Sheets, HTML, XML, JSON, RSS, iCalendar, Java, PHP, Python, Ruby on Rails, database technologies, and web frameworks/design patterns.

  14. Using PHP/MySQL to Manage Potential Mass Impacts

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hager, Benjamin I.

    2010-01-01

    This paper presents a new application using commercially available software to manage mass properties for spaceflight vehicles. PHP/MySQL(PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor and My Structured Query Language) are a web scripting language and a database language commonly used in concert with each other. They open up new opportunities to develop cutting edge mass properties tools, and in particular, tools for the management of potential mass impacts (threats and opportunities). The paper begins by providing an overview of the functions and capabilities of PHP/MySQL. The focus of this paper is on how PHP/MySQL are being used to develop an advanced "web accessible" database system for identifying and managing mass impacts on NASA's Ares I Upper Stage program, managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center. To fully describe this application, examples of the data, search functions, and views are provided to promote, not only the function, but the security, ease of use, simplicity, and eye-appeal of this new application. This paper concludes with an overview of the other potential mass properties applications and tools that could be developed using PHP/MySQL. The premise behind this paper is that PHP/MySQL are software tools that are easy to use and readily available for the development of cutting edge mass properties applications. These tools are capable of providing "real-time" searching and status of an active database, automated report generation, and other capabilities to streamline and enhance mass properties management application. By using PHP/MySQL, proven existing methods for managing mass properties can be adapted to present-day information technology to accelerate mass properties data gathering, analysis, and reporting, allowing mass property management to keep pace with today's fast-pace design and development processes.

  15. Identification and characterization of new designer drug 4-fluoro-PV9 and α-PHP in the seized materials.

    PubMed

    Majchrzak, Milena; Rojkiewicz, Marcin; Celiński, Rafał; Kuś, Piotr; Sajewicz, Mieczysław

    In this study, we present identification and physicochemical characterization of new cathinone derivatives, 4-fluoro-PV9 and already known α-PHP in seized materials. Although the disclosure of α-PHP from an illegal product had been reported and characterized to some extent, the data on α-PHP are also presented together with those of 4-fluoro-PV9. The data of characterization for the two compounds were obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-mass spectrometry and HPLC-diode array detection, electrospray ionization/ion trap mass spectrometry in MS 2 and MS 3 modes, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. To our knowledge, this is the first report for identification and detailed characterization of 4-fluoro-PV9 circulated on the illegal drug market.

  16. Correlations between M-CHARTS and PHP findings and subjective perception of metamorphopsia in patients with macular diseases.

    PubMed

    Arimura, Eiko; Matsumoto, Chota; Nomoto, Hiroki; Hashimoto, Shigeki; Takada, Sonoko; Okuyama, Sachiko; Shimomura, Yoshikazu

    2011-01-05

    To assess the correlations between a patient's subjective perception of metamorphopsia and the clinical measurements of metamorphopsia by M-CHARTS and PreView PHP (PHP). The authors designed a 10-item questionnaire focusing on the symptoms of metamorphopsia and verified its validity with a Rasch analysis. M-CHARTS measured the minimum visual angle of a dotted line needed to detect metamorphopsia, and PHP used the hyperacuity function for detection. Subjects were 39 patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM), 22 patients with idiopathic macular hole (M-hole), 19 patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and 51 healthy controls. Rasch analysis suggested the elimination of one question. The nine-item questionnaire score significantly correlated to the M-CHARTS score in ERM (r = 0.59; P = 0.0004) but not in M-hole and to the PHP result in AMD (r = -0.29; P = 0.04) but not in ERM. Eighty percent of ERM patients with greater horizontal M-CHARTS score subjectively perceived horizontal metamorphopsia more often. M-CHARTS showed better sensitivities than PHP in both ERM (89% vs. 42%) and AMD (74% vs. 68%) and better specificity (100% vs. 71%) in healthy controls. Rasch analysis indicated that the present form of the questionnaire is better suited for moderate to severe cases of metamorphopsia than for mild cases. The questionnaire appears to be a valid assessment of patient subjective perception of metamorphopsia and can be used to supplement the clinical measurements of metamorphopsia by M-CHARTS and PHP in patients with macular diseases.

  17. Design and fabrication of a glovebox for the Plasma Hearth Process radioactive bench-scale system

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

    Wahlquist, D.R.

    This paper presents some of the design considerations and fabrication techniques for building a glovebox for the Plasma Hearth Process (PHP) radioactive bench-scale system. The PHP radioactive bench-scale system uses a plasma torch to process a variety of radioactive materials into a final vitrified waste form. The processed waste will contain plutonium and trace amounts of other radioactive materials. The glovebox used in this system is located directly below the plasma chamber and is called the Hearth Handling Enclosure (HHE). The HHE is designed to maintain a confinement boundary between the processed waste and the operator. Operations that take placemore » inside the HHE include raising and lowering the hearth using a hydraulic lift table, transporting the hearth within the HHE using an overhead monorail and hoist system, sampling and disassembly of the processed waste and hearth, weighing the hearth, rebuilding a hearth, and sampling HEPA filters. The PHP radioactive bench-scale system is located at the TREAT facility at Argonne National Laboratory-West in Idaho Falls, Idaho.« less

  18. A helium based pulsating heat pipe for superconducting magnets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fonseca, Luis Diego; Miller, Franklin; Pfotenhauer, John

    2014-01-01

    This study was inspired to investigate an alternative cooling system using a helium-based pulsating heat pipes (PHP), for low temperature superconducting magnets. In addition, the same approach can be used for exploring other low temperature applications. The advantages of PHP for transferring heat and smoothing temperature profiles in various room temperature applications have been explored for the past 20 years. An experimental apparatus has been designed, fabricated and operated and is primarily composed of an evaporator and a condenser; in which both are thermally connected by a closed loop capillary tubing. The main goal is to measure the heat transfer properties of this device using helium as the working fluid. The evaporator end of the PHP is comprised of a copper winding in which heat loads up to 10 watts are generated, while the condenser is isothermal and can reach 4.2 K via a two stage Sumitomo RDK408A2 GM cryocooler. Various experimental design features are highlighted. Additionally, performance results in the form of heat transfer and temperature characteristics are provided as a function of average condenser temperature, PHP fill ratio, and evaporator heat load. Results are summarized in the form of a dimensionless correlation and compared to room temperature systems. Implications for superconducting magnet stability are highlighted.

  19. Identification of phase I and II metabolites of the new designer drug α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) in human urine by liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS).

    PubMed

    Paul, Michael; Bleicher, Sergej; Guber, Susanne; Ippisch, Josef; Polettini, Aldo; Schultis, Wolfgang

    2015-11-01

    Pyrrolidinophenones represent one emerging class of newly encountered drugs of abuse, also known as 'new psychoactive substances', with stimulating psychoactive effects. In this work, we report on the detection of the new designer drug α-pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) and its phase I and II metabolites in a human urine sample of a drug abuser. Determination and structural elucidation of these metabolites have been achieved by liquid chromatography electrospray ionisation quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS). By tentative identification, the exact and approximate structures of 19 phase I metabolites and nine phase II glucuronides were elucidated. Major metabolic pathways revealed the reduction of the ß-keto moieties to their corresponding alcohols, didesalkylation of the pyrrolidine ring, hydroxylation and oxidation of the aliphatic side chain leading to n-hydroxy, aldehyde and carboxylate metabolites, and oxidation of the pyrrolidine ring to its lactam followed by ring cleavage and additional hydroxylation, reduction and oxidation steps and combinations thereof. The most abundant phase II metabolites were glucuronidated ß-keto-reduced alcohols. Besides the great number of metabolites detected in this sample, α-PHP is still one of the most abundant ions together with its ß-keto-reduced alcoholic dihydro metabolite. Monitoring of these metabolites in clinical and forensic toxicology may unambiguously prove the abuse of the new designer drug α-PHP. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. In vitro activity of ceftazidime/avibactam against Gram-negative pathogens isolated from pneumonia in hospitalised patients, including ventilated patients.

    PubMed

    Flamm, Robert K; Nichols, Wright W; Sader, Helio S; Farrell, David J; Jones, Ronald N

    2016-03-01

    The activities of the novel β-lactam/non-β-lactam β-lactamase inhibitor combination ceftazidime/avibactam and comparators were evaluated against isolates from pneumonia in hospitalised patients including ventilated patients (PHP, pneumonia not designated as VABP; VABP, pneumonia in ventilated patients). Isolates were from the European-Mediterranean region (EuM), China and the USA collected in the SENTRY Antimicrobial Surveillance Program between 2009 and 2011 inclusive. A total of 2393 organisms from PHP were from the EuM, 888 from China and 3213 from the USA; from VABP patients there were 918, 97 and 692 organisms collected, respectively. Among Enterobacteriaceae from PHP, ceftazidime/avibactam MIC90 values against Escherichia coli ranged from 0.25-0.5mg/L and Klebsiella spp. MIC90 values were 0.5mg/L in each region. Among VABP isolates, MIC90 values for ceftazidime/avibactam against E. coli were 0.25mg/L; for Klebsiella spp. from VABP patients, MIC90 values were similar to those obtained against PHP isolates. The MIC of ceftazidime/avibactam was ≤8mg/L against 92-96% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from PHP patients. Isolates of P. aeruginosa from VABP patients were of lower susceptibility to all antibacterial agents (e.g. depending on region, meropenem susceptibilities were 51.2-69.4% in contrast to 68.3-76.7% among PHP patients). However, ceftazidime/avibactam inhibited 79.2-95.4% of VABP isolates at an MIC of ≤8mg/L. Acinetobacter spp. were resistant to many agents and only rates of susceptibility to colistin were >90% across all regions both for PHP and VABP isolates. Ceftazidime/avibactam was generally active against a high proportion of isolates resistant to ceftazidime from PHP and VAPB patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. and the International Society of Chemotherapy. All rights reserved.

  1. Experimental investigation on a pulsating heat pipe with hydrogen

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deng, H. R.; Liu, Y. M.; Ma, R. F.; Han, D. Y.; Gan, Z. H.; Pfotenhauer, J. M.

    2015-12-01

    The pulsating heat pipe (PHP) has been increasingly studied in cryogenic application, for its high transfer coefficient and quick response. Compared with Nb3Sn and NbTi, MgB2 whose critical transformation temperature is 39 K, is expected to replace some high-temperature superconducting materials at 25 K. In order to cool MgB2, this paper designs a Hydrogen Pulsating Heat Pipe, which allows a study of applied heat, filling ratio, turn number, inclination angle and length of adiabatic section on the thermal performance of the PHP. The thermal performance of the hydrogen PHP is investigated for filling ratios of 35%, 51%, 70% at different heat inputs, and provides information regarding the starting process is received at three filling ratios.

  2. AAV-PHP.B-Mediated Global-Scale Expression in the Mouse Nervous System Enables GBA1 Gene Therapy for Wide Protection from Synucleinopathy.

    PubMed

    Morabito, Giuseppe; Giannelli, Serena G; Ordazzo, Gabriele; Bido, Simone; Castoldi, Valerio; Indrigo, Marzia; Cabassi, Tommaso; Cattaneo, Stefano; Luoni, Mirko; Cancellieri, Cinzia; Sessa, Alessandro; Bacigaluppi, Marco; Taverna, Stefano; Leocani, Letizia; Lanciego, José L; Broccoli, Vania

    2017-12-06

    The lack of technology for direct global-scale targeting of the adult mouse nervous system has hindered research on brain processing and dysfunctions. Currently, gene transfer is normally achieved by intraparenchymal viral injections, but these injections target a restricted brain area. Herein, we demonstrated that intravenous delivery of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.B viral particles permeated and diffused throughout the neural parenchyma, targeting both the central and the peripheral nervous system in a global pattern. We then established multiple procedures of viral transduction to control gene expression or inactivate gene function exclusively in the adult nervous system and assessed the underlying behavioral effects. Building on these results, we established an effective gene therapy strategy to counteract the widespread accumulation of α-synuclein deposits throughout the forebrain in a mouse model of synucleinopathy. Transduction of A53T-SCNA transgenic mice with AAV-PHP.B-GBA1 restored physiological levels of the enzyme, reduced α-synuclein pathology, and produced significant behavioral recovery. Finally, we provided evidence that AAV-PHP.B brain penetration does not lead to evident dysfunctions in blood-brain barrier integrity or permeability. Altogether, the AAV-PHP.B viral platform enables non-invasive, widespread, and long-lasting global neural expression of therapeutic genes, such as GBA1, providing an invaluable approach to treat neurodegenerative diseases with diffuse brain pathology such as synucleinopathies. Copyright © 2017 The American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Tripeptide amide L-pyroglutamyl-histidyl-L-prolineamide (L-PHP-thyrotropin-releasing hormone, TRH) promotes insulin-producing cell proliferation.

    PubMed

    Luo, LuGuang; Luo, John Z Q; Jackson, Ivor

    2013-02-01

    A very small tripeptide amide L-pyroglutamyl-L-histidyl-L-prolineamide (L-PHP, Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone, TRH), was first identified in the brain hypothalamus area. Further studies found that L-PHP was expressed in pancreas. The biological role of pancreatic L-PHP is still not clear. Growing evidence indicates that L-PHP expression in the pancreas may play a pivotal role for pancreatic development in the early prenatal period. However, the role of L-PHP in adult pancreas still needs to be explored. L-PHP activation of pancreatic β cell Ca2+ flow and stimulation of β-cell insulin synthesis and release suggest that L-PHP involved in glucose metabolism may directly act on the β cell separate from any effects via the central nervous system (CNS). Knockout L-PHP animal models have shown that loss of L-PHP expression causes hyperglycemia, which cannot be reversed by administration of thyroid hormone, suggesting that the absence of L-PHP itself is the cause. L-PHP receptor type-1 has been identified in pancreas which provides a possibility for L-PHP autocrine and paracrine regulation in pancreatic function. During pancreatic damage in adult pancreas, L-PHP may protect beta cell from apoptosis and initiate its regeneration through signal pathways of growth hormone in β cells. L-PHP has recently been discovered to affect a broad array of gene expression in the pancreas including growth factor genes. Signal pathways linked between L-PHP and EGF receptor phosphorylation suggest that L-PHP may be an important factor for adult β-cell regeneration, which could involve adult stem cell differentiation. These effects suggest that L-PHP may benefit pancreatic β cells and diabetic therapy in clinic.

  4. Clinical characterization and molecular classification of 12 Korean patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism and pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Cho, S Y; Yoon, Y A; Ki, C-S; Huh, H J; Yoo, H-W; Lee, B H; Kim, G-H; Yoo, J-H; Kim, S-Y; Kim, S J; Sohn, Y B; Park, S W; Huh, R; Chang, M S; Lee, J; Kwun, Y; Maeng, S H; Jin, D-K

    2013-10-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is defined as resistance toward parathyroid hormones. PHP and pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PPHP) are rare disorders resulting from genetic and epigenetic aberrations within or upstream of the GNAS locus. This study investigated the clinical characteristics and performed a molecular analysis of PHP and PPHP. A total of 12 patients with (P)PHP from 11 unrelated families (4 with PHP-Ia, 6 with PHP-Ib, and 2 with PPHP) were characterized using both clinical and molecular methods. Clinical features included the presenting symptoms, Albright hereditary osteodystrophy features, and resistance to hormones. Comprehensive analysis of the GNAS and STX16 loci was undertaken to investigate the molecular defects underlying (P)PHP. All PHP-Ib patients displayed hypocalcemic symptoms. All PHP-Ia patients showed resistance toward TSH, in addition to PTH. In most patients with PHP, when the diagnosis of PHP was first established, hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia were associated with a significant increase in serum PTH levels. One patient with PHP-Ia was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency and showed a good response to human recombinant growth hormone therapy. 6 patients with PHP-Ia and PPHP showed 5 different mutations in the GNAS gene. 5 patients with PHP-Ib displayed a loss of differentially methylated region (DMR) imprints of the maternal GNAS. One PHP-Ib patient showed a de novo microdeletion in STX16 and a loss of methylation of exon A/B on the maternal allele. No patients revealed paternal disomy among 4 patients with PHP-Ib. Identification of the molecular causes of PHP and PPHP explains their distinctive clinical features and enables confirmation of the diagnosis and exact genetic counseling. © J. A. Barth Verlag in Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  5. Design and principle of operation of the HeartMate PHP (percutaneous heart pump).

    PubMed

    Van Mieghem, Nicolas M; Daemen, Joost; den Uil, Corstiaan; Dur, Onur; Joziasse, Linda; Maugenest, Anne-Marie; Fitzgerald, Keif; Parker, Chris; Muller, Paul; van Geuns, Robert-Jan

    2018-02-20

    The HeartMate PHP (percutaneous heart pump) is a second-generation transcatheter axial flow circulatory support system. The collapsible catheter pump is inserted through a 14 Fr sheath, deployed across the aortic valve expanding to 24 Fr and able to deliver up to 5 L/min blood flow at minimum haemolytic risk. As such, this device may be a valuable adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of challenging lesions in high-risk patients or treatment of cardiogenic shock. This technical report discusses: (i) the HeartMate PHP concept, (ii) the implantation technique, (iii) the haemodynamic performance in an in vitro cardiovascular flow testing set-up, and (iv) preliminary clinical experience. An update on the device, produced by St. Jude Medical/Abbott Laboratories, can be found in the Appendix.

  6. Modeling of pulsating heat pipes.

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

    Givler, Richard C.; Martinez, Mario J.

    This report summarizes the results of a computer model that describes the behavior of pulsating heat pipes (PHP). The purpose of the project was to develop a highly efficient (as compared to the heat transfer capability of solid copper) thermal groundplane (TGP) using silicon carbide (SiC) as the substrate material and water as the working fluid. The objective of this project is to develop a multi-physics model for this complex phenomenon to assist with an understanding of how PHPs operate and to be able to understand how various parameters (geometry, fill ratio, materials, working fluid, etc.) affect its performance. Themore » physical processes describing a PHP are highly coupled. Understanding its operation is further complicated by the non-equilibrium nature of the interplay between evaporation/condensation, bubble growth and collapse or coalescence, and the coupled response of the multiphase fluid dynamics among the different channels. A comprehensive theory of operation and design tools for PHPs is still an unrealized task. In the following we first analyze, in some detail, a simple model that has been proposed to describe PHP behavior. Although it includes fundamental features of a PHP, it also makes some assumptions to keep the model tractable. In an effort to improve on current modeling practice, we constructed a model for a PHP using some unique features available in FLOW-3D, version 9.2-3 (Flow Science, 2007). We believe that this flow modeling software retains more of the salient features of a PHP and thus, provides a closer representation of its behavior.« less

  7. Switching sliding mode force tracking control of piezoelectric-hydraulic pump-based friction element actuation systems for automotive transmissions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Gi-Woo; Wang, K. W.

    2009-08-01

    In this study, a nonlinear sliding-mode controller is designed for force tracking of a piezoelectric-hydraulic pump (PHP)-based actuation system, which is developed to replace the current electro-hydraulic actuation systems for automatic transmission (AT) friction elements, such as band brakes or clutches. By utilizing the PHP, one can eliminate the various hydraulic components (oil pump, regulating valve and control valve) in current ATs and achieve a simpler configuration with more efficient operation. With the derived governing equation of motion of the PHP-based actuation system integrated with the friction element (band brake), a switching control law is synthesized based on the sliding-mode theory. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed control law, its force tracking performance for the engagement of a friction element during an AT 1\\to 2 up-shift is examined experimentally. It is shown that one can successfully track the desired force trajectory for AT shift control with small tracking error. This study demonstrates the potential of the PHP as a new controllable actuation system for AT friction elements.

  8. Hertel 7 fracture of the humeral head. Can two different fixation systems (Diphos/PHP) lead to different outcomes? A retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Gumina, S; Baudi, P; Candela, V; Campochiaro, G

    2016-10-01

    To compare clinical outcomes and complication rates in the medium-to-long-term follow-up of Hertel 7 humeral head fractures treated with two different locking plates. A total of 52 patients with type 7 humeral head fracture (in accordance with Hertel classification) were enrolled retrospectively: 24 patients [4 male, 20 female; mean age (standard deviation [SD]): 68.9 (5.8) years] were treated with Diphos H plate (Group A) and 28 patients [6 male, 22 female; mean age (SD): 61.0 (7.5) years] with Proximal Humeral Plate (PHP; Group B). The mean follow-up periods were 25.6 and 18.9 months, respectively. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Constant score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score; X-ray evaluation was also performed and complications were recorded. The mean Constant score in the Diphos and PHP groups at follow-up were 75.6 (SD 13.4) and 78.9 (SD 12.8), respectively (p>0.05). The DASH score was similar in both groups (Diphos: 18.6, range 0-51.5; PHP: 16.8, range 0-47.8) (p>0.05). In our series, 9.6% of patients had complications; these included a case of aseptic non-union and a case of avascular necrosis of the humeral head in each group, and a secondary screw perforation in a patient treated with Diphos. In patients with Hertel 7 proximal humeral fractures, Diphos and PHP lead to similar satisfactory functional outcomes and are associated with low complication rates; this confirms that both are useful implants for the treatment of this pattern of fracture. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  9. SGDB: a database of synthetic genes re-designed for optimizing protein over-expression.

    PubMed

    Wu, Gang; Zheng, Yuanpu; Qureshi, Imran; Zin, Htar Thant; Beck, Tyler; Bulka, Blazej; Freeland, Stephen J

    2007-01-01

    Here we present the Synthetic Gene Database (SGDB): a relational database that houses sequences and associated experimental information on synthetic (artificially engineered) genes from all peer-reviewed studies published to date. At present, the database comprises information from more than 200 published experiments. This resource not only provides reference material to guide experimentalists in designing new genes that improve protein expression, but also offers a dataset for analysis by bioinformaticians who seek to test ideas regarding the underlying factors that influence gene expression. The SGDB was built under MySQL database management system. We also offer an XML schema for standardized data description of synthetic genes. Users can access the database at http://www.evolvingcode.net/codon/sgdb/index.php, or batch downloads all information through XML files. Moreover, users may visually compare the coding sequences of a synthetic gene and its natural counterpart with an integrated web tool at http://www.evolvingcode.net/codon/sgdb/aligner.php, and discuss questions, findings and related information on an associated e-forum at http://www.evolvingcode.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=27.

  10. Hepatic Progression-free and Overall Survival After Regional Therapy to the Liver for Metastatic Melanoma.

    PubMed

    Abbott, Andrea M; Doepker, Matthew P; Kim, Youngchul; Perez, Matthew C; Gandle, Cassandra; Thomas, Kerry L; Choi, Junsung; Shridhar, Ravi; Zager, Jonathan S

    2017-01-04

    Regional therapy for metastatic melanoma to the liver represents an alternative to systemic therapy. Hepatic progression-free survival (HPFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. A retrospective review of patients with liver metastases from cutaneous or uveal melanoma treated with yttrium-90 (Y90), chemoembolization (CE), or percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) was conducted. Thirty patients (6 Y90, 10 PHP, 12 CE, 1 PHP then Y90, 1 CE then PHP) were included. Multivariate analysis showed improved HPFS for PHP versus Y90 (P=0.004), PHP versus CE (P=0.02) but not for CE versus Y90. PFS was also significantly different: Y90 (54 d), CE (52 d), PHP (245 d), P=0.03. PHP treatment and lower tumor burden were significant predictors of prolonged PFS on multivariate analysis. Median OS from time of treatment was longest, but not significant, for PHP at 608 days versus Y90 (295 d) and CE (265 d), P=0.24. Only PHP treatment versus Y90 and lower tumor burden had improved OS on multivariate analysis (P=0.03, 0.03, respectively). HPFS and PFS were significantly prolonged in patients treated with PHP versus CE or Y90. Median OS in PHP patients was over double that seen in Y90 or CE patients but was significant only between PHP and Y90.

  11. Effects of Php Gene-Associated versus Induced Resistance to Tobacco Cyst Nematode in Flue-Cured Tobacco

    PubMed Central

    Johnson, Charles S.; Eisenback, Jon D.

    2009-01-01

    Effects of the systemic acquired resistance (SAR)-inducing compound acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) and the plant-growth promoting rhizobacterial mixture Bacillus subtilis A13 and B. amyloliquefaciens IN937a (GB99+GB122) were assessed on the reproduction of a tobacco cyst nematode (TCN- Globodera tabacum solanacearum) under greenhouse conditions. Two sets of two independent experiments were conducted, each involving soil or root sampling. Soil sample experiments included flue-cured tobacco cultivars with (Php+: NC71 and NC102) and without (Php-: K326 and K346) a gene (Php) suppressing TCN parasitism. Root sample experiments examined TCN root parasitism of NC71 and K326. Cultivars possessing the Php gene (Php+) were compared with Php- cultivars to assess the effects of resistance mediated via Php gene vs. induced resistance to TCN. GB99+GB122 consistently reduced nematode reproductive ratio on both Php+ and Php- cultivars, but similar effects of ASM across Php- cultivars were less consistent. In addition, ASM application resulted in leaf yellowing and reduced root weight. GB99+GB122 consistently reduced nematode development in roots of both Php+ and Php- cultivars, while similar effects of ASM were frequently less consistent. The results of this study indicate that GB99+GB122 consistently reduced TCN reproduction in all flue-cured tobacco cultivars tested, while the effects of ASM were only consistent in Php+ cultivars. Under most circumstances, GB99+GB122 suppressed nematode reproduction more consistently than ASM compared to the untreated control. PMID:22736824

  12. Clinical and genetic characteristics of Pseudohypoparathyroidism in the Chinese population.

    PubMed

    Chu, Xueying; Zhu, Yan; Wang, Ou; Nie, Min; Quan, Tingting; Xue, Yu; Wang, Wenbo; Jiang, Yan; Li, Mei; Xia, Weibo; Xing, Xiaoping

    2018-02-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is caused by mutations and epimutations in the GNAS locus, and characterized by the possibility of resistance to multiple hormones and Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy. PHP can be classified into the forms 1A/C, sporadic 1B and familial 1B. To obtain an overall view of the clinical and genetic characteristics of the Chinese PHP patient population. From 2000 to 2016, 120 patients were recruited and studied using Sanger sequencing, methylation-specific multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA) and combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA). Of these patients, 104 had positive molecular alterations indicative of certain forms of PHP and were included in data analysis. Clinical and laboratory features were compared between PHP1A/C and PHP1B patients. Ten PHP1A/C, 21 familial PHP1B and 73 sporadic PHP1B patients were identified. Four novel GNAS mutations were discovered in these patients, including c.1038+1G>T, c.530+2T>C, c.880_883delCAAG and c.311_312delAAG, insT. The most common symptoms in this series were recurrent tetany (89.4%) and epilepsy (47.1%). The prevalence of weight excess increased with age for PHP1B (10%-35%) and PHP1A/C (50%-75%). Intracranial calcification had a prevalence of 94.6% and correlated with seizures (r = .227, P = .029). Cataracts occurred in 56.2% PHP patients, and there was a trend towards longer disease duration in patients with cataracts (P = .051). Statistically significant differences (P < .05) were observed when comparing certain clinical characteristics between PHP1B and PHP1A/C patients, including age of onset (10 vs 7 year), short stature (21.3% vs 70%), rounded face (60.6% vs 100%), brachydactyly (25.5% vs 100%), ectopic ossification (1.1% vs 40%) and TSH resistance (44.6% vs 90%), respectively. This study is the largest single-centre series of PHP patients and summarizes the clinical and genetic features of the Chinese PHP population. While there was substantial clinical overlap between PHP1A/C and PHP1B, differences in disease progression were observed. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  13. Speed up of XML parsers with PHP language implementation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Georgiev, Bozhidar; Georgieva, Adriana

    2012-11-01

    In this paper, authors introduce PHP5's XML implementation and show how to read, parse, and write a short and uncomplicated XML file using Simple XML in a PHP environment. The possibilities for mutual work of PHP5 language and XML standard are described. The details of parsing process with Simple XML are also cleared. A practical project PHP-XML-MySQL presents the advantages of XML implementation in PHP modules. This approach allows comparatively simple search of XML hierarchical data by means of PHP software tools. The proposed project includes database, which can be extended with new data and new XML parsing functions.

  14. An update on the clinical and molecular characteristics of pseudohypoparathyroidism

    PubMed Central

    Levine, Michael A.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose of review To provide the reader with a review of contemporary literature describing the evolving understanding of the molecular pathobiology of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP). Recent findings The features of PHP type 1 reflect imprinting of the GNAS gene, which encodes the α subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein (Gαs) that couples heptahelical receptors to activation of adenylyl cyclase. Transcription of Gαs is biallelic in most cells, but is primarily from the maternal allele in some tissues (e.g. proximal renal tubules, thyroid, pituitary somatotropes, gonads). Patients with PHP 1a have heterozygous mutations within the exons of the maternal GNAS allele that encode Gαs, whereas patients with PHP 1b have methylation defects in the GNAS locus that reduce transcription of Gαs from the maternal allele. In both PHP 1a and PHP 1b, paternal imprinting of Gαs leads to resistance to parathyroid hormone and TSH. Although brachydactyly is characteristic of PHP 1a, it is sometimes present in patients with PHP 1b. Summary Molecular studies enable a distinction between PHP 1a and PHP 1b, with different mechanisms accounting for Gαs deficiency. Clinical overlap between these two forms of PHP type 1 is likely due to the variable levels of Gαs activity expressed in specific cell types. PMID:23076042

  15. PHP14 regulates hepatic stellate cells migration in liver fibrosis via mediating TGF-β1 signaling to PI3Kγ/AKT/Rac1 pathway.

    PubMed

    Xu, Anjian; Li, Yanmeng; Zhao, Wenshan; Hou, Fei; Li, Xiaojin; Sun, Lan; Chen, Wei; Yang, Aiting; Wu, Shanna; Zhang, Bei; Yao, Jingyi; Wang, Huan; Huang, Jian

    2018-02-01

    Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Migration of the activated HSCs to the site of injury is one of the key characteristics during the wound healing process. We have previously demonstrated that 14 kDa phosphohistidine phosphatase (PHP14) is involved in migration and lamellipodia formation of HSCs. However, the role of PHP14 in liver fibrosis remains unknown. In this study, we first assessed PHP14 expression and distribution in liver fibrotic tissues using western blot, immunohistochemistry, and double immunofluorescence staining. Next, we investigated the role of PHP14 in liver fibrosis and, more specifically, the migration of HSCs by Transwell assay and 3D collagen matrices assay. Finally, we explored the possible molecular mechanisms of the effects of PHP14 on these processes. Our results show that the PHP14 expression is up-regulated in fibrotic liver and mainly in HSCs. Importantly, TGF-β1 can induce PHP14 expression in HSCs accompanied with the activation of HSCs. Consistent with the previous study, PHP14 promotes HSCs migration, especially, promotes 3D floating collagen matrices contraction but inhibits stressed-released matrices contraction. Mechanistically, the PI3Kγ/AKT/Rac1 pathway is involved in migration regulated by PHP14. Moreover, PHP14 specifically mediates the TGF-β1 signaling to PI3Kγ/AKT pathway and regulates HSC migration, and thus participates in liver fibrosis. Our study identified the role of PHP14 in liver fibrosis, particularly HSC migration, and suggested a novel mediator of transducting TGF-β1 signaling to PI3Kγ/AKT/Rac1 pathway. PHP14 is up-regulated in fibrotic liver and activated hepatic stellate cells. The expression of PHP14 is induced by TGF-β1. The migration of hepatic stellate cells is regulated by PHP14. PHP14 is a mediator of TGF-β1 signaling to PI3Kγ/AKT/Rac1 pathway in hepatic stellate cells.

  16. Results of a Randomized Controlled Multicenter Phase III Trial of Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion Compared with Best Available Care for Patients with Melanoma Liver Metastases.

    PubMed

    Hughes, Marybeth S; Zager, Jonathan; Faries, Mark; Alexander, H Richard; Royal, Richard E; Wood, Bradford; Choi, Junsung; McCluskey, Kevin; Whitman, Eric; Agarwala, Sanjiv; Siskin, Gary; Nutting, Charles; Toomey, Mary Ann; Webb, Carole; Beresnev, Tatiana; Pingpank, James F

    2016-04-01

    There is no consensus for the treatment of melanoma metastatic to the liver. Percutaneous hepatic perfusion with melphalan (PHP-Mel) is a method of delivering regional chemotherapy selectively to the liver. In this study, we report the results of a multicenter, randomized controlled trial comparing PHP-Mel with best alternative care (BAC) for patients with ocular or cutaneous melanoma metastatic to the liver. A total of 93 patients were randomized to PHP-Mel (n = 44) or BAC (n = 49). On the PHP-Mel arm, melphalan was delivered via the hepatic artery, and the hepatic effluent captured and filtered extracorporeally prior to return to the systemic circulation via a venovenous bypass circuit. PHP-Mel was repeatable every 4-8 weeks. The primary endpoint was hepatic progression-free survival (hPFS), and secondary endpoints included overall PFS (oPFS), overall survival (OS), hepatic objective response (hOR), and safety. hPFS was 7.0 months for PHP-Mel and 1.6 months for BAC (p < 0.0001), while oPFS was 5.4 months for PHP-Mel and 1.6 months for BAC (p < 0.0001). Median OS was not significantly different (PHP-Mel 10.6 months vs. BAC 10.0 months), likely due to crossover to PHP-Mel treatment (57.1 %) from the BAC arm, and the hOR was 36.4 % for PHP-Mel and 2.0 % for BAC (p < 0.001). The majority of adverse events were related to bone marrow suppression. Four deaths were attributed to PHP-Mel, three in the primary PHP-Mel group, and one post-crossover to PHP-Mel from BAC. This randomized, phase III study demonstrated the efficacy of the PHP-Mel procedure. hPFS, oPFS, and hOR were significantly improved with PHP-Mel. PHP with melphalan should provide a new treatment option for unresectable metastatic melanoma in the liver.

  17. Acetylcholine content and viability of cholinergic neurons are influenced by the activity of protein histidine phosphatase

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background The first mammalian protein histidine phosphatase (PHP) was discovered in the late 90s of the last century. One of the known substrates of PHP is ATP-citrate lyase (ACL), which is responsible - amongst other functions - for providing acetyl-CoA for acetylcholine synthesis in neuronal tissues. It has been shown in previous studies that PHP downregulates the activity of ACL by dephosphorylation. According to this our present work focused on the influence of PHP activity on the acetylcholine level in cholinergic neurons. Results The amount of PHP in SN56 cholinergic neuroblastoma cells was increased after overexpression of PHP by using pIRES2-AcGFP1-PHP as a vector. We demonstrated that PHP overexpression reduced the acetylcholine level and induced cell death. The acetylcholine content of SN56 cells was measured by fast liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Overexpression of the inactive H53A-PHP mutant also induced cell damage, but in a significantly reduced manner. However, this overexpression of the inactive PHP mutant did not change the acetylcholine content of SN56 cells significantly. In contrast, PHP downregulation, performed by RNAi-technique, did not induce cell death, but significantly increased the acetylcholine content in SN56 cells. Conclusions We could show for the first time that PHP downregulation increased the acetylcholine level in SN56 cells. This might be a potential therapeutic strategy for diseases involving cholinergic deficits like Alzheimer's disease. PMID:22436051

  18. Food Safety Impacts from Post-Harvest Processing Procedures of Molluscan Shellfish.

    PubMed

    Baker, George L

    2016-04-18

    Post-harvest Processing (PHP) methods are viable food processing methods employed to reduce human pathogens in molluscan shellfish that would normally be consumed raw, such as raw oysters on the half-shell. Efficacy of human pathogen reduction associated with PHP varies with respect to time, temperature, salinity, pressure, and process exposure. Regulatory requirements and PHP molluscan shellfish quality implications are major considerations for PHP usage. Food safety impacts associated with PHP of molluscan shellfish vary in their efficacy and may have synergistic outcomes when combined. Further research for many PHP methods are necessary and emerging PHP methods that result in minimal quality loss and effective human pathogen reduction should be explored.

  19. Rational Design of Porous Conjugated Polymers and Roles of Residual Palladium for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production

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

    Li, Lianwei; Cai, Zhengxu; Wu, Qinghe

    Developing high efficient photocatalyts for splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen is one of the biggest chemical challenges in solar energy utilization. In this paper, we report our effort in rationally designing conjugated porous polymer (CPP) photocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen production (PHP) from water. A series of CPP photocatalysts with different chromophore components and bipyridyl (bpy) contents were synthesized and found to evolve hydrogen photocatalytically from water. The PHP activity of bpy-containing CPPs can be greatly enhanced due to the improved light absorption, better wettability, higher crystallinity and the improved charge separation process. Moreover, the CPP photocatalyst made of strongmore » and fully conjugated donor chromo-phore DBD shows the highest hydrogen production rate ~ 33 μmol/h. The results indicate that copolymerization between a strong donor and weak acceptor is a useful strategy for the devel-opment of efficient photocatalysts. This study clarifies that the residual palladium in the CPP networks plays a key role for the catalytic performance. The PHP activity of CPP photocatalyst can be further enhanced to 164 μmol/h with an apparent quantum yield of 1.8% at 350 nm by loading 2 wt% of extra platinum cocat-alyst.« less

  20. Pulmonary haptoglobin (pHp) is part of the surfactant system in the human lung.

    PubMed

    Abdullah, Mahdi; Goldmann, Torsten

    2012-11-20

    Since the existence of pHp was demonstrated, it has been shown that this molecule and its receptor CD163 are regulated by different stimuli. Furthermore, a comparably fast secretion of pHp was described as well as the immuno-stimulatory effects. The intention of this study was to elucidate the role of pHp in the human lungs further. Here we show, by means of confocal microscopy and immune-electron-microscopy, a clear co-localization of pHp with surfactant protein-B in lamellar bodies of alveolar epithelial cells type II. These results are underlined by immunohistochemical stainings in differently fixed human lung tissues, which show pHp in vesicular and released form. The images of the released form resemble the intended position of surfactant in the human alveolus. pHp is secreted by Alveolar epithelial cells type II as previously shown. Moreover, pHp is co-localized with Surfactant protein-B. We conclude that the presented data shows that pHp is a native part of the surfactant system in the human lung. http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/2563584738239912.

  1. Temporal and spatial variations in kinetics of alkaline phosphatase in sediments of a shallow Chinese eutrophic lake (Lake Donghu).

    PubMed

    Yiyong, Zhou; Jianqiu, Li; Min, Zhang

    2002-04-01

    Monthly sediment and interstitial water samples were collected in a shallow Chinese freshwater lake (Lake Donghu) from three areas to determine if alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) plays an important role, in phosphorus cycling in sediment. The seasonal variability in the kinetics of APA and other relevant parameters were investigated from 1995-1996. The phosphatase hydrolyzable phosphorus (PHP) fluctuated seasonally in interstitial water, peaking in the spring. A synchronous pattern was observed in chlorophyll a contents in surface water in general. The orthophosphate (o-P) concentrations in the interstitial water increased during the spring. An expected negative relationship between PHP and Vmax of APA is not evident in interstitial water. The most striking feature of the two variables is their co-occurring, which can be explained in terms of an induction mechanism. It is argued that phosphatase activity mainly contributes to the driving force of o-P regeneration from PHP in interstitial water, supporting the development of phytoplankton biomass in spring. The Vmax values in sediment increased during the summer, in conjunction with lower Km values in interstitial water that suggest a higher affinity for the substrate. The accumulation of organic matter in the sediment could be traced back to the breakdown of the algal spring bloom, which may stimulate APA with higher kinetic efficiency, by a combination of the higher Vmax in sediments plus lower Km values in interstitial water, in summer. In summary, a focus on phosphatase and its substrate in annual scale may provide a useful framework for the development of novel P cycling, possible explanations for the absence of a clear relationship between PHP and APA were PHP released from the sediment which induced APA, and the presence of kinetically higher APA both in sediment and interstitial water which permitted summer mineralization of organic matter derived from the spring bloom to occur. The study highlighted the need for distinguishing functionally distinct extracellular enzymes between the sediment and interstitial water of lakes.

  2. A System for Web-based Access to the HSOS Database

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, G.

    Huairou Solar Observing Station's (HSOS) magnetogram and dopplergram are world-class instruments. Access to their data has opened to the world. Web-based access to the data will provide a powerful, convenient tool for data searching and solar physics. It is necessary that our data be provided to users via the Web when it is opened to the world. In this presentation, the author describes general design and programming construction of the system. The system will be generated by PHP and MySQL. The author also introduces basic feature of PHP and MySQL.

  3. Bone Status Among Patients With Nonsurgical Hypoparathyroidism, Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcaemia, and Pseudohypoparathyroidism: A Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Underbjerg, Line; Malmstroem, Sofie; Sikjaer, Tanja; Rejnmark, Lars

    2018-03-01

    Nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism (Ns-HypoPT) and pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) are both rare diseases, characterized by hypocalcemia. In Ns-HypoPT, PTH levels are low, whereas patients with PHP often have very high levels due to receptor-insensitivity to PTH (PTH-resistance). Accordingly, we hypothesized that indices of bone turnover and bone mineralization/architecture are similar in Ns-HypoPT and PHP despite marked differences in PTH levels. We studied 62 patients with Ns-HypoPT and 31 with PHP as well as a group of age- and sex-matched healthy controls. We found a significantly higher areal BMD (aBMD) by DXA among patients with Ns-HypoPT, both compared with PHP and the background population. Compared with Ns-HypoPT, PHP patients had significantly lower total and trabecular volumetric BMD (vBMD) assessed by quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scans at the spine and hip. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HRpQCT) scans showed a lower trabecular area and vBMD as well as a lower trabecular number at the tibia in PHP compared to Ns-HypoPT and matched controls. In PHP, PTH levels correlated with levels of markers of bone formation (osteocalcin, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, P1NP), and bone resorption (CTx). In adult males, levels of bone markers were significantly higher in PHP compared with Ns-HypoPT. Levels of procalcitonin and calcitonin were significantly higher in PHP compared with Ns-HypoPT. In conclusion, indices of bone turnover, density, and microarchitecture differ between patients with Ns-HypoPT and PHP. Our data suggest that patients with PHP do not have a complete skeletal resistance to PTH and that the effects of chronically high PTH levels in PHP are mostly confined to the trabecular tissue. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

  4. Testing theoretical relationships: factors influencing positive health practices (PHP) in Filipino college students.

    PubMed

    Ayres, Cynthia; Mahat, Ganga; Atkins, Robert

    2013-01-01

    To examine variables influencing the positive health practices (PHP) of Filipino college students to gain a better understanding of health practices in this ethnic/racial group. Cross-sectional study tested theoretical relationships postulated among (a) PHP, (b) social support (SS), (c) optimism, and (d) acculturation. A sample of Filipino college students (N = 226) aged 18 to 21 was obtained in June 2009. Participants completed 4 instruments. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 16.0. Positive correlations were found between PHP and SS (r = .39, p = .01) and optimism and PHP (r = .36, p = .01). No correlation was found between PHP and acculturation. Optimism and SS predicted performance of PHP (R (2) = .18, F[2, 221] = 24.927, p < .001). A difference was found in acculturation levels between participants who grew up in the United States (t[223] = 4.5, p < .001) and those who did not. Findings help health practitioners and educators to better understand the underlying factors that influence PHP in this population.

  5. Pulmonary haptoglobin (pHp) is part of the surfactant system in the human lung

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Abstract Since the existence of pHp was demonstrated, it has been shown that this molecule and its receptor CD163 are regulated by different stimuli. Furthermore, a comparably fast secretion of pHp was described as well as the immuno-stimulatory effects. The intention of this study was to elucidate the role of pHp in the human lungs further. Here we show, by means of confocal microscopy and immune-electron-microscopy, a clear co-localization of pHp with Surfactant protein-B in lamellar bodies of Alveolar Epithelial Cells Type II. These results are underlined by immunohistochemical stainings in differently fixed human lung tissues, which show pHp in vesicular and released form. The images of the released form resemble the intended position of surfactant in the human alveolus. pHp is secreted by Alveolar epithelial cells type II as previously shown. Moreover, pHp is co-localized with Surfactant protein-B. We conclude that the presented data shows that pHp is a native part of the surfactant system in the human lung. Virtual slides http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/2563584738239912. PMID:23164167

  6. Low back pain and disability in individuals with plantar heel pain.

    PubMed

    McClinton, Shane; Weber, Carolyn F; Heiderscheit, Bryan

    2018-03-01

    Lack of response to plantar heel pain (PHP) treatment may be related to unmanaged low back pain (LBP) and low back dysfunction, but a relationship between LBP and PHP has not been established. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the prevalence of LBP among individuals with and without PHP and to assess the association between low back disability and foot/ankle function. A cross-sectional study compared the prevalence and likelihood of LBP in individuals with (n=27) and without (n=27) PHP matched to age, sex, BMI, foot posture, and foot mobility. In individuals with PHP, correlations were examined between foot/ankle function using the foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM), low back disability using the Oswestry low back disability questionnaire (OSW), duration of PHP symptoms, body mass index (BMI), and age. A greater percentage of individuals with PHP had LBP (74% versus 37% of controls, odds ratio=5.2, P=0.009) and higher levels of low back disability (17% higher OSW score than controls, P<0.001). In individuals with PHP, FAAM scores were correlated with OSW scores (ρ=-0.463, P=0.015), but not with duration of PHP symptoms, BMI, or age (P>0.150). Individuals with PHP had a greater prevalence of LBP and higher low back disability that was correlated to reduced foot and ankle function. Treatment to address both local and proximal impairments, including impairments related to LBP, may be warranted to improve the management of PHP. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. A structural role for the PHP domain in E. coli DNA polymerase III.

    PubMed

    Barros, Tiago; Guenther, Joel; Kelch, Brian; Anaya, Jordan; Prabhakar, Arjun; O'Donnell, Mike; Kuriyan, John; Lamers, Meindert H

    2013-05-14

    In addition to the core catalytic machinery, bacterial replicative DNA polymerases contain a Polymerase and Histidinol Phosphatase (PHP) domain whose function is not entirely understood. The PHP domains of some bacterial replicases are active metal-dependent nucleases that may play a role in proofreading. In E. coli DNA polymerase III, however, the PHP domain has lost several metal-coordinating residues and is likely to be catalytically inactive. Genomic searches show that the loss of metal-coordinating residues in polymerase PHP domains is likely to have coevolved with the presence of a separate proofreading exonuclease that works with the polymerase. Although the E. coli Pol III PHP domain has lost metal-coordinating residues, the structure of the domain has been conserved to a remarkable degree when compared to that of metal-binding PHP domains. This is demonstrated by our ability to restore metal binding with only three point mutations, as confirmed by the metal-bound crystal structure of this mutant determined at 2.9 Å resolution. We also show that Pol III, a large multi-domain protein, unfolds cooperatively and that mutations in the degenerate metal-binding site of the PHP domain decrease the overall stability of Pol III and reduce its activity. While the presence of a PHP domain in replicative bacterial polymerases is strictly conserved, its ability to coordinate metals and to perform proofreading exonuclease activity is not, suggesting additional non-enzymatic roles for the domain. Our results show that the PHP domain is a major structural element in Pol III and its integrity modulates both the stability and activity of the polymerase.

  8. The association between plantar heel pain and running surfaces in competitive long-distance male runners.

    PubMed

    Hotta, Takayuki; Nishiguchi, Shu; Fukutani, Naoto; Tashiro, Yuto; Adachi, Daiki; Morino, Saori; Aoyama, Tomoki

    2016-09-01

    Plantar heel pain (PHP) is a common complaint, and is most often caused by plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is reported to be associated with running surfaces, however the association between PHP and running surfaces has not previously been revealed in an epidemiological investigation. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine the association between PHP and running surfaces. This is a cross-sectional study. A total of 347 competitive long-distance male runners participated in this study. The participants completed an original questionnaire, which included items assessing demographic characteristics, training characteristics focusing on running surfaces (soft surface, hard surface and tartan), and the prevalence of PHP during the previous 12 months. A logistic regression analysis was used to identify the effect of running surfaces on PHP. We found that 21.9% of participants had experienced PHP during the previous 12 months. The multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for demographic and training characteristics, revealed that running on tartan was associated with PHP (odds ratio 2.82, 95% confidence interval 1.42 to 5.61; P<0.01). Our findings suggest that running more than 25% on tartan is associated with PHP in competitive long-distance male runners.

  9. High-fidelity DNA replication in Mycobacterium tuberculosis relies on a trinuclear zinc center.

    PubMed

    Baños-Mateos, Soledad; van Roon, Anne-Marie M; Lang, Ulla F; Maslen, Sarah L; Skehel, J Mark; Lamers, Meindert H

    2017-10-11

    High-fidelity DNA replication depends on a proofreading 3'-5' exonuclease that is associated with the replicative DNA polymerase. The replicative DNA polymerase DnaE1 from the major pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) uses its intrinsic PHP-exonuclease that is distinct from the canonical DEDD exonucleases found in the Escherichia coli and eukaryotic replisomes. The mechanism of the PHP-exonuclease is not known. Here, we present the crystal structure of the Mtb DnaE1 polymerase. The PHP-exonuclease has a trinuclear zinc center, coordinated by nine conserved residues. Cryo-EM analysis reveals the entry path of the primer strand in the PHP-exonuclease active site. Furthermore, the PHP-exonuclease shows a striking similarity to E. coli endonuclease IV, which provides clues regarding the mechanism of action. Altogether, this work provides important insights into the PHP-exonuclease and reveals unique properties that make it an attractive target for novel anti-mycobacterial drugs.The polymerase and histidinol phosphatase (PHP) domain in the DNA polymerase DnaE1 is essential for mycobacterial high-fidelity DNA replication. Here, the authors determine the DnaE1 crystal structure, which reveals the PHP-exonuclease mechanism that can be exploited for antibiotic development.

  10. Pretreating wheat straw by the concentrated phosphoric acid plus hydrogen peroxide (PHP): Investigations on pretreatment conditions and structure changes.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qing; Hu, Jinguang; Shen, Fei; Mei, Zili; Yang, Gang; Zhang, Yanzong; Hu, Yaodong; Zhang, Jing; Deng, Shihuai

    2016-01-01

    Wheat straw was pretreated by PHP (the concentrated H3PO4 plus H2O2) to clarify effects of temperature, time and H3PO4 proportion on hemicellulose removal, delignification, cellulose recovery and enzymatic digestibility. Overall, hemicellulose removal was intensified by PHP comparing to the concentrated H3PO4. Moreover, efficient delignification specially happened in PHP pretreatment. Hemicellulose removal and delignification by PHP positively responded to temperature and time. Increasing H3PO4 proportion in PHP can promote hemicellulose removal, however, decrease the delignification. Maximum hemicellulose removal and delignification were achieved at 100% and 83.7% by PHP. Enzymatic digestibility of PHP-pretreated wheat straw was greatly improved by increasing temperature, time and H3PO4 proportion, and complete hydrolysis can be achieved consequently. As temperature of 30-40°C, time of 2.0 h and H3PO4 proportion of 60% were employed, more than 92% cellulose was retained in the pretreated wheat straw, and 29.1-32.6g glucose can be harvested from 100g wheat straw. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Eating behaviors in obese children with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Wang, Lulu; Shoemaker, Ashley H

    2014-01-01

    Children with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a (PHP-1a) develop early-onset obesity. These children have decreased resting energy expenditure but it is unknown if hyperphagia contributes to their obesity. We conducted a survey assessment of patients 2 to 12 years old with PHP-1a and matched controls using the Hyperphagia Questionnaire (HQ) and Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ). Results of the PHP-1a group were also compared with an obese control group and normal weight sibling group. We enrolled 10 patients with PHP-1a and 9 matched controls. There was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a group and matched controls for total HQ score (p = 0.72), Behavior (p = 0.91), Drive (p = 0.48) or Severity (p = 0.73) subset scores. There was also no difference between the PHP-1a group and matched controls on the CEBQ. In a secondary analysis, the PHP-1a group was compared with obese controls (n = 30) and normal weight siblings (n = 6). Caregivers reported an increased interest in food before age 2 years in 6 of 10 PHP-1a patients (60%), 9 of 30 obese controls (30%) and none of the siblings (p = 0.04). The sibling group had a significantly lower Positive Eating Behavior score than the PHP-1a group (2.6 [2.4, 2.9] vs. 3.5 [3.1, 4.0], p < 0.01) and obese controls (2.6 [2.4, 2.9] vs. 3.4 [2.6, 3.8], p = 0.04), but there was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a and obese controls (p = 0.35). The sibling group had a lower Desire to Drink score than both the PHP-1a group (1.8 [1.6, 2.7] vs. 4.3 [3.3, 5.0], p < 0.01) and obese controls (1.8 [1.6, 2.7] vs. 3.3 [3.0, 4.0], p < 0.01) but there was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a and obese control Desire to Drink scores (p = 0.11). Patients with PHP-1a demonstrate hyperphagic symptoms similar to matched obese controls.

  12. Eating behaviors in obese children with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a: a cross-sectional study

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Children with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a (PHP-1a) develop early-onset obesity. These children have decreased resting energy expenditure but it is unknown if hyperphagia contributes to their obesity. Methods We conducted a survey assessment of patients 2 to 12 years old with PHP-1a and matched controls using the Hyperphagia Questionnaire (HQ) and Children’s Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ). Results of the PHP-1a group were also compared with an obese control group and normal weight sibling group. Results We enrolled 10 patients with PHP-1a and 9 matched controls. There was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a group and matched controls for total HQ score (p = 0.72), Behavior (p = 0.91), Drive (p = 0.48) or Severity (p = 0.73) subset scores. There was also no difference between the PHP-1a group and matched controls on the CEBQ. In a secondary analysis, the PHP-1a group was compared with obese controls (n = 30) and normal weight siblings (n = 6). Caregivers reported an increased interest in food before age 2 years in 6 of 10 PHP-1a patients (60%), 9 of 30 obese controls (30%) and none of the siblings (p = 0.04). The sibling group had a significantly lower Positive Eating Behavior score than the PHP-1a group (2.6 [2.4, 2.9] vs. 3.5 [3.1, 4.0], p < 0.01) and obese controls (2.6 [2.4, 2.9] vs. 3.4 [2.6, 3.8], p = 0.04), but there was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a and obese controls (p = 0.35). The sibling group had a lower Desire to Drink score than both the PHP-1a group (1.8 [1.6, 2.7] vs. 4.3 [3.3, 5.0], p < 0.01) and obese controls (1.8 [1.6, 2.7] vs. 3.3 [3.0, 4.0], p < 0.01) but there was not a significant difference between the PHP-1a and obese control Desire to Drink scores (p = 0.11). Conclusions Patients with PHP-1a demonstrate hyperphagic symptoms similar to matched obese controls. PMID:25337124

  13. Rationales and treatment approaches underpinning the use of acupuncture and related techniques for plantar heel pain: a critical interpretive synthesis.

    PubMed

    Clark, Maria T; Clark, Richard J; Toohey, Shane; Bradbury-Jones, Caroline

    2017-03-01

    Acupuncture shows promise as a treatment for plantar heel pain (PHP) or plantar fasciitis (PF), but data heterogeneity has undermined demonstration of efficacy. Recognising that acupuncture is a diverse field of practice, the aim of this study was to gain a broader, global perspective on the different approaches and rationales used in the application of acupuncture in PHP. We built upon an earlier systematic review (which was limited by the necessity of a methodological focus on efficacy) using the critical interpretive synthesis (CIS) method to draw upon a wider international sample of 25 clinical sources, including case reports and case series. Multiple tracks of analysis led to an emergent synthesis. Findings are presented at three levels: primary (summarised data); secondary (patterns observed); and tertiary (emergent synthesis). Multiple treatments and rationales were documented but no single approach dominated. Notable contradictions emerged such as the application of moxibustion by some authors and ice by others. Synthesis of findings revealed a 'patchwork' of factors influencing the approaches taken. The complexity of the field of acupuncture was illustrated through the 'lens' of PHP. The 'patchwork' metaphor provides a unifying framework for a previously divergent community of practice and research. Several directions for future research were identified, such as: importance of prior duration; existence of diagnostic subgroups; and how practitioners make clinical decisions and report their findings. CIS was found to provide visibility for multiple viewpoints in developing theory and modelling the processes of 'real world' practice by acupuncturists addressing the problem of PHP. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  14. DefEX: Hands-On Cyber Defense Exercise for Undergraduate Students

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-07-01

    Injection, and 4) File Upload. Next, the students patched the associated flawed Perl and PHP Hypertext Preprocessor ( PHP ) code. Finally, students...underlying script. The Zora XSS vulnerability existed in a PHP file that echoed unfiltered user input back to the screen. To eliminate the...vulnerability, students filtered the input using the PHP htmlentities function and retested the code. The htmlentities function translates certain ambiguous

  15. Health-related quality of life in patients with nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism and pseudohypoparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Underbjerg, L; Sikjaer, T; Rejnmark, L

    2018-03-09

    Nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism (NS-HypoPT) and pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) are rare diseases, with a prevalence of 2/100.000 and 1/100.000, respectively. Only few studies on Quality of Life (QoL) among patients with Ns-HypoPT and PHP are available. We aimed to investigate the QoL among patients with Ns-HypoPT and PHP including information about education. A cohort study with patients identified from a previously epidemiological study. Fifty seven patients with Ns-HypoPT and 30 patients with PHP. The well-validated questionnaires SF-36v2 and WHO-5 Well Being Index. Results compared to norm-based material, disease-specific norm-based material and patients with postsurgical HypoPT RESULTS: SF36v2 showed a significantly reduced score in all eight subdomains in patients with NS-HypoPT compared with a norm-based population. PHP patients scored lower in five subdomains. Females were more affected than males. Compared with postsurgical HypoPT, Ns-HypoPT and PHP are compatible at most domains. At the domains Physical Function, Social Function and Mental Health, Ns-HypoPT and PHP patients scored significantly lower (P all  < .05). At the Mental Component Score, patients with Ns-HypoPT had a lower score compared with postsurgical HypoPT (P < .01). The overall WHO-5 Well Being Index score was comparable between groups (P = .45). No differences were seen comparing patients with postsurgical HypoPT and Ns-HypoPT (P = .68) or postsurgical HypoPT and PHP (P = .67). A WHO-5 score below 28 indicates depression (NS-HypoPT=7; PHP=3, P = .71), whereas a score between 28-50 suggesting poor emotional well-being (NS-HypoPT=19; PHP=5, P = .13). The remaining patients scored above 50 suggesting well-being. QoL is impaired equally among patients with Ns-HypoPT and PHP. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  16. A structural role for the PHP domain in E. coli DNA polymerase III

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background In addition to the core catalytic machinery, bacterial replicative DNA polymerases contain a Polymerase and Histidinol Phosphatase (PHP) domain whose function is not entirely understood. The PHP domains of some bacterial replicases are active metal-dependent nucleases that may play a role in proofreading. In E. coli DNA polymerase III, however, the PHP domain has lost several metal-coordinating residues and is likely to be catalytically inactive. Results Genomic searches show that the loss of metal-coordinating residues in polymerase PHP domains is likely to have coevolved with the presence of a separate proofreading exonuclease that works with the polymerase. Although the E. coli Pol III PHP domain has lost metal-coordinating residues, the structure of the domain has been conserved to a remarkable degree when compared to that of metal-binding PHP domains. This is demonstrated by our ability to restore metal binding with only three point mutations, as confirmed by the metal-bound crystal structure of this mutant determined at 2.9 Å resolution. We also show that Pol III, a large multi-domain protein, unfolds cooperatively and that mutations in the degenerate metal-binding site of the PHP domain decrease the overall stability of Pol III and reduce its activity. Conclusions While the presence of a PHP domain in replicative bacterial polymerases is strictly conserved, its ability to coordinate metals and to perform proofreading exonuclease activity is not, suggesting additional non-enzymatic roles for the domain. Our results show that the PHP domain is a major structural element in Pol III and its integrity modulates both the stability and activity of the polymerase. PMID:23672456

  17. Chemosaturation with Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion for Unresectable Isolated Hepatic Metastases from Sarcoma

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

    Deneve, Jeremiah L., E-mail: Jeremiah.Deneve@Moffitt.org; Choi, Junsung; Gonzalez, Ricardo J.

    Purpose: Treatment of patients with unresectable liver metastases is challenging. Regional therapies to the liver have been developed that maximize treatment of the localized disease process without systemic toxic adverse effects. We discuss the procedural aspects of liver chemosaturation with percutaneous hepatic perfusion (CS-PHP). Methods: We present as an illustration of this technique a case report of the treatment of unresectable metastatic leiomyosarcoma of the liver. Results: A randomized phase III trial for unresectable liver metastases from melanoma was recently completed comparing CS-PHP with melphalan vs. best alternative care (BAC). When compared with BAC, CS-PHP was associated with a significantmore » improvement in hepatic progression-free survival (8.0 months CS-PHP vs. 1.6 months BAC, p < 0.0001) and overall progression-free survival (6.7 months CS-PHP vs. 1.6 months BAC, p < 0.0001), respectively. On the basis of these results, and given our experience as one of the treating institutions for this phase III trial, we appealed for compassionate use of CS-PHP in a patient with isolated bilobar unresectable hepatic metastases from leiomyosarcoma. Four target lesions were identified and monitored to assess treatment response. A total of 4 CS-PHP procedures were performed, with a 25 % reduction in size of the largest lesion observed and 16 month hepatic progression-free survival. Toxicity was mild (neutropenia) and manageable on an outpatient basis. Conclusion: CS-PHP offers several advantages for unresectable hepatic sarcoma metastases. CS-PHP is minimally invasive and repeatable, and it has a predictable and manageable systemic toxicity profile. For appropriately selected patients, CS-PHP can delay tumor progression and could potentially improve survival.« less

  18. Effectiveness of the polysaccharide hemostatic powder in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: Using propensity score matching.

    PubMed

    Park, Jun Chul; Kim, Yeong Jin; Kim, Eun Hye; Lee, Jinae; Yang, Hyun Su; Kim, Eun Hwa; Hahn, Kyu Yeon; Shin, Sung Kwan; Lee, Sang Kil; Lee, Yong Chan

    2018-02-07

    Recently, the application of hemostatic powder to the bleeding site has been used to treat active upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). We aimed to assess the effectiveness of the polysaccharide hemostatic powder (PHP) in patients with non-variceal UGIB. We reviewed prospectively collected 40 patients with UGIB treated with PHP therapy between April 2016 and January 2017 (PHP group) and 303 patients with UGIB treated with conventional therapy between April 2012 and October 2014 (conventional therapy group). We compared the rate of successful hemostasis and the rebleeding between the two groups after as well as before propensity score matching using the Glasgow-Blatchford score and Forrest classification. Thirty patients treated with the PHP and 60 patients treated with conventional therapy were included in the matched groups. Baseline patient characteristics including comorbidities, vital signs, and bleeding scores were similar in the matched groups. The rate of immediate hemostasis and 7-day and 30-day rebleeding were also similar in the two groups before and after matching. In the subgroup analysis, no significant differences in immediate hemostasis or rebleeding rate were noted between PHP in monotherapy and PHP combined with a conventional hemostatic method. At 30 days after the therapy, there were no significant PHP-related complications or mortality. Given its safety, the PHP proved feasible for endoscopic treatment of UGIB, having similar effectiveness as that of conventional therapy. The PHP may become a promising hemostatic method for non-variceal UGIB. © 2018 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

  19. Is the risk of primary hyperparathyroidism increased in patients with untreated breast cancer?

    PubMed

    Belardi, V; Fiore, E; Giustarini, E; Muller, I; Sabatini, S; Rosellini, V; Seregni, E; Agresti, R; Marcocci, C; Vitti, P; Giani, C

    2013-05-01

    An increased frequency of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) has been reported in patients with treated breast cancer (BC). PHP has been found in about 7% of BC patients after surgery and radio-, chemio- or hormonal therapy. To evaluate the frequency of PHP in untreated BC patients. We evaluated 186 women with BC and 233 women with thyroid cancer (TC, no.=122) or benign thyroid diseases (BTD, no.=111). In all patients, serum calcium, albumin, PTH, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH vitD) were measured before any treatment. Serum calcium concentrations were significantly higher in BC than in TC and BTD groups (median values 9.5 mg/dl, 9.3 mg/dl and 9.3 mg/dl, respectively) but, according to a logistic regression model, calcium was not significantly different between the 3 groups when age was taken into account. In all patients, serum calcium was in the normal range, indicating that no case of overt PHP was present. Five patients (1 in BC, 2 in TC, and 2 in BDT groups) had serum calcium close to the upper limit of normal range, high PTH and low 25-OH vitD, indicating a possible PHP with hypercalcemia masked by concomitant 25-OH vitD deficiency. In untreated BC group, no patient had overt PHP and 1/186 (0.5%) presented a possible PHP masked by 25-OH vitD deficiency, a PHP frequency much lower than that observed in treated BC patients. These data suggest that the treatments of BC may be responsible for the increased frequency of PHP reported in previous studies.

  20. Exclusion of the GNAS Locus in PHP-Ib Patients With Broad GNAS Methylation Changes: Evidence for an Autosomal Recessive Form of PHP-Ib?

    PubMed Central

    Fernández-Rebollo, Eduardo; de Nanclares, Guiomar Pérez; Lecumberri, Beatriz; Turan, Serap; Anda, Emma; Pérez-Nanclares, Gustavo; Feig, Denice; Nik-Zainal, Serena; Bastepe, Murat; Jüppner, Harald

    2013-01-01

    Most patients with autosomal dominant pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (AD-PHP-Ib) carry maternally inherited microdeletions upstream of GNAS that are associated with loss of methylation restricted to GNAS exon A/B. Only few AD-PHP-Ib patients carry microdeletions within GNAS that are associated with loss of all maternal methylation imprints. These epigenetic changes are often indistinguishable from those observed in patients affected by an apparently sporadic PHP-Ib form that has not yet been defined genetically. We have now investigated six female patients affected by PHP-Ib (four unrelated and two sisters) with complete or almost complete loss of GNAS methylation, whose healthy children (11 in total) showed no epigenetic changes at this locus. Analysis of several microsatellite markers throughout the 20q13 region made it unlikely that PHP-Ib is caused in these patients by large deletions involving GNAS or by paternal uniparental isodisomy or heterodisomy of chromosome 20 (patUPD20). Microsatellite and single-nucleotide variation (SNV) data revealed that the two affected sisters share their maternally inherited GNAS alleles with unaffected relatives that lack evidence for abnormal GNAS methylation, thus excluding linkage to this locus. Consistent with these findings, healthy children of two unrelated sporadic PHP-Ib patients had inherited different maternal GNAS alleles, also arguing against linkage to this locus. Based on our data, it appears plausible that some forms of PHP-Ib are caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous mutation(s) in an unknown gene involved in establishing or maintaining GNAS methylation. PMID:21523828

  1. [Comparison of Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter (PHP) test and Amsler grid test in the diagnosis of different stages of age-related macular degeneration].

    PubMed

    Kampmeier, J; Zorn, M M; Lang, G K; Botros, Y T; Lang, G E

    2006-09-01

    Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people over 65 years of age. A rapid loss of vision occurs especially in cases with choroidal neovascularisation. Early detection of ARMD and timely treatment are mandatory. We have prospectively studied the results of two diagnostic self tests for the early detection of metamorphopsia and scotoma, the PHP test and the Amsler grid test, in different stages of ARMD. Patients with ARMD and best corrected visual acuity of 6/30 or better (Snellen charts) were examined with a standardised protocol, including supervised Amsler grid examination and PHP, a new device for metamorphopsia or scotoma measurement, based on the hyperacuity phenomenon in the central 14 degrees of the visual field. The stages of ARMD were independently graded in a masked fashion by stereoscopic ophthalmoscopy, stereoscopic fundus colour photographs, fluorescein angiography, and OCT. The patients were subdivided into 3 non-neovascular groups [early, late (RPE atrophy > 175 microm) and geographic atrophy], a neovascular group (classic and occult CNV) and an age-matched control group (healthy volunteers). 140 patients, with ages ranging from 50 to 90 years (median 68 years), were included in the study. Best corrected visual acuity ranged from 6/30 to 6/6 with a median of 6/12. 95 patients were diagnosed as non-neovascular ARMD. Thirty eyes had early ARMD (9 were tested positive by the PHP test and 9 by the Amsler grid test), and 50 late ARMD (positive: PHP test 23, Amsler grid test 26). The group with geographic atrophy consisted of 15 eyes (positive: PHP test 13, Amsler grid test 10). Forty-five patients presented with neovascular ARMD (positive: PHP test 38, Amsler grid test 36), 34 volunteers served as control group (positive: PHP test 1, Amsler grid test 5). The PHP and Amsler grid tests revealed comparable results detecting metamorphopsia and scotoma in early ARMD (30 vs. 30 %) and late ARMD (46 vs. 52 %). However, the PHP test more often revealed disease-related functional changes in the groups of geographic atrophy (87 vs. 67 %) and neovascular ARMD (84 vs. 80 %). This implies that the PHP and Amsler grid self tests are useful tools for detection of ARMD and that the PHP test has a greater sensitivity in the groups of geographic atrophy and neovascular AMD.

  2. Pistachio hull water-soluble polysaccharides as a novel prebiotic agent.

    PubMed

    Akbari-Alavijeh, Safoura; Soleimanian-Zad, Sabihe; Sheikh-Zeinoddin, Mahmoud; Hashmi, Sarwar

    2018-02-01

    We isolated and characterized pistachio hull polysaccharides (PHP). The PHP was a heteropolysaccharide mainly contained 75.50% (w/w) total sugar and 9.51% (w/w) uronic acid. As determined by GPC analysis, the polysaccharide with a molecular weight of 3.71×10 6 D (83.2%) was the most dominant fraction. Moreover, HPLC analysis indicated that PHP was predominantly composed of xylose, glucose, arabinose, and fructose with a molar ratio of 1.00:2.50:19.67:28.81. FT-IR and NMR analysis also confirmed the results obtained by HPLC and characterized preliminary structure features of the PHP. Functional properties of the PHP including water holding capacity (WHC: 2.44±0.05g water/g DM), and oil holding capacity (OHC: 11.53±0.04g oil/g DM) were significant compared to inulin used as reference prebiotic (p<0.01). Furthermore, the PHP remained 94.37% undigested in the simulated digestion process and stimulated the growth of L. plantarum PTCC 1896 and L. rhamnosus GG and increased the acetate, propionate and butyrate production over inulin in vitro. Totally, the PHP showed a considerable prebiotic capability and high WHC, OHC suggesting that the PHP is a potent pharmaceutical with good technological properties which can be used in food and drug industries. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Spinal cord compression in pseudohypoparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Roberts, Timothy T; Khasnavis, Siddharth; Papaliodis, Dean N; Citone, Isabella; Carl, Allen L

    2013-12-01

    Spinal cord compression associated with pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is an increasingly reported sequelae of the underlying metabolic syndrome. The association of neurologic dysfunction with PHP is not well appreciated. We believe this to be secondary to a combination of underlying congenital stenosis, manifest by short pedicles secondary to premature physeal closure, and hypertrophic ossification of the vertebral bony and ligamentous complexes. The purpose of this case report is to review the case of spinal stenosis in a child with PHP Type Ia. We are aware of only eight published reports of patients with PHP Type Ia and spinal stenosis-there are only two previously known cases of pediatric spinal stenosis secondary to PHP. This is a case report detailing the symptoms, diagnosis, interventions, complications, and ultimate outcomes of a pediatric patient undergoing spinal decompression and fusion for symptomatic stenosis secondary to PHP Type Ia. Literature search was reviewed regarding the reports of spinal stenosis and PHP, and the results are culminated and discussed. We report on a 14-year-old obese male with PHP and progressive lower extremity weakness secondary to congenital spinal stenosis. Examination revealed functional upper extremities with spastic paraplegia of bilateral lower extremities. The patient's neurologic function was cautiously monitored, but he deteriorated to a bed-bound state, preoperatively. The patient's chart was reviewed, summarized, and presented. Literature was searched using cross-reference of PHP and the terms "spinal stenosis," "myelopathy", "myelopathic," and "spinal cord compression." All relevant case reports were reviewed, and the results are discussed herein. The patient underwent decompression and instrumented fusion of T2-T11. He improved significantly with regard to lower extremity function, achieving unassisted ambulation function after extensive rehabilitation. Results from surgical decompression in previously reported cases are mixed, ranging from full recovery to iatrogenic paraplegia. The association of neurologic dysfunction with PHP is not well appreciated. It is important to highlight this rare association. Surgical decompression in patients with PHP yields mixed results but may be of greatest efficacy in younger patients who receive early intervention. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Assessment of visual distortions in age-related macular degeneration: emergence of new approaches

    PubMed Central

    Vazquez, Noelia Pitrelli; Knox, Paul C.

    2016-01-01

    Aims With the arrival of effective treatments for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) there is a need to find improved tests that would allow early detection. Ideally, these tests would allow monitoring of vision by patients themselves from home. The aim of this review is to discuss the available evidence for two recently developed vision tests designed for this purpose: the Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter (PHP) test and the Radial Shape Discrimination (RSD) test. Methods Articles that investigated detection of nvAMD were reviewed. The methodology of the clinical evidence, where available, was judged for bias and applicability of the results to the general population using the QUADAS-2 quality assessment tool. Results The PHP test has proved to be good at detecting nvAMD but many studies assessed in this review were biased in the selection of patients, restricting the results to only those patients who can use the test and produce reliable results. On the other hand the RSD test is a simple test, well accepted by elderly patients with AMD. However, clinical studies to determine its value in the detection of early signs of nvAMD are still required. Conclusions To date, more studies have investigated the utility of the PHP test compared with the RSD test for detection of nvAMD. Both tests show promise but further evidence is needed to determine the real generalisability of the PHP test and the sensitivity of the RSD test. PMID:27738450

  5. Do Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines Represent Good Value for Money in a Lower-Middle Income Country? A Cost-Utility Analysis in the Philippines.

    PubMed

    Haasis, Manuel Alexander; Ceria, Joyce Anne; Kulpeng, Wantanee; Teerawattananon, Yot; Alejandria, Marissa

    2015-01-01

    The objective of this study is to assess the value for money of introducing pneumococcal conjugate vaccines as part of the immunization program in a lower-middle income country, the Philippines, which is not eligible for GAVI support and lower vaccine prices. It also includes the newest clinical evidence evaluating the efficacy of PCV10, which is lacking in other previous studies. A cost-utility analysis was conducted. A Markov simulation model was constructed to examine the costs and consequences of PCV10 and PCV13 against the current scenario of no PCV vaccination for a lifetime horizon. A health system perspective was employed to explore different funding schemes, which include universal or partial vaccination coverage subsidized by the government. Results were presented as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) in Philippine peso (Php) per QALY gained (1 USD = 44.20 Php). Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the impact of parameter uncertainty. With universal vaccination at a cost per dose of Php 624 for PCV10 and Php 700 for PCV13, both PCVs are cost-effective compared to no vaccination given the ceiling threshold of Php 120,000 per QALY gained, yielding ICERs of Php 68,182 and Php 54,510 for PCV10 and PCV13, respectively. Partial vaccination of 25% of the birth cohort resulted in significantly higher ICER values (Php 112,640 for PCV10 and Php 84,654 for PCV13) due to loss of herd protection. The budget impact analysis reveals that universal vaccination would cost Php 3.87 billion to 4.34 billion per annual, or 1.6 to 1.8 times the budget of the current national vaccination program. The inclusion of PCV in the national immunization program is recommended. PCV13 achieved better value for money compared to PCV10. However, the affordability and sustainability of PCV implementation over the long-term should be considered by decision makers.

  6. Optimal design of tunable phononic bandgap plates under equibiaxial stretch

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hedayatrasa, Saeid; Abhary, Kazem; Uddin, M. S.; Guest, James K.

    2016-05-01

    Design and application of phononic crystal (PhCr) acoustic metamaterials has been a topic with tremendous growth of interest in the last decade due to their promising capabilities to manipulate acoustic and elastodynamic waves. Phononic controllability of waves through a particular PhCr is limited only to the spectrums located within its fixed bandgap frequency. Hence the ability to tune a PhCr is desired to add functionality over its variable bandgap frequency or for switchability. Deformation induced bandgap tunability of elastomeric PhCr solids and plates with prescribed topology have been studied by other researchers. Principally the internal stress state and distorted geometry of a deformed phononic crystal plate (PhP) changes its effective stiffness and leads to deformation induced tunability of resultant modal band structure. Thus the microstructural topology of a PhP can be altered so that specific tunability features are met through prescribed deformation. In the present study novel tunable PhPs of this kind with optimized bandgap efficiency-tunability of guided waves are computationally explored and evaluated. Low loss transmission of guided waves throughout thin walled structures makes them ideal for fabrication of low loss ultrasound devices and structural health monitoring purposes. Various tunability targets are defined to enhance or degrade complete bandgaps of plate waves through macroscopic tensile deformation. Elastomeric hyperelastic material is considered which enables recoverable micromechanical deformation under tuning finite stretch. Phononic tunability through stable deformation of phononic lattice is specifically required and so any topology showing buckling instability under assumed deformation is disregarded. Nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (GA) NSGA-II is adopted for evolutionary multiobjective topology optimization of hypothesized tunable PhP with square symmetric unit-cell and relevant topologies are analyzed through finite element method. Following earlier studies by the authors, specialized GA algorithm, topology mapping, assessment and analysis techniques are employed to get feasible porous topologies of assumed thick PhP, efficiently.

  7. Exclusion of the GNAS locus in PHP-Ib patients with broad GNAS methylation changes: evidence for an autosomal recessive form of PHP-Ib?

    PubMed

    Fernández-Rebollo, Eduardo; Pérez de Nanclares, Guiomar; Lecumberri, Beatriz; Turan, Serap; Anda, Emma; Pérez-Nanclares, Gustavo; Feig, Denice; Nik-Zainal, Serena; Bastepe, Murat; Jüppner, Harald

    2011-08-01

    Most patients with autosomal dominant pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (AD-PHP-Ib) carry maternally inherited microdeletions upstream of GNAS that are associated with loss of methylation restricted to GNAS exon A/B. Only few AD-PHP-Ib patients carry microdeletions within GNAS that are associated with loss of all maternal methylation imprints. These epigenetic changes are often indistinguishable from those observed in patients affected by an apparently sporadic PHP-Ib form that has not yet been defined genetically. We have now investigated six female patients affected by PHP-Ib (four unrelated and two sisters) with complete or almost complete loss of GNAS methylation, whose healthy children (11 in total) showed no epigenetic changes at this locus. Analysis of several microsatellite markers throughout the 20q13 region made it unlikely that PHP-Ib is caused in these patients by large deletions involving GNAS or by paternal uniparental isodisomy or heterodisomy of chromosome 20 (patUPD20). Microsatellite and single-nucleotide variation (SNV) data revealed that the two affected sisters share their maternally inherited GNAS alleles with unaffected relatives that lack evidence for abnormal GNAS methylation, thus excluding linkage to this locus. Consistent with these findings, healthy children of two unrelated sporadic PHP-Ib patients had inherited different maternal GNAS alleles, also arguing against linkage to this locus. Based on our data, it appears plausible that some forms of PHP-Ib are caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous mutation(s) in an unknown gene involved in establishing or maintaining GNAS methylation. Copyright © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

  8. Evaluation of a novel electronic genetic screening and clinical decision support tool in prenatal clinical settings.

    PubMed

    Edelman, Emily A; Lin, Bruce K; Doksum, Teresa; Drohan, Brian; Edelson, Vaughn; Dolan, Siobhan M; Hughes, Kevin; O'Leary, James; Vasquez, Lisa; Copeland, Sara; Galvin, Shelley L; DeGroat, Nicole; Pardanani, Setul; Gregory Feero, W; Adams, Claire; Jones, Renee; Scott, Joan

    2014-07-01

    "The Pregnancy and Health Profile" (PHP) is a free prenatal genetic screening and clinical decision support (CDS) software tool for prenatal providers. PHP collects family health history (FHH) during intake and provides point-of-care risk assessment for providers and education for patients. This pilot study evaluated patient and provider responses to PHP and effects of using PHP in practice. PHP was implemented in four clinics. Surveys assessed provider confidence and knowledge and patient and provider satisfaction with PHP. Data on the implementation process were obtained through semi-structured interviews with administrators. Quantitative survey data were analyzed using Chi square test, Fisher's exact test, paired t tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Open-ended survey questions and interviews were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. Of the 83% (513/618) of patients that provided feedback, 97% felt PHP was easy to use and 98% easy to understand. Thirty percent (21/71) of participating physicians completed both pre- and post-implementation feedback surveys [13 obstetricians (OBs) and 8 family medicine physicians (FPs)]. Confidence in managing genetic risks significantly improved for OBs on 2/6 measures (p values ≤0.001) but not for FPs. Physician knowledge did not significantly change. Providers reported value in added patient engagement and reported mixed feedback about the CDS report. We identified key steps, resources, and staff support required to implement PHP in a clinical setting. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report on the integration of patient-completed, electronically captured and CDS-enabled FHH software into primary prenatal practice. PHP is acceptable to patients and providers. Key to successful implementation in the future will be customization options and interoperability with electronic health records.

  9. A single-label phenylpyrrolocytidine provides a molecular beacon-like response reporting HIV-1 RT RNase H activity

    PubMed Central

    Wahba, Alexander S.; Esmaeili, Abbasali; Damha, Masad J.; Hudson, Robert H. E.

    2010-01-01

    6-Phenylpyrrolocytidine (PhpC), a structurally conservative and highly fluorescent cytidine analog, was incorporated into oligoribonucleotides. The PhpC-containing RNA formed native-like duplex structures with complementary DNA or RNA. The PhpC-modification was found to act as a sensitive reporter group being non-disruptive to structure and the enzymatic activity of RNase H. A RNA/DNA hybrid possessing a single PhpC insert was an excellent substrate for HIV-1 RT Ribonuclease H and rapidly reported cleavage of the RNA strand with a 14-fold increase in fluorescence intensity. The PhpC-based assay for RNase H was superior to the traditional molecular beacon approach in terms of responsiveness, rapidity and ease (single label versus dual). Furthermore, the PhpC-based assay is amenable to high-throughput microplate assay format and may form the basis for a new screen for inhibitors of HIV-RT RNase H. PMID:19933258

  10. Theoretical research of helium pulsating heat pipe under steady state conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, D.; Liu, H. M.; Li, L. F.; Huang, R. J.; Wang, W.

    2015-12-01

    As a new-type heat pipe, pulsating heat pipe (PHP) has several outstanding features, such as great heat transport ability, strong adjustability, small size and simple construction. PHP is a complex two-phase flow system associated with many physical subjects and parameters, which utilizes the pressure and temperature changes in volume expansion and contraction during phase changes to excite the pulsation motion of liquid plugs and vapor bubbles in the capillary tube between the evaporator and the condenser. At present time, some experimental investigation of helium PHP have been done. However, theoretical research of helium PHP is rare. In this paper, the physical and mathematical models of operating mechanism for helium PHP under steady state are established based on the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy. Several important parameters are correlated and solved, including the liquid filling ratio, flow velocity, heat power, temperature, etc. Based on the results, the operational driving force and flow resistances of helium PHP are analysed, and the flow and heat transfer is further studied.

  11. High salinity relay as a post-harvest processing method for reducing Vibrio vulnificus levels in oysters (Crassostrea virginica).

    PubMed

    Audemard, Corinne; Kator, Howard I; Reece, Kimberly S

    2018-08-20

    High salinity relay of Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) was evaluated as a post-harvest processing (PHP) method for reducing Vibrio vulnificus. This approach relies on the exposure of oysters to natural high salinity waters and preserves a live product compared to previously approved PHPs. Although results of prior studies evaluating high salinity relay as a means to decrease V. vulnificus levels were promising, validation of this method as a PHP following approved guidelines is required. This study was designed to provide data for validation of this method following Food and Drug Administration (FDA) PHP validation guidelines. During each of 3 relay experiments, oysters cultured from 3 different Chesapeake Bay sites of contrasting salinities (10-21 psu) were relayed without acclimation to high salinity waters (31-33 psu) for up to 28 days. Densities of V. vulnificus and densities of total and pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus (as tdh positive strains) were measured using an MPN-quantitative PCR approach. Overall, 9 lots of oysters were relayed with 6 exhibiting initial V. vulnificus >10,000/g. As recommended by the FDA PHP validation guidelines, these lots reached both the 3.52 log reduction and the <30 MPN/g densities requirements for V. vulnificus after 14 to 28 days of relay. Densities of total and pathogenic V. parahaemolyticus in relayed oysters were significantly lower than densities at the sites of origin suggesting an additional benefit associated with high salinity relay. While relay did not have a detrimental effect on oyster condition, oyster mortality levels ranged from 2 to 61% after 28 days of relay. Although the identification of the factors implicated in oyster mortality will require further examination, this study strongly supports the validation of high salinity relay as an effective PHP method to reduce levels of V. vulnificus in oysters to endpoint levels approved for human consumption. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. 77 FR 21103 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-04-09

    ... Maricopa County, index.php/arizona/ Buckeye, 530 East 2801 West Durango maricopa-county/. Monroe Avenue...-09- Chairman, Maricopa Maricopa County, index.php/arizona/ 3299P). County Board of 2801 West Durango... Maricopa County, index.php/arizona/ 3216P). County, Board of 2801 West Durango maricopa-county...

  13. Rhodium-Catalyzed Insertion Reaction of PhP Group of Pentaphenylcyclopentaphosphine with Acyclic and Cyclic Disulfides.

    PubMed

    Arisawa, Mieko; Sawahata, Kyosuke; Yamada, Tomoki; Sarkar, Debayan; Yamaguchi, Masahiko

    2018-02-16

    Organophosphorus compounds with a phosphorus atom attached to a phenyl group and two organothio/organoseleno groups were synthesized using the rhodium-catalyzed insertion reaction of the PhP group of pentaphenylcyclopentaphosphine (PhP) 5 with acyclic disulfides and diselenides. The method was applied to the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds containing the S-P-S group by the reaction of (PhP) 5 and cyclic disulfides such as 1,2-dithietes, 1,2-dithiocane, 1,4,5-dithiopane, and 1,2-dithiolanes.

  14. When Will It Be... USNO Seasons and Apsides Calculator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chizek Frouard, Malynda; Bartlett, Jennifer Lynn

    2018-01-01

    The turning of the Earth’s seasons (solstices and equinoxes) and apsides (perihelions and aphelions) are times often used in observational astronomy and also of interest to the public. To avoid tedious calculations, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) has developed an on-line interactive calculator, Earth’s Seasons and Apsides to provide information about events between 1600 and 2200. The new data service uses an Application Programming Interface (API), which returns values in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that can be incorporated into third-party websites or applications. For a requested year, the Earth’s Seasons and Apsides API provides the Gregorian calendar date and time of the Vernal Equinox, Summer Solstice, Autumnal Equinox, Winter Solstice, Aphelion, and Perihelion. The user may specify the time zone for their results, including the optional addition of U.S. daylight saving time for years after 1966.On-line documentation for using the API-enabled Earth’s Seasons and Apsides is available, including sample calls (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php). A traditional forms-based interface is available as well (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/EarthSeasons.php). This data service replaces the popular Earth's Seasons: Equinoxes, Solstices, Perihelion, and Aphelion page that provided a static list of events for 2000–2025. The USNO also provides API-enabled data services for Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/RS_OneDay.php), Dates of the Primary Phases of the Moon (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/MoonPhase.php), Selected Christian Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/easter.php), Selected Islamic Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/islamic.php), Selected Jewish Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/passover.php), Julian Date Conversion (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php), and Sidereal Time (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/siderealtime.php) as well as its Solar Eclipse Computer (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/SolarEclipses.php).

  15. Do Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines Represent Good Value for Money in a Lower-Middle Income Country? A Cost-Utility Analysis in the Philippines

    PubMed Central

    Haasis, Manuel Alexander; Ceria, Joyce Anne; Kulpeng, Wantanee; Teerawattananon, Yot; Alejandria, Marissa

    2015-01-01

    Objectives The objective of this study is to assess the value for money of introducing pneumococcal conjugate vaccines as part of the immunization program in a lower-middle income country, the Philippines, which is not eligible for GAVI support and lower vaccine prices. It also includes the newest clinical evidence evaluating the efficacy of PCV10, which is lacking in other previous studies. Methods A cost-utility analysis was conducted. A Markov simulation model was constructed to examine the costs and consequences of PCV10 and PCV13 against the current scenario of no PCV vaccination for a lifetime horizon. A health system perspective was employed to explore different funding schemes, which include universal or partial vaccination coverage subsidized by the government. Results were presented as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) in Philippine peso (Php) per QALY gained (1 USD = 44.20 Php). Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the impact of parameter uncertainty. Results With universal vaccination at a cost per dose of Php 624 for PCV10 and Php 700 for PCV13, both PCVs are cost-effective compared to no vaccination given the ceiling threshold of Php 120,000 per QALY gained, yielding ICERs of Php 68,182 and Php 54,510 for PCV10 and PCV13, respectively. Partial vaccination of 25% of the birth cohort resulted in significantly higher ICER values (Php 112,640 for PCV10 and Php 84,654 for PCV13) due to loss of herd protection. The budget impact analysis reveals that universal vaccination would cost Php 3.87 billion to 4.34 billion per annual, or 1.6 to 1.8 times the budget of the current national vaccination program. Conclusion The inclusion of PCV in the national immunization program is recommended. PCV13 achieved better value for money compared to PCV10. However, the affordability and sustainability of PCV implementation over the long-term should be considered by decision makers. PMID:26131961

  16. Ultrasound combined transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (UltraTENS) versus phonophoresis of piroxicam (PhP) in symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: A randomized double-blind, controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Boonhong, Jariya; Suntornpiyapan, Phitsanu; Piriyajarukul, Apatchanee

    2018-02-02

    Ultrasound combined with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (UltraTENS) and phonophoresis of piroxicam (PhP) are combined modality therapy that frequently used in musculoskeletal pain including knee osteoarthritis (OA). But it is lack of a good clinical trial to prove and compare their effects. To compare the effects of UltraTENS with PhP on mild to moderate degree of symptomatic knee OA. Sixty-one patients (55 women), mean age of 63.4 ± 8.1 y, 50-90 mm VAS of knee pain and Kellgren-Lawrence score of grade I-III were randomly allocated into UltraTENS and PhP (N = 31 and 30, respectively). The UltraTENS group received a combined ultrasound with TENS program and a non-drug gel, whereas the PhP group got an ultrasound program with piroxicam gel and sham TENS. All patients were treated for a total of 10 sessions, consisting of five times per week and 10 min per session. Before and after treatment, patients were evaluated knee pain by using the 100-mm VAS and functional performance by Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index. The UltraTENS and PhP groups experienced considerable improvement in both VAS and total WOMAC scores post-treatment (P< 0.001). The PhP had better VAS of pain and WOMAC scores but no statistical significance. Results show that UltraTENS and PhP were effective for relieving pain and improve functionality knee OA without significant differences between their effects.

  17. The Benefits of Parenting Self-Help Groups for Rural Latino Parents.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wituk, Scott; Commer, Amy; Lindstrom, Julie; Meisen, Greg

    2001-01-01

    A survey of 118 rural, mostly female, Latino participants in Parents Helping Parents (PHP)--a Kansas network of parenting self-help groups--found high satisfaction with PHP. PHP provided support and information concerning child rearing and child development, improved family communication, and increased the use of alternative means of discipline.…

  18. Testing Theoretical Relationships: Factors Influencing Positive Health Practices (PHP) in Filipino College Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ayres, Cynthia; Mahat, Ganga; Atkins, Robert

    2013-01-01

    Objective: To examine variables influencing the positive health practices (PHP) of Filipino college students to gain a better understanding of health practices in this ethnic/racial group. Cross-sectional study tested theoretical relationships postulated among (a) PHP, (b) social support (SS), (c) optimism, and (d) acculturation. Participants: A…

  19. PHP-HT (VitaResc Biotech).

    PubMed

    Baldwin, A; Wiley, E

    2001-04-01

    VitaResc (formerly Apex) is developing PHP-HT, pyridoxalated hemoglobin polyoxyethylene conjugate, for the potential treatment of nitric oxide-induced shock (characterized by hypotension), associated with various etiologies, initially in septic shock. A phase I safety study and an initial phase I/II patient trial for NO-induced shock have been completed, and VitaResc has enrolled patients in three of five planned cohorts in a continuation of these trials to include a protocol of continuous infusion and dose escalation [330680,349187,390918]. The results from the dose escalation trials are expected to provide the basis for a randomized, controlled phase II/III pivotal trial of PHP-HT [390918]. VitaResc has licensed PHP-HT exclusively from Ajinomoto for all indications, worldwide, except Japan [275263]. Ajinomoto originally developed the human derived and chemically modified hemoglobin preparation as a blood substitute, but no development has been reported by the company since 1997 [275277,303577]. The other potential indications of PHP-HT include shock associated with burns, pancreatitis, hemodialysis and cytokine therapies [275277]. VitaResc expects the annual market potential of PHP-HT to exceed 1 billion dollars [330680].

  20. Pretreating lignocellulosic biomass by the concentrated phosphoric acid plus hydrogen peroxide (PHP) for enzymatic hydrolysis: evaluating the pretreatment flexibility on feedstocks and particle sizes.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qing; Wang, Zhanghong; Shen, Fei; Hu, Jinguang; Sun, Fubao; Lin, Lili; Yang, Gang; Zhang, Yanzong; Deng, Shihuai

    2014-08-01

    In order to seek a high-efficient pretreatment path for converting lignocellulosic feedstocks to fermentable sugars by enzymatic hydrolysis, the concentrated H₃PO₄ plus H₂O₂ (PHP) was attempted to pretreat different lignocellulosic biomass for evaluating the pretreatment flexibility on feedstocks. Meanwhile, the responses of pretreatment to particle sizes were also evaluated. When the PHP-pretreatment was employed (final H₂O₂ and H₃PO₄ concentration of 1.77% and 80.0%), 71-96% lignin and more than 95% hemicellulose in various feedstocks (agricultural residues, hardwood, softwood, bamboo, and their mixture, and garden wastes mixture) can be removed. Consequently, more than 90% glucose conversion was uniformly achieved indicating PHP greatly improved the pretreatment flexibility to different feedstocks. Moreover, when wheat straw and oak chips were PHP-pretreated with different sizes, the average glucose conversion reached 94.9% and 100% with lower coefficient of variation (7.9% and 0.0%), which implied PHP-pretreatment can significantly weaken the negative effects of feedstock sizes on subsequent conversion. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Development of DEMO-FNS tokamak for fusion and hybrid technologies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuteev, B. V.; Azizov, E. A.; Alexeev, P. N.; Ignatiev, V. V.; Subbotin, S. A.; Tsibulskiy, V. F.

    2015-07-01

    The history of fusion-fission hybrid systems based on a tokamak device as an extremely efficient DT-fusion neutron source has passed through several periods of ample research activity in the world since the very beginning of fusion research in the 1950s. Recently, a new roadmap of the hybrid program has been proposed with the goal to build a pilot hybrid plant (PHP) in Russia by 2030. Development of the DEMO-FNS tokamak for fusion and hybrid technologies, which is planned to be built by 2023, is the key milestone on the path to the PHP. This facility is in the phase of conceptual design aimed at providing feasibility studies for a full set of steady state tokamak technologies at a fusion energy gain factor Q ˜ 1, fusion power of ˜40 MW and opportunities for testing a wide range of hybrid technologies with the emphasis on continuous nuclide processing in molten salts. This paper describes the project motivations, its current status and the key issues of the design.

  2. Quantitative analysis of methylation defects and correlation with clinical characteristics in patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism type I and GNAS epigenetic alterations.

    PubMed

    Elli, Francesca M; de Sanctis, Luisa; Bollati, Valentina; Tarantini, Letizia; Filopanti, Marcello; Barbieri, Anna Maria; Peverelli, Erika; Beck-Peccoz, Paolo; Spada, Anna; Mantovani, Giovanna

    2014-03-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type I (PHP-I) includes two main subtypes, PHP-Ia and -Ib. About 70% of PHP-Ia patients, who show Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) associated with resistance toward multiple hormones (PTH/TSH/GHRH/gonadotropins), carry heterozygous mutations in the α-subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gsα) exons 1-13, encoded by the guanine nucleotide binding-protein α-stimulating activity polypeptide 1 (GNAS), whereas the majority of PHP-Ib patients, who classically display hormone resistance limited to PTH and TSH with no AHO sign, have methylation defects in the imprinted GNAS cluster. Recently methylation defects have been detected also in patients with PHP and different degrees of AHO, indicating a molecular overlap between the two forms. The objectives of the study were to collect patients with the following characteristics: clinical PHP-I (with or without AHO), no mutation in Gsα coding sequence, but the presence of GNAS methylation alterations and to investigate the existence of correlations between the degree of the epigenetic defect and the severity of the disease. We quantified GNAS methylation alterations by both PCR-pyrosequencing and methylation specific-multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification assay in genomic DNA from 63 patients with PHP-I and correlated these findings with clinical parameters (age at diagnosis; calcium, phosphorus, PTH, TSH levels; presence or absence of each AHO sign). By both approaches, the degree of the imprinting defect did not correlate with the onset of the disease, the severity of endocrine resistances, or with the presence/absence of specific AHO signs. Similar molecular alterations may lead to a broad spectrum of diseases, from isolated PTH resistance to complete PHP-Ia, and the degree of methylation alterations does not reflect or anticipate the severity and the type of different PHP/AHO manifestations.

  3. Heat transfer performance of a pulsating heat pipe charged with acetone-based mixtures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Wenqing; Cui, Xiaoyu; Zhu, Yue

    2017-06-01

    Pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) are used as high efficiency heat exchangers, and the selection of working fluids in PHPs has a great impact on the heat transfer performance. This study investigates the thermal resistance characteristics of the PHP charged with acetone-based binary mixtures, where deionized water, methanol and ethanol were added to and mixed with acetone, respectively. The volume mixing ratios were 2:1, 4:1 and 7:1, and the heating power ranged from 10 to 100 W with filling ratios of 45, 55, 62 and 70%. At a low filling ratio (45%), the zeotropic characteristics of the binary mixtures have an influence on the heat transfer performance of the PHP. Adding water, which has a substantially different boiling point compared with that of acetone, can significantly improve the anti-dry-out ability inside the PHP. At a medium filling ratio (55%), the heat transfer performance of the PHP is affected by both phase transition characteristics and physical properties of working fluids. At high heating power, the thermal resistance of the PHP with acetone-water mixture is between that with pure acetone and pure water, whereas the thermal resistance of the PHP with acetone-methanol and acetone-ethanol mixtures at mixing ratios of 2:1 and 4:1 is less than that with the corresponding pure fluids. At high filling ratios (62 and 70%), the heat transfer performance of the PHP is mainly determined by the properties of working fluids that affects the flow resistance. Thus, the PHP with acetone-methanol and acetone-ethanol mixtures that have a lower flow resistance shows better heat transfer performance than that with acetone-water mixture.

  4. Intravenous administration of the adeno-associated virus-PHP.B capsid fails to upregulate transduction efficiency in the marmoset brain.

    PubMed

    Matsuzaki, Yasunori; Konno, Ayumu; Mochizuki, Ryuta; Shinohara, Yoichiro; Nitta, Keisuke; Okada, Yukihiro; Hirai, Hirokazu

    2018-02-05

    Intravenous administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.B, a capsid variant of AAV9 containing seven amino acid insertions, results in a greater permeability of the blood brain barrier (BBB) than standard AAV9 in mice, leading to highly efficient and global transduction of the central nervous system (CNS). The present study aimed to examine whether the enhanced BBB penetrance of AAV-PHP.B observed in mice also occurs in non-human primates. Thus, a young adult (age, 1.6 years) and an old adult (age, 7.2 years) marmoset received an intravenous injection of AAV-PHP.B expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of the constitutive CBh promoter (a hybrid of cytomegalovirus early enhancer and chicken β-actin promoter). Age-matched control marmosets were treated with standard AAV9-capsid vectors. The animals were sacrificed 6 weeks after the viral injection. Based on the results, only limited transduction of neurons (0-2%) and astrocytes (0.1-2.5%) was observed in both AAV-PHP.B- and AAV9-treated marmosets. One noticeable difference between AAV-PHP.B and AAV9 was the marked transduction of the peripheral dorsal root ganglia neurons. Indeed, the soma and axons in the projection from the spinal cord to the nucleus cuneatus in the medulla oblongata were strongly labeled with EGFP by AAV-PHP.B. Thus, except for the peripheral dorsal root ganglia neurons, the AAV-PHP.B transduction efficiency in the CNS of marmosets was comparable to that of AAV9 vectors. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Energy Expenditure in Obese Children with Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1a

    PubMed Central

    Shoemaker, Ashley H.; Lomenick, Jefferson P.; Saville, Benjamin R.; Wang, Wenli; Buchowski, Maciej S.; Cone, Roger D.

    2012-01-01

    Context Patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a (PHP-1a) develop early-onset obesity. The abnormality in energy expenditure and/or energy intake responsible for this weight gain is unknown. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate energy expenditure in children with PHP-1a compared with obese controls. Patients We studied 6 obese females with PHP-1a and 17 obese female controls. Patients were recruited from a single academic center. Measurements Resting energy expenditure and thermogenic effect of a high fat meal were measured using whole room indirect calorimetry. Body composition was assessed using whole body dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Fasting glucose, insulin and hemoglobin A1C were measured. Results Children with PHP-1a had decreased resting energy expenditure compared with obese controls (P <0.01). After adjustment for fat free mass, the PHP-1a group’s resting energy expenditure was 346.4 kcals/day less than obese controls (95% CI [−585.5 to −106.9], P <0.01). The thermogenic effect of food, expressed as percent increase in postprandial energy expenditure over resting energy expenditure, was lower in PHP-1a patients than obese controls but did not reach statistical significance (absolute reduction of 5.9%, 95% CI [−12.2% to 0.3%], P = 0.06). Conclusions Our data indicate that children with PHP-1a have decreased resting energy expenditure compared with obese controls and that may contribute to the development of obesity in these children. These patients may also have abnormal diet-induced thermogenesis in response to a high fat meal. Understanding the causes of obesity in PHP-1a may allow for targeted nutritional or pharmacologic treatments in the future. PMID:23229731

  6. Heat transfer mechanisms in pulsating heat-pipes with nanofluid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gonzalez, Miguel; Kelly, Brian; Hayashi, Yoshikazu; Kim, Yoon Jo

    2015-01-01

    In this study, the effect of silver nanofluid on a pulsating heat-pipe (PHP) thermal performance was experimentally investigated to figure out how nanofluid works with PHP. A closed loop PHP was built with 3 mm diameter tubes. Thermocouples and pressure transducers were installed for fluid and surface temperature and pressure measurements. The operating temperature of the PHP varied from 30-100 °C, with power rates of 61 W and 119 W. The fill ratio of 30%, 50%, and 70% were tested. The results showed that the evaporator heat transfer performance was degraded by the addition of nanoparticles due to increased viscosity at high power rate, while the positive effects of high thermal conductivity and enhanced nucleate boiling worked better at low power rate. In the condenser section, owing to the relatively high liquid content, nanofluid more effectively improved the heat transfer performance. However, since the PHP performance was dominantly affected by evaporator heat transfer performance, the overall benefit of enhanced condenser section performance was greatly limited. It was also observed that the poor heat transfer performance with nanofluid at the evaporator section led to lower operating pressure of PHP.

  7. Growth hormone deficiency in monozygotic twins with autosomal dominant pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib.

    PubMed

    Sano, Shinichiro; Iwata, Hiromi; Matsubara, Keiko; Fukami, Maki; Kagami, Masayo; Ogata, Tsutomu

    2015-01-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is associated with compromised signal transductions via PTH receptor (PTH-R) and other G-protein-coupled receptors including GHRH-R. To date, while GH deficiency (GHD) has been reported in multiple patients with PHP-Ia caused by mutations on the maternally expressed GNAS coding regions and in two patients with sporadic form of PHP-Ib accompanied by broad methylation defects of maternally derived GNAS differentially methylated regions (DMRs), it has not been identified in a patient with an autosomal dominant form of PHP-Ib (AD-PHP-Ib) accompanied by an STX16 microdeletion and an isolated loss of methylation (LOM) at exon A/B-DMR. We studied 5 4/12-year-old monozygotic twins with short stature (both -3.4 SD) and GHD (peak GH values, <6.0 μg/L after arginine and clonidine stimulations). Molecular studies revealed maternally derived STX16 microdeletions and isolated LOMs at exon A/B-DMR in the twins, confirming the diagnosis of AD-PHP-Ib. GNAS mutation was not identified, and neither mutation nor copy number variation was detected in GH1, POU1F1, PROP1, GHRHR, LHX3, LHX4, and HESX1 in the twins. The results, in conjunction with the previous finding that GNAS shows maternal expression in the pituitary, suggest that GHD of the twins is primarily ascribed to compromised GHRH-R signaling caused by AD-PTH-Ib. Thus, resistance to multiple hormones including GHRH should be considered in AD-PHP-Ib.

  8. There's An App For That: Planning Ahead for the Solar Eclipse in August 2017

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chizek Frouard, Malynda R.; Lesniak, Michael V.; Bell, Steve

    2017-01-01

    With the total solar eclipse of 2017 August 21 over the continental United States approaching, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) on-line Solar Eclipse Computer can now be accessed via an Android application, available on Google Play.Over the course of the eclipse, as viewed from a specific site, several events may be visible: the beginning and ending of the eclipse (first and fourth contacts), the beginning and ending of totality (second and third contacts), the moment of maximum eclipse, sunrise, or sunset. For each of these events, the USNO Solar Eclipse 2017 Android application reports the time, Sun's altitude and azimuth, and the event's position and vertex angles. The app also lists the duration of the total phase, the duration of the eclipse, the magnitude of the eclipse, and the percent of the Sun obscured for a particular eclipse site.All of the data available in the app comes from the flexible USNO Solar Eclipse Computer Application Programming Interface (API), which produces JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that can be incorporated into third-party Web sites or custom applications. Additional information is available in the on-line documentation (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php).For those who prefer using a traditional data input form, the local circumstances can still be requested at http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/SolarEclipses.php.In addition the 2017 August 21 Solar Eclipse Resource page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2017.php) consolidates all of the USNO resources for this event, including a Google Map view of the eclipse track designed by Her Majesty's Nautical Almanac Office (HMNAO).Looking further ahead, a 2024 April 8 Solar Eclipse Resource page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2024.php) is also available.

  9. a Webgis for the Knowledge and Conservation of the Historical Wall Structures of the 13TH-18TH Centuries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vacca, G.; Pili, D.; Fiorino, D. R.; Pintus, V.

    2017-05-01

    The presented work is part of the research project, titled "Tecniche murarie tradizionali: conoscenza per la conservazione ed il miglioramento prestazionale" (Traditional building techniques: from knowledge to conservation and performance improvement), with the purpose of studying the building techniques of the 13th-18th centuries in the Sardinia Region (Italy) for their knowledge, conservation, and promotion. The end purpose of the entire study is to improve the performance of the examined structures. In particular, the task of the authors within the research project was to build a WebGIS to manage the data collected during the examination and study phases. This infrastructure was entirely built using Open Source software. The work consisted of designing a database built in PostgreSQL and its spatial extension PostGIS, which allows to store and manage feature geometries and spatial data. The data input is performed via a form built in HTML and PHP. The HTML part is based on Bootstrap, an open tools library for websites and web applications. The implementation of this template used both PHP and Javascript code. The PHP code manages the reading and writing of data to the database, using embedded SQL queries. As of today, we surveyed and archived more than 300 buildings, belonging to three main macro categories: fortification architectures, religious architectures, residential architectures. The masonry samples investigated in relation to the construction techniques are more than 150. The database is published on the Internet as a WebGIS built using the Leaflet Javascript open libraries, which allows creating map sites with background maps and navigation, input and query tools. This too uses an interaction of HTML, Javascript, PHP and SQL code.

  10. Paternal uniparental isodisomy of the entire chromosome 20 as a molecular cause of pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib).

    PubMed

    Bastepe, Murat; Altug-Teber, Ozge; Agarwal, Chhavi; Oberfield, Sharon E; Bonin, Michael; Jüppner, Harald

    2011-03-01

    Pseudohypoparathyoridism type Ib (PHP-Ib) typically defines the presence of end-organ resistance to parathyroid hormone in the absence of Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy. Patients affected by this disorder present with imprinting defects in the complex GNAS locus. Microdeletions within STX16 or GNAS have been identified in familial cases with PHP-Ib, but the molecular cause of the GNAS imprinting defects in sporadic PHP-Ib cases remains poorly defined. We now report a case with sporadic PHP-Ib for whom a SNPlex analysis revealed loss of the maternal GNAS allele. Further analysis of the entire genome with a 100K SNP chip identified a paternal uniparental isodisomy affecting the entire chromosome 20 without evidence for another chromosomal abnormality. Our findings explain the observed GNAS methylation changes and the patient's hormone resistance, and furthermore suggest that chromosome 20 harbors, besides GNAS, no additional imprinted region that contributes to the clinical and laboratory phenotype. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Determination of the concentration of potential efflux pump inhibitors, pheophorbide a and pyropheophorbide a, in the feces of animals by fluorescence spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Barnes, Charles A; Rasmussen, Sharon L; Petrich, Jacob W; Rasmussen, Mark A

    2012-10-24

    Efflux pumps are vital bacterial components, and research has demonstrated that some plant compounds such as pheophorbide a (php) possess efflux pump inhibitor (EPI) activity. This study determined the quantity of php present in feces as an indicator of EPI activity. Feces were collected from different species of animals fed a variety of feeds. The chlorophyll metabolites php and pyropheophorbide a (pyp) were determined using fluorescense spectroscopy. The average concentrations [μg/g dry matter (DM) feces] of pyp/php in feces were as follows: guinea pig, 180; goat, 150; rabbit, 150; dairy cow, 120; feedlot cattle, 60; rat, <1; pig, <1; chicken, <1. These data indicate that animals consuming "green" diets will excrete feces with concentrations of php/pyp that exceed levels demonstrated to be inhibitory to bacterial efflux pumps (0.5 μg/mL). The natural presence EPIs in the gastrointestinal tract may modulate the activity of microbial efflux pumps and exert selection pressure upon resident microbial populations.

  12. MCTP is an ER-resident calcium sensor that stabilizes synaptic transmission and homeostatic plasticity

    PubMed Central

    Genç, Özgür; Dickman, Dion K; Ma, Wenpei; Tong, Amy; Fetter, Richard D; Davis, Graeme W

    2017-01-01

    Presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (PHP) controls synaptic transmission in organisms from Drosophila to human and is hypothesized to be relevant to the cause of human disease. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of PHP are just emerging and direct disease associations remain obscure. In a forward genetic screen for mutations that block PHP we identified mctp (Multiple C2 Domain Proteins with Two Transmembrane Regions). Here we show that MCTP localizes to the membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that elaborate throughout the soma, dendrites, axon and presynaptic terminal. Then, we demonstrate that MCTP functions downstream of presynaptic calcium influx with separable activities to stabilize baseline transmission, short-term release dynamics and PHP. Notably, PHP specifically requires the calcium coordinating residues in each of the three C2 domains of MCTP. Thus, we propose MCTP as a novel, ER-localized calcium sensor and a source of calcium-dependent feedback for the homeostatic stabilization of neurotransmission. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.22904.001 PMID:28485711

  13. The NH2-terminal php domain of the alpha subunit of the Escherichia coli replicase binds the epsilon proofreading subunit.

    PubMed

    Wieczorek, Anna; McHenry, Charles S

    2006-05-05

    The alpha subunit of the replicase of all bacteria contains a php domain, initially identified by its similarity to histidinol phosphatase but of otherwise unknown function (Aravind, L., and Koonin, E. V. (1998) Nucleic Acids Res. 26, 3746-3752). Deletion of 60 residues from the NH2 terminus of the alpha php domain destroys epsilon binding. The minimal 255-residue php domain, estimated by sequence alignment with homolog YcdX, is insufficient for epsilon binding. However, a 320-residue segment including sequences that immediately precede the polymerase domain binds epsilon with the same affinity as the 1160-residue full-length alpha subunit. A subset of mutations of a conserved acidic residue (Asp43 in Escherichia coli alpha) present in the php domain of all bacterial replicases resulted in defects in epsilon binding. Using sequence alignments, we show that the prototypical gram+ Pol C, which contains the polymerase and proofreading activities within the same polypeptide chain, has an epsilon-like sequence inserted in a surface loop near the center of the homologous YcdX protein. These findings suggest that the php domain serves as a platform to enable coordination of proofreading and polymerase activities during chromosomal replication.

  14. Endocrine profile and phenotype-(epi)genotype correlation in Spanish patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Fernández-Rebollo, Eduardo; Lecumberri, Beatriz; Gaztambide, Sonia; Martinez-Indart, Lorea; Perez de Nanclares, Guiomar; Castaño, Luis

    2013-05-01

    Recent advances in genetics and epigenetics have revealed an overlap between molecular and clinical features of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) subtypes, broadening the previous spectrum of PHP genotype-phenotype correlations and indicating limitations of the current classification of the disease. The aim of the study was to screen patients with clinical diagnoses of PHP type I or pseudo-PHP for underlying molecular defects and explore possible correlations between molecular findings and clinical features. We investigated the GNAS locus at the molecular level in 72 affected patients (46 women and 26 men) from 56 nonrelated families. Clinical data were obtained for 63 of these patients (38 women and 25 men). The molecular analysis showed that 35 patients carried structural mutations, 32 had loss of methylation, and 2 had a 2q37 deletion but did not reveal any (epi)mutation for 3 patients. Comparing these results and the clinical data, we observed that a younger age at diagnosis was associated with structural defects at the GNAS gene and epigenetic defects with a diagnosis later in life (9.19 ± 1.64 vs 24.57 ± 2.28 years, P < .0001). This first global review of PHP in Spain highlights the importance of a detailed clinical and genetic study of each patient and the integrated analysis of the findings from the two approaches. It may also help geneticists and clinicians to raise the suspicion of PHP earlier, reach more accurate diagnoses, and provide patients with PHP and their families with useful genetic information and counseling, thereby improving outcomes and quality of life.

  15. Epidemiology of biopsy-proven glomerulonephritis in Queensland adults.

    PubMed

    Jegatheesan, Dev; Nath, Karthik; Reyaldeen, Reza; Sivasuthan, Goutham; John, George T; Francis, Leo; Rajmokan, Mohana; Ranganathan, Dwarakanathan

    2016-01-01

    There is a paucity of data pertaining to the incidence of biopsy-proven glomerulonephritis (GN) in Australia. This retrospective study aims to review the data from all adult native renal biopsies performed in the state of Queensland from 2002 to 2011--comparing results with centres from across the world. Pathology reports of 3697 adult native kidney biopsies were reviewed, of which 2048 had GN diagnoses. Age, gender, clinical indication and histopathology findings were compared. The average age at biopsy was 48 ± 17 years. Male preponderance was noted overall (∼60%), with lupus nephritis being the only individual GN with female predilection. The average rate of biopsy was 12.04 per hundred thousand people per year (php/yr). Nephrotic and nephritic syndromes comprised approximately 75% of all clinical indications that lead to GN diagnoses. IgA nephropathy (1.41 php/yr) was the most common primary GN followed by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (1.02 php/yr) and crescentic GN (0.73 php/yr). Diabetic nephropathy (0.84 php/yr), lupus nephritis (0.69 php/yr) and amyloidosis (0.19 php/yr) were the most commonly identified secondary GN. IgA nephropathy is the predominant primary GN in Queensland, and nephrotic syndrome the most common indication for a renal biopsy. While crescentic GN incidence has significantly increased with time, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis incidence has not shown any trend. Incidence of GN overall appears to increase with age. The annual rate of biopsy in this study appears lower than previously published in an Australian population. © 2015 Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology.

  16. [Technical complications rates and plaque control of fixed dental prostheses in patients treated for periodontal disease].

    PubMed

    Xie, Yesi; Meng, Huanxin; Han, Jie; Pan, Shaoxia; Zhang, Li; Shi, Dong

    2016-02-01

    To compare the incidence of technical complications of implant-supported fixed dental prostheses in Chinese patients with a history of moderate or severe periodontitis and periodontally healthy patients(PHP) and analyze the effects of interproximal papillae patterns on food impaction and efficacy of plaque control. A total of 103 partially edentulous patients treated with implant-supported fixed dental prostheses between December 2009 and December 2012 for a minimum 1-year follow-up period were recruited from Department of Periodontology, Peking University, School and Hospital of Stomatology. Based on the initial periodontal examination, the participants were divided into three groups: 30 PHP, 36 moderate periodontally compromised patients(mPCP) and 37 severe periodontally compromised patients(sPCP). Implant survival/loss, technical complications, plaque index, papilla index, food impaction and degree of proximal contact tightness of each patient were assessed around the implants at follow-up. According to the implant papilla index, the implants were divided into two groups: the "filling" group with the mesial and distal aspects with papilla index=3 and the "no filling" group with at least one aspect with papilla index<3. Data on implant survival, technical complications were analyzed. Comparisons of the incidence of technical complications were performed between the patients with different periodontal conditions with chi-square or Fisher's exact test. The influences of the interproximal papillae loss on food impaction and efficacy of plaque control were estimated with chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. The total implant survival rate was 100%(162/162) for all three groups. Technical complications were as following: veneer fractures(1.9%, 3/162), abutment screw loosening(1.9%, 3/162), prosthetic screw loosening(3.1%, 5/162) and decementation(3.1%, 5/162) in all subjects. No implant/screw fracture was noted. The incidence of technical complications in sPCP, mPCP and PHP did not yield statistically significant differences(P>0.05). The proportion of the implant with the mesial and distal papilla index=3 in the sPCP was less than that in the PHP and mPCP. The interproximal papillae loss did not appear to affect the food impaction and the plaque index in all three groups(P>0.05). However, for the PHP, the accumulation of plaque at buccal aspect was more in the "no filling" group compared with the "filling" group (implant plaque index[M(Q)]: 1[1] vs 0[0]), and for the sPCP, the accumulation of plaque at lingual aspect was more in the "filling" group compared with the "no filling" group(implant plaque index[M(Q)]: 1[1] vs 0[1], (P<0.05). The patients with a history of severe periodontitis did not exhibit more technical problems compared with the periodontally healthy patients. The interproximal papillae loss did not show a negative impact on the plaque control and food impaction. However, for the sPCP, changing the morphology and the position of the interproximal contact point to reduce the interdental black triangle may lead to accumulation of plaque at lingual aspect. More attention should be placed on the morphology design of prosthesis, but not the papillae filling up the interproximal space.

  17. Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter (PreView PHP) for detecting choroidal neovascularization study.

    PubMed

    Alster, Yair; Bressler, Neil M; Bressler, Susan B; Brimacombe, Judith A; Crompton, R Michael; Duh, Yi-Jing; Gabel, Veit-Peter; Heier, Jeffrey S; Ip, Michael S; Loewenstein, Anat; Packo, Kirk H; Stur, Michael; Toaff, Techiya

    2005-10-01

    To assess the ability of the Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter (PreView PHP; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) to detect recent-onset choroidal neovascularization (CNV) resulting from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and to differentiate it from an intermediate stage of AMD. Prospective, comparative, concurrent, nonrandomized, multicenter study. Eligible participants' study eyes had a corrected visual acuity of 20/160 or better and either untreated CNV from AMD diagnosed within the last 60 days or an intermediate stage of AMD. After obtaining consent, visual acuity with habitual correction, masked PHP testing, stereoscopic color fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography were performed. Photographs and angiograms were evaluated by graders masked to diagnosis and PHP results. The reading center's diagnosis determined if the patient was categorized as having intermediate AMD or neovascular AMD. A successful study outcome was defined a priori as a sensitivity of at least 80% and a specificity of at least 80%. Of 185 patients who gave consent to be enrolled, 11 (6%) had PHP results judged to be unreliable. An additional 52 were not included because they did not meet all eligibility criteria. Of the remaining 122 patients, 57 had an intermediate stage of AMD and 65 had neovascular AMD. The sensitivity to detect newly diagnosed CNV using PHP testing was 82% (95% confidence interval [CI], 70%-90%). The specificity to differentiate newly diagnosed CNV from the intermediate stage of AMD using PHP testing was 88% (95% CI, 76%-95%). Preferential Hyperacuity Perimeter testing can detect recent-onset CNV resulting from AMD and can differentiate it from an intermediate stage of AMD with high sensitivity and specificity. These data suggest that monitoring with PHP should detect most cases of CNV of recent onset with few false-positive results at a stage when treatment usually would be beneficial. Thus, this monitoring should be considered in the management of the intermediate stage of AMD.

  18. Standard Port-Visit Cost Forecasting Model for U.S. Navy Husbanding Contracts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-12-01

    Protocol (HTTP) server.35 2. MySQL . An open-source database.36 3. PHP . A common scripting language used for Web development.37 E. IMPLEMENTATION OF...Inc. (2009). MySQL Community Server (Version 5.1) [Software]. Available from http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/ 37 The PHP Group (2009). PHP (Version...Logistics Services MySQL My Structured Query Language NAVSUP Navy Supply Systems Command NC Non-Contract Items NPS Naval Postgraduate

  19. Learning Asset Technology Integration Support Tool Design Document

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-05-11

    language known as Hypertext Preprocessor ( PHP ) and by MySQL – a relational database management system that can also be used for content management. It...Requirements The LATIST tool will be implemented utilizing a WordPress platform with MySQL as the database. Also the LATIST system must effectively work... MySQL . When designing the LATIST system there are several considerations which must be accounted for in the working prototype. These include: • DAU

  20. Effect of treatment with depot somatostatin analogue octreotide on primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) patients.

    PubMed

    Faggiano, Antongiulio; Tavares, Lidice Brandao; Tauchmanova, Libuse; Milone, Francesco; Mansueto, Gelsomina; Ramundo, Valeria; De Caro, Maria Laura Del Basso; Lombardi, Gaetano; De Rosa, Gaetano; Colao, Annamaria

    2008-11-01

    In patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), expression of somatostatin receptor (SST) in parathyroid adenomas and effectiveness of therapy with somatostatin analogues on primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) have been scarcely investigated. To evaluate the effects of depot long acting octreotide (OCT-LAR) in patients with MEN1-related PHP. Eight patients with a genetically confirmed MEN1, presenting both PHP and duodeno-pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NET), were enrolled. The initial treatment was OCT-LAR 30 mg every 4 weeks. This therapy was established to stabilize the duodeno-pancreatic NET before to perform parathyroidectomy for PHP. Before OCT-LAR therapy, a SST scintigraphy was performed in all patients. SST subtype 2A immunohistochemistry was performed on parathyroid tumour samples from three patients undergone parathyroidectomy after OCT-LAR therapy. Serum concentrations of PTH, calcium and phosphorus as well as the 24-h urine calcium : creatinine ratio and the renal threshold phosphate concentration were evaluated before and after OCT-LAR. After OCT-LAR therapy, hypercalcaemia and hypercalciuria normalized in 75% and 62.5% of patients, respectively, and serum phosphorus and renal threshold phosphate significantly increased. Serum PTH concentrations significantly decreased in all patients and normalized in two of them. SST subtype 2A immunostaining was found in all parathyroid adenomas investigated, while SST scintigraphy showed a positive parathyroid tumour uptake in three of eight patients (37.5%). Six months of OCT-LAR therapy controlled hypercalcaemia and hypercalciuria in two-thirds of patients with MEN1-related PHP. Direct OCT-LAR effects mediated by binding to SST expression on parathyroid tumour cells are likely the main mechanism to explain the activity of this compound on calcium and phosphorus abnormalities in MEN1 PHP.

  1. Phene Plate (PhP) biochemical fingerprinting. A screening method for epidemiological typing of enterococcal isolates.

    PubMed

    Saeedi, B; Tärnberg, M; Gill, H; Hällgren, A; Jonasson, J; Nilsson, L E; Isaksson, B; Kühn, I; Hanberger, H

    2005-09-01

    Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) is currently considered the gold standard for genotyping of enterococci. However, PFGE is both expensive and time-consuming. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the PhP system can be used as a reliable clinical screening method for detection of genetically related isolates of enterococci. If so, it should be possible to minimize the number of isolates subjected to PFGE typing, which would save time and money. Ninety-nine clinical enterococcal isolates were analysed by PhP (similarity levels 0.90-0.975) and PFGE (similarity levels < or =3 and < or =6 bands) and all possible pairs of isolates were cross-classified as matched or mismatched. We found that the probability that a pair of isolates (A and B) belonging to the same type according to PhP also belong to the same cluster according to PFGE, i.e. p(A(PFGE)=B(PFGE) * A(PhP)=B(PhP)), and the probability that a pair of isolates of different types according to PhP also belong to different clusters according to PFGE, i.e. p(A(PFGE) not equalB(PFGE) * A(PhP) not equalB(PhP)), was relatively high for E. faecalis (0.86 and 0.96, respectively), but was lower for E. faecium (0.51 and 0.77, respectively). The concordance which shows the probability that PhP and PFGE agree on match or mismatch was 86%-93% for E. faecalis and 54%-66% for E. faecium, which indicates that the PhP method may be useful for epidemiological typing of E. faecalis in the current settings but not for E. faecium.

  2. Evaluation of a pyridoxylated hemoglobin polyoxyethylene conjugate solution as a perfusate for small intestine preservation.

    PubMed

    Liu, H; Agishi, T; Kawai, T; Hayashi, T; Fujita, S; Fuchinoue, S; Takahashi, K; Teraoka, S; Ota, K

    1992-01-01

    A new type of artificial blood, pyridoxylated hemoglobin-polyoxyethylene conjugate (PHP) solution, (developed by PHP research group of the department of health and welfare of Japan, and produced by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Tokyo) as an oxygen-carrying component, has been recently devised using hemoglobin obtained from hemolyzed human erythrocytes. Recently, the studies using this solution as a preservation solution were performed in some instances. To examine the mechanism of improved viability using this solution as a preservation solution, we developed a model of orthotopic small intestine transplantation (OIT) in the rat. As a baseline study, we compared parameters of viability of the grafts preserved in Collins and UW solution to those preserved in PHP solution including a survival rate, a serum level total protein and albumin, and a change in body weight after transplantation. In our study, the simple hypothermia storage together with intestinal perfusion preservation with PHP solution was performed. Animals were divided into 6, 12, and 24 hr preservation groups. All of the rats survived after 6 hr preservation following transplantation. However, in 12 hr storage, five of six rats in PHP solution preservation survived and recovery in body weight after grafting was better than those with Collins and UW solution. We conclude that the PHP solution is, therefore, considered to possibly be a more suitable perfusate for small intestine preservation than Collins and UW solution.

  3. Better Targeting, Better Efficiency for Wide-Scale Neuronal Transduction with the Synapsin Promoter and AAV-PHP.B

    PubMed Central

    Jackson, Kasey L.; Dayton, Robert D.; Deverman, Benjamin E.; Klein, Ronald L.

    2016-01-01

    Widespread genetic modification of cells in the central nervous system (CNS) with a viral vector has become possible and increasingly more efficient. We previously applied an AAV9 vector with the cytomegalovirus/chicken beta-actin (CBA) hybrid promoter and achieved wide-scale CNS transduction in neonatal and adult rats. However, this method transduces a variety of tissues in addition to the CNS. Thus we studied intravenous AAV9 gene transfer with a synapsin promoter to better target the neurons. We noted in systematic comparisons that the synapsin promoter drives lower level expression than does the CBA promoter. The engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.B serotype was compared with AAV9, and AAV-PHP.B did enhance the efficiency of expression. Combining the synapsin promoter with AAV-PHP.B could therefore be advantageous in terms of combining two refinements of targeting and efficiency. Wide-scale expression was used to model a disease with widespread pathology. Vectors encoding the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-related protein transactive response DNA-binding protein, 43 kDa (TDP-43) with the synapsin promoter and AAV-PHP.B were used for efficient CNS-targeted TDP-43 expression. Intracerebroventricular injections were also explored to limit TDP-43 expression to the CNS. The neuron-selective promoter and the AAV-PHP.B enhanced gene transfer and ALS disease modeling in adult rats. PMID:27867348

  4. Better Targeting, Better Efficiency for Wide-Scale Neuronal Transduction with the Synapsin Promoter and AAV-PHP.B.

    PubMed

    Jackson, Kasey L; Dayton, Robert D; Deverman, Benjamin E; Klein, Ronald L

    2016-01-01

    Widespread genetic modification of cells in the central nervous system (CNS) with a viral vector has become possible and increasingly more efficient. We previously applied an AAV9 vector with the cytomegalovirus/chicken beta-actin (CBA) hybrid promoter and achieved wide-scale CNS transduction in neonatal and adult rats. However, this method transduces a variety of tissues in addition to the CNS. Thus we studied intravenous AAV9 gene transfer with a synapsin promoter to better target the neurons. We noted in systematic comparisons that the synapsin promoter drives lower level expression than does the CBA promoter. The engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.B serotype was compared with AAV9, and AAV-PHP.B did enhance the efficiency of expression. Combining the synapsin promoter with AAV-PHP.B could therefore be advantageous in terms of combining two refinements of targeting and efficiency. Wide-scale expression was used to model a disease with widespread pathology. Vectors encoding the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-related protein transactive response DNA-binding protein, 43 kDa (TDP-43) with the synapsin promoter and AAV-PHP.B were used for efficient CNS-targeted TDP-43 expression. Intracerebroventricular injections were also explored to limit TDP-43 expression to the CNS. The neuron-selective promoter and the AAV-PHP.B enhanced gene transfer and ALS disease modeling in adult rats.

  5. Design and Operation of a Cryogenic Nitrogen Pulsating Heat Pipe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Diego Fonseca, Luis; Miller, Franklin; Pfotenhauer, John

    2015-12-01

    We report the design, experimental setup and successful test results using an innovative passive cooling system called a “Pulsating Heat Pipe” (PHP) operating at temperatures ranging from 77 K to 80 K and using nitrogen as the working fluid. PHPs, which transfer heat by two phase flow mechanisms through a closed loop tubing have the advantage that no electrical pumps are needed to drive the fluid flow. In addition, PHPs have an advantage over copper straps and thermal conductors since they are lighter in weight, exhibit lower temperature gradients and have higher heat transfer rates. PHPs consist of an evaporator section, thermally anchored to a solid, where heat is received at the saturation temperature where the liquid portion of the two-phase flow evaporates, and a condenser where heat is rejected at the saturation temperature where the vapor is condensed. The condenser section in our experiment has been thermally interfaced to a CT cryocooler from SunPower that has a cooling capacity of 10 W at 77 K. Alternating regions of liquid slugs and small vapor plugs fill the capillary tubing, with the vapor regions contracting in the condenser section and expanding in the evaporator section due to an electric heater that will generate heat loads up to 10 W. This volumetric expansion and contraction provides the oscillatory flow of the fluid throughout the capillary tubing thereby transferring heat from one end to the other. The thermal performance and temperature characteristics of the PHP will be correlated as a function of average condenser temperature, PHP fill liquid ratio, and evaporator heat load. The experimental data show that the heat transfer between the evaporator and condenser sections can produce an effective thermal conductivity up to 35000 W/m-K at a 3.5 W heat load.

  6. Follow-up Findings in a Turkish Girl with Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type Ia Caused by a Novel Heterozygous Mutation in the GNAS Gene.

    PubMed

    Şahin, Sezgin; Hiort, Olaf; Thiele, Susanne; Evliyaoğlu, Olcay; Tüysüz, Beyhan

    2017-03-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP-Ia) is characterized by multihormone resistance and an Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) phenotype. It is caused by heterozygous mutations in GNAS gene. Clinical and biochemical findings of a female PHP-Ia patient were evaluated from age of diagnosis (6.5 years) to 14.5 years of age. The patient had short stature, brachydactyly, and subcutaneous heterotopic ossifications. Serum calcium and phosphorus levels were normal, but parathyroid hormone levels were high. Based on the typical clinical findings of AHO phenotype and biochemical findings, she was diagnosed as having PHP-Ia. A novel heterozygous mutation (c.128T>C) was found in the GNAS gene. Follow-up examinations revealed resistance to thyroid-stimulating hormone and a bioinactive growth hormone. Clinicians should take into consideration PHP-Ia in patients referred with short stature, and patients with an AHO phenotype must be further evaluated for hormone resistance, GNAS gene mutation, Gsα activity. To our knowledge, this is the first case report describing bioinactive growth hormone in PHP-Ia.

  7. Overexpression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Liang; Chen, Ruyi; Dong, Zhe; Li, Xin

    2013-01-01

    Organophosphates (OPs) are extremely toxic compounds that are used as insecticides or even as chemical warfare agents. Phosphotriesterases (PHPs) are responsible for the detoxification of OPs by catalysing their degradation. Almost 100 PHP structures have been solved to date, yet the crystal structure of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (mPHP) remains unavailable. This study reports the first crystallization of mPHP. The crystal belonged to space group C222(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 68.03, b = 149.60, c = 74.23 Å, α = β = γ = 90°. An analytical ultracentrifugation experiment suggested that mPHP exists as a dimer in solution, even though one molecule is calculated to be present in the asymmetric unit according to the structural data.

  8. Overexpression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Liang; Chen, Ruyi; Dong, Zhe; Li, Xin

    2013-01-01

    Organophosphates (OPs) are extremely toxic compounds that are used as insecticides or even as chemical warfare agents. Phosphotriesterases (PHPs) are responsible for the detoxification of OPs by catalysing their degradation. Almost 100 PHP structures have been solved to date, yet the crystal structure of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (mPHP) remains unavailable. This study reports the first crystallization of mPHP. The crystal belonged to space group C2221, with unit-cell parameters a = 68.03, b = 149.60, c = 74.23 Å, α = β = γ = 90°. An analytical ultracentrifugation experiment suggested that mPHP exists as a dimer in solution, even though one molecule is calculated to be present in the asymmetric unit according to the structural data. PMID:23295488

  9. A web accessible resource for investigating cassava phenomics and genomics information: BIOGEN BASE

    PubMed Central

    Jayakodi, Murukarthick; selvan, Sreedevi Ghokhilamani; Natesan, Senthil; Muthurajan, Raveendran; Duraisamy, Raghu; Ramineni, Jana Jeevan; Rathinasamy, Sakthi Ambothi; Karuppusamy, Nageswari; Lakshmanan, Pugalenthi; Chokkappan, Mohan

    2011-01-01

    The goal of our research is to establish a unique portal to bring out the potential outcome of the research in the Casssava crop. The Biogen base for cassava clearly brings out the variations of different traits of the germplasms, maintained at the Tapioca and Castor Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Phenotypic and genotypic variations of the accessions are clearly depicted, for the users to browse and interpret the variations using the microsatellite markers. Database (BIOGEN BASE ‐ CASSAVA) is designed using PHP and MySQL and is equipped with extensive search options. It is more user-friendly and made publicly available, to improve the research and development of cassava by making a wealth of genetics and genomics data available through open, common, and worldwide forum for all individuals interested in the field. Availability The database is available for free at http://www.tnaugenomics.com/biogenbase/casava.php PMID:21904428

  10. A web accessible resource for investigating cassava phenomics and genomics information: BIOGEN BASE.

    PubMed

    Jayakodi, Murukarthick; Selvan, Sreedevi Ghokhilamani; Natesan, Senthil; Muthurajan, Raveendran; Duraisamy, Raghu; Ramineni, Jana Jeevan; Rathinasamy, Sakthi Ambothi; Karuppusamy, Nageswari; Lakshmanan, Pugalenthi; Chokkappan, Mohan

    2011-01-01

    The goal of our research is to establish a unique portal to bring out the potential outcome of the research in the Casssava crop. The Biogen base for cassava clearly brings out the variations of different traits of the germplasms, maintained at the Tapioca and Castor Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Phenotypic and genotypic variations of the accessions are clearly depicted, for the users to browse and interpret the variations using the microsatellite markers. Database (BIOGEN BASE - CASSAVA) is designed using PHP and MySQL and is equipped with extensive search options. It is more user-friendly and made publicly available, to improve the research and development of cassava by making a wealth of genetics and genomics data available through open, common, and worldwide forum for all individuals interested in the field. The database is available for free at http://www.tnaugenomics.com/biogenbase/casava.php.

  11. Pseudohypoparathyroidism with diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism.

    PubMed

    Saikia, Bedangshu; Arora, Sunaina; Puliyel, Jacob M

    2012-12-01

    We report a 12-year-old child with pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) whose mother had pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism. The child had low serum calcium, high phosphorous and high parathormone (PTH) levels. PHP occurs due to a defect in the guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein). She also had hypothyroidism which is known to utilize the G protein pathway. She developed T 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) while under follow-up. This is arguably the first time T1DM has been reported associated with PHP.

  12. Pulsating Heat pipe Only for Space (PHOS): results of the REXUS 18 sounding rocket campaign

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Creatini, F.; Guidi, G. M.; Belfi, F.; Cicero, G.; Fioriti, D.; Di Prizio, D.; Piacquadio, S.; Becatti, G.; Orlandini, G.; Frigerio, A.; Fontanesi, S.; Nannipieri, P.; Rognini, M.; Morganti, N.; Filippeschi, S.; Di Marco, P.; Fanucci, L.; Baronti, F.; Mameli, M.; Manzoni, M.; Marengo, M.

    2015-11-01

    Two Closed Loop Pulsating Heat Pipes (CLPHPs) are tested on board REXUS 18 sounding rocket in order to obtain data over a relatively long microgravity period (approximately 90 s). The CLPHPs are partially filled with FC-72 and have, respectively, an inner tube diameter larger (3 mm) and slightly smaller (1.6 mm) than the critical diameter evaluated in static Earth gravity conditions. On ground, the small diameter CLPHP effectively works as a Pulsating Heat Pipe (PHP): the characteristic slug and plug flow pattern forms inside the tube and the heat exchange is triggered by thermally driven self-sustained oscillations of the working fluid. On the other hand, the large diameter CLPHP works as a two- phase thermosyphon in vertical position and doesn't work in horizontal position: in this particular condition, the working fluid stratifies within the device as the surface tension force is no longer able to balance buoyancy. Then, the idea to test the CLPHPs in reduced gravity conditions: as the gravity reduces the buoyancy forces becomes less intense and it is possible to recreate the typical PHP flow pattern also for larger inner tube diameters. This allows to increase the heat transfer rate and, consequently, to decrease the overall thermal resistance. Even though it was not possible to experience low gravity conditions due to a failure in the yoyo de-spin system, the thermal response to the peculiar acceleration field (hyper-gravity) experienced on board are thoroughly described.

  13. Allostatic load: single parents, stress-related health issues, and social care.

    PubMed

    Johner, Randy L

    2007-05-01

    This article explores the possible relationships between allostatic load (AL) and stress-related health issues in the low-income single-parent population, using both a population health perspective (PHP) and a biological framework. A PHP identifies associations among such factors as gender, income, employment, and social support and their potential effect on health outcomes. A PHP also recognizes physiological and pathological manifestations of the body such as stress (mental or somatic) and individual biological parameters (for example, glucose levels) as health determinants. AL uses an aggregate score of individual biological parameters as a health measure that is exacerbated through repetitive movement of physiologic systems under stress. The social work profession should incorporate knowledge of both PHP and AL into its theory and practice domains for effective care of vulnerable populations such as single-parent families.

  14. Experimental study on heat transfer performance of pulsating heat pipe with refrigerants

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xingyu; Jia, Li

    2016-10-01

    The effects of different refrigerants on heat transfer performance of pulsating heat pipe (PHP) are investigated experimentally. The working temperature of pulsating heat pipe is kept in the range of 20°C-50°C. The startup time of the pulsating heat pipe with refrigerants can be shorter than 4 min, when heating power is in the range of 10W?100W. The startup time decreases with heating power. Thermal resistances of PHP with filling ratio 20.55% were obviously larger than those with other filling ratios. Thermal resistance of the PHP with R134a is much smaller than that with R404A and R600a. It indicates that the heat transfer ability of R134a is better. In addition, a correlation to predict thermal resistance of PHP with refrigerants was suggested.

  15. Generic HTML Form Processor: A versatile PHP script to save web-collected data into a MySQL database.

    PubMed

    Göritz, Anja S; Birnbaum, Michael H

    2005-11-01

    The customizable PHP script Generic HTML Form Processor is intended to assist researchers and students in quickly setting up surveys and experiments that can be administered via the Web. This script relieves researchers from the burdens of writing new CGI scripts and building databases for each Web study. Generic HTML Form Processor processes any syntactically correct HTML forminput and saves it into a dynamically created open-source database. We describe five modes for usage of the script that allow increasing functionality but require increasing levels of knowledge of PHP and Web servers: The first two modes require no previous knowledge, and the fifth requires PHP programming expertise. Use of Generic HTML Form Processor is free for academic purposes, and its Web address is www.goeritz.net/brmic.

  16. Biogenic platinum and palladium nanoparticles as new catalysts for the removal of pharmaceutical compounds.

    PubMed

    Martins, Mónica; Mourato, Cláudia; Sanches, Sandra; Noronha, João Paulo; Crespo, M T Barreto; Pereira, Inês A C

    2017-01-01

    Pharmaceutical products (PhP) are one of the most alarming emergent pollutants in the environment. Therefore, it is of extreme importance to investigate efficient PhP removal processes. Biologic synthesis of platinum nanoparticles (Bio-Pt) has been reported, but their catalytic activity was never investigated. In this work, we explored the potential of cell-supported platinum (Bio-Pt) and palladium (Bio-Pd) nanoparticles synthesized with Desulfovibrio vulgaris as biocatalysts for removal of four PhP: ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, ibuprofen and 17β-estradiol. The catalytic activity of the biological nanoparticles was compared with the PhP removal efficiency of D. vulgaris whole-cells. In contrast with Bio-Pd, Bio-Pt has a high catalytic activity in PhP removal, with 94, 85 and 70% removal of 17β-estradiol, sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin, respectively. In addition, the estrogenic activity of 17β-estradiol was strongly reduced after the reaction with Bio-Pt, showing that this biocatalyst produces less toxic effluents. Bio-Pt or Bio-Pd did not act on ibuprofen, but this could be completely removed by D. vulgaris whole-cells, demonstrating that sulfate-reducing bacteria are among the microorganisms capable of biotransformation of ibuprofen in anaerobic environments. This study demonstrates for the first time that Bio-Pt has a high catalytic activity, and is a promising catalyst to be used in water treatment processes for the removal of antibiotics and endocrine disrupting compounds, the most problematic PhP. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Widespread transduction of astrocytes and neurons in the mouse central nervous system after systemic delivery of a self-complementary AAV-PHP.B vector.

    PubMed

    Rincon, Melvin Y; de Vin, Filip; Duqué, Sandra I; Fripont, Shelly; Castaldo, Stephanie A; Bouhuijzen-Wenger, Jessica; Holt, Matthew G

    2018-04-01

    Until recently, adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) was considered the AAV serotype most effective in crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and transducing cells of the central nervous system (CNS), following systemic injection. However, a newly engineered capsid, AAV-PHP.B, is reported to cross the BBB at even higher efficiency. We investigated how much we could boost CNS transgene expression by using AAV-PHP.B carrying a self-complementary (sc) genome. To allow comparison, 6 weeks old C57BL/6 mice received intravenous injections of scAAV2/9-GFP or scAAV2/PHP.B-GFP at equivalent doses. Three weeks postinjection, transgene expression was assessed in brain and spinal cord. We consistently observed more widespread CNS transduction and higher levels of transgene expression when using the scAAV2/PHP.B-GFP vector. In particular, we observed an unprecedented level of astrocyte transduction in the cortex, when using a ubiquitous CBA promoter. In comparison, neuronal transduction was much lower than previously reported. However, strong neuronal expression (including spinal motor neurons) was observed when the human synapsin promoter was used. These findings constitute the first reported use of an AAV-PHP.B capsid, encapsulating a scAAV genome, for gene transfer in adult mice. Our results underscore the potential of this AAV construct as a platform for safer and more efficacious gene therapy vectors for the CNS.

  18. Characterization of DNA polymerase X from Thermus thermophilus HB8 reveals the POLXc and PHP domains are both required for 3'-5' exonuclease activity.

    PubMed

    Nakane, Shuhei; Nakagawa, Noriko; Kuramitsu, Seiki; Masui, Ryoji

    2009-04-01

    The X-family DNA polymerases (PolXs) comprise a highly conserved DNA polymerase family found in all kingdoms. Mammalian PolXs are known to be involved in several DNA-processing pathways including repair, but the cellular functions of bacterial PolXs are less known. Many bacterial PolXs have a polymerase and histidinol phosphatase (PHP) domain at their C-termini in addition to a PolX core (POLXc) domain, and possess 3'-5' exonuclease activity. Although both domains are highly conserved in bacteria, their molecular functions, especially for a PHP domain, are unknown. We found Thermus thermophilus HB8 PolX (ttPolX) has Mg(2+)/Mn(2+)-dependent DNA/RNA polymerase, Mn(2+)-dependent 3'-5' exonuclease and DNA-binding activities. We identified the domains of ttPolX by limited proteolysis and characterized their biochemical activities. The POLXc domain was responsible for the polymerase and DNA-binding activities but exonuclease activity was not detected for either domain. However, the POLXc and PHP domains interacted with each other and a mixture of the two domains had Mn(2+)-dependent 3'-5' exonuclease activity. Moreover, site-directed mutagenesis revealed catalytically important residues in the PHP domain for the 3'-5' exonuclease activity. Our findings provide a molecular insight into the functional domain organization of bacterial PolXs, especially the requirement of the PHP domain for 3'-5' exonuclease activity.

  19. [Attitudes of physicians and nurses towards health prevention and promotion activities in Primary Care].

    PubMed

    Ramos-Morcillo, Antonio Jesús; Ruzafa-Martínez, María; Fernández-Salazar, Serafín; del-Pino-Casado, Rafael; Armero Barranco, David

    2014-11-01

    To determine the attitudes of physicians and registered nurses in the Andalusian Public Health System towards preventive and health promotion (PHP) interventions in the context of Primary Health Care and the relationship with occupational variables and self-reported competence in PHP. Multicenter, observational, descriptive study. Primary Health Care (PHC), Andalusia, Spain. A total of 282 professionals (physicians and nurses) from 22 Healthcare centers of the Andalusian public health system and who participated in the validation of CAPPAP were included. The attitude of physicians and registered nurses towards PHP activities consisted of five dimensions: improvements necessary, perception of peers attitude, importance, obstacles, and improvement opportunities. The validated CAPPAP questionnaire was used. Occupational variables and questions about self-reported competence in PHP were also included. All dimensions of CAPPAP exceeded the midpoint of the scale (2.5), with their values varying between 3.06 (SD: 0.76) in "improvement necessary", and 4.39 (SD: 0.49) in "importance". The self-declared social, occupational, and competences variables have a statistically significant relationship with the dimensions of the attitude of the professionals except: job experience in PHC, training and implementation of scheduled PHP activities. The attitudes of physicians and registered nurses towards PHP activities are acceptable, and work must be done to sustain it. Healthcare organizations should implement interventions adapted to different professional profiles. They should also increase activities to improve professional skills in order to provide the appropriate care. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  20. phpMs: A PHP-Based Mass Spectrometry Utilities Library.

    PubMed

    Collins, Andrew; Jones, Andrew R

    2018-03-02

    The recent establishment of cloud computing, high-throughput networking, and more versatile web standards and browsers has led to a renewed interest in web-based applications. While traditionally big data has been the domain of optimized desktop and server applications, it is now possible to store vast amounts of data and perform the necessary calculations offsite in cloud storage and computing providers, with the results visualized in a high-quality cross-platform interface via a web browser. There are number of emerging platforms for cloud-based mass spectrometry data analysis; however, there is limited pre-existing code accessible to web developers, especially for those that are constrained to a shared hosting environment where Java and C applications are often forbidden from use by the hosting provider. To remedy this, we provide an open-source mass spectrometry library for one of the most commonly used web development languages, PHP. Our new library, phpMs, provides objects for storing and manipulating spectra and identification data as well as utilities for file reading, file writing, calculations, peptide fragmentation, and protein digestion as well as a software interface for controlling search engines. We provide a working demonstration of some of the capabilities at http://pgb.liv.ac.uk/phpMs .

  1. Diagnostic accuracy of the Amsler grid and the preferential hyperacuity perimetry in the screening of patients with age-related macular degeneration: systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Faes, L; Bodmer, N S; Bachmann, L M; Thiel, M A; Schmid, M K

    2014-07-01

    To clarify the screening potential of the Amsler grid and preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP) in detecting or ruling out wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Medline, Scopus and Web of Science (by citation of reference) were searched. Checking of reference lists of review articles and of included articles complemented electronic searches. Papers were selected, assessed, and extracted in duplicate. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Twelve included studies enrolled 903 patients and allowed constructing 27 two-by-two tables. Twelve tables reported on the Amsler grid and its modifications, twelve tables reported on the PHP, one table assessed the MCPT and two tables assessed the M-charts. All but two studies had a case-control design. The pooled sensitivity of studies assessing the Amsler grid was 0.78 (95% confidence intervals; 0.64-0.87), and the pooled specificity was 0.97 (95% confidence intervals; 0.91-0.99). The corresponding positive and negative likelihood ratios were 23.1 (95% confidence intervals; 8.4-64.0) and 0.23 (95% confidence intervals; 0.14-0.39), respectively. The pooled sensitivity of studies assessing the PHP was 0.85 (95% confidence intervals; 0.80-0.89), and specificity was 0.87 (95% confidence intervals; 0.82-0.91). The corresponding positive and negative likelihood ratios were 6.7 (95% confidence intervals; 4.6-9.8) and 0.17 (95% confidence intervals; 0.13-0.23). No pooling was possible for MCPT and M-charts. Results from small preliminary studies show promising test performance characteristics both for the Amsler grid and PHP to rule out wet AMD in the screening setting. To what extent these findings can be transferred to a real clinic practice still needs to be established.

  2. High-resolution Imaging of the Philippine Sea Plate subducting beneath Central Japan

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Padhy, S.; Furumura, T.

    2016-12-01

    Thermal models predict that the oceanic crust of the young (<20 Ma) and warmer Philippine-sea plate (PHP) is more prone to melting. Deriving a high-resolution image of the PHP, including slab melting and other features of the subduction zone, is a key to understand the basics of earthquake occurrence and origin of magma in complex subduction zone like central Japan, where both the PHP and Pacific (PAC) Plates subduct. To this purpose, we analyzed high-resolution waveforms of moderate sized (M 4-6), intermediate-to-deep (>150 km) PAC earthquakes occurring in central Japan and conducted numerical simulation to derive a fine-scale PHP model, which is not constrained in earlier studies. Observations show spindle-shaped seismograms with strong converted phases and extended coda with very slow decay from a group of PAC events occurring in northern part of central Japan and recorded by high-sensitivity seismograph network (Hi-net) stations in the region. We investigate the mechanism of propagation of these anomalous waveforms using the finite difference method (FDM) simulation of wave propagation through the subduction zone. We examine the effects on waveform changes of major subduction zone features, such as the melting of oceanic crust in PHP, serpentinized mantle wedge, hydrated layer on the PAC due to slab dehydration, and anomaly in upper mantle between the PAC and PHP. Simulation results show that the waveform anomaly is primarily explained by strong scattering and absorption of high-frequency energy by the low-velocity anomalous mantle structure, with a strong coda excitation yielding spindle-shaped waveforms. The data are secondarily explained by melting of PHP in the basaltic crust. The location of the mantle anomaly is tightly constrained by the observation and evidence of PAC thinning in the region; these localized low-velocity structures aid in ascending the slab-derived fluids around the slab thinning. We expect that the results of this study will enhance our present understanding on the mechanism of intermediate to deep earthquakes in the region.

  3. A Large Inversion Involving GNAS Exon A/B and All Exons Encoding Gsα Is Associated With Autosomal Dominant Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type Ib (PHP1B).

    PubMed

    Grigelioniene, Giedre; Nevalainen, Pasi I; Reyes, Monica; Thiele, Susanne; Tafaj, Olta; Molinaro, Angelo; Takatani, Rieko; Ala-Houhala, Marja; Nilsson, Daniel; Eisfeldt, Jesper; Lindstrand, Anna; Kottler, Marie-Laure; Mäkitie, Outi; Jüppner, Harald

    2017-04-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP1B) is characterized primarily by resistance to parathyroid hormone (PTH) and thus hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia, in most cases without evidence for Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO). PHP1B is associated with epigenetic changes at one or several differentially-methylated regions (DMRs) within GNAS, which encodes the α-subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gsα) and splice variants thereof. Heterozygous, maternally inherited STX16 or GNAS deletions leading to isolated loss-of-methylation (LOM) at exon A/B alone or at all maternal DMRs are the cause of autosomal dominant PHP1B (AD-PHP1B). In this study, we analyzed three affected individuals, the female proband and her two sons. All three revealed isolated LOM at GNAS exon A/B, whereas the proband's healthy maternal grandmother and uncle showed normal methylation at this locus. Haplotype analysis was consistent with linkage to the STX16/GNAS region, yet no deletion could be identified. Whole-genome sequencing of one of the patients revealed a large heterozygous inversion (1,882,433 bp). The centromeric breakpoint of the inversion is located 7,225 bp downstream of GNAS exon XL, but its DMR showed no methylation abnormality, raising the possibility that the inversion disrupts a regulatory element required only for establishing or maintaining exon A/B methylation. Because our three patients presented phenotypes consistent with PHP1B, and not with PHP1A, the Gsα promoter is probably unaffected by the inversion. Our findings expand the spectrum of genetic mutations that lead to LOM at exon A/B alone and thus biallelic expression of the transcript derived from this alternative first GNAS exon. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

  4. Synapse-specific and compartmentalized expression of presynaptic homeostatic potentiation

    PubMed Central

    Li, Xiling; Goel, Pragya; Chen, Catherine; Angajala, Varun; Chen, Xun

    2018-01-01

    Postsynaptic compartments can be specifically modulated during various forms of synaptic plasticity, but it is unclear whether this precision is shared at presynaptic terminals. Presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (PHP) stabilizes neurotransmission at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction, where a retrograde enhancement of presynaptic neurotransmitter release compensates for diminished postsynaptic receptor functionality. To test the specificity of PHP induction and expression, we have developed a genetic manipulation to reduce postsynaptic receptor expression at one of the two muscles innervated by a single motor neuron. We find that PHP can be induced and expressed at a subset of synapses, over both acute and chronic time scales, without influencing transmission at adjacent release sites. Further, homeostatic modulations to CaMKII, vesicle pools, and functional release sites are compartmentalized and do not spread to neighboring pre- or post-synaptic structures. Thus, both PHP induction and expression mechanisms are locally transmitted and restricted to specific synaptic compartments. PMID:29620520

  5. Remote sensing of land surface phenology

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Meier, G.A.; Brown, Jesslyn F.

    2014-01-01

    Remote sensing of land-surface phenology is an important method for studying the patterns of plant and animal growth cycles. Phenological events are sensitive to climate variation; therefore phenology data provide important baseline information documenting trends in ecology and detecting the impacts of climate change on multiple scales. The USGS Remote sensing of land surface phenology program produces annually, nine phenology indicator variables at 250 m and 1,000 m resolution for the contiguous U.S. The 12 year archive is available at http://phenology.cr.usgs.gov/index.php.

  6. 77 FR 15933 - Importation of Wooden Handicrafts From China

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-03-19

    ..., in the third column, in footnote 2, in the third line `` https://www.ippc.int/index.php?id=13399&tx...://www.ippc.int/index.php?id=13399&tx_publication_pi1 [showUid]=133703&frompage=13399&type=publication...

  7. Health risks, travel preparation, and illness among public health professionals during international travel.

    PubMed

    Balaban, Victor; Warnock, Eli; Ramana Dhara, V; Jean-Louis, Lee Ann; Sotir, Mark J; Kozarsky, Phyllis

    2014-01-01

    Few data currently exist on health risks faced by public health professionals (PHP) during international travel. We conducted pre- and post-travel health surveys to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), and illnesses among PHP international travelers. Anonymous surveys were completed by PHP from a large American public health agency who sought a pre-travel medical consult from September 1, 2009, to September 30, 2010. Surveys were completed by 122 participants; travelers went to 163 countries. Of the 122 respondents, 97 (80%) reported at least one planned health risk activity (visiting rural areas, handling animals, contact with blood or body fluids, visiting malarious areas), and 50 (41%) reported exposure to unanticipated health risks. Of the 62 travelers who visited malarious areas, 14 (23%) reported inconsistent or no use of malaria prophylaxis. Illness during travel was reported by 33 (27%) respondents. Most of the PHP travelers in our study reported at least one planned health risk activity, and almost half reported exposure to unanticipated health risks, and one-quarter of travelers to malarious areas reported inconsistent or no use of malaria chemoprophylaxis. Our findings highlight that communication and education outreach for PHP to prevent travel-associated illnesses can be improved. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  8. Guanine nucleotide-binding protein α subunit hypofunction in children with short stature and disproportionate shortening of the 4th and 5th metacarpals.

    PubMed

    Inta, Ioana Monica; Choukair, Daniela; Bender, Sebastian; Kneppo, Carolin; Knauer-Fischer, Sabine; Meyenburg, Kahina; Ivandic, Boris; Pfister, Stefan M; Bettendorf, Markus

    2014-01-01

    GNAS encodes the α subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gsα). Maternal inherited Gsα mutations cause pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP-Ia), associated with shortening of the 4th and 5th metacarpals. Here we investigated the Gsα pathway in short patients with distinct shortening of the 4th and 5th metacarpals. In 571 children with short stature and 4 patients with PHP-Ia metacarpal bone lengths were measured. In identified patients we analysed the Gsα protein function in platelets, performed GNAS sequencing, and epigenetic analysis of four significant differentially methylated regions. In 51 patients (8.9%) shortening of the 4th and 5th metacarpals was more pronounced than their height deficit. No GNAS coding mutations were identified in 20 analysed patients, except in 2 PHP-Ia patients. Gsα activity was reduced in all PHP-Ia patients and in 25% of the analysed patients. No significant methylation changes were identified. Our findings suggest that patients with short stature and distinct metacarpal bone shortening could be part of the wide variety of PHP/PPHP, therefore it was worthwhile analysing the Gsα protein function and GNAS gene in these patients in order to further elucidate the phenotype and genotype of Gsα dysfunction.

  9. Design of a Hydrogen Pulsating Heat Pipe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yumeng; Deng, Haoren; Pfotenhauer, John; Gan, Zhihua

    In order to enhance the application of a cryocooler that provides cooling capacity at the cold head location, and effectively spread that cooling over an extended region, one requires an efficient heat transfer method. The pulsating heat pipe affords a highly effective heat transfer component that has been extensively researched at room temperature, but is recently being investigated for cryogenic applications. This paper describes the design. The experimental setup is designed to characterize the thermal performance of the PHP as a function of the applied heat, number of turns, filling ratio, inclination angle, and length of adiabatic section.

  10. 78 FR 1832 - Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests; Id; Crooked River Valley Rehabilitation Project

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-09

    ... the thirty-fourth through thirty-sixth lines, `` http://www.fs.fed.usinepa/fs-usda-pop.php/?project=40648 '' should read `` http://www.fs.fed.us/nepa/fs-usda-pop.php/?project=40648 ''. [FR Doc. C1-2012...

  11. (Epi)genotype-Phenotype Analysis in 69 Japanese Patients With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type I

    PubMed Central

    Sano, Shinichiro; Nakamura, Akie; Matsubara, Keiko; Nagasaki, Keisuke; Fukami, Maki; Kagami, Masayo

    2018-01-01

    Context: Pseudohypoparathyroidism type I (PHP-I) is divided into PHP-Ia with Albright hereditary osteodystrophy and PHP-Ib, which usually shows no Albright hereditary osteodystrophy features. Although PHP-Ia and PHP-Ib are typically caused by genetic defects involving α subunit of the stimulatory G protein (Gsα)–coding GNAS exons and methylation defects of the GNAS differentially methylated regions (DMRs) on the maternal allele, respectively, detailed phenotypic characteristics still remains to be examined. Objective: To clarify phenotypic characteristics according to underlying (epi)genetic causes. Patients and Methods: We performed (epi)genotype-phenotype analysis in 69 Japanese patients with PHP-I; that is, 28 patients with genetic defects involving Gsα-coding GNAS exons (group 1) consisting of 12 patients with missense variants (subgroup A) and 16 patients with null variants (subgroup B), as well as 41 patients with methylation defects (group 2) consisting of 21 patients with broad methylation defects of the GNAS-DMRs (subgroup C) and 20 patients with an isolated A/B-DMR methylation defect accompanied by the common STX16 microdeletion (subgroup D). Results: Although (epi)genotype-phenotype findings were grossly similar to those reported previously, several important findings were identified, including younger age at hypocalcemic symptoms and higher frequencies of hyperphosphatemia in subgroup C than in subgroup D, development of brachydactyly in four patients of subgroup C, predominant manifestation of subcutaneous ossification in subgroup B, higher frequency of thyrotropin resistance in group 1 than in group 2, and relatively low thyrotropin values in four patients with low T4 values and relatively low luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone values in five adult females with ovarian dysfunction. Conclusion: The results imply the presence of clinical findings characteristic of each underlying cause and provide useful information on the imprinting status of Gsα. PMID:29379892

  12. StreptomycesInforSys: A web-enabled information repository

    PubMed Central

    Jain, Chakresh Kumar; Gupta, Vidhi; Gupta, Ashvarya; Gupta, Sanjay; Wadhwa, Gulshan; Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar; Sarethy, Indira P

    2012-01-01

    Members of Streptomyces produce 70% of natural bioactive products. There is considerable amount of information available based on polyphasic approach for classification of Streptomyces. However, this information based on phenotypic, genotypic and bioactive component production profiles is crucial for pharmacological screening programmes. This is scattered across various journals, books and other resources, many of which are not freely accessible. The designed database incorporates polyphasic typing information using combinations of search options to aid in efficient screening of new isolates. This will help in the preliminary categorization of appropriate groups. It is a free relational database compatible with existing operating systems. A cross platform technology with XAMPP Web server has been used to develop, manage, and facilitate the user query effectively with database support. Employment of PHP, a platform-independent scripting language, embedded in HTML and the database management software MySQL will facilitate dynamic information storage and retrieval. The user-friendly, open and flexible freeware (PHP, MySQL and Apache) is foreseen to reduce running and maintenance cost. Availability www.sis.biowaves.org PMID:23275736

  13. StreptomycesInforSys: A web-enabled information repository.

    PubMed

    Jain, Chakresh Kumar; Gupta, Vidhi; Gupta, Ashvarya; Gupta, Sanjay; Wadhwa, Gulshan; Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar; Sarethy, Indira P

    2012-01-01

    Members of Streptomyces produce 70% of natural bioactive products. There is considerable amount of information available based on polyphasic approach for classification of Streptomyces. However, this information based on phenotypic, genotypic and bioactive component production profiles is crucial for pharmacological screening programmes. This is scattered across various journals, books and other resources, many of which are not freely accessible. The designed database incorporates polyphasic typing information using combinations of search options to aid in efficient screening of new isolates. This will help in the preliminary categorization of appropriate groups. It is a free relational database compatible with existing operating systems. A cross platform technology with XAMPP Web server has been used to develop, manage, and facilitate the user query effectively with database support. Employment of PHP, a platform-independent scripting language, embedded in HTML and the database management software MySQL will facilitate dynamic information storage and retrieval. The user-friendly, open and flexible freeware (PHP, MySQL and Apache) is foreseen to reduce running and maintenance cost. www.sis.biowaves.org.

  14. Optimization of Photooxidative Removal of Phenazopyridine from Water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saeid, Soudabeh; Behnajady, Mohammad A.; Tolvanen, Pasi; Salmi, Tapio

    2018-05-01

    The photooxidative removal of analgesic pharmaceutical compound phenazopyridine (PhP) from aqueous solutions by UV/H2O2 system with a re-circulated photoreactor was investigated. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the effect of operational parameters on the photooxidative removal efficiency. The investigated variables were: the initial PhP and H2O2 concentrations, irradiation time, volume of solution and pH. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) of quadratic model demonstrated that the described model was highly significant. The predicted values of the photooxidative removal efficiency were found to be in a fair agreement with experimental values ( R 2 = 0.9832, adjusted R 2 = 0.9716). The model predicted that the optimal reaction conditions for a maximum removal of PhP (>98%) were: initial PhP concentration less than 23 mg L-1, initial concentration of H2O2 higher than 470 mg L-1, solution volume less than 500 mL, pH close to 2 and irradiation time longer than 6 min.

  15. Phosphorylation of the Streptococcus pneumoniae cell wall biosynthesis enzyme MurC by a eukaryotic-like Ser/Thr kinase.

    PubMed

    Falk, Shaun P; Weisblum, Bernard

    2013-03-01

    Streptococcus pneumoniae contains a single Ser/Thr kinase-phosphatase pair known as StkP-PhpP. Here, we report the interaction of StkP-PhpP with S. pneumoniae UDP-N-acetylmuramoyl:L-alanine ligase, MurC, an enzyme that synthesizes an essential intermediate of the cell wall peptidoglycan pathway. Combinatorial phage display using StkP as target selected the peptide sequence YEVCGSDTVGC as an interacting partner and subsequently confirmed by ELISA. The phage peptide sequence YEVCGSDTVGC aligns closely with the MurC motif spanning S. pneumoniae amino acid coordinates 31-37. We show that MurC is phosphorylated by StkP and that phosphoMurC is dephosphorylated by PhpP. These data suggest a link between StkP-PhpP with the coordinated regulation of cell wall biosynthesis via MurC. © 2012 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Identification of a plastidial phenylalanine exporter that influences flux distribution through the phenylalanine biosynthetic network

    PubMed Central

    Widhalm, Joshua R.; Gutensohn, Michael; Yoo, Heejin; Adebesin, Funmilayo; Qian, Yichun; Guo, Longyun; Jaini, Rohit; Lynch, Joseph H.; McCoy, Rachel M.; Shreve, Jacob T.; Thimmapuram, Jyothi; Rhodes, David; Morgan, John A.; Dudareva, Natalia

    2015-01-01

    In addition to proteins, L-phenylalanine is a versatile precursor for thousands of plant metabolites. Production of phenylalanine-derived compounds is a complex multi-compartmental process using phenylalanine synthesized predominantly in plastids as precursor. The transporter(s) exporting phenylalanine from plastids, however, remains unknown. Here, a gene encoding a Petunia hybrida plastidial cationic amino-acid transporter (PhpCAT) functioning in plastidial phenylalanine export is identified based on homology to an Escherichia coli phenylalanine transporter and co-expression with phenylalanine metabolic genes. Radiolabel transport assays show that PhpCAT exports all three aromatic amino acids. PhpCAT downregulation and overexpression result in decreased and increased levels, respectively, of phenylalanine-derived volatiles, as well as phenylalanine, tyrosine and their biosynthetic intermediates. Metabolic flux analysis reveals that flux through the plastidial phenylalanine biosynthetic pathway is reduced in PhpCAT RNAi lines, suggesting that the rate of phenylalanine export from plastids contributes to regulating flux through the aromatic amino-acid network. PMID:26356302

  17. Identification of a plastidial phenylalanine exporter that influences flux distribution through the phenylalanine biosynthetic network

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

    Widhalm, Joshua R.; Gutensohn, Michael; Yoo, Heejin

    In addition to proteins, L-phenylalanine is a versatile precursor for thousands of plant metabolites. Production of phenylalanine-derived compounds is a complex multi-compartmental process using phenylalanine synthesized predominantly in plastids as precursor. The transporter(s) exporting phenylalanine from plastids, however, remains unknown. Here, a gene encoding a Petunia hybrida plastidial cationic amino-acid transporter (PhpCAT) functioning in plastidial phenylalanine export is identified based on homology to an Escherichia coli phenylalanine transporter and co-expression with phenylalanine metabolic genes. Radiolabel transport assays show that PhpCAT exports all three aromatic amino acids. PhpCAT downregulation and overexpression result in decreased and increased levels, respectively, of phenylalanine-derived volatiles,more » as well as phenylalanine, tyrosine and their biosynthetic intermediates. Metabolic flux analysis reveals that flux through the plastidial phenylalanine biosynthetic pathway is reduced in PhpCAT RNAi lines, suggesting that the rate of phenylalanine export from plastids contributes to regulating flux through the aromatic amino-acid network.« less

  18. Identification of a plastidial phenylalanine exporter that influences flux distribution through the phenylalanine biosynthetic network

    DOE PAGES

    Widhalm, Joshua R.; Gutensohn, Michael; Yoo, Heejin; ...

    2015-09-10

    In addition to proteins, L-phenylalanine is a versatile precursor for thousands of plant metabolites. Production of phenylalanine-derived compounds is a complex multi-compartmental process using phenylalanine synthesized predominantly in plastids as precursor. The transporter(s) exporting phenylalanine from plastids, however, remains unknown. Here, a gene encoding a Petunia hybrida plastidial cationic amino-acid transporter (PhpCAT) functioning in plastidial phenylalanine export is identified based on homology to an Escherichia coli phenylalanine transporter and co-expression with phenylalanine metabolic genes. Radiolabel transport assays show that PhpCAT exports all three aromatic amino acids. PhpCAT downregulation and overexpression result in decreased and increased levels, respectively, of phenylalanine-derived volatiles,more » as well as phenylalanine, tyrosine and their biosynthetic intermediates. Metabolic flux analysis reveals that flux through the plastidial phenylalanine biosynthetic pathway is reduced in PhpCAT RNAi lines, suggesting that the rate of phenylalanine export from plastids contributes to regulating flux through the aromatic amino-acid network.« less

  19. Cyclotetraphosphinophosphonium ions: synthesis, structures, and pseudorotation.

    PubMed

    Dyker, C Adam; Riegel, Susanne D; Burford, Neil; Lumsden, Michael D; Decken, Andreas

    2007-06-13

    The first derivatives of catenated cyclotetraphosphinophosphonium cations, [(PhP)4PPhMe]+ (8a), [(MeP)4PMe2]+ (8b), [(CyP)4PPh2]+ (8d), [(CyP)4PMe2]+ (8e), [(PhP)4PPh2]+ (8f), [(PhP)4PMe2]+ (8g), are synthesized as trifluoromethanesulfonate (triflate, OSO2CF3-) salts through the reaction of cyclopentaphosphines (PhP)5 (4a) or (MeP)5 (4b) with methyl triflate (MeOTf) or by a net phosphenium ion [PR2+, R = Ph, Me; from R2PCl and trimethylsilyltriflate (Me3SiOTf)] insertion into the P-P bond of either cyclotetraphosphine (CyP)4 (3c) or cyclopentaphosphines (PhP)5 (4a) or (MeP)5 (4b). Although more conveniently prepared from 4a, compound 8a[OTf] can also be formed from (PhP)4 (3a) and MeOTf, and derivatives 8f[OTf] and 8g[OTf] are also accessible through reactions of 3a and R2PCl/Me3SiOTf with R = Ph or Me, respectively. A tetrachlorogallate salt of [(PhP)4PPhtBu]+ (8c) has been synthesized by alkylation of 4a with tBuCl/GaCl3. 31P[1H] NMR parameters for all derivatives of 8 have been determined by iterative simulation of experimental data. Derivatives 8a[OTf], 8b[OTf], 8c[GaCl4], 8e[OTf], 8f[OTf], and 8g[OTf] and have been characterized by X-ray crystallography, showing the most favorable all-trans configuration of substituents for the phosphine centers, thus minimizing steric interactions. Each derivative adopts a unique envelope or twist conformation of C1 symmetry. The effective C2 symmetry observed for 8b, d, e, f, and g in solution, signified by their 31P[1H] NMR AA'BB'X spin systems, implies a rapid conformational exchange for derivatives of 8. The core frameworks of the cations in the solid state are viewed as snapshots of different conformational isomers within the solution-phase pseudorotation process.

  20. Renal effects of multiple infusion of pyridoxalated-hemoglobin-polyoxyethylene conjugate (PHP) solution in dogs.

    PubMed

    Takahashi, T; Iwasaki, K; Malchesky, P S; Harasaki, H; Matsushita, M; Nosé, Y; Rolin, H; Hall, P M

    1993-03-01

    Pyridoxalated-hemoglobin-polyoxyethylene conjugate (PHP), which is made from out-dated human red blood cells by two major chemical modifications, namely pyridoxalation and conjugation with polyoxyethylene (POE), is currently under development as a physiological oxygen carrier. This study assessed the effects of PHP-88 solution, which contains 8% (wt/vol) each of hemoglobin (Hb) and maltose, on renal function when it was infused 3 times every other day into the intact circulation of 8 dogs (5 dogs for the PHP group and 3 for the control group; 20 ml/kg for the first infusion, and 10 ml/kg each for the second and third infusions, at the rate of 2.5 ml/h/kg). Serial determinations of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal plasma flow (RPF) were carried out pre- and postinfusion for up to 3 months along with measurements of blood and urine analyses, urine output rate, fractional excretion of sodium (FES), and free water clearance (CH2O). The results showed that plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) elevated an average of 3.3 mm Hg (p = 0.0085), and GFR and RPF tended to increase by 13% (NS) and 38% (NS), respectively, immediately after the third infusion with PHP solution. Urine output rate increased during and after the infusion, and FES and CH2O also increased for 24 h after the infusion in both groups. Blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and serum Na+ concentrations were not affected greatly by the infusions, but hematocrit was decreased by 8% in the PHP group, indicating approximately a 42% expansion of plasma volume. These changes were observed to return to their preinfusion levels by 1 week postinfusion. Renal histology of the PHP group obtained at 2 weeks postinfusion revealed vacuole formation in the proximal tubules which was not associated with any pathologic changes indicative of cell death or regeneration. In 4 out of 5 dogs at 3 months postinfusion (necropsy), the vacuoles were not present. Though urinary N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity had significantly increased after infusion, it returned to the preinfusion level by 1 month postinfusion. No detrimental effect of vacuoles on the assessed renal tubular functions was confirmed in the present study. The results demonstrated that multiple infusions of PHP solutions were well tolerated in normal dogs, and the observed effects were conceived predominantly attributable to the physiological response of the kidneys to an oncotic load into the circulation, which produced plasma volume expansion.

  1. Are public health physicians still needed in medically underserved rural areas in Korea?

    PubMed

    Na, Baeg Ju; Lee, Jin Yong; Kim, Hyun Joo

    2017-05-01

    Public health physicians (PHPs) are certified physicians who are serving in a public health center or subcenter in a rural village, instead of serving in the military. However, the PHP program has recently become the subject of a profound debate, over 30 years after its adoption. In this study, we attempted to ascertain physicians' perspectives on the PHP program, including: whether the PHP policy should continue; if they agree on changing the role of PHPs in healthcare; what would be the desired role of PHPs; and what resources would be required and what possible barriers would be anticipated under the changes. We selected 88 PHPs as our study sample using quota sampling. Over 60% of respondents were in support of continuing the PHP program. They believed some remote islands and mountainous areas are still in need of public healthcare doctors. However, some of them believed that the role of PHPs should be changed to take on community health promotion, because the problem of medically underserved rural areas has almost been resolved. However, people living in rural areas are ageing and suffering from a lack of education and health information. In particular, in order to successfully transition into new roles, PHPs must be provided with continuing education and professional development programs covering their new responsibilities. It is imperative to refurbish the PHP program to meet current needs and continue its central role in public healthcare.

  2. Understanding patients' oral health information needs: Findings of a survey on use of patient portals in dentistry.

    PubMed

    Shimpi, Neel; Schwei, Kelsey; Cooper, Sara; Chyou, Po-Huang; Acharya, Amit

    2018-03-01

    Patient engagement through web-based patient health portals (PHP) can offer important benefits to patients and provider organizations by improving both quality and access to care. The authors studied the most relevant, patient-identified, oral health information available in the PHP to inform their assessment of patient-centered care. The authors distributed a 17-question, paper-based survey to patients aged 18 through 80 years in the waiting rooms of 8 dental centers in Wisconsin. Descriptive statistics, along with differences in percentages by sex, age group, and metropolitan status were reported using the χ 2 and Wilcoxon rank sum test. A 75% (813 of 1,090) response rate was achieved. More than one-third of patients selected access to previous dental procedures, dental history, routine dental appointment reminders, date of last dental visit, tooth chart, date of last full-mouth radiograph, and dental problem list via the PHP. Patients identified and recommended incorporation of different types of oral health data for access via the PHP as vital to strengthening the communication between patients and dental professionals. Incorporating patient-identified oral health information in the PHP will inform strategies for improving patient engagement, strengthen patient-provider communication, and offer a venue for increasing oral health literacy and awareness. Copyright © 2018 American Dental Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Two-Photon Activation of p-Hydroxyphenacyl Phototriggers: Toward Spatially Controlled Release of Diethyl Phosphate and ATP.

    PubMed

    Houk, Amanda L; Givens, Richard S; Elles, Christopher G

    2016-03-31

    Two-photon activation of the p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) photoactivated protecting group is demonstrated for the first time using visible light at 550 nm from a pulsed laser. Broadband two-photon absorption measurements reveal a strong two-photon transition (>10 GM) near 4.5 eV that closely resembles the lowest-energy band at the same total excitation energy in the one-photon absorption spectrum of the pHP chromophore. The polarization dependence of the two-photon absorption band is consistent with excitation to the same S3 ((1)ππ*) excited state for both one- and two-photon activation. Monitoring the progress of the uncaging reaction under nonresonant excitation at 550 nm confirms a quadratic intensity dependence and that two-photon activation of the uncaging reaction is possible using visible light in the range 500-620 nm. Deprotonation of the pHP chromophore under mildly basic conditions shifts the absorption band to lower energy (3.8 eV) in both the one- and two-photon absorption spectra, suggesting that two-photon activation of the pHP chromophore may be possible using light in the range 550-720 nm. The results of these measurements open the possibility of spatially and temporally selective release of biologically active compounds from the pHP protecting group using visible light from a pulsed laser.

  4. PLANT HOMOLOGOUS TO PARAFIBROMIN is a component of the PAF1 complex and assists in regulating expression of genes within H3K27ME3-enriched chromatin.

    PubMed

    Park, Sunchung; Oh, Sookyung; Ek-Ramos, Julissa; van Nocker, Steven

    2010-06-01

    The human Paf1 complex (Paf1C) subunit Parafibromin assists in mediating output from the Wingless/Int signaling pathway, and dysfunction of the encoding gene HRPT2 conditions specific cancer-related disease phenotypes. Here, we characterize the organismal and molecular roles of PLANT HOMOLOGOUS TO PARAFIBROMIN (PHP), the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) homolog of Parafibromin. PHP resides in an approximately 670-kD protein complex in nuclear extracts, and physically interacts with other known Paf1C-related proteins in vivo. In striking contrast to the developmental pleiotropy conferred by mutation in other plant Paf1C component genes in Arabidopsis, loss of PHP specifically conditioned accelerated phase transition from vegetative growth to flowering and resulted in misregulation of a very limited subset of genes that included the flowering repressor FLOWERING LOCUS C. Those genes targeted by PHP were distinguished from the bulk of Arabidopsis genes and other plant Paf1C targets by strong enrichment for trimethylation of lysine-27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3) within chromatin. These findings suggest that PHP is a component of a plant Paf1C protein in Arabidopsis, but has a more specialized role in modulating expression of a subset of Paf1C targets.

  5. ABCs of Being Smart: S Is for Supporting

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Foster, Joanne

    2014-01-01

    Joanne Foster's article "R We There Yet?" was first published in "Parenting for High Potential" ("PHP") in 2006, which became the springboard for the "ABCs of Being Smart" series of columns. At that time, Foster invited "PHP" readers to think about their own versions of the "ABCs of Being…

  6. Civil Restitution as an Objective of Department of Homeland Security Mission 3

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-01

    applicability and effectiveness, and allow for iterations accordingly. The 1975 Georgia’s Restitution Center Program, and the 1977 Georgia’s Non-Residential...the United States without lawful admission, Vermont Service Center , Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the United States...Types of Research Designs.” September 23, 2013. http://libguides.usc.edu/ content.php?pid=83009&sid=818072. Vermont Service Center . Application

  7. Multiple intracranial calcifications and spinal compressions: rare complications of type la pseudohypoparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Chen, H; Tseng, F; Su, D; Chen, H; Tsai, K

    2005-01-01

    Type la pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP la) is an unusual inherited disease. PHP la often causes extraskeletal calcifications and even soft tissue ossifications. Patients may present neurologic symptoms and signs related to hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. We report here a 38-yr-old woman with PHP la who had two uncommon neurologic complications. One was involuntary movements related to basal ganglia calcification, and the other was myelopathy owing to ossifications of the posterior longitudinal ligament and multiple herniated intervertebral disks. Aggressive body weight control and corrections of hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated PTH may be important to prevent these unusual neurologic complications. Regular and careful neurologic examinations should be performed for early diagnosis and treatments of these spinal lesions.

  8. Solar Eclipse Computer API: Planning Ahead for August 2017

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bartlett, Jennifer L.; Chizek Frouard, Malynda; Lesniak, Michael V.; Bell, Steve

    2016-01-01

    With the total solar eclipse of 2017 August 21 over the continental United States approaching, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) on-line Solar Eclipse Computer can now be accessed via an application programming interface (API). This flexible interface returns local circumstances for any solar eclipse in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that can be incorporated into third-party Web sites or applications. For a given year, it can also return a list of solar eclipses that can be used to build a more specific request for local circumstances. Over the course of a particular eclipse as viewed from a specific site, several events may be visible: the beginning and ending of the eclipse (first and fourth contacts), the beginning and ending of totality (second and third contacts), the moment of maximum eclipse, sunrise, or sunset. For each of these events, the USNO Solar Eclipse Computer reports the time, Sun's altitude and azimuth, and the event's position and vertex angles. The computer also reports the duration of the total phase, the duration of the eclipse, the magnitude of the eclipse, and the percent of the Sun obscured for a particular eclipse site. On-line documentation for using the API-enabled Solar Eclipse Computer, including sample calls, is available (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php). The same Web page also describes how to reach the Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day, Phases of the Moon, Day and Night Across the Earth, and Apparent Disk of a Solar System Object services using API calls.For those who prefer using a traditional data input form, local circumstances can still be requested that way at http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/SolarEclipses.php. In addition, the 2017 August 21 Solar Eclipse Resource page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2017.php) consolidates all of the USNO resources for this event, including a Google Map view of the eclipse track designed by Her Majesty's Nautical Almanac Office (HMNAO). Looking further ahead, a 2024 April 8 Solar Eclipse Resource page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2024.php) is also available.

  9. 77 FR 47591 - Notice of Request for Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Plant Protection and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-09

    ... performance of its quality management system by monitoring information related to customer perception in relationship to customer requirements. PHP has determined that the best method for obtaining this information... by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), PHP would allow stakeholders and customers to complete...

  10. Allostatic Load: Single Parents, Stress-Related Health Issues, and Social Care

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johner, Randy L.

    2007-01-01

    This article explores the possible relationships between allostatic load (AL) and stress-related health issues in the low-income single-parent population, using both a population health perspective (PHP) and a biological framework. A PHP identifies associations among such factors as gender, income, employment, and social support and their…

  11. Agentless Cloud-Wide Monitoring of Virtual Disk State

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    packages include Apache, MySQL , PHP, Ruby on Rails, Java Application Servers, and many others. Figure 2.12 shows the results of a run of the Software...Linux, Apache, MySQL , PHP (LAMP) set of applications. Thus, many file-level update logs will contain the same versions of files repeated across many

  12. Polyester type polyHIPE scaffolds with an interconnected porous structure for cartilage regeneration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Naranda, Jakob; Sušec, Maja; Maver, Uroš; Gradišnik, Lidija; Gorenjak, Mario; Vukasović, Andreja; Ivković, Alan; Rupnik, Marjan Slak; Vogrin, Matjaž; Krajnc, Peter

    2016-06-01

    Development of artificial materials for the facilitation of cartilage regeneration remains an important challenge in orthopedic practice. Our study investigates the potential for neocartilage formation within a synthetic polyester scaffold based on the polymerization of high internal phase emulsions. The fabrication of polyHIPE polymer (PHP) was specifically tailored to produce a highly porous (85%) structure with the primary pore size in the range of 50-170 μm for cartilage tissue engineering. The resulting PHP scaffold was proven biocompatible with human articular chondrocytes and viable cells were observed within the materials as evaluated using the Live/Dead assay and histological analysis. Chondrocytes with round nuclei were organized into multicellular layers on the PHP surface and were observed to grow approximately 300 μm into the scaffold interior. The accumulation of collagen type 2 was detected using immunohistochemistry and chondrogenic specific genes were expressed with favorable collagen type 2 to 1 ratio. In addition, PHP samples are biodegradable and their baseline mechanical properties are similar to those of native cartilage, which enhance chondrocyte cell growth and proliferation.

  13. Engineered AAVs for efficient noninvasive gene delivery to the central and peripheral nervous systems

    PubMed Central

    Chan, Ken Y; Jang, Min J; Yoo, Bryan B; Greenbaum, Alon; Ravi, Namita; Wu, Wei-Li; Sánchez-Guardado, Luis; Lois, Carlos; Mazmanian, Sarkis K; Deverman, Benjamin E; Gradinaru, Viviana

    2017-01-01

    Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are commonly used for in vivo gene transfer. Nevertheless, AAVs that provide efficient transduction across specific organs or cell populations are needed. Here, we describe AAV-PHP.eB and AAV-PHP.S, capsids that efficiently transduce the central and peripheral nervous systems, respectively. In the adult mouse, intravenous administration of 1×1011 vector genomes (vg) of AAV-PHP.eB transduced 69% of cortical and 55% of striatal neurons, while 1×1012 vg AAV-PHP.S transduced 82% of dorsal root ganglion neurons, as well as cardiac and enteric neurons. The efficiency of these vectors facilitates robust co-transduction and stochastic, multicolor labeling for individual cell morphology studies. To support such efforts, we provide methods for labeling a tunable fraction of cells without compromising color diversity. Furthermore, when used with cell type-specific promoters, these AAVs provide targeted gene expression across the nervous system and enable efficient and versatile gene manipulation throughout the nervous system of transgenic and non-transgenic animals. PMID:28671695

  14. Editing of misaligned 3'-termini by an intrinsic 3'-5' exonuclease activity residing in the PHP domain of a family X DNA polymerase.

    PubMed

    Baños, Benito; Lázaro, José M; Villar, Laurentino; Salas, Margarita; de Vega, Miguel

    2008-10-01

    Bacillus subtilis gene yshC encodes a family X DNA polymerase (PolX(Bs)), whose biochemical features suggest that it plays a role during DNA repair processes. Here, we show that, in addition to the polymerization activity, PolX(Bs) possesses an intrinsic 3'-5' exonuclease activity specialized in resecting unannealed 3'-termini in a gapped DNA substrate. Biochemical analysis of a PolX(Bs) deletion mutant lacking the C-terminal polymerase histidinol phosphatase (PHP) domain, present in most of the bacterial/archaeal PolXs, as well as of this separately expressed protein region, allow us to state that the 3'-5' exonuclease activity of PolX(Bs) resides in its PHP domain. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis of PolX(Bs) His339 and His341 residues, evolutionary conserved in the PHP superfamily members, demonstrated that the predicted metal binding site is directly involved in catalysis of the exonucleolytic reaction. The implications of the unannealed 3'-termini resection by the 3'-5' exonuclease activity of PolX(Bs) in the DNA repair context are discussed.

  15. Polyester type polyHIPE scaffolds with an interconnected porous structure for cartilage regeneration

    PubMed Central

    Naranda, Jakob; Sušec, Maja; Maver, Uroš; Gradišnik, Lidija; Gorenjak, Mario; Vukasović, Andreja; Ivković, Alan; Rupnik, Marjan Slak; Vogrin, Matjaž; Krajnc, Peter

    2016-01-01

    Development of artificial materials for the facilitation of cartilage regeneration remains an important challenge in orthopedic practice. Our study investigates the potential for neocartilage formation within a synthetic polyester scaffold based on the polymerization of high internal phase emulsions. The fabrication of polyHIPE polymer (PHP) was specifically tailored to produce a highly porous (85%) structure with the primary pore size in the range of 50–170 μm for cartilage tissue engineering. The resulting PHP scaffold was proven biocompatible with human articular chondrocytes and viable cells were observed within the materials as evaluated using the Live/Dead assay and histological analysis. Chondrocytes with round nuclei were organized into multicellular layers on the PHP surface and were observed to grow approximately 300 μm into the scaffold interior. The accumulation of collagen type 2 was detected using immunohistochemistry and chondrogenic specific genes were expressed with favorable collagen type 2 to 1 ratio. In addition, PHP samples are biodegradable and their baseline mechanical properties are similar to those of native cartilage, which enhance chondrocyte cell growth and proliferation. PMID:27340110

  16. Are public health physicians still needed in medically underserved rural areas in Korea?

    PubMed Central

    Na, Baeg Ju; Lee, Jin Yong; Kim, Hyun Joo

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Public health physicians (PHPs) are certified physicians who are serving in a public health center or subcenter in a rural village, instead of serving in the military. However, the PHP program has recently become the subject of a profound debate, over 30 years after its adoption. In this study, we attempted to ascertain physicians’ perspectives on the PHP program, including: whether the PHP policy should continue; if they agree on changing the role of PHPs in healthcare; what would be the desired role of PHPs; and what resources would be required and what possible barriers would be anticipated under the changes. We selected 88 PHPs as our study sample using quota sampling. Over 60% of respondents were in support of continuing the PHP program. They believed some remote islands and mountainous areas are still in need of public healthcare doctors. However, some of them believed that the role of PHPs should be changed to take on community health promotion, because the problem of medically underserved rural areas has almost been resolved. However, people living in rural areas are ageing and suffering from a lack of education and health information. In particular, in order to successfully transition into new roles, PHPs must be provided with continuing education and professional development programs covering their new responsibilities. It is imperative to refurbish the PHP program to meet current needs and continue its central role in public healthcare. PMID:28489812

  17. The effect of total blood exchange with PHP solution on cardiac xenotransplantation.

    PubMed

    Liu, H; Agishi, T; Suga, H; Hayasaka, Y; Teraoka, S; Ota, K

    1995-04-01

    Prevention of hyperacute rejection is a difficult and unsolved problem in xenotransplantation. Natural antibodies and complement activation have been known to play an important role in the xenotransplantation between discordant species pairs. In the present study, total blood exchange (TBE) was performed with pyridoxalated-hemoglobin-polyoxyethylene conjugate (PHP) solution (Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Kawasaki, Japan) before cardiac xenotransplantation in order to remove the immunoglobulins and prolong xenograft survival time. Guinea pigs and rats were used as the discordant species combination for donor and recipient. Two groups were established: Group 1, untreated control (n = 8) and Group 2, TBT with PHP solution (n = 8). The exchange blood transfusion was carried out at the rate of 15-20 ml/h utilizing PHP solution using a blood pump. After the blood exchange was processed, hematocrit (Ht) levels dropped to 4 or 5%, and a cardiac xenotransplantation was performed within 24 h. The levels of serum IgA, IgM, and IgG were decreased to less than 25, 25, and 10% of the base line, respectively, after blood exchange. A mean xenograft survival time in Group 2 was prolonged to 472 +/- 74 min and to 10.4 +/- 1.8 min in Group 1 (p < 0.01). A titer of the anti-guinea pig lymphocytotoxic antibody in rat serum was decreased to almost nil. The data from this study suggest that total blood exchange with PHP solution may be useful in preoperative removal of xenograft antibodies in xenotransplantation.

  18. Detection of new-onset choroidal neovascularization using optical coherence tomography: the AMD DOC Study.

    PubMed

    Do, Diana V; Gower, Emily W; Cassard, Sandra D; Boyer, David; Bressler, Neil M; Bressler, Susan B; Heier, Jeffrey S; Jefferys, Joan L; Singerman, Lawrence J; Solomon, Sharon D

    2012-04-01

    To determine the sensitivity of time domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) in detecting conversion to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in eyes at high risk for choroidal neovascularization (CNV), compared with detection using fluorescein angiography (FA) as the gold standard. Prospective, multicenter, observational study. Individuals aged ≥50 years with nonneovascular AMD at high risk of progressing to CNV in the study eye and evidence of neovascular AMD in the fellow eye. At study entry and every 3 months through 2 years, participants underwent best-corrected visual acuity, supervised Amsler grid testing, preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP) testing, stereoscopic digital fundus photographs with FA, and OCT imaging. A central Reading Center graded all images. The sensitivity of OCT in detecting conversion to neovascular AMD by 2 years, using FA as the reference standard. Secondary outcomes included comparison of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of OCT, PHP, and supervised Amsler grid relative to FA for detecting incident CNV. A total of 98 participants were enrolled; 87 (89%) of these individuals either completed the 24-month visit or exited the study after developing CNV. Fifteen (17%) study eyes had incident CNV confirmed on FA by the Reading Center. The sensitivity of each modality for detecting CNV was: OCT 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-0.68), supervised Amsler grid 0.42 (95% CI, 0.15-0.72), and PHP 0.50 (95% CI, 0.23-0.77). Treatment for incident CNV was recommended by the study investigator in 13 study eyes. Sensitivity of the testing modalities for detection of CNV in these 13 eyes was 0.69 (95% CI, 0.39-0.91) for OCT, 0.50 (95% CI, 0.19-0.81) for supervised Amsler grid, and 0.70 (95% CI, 0.35-0.93) for PHP. Specificity of the OCT was higher than that of the Amsler grid and PHP. Time-domain OCT, supervised Amsler grid, and PHP have low to moderate sensitivity for detection of new-onset CNV compared with FA. Optical coherence tomography has greater specificity than Amsler grid or PHP. Among fellow eyes of individuals with unilateral CNV, FA remains the best method to detect new-onset CNV. Copyright © 2012 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Preliminary Design of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Using Multi-Objective Optimization

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-03-01

    fuel cell PC propulsive coefficient PEMFC proton exchange membrane fuel cell PHP propulsive horsepower PO Pareto optimal PSO particle swarm...membrane fuel cell ( PEMFC ), molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and direct and indirect methanol fuel cell (DMFC). Figure...of fuel cells in depth, I will note that PEMFCs are smaller and have a lower operating temperature compared to the other types. Those are the main

  20. SP-Designer: a user-friendly program for designing species-specific primer pairs from DNA sequence alignments.

    PubMed

    Villard, Pierre; Malausa, Thibaut

    2013-07-01

    SP-Designer is an open-source program providing a user-friendly tool for the design of specific PCR primer pairs from a DNA sequence alignment containing sequences from various taxa. SP-Designer selects PCR primer pairs for the amplification of DNA from a target species on the basis of several criteria: (i) primer specificity, as assessed by interspecific sequence polymorphism in the annealing regions, (ii) the biochemical characteristics of the primers and (iii) the intended PCR conditions. SP-Designer generates tables, detailing the primer pair and PCR characteristics, and a FASTA file locating the primer sequences in the original sequence alignment. SP-Designer is Windows-compatible and freely available from http://www2.sophia.inra.fr/urih/sophia_mart/sp_designer/info_sp_designer.php. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  1. An Improved Model for Operational Specification of the Electron Density Structure up to Geosynchronous Heights

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-07-01

    http://www.iono.noa.gr/ElectronDensity/EDProfile.php The web service has been developed with the following open source tools: a) PHP , for the... MySQL for the database, which was based on the enhancement of the DIAS database. Below we present some screen shots to demonstrate the functionality

  2. Pediatric Healthcare Professionals' Views on Autism Spectrum Disorder Screening at 12-18 Months

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Crais, Elizabeth R.; McComish, Cara S.; Humphreys, Betsy P.; Watson, Linda R.; Baranek, Grace T.; Reznick, J. Steven; Christian, Rob B.; Earls, Marian

    2014-01-01

    This study explored North Carolina pediatric healthcare professional's (PHP) perceptions of screening 12-18 month old infants for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Eight focus groups (66 PHPs) were conducted across practice settings. The purpose was to explore PHP's perspectives to: inform development of ASD screening tools and ultimately impact…

  3. An Educational Program for Sub-Professional Personnel to be Employed in Health Maintenance Organizations. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    HMO Management, Inc., Los Angeles, CA.

    Through Medicaid, the Health Maintenance Organization Act (HMO), and Prepaid Health Programs (PHP) approaches were established whereby the government can help alleviate the medical problems of the needy. A program to educate and train students in California in the philosophy, administration, and development of PHP was developed in response to…

  4. MySQL/PHP web database applications for IPAC proposal submission

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Crane, Megan K.; Storrie-Lombardi, Lisa J.; Silbermann, Nancy A.; Rebull, Luisa M.

    2008-07-01

    The Infrared Processing and Analysis Center (IPAC) is NASA's multi-mission center of expertise for long-wavelength astrophysics. Proposals for various IPAC missions and programs are ingested via MySQL/PHP web database applications. Proposers use web forms to enter coversheet information and upload PDF files related to the proposal. Upon proposal submission, a unique directory is created on the webserver into which all of the uploaded files are placed. The coversheet information is converted into a PDF file using a PHP extension called FPDF. The files are concatenated into one PDF file using the command-line tool pdftk and then forwarded to the review committee. This work was performed at the California Institute of Technology under contract to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

  5. Research and design on system of asset management based on RFID

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guan, Peng; Du, HuaiChang; Jing, Hua; Zhang, MengYue; Zhang, Meng; Xu, GuiXian

    2011-10-01

    By analyzing the problems in the current assets management, this thesis proposing RFID technology will be applied to asset management in order to improve the management level of automation and information. This paper designed the equipment identification based on 433MHz RFID tag and reader which was deeply studied on the basis of RFID tag and card reader circuits, and this paper also illustrates the system of asset management. The RS232 converts Ethernet is a innovative technology to transfer data to PC monitor software, and implement system of asset management based on WEB techniques (PHP and MySQL).

  6. Analytical characterization of three cathinone derivatives, 4-MPD, 4F-PHP and bk-EPDP, purchased as bulk powder from online vendors.

    PubMed

    Apirakkan, Orapan; Frinculescu, Anca; Shine, Trevor; Parkin, Mark C; Cilibrizzi, Agostino; Frascione, Nunzianda; Abbate, Vincenzo

    2018-02-01

    Novel emerging drugs of abuse, also referred as new psychoactive substances, constitute an ever-changing mixture of chemical compounds designed to circumvent legislative controls by means of chemical modifications of previously banned recreational drugs. One such class, synthetic cathinones, namely β-keto derivatives of amphetamines, has been largely abused over the past decade. A number of new synthetic cathinones are detected each year, either in bulk powders/crystals or in biological matrices. It is therefore important to continuously monitor the supply of new synthetic derivatives and promptly report them. By using complementary analytical techniques (i.e. one- and two-dimensional NMR, FT-IR, GC-MS, HRMS and HPLC-UV), this study investigates the detection, identification and full characterization of 1-(4-methylphenyl)-2-(methylamino)pentanone (4-methylpentedrone, 4-MPD), 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)hexanone (4F-PHP) and 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(ethylamino)-1-pentanone (bk-EPDP), three emerging cathinone derivatives. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  7. TSH elevations as the first laboratory evidence for pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib).

    PubMed

    Molinaro, Angelo; Tiosano, Dov; Takatani, Rieko; Chrysis, Dionisios; Russell, William; Koscielniak, Nikolas; Kottler, Marie-Laure; Agretti, Patrizia; De Marco, Giuseppina; Ahtiainen, Petteri; Christov, Marta; Mäkitie, Outi; Tonacchera, Massimo; Jüppner, Harald

    2015-05-01

    Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia because of resistance toward parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the proximal renal tubules are the most prominent abnormalities in patients affected by pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib). In this rare disorder, which is caused by GNAS methylation changes, resistance can occur toward other hormones, such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), that mediate their actions through G protein-coupled receptors. However, these additional laboratory abnormalities are usually not recognized until PTH-resistant hypocalcemia becomes clinically apparent. We now describe four pediatric patients, first diagnosed with subclinical or overt hypothyroidism between the ages of 0.2 and 15 years, who developed overt PTH-resistance 3 to 20 years later. Although anti-thyroperoxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies provided a plausible explanation for hypothyroidism in one of these patients, this and two other patients revealed broad epigenetic GNAS abnormalities, which included loss of methylation (LOM) at exons AS, XL, and A/B, and gain of methylation at exon NESP55; ie, findings consistent with PHP-Ib. LOM at GNAS exon A/B alone led in the fourth patient to the identification of a maternally inherited 3-kb STX16 deletion, a well-established cause of autosomal dominant PHP-Ib. Although GNAS methylation changes were not detected in additional pediatric and adult patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (23 pediatric and 39 adult cases), hypothyroidism can obviously be the initial finding in PHP-Ib patients. One should therefore consider measuring PTH, along with calcium and phosphate, in patients with unexplained hypothyroidism for extended periods of time to avoid hypocalcemia and associated clinical complications. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

  8. TSH elevations as the first laboratory evidence for pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib)†

    PubMed Central

    Molinaro, Angelo; Tiosano, Dov; Takatani, Rieko; Chrysis, Dionisios; Russell, William; Koscielniak, Nikolas; Kottler, Marie-Laure; Agretti, Patrizia; De Marco, Giuseppina; Ahtiainen, Petteri; Christov, Marta; Mäkitie, Outi; Tonacchera, Massimo; Jüppner, Harald

    2014-01-01

    Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia because of resistance towards parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the proximal renal tubules are the most prominent abnormalities in patients affected by pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib). In this rare disorder that is caused by GNAS methylation changes, resistance can occur towards other hormones, such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), that mediate their actions through G protein-coupled receptors. However, these additional laboratory abnormalities are usually not recognized until PTH-resistant hypocalcemia becomes clinically apparent. We now describe four pediatric patients, first diagnosed with subclinical or overt hypothyroidism between the ages of 0.2 and 15 years, who developed overt PTH-resistance 3-20 years later. Although anti-TPO antibodies provided a plausible explanation for hypothyroidism in one of these patients, this and two other patients revealed broad epigenetic GNAS abnormalities, which included loss of methylation (LOM) at exons AS, XL and A/B, and gain of methylation at exon NESP55, i.e. findings consistent with PHP-Ib. LOM at GNAS exon A/B alone led in the fourth patient to the identification of a maternally inherited 3-kb STX16 deletion, a well-established cause of autosomal dominant PHP-Ib. Although GNAS methylation changes were not detected in additional pediatric and adult patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (23 pediatric and 39 adult cases), hypothyroidism can obviously be the initial finding in PHP-Ib patients. One should therefore consider measuring PTH, along with calcium and phosphate, in patients with unexplained hypothyroidism for extended periods of time to avoid hypocalcemia and associated clinical complications. PMID:25403028

  9. Development of SRS.php, a Simple Object Access Protocol-based library for data acquisition from integrated biological databases.

    PubMed

    Barbosa-Silva, A; Pafilis, E; Ortega, J M; Schneider, R

    2007-12-11

    Data integration has become an important task for biological database providers. The current model for data exchange among different sources simplifies the manner that distinct information is accessed by users. The evolution of data representation from HTML to XML enabled programs, instead of humans, to interact with biological databases. We present here SRS.php, a PHP library that can interact with the data integration Sequence Retrieval System (SRS). The library has been written using SOAP definitions, and permits the programmatic communication through webservices with the SRS. The interactions are possible by invoking the methods described in WSDL by exchanging XML messages. The current functions available in the library have been built to access specific data stored in any of the 90 different databases (such as UNIPROT, KEGG and GO) using the same query syntax format. The inclusion of the described functions in the source of scripts written in PHP enables them as webservice clients to the SRS server. The functions permit one to query the whole content of any SRS database, to list specific records in these databases, to get specific fields from the records, and to link any record among any pair of linked databases. The case study presented exemplifies the library usage to retrieve information regarding registries of a Plant Defense Mechanisms database. The Plant Defense Mechanisms database is currently being developed, and the proposal of SRS.php library usage is to enable the data acquisition for the further warehousing tasks related to its setup and maintenance.

  10. Automated conversation system before pediatric primary care visits: a randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Adams, William G; Phillips, Barrett D; Bacic, Janine D; Walsh, Kathleen E; Shanahan, Christopher W; Paasche-Orlow, Michael K

    2014-09-01

    Interactive voice response systems integrated with electronic health records have the potential to improve primary care by engaging parents outside clinical settings via spoken language. The objective of this study was to determine whether use of an interactive voice response system, the Personal Health Partner (PHP), before routine health care maintenance visits could improve the quality of primary care visits and be well accepted by parents and clinicians. English-speaking parents of children aged 4 months to 11 years called PHP before routine visits and were randomly assigned to groups by the system at the time of the call. Parents' spoken responses were used to provide tailored counseling and support goal setting for the upcoming visit. Data were transferred to the electronic health records for review during visits. The study occurred in an urban hospital-based pediatric primary care center. Participants were called after the visit to assess (1) comprehensiveness of screening and counseling, (2) assessment of medications and their management, and (3) parent and clinician satisfaction. PHP was able to identify and counsel in multiple areas. A total of 9.7% of parents responded to the mailed invitation. Intervention parents were more likely to report discussing important issues such as depression (42.6% vs 25.4%; P < .01) and prescription medication use (85.7% vs 72.6%; P = .04) and to report being better prepared for visits. One hundred percent of clinicians reported that PHP improved the quality of their care. Systems like PHP have the potential to improve clinical screening, counseling, and medication management. Copyright © 2014 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

  11. 78 FR 49579 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; EDGX Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-14

    ...://www.lavatrading.com/solutions/pricing.php (July 1, 2013) (charging a fee of $0.0030 per share for..., available at https://www.lavatrading.com/solutions/pricing.php (July 1, 2013) (no longer charging a fee of... omitted'' from Footnote 7 and replace it with the exact content from Footnote 11. Conforming changes are...

  12. Sudden Gains in the Treatment of Depression in a Partial Hospitalization Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Drymalski, Walter M.; Washburn, Jason J.

    2011-01-01

    Objective: This study examines sudden gains (SGs), or rapid improvements in symptoms, among adults in treatment for depression in a partial hospitalization program (PHP). This study identifies the proportion of people who experience SGs in a PHP, when SGs occur in treatment, and the association of SGs with outcomes at the end of treatment. Method:…

  13. Blood flow structure in patients with coronary heart disease

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Malinova, Lidia I.; Simonenko, Georgy V.; Denisova, Tatyana P.; Tuchin, Valery V.

    2007-05-01

    Blood flow structure was studied by PC integrated video camera with following slide by slide analysis. Volumetric blood flow velocity was supporting on constant level (1 ml/h). Silicone tube of diameter comparable with coronary arteries diameter was used as vessel model. Cell-cell interactions were studied under glucose and anticoagulants influence. Increased adhesiveness of blood cells to tube walls was revealed in patient with coronary heart disease (CHD) compare to practically healthy persons (PHP). In patients with stable angina pectoris of high functional class and patients with AMI shear stress resistant erythrocyte aggregates were predominating in blood flow structure up to microclots formation. Clotting and erythrocytes aggregation increase as response to glucose solution injection, sharply defined in patients with CHD. Heparin injection (10 000 ED) increased linear blood flow velocity both in patients with CHD and PHP. After compare our results with other author's data we can consider that method used in our study is sensible enough to investigate blood flow structure violations in patients with CHD and PHP. Several differences of cell-cell interaction in flow under glucose and anticoagulant influence were found out in patients with CHD and PHP.

  14. Editing of misaligned 3′-termini by an intrinsic 3′–5′ exonuclease activity residing in the PHP domain of a family X DNA polymerase

    PubMed Central

    Baños, Benito; Lázaro, José M.; Villar, Laurentino; de Vega, Miguel

    2008-01-01

    Bacillus subtilis gene yshC encodes a family X DNA polymerase (PolXBs), whose biochemical features suggest that it plays a role during DNA repair processes. Here, we show that, in addition to the polymerization activity, PolXBs possesses an intrinsic 3′–5′ exonuclease activity specialized in resecting unannealed 3′-termini in a gapped DNA substrate. Biochemical analysis of a PolXBs deletion mutant lacking the C-terminal polymerase histidinol phosphatase (PHP) domain, present in most of the bacterial/archaeal PolXs, as well as of this separately expressed protein region, allow us to state that the 3′–5′ exonuclease activity of PolXBs resides in its PHP domain. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis of PolXBs His339 and His341 residues, evolutionary conserved in the PHP superfamily members, demonstrated that the predicted metal binding site is directly involved in catalysis of the exonucleolytic reaction. The implications of the unannealed 3′-termini resection by the 3′–5′ exonuclease activity of PolXBs in the DNA repair context are discussed. PMID:18776221

  15. Who runs public health? A mixed-methods study combining qualitative and network analyses.

    PubMed

    Oliver, Kathryn; de Vocht, Frank; Money, Annemarie; Everett, Martin

    2013-09-01

    Persistent health inequalities encourage researchers to identify new ways of understanding the policy process. Informal relationships are implicated in finding evidence and making decisions for public health policy (PHP), but few studies use specialized methods to identify key actors in the policy process. We combined network and qualitative data to identify the most influential individuals in PHP in a UK conurbation and describe their strategies to influence policy. Network data were collected by asking for nominations of powerful and influential people in PHP (n = 152, response rate 80%), and 23 semi-structured interviews were analysed using a framework approach. The most influential PHP makers in this conurbation were mid-level managers in the National Health Service and local government, characterized by managerial skills: controlling policy processes through gate keeping key organizations, providing policy content and managing selected experts and executives to lead on policies. Public health professionals and academics are indirectly connected to policy via managers. The most powerful individuals in public health are managers, not usually considered targets for research. As we show, they are highly influential through all stages of the policy process. This study shows the importance of understanding the daily activities of influential policy individuals.

  16. Deletion of the Noncoding GNAS Antisense Transcript Causes Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type Ib and Biparental Defects of GNAS Methylation in cis

    PubMed Central

    Chillambhi, Smitha; Turan, Serap; Hwang, Daw-Yang; Chen, Hung-Chun; Jüppner, Harald; Bastepe, Murat

    2010-01-01

    Context: GNAS encodes the α-subunit of the stimulatory G protein as well as additional imprinted transcripts including the maternally expressed NESP55 and the paternally expressed XLαs, antisense, and A/B transcripts. Most patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib) exhibit imprinting defects affecting the maternal GNAS allele, which are thought to reduce/abolish Gsα expression in renal proximal tubules and thereby cause resistance to PTH. Objective: Our objective was to define the genetic defect in a previously unreported family with autosomal dominant PHP-Ib. Design and Setting: Analyses of serum and urine chemistries and of genomic DNA and lymphoblastoid-derived RNA were conducted at a tertiary hospital and research laboratory. Patients: Affected individuals presented with muscle weakness and/or paresthesia and showed hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated serum PTH. Obligate carriers were healthy and revealed no obvious abnormality in mineral ion homeostasis. Results: A novel 4.2-kb microdeletion was discovered in the affected individuals and the obligate carriers, ablating two noncoding GNAS antisense exons while preserving the NESP55 exon. On maternal transmission, the deletion causes loss of all maternal GNAS imprints, partial gain of NESP55 methylation, and PTH resistance. Paternal transmission of the mutation leads to epigenetic alterations in cis, including a partial loss of NESP55 methylation and a partial gain of A/B methylation. Conclusions: The identified deletion points to a unique cis-acting element located telomeric of the NESP55 exon that is critical for imprinting both GNAS alleles. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying PHP and GNAS imprinting. PMID:20444925

  17. Multiplex detection of quality indicator molecule targets in urine using programmable hairpin probes based on a simple double-T type microchip electrophoresis platform and isothermal polymerase-catalyzed target recycling.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Lingying; Gan, Ning; Wu, Yongxiang; Hu, Futao; Lin, Jianyuan; Cao, Yuting; Wu, Dazhen

    2018-05-29

    Recently, it has been crucial to be able to detect and quantify small molecular targets simultaneously in biological samples. Herein, a simple and conventional double-T type microchip electrophoresis (MCE) based platform for the multiplex detection of quality indicator molecule targets in urine, using ampicillin (AMPI), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and estradiol (E2) as models, was developed. Several programmable hairpin probes (PHPs) were designed for detecting different targets and triggering isothermal polymerase-catalyzed target recycling (IPCTR) for signal amplification. Based on the target-responsive aptamer structure of PHP (Domain I), target recognition can induce PHP conformational transition and produce extension duplex DNA (dsDNA), assisted by primers & Bst polymerase. Afterwards, the target can be displaced to react with another PHP and initiate the next cycle. After several rounds of reaction, the dsDNA can be produced in large amounts by IPCTR. Three targets can be simultaneously converted to dsDNA fragments with different lengths, which can be separated and detected using MCE. Thus, a simple double-T type MCE based platform was successfully built for the homogeneous detection of multiplex targets in one channel. Under optimal conditions, the assay exhibited high throughput (48 samples per hour at most, not including reaction time) and sensitivity to three targets in urine with a detection limit of 1 nM (ATP), 0.05 nM (AMPI) and 0.1 nM (E2) respectively. The multiplex assay was successfully employed for the above three targets in several urine samples and combined the advantages of the high specificity of programmable hairpin probes, the excellent signal amplification of IPCTR, and the high through-put of MCE which can be employed for screening in biochemical analysis.

  18. Numerical investigation on pulsating heat pipes with nitrogen or hydrogen

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Y Han, D.; Sun, X.; Gan, Z. H.; Y Luo, R.; Pfotenhauer, J. M.; Jiao, B.

    2017-12-01

    With flexible structure and excellent performance, pulsating heat pipes (PHP) are regarded as a great solution to distribute cooling power for cryocoolers. The experiments on PHPs with cryogenic fluids have been carried out, indicating their efficient performances in cryogenics. There are large differences in physical properties between the fluids at room and cryogenic temperature, resulting in their different heat transfer and oscillation characteristics. Up to now, the numerical investigations on cryogenic fluids have rarely been carried out. In this paper, the model of the closed-loop PHP with multiple liquid slugs and vapor plugs is performed with nitrogen and hydrogen as working fluids, respectively. The effects of heating wall temperature on the performance of close-looped PHPs are investigated and compared with that of water PHP.

  19. Pseudohypoparathyroidism: a rare but important cause of hypocalcaemia

    PubMed Central

    Chong, Pui Lin; Meeking, Darryl R

    2013-01-01

    We present a 46-year-old Caucasian lady with symptomatic hypocalcaemia. Investigations revealed markedly raised parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels with vitamin D deficiency. A number of conditions causing secondary hyperparathyroidism were ruled out from her medical history and initial investigations. The main differential diagnoses were vitamin D deficiency and PTH resistance (pseudohypoparathyroidism, PHP). With high-normal serum phosphate and normal alkaline phosphatase, and a lack of symptoms associated with osteomalacia, vitamin D deficiency alone was unlikely to be the cause of hypocalcaemia. Given a normal physical appearance, genetic testing was arranged and confirmed the diagnosis of PHP type Ib. She is currently taking activated vitamin D to maintain calcium homeostasis. PTH resistance is the hallmark of PHP, a rare complex genetic disorder, which can be easily missed resulting in potentially serious consequences. PMID:23345494

  20. The population health perspective as a framework for studying child maltreatment outcomes.

    PubMed

    Tonmyr, L; MacMillan, H L; Jamieson, E; Kelly, K

    2002-01-01

    The population health perspective (PHP) is commonly used in addressing a wide range of health issues. This article examines the strengths and limitations of the perspective. The determinants of health that are an integral part of the PHP are used as a framework in considering the range of outcomes associated with exposure to child maltreatment. Directions for further research are outlined.

  1. On-line Eclipse Resources from the U.S. Naval Observatory: Planning Ahead for April 2024

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fredericks, Amy C.; Bartlett, J. L.; Bell, S.; Stapleton, J. C.

    2014-01-01

    On 8 April 2024, “…night from mid-day…” (Archilochus, 648 BCE) will appear to fortunate observers along a narrow band, approximately 115 mi (185 km) wide, that crosses fifteen states from Texas to Maine. In response to growing interest in the two total solar eclipses that will sweep the continental United States in the next 11 years, the U.S. Naval Observatory has developed an on-line resource center with direct links to 2024-specific services: the 2024 April 8 Total Solar Eclipse page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2024.php). The Solar Eclipse Computer (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/SolarEclipses.php) calculates tables of local circumstances for events visible throughout the world. A similar service is available for lunar eclipses, Lunar Eclipse Computer (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/LunarEclipse.php). The USNO Eclipse Portal (http://astro.ukho.gov.uk/eclbin/query_usno.cgi) provides diagrams and animations showing the global circumstances for events visible throughout the world and local circumstances for events visible at selected locations. The Web site, which includes both solar and lunar eclipses, is a joint effort with Her Majesty’s Nautical Almanac Office. The Eclipses of the Sun and Moon page (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/UpcomingEclipses.php) links to electronic copies of the visibility maps from The Astronomical Almanac. The Eclipse Reference List (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/faq/docs/eclipse_ref.php) is a representative survey of the available literature for those interested in delving into these phenomena, either technically or historically. As exciting as the 2024 total solar eclipse, another spectacular event will precede it; a total solar eclipse will cross a different swath of the continent on August 21, 2017. The U.S. Naval Observatory has a resource center for that event as well (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/Eclipse2017.php) . If your plans for 2024 are not yet made, visit the 2024 April 8 Total Solar Eclipse page to prepare for up to 4 minutes 31 seconds of “unexampled beauty, grandeur, and impressiveness” (Newcomb 1890) and of darkness.

  2. A comparative evaluation of oral hygiene using Braille and audio instructions among institutionalized visually impaired children aged between 6 years and 20 years: A 3-monthfollow-up study.

    PubMed

    Mahantesha, Taranatha; Nara, Asha; Kumari, Parveen Reddy; Halemani, Praveen Kumar Nugadoni; Buddiga, Vinutna; Mythri, Sarpangala

    2015-12-01

    The aim of this study is to compare the oral hygiene status among institutionalized visually impaired children of age between 6 and 20 years given with Braille and audio instructions in Raichur city of Karnataka. A total of 50 children aged between 6 to 20 years were included in this study from a residential school for visually impaired children. These children were randomly divided into two equal groups. One group was given oral hygiene instructions by audio recordings and another written in Braille and were instructed to practice the same. After three months time the oral hygiene status and dental caries experience was recorded and compared using patient performance index. Statistical analysis was done by student paired t test and multiple comparison by Tukey's HSD (honest significant difference) test. The mean PHP (Patient Hygiene Performance) score of group A at baseline was 3.88 compared to 3.90 of group B. At 7 days PHP score of group A and group B was 3.42 and 3.45 respectively. At 3 month PHP score of group A and group B was 2.47 and 2.86 respectively. Even though over a period of time the mean score of PHP index reduced the score comparison between the 2 groups were statistically non significant. In group A the mean difference of PHP score between baseline and 7 days was 0.46, between baseline and 3 months it was 1.40. The PHP score between 7 days and 3 months was 0.94. All the above values were statistically significant. Effective dental health education method has to be instituted for visually impaired children. The present study shows improvement of oral health status in both the study population by decrease in the mean plaque score. Hence continuous motivation and reinforcement in the form of Braille and audio instruction is beneficial to achieve good oral hygiene levels in visually impaired children.

  3. Efficacy of foot orthoses for the treatment of plantar heel pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Rasenberg, Nadine; Riel, Henrik; Rathleff, Michael S; Bierma-Zeinstra, Sita M A; van Middelkoop, Marienke

    2018-03-19

    Plantar heel pain (PHP) is common. Foot orthoses are often applied as treatment for PHP, even though there is little evidence to support this. To investigate the effects of different orthoses on pain, function and self-reported recovery in patients with PHP and compare them with other conservative interventions. Systematic review and meta-analysis. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL and Google Scholar up to January 2017. Randomised controlled trials comparing foot orthoses with a control (defined as no intervention, sham or other type of conservative treatment) reporting on pain, function or self-reported recovery in patients with PHP. Twenty studies investigating eight different types of foot orthoses were included in the review. Most studies were of high quality. Pooled data from six studies showed no difference between prefabricated orthoses and sham orthoses for pain at short term (mean difference (MD) of 0.26 (95% CI -0.09 to 0.60)). No difference was found between sham orthoses and custom orthoses for pain at short term (MD 0.22 (95% CI -0.05 to 0.50)), nor was there a difference between prefabricated orthoses and custom orthoses for pain at short term (MD 0.03 (95% CI -0.15 to 0.22)). For the majority of other interventions, no significant differences were found. Foot orthoses are not superior for improving pain and function compared with sham or other conservative treatment in patients with PHP. CRD42015029659. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  4. The Maintenance of Synaptic Homeostasis at the Drosophila Neuromuscular Junction Is Reversible and Sensitive to High Temperature.

    PubMed

    Yeates, Catherine J; Zwiefelhofer, Danielle J; Frank, C Andrew

    2017-01-01

    Homeostasis is a vital mode of biological self-regulation. The hallmarks of homeostasis for any biological system are a baseline set point of physiological activity, detection of unacceptable deviations from the set point, and effective corrective measures to counteract deviations. Homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) is a form of neuroplasticity in which neurons and circuits resist environmental perturbations and stabilize levels of activity. One assumption is that if a perturbation triggers homeostatic corrective changes in neuronal properties, those corrective measures should be reversed upon removal of the perturbation. We test the reversibility and limits of HSP at the well-studied Drosophila melanogaster neuromuscular junction (NMJ). At the Drosophila NMJ, impairment of glutamate receptors causes a decrease in quantal size, which is offset by a corrective, homeostatic increase in the number of vesicles released per evoked presynaptic stimulus, or quantal content. This process has been termed presynaptic homeostatic potentiation (PHP). Taking advantage of the GAL4/GAL80 TS /UAS expression system, we triggered PHP by expressing a dominant-negative glutamate receptor subunit at the NMJ. We then reversed PHP by halting expression of the dominant-negative receptor. Our data show that PHP is fully reversible over a time course of 48-72 h after the dominant-negative glutamate receptor stops being genetically expressed. As an extension of these experiments, we find that when glutamate receptors are impaired, neither PHP nor NMJ growth is reliably sustained at high culturing temperatures (30-32°C). These data suggest that a limitation of homeostatic signaling at high temperatures could stem from the synapse facing a combination of challenges simultaneously.

  5. Risk of overweight and obesity in preschoolers attending private and philanthropic schools.

    PubMed

    Nascimento, Viviane Gabriela; Schoeps, Denise de Oliveira; Souza, Sônia Buongermino de; Souza, José Maria Pacheco de; Leone, Claudio

    2011-01-01

    To assess the risk prevalence of overweight and obesity in children enrolled in private and philanthropic preschools in the State of São Paulo. Comparison of two cross sectional studies with children enrolled in private preschools (PPS) or philanthropic (PHP) of the São Paulo Metropolitan Region. Both surveys evaluated the children's environment. To determine the risk of overweight, excess weight and obesity, body mass index (BMI) values were transformed into z scores (according to the World Health Organization - 2006 and 2007). The risk prevalence of overweight (≥ 1 BMIz < 2) in PPS was 21.9% and 24.6% in PHP, with PR = 1.12 (95% CI: 0.96-1.32), without statistical difference. Considering the children with overweight or obesity, (BMIz ≥ 2) the prevalence in PPS was 14.3% and in PHP was 9.0%, with PR = 1.54 (95% CI: 1.23-1.93), p = 0.0002. Overweight and obesity prevalence in males in PPS was 16.4% (n = 409) and in PHP, 11.1% (n = 829), PR = 1.48 (95% CI: 1.10-1.98) and in females it was 12.5% (n = 400) in the PPS and 6.6% (n = 698) in PHP, corresponding to PR = 1.90 (95% CI: 1.30-2.78), both significant differences. Both groups showed a similar and very high prevalence of weight excess. However, overweight and obesity showed a higher prevalence in children from private preschools. This indicates that even though a better socioeconomic level is still a risk factor for overweight and obesity in preschoolers, the same does not seem to occur when analyzing the risk of overweight.

  6. The Maintenance of Synaptic Homeostasis at the Drosophila Neuromuscular Junction Is Reversible and Sensitive to High Temperature

    PubMed Central

    Zwiefelhofer, Danielle J.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Homeostasis is a vital mode of biological self-regulation. The hallmarks of homeostasis for any biological system are a baseline set point of physiological activity, detection of unacceptable deviations from the set point, and effective corrective measures to counteract deviations. Homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) is a form of neuroplasticity in which neurons and circuits resist environmental perturbations and stabilize levels of activity. One assumption is that if a perturbation triggers homeostatic corrective changes in neuronal properties, those corrective measures should be reversed upon removal of the perturbation. We test the reversibility and limits of HSP at the well-studied Drosophila melanogaster neuromuscular junction (NMJ). At the Drosophila NMJ, impairment of glutamate receptors causes a decrease in quantal size, which is offset by a corrective, homeostatic increase in the number of vesicles released per evoked presynaptic stimulus, or quantal content. This process has been termed presynaptic homeostatic potentiation (PHP). Taking advantage of the GAL4/GAL80TS/UAS expression system, we triggered PHP by expressing a dominant-negative glutamate receptor subunit at the NMJ. We then reversed PHP by halting expression of the dominant-negative receptor. Our data show that PHP is fully reversible over a time course of 48–72 h after the dominant-negative glutamate receptor stops being genetically expressed. As an extension of these experiments, we find that when glutamate receptors are impaired, neither PHP nor NMJ growth is reliably sustained at high culturing temperatures (30–32°C). These data suggest that a limitation of homeostatic signaling at high temperatures could stem from the synapse facing a combination of challenges simultaneously. PMID:29255795

  7. Cell-cell interaction in blood flow in patients with coronary heart disease (in vitro study)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Malinova, Lidia I.; Simonenko, Georgy V.; Denisova, Tatyana P.; Tuchin, Valery V.

    2007-02-01

    Blood cell-cell and cell-vessel wall interactions are one of the key patterns in blood and vascular pathophysiology. We have chosen the method of reconstruction of pulsative blood flow in vitro in the experimental set. Blood flow structure was studied by PC integrated video camera with following slide by slide analysis. Studied flow was of constant volumetric blood flow velocity (1 ml/h). Diameter of tube in use was comparable with coronary arteries diameter. Glucose solution and unfractured heparin were used as the nonspecial irritants of studied flow. Erythrocytes space structure in flow differs in all groups of patients in our study (men with stable angina pectoris (SAP), myocardial infarction (MI) and practically healthy men (PHM). Intensity of erythrocytes aggregate formation was maximal in patients with SAP, but time of their "construction/deconstruction" at glucose injection was minimal. Phenomena of primary clotting formation in patients with SAP of high function class was reconstructed under experimental conditions. Heparin injection (10 000 ED) increased linear blood flow velocity both in patients with SAP, MI and PHP but modulated the cell profile in the flow. Received data correspond with results of animal model studies and noninvasive blood flow studies in human. Results of our study reveal differences in blood flow structure in patients with coronary heart disease and PHP under irritating conditions as the possible framework of metabolic model of coronary blood flow destabilization.

  8. Percutaneous Isolated Hepatic Perfusion for the Treatment of Unresectable Liver Malignancies

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

    Burgmans, Mark C., E-mail: m.c.burgmans@lumc.nl; Leede, Eleonora M. de, E-mail: e.m.de-leede@lumc.nl; Martini, Christian H., E-mail: c.h.martini@lumc.nl

    2016-06-15

    Liver malignancies are a major burden of disease worldwide. The long-term prognosis for patients with unresectable tumors remains poor, despite advances in systemic chemotherapy, targeted agents, and minimally invasive therapies such as ablation, chemoembolization, and radioembolization. Thus, the demand for new and better treatments for malignant liver tumors remains high. Surgical isolated hepatic perfusion (IHP) has been shown to be effective in patients with various hepatic malignancies, but is complex, associated with high complication rates and not repeatable. Percutaneous isolated liver perfusion (PHP) is a novel minimally invasive, repeatable, and safer alternative to IHP. PHP is rapidly gaining interest andmore » the number of procedures performed in Europe now exceeds 200. This review discusses the indications, technique and patient management of PHP and provides an overview of the available data.« less

  9. Towards 100,000 CPU Cycle-Scavenging by Genetic Algorithms

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Globus, Al; Biegel, Bryan A. (Technical Monitor)

    2001-01-01

    We examine a web-centric design using standard tools such as web servers, web browsers, PHP, and mySQL. We also consider the applicability of Information Power Grid tools such as the Globus (no relation to the author) Toolkit. We intend to implement this architecture with JavaGenes running on at least two cycle-scavengers: Condor and United Devices. JavaGenes, a genetic algorithm code written in Java, will be used to evolve multi-species reactive molecular force field parameters.

  10. Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion with Melphalan for Unresectable Metastatic Melanoma or Sarcoma to the Liver: A Single Institution Experience

    PubMed Central

    Forster, Meghan R.; Rashid, Omar M.; Perez, Matthew; Choi, Junsung; Chaudhry, Tariq; Zager, Jonathan S.

    2015-01-01

    Background Patients with unresectable melanoma or sarcoma hepatic metastasis have a poor prognosis with few therapeutic options. Percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP), isolating and perfusing the liver with chemotherapy, provides a promising minimally invasive management option. We reviewed our institutional experience with PHP. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with unresectable melanoma or sarcoma hepatic metastasis treated with PHP from 2008 to 2013 and evaluated therapeutic response, morbidity, hepatic progression free survival (hPFS), and overall survival (OS). Results Ten patients were treated with 27 PHPs (median 3). Diagnoses were ocular melanoma (n=5), cutaneous melanoma (n=3), unknown primary melanoma (n=1), and sarcoma (n=1). Median hPFS was 240 days, 9 of 10 patients (90%) demonstrated stable disease or partial response to treatment. At a median follow up of 11.5 months, 4 of 10 (40%) remain alive. There were no perioperative mortalities. Myelosuppresion was the most common morbidity, managed on an outpatient basis with growth factors. The median hospital stay was 3 days. Conclusions Patients with metastatic melanoma and sarcoma to the liver have limited treatment options. Our experience with PHP demonstrates promising results with minimal morbidity and should be considered (pending FDA approval) as a management option for unresectable melanoma or sarcoma hepatic metastasis. PMID:24249545

  11. Petroleum hydrocarbon contamination, plant identity and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) community determine assemblages of the AMF spore-associated microbes.

    PubMed

    Iffis, Bachir; St-Arnaud, Marc; Hijri, Mohamed

    2016-09-01

    The root-associated microbiome is a key determinant of pollutant degradation, soil nutrient availability and plant biomass productivity, but could not be examined in depth prior to recent advances in high-throughput sequencing. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbioses with the majority of vascular plants. They are known to enhance mineral uptake and promote plant growth and are postulated to influence the processes involved in phytoremediation. Amplicon sequencing approaches have previously shown that petroleum hydrocarbon pollutant (PHP) concentration strongly influences AMF community structure in in situ phytoremediation experiments. We examined how AMF communities and their spore-associated microbiomes were structured within the rhizosphere of three plant species growing spontaneously in three distinct waste decantation basins of a former petrochemical plant. Our results show that the AMF community was only affected by PHP concentrations, while the AMF-associated fungal and bacterial communities were significantly affected by both PHP concentrations and plant species identity. We also found that some AMF taxa were either positively or negatively correlated with some fungal and bacterial groups. Our results suggest that in addition to PHP concentrations and plant species identity, AMF community composition may also shape the community structure of bacteria and fungi associated with AMF spores. © 2016 Society for Applied Microbiology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. Simulation and optimization of a pulsating heat pipe using artificial neural network and genetic algorithm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jokar, Ali; Godarzi, Ali Abbasi; Saber, Mohammad; Shafii, Mohammad Behshad

    2016-11-01

    In this paper, a novel approach has been presented to simulate and optimize the pulsating heat pipes (PHPs). The used pulsating heat pipe setup was designed and constructed for this study. Due to the lack of a general mathematical model for exact analysis of the PHPs, a method has been applied for simulation and optimization using the natural algorithms. In this way, the simulator consists of a kind of multilayer perceptron neural network, which is trained by experimental results obtained from our PHP setup. The results show that the complex behavior of PHPs can be successfully described by the non-linear structure of this simulator. The input variables of the neural network are input heat flux to evaporator (q″), filling ratio (FR) and inclined angle (IA) and its output is thermal resistance of PHP. Finally, based upon the simulation results and considering the heat pipe's operating constraints, the optimum operating point of the system is obtained by using genetic algorithm (GA). The experimental results show that the optimum FR (38.25 %), input heat flux to evaporator (39.93 W) and IA (55°) that obtained from GA are acceptable.

  13. Preparation of zeolite nanorods by corona discharge plasma for degradation of phenazopyridine by heterogeneous sono-Fenton-like process.

    PubMed

    Khataee, Alireza; Rad, Tannaz Sadeghi; Vahid, Behrouz; Khorram, Sirous

    2016-11-01

    The plasma-modified clinoptilolite (PMC) nanorods were prepared from natural clinoptilolite (NC) utilizing environmentally-friendly corona discharge plasma. The PMC and NC were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, EDX, XPS and BET, which confirmed the nanocatalyst formation. The catalytic performance of the PMC in the heterogeneous sono-Fenton-like process was greater than the NC for treatment of phenazopyridine (PhP). The desired amounts were obtained for experimental parameters including initial pH (5), PMC dosage (2g/L), K2S2O8 concentration (2mmol/L), ultrasonic power (300W) and PhP concentration (10mg/L). Reactive oxygen species scavengers decreased the removal efficiency of the PhP. The treatment process followed pseudo-first order kinetic and seven degradation intermediates were identified by the GC-MS technique. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Comparison of usual podiatric care and early physical therapy intervention for plantar heel pain: study protocol for a parallel-group randomized clinical trial

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background A significant number of individuals suffer from plantar heel pain (PHP) and many go on to have chronic symptoms and continued disability. Persistence of symptoms adds to the economic burden of PHP and cost-effective solutions are needed. Currently, there is a wide variation in treatment, cost, and outcomes of care for PHP with limited information on the cost-effectiveness and comparisons of common treatment approaches. Two practice guidelines and recent evidence of effective physical therapy intervention are available to direct treatment but the timing and influence of physical therapy intervention in the multidisciplinary management of PHP is unclear. The purpose of this investigation is to compare the outcomes and costs associated with early physical therapy intervention (ePT) following initial presentation to podiatry versus usual podiatric care (uPOD) in individuals with PHP. Methods A parallel-group, block-randomized clinical trial will compare ePT and uPOD. Both groups will be seen initially by a podiatrist before allocation to a group that will receive physical therapy intervention consisting primarily of manual therapy, exercise, and modalities, or podiatric care consisting primarily of a stretching handout, medication, injections, and orthotics. Treatment in each group will be directed by practice guidelines and a procedural manual, yet the specific intervention for each participant will be selected by the treating provider. Between-group differences in the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure 6 months following the initial visit will be the primary outcome collected by an independent investigator. In addition, differences in the European Quality of Life – Five Dimensions, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Global Rating of Change (GROC), health-related costs, and cost-effectiveness at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year will be compared between groups. The association between successful outcomes based on GROC score and participant expectations of recovery generally, and specific to physical therapy and podiatry treatment, will also be analyzed. Discussion This study will be the first pragmatic trial to investigate the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of ePT and uPOD in individuals with PHP. The results will serve to inform clinical practice decisions and management guidelines of multiple disciplines. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01865734 PMID:24299257

  15. Management of hyperparathyroidism (PHP) in MEN2 syndromes in Europe.

    PubMed

    Alevizaki, Maria

    2013-03-14

    Hyperparathyroidism occurs in 20-30% of MEN2A syndrome patients. It is usually associated with mild disease and is frequently asymptomatic, especially in younger age. There is genotype/phenotype association and PHP is usually associated with codon 634 mutations; however association with more "rare" mutations has also been reported. The pathology of the parathyroid glands includes hyperplasia, adenoma or a combination of the two. The optimal surgical management of this entity has not been defined yet.

  16. A pilot study investigating the effect of parathyroidectomy on arterial stiffness and coronary artery calcification in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Dural, Cem; Okoh, Alexis Kofi; Seicean, Andreea; Yigitbas, Hakan; Thomas, George; Yazici, Pinar; Shoenhagen, Paul; Doshi, Krupa; Halliburton, Sandra; Berber, Eren

    2016-01-01

    Arterial stiffness (AS) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) are predictors of cardiovascular risk and can be measured noninvasively. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of parathyroidectomy on AS and CAC in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP). This prospective, institutional review board-approved study included 21 patients with PHP, who underwent parathyroidectomy. Before and 6 months after parathyroidectomy, AS was assessed by measuring central systolic pressure (CSP), central pulse pressure, augmentation pressure (AP), and augmentation index (AIx); the CAC score (Agatston) was calculated on noncontrast computed tomography. AS parameters were compared with unaffected controls from donor nephrectomy database. Preoperative CSP and AIx parameters in PHP patients were higher than those in donor nephrectomy patients (P = .004 and P = .039, respectively). Preoperative total CAC score was zero in 15 patients (65%) and ranged from the 72nd to the 99th percentile in 6 patients (26%). Although there were no changes in CAC or AS after parathyroidectomy on average, there was variability in individual patient responses on AS. This pilot study demonstrates that CAC is not altered in PHP patients at short-term follow-up after parathyroidectomy. The heterogeneous changes in AS after parathyroidectomy warrant further investigation in a larger study with longer follow-up. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Outcomes of low-weight patients with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder and anorexia nervosa at long-term follow-up after treatment in a partial hospitalization program for eating disorders.

    PubMed

    Bryson, Amanda E; Scipioni, Anna M; Essayli, Jamal H; Mahoney, Johnna R; Ornstein, Rollyn M

    2018-05-01

    To assess long-term outcomes of patients with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) treated in a partial hospitalization program (PHP) for eating disorders (ED). A cross-sectional study comparing patients with ARFID to those with anorexia nervosa (AN) who had been discharged from a PHP for at least 12 months was performed. Percent median body mass index (%MBMI), scores on the Children's Eating Attitudes Test (ChEAT), and treatment utilization were assessed, with intake and discharge data collected via retrospective chart review. Of the 137 eligible patients, 62 (45.3%) consented to follow-up data collection. Patients with ARFID and AN exhibited similar increases in %MBMI from intake to discharge and reported low scores on the ChEAT by discharge. Patients with ARFID and AN maintained good weight outcomes and low ChEAT scores at follow-up. Most participants were still receiving outpatient treatment from a variety of providers, although fewer with ARFID than AN continued to receive services from our multidisciplinary ED clinic. Patients with ARFID and AN exhibit similar improvements in %MBMI when treated in the same PHP and appear to maintain treatment gains at long-term follow-up. Additionally, most patients continue to utilize outpatient services after being discharged from a PHP. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Postnatal establishment of allelic Gαs silencing as a plausible explanation for delayed onset of parathyroid hormone-resistance due to heterozygous Gαs disruption

    PubMed Central

    Turan, Serap; Fernandez-Rebollo, Eduardo; Aydin, Cumhur; Zoto, Teuta; Reyes, Monica; Bounoutas, George; Chen, Min; Weinstein, Lee S.; Erben, Reinhold G.; Marshansky, Vladimir; Bastepe, Murat

    2013-01-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type-Ia (PHP-Ia), characterized by renal proximal tubular resistance to parathyroid hormone (PTH), results from maternal mutations of GNAS that lead to loss of Gαs activity. Gαs expression is paternally silenced in the renal proximal tubule, and this genomic event is critical for the development of PTH-resistance, as patients display impaired hormone action only if the mutation is inherited maternally. The primary clinical finding of PHP-Ia is hypocalcemia, which can lead to various neuromuscular defects including seizures. PHP-Ia patients frequently do not present with hypocalcemia until after infancy, but it has remained uncertain whether PTH-resistance occurs in a delayed fashion. Analyzing reported cases of PHP-Ia with documented GNAS mutations and mice heterozygous for disruption of Gnas, we herein determined that the manifestation of PTH-resistance caused by the maternal loss of Gαs, i.e. hypocalcemia and elevated serum PTH, occurs after early postnatal life. To investigate whether this delay could reflect gradual development of paternal Gαs silencing, we then analyzed renal proximal tubules isolated by laser capture microdissection from mice with either maternal or paternal disruption of Gnas. Our results revealed that, whereas expression of Gαs mRNA in this tissue is predominantly from the maternal Gnas allele at weaning (three-weeks postnatal) and in adulthood, the contributions of the maternal and paternal Gnas alleles to Gαs mRNA expression are equal at postnatal day 3. In contrast, we found that paternal Gαs expression is already markedly repressed in brown adipose tissue at birth. Thus, the mechanisms silencing the paternal Gαs allele in renal proximal tubules are not operational during early postnatal development, and this finding correlates well with the latency of PTH-resistance in patients with PHP-Ia. PMID:23956044

  19. Kinetic, Thermodynamic, and Structural Insight into the Mechanism of Phosphopantetheine Adenylyltransferase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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

    Wubben, Thomas J.; Mesecar, Andrew D.; UIC)

    Phosphopantetheine adenylyltransferase (PPAT) catalyzes the penultimate step in the coenzyme A (CoA) biosynthetic pathway, reversibly transferring an adenylyl group from ATP to 4'-phosphopantetheine (PhP) to form dephosphocoenzyme A. This reaction sits at the branch point between the de novo pathway and the salvage pathway, and has been shown to be a rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of CoA. Importantly, bacterial and mammalian PPATs share little sequence homology, making the enzyme a potential target for antibiotic development. A series of steady-state kinetic, product inhibition, and direct binding studies with Mycobacterium tuberculosis PPAT (MtPPAT) was conducted and suggests that the enzyme utilizesmore » a nonrapid-equilibrium random bi-bi mechanism. The kinetic response of MtPPAT to the binding of ATP was observed to be sigmoidal under fixed PhP concentrations, but substrate inhibition was observed at high PhP concentrations under subsaturating ATP concentrations, suggesting a preferred pathway to ternary complex formation. Negative cooperativity in the kinetic response of MtPPAT to PhP binding was observed under certain conditions and confirmed thermodynamically by isothermal titration calorimetry, suggesting the formation of an asymmetric quaternary structure during sequential ligation of substrates. Asymmetry in binding was also observed in isothermal titration calorimetry experiments with dephosphocoenzyme A and CoA. X-ray structures of MtPPAT in complex with PhP and the nonhydrolyzable ATP analogue adenosine-5'-[({alpha},{beta})-methyleno]triphosphate were solved to 1.57 {angstrom} and 2.68 {angstrom}, respectively. These crystal structures reveal small conformational changes in enzyme structure upon ligand binding, which may play a role in the nonrapid-equilibrium mechanism. We suggest that the proposed kinetic mechanism and asymmetric character in MtPPAT ligand binding may provide a means of reaction and pathway regulation in addition to that of the previously determined CoA feedback.« less

  20. [Design and development of an online system of parasite's images for training and evaluation].

    PubMed

    Yuan-Chun, Mao; Sui, Xu; Jie, Wang; Hua-Yun, Zhou; Jun, Cao

    2017-08-08

    To design and develop an online training and evaluation system for parasitic pathogen recognition. The system was based on a Parasitic Diseases Specimen Image Digitization Construction Database by using MYSQL 5.0 as the system of database development software, and PHP 5 as the interface development language. It was mainly used for online training and evaluation of parasitic pathology diagnostic techniques. The system interface was designed simple, flexible, and easy to operate for medical staff. It enabled full day and 24 hours accessible to online training study and evaluation. Thus, the system broke the time and space constraints of the traditional training models. The system provides a shared platform for the professional training of parasitic diseases, and a reference for other training tasks.

  1. The Effects of Anti-Deforestation Programs on Brazil’s Ecological Sustainability Goals and the Implications for the Economic Objectives of the Strategic Partnership with the European Union

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-01

    and Invest, “CDM Markt kompakt,” [CDM Market Compact] Cologne: 2009. 104Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação [Ministry of Science...Challenged,” 395‒424. 128“Designated National Authority (Interministerial Commission on Global Climate Change),” Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e... Tecnologia e Inovação, accessed March 17, 2014, http://mct.gov.br/index.php/content/view/58160.html. 51

  2. [Pseudohypoparathyroidism associated with hyperaldosteronism and polyglobulia].

    PubMed

    Battaia, L; Pedrazzoli, M; Pachor, M L; Bambara, L M; Corrocher, R

    1984-04-07

    A new case of familial PHP, associated with polyglobulia and biochemical parameters of hyperaldosteronism has been described. This association represents a very rare entity. PHP has been documented by the common tests and the unresponsiveness of AMPc to PTH. The poliglobulia , which appears after a period of severe anaemia, needs now periodical blood subtraction; nevertheless a cerebral thrombosis with conseguent hemiparesis has recently occurred. The hyperaldosteronism has been documented by hypopotassiemia , a raised level of plasma aldosterone as well as suppressed plasma renin activity even after adequate stimulus.

  3. Romania’s Intelligence Community: From an Instrument of Dictatorship to Serving Democracy

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-01-01

    Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), (Bucharest, 2004). 32 Profil, nr. 7, March 2005, p. 9. http://www.sri.ro/index.php?nav= biblioteca &subnav=publicatii&tabela...pp. 14–17, http://www.sri.ro/ index.php?nav= biblioteca &subnav=publicatii&tabela=publicatii_bl 66 Interview by Ion Petrescu with General Lieutenant dr... biblioteca &subnav=publicatii&tabela=publicatii_bl 83 Radu Tudor, ‘‘Romania Creates New Counterterrorism Unit,’’ Jane’s Intelligence Review, 1 January 2005

  4. Potential role of Arabidopsis PHP as an accessory subunit of the PAF1 transcriptional cofactor.

    PubMed

    Park, Sunchung; Ek-Ramos, Maria Julissa; Oh, Sookyung; van Nocker, Steven

    2011-08-01

    Paf1C is a transcriptional cofactor that has been implicated in various transcription-associated mechanisms spanning initiation, elongation and RNA processing, and is important for multiple aspects of development in Arabidopsis. Our recent studies suggest Arabidopsis Paf1C is crucial for proper regulation of genes within H3K27me3-enriched chromatin, and that a protein named PHP may act as an accessory subunit of Paf1C that promotes this function.

  5. Theoretical analysis of start-up power in helium pulsating heat pipe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Monan; Huang, Rongjin; Xu, Dong; Li, Laifeng

    2017-02-01

    An analytical model for one-turn helium pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) with single liquid slug and vapor plug is established in present study. When an additional heat power takes place in the evaporating section, temperature and pressure will increase. The pressure wave travels through vapor and liquid phases at different speed, producing a pressure difference in the system, which acts as an exciting force to start up the oscillating motion. Results show that the start-up power of helium PHP is related to the filling ratio. The start-up power increases with the filling ration. However, there exist an upper limit. Furthermore, the start-up power also depends on the inclination angle of PHP. When the inclination angle increases, the heat input needed to start up the oscillating motion decreases. But for one-turn helium PHP, it can not be started up when the inclination angle is up to 90°, equalling to horizontal position,. While the inclination angle ranges between 0° (vertical position) and 75°, it can operate successfully.

  6. DNA replication fidelity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis is mediated by an ancestral prokaryotic proofreader.

    PubMed

    Rock, Jeremy M; Lang, Ulla F; Chase, Michael R; Ford, Christopher B; Gerrick, Elias R; Gawande, Richa; Coscolla, Mireia; Gagneux, Sebastien; Fortune, Sarah M; Lamers, Meindert H

    2015-06-01

    The DNA replication machinery is an important target for antibiotic development in increasingly drug-resistant bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although blocking DNA replication leads to cell death, disrupting the processes used to ensure replication fidelity can accelerate mutation and the evolution of drug resistance. In Escherichia coli, the proofreading subunit of the replisome, the ɛ exonuclease, is essential for high-fidelity DNA replication; however, we find that the corresponding subunit is completely dispensable in M. tuberculosis. Rather, the mycobacterial replicative polymerase DnaE1 itself encodes an editing function that proofreads DNA replication, mediated by an intrinsic 3'-5' exonuclease activity within its PHP domain. Inactivation of the DnaE1 PHP domain increases the mutation rate by more than 3,000-fold. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis of DNA replication proofreading in the bacterial kingdom suggests that E. coli is a phylogenetic outlier and that PHP domain-mediated proofreading is widely conserved and indeed may be the ancestral prokaryotic proofreader.

  7. DNA replication fidelity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis is mediated by an ancestral prokaryotic proofreader

    PubMed Central

    Rock, Jeremy M.; Lang, Ulla F.; Chase, Michael R.; Ford, Christopher B.; Gerrick, Elias R.; Gawande, Richa; Coscolla, Mireia; Gagneux, Sebastien; Fortune, Sarah M.; Lamers, Meindert H.

    2015-01-01

    The DNA replication machinery is an important target for antibiotic development for increasingly drug resistant bacteria including Mycobacterium tuberculosis1. While blocking DNA replication leads to cell death, disrupting the processes used to ensure replication fidelity can accelerate mutation and the evolution of drug resistance. In E. coli, the proofreading subunit of the replisome, the ε-exonuclease, is essential for high fidelity DNA replication2; however, we find that it is completely dispensable in M. tuberculosis. Rather, the mycobacterial replicative polymerase, DnaE1, encodes a novel editing function that proofreads DNA replication, mediated by an intrinsic 3′-5′ exonuclease activity within its PHP domain. Inactivation of the DnaE1 PHP domain increases the mutation rate by greater than 3,000 fold. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis of DNA replication proofreading in the bacterial kingdom suggests that E. coli is a phylogenetic outlier and that PHP-domain mediated proofreading is widely conserved and indeed may be the ancestral prokaryotic proofreader. PMID:25894501

  8. Hypocalcemia development in patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism: Can it be predicted preoperatively?

    PubMed

    Kaya, Cafer; Tam, Abbas Ali; Dirikoç, Ahmet; Kılıçyazgan, Aylin; Kılıç, Mehmet; Türkölmez, Şeyda; Ersoy, Reyhan; Çakır, Bekir

    2016-10-01

    Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is a common endocrine disease, and its most effective treatment is surgery. Postoperative hypocalcemia is a morbidity of parathyroid surgeries, and it may extend hospitalization durations. The purpose of this study is to determine the predictive factors related to the development of hypocalcemia and hungry bone syndrome (HBS) in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP. Laboratory data comprising parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphate, 25-OHD, albumin, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) of the patients were recorded preoperatively, on the 1st and 4th days postoperatively, and in the 6th postoperative month, and their neck ultrasound (US) and bone densitometry data were also recorded. Hypocalcemia was seen in 63 patients (38.4%) on the 1st day after parathyroidectomy. Ten patients (6.1%) had permanent hypocalcemia in the 6th month after surgery. Out of the patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, 22 (13.4%) had HBS. The incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia was higher in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who had osteoporosis. Preoperative PTH, ALP, and BUN values were higher in those patients who developed HBS. Furthermore, HBS was more common in patients who had osteoporosis, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who underwent thyroidectomy simultaneously with parathyroidectomy. As a result, patients who have the risk factors for development of hypocalcemia and HBS should be monitored more attentively during the perioperative period.

  9. Technical implementation of an Internet address database with online maintenance module.

    PubMed

    Mischke, K L; Bollmann, F; Ehmer, U

    2002-01-01

    The article describes the technical implementation and management of the Internet address database of the center for ZMK (University of Münster, Dental School) Münster, which is integrated in the "ZMK-Web" website. The editorially maintained system guarantees its topicality primarily due to the electronically organized division of work with the aid of an online maintenance module programmed in JavaScript/PHP, as well as a database-related feedback function for the visitor to the website through configuration-independent direct mail windows programmed in JavaScript/PHP.

  10. Integration of Personalized Healthcare Pathways in an ICT Platform for Diabetes Managements: A Small-Scale Exploratory Study.

    PubMed

    Fico, Giuseppe; Fioravanti, Alessio; Arredondo, Maria Teresa; Gorman, Joe; Diazzi, Chiara; Arcuri, Giovanni; Conti, Claudio; Pirini, Giampiero

    2016-01-01

    The availability of new tools able to support patient monitoring and personalized care may substantially improve the quality of chronic disease management. A personalized healthcare pathway (PHP) has been developed for diabetes disease management and integrated into an information and communication technology system to accomplish a shift from organization-centered care to patient-centered care. A small-scale exploratory study was conducted to test the platform. Preliminary results are presented that shed light on how the PHP influences system usage and performance outcomes.

  11. Persistence, Transmission, and Virulence Characteristics of Aeromonas Strains in a Duckweed Aquaculture-Based Hospital Sewage Water Recycling Plant in Bangladesh▿

    PubMed Central

    Rahman, Mokhlasur; Huys, Geert; Rahman, Motiur; Albert, M. John; Kühn, Inger; Möllby, Roland

    2007-01-01

    The persistence and transmission of Aeromonas in a duckweed aquaculture-based hospital sewage water treatment plant in Bangladesh was studied. A total of 670 samples from different sites of the hospital sewage water treatment plant, from feces of hospitalized children suffering from diarrhea, from environmental control ponds, and from feces of healthy humans were collected over a period of three years. In total, 1,315 presumptive Aeromonas isolates were biochemically typed by the PhenePlate rapid screening system (PhP-AE). A selection of 90 representative isolates was further analyzed with PhenePlate (PhP) extended typing (PhP-48), fatty acid methyl ester analysis, and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting. In addition, the prevalence of the putative virulence factors hemolysin and cytotoxin and the presence of the cytolytic enterotoxin gene (AHCYTOEN) were analyzed. Aeromonas was found at all sites of the treatment plant, in 40% of the samples from environmental control ponds, in 8.5% of the samples from hospitalized children suffering from diarrhea, and in 3.5% of samples from healthy humans. A significantly high number of Aeromonas bacteria was found in duckweed, which indicates that duckweed may serve as a reservoir for these bacteria. PhP-AE typing allowed identification of more than 192 distinct PhP types, of which 18 major PhP types (MTs) were found in multiple sites and during several occasions. AFLP fingerprinting revealed the prevalence of genotypically indistinguishable Aeromonas isolates among certain PhP MTs recovered from different sampling occasions and/or at multiple sites. Hemolytic and cytotoxic activities were observed in 43% of the tested strains, whereas 29% possessed the cytolytic enterotoxin gene AHCYTOEN. Collectively, two specific MTs associated with diarrhea were shown to exhibit high cytotoxicity. Furthermore, all tested isolates of these major types were positive for the cytolytic enterotoxin gene. In conclusion, our data indicate that certain phenotypically and genotypically stable clonal lineages of Aeromonas have persisted in the treatment system for a prolonged period and might spread from the hospitalized children suffering from diarrhea to fish produced for human consumption through the sewage water treatment system. PMID:17194839

  12. GOBASE—a database of mitochondrial and chloroplast information

    PubMed Central

    O'Brien, Emmet A.; Badidi, Elarbi; Barbasiewicz, Ania; deSousa, Cristina; Lang, B. Franz; Burger, Gertraud

    2003-01-01

    GOBASE is a relational database containing integrated sequence, RNA secondary structure and biochemical and taxonomic information about organelles. GOBASE release 6 (summer 2002) contains over 130 000 mitochondrial sequences, an increase of 37% over the previous release, and more than 30 000 chloroplast sequences in a new auxiliary database. To handle this flood of new data, we have designed and implemented GOpop, a Java system for population and verification of the database. We have also implemented a more powerful and flexible user interface using the PHP programming language. http://megasun.bch.umontreal.ca/gobase/gobase.html. PMID:12519975

  13. The use of an optical method to evaluate prokaryotic oxygen consumption under high pressure condition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garel, M.; Martini, S.; Lefèvre, D.; Tamburini, C.

    2016-02-01

    The heterotrophic prokaryotes are the main contributor to organic matter degradation in the ocean and particularly in the deep ocean. Nowadays, a classical way to evaluate the prokaryotic carbon demand (PCD) needs the estimation of both prokaryotic heterotrophic production (PHP) and prokaryotic respiration (PR). PHP measurements in deep-sea waters are relatively well documented and the importance of maintaining the in situ conditions (pressure and temperature) to avoid bias of the real deep-sea activities has been highlighted. However, no accurate methodology is available to measure directly, under in situ conditions (pressure and temperature) PR in the dark ocean. This study is presenting PR measurements under in situ conditions. High-pressure bottles have been adapted with a non-invasive sensor to measure prokaryotic oxygen consumption. The methodology is based on fluorescence quenching where molecular oxygen quenches the luminescence of planar-optode-oxygen sensor widely used in oceanography. Firstly, accuracy, detection limit, precision and response time of oxygen concentration measurements have been investigated in relation to an increase of hydrostatic pressure. Secondly, we will present experiments performed on natural prokaryotic consortium mixed with freshly collected particles to assess the O2 consumption in relation with increasing hydrostatic pressure (150 m depth per day). Finally, first results of coupled PHP and PR measurements at in situ conditions (temperature and pressure) from mesopelagic and bathypelagic samples of the Atlantic Ocean (PAP site), will be discussed. Finally, we will discuss first results of coupled PHP and PR measurements at in situ conditions (temperature and pressure) from Atlantic Ocean mesopelagic and bathypelagic samples (PAP site).

  14. Experimental study of Large-scale cryogenic Pulsating Heat Pipe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barba, Maria; Bruce, Romain; Bonelli, Antoine; Baudouy, Bertrand

    2017-12-01

    Pulsating Heat Pipes (PHP) are passive two-phase heat transfer devices consisting of a long capillary tube bent into many U-turns connecting the condenser part to the evaporator part. They are thermally driven by an oscillatory flow of liquid slugs and vapor plugs coming from phase changes and pressure differences along the tube. The coupling of hydrodynamic and thermodynamic effects allows high heat transfer performances. Three closed-loop pulsating heat pipes have been developed by the DACM (Department of Accelerators, Cryogenics and Magnetism) of CEA Paris-Saclay, France. Each PHP measures 3.7 meters long (0.35 m for the condenser and the evaporator and 3 m for the adiabatic part), being almost 20 times longer than the longest cryogenic PHP tested. These PHPs have 36, 22 and 12 parallel channels. Numerous tests have been performed in horizontal position (the closest configuration to non-gravity) using nitrogen as working fluid, operating between 75 and 90 K. The inner and outer diameters of the stainless steel capillary tubes are 1.5 and 2 mm respectively. The PHPs were operated at different filling ratios (20 to 90 %), heat input powers (3 to 20 W) and evaporator and condenser temperatures (75 to 90 K). As a result, the PHP with 36 parallel channels achieves a certain level of stability during more than thirty minutes with an effective thermal conductivity up to 200 kW/m.K at 10 W heat load and during forty minutes with an effective thermal conductivity close to 300 kW/m.K at 5 W heat load.

  15. New superhindered polydentate polyphosphine ligands P(CH2CH2P(t)Bu2)3, PhP(CH2CH2P(t)Bu2)2, P(CH2CH2CH2P(t)Bu2)3, and their ruthenium(II) chloride complexes.

    PubMed

    Gilbert-Wilson, Ryan; Field, Leslie D; Bhadbhade, Mohan M

    2012-03-05

    The synthesis and characterization of the extremely hindered phosphine ligands, P(CH(2)CH(2)P(t)Bu(2))(3) (P(2)P(3)(tBu), 1), PhP(CH(2)CH(2)P(t)Bu(2))(2) (PhP(2)P(2)(tBu), 2), and P(CH(2)CH(2)CH(2)P(t)Bu(2))(3) (P(3)P(3)(tBu), 3) are reported, along with the synthesis and characterization of ruthenium chloro complexes RuCl(2)(P(2)P(3)(tBu)) (4), RuCl(2)(PhP(2)P(2)(tBu)) (5), and RuCl(2)(P(3)P(3)(tBu)) (6). The bulky P(2)P(3)(tBu) (1) and P(3)P(3)(tBu) (3) ligands are the most sterically encumbered PP(3)-type ligands so far synthesized, and in all cases, only three phosphorus donors are able to bind to the metal center. Complexes RuCl(2)(PhP(2)P(2)(tBu)) (5) and RuCl(2)(P(3)P(3)(tBu)) (6) were characterized by crystallography. Low temperature solution and solid state (31)P{(1)H} NMR were used to demonstrate that the structure of RuCl(2)(P(2)P(3)(tBu)) (4) is probably analogous to that of RuCl(2)(PhP(2)P(2)(tBu)) (5) which had been structurally characterized.

  16. The role of the PHP domain associated with DNA polymerase X from Thermus thermophilus HB8 in base excision repair.

    PubMed

    Nakane, Shuhei; Nakagawa, Noriko; Kuramitsu, Seiki; Masui, Ryoji

    2012-11-01

    Base excision repair (BER) is one of the most commonly used DNA repair pathways involved in genome stability. X-family DNA polymerases (PolXs) play critical roles in BER, especially in filling single-nucleotide gaps. In addition to a polymerase core domain, bacterial PolXs have a polymerase and histidinol phosphatase (PHP) domain with phosphoesterase activity which is also required for BER. However, the role of the PHP domain of PolX in bacterial BER remains unresolved. We found that the PHP domain of Thermus thermophilus HB8 PolX (ttPolX) functions as two types of phosphoesterase in BER, including a 3'-phosphatase and an apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease. Experiments using T. thermophilus HB8 cell lysates revealed that the majority of the 3'-phosphatase and AP endonuclease activities are attributable to the another phosphoesterase in T. thermophilus HB8, endonuclease IV (ttEndoIV). However, ttPolX possesses significant 3'-phosphatase activity in ΔttendoIV cell lysate, indicating possible complementation. Our experiments also reveal that there are only two enzymes that display the 3'-phosphatase activity in the T. thermophilus HB8 cell, ttPolX and ttEndoIV. Furthermore, phenotypic analysis of ΔttpolX, ΔttendoIV, and ΔttpolX/ΔttendoIV using hydrogen peroxide and sodium nitrite supports the hypothesis that ttPolX functions as a backup for ttEndoIV in BER. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Pseudohypoparathyroidism vs. tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome: patient reclassification.

    PubMed

    Pereda, Arrate; Azriel, Sharona; Bonet, Mariona; Garin, Intza; Gener, Blanca; Lecumberri, Beatriz; de Nanclares, Guiomar Pérez

    2014-11-01

    Given that tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome (TRPS) and pseudohypoparathyroidism/pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP/PPHP) are very rare monogenic disorders that share some features (distinctive facies, short stature, brachydactyly and, in some patients, intellectual disability) that lead to their misdiagnosis in some cases, our objective was to identify clinical, biochemical or radiological signs that could help to distinguish these two syndromes. We report on two cases, which were referred to the Endocrinology and Pediatric Endocrinology Services for obesity. Clinical evaluation initially suggested the diagnosis of PHP-Ia [phenotype suggestive of Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) with parathyroid hormone (PTH) resistance] and PPHP (phenotype resembling AHO, without PTH resistance), but (epi)genetic analysis of the GNAS locus ruled out the suspected diagnosis. Further clinical re-evaluation prompted us to suspect TRPS, and this was confirmed genetically. TRPS was mistakenly identified as PHP/PPHP because of the coexistence of obesity and brachydactyly, with PTH resistance in one of the cases. Specific traits such as sparse scalp hair and a pear-shaped nose, present in both cases, can be considered pathognomonic signs of TRPS, which could help us to reach a correct diagnosis.

  18. Evaluation of Delcath Systems' Generation 2 (GEN 2) melphalan hemofiltration system in a porcine model of percutaneous hepatic perfusion.

    PubMed

    Moeslein, Fred M; McAndrew, Elizabeth G; Appling, William M; Hryniewich, Nicole E; Jarvis, Kevin D; Markos, Steven M; Sheets, Timothy P; Uzgare, Rajneesh P; Johnston, Daniel S

    2014-06-01

    A new melphalan hemoperfusion filter (GEN 2) was evaluated in a simulated-use porcine model of percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP). The current study evaluated melphalan filtration efficiency, the transfilter pressure gradient, and the removal of specific blood products. A porcine PHP procedure using the GEN 2 filter was performed under Good Laboratory Practice conditions to model the 60-min clinical PHP procedure. The mean filter efficiency for removing melphalan in six filters was 99.0 ± 0.4 %. The transfilter pressure gradient across the filter averaged 20.9 mmHg for the 60-min procedure. Many blood components, including albumin and platelets, decreased on average from 3.55 to 2.02 g/dL and from 342 to 177 × 10.e3/μL, respectively, during the procedure. The increased melphalan extraction efficiency of the new filter is expected to decrease systemic melphalan exposure. In addition, the low transfilter pressure gradient resulted in low resistance to blood flow in the GEN 2 filter, and the changes to blood components are expected to be clinically manageable.

  19. Comparison of response times of a mobile-web EHRs system using PHP and JSP languages.

    PubMed

    De la Torre-Díez, Isabel; Antón-Rodríguez, Míriam; Díaz-Pernas, Francisco Javier; Perozo-Rondón, Freddy José

    2012-12-01

    Performance evaluation is highly important in the Electronic Health Records (EHRs) system implementation. Response time's measurement can be considered as one manner to make that evaluation. In the e-health field, after the creation of EHRs available through different platforms such as Web and/or mobile, a performance evaluation is necessary. The operation of the system in the right way is essential. In this paper, a comparison of the response times for the MEHRmobile system is presented. The first version uses PHP language with a MySQL database and the second one employs JSP with an eXist database. Both versions have got the same functionalities. In addition to the technological aspects, a significant difference is the way the information is stored. The main goal of this paper is choosing the version which offers better response times. We have created a new benchmark to calculate the response times. Better results have been obtained for the PHP version. Nowadays, this version is being used for specialists from Fundación Intras, Spain.

  20. Pretreating wheat straw by phosphoric acid plus hydrogen peroxide for enzymatic saccharification and ethanol production at high solid loading.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Jingwen; Ma, Lunjie; Shen, Fei; Yang, Gang; Zhang, Yanzong; Deng, Shihuai; Zhang, Jing; Zeng, Yongmei; Hu, Yaodong

    2017-08-01

    Wheat straw was pretreated by phosphoric acid plus hydrogen peroxide (PHP) for enzymatic hydrolysis and ethanol fermentation at high solid loadings. Results indicated solid loading could reach 20% with 77.4% cellulose-glucose conversion and glucose concentration of 164.9g/L in hydrolysate, it even was promoted to 25% with only 3.4% decrease on cellulose-glucose conversion as the pretreated-wheat straw was dewatered by air-drying. 72.9% cellulose-glucose conversion still was achieved as the minimized enzyme input of 20mg protein/g cellulose was employed for hydrolysis at 20% solid loading. In the corresponding conditions, 100g wheat straw can yield 11.2g ethanol with concentration of 71.2g/L by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation. Thus, PHP-pretreatment benefitted the glucose or ethanol yield at high solid loadings with lower enzyme input. Additionally, decreases on the maximal cellulase adsorption and the direct-orange/direct-blue indicated drying the PHP-pretreated substrates negatively affected the hydrolysis due to the shrinkage of cellulase-size-accommodable pores. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Nazca Lines, Peru

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    Acquisition Date: November 10, 2002 In the desert of southwest Peru, between the Andes Mountains and the Peruvian coast, lies a plateau with huge geometric patterns and spirals, animal figures including a monkey, a spider, and an 'owl man,' and thousands of perfectly straight lines. The last of these was drawn about a thousand years ago. Known as the Nazca lines, the drawings have mystified scientists since they were first discovered in the 1920s. Pictured here is all that can be seen of these lines by Landsat 7's 15 meter pan band, which has been used to sharpen the 30 meter Bands 3, 2, and 1. Credit: NASA/GSFC/Landsat/USGS To learn more about Landsat and to see the orginal high res file go to: landsat.usgs.gov/gallery_view.php?category=greenflag&...

  2. Applying an MVC Framework for The System Development Life Cycle with Waterfall Model Extended

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hardyanto, W.; Purwinarko, A.; Sujito, F.; Masturi; Alighiri, D.

    2017-04-01

    This paper describes the extension of the waterfall model using MVC architectural pattern for software development. The waterfall model is the based model of the most widely used in software development, yet there are still many problems in it. The general issue usually happens on data changes that cause the delays on the process itself. On the other hand, the security factor on the software as well as one of the major problems. This study uses PHP programming language for implementation. Although this model can be implemented in several programming languages with the same concept. This study is based on MVC architecture so that it can improve the performance of both software development and maintenance, especially concerning security, validation, database access, and routing.

  3. ViralEpi v1.0: a high-throughput spectrum of viral epigenomic methylation profiles from diverse diseases.

    PubMed

    Khan, Mohd Shoaib; Gupta, Amit Kumar; Kumar, Manoj

    2016-01-01

    To develop a computational resource for viral epigenomic methylation profiles from diverse diseases. Methylation patterns of Epstein-Barr virus and hepatitis B virus genomic regions are provided as web platform developed using open source Linux-Apache-MySQL-PHP (LAMP) bundle: programming and scripting languages, that is, HTML, JavaScript and PERL. A comprehensive and integrated web resource ViralEpi v1.0 is developed providing well-organized compendium of methylation events and statistical analysis associated with several diseases. Additionally, it also facilitates 'Viral EpiGenome Browser' for user-affable browsing experience using JavaScript-based JBrowse. This web resource would be helpful for research community engaged in studying epigenetic biomarkers for appropriate prognosis and diagnosis of diseases and its various stages.

  4. A synthetic cannabinoid FDU-NNEI, two 2H-indazole isomers of synthetic cannabinoids AB-CHMINACA and NNEI indazole analog (MN-18), a phenethylamine derivative N-OH-EDMA, and a cathinone derivative dimethoxy-α-PHP, newly identified in illegal products.

    PubMed

    Uchiyama, Nahoko; Shimokawa, Yoshihiko; Kikura-Hanajiri, Ruri; Demizu, Yosuke; Goda, Yukihiro; Hakamatsuka, Takashi

    Six new psychoactive substances were identified together with two other substances (compounds 1 - 8 ) in illegal products by our ongoing survey in Japan between January and July 2014. A new synthetic cannabinoid, FDU-NNEI [1-(4-fluorobenzyl)- N -(naphthalen-1-yl)-1 H -indole-3-carboxamide, 2 ], was detected with the newly distributed synthetic cannabinoid FDU-PB-22 ( 1 ). Two 2 H -indazole isomers of synthetic cannabinoids, AB-CHMINACA 2 H -indazole analog ( 3 ) and NNEI 2 H -indazole analog ( 4 ), were newly identified with 1 H -indazoles [AB-CHMINACA and NNEI indazole analog (MN-18)]. In addition, 2-methylpropyl N -(naphthalen-1-yl) carbamate ( 5 ) and isobutyl 1-pentyl-1 H -indazole-3-carboxylate ( 6 ) were detected in illegal products. Compound 6 is considered to be a by-product of the preparation of NNEI indazole analog from compound 5 and 1-pentyl-1 H -indazole. A phenethylamine derivative, N -OH-EDMA [ N -hydroxy-3,4-ethylenedioxy- N -methylamphetamine, 7 ], and a cathinone derivative, dimethoxy-α-PHP (dimethoxy-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone, 8 ), were newly identified in illegal products. Among them, compounds 1 and 8 have been controlled as designated substances (Shitei-Yakubutsu) under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law in Japan since August and November 2014, respectively.

  5. An analysis of whether surgeon-performed neck ultrasound can be used as the main localizing study in primary hyperparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Aliyev, Shamil; Agcaoglu, Orhan; Aksoy, Erol; Birsen, Onur; Milas, Mira; Mitchell, Jamie; Siperstein, Allan; Berber, Eren

    2014-11-01

    Tc-99 sestamibi (MIBI) scan is the imaging study most frequently used in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP). Transcutaneous cervical ultrasonography (US) is the other modality used for preoperative localization. The aim of this study was to determine whether surgeon-performed neck US can be used as the primary localizing study in PHP. This was a prospective study of 1,000 consecutive patients with first-time, sporadic PHP who underwent parathyroidectomy at a tertiary academic center. All patients had surgeon-performed neck US and MIBI before bilateral neck exploration. The findings at exploration were 72% single adenoma, 15% double adenoma, and 13% hyperplasia. When US suggested single-gland disease (n = 842), MIBI was concordant in 82.5%, discordant and false in 8%, negative in 7%, and discordant but correct in 2.5%. When US suggested multigland disease (n = 68), MIBI was concordant in 47%, discordant and false in 41%, and negative in 12%. When US was negative (n = 90), MIBI was positive and correct in 43%, negative in 31%, and positive but false in 26%. Surgeon-performed neck US identified unrecognized thyroid nodules in 326 patients (33%), which led to fine-needle aspiration biopsy in 161 (49%) patients and thyroid surgery in 103 (32%) patients, with a final diagnosis of thyroid cancer in 24 (7%) patients. Our results show that MIBI provides additional useful information in only a minority of patients with a positive US in PHP. Nevertheless, MIBI benefits about half of patients with a negative US. Because one-third of this patient population has unrecognized thyroid nodules as well, we propose that the most cost-effective algorithm would be to do US first and reserve MIBI for US-negative cases. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Validation of criteria for selective his bundle and para-hisian permanent pacing.

    PubMed

    Cantù, F; De Filippo, P; Cardano, P; De Luca, A; Gavazzi, A

    2006-12-01

    His Bundle (HB) pacing is a valid alternative to right ventricular pacing for patients with preserved His-ventricle conduction who are candidates for permanent stimulation. Permanent pacing in the HB area enables Selective HB pacing (SHBP) or para-Hisian pacing (PHP) to be achieved. The aim of our study was to draw up a set of easy criteria to differentiate and validate the two kinds of stimulations according to the pacing output and the ECG/EKG signals. From February to July 2005, 17 patients eligible for a pacemaker (PM) procedure underwent implantation with the Medtronic SelectSecure lead (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) screwed into the HB area.SHBP was defined when the intrinsic QRS was equal, in both duration and morphology, to the paced QRS, the His-Ventricular (H-V) interval was equal to Pace-Ventricular interval (Vp-V) and, at low output, only the HB was captured, while increasing the output resulted in both the HB and right ventricular (RV) being captured (widening of QRS at high output). Conversely, PHP was defined when the intrinsic QRS differed from the paced one, either in morphology or in duration and, at high output, both the RV and HB were captured (non-SHBP), while decreasing the output resulted in losing HB capture (widening of QRS at low output). According to these criteria, SHBP was achieved in 11 patients, while in the remaining 6, PHP was obtained. No adverse events were reported. The above criteria enabled SHBP and PHP to be validated easily and clearly. A longer follow-up will be needed in order to ascertain whether the clinical outcome of these two approaches differs.

  7. Hypoglycemic effect of polysaccharides with different molecular weight of Pseudostellaria heterophylla

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Abstracts Background The aims of this study were to evaluate the antidiabetic activity and to detect molecular size of Pseudostellaria heterophylla polysaccharide (PHP). Pseudostellaria heterophylla is a medicine extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine formulas to treat diabetes and its complications. Methods Molecular weight of PHP was determined by gel permeation chromatography combined with phenol-sulphuric acid method and the monosaccharides composition was determined by HPLC with a precolumn derivatization. Four polysaccharides with different molecular weight were compared for hypoglycemic active on two animal models both high does alloxan induced type1 diabetic mellitus (T1DM) and high-fat/lower does streptozotocin induced type2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM). Blood sugar, glucose tolerance, and insulin tolerance were detected. Rat serum IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10, Leptin, TNF-α, Acrp30 and CRP were also analyzed by sandwich-ELISA approaches to preliminary probe the hypoglycemic mechanism of PHP. Results The hypoglycemic effects related to molecular size of polysaccharide were more effective against T2DM than T1DM. PHP comprise four monosaccharides of galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose and arabinos. T2DM rats daily receiving oral dose of polysaccharide(100 ~ 400 mg/kg) with 50 ~ 210 kDa molecular weight (PF40) could not only significantly lower blood sugar but also reduce total triglyceride level in serum. PF40 improves in insulin tolerance inhibited the expression of some biomarkers including inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and elevated anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, regulated adiponectin Acrp30 and leptin. Conclusions PF40 prevent the cascade of inflammatory events in the treatment of T2DM to block overweight progresses to obesity. PMID:24131482

  8. Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion (PHP) with Melphalan as a Treatment for Unresectable Metastases Confined to the Liver.

    PubMed

    de Leede, Eleonora M; Burgmans, Mark C; Martini, Christian H; Tijl, Fred G J; van Erkel, Arian R; Vuyk, Jaap; Kapiteijn, Ellen; Verhoef, Cornelis; van de Velde, Cornelis J H; Vahrmeijer, Alexander L

    2016-07-31

    Unresectable liver metastases of colorectal cancer can be treated with systemic chemotherapy, aiming to limit the disease, extend survival or turn unresectable metastases into resectable ones. Some patients however, suffer from side effects or progression under systemic treatment. For patients with metastasized uveal melanoma there are no standard systemic therapy options. For patients without extrahepatic disease, isolated liver perfusion (IHP) may enable local disease control with limited systemic side effects. Previously, this was performed during open surgery with satisfying results, but morbidity and mortality related to the open procedure, prohibited a widespread application. Therefore, percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) with simultaneous chemofiltration was developed. Besides decreasing morbidity and mortality, this procedure can be repeated, hopefully leading to a higher response rate and improved survival (by local control of disease). During PHP, catheters are placed in the proper hepatic artery, to infuse the chemotherapeutic agent, and in the inferior caval vein to aspirate the chemosaturated blood returning through the hepatic veins. The caval vein catheter is a double balloon catheter that prohibits leakage into the systemic circulation. The blood returning from the hepatic veins is aspirated through the catheter fenestrations and then perfused through an extra-corporeal filtration system. After filtration, the blood is returned to the patient by a third catheter in the right internal jugular vein. During PHP a high dose of melphalan is infused into the liver, which is toxic and would lead to life threatening complications when administered systemically. Because of the significant hemodynamic instability resulting from the combination of caval vein occlusion and chemofiltration, hemodynamic monitoring and hemodynamic support is of paramount importance during this complex procedure.

  9. Basal Hippocampal Activity and Its Functional Connectivity Predicts Cocaine Relapse

    PubMed Central

    Adinoff, Bryon; Gu, Hong; Merrick, Carmen; McHugh, Meredith; Jeon-Slaughter, Haekyung; Lu, Hanzhang; Yang, Yihong; Stein, Elliot A.

    2017-01-01

    BACKGROUND Cocaine-induced neuroplastic changes may result in a heightened propensity for relapse. Using regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) as a marker of basal neuronal activity, this study assessed alterations in rCBF and related resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) to prospectively predict relapse in patients following treatment for cocaine use disorder (CUD). METHODS Pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling functional magnetic resonance imaging and resting blood oxygen level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired in the same scan session in abstinent participants with CUD before residential treatment discharge and in 20 healthy matched control subjects. Substance use was assessed twice weekly following discharge. Relapsed participants were defined as those who used stimulants within 30 days following treatment discharge (n = 22); early remission participants (n = 18) did not. RESULTS Voxel-wise, whole-brain analysis revealed enhanced rCBF only in the left posterior hippocampus (pHp) in the relapsed group compared with the early remission and control groups. Using this pHp as a seed, increased rsFC strength with the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC)/precuneus was seen in the relapsed versus early remission subgroups. Together, both increased pHp rCBF and strengthened pHp-PCC rsFC predicted relapse with 75% accuracy at 30, 60, and 90 days following treatment. CONCLUSIONS In CUD participants at risk of early relapse, increased pHp basal activity and pHp-PCC circuit strength may reflect the propensity for heightened reactivity to cocaine cues and persistent cocaine-related ruminations. Mechanisms to mute hyperactivated brain regions and delink dysregulated neural circuits may prove useful to prevent relapse in patients with CUD. PMID:25749098

  10. Application of chitosan microparticles for reduction of vibrio species in seawater and live oysters (Crassostrea virginica).

    PubMed

    Fang, Lei; Wolmarans, Bernhard; Kang, Minyoung; Jeong, Kwang C; Wright, Anita C

    2015-01-01

    Human Vibrio infections associated with consumption of raw shellfish greatly impact the seafood industry. Vibrio cholerae-related disease is occasionally attributed to seafood, but V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus are the primary targets of postharvest processing (PHP) efforts in the United States, as they pose the greatest threat to the industry. Most successful PHP treatments for Vibrio reduction also kill the molluscs and are not suitable for the lucrative half-shell market, while nonlethal practices are generally less effective. Therefore, novel intervention strategies for Vibrio reduction are needed for live oyster products. Chitosan is a bioactive derivative of chitin that is generally recognized as safe as a food additive by the FDA, and chitosan microparticles (CMs) were investigated in the present study as a potential PHP treatment for live oyster applications. Treatment of broth cultures with 0.5% (wt/vol) CMs resulted in growth cessation of V. cholerae, V. vulnificus, and V. parahaemolyticus, reducing culturable levels to nondetectable amounts after 3 h in three independent experiments. Furthermore, a similar treatment in artificial seawater at 4, 25, and 37°C reduced V. vulnificus levels by ca. 7 log CFU/ml after 24 h of exposure, but 48 h of exposure and elevated temperature were required to achieve similar results for V. parahaemolyticus and V. cholerae. Live oysters that either were artificially inoculated or contained natural populations of V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus showed significant and consistent reductions following CM treatment (5%) compared to the amounts in the untreated controls. Thus, the results strongly support the promising potential for the application of CMs as a PHP treatment to reduce Vibrio spp. in intact live oysters. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  11. NEMiD: a web-based curated microbial diversity database with geo-based plotting.

    PubMed

    Bhattacharjee, Kaushik; Joshi, Santa Ram

    2014-01-01

    The majority of the Earth's microbes remain unknown, and that their potential utility cannot be exploited until they are discovered and characterized. They provide wide scope for the development of new strains as well as biotechnological uses. The documentation and bioprospection of microorganisms carry enormous significance considering their relevance to human welfare. This calls for an urgent need to develop a database with emphasis on the microbial diversity of the largest untapped reservoirs in the biosphere. The data annotated in the North-East India Microbial database (NEMiD) were obtained by the isolation and characterization of microbes from different parts of the Eastern Himalayan region. The database was constructed as a relational database management system (RDBMS) for data storage in MySQL in the back-end on a Linux server and implemented in an Apache/PHP environment. This database provides a base for understanding the soil microbial diversity pattern in this megabiodiversity hotspot and indicates the distribution patterns of various organisms along with identification. The NEMiD database is freely available at www.mblabnehu.info/nemid/.

  12. NEMiD: A Web-Based Curated Microbial Diversity Database with Geo-Based Plotting

    PubMed Central

    Bhattacharjee, Kaushik; Joshi, Santa Ram

    2014-01-01

    The majority of the Earth's microbes remain unknown, and that their potential utility cannot be exploited until they are discovered and characterized. They provide wide scope for the development of new strains as well as biotechnological uses. The documentation and bioprospection of microorganisms carry enormous significance considering their relevance to human welfare. This calls for an urgent need to develop a database with emphasis on the microbial diversity of the largest untapped reservoirs in the biosphere. The data annotated in the North-East India Microbial database (NEMiD) were obtained by the isolation and characterization of microbes from different parts of the Eastern Himalayan region. The database was constructed as a relational database management system (RDBMS) for data storage in MySQL in the back-end on a Linux server and implemented in an Apache/PHP environment. This database provides a base for understanding the soil microbial diversity pattern in this megabiodiversity hotspot and indicates the distribution patterns of various organisms along with identification. The NEMiD database is freely available at www.mblabnehu.info/nemid/. PMID:24714636

  13. Broadband Photometry Of The Potentially Asteroid 277475 (2005 WK4) and Corrected 52762 (1998 MT24) Colors.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hicks, M.; Buratt, B.; Carcione, A.; Borlase, R.

    2013-08-01

    The Near-Earth Object (NEO) 277475 (2005 WK4) was discovered by the Siding Spring Survey (MPEC 2005-W79) on November 27, 2005. With a Minimum Orbit Intersection Distance (MOID) of 0.004 AU and absolute magnitude H_V=20.1 mag, this object has been designated a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA) by the Minor Planet Center. The asteroid made an Earth close-approach of 0.021 AU on August 09.2, 2013 and was extensively imaged by the JPL Planetary Radar Team ( http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news.php?release=2013-254 ).

  14. Misconceptions as necessary stepping stones

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Blanton, Patricia

    2010-04-01

    I've been reading an online book called Ready, Set, Science! Putting Research to Work in K-8 Science Classrooms (www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=11882) and have found the discussion very enlightening. I think that any beginning science teacher might want to look at this book for guidance in designing lessons and managing student discussions to help students become more thoughtful, productive, and independent learners. While the book gives examples of K-8 classrooms, the examples of classroom discourse could serve as a road map for teachers at any level who want to make their classrooms more student centered and a place where all learners are actively engaged.

  15. Beauty production at HERA

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

    Yagues, A.

    Beauty quark production in ep collisions is being studied at HERA. The latest results in deep inelastic scattering (DIS) and photoproduction (PHP) regime performed by the ZEUS and HI experiments are presented here. The first measurement exploits the potential of the ZEUS mi-crovertex detector to identify beauty in PHP dijet events in an inclusive analysis. In the second measurement, beauty quarks were identified through their decays into muons. Finally, two measurements of the beauty contribution to the proton structure function, F{sub 2}{sup b???b}, in DIS are presented. The four measurements are consistent with previous results and are reasonably well describedmore » by QCD predictions.« less

  16. GEOMAGIA50: An archeointensity database with PHP and MySQL

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Korhonen, K.; Donadini, F.; Riisager, P.; Pesonen, L. J.

    2008-04-01

    The GEOMAGIA50 database stores 3798 archeomagnetic and paleomagnetic intensity determinations dated to the past 50,000 years. It also stores details of the measurement setup for each determination, which are used for ranking the data according to prescribed reliability criteria. The ranking system aims to alleviate the data reliability problem inherent in this kind of data. GEOMAGIA50 is based on two popular open source technologies. The MySQL database management system is used for storing the data, whereas the functionality and user interface are provided by server-side PHP scripts. This technical brief gives a detailed description of GEOMAGIA50 from a technical viewpoint.

  17. Cardiovascular health promotion in aging women: validating a population health approach.

    PubMed

    Sawatzky, Jo-Ann V; Naimark, Barbara J

    2005-01-01

    Although cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in North American women, most cardiovascular research has focused on men. In addition, while there has been a recent trend toward population health promotion (PHP) and a consequent focus on the broad determinants of health, there is still a dearth of research evidence related to the promotion of cardiovascular health within this context. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the interrelationships between the determinants of health and individual cardiovascular health/risk behaviors in healthy women, within the context of a framework for PHP. A comprehensive inventory of factors affecting the cardiovascular health of women was operationalized in a survey questionnaire, the Cardiovascular Health Promotion Profile. Physical measures were also taken on each participant (n = 206). The multivariate analyses support significant interrelationships between the population health determinants and multiple individual cardiovascular health/risk behaviors in this cohort (p < 0.05). The evidence from this study provides foundational validation for a population health approach and population-based strategies for cardiovascular health promotion in women. Further research, within the context of a PHP framework, is central to building on the body of knowledge in this area.

  18. When Will It Be …?: U.S. Naval Observatory Religious Calendar Computers Expanded

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bartlett, Jennifer L.; Chizek Frouard, Malynda; Ziegler, Cross; Lesniak, Michael V.

    2017-01-01

    Reflecting increasing sensitivity to differing religious practices, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) has expanded its on-line calendar resources to compute additional religious dates for specific years via an Application Programming Interface (API). This flexible method now identifies Christian, Islamic, and Jewish events in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that anyone can use.Selected Christian Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/easter.php) returns dates of eight events for years after 1582 C.E. (A.D. 1582): Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter, Ascension, Whit Sunday, Trinity Sunday, and the first Sunday of Advent. The determination of Easter, a moveable feast, uses the method of western Christian churches.Selected Islamic Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/islamic.php) returns approximate Gregorian dates of three events for years after 1582 C.E. (A.H. 990) and Julian dates for 622-1582 C.E. (A.H. 1-990) along with the corresponding Islamic year (anno Hegirae). Ramadân, Shawwál, and the Islamic year begin at sunset on the preceding Gregorian or Julian date. For planning purposes, the determination of these dates uses a tabular calendar; in practice, observation of the appropriate waxing crescent Moon determines the actual date, which may vary.Selected Jewish Observances (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/passover.php) returns Gregorian dates of six events for years after 1582 C.E. (A.M. 5342) and Julian dates for the years 360-1582 C.E. (A.M. 4120-5342) along with the corresponding Jewish year (anno Mundi). Passover, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah begin at sunset on the preceding Gregorian or Julian date.On-line documentation for using the API-enabled calendar computers, including sample calls, is available (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php). The webpage also describes how to use the API with the Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day, Phases of the Moon, Solar Eclipse Computer, Day and Night Across the Earth, Apparent Disk of a Solar System Object, Julian Date Conversion, and Sidereal Time services.Introduction to Calendars (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/faq/docs/calendars.php) provides an overview of the topic and links to additional resources.

  19. When Will It Be …?: U.S. Naval Observatory Calendar Computers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bartlett, Jennifer L.; Chizek Frouard, Malynda; Lesniak, Michael V.

    2016-06-01

    Sensitivity to religious calendars is increasingly expected when planning activities. Consequently, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) has redesigned its on-line calendar resources to allow the computation of select religious dates for specific years via an application programming interface (API). This flexible interface returns dates in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that can be incorporated into third-party websites or applications. Currently, the services compute Christian, Islamic, and Jewish events.The “Dates of Ash Wednesday and Easter” service (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/easter.php) returns the dates of these two events for years after 1582 C.E. (1582 A.D.) The method of the western Christian churches is used to determined when Easter, a moveable feast, occurs.The “Dates of Islamic New Year and Ramadan” service (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/islamic.php) returns the approximate Gregorian dates of these two events for years after 1582 C.E. (990 A.H.) and Julian dates are computed for the years 622-1582 C.E. (1-990 A.H.). The appropriate year in the Islamic calendar (anno Hegira) is also provided. Each event begins at 6 P.M. or sunset on the preceding day. These events are computed using a tabular calendar for planning purposes; in practice, the actual event is determined by observation of the appropriate new Moon.The “First Day of Passover” service (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/passover.php) returns the Gregorian date corresponding to Nisan 15 for years after 1582 C.E. (5342 A.M.) and Julian dates are computed for the years 360-1582 C.E. (4120-5342 A.M.). The appropriate year in the Jewish calendar (anno Mundi) is also provided. Passover begins at 6 P.M. or sunset on the preceding day.On-line documentation for using the API-enabled calendar computers, including sample calls, is available (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php). The same web page also describes how to reach the Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day, Phases of the Moon, Solar Eclipse Computer, Day and Night Across the Earth, and Apparent Disk of a Solar System Object services using API calls.An “Introduction to Calendars” (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/faq/docs/calendars.php) provides an overview of the topic and links to additional resources.

  20. Development of Innovative Design Processor

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

    Park, Y.S.; Park, C.O.

    2004-07-01

    The nuclear design analysis requires time-consuming and erroneous model-input preparation, code run, output analysis and quality assurance process. To reduce human effort and improve design quality and productivity, Innovative Design Processor (IDP) is being developed. Two basic principles of IDP are the document-oriented design and the web-based design. The document-oriented design is that, if the designer writes a design document called active document and feeds it to a special program, the final document with complete analysis, table and plots is made automatically. The active documents can be written with ordinary HTML editors or created automatically on the web, which ismore » another framework of IDP. Using the proper mix-up of server side and client side programming under the LAMP (Linux/Apache/MySQL/PHP) environment, the design process on the web is modeled as a design wizard style so that even a novice designer makes the design document easily. This automation using the IDP is now being implemented for all the reload design of Korea Standard Nuclear Power Plant (KSNP) type PWRs. The introduction of this process will allow large reduction in all reload design efforts of KSNP and provide a platform for design and R and D tasks of KNFC. (authors)« less

  1. Short fourth and fifth metacarpals in a case of idiopathic primary hypoparathyroidism

    PubMed Central

    Valizadeh, Neda; Mehdizadeh, Alireza; Nazarbaghi, Surena

    2013-01-01

    Shortening of metacarpals is a useful diagnostic marker in patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP-Ia) with Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) phenotype or pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PPHP). There are very rare reports of metacarpals shortening in idiopathic primary hypoparathyroidism (IPH) cases in the literature. Here we described a young woman with IPH who presented with hypocalcaemia and generalized tonic-clonic seizure. She had shortening of forth and fifth metacarpals which was prominent in her right hand. Based on our finding and other previous case reports we conclude that metarpals shortening is not a specific finding of PHP-Ia or PPHP and it may be found in IPH cases. PMID:24083181

  2. Diagnosis and management of primary hepatic pregnancy: literature review of 31 cases.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jicai; Su, Zhilei; Lu, Shounan; Fu, Wen; Liu, Zhifa; Jiang, Xingming; Tai, Sheng

    2018-05-21

    To summarize the appropriate diagnostic methods and therapeutic options for primary hepatic pregnancy (PHP). Literature searches were performed in Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase databases (1956-2017), using the following search terms: primary hepatic pregnancy, hepatic pregnancy, liver pregnancy, hepatic ectopic pregnancy and intrahepatic pregnancy. Further literature was confirmed through cross-referencing. Thirty-one cases were reviewed and collected. The site mostly described in literatures is the right lobe of liver (93.5%). Main symptoms of PHP included abdominal pain (77.4%), amenorrhea (45.2%), acuteperitonism (32.3%), shock (25.8%) and vomit (16.1%). Majority of patients (83.9%) were treated by laparotomy. Less-invasive approaches (16.1%) such as laparoscopy or combination of postoperative injection of methotrexate were used less frequently. The outcome was acceptable at the end of the follow-up period in ten cases (1-72 months) and the recovery rate was 96.7%. One patient died and other complications were noted in three patients during the postoperative period. The clinical diagnosis of PHP can be settled up by comprehensive analysis of serum HCG levels, ultrasound and imaging. The analysis should be assessed carefully before therapeutic procedure. Invasive methods should be preferential. Less-invasive approaches can be selected when the patients have stable hemodynamics and non-acute abdomen.

  3. Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1A-Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Rapid Weight Gain as Early Clinical Signs: A Clinical Review of 10 Cases

    PubMed Central

    Kayemba-Kay’s, Simon; Tripon, Cedric; Heron, Anne; Hindmarsh, Peter

    2016-01-01

    Objective: To evaluate the clinical signs and symptoms that would help clinicians to consider pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) type 1A as a diagnosis in a child. Methods: A retrospective review of the medical records of children diagnosed by erythrocyte Gsα activity and/or GNAS1 gene study and followed-up for PHP type 1A. Clinical and biochemical parameters along with epidemiological data were extracted and analyzed. Weight gain during infancy and early childhood was calculated as change in weight standard deviation score (SDS), using the French growth reference values. An upward gain in weight ≥0.67 SDS during these periods was considered indicative of overweight and/or obesity. Results: Ten cases of PHP type 1A were identified (mean age 41.1 months, range from 4 to 156 months). In children aged ≤2 years, the commonest clinical features were round lunar face, obesity (70%), and subcutaneous ossifications (60%). In older children, brachydactyly was present in 60% of cases. Seizures occurred in older children (3 cases). Short stature was common at all ages. Subclinical hypothyroidism was present in 70%, increased parathormone (PTH) in 83%, and hyperphosphatemia in 50%. Only one case presented with hypocalcemia. Erythrocyte Gsα activity tested in seven children was reduced; GNAS1 gene testing was performed in 9 children. Maternal transmission was the most common (six patients). In three other cases, the mutations were de novo, c.585delGACT in exon 8 (case 2) and c.344C>TP115L in exon 5 (cases 6&7). Conclusion: Based on our results, PHP type 1A should be considered in toddlers presenting with round face, rapid weight gain, subcutaneous ossifications, and subclinical hypothyroidism. In older children, moderate mental retardation, brachydactyly, afebrile seizures, short stature, and thyroid-stimulating hormone resistance are the most suggestive features. PMID:27467896

  4. Identification and analytical characterization of nine synthetic cathinone derivatives N-ethylhexedrone, 4-Cl-pentedrone, 4-Cl-α-EAPP, propylone, N-ethylnorpentylone, 6-MeO-bk-MDMA, α-PiHP, 4-Cl-α-PHP, and 4-F-α-PHP.

    PubMed

    Liu, Cuimei; Jia, Wei; Li, Tao; Hua, Zhendong; Qian, Zhenhua

    2017-08-01

    Clinical and forensic toxicology laboratories are continuously confronted by analytical challenges when dealing with the new psychoactive substances (NPS) phenomenon. In this study, the analytical characterization of nine synthetic cathinones is described: 2-(ethylamino)-1-phenylhexan-1-one (N-ethylhexedrone 1), 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-(methylamino)pentan-1-one (4-Cl-pentedrone 2), 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-(ethylamino)pentan-1-one (4-Cl-α-EAPP 3), 1-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2-propylaminopropan-1-one (propylone 4), 1-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2-ethylaminopentan-1-one (N-ethylnorpentylone 5), 1-(6-methoxy-3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2-methylaminopropan-1-one (6-MeO-bk-MDMA 6), 4-methyl-1-phenyl-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pentan-1-one (α-PiHP 7), 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)hexan-1-one (4-Cl-α-PHP 8), and 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)hexan-1-one (4-F-α-PHP 9). The identification was based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The mass-spectral fragmentations of these compounds following collision-induced dissociation (CID) and electron ionization (EI) were studied to assist forensic laboratories in identifying these compounds or other substances with similar structure in their case work. To our knowledge, no analytical data about the compounds 1-4, 7, and 8 have appeared until now, making this the first report on these compounds. The GC-MS data of 5, 6 and 9 has been reported, but this study added the LC-MS, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and NMR data for additional characterization. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  5. Effectiveness of myofascial release in the management of plantar heel pain: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Ajimsha, M S; Binsu, D; Chithra, S

    2014-06-01

    Previous studies have reported that stretching of the calf musculature and the plantar fascia are effective management strategies for plantar heel pain (PHP). However, it is unclear whether myofascial release (MFR) can improve the outcomes in this population. To investigate whether myofascial release (MFR) reduces the pain and functional disability associated with plantar heel pain (PHP) in comparison with a control group receiving sham ultrasound therapy (SUST). Randomized, controlled, double blinded trial. Nonprofit research foundation clinic in India. Sixty-six patients, 17 men and 49 women with a clinical diagnosis of PHP were randomly assigned into MFR or a control group and given 12 sessions of treatment per client over 4 weeks. The Foot Function Index (FFI) scale was used to assess pain severity and functional disability. The primary outcome measure was the difference in FFI scale scores between week 1 (pretest score), week 4 (posttest score), and follow-up at week 12 after randomization. Additionally, pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were assessed over the affected gastrocnemii and soleus muscles, and over the calcaneus, by an assessor blinded to the treatment allocation. The simple main effects analysis showed that the MFR group performed better than the control group in weeks 4 and 12 (P<0.001). Patients in the MFR and control groups reported a 72.4% and 7.4% reduction, respectively, in their pain and functional disability in week 4 compared with that in week 1, which persisted as 60.6% in the follow-up at week 12 in the MFR group compared to the baseline. The mixed ANOVA also revealed significant group-by-time interactions for changes in PPT over the gastrocnemii and soleus muscles, and the calcaneus (P<0.05). This study provides evidence that MFR is more effective than a control intervention for PHP. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. 2-Diazo-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethanone: A Versatile Photochemical and Synthetic Reagenta

    PubMed Central

    Senadheera, Sanjeewa N.; Evans, Anthony S.; Toscano, John P.; Givens, Richard S.

    2014-01-01

    α-Diazo arylketones are well-known substrates for Wolff rearrangement to phenylacetic acids through a ketene intermediate by either thermal or photochemical activation. Likewise, α-substituted p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) esters are substrates for photo-Favorskii rerrangements to phenylacetic acids by a different pathway that purportedly involves a cyclopropanone intermediate. In this paper, we show that the photolysis of a series of α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenones and p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) α-esters both generate the identical rearranged phenylacetates as major products. Since α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenone (1a, pHP N2) contains all the necessary functionalities for either Wolff or Favorskii rearrangement, we were prompted to probe this intriguing mechanistic dichotomy under conditions favorable to the photo-Favorskii reangement, i.e., photolysis in hydroxylic media. An investigation of the mechanism for conversion of 1a to p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid (4a) using time-resolved infrared (TRIR) spectroscopy clearly demonstrates the formation of a ketene intermediate that is subsequently trapped by solvent or nucleophiles. The photoreaction of 1a is quenched by oxygen and sensitized by triplet sensitizers and the quantum yields for 1a–c range from 0.19 to a robust 0.25. The lifetime of the triplet, determined by Stern-Volmer quenching, is 15 ns with a rate for appearance of 4a of k = 7,1 × 106 s−1 in aq. acetonitrile (1:1 v:v). These studies establish that the primary rearrangement pathway for 1a involves ketene formation in accordance with the photo-Wolff rearrangement. Furthermore we have also demonstrated the synthetic utility of 1a as an esterification and etherification reagent with a variety of substituted α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenones, using them as synthons for efficiently coupling it to acids and phenols to produce pHP protect substrates. PMID:24305682

  7. 2-Diazo-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethanone: a versatile photochemical and synthetic reagent.

    PubMed

    Senadheera, Sanjeewa N; Evans, Anthony S; Toscano, John P; Givens, Richard S

    2014-02-01

    α-Diazo arylketones are well-known substrates for Wolff rearrangement to phenylacetic acids through a ketene intermediate by either thermal or photochemical activation. Likewise, α-substituted p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) esters are substrates for photo-Favorskii rearrangements to phenylacetic acids by a different pathway that purportedly involves a cyclopropanone intermediate. In this paper, we show that the photolysis of a series of α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenones and p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) α-esters both generate the identical rearranged phenylacetates as major products. Since α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenone (1a, pHP N2) contains all the necessary functionalities for either Wolff or Favorskii rearrangement, we were prompted to probe this intriguing mechanistic dichotomy under conditions favorable to the photo-Favorskii rearrangement, i.e., photolysis in hydroxylic media. An investigation of the mechanism for conversion of 1a to p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid (4a) using time-resolved infrared (TRIR) spectroscopy clearly demonstrates the formation of a ketene intermediate that is subsequently trapped by solvent or nucleophiles. The photoreaction of 1a is quenched by oxygen and sensitized by triplet sensitizers and the quantum yields for 1a-c range from 0.19 to a robust 0.25. The lifetime of the triplet, determined by Stern-Volmer quenching, is 31 ns with a rate for appearance of 4a of k = 7.1 × 10(6) s(-1) in aq. acetonitrile (1 : 1 v : v). These studies establish that the primary rearrangement pathway for 1a involves ketene formation in accordance with the photo-Wolff rearrangement. Furthermore we have also demonstrated the synthetic utility of 1a as an esterification and etherification reagent with a variety of substituted α-diazo-p-hydroxyacetophenones, using them as synthons for efficiently coupling it to acids and phenols to produce pHP protect substrates.

  8. High salinity relay as a postharvest processing strategy to reduce vibrio vulnificus levels in Chesapeake Bay oysters (Crassostrea virginica).

    PubMed

    Audemard, Corinne; Kator, Howard I; Rhodes, Martha W; Gallivan, Thomas; Erskine, A J; Leggett, A Thomas; Reece, Kimberly S

    2011-11-01

    In 2009 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its intention to implement postharvest processing (PHP) methods to eliminate Vibrio vulnificus from oysters intended for the raw, half-shell market that are harvested from the Gulf of Mexico during warmer months. FDA-approved PHP methods can be expensive and may be associated with unfavorable responses from some consumers. A relatively unexplored PHP method that uses relaying to high salinity waters could be an alternative strategy, considering that high salinities appear to negatively affect the survival of V. vulnificus. During relay, however, oysters may be exposed to rapid and large salinity increases that could cause increased mortality. In this study, the effectiveness of high salinity relay to reduce V. vulnificus to <30 most probable number (MPN) per g and the impact on oyster mortality were assessed in the lower Chesapeake Bay. Two relay experiments were performed during the summer and fall of 2010. Oysters collected from three grow-out sites, a low salinity site (14 to 15 practical salinity units [psu]) and two moderate salinity sites (22 to 25 psu), were relayed directly to a high salinity site (≥30 psu) on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Oysters were assayed for V. vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus (another Vibrio species of concern) densities at time 0 prior to relay and after 7 and 14 days of relay, using the FDA MPN enrichment method combined with detection by real-time PCR. After 14 days, both V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus densities were ≤0.8 MPN/g, and decreases of 2 to 3 log in V. vulnificus densities were observed. Oyster mortalities were low (≤4%) even for oysters from the low salinity harvest site, which experienced a salinity increase of approximately 15 psu. Results, although preliminary and requiring formal validation and economic analysis, suggest that high salinity relay could be an effective PHP method.

  9. WE-AB-204-05: Harmonizing PET/CT Quantification in Multicenter Studies: A Case Study

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

    Marques da Silva, A; Fischer, A

    2015-06-15

    Purpose: To present the implementation of a strategy to harmonize FDG PET/CT quantification (SUV), performed with different scanner models and manufacturers. Methods: The strategy was based on Boellaard (2011) and EARL FDG-PET/CT accreditation program, that propose quality control measurements for harmonizing scanner performance. A NEMA IEC Body phantom study was performed using four different devices: PHP-1 (Gemini TF Base, Philips); PHP-2 (Gemini GXL, Philips); GEH (Discovery 600, General Electric); SMS (Biograph Hi-Rez 16, Siemens). The SUV Recovery Coefficient (RC) was calculated using the clinical protocol and other clinically relevant reconstruction parameters. The most appropriate reconstruction parameters (MARP) for SUV harmonization,more » in each scanner, are those which achieve EARL harmonizing standards. They were identified using the lowest root mean square errors (RMSE). To evaluate the strategy’s effectiveness, the Maximum Differences (MD) between the clinical and MARP RC values were calculated. Results: The reconstructions parameters that obtained the lowest RMSE are: FBP 5mm (PHP-1); LOR-RAMLA 2i0.008l (PHP-2); VuePointHD 2i32s10mm (GEH); and FORE+OSEM 4i8s6mm (SMS). Thus, to ensure that quantitative PET image measurements are interchangeable between these sites, images must be reconstructed with the above-mentioned parameters. Although, a decoupling between the best image for PET/CT qualitative analysis and the best image for quantification studies was observed. The MD showed that the strategy was effective in reducing the variability of SUV quantification for small structures (<17mm). Conclusion: The harmonization strategy of the SUV quantification implemented with these devices was effective in reducing the variability of small structures quantification, minimizing the inter-scanner and inter-institution differences in quantification. However, it is essential that, in addition to the harmonization of quantification, the standardization of the methodology of patient preparation must be maintained, in order to minimize the SUV variability due to biological factors. Financial support by CAPES.« less

  10. NOAO observing proposal processing system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bell, David J.; Gasson, David; Hartman, Mia

    2002-12-01

    Since going electronic in 1994, NOAO has continued to refine and enhance its observing proposal handling system. Virtually all related processes are now handled electronically. Members of the astronomical community can submit proposals through email, web form or via Gemini's downloadable Phase-I Tool. NOAO staff can use online interfaces for administrative tasks, technical reviews, telescope scheduling, and compilation of various statistics. In addition, all information relevant to the TAC process is made available online. The system, now known as ANDES, is designed as a thin-client architecture (web pages are now used for almost all database functions) built using open source tools (FreeBSD, Apache, MySQL, Perl, PHP) to process descriptively-marked (LaTeX, XML) proposal documents.

  11. A Visual Galaxy Classification Interface and its Classroom Application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kautsch, Stefan J.; Phung, Chau; VanHilst, Michael; Castro, Victor H

    2014-06-01

    Galaxy morphology is an important topic in modern astronomy to understand questions concerning the evolution and formation of galaxies and their dark matter content. In order to engage students in exploring galaxy morphology, we developed a web-based, graphical interface that allows students to visually classify galaxy images according to various morphological types. The website is designed with HTML5, JavaScript, PHP, and a MySQL database. The classification interface provides hands-on research experience and training for students and interested clients, and allows them to contribute to studies of galaxy morphology. We present the first results of a pilot study and compare the visually classified types using our interface with that from automated classification routines.

  12. Web-Accessible Scientific Workflow System for Performance Monitoring

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

    Roelof Versteeg; Roelof Versteeg; Trevor Rowe

    2006-03-01

    We describe the design and implementation of a web accessible scientific workflow system for environmental monitoring. This workflow environment integrates distributed, automated data acquisition with server side data management and information visualization through flexible browser based data access tools. Component technologies include a rich browser-based client (using dynamic Javascript and HTML/CSS) for data selection, a back-end server which uses PHP for data processing, user management, and result delivery, and third party applications which are invoked by the back-end using webservices. This environment allows for reproducible, transparent result generation by a diverse user base. It has been implemented for several monitoringmore » systems with different degrees of complexity.« less

  13. EST databases and web tools for EST projects.

    PubMed

    Shen, Yao-Qing; O'Brien, Emmet; Koski, Liisa; Lang, B Franz; Burger, Gertraud

    2009-01-01

    This chapter outlines key considerations for constructing and implementing an EST database. Instead of showing the technological details step by step, emphasis is put on the design of an EST database suited to the specific needs of EST projects and how to choose the most suitable tools. Using TBestDB as an example, we illustrate the essential factors to be considered for database construction and the steps for data population and annotation. This process employs technologies such as PostgreSQL, Perl, and PHP to build the database and interface, and tools such as AutoFACT for data processing and annotation. We discuss these in comparison to other available technologies and tools, and explain the reasons for our choices.

  14. BIRD: Bio-Image Referral Database. Design and implementation of a new web based and patient multimedia data focused system for effective medical diagnosis and therapy.

    PubMed

    Pinciroli, Francesco; Masseroli, Marco; Acerbo, Livio A; Bonacina, Stefano; Ferrari, Roberto; Marchente, Mario

    2004-01-01

    This paper presents a low cost software platform prototype supporting health care personnel in retrieving patient referral multimedia data. These information are centralized in a server machine and structured by using a flexible eXtensible Markup Language (XML) Bio-Image Referral Database (BIRD). Data are distributed on demand to requesting client in an Intranet network and transformed via eXtensible Stylesheet Language (XSL) to be visualized in an uniform way on market browsers. The core server operation software has been developed in PHP Hypertext Preprocessor scripting language, which is very versatile and useful for crafting a dynamic Web environment.

  15. Designing and Evaluating a Climate Change Course for Upper-Division Engineers and Scientists

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Samson, P. J.

    2002-12-01

    AOSS 300, GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE, was created to provide a mechanism for scientific exploration of the unexpected global environmental side effects of technological innovation with emphasis on issues of the atmosphere and oceans. The course is specifically designed to contribute to the desired Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) outcomes that engineering and science graduates possess "the broad education necessary to understand the impact of solutions in a global and societal context." To facilitate this new course a new suite of coupled Flash/PHP/MySQL tools have been created that allow personalization of the students' learning space and interaction with faculty. Using these tools students are challenged to actively participate in the construction of knowledge through development of on-line portfolios that influence course content. This paper reports on lessons learned in the first semester that will guide further course development.

  16. Development of computer-assisted instruction application for statistical data analysis android platform as learning resource

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hendikawati, P.; Arifudin, R.; Zahid, M. Z.

    2018-03-01

    This study aims to design an android Statistics Data Analysis application that can be accessed through mobile devices to making it easier for users to access. The Statistics Data Analysis application includes various topics of basic statistical along with a parametric statistics data analysis application. The output of this application system is parametric statistics data analysis that can be used for students, lecturers, and users who need the results of statistical calculations quickly and easily understood. Android application development is created using Java programming language. The server programming language uses PHP with the Code Igniter framework, and the database used MySQL. The system development methodology used is the Waterfall methodology with the stages of analysis, design, coding, testing, and implementation and system maintenance. This statistical data analysis application is expected to support statistical lecturing activities and make students easier to understand the statistical analysis of mobile devices.

  17. BIRS - Bioterrorism Information Retrieval System.

    PubMed

    Tewari, Ashish Kumar; Rashi; Wadhwa, Gulshan; Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar; Jain, Chakresh Kumar

    2013-01-01

    Bioterrorism is the intended use of pathogenic strains of microbes to widen terror in a population. There is a definite need to promote research for development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostic methods as a part of preparedness to any bioterror attack in the future. BIRS is an open-access database of collective information on the organisms related to bioterrorism. The architecture of database utilizes the current open-source technology viz PHP ver 5.3.19, MySQL and IIS server under windows platform for database designing. Database stores information on literature, generic- information and unique pathways of about 10 microorganisms involved in bioterrorism. This may serve as a collective repository to accelerate the drug discovery and vaccines designing process against such bioterrorist agents (microbes). The available data has been validated from various online resources and literature mining in order to provide the user with a comprehensive information system. The database is freely available at http://www.bioterrorism.biowaves.org.

  18. Clouds off the Aleutian Islands

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    March 23, 2010 - Clouds off the Aleutian Islands Interesting cloud patterns were visible over the Aleutian Islands in this image, captured by the MODIS on the Aqua satellite on March 14, 2010. Turbulence, caused by the wind passing over the highest points of the islands, is producing the pronounced eddies that swirl the clouds into a pattern called a vortex "street". In this image, the clouds have also aligned in parallel rows or streets. Cloud streets form when low-level winds move between and over obstacles causing the clouds to line up into rows (much like streets) that match the direction of the winds. At the point where the clouds first form streets, they're very narrow and well-defined. But as they age, they lose their definition, and begin to spread out and rejoin each other into a larger cloud mass. The Aleutians are a chain of islands that extend from Alaska toward the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. For more information related to this image go to: modis.gsfc.nasa.gov/gallery/individual.php?db_date=2010-0... For more information about Goddard Space Flight Center go here: www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard/home/index.html

  19. Assessing the Efficacy of Adjustable Moving Averages Using ASEAN-5 Currencies.

    PubMed

    Chan Phooi M'ng, Jacinta; Zainudin, Rozaimah

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this research is to examine the trends in the exchange rate markets of the ASEAN-5 countries (Indonesia (IDR), Malaysia (MYR), the Philippines (PHP), Singapore (SGD), and Thailand (THB)) through the application of dynamic moving average trading systems. This research offers evidence of the usefulness of the time-varying volatility technical analysis indicator, Adjustable Moving Average (AMA') in deciphering trends in these ASEAN-5 exchange rate markets. This time-varying volatility factor, referred to as the Efficacy Ratio in this paper, is embedded in AMA'. The Efficacy Ratio adjusts the AMA' to the prevailing market conditions by avoiding whipsaws (losses due, in part, to acting on wrong trading signals, which generally occur when there is no general direction in the market) in range trading and by entering early into new trends in trend trading. The efficacy of AMA' is assessed against other popular moving-average rules. Based on the January 2005 to December 2014 dataset, our findings show that the moving averages and AMA' are superior to the passive buy-and-hold strategy. Specifically, AMA' outperforms the other models for the United States Dollar against PHP (USD/PHP) and USD/THB currency pairs. The results show that different length moving averages perform better in different periods for the five currencies. This is consistent with our hypothesis that a dynamic adjustable technical indicator is needed to cater for different periods in different markets.

  20. Effect of using ethanol and methanol on thermal performance of a closed loop pulsating heat pipe (CLPHP) with different filling ratios

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahman, Md. Lutfor; Salsabil, Zaimaa; Yasmin, Nusrat; Nourin, Farah Nazifa; Ali, Mohammad

    2016-07-01

    This paper presents an experimental study of a closed loop Pulsating Heat Pipe (CLPHP) as the demand of smaller and effective heat transfer devices is increasing day by day. PHP is a two phase heat transfer device suited for heat transfer applications, especially suited for handling moderate to high heat fluxes in different applications. A copper made Pulsating Heat Pipe (PHP) of 250 mm length is used in this experimental work with 2 mm ID and 3 mm OD, closed end-to-end in 8 looped, evacuated and then partially filled with working fluids. The evaporation section is 50 mm, adiabatic section is 120 mm and condensation section is 80 mm. The performance characterization is done for two working fluids at Vertical (0°) orientations. The working fluids are Methanol and Ethanol and the filling ratios are 40%, 50%, 60% & 70% based on total volume, respectively. The results show that the influence of various parameters, the heat input flux, and different filling ratios on a heat transfer performance of CLPHP. Methanol shows better performance as working fluid in PHP than ethanol at present orientation for a wide range of heat inputs and can be used at high heat input conditions. Ethanol is better choice to be used in low heat input conditions.

  1. Growth hormone-releasing hormone resistance in pseudohypoparathyroidism type ia: new evidence for imprinting of the Gs alpha gene.

    PubMed

    Mantovani, Giovanna; Maghnie, Mohamad; Weber, Giovanna; De Menis, Ernesto; Brunelli, Valeria; Cappa, Marco; Loli, Paola; Beck-Peccoz, Paolo; Spada, Anna

    2003-09-01

    Heterozygous inactivating mutations in the Gs alpha gene cause Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy. Consistent with the observation that only maternally inherited mutations lead to resistance to hormone action [pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP Ia)], recent studies provided evidence for a predominant maternal origin of Gs alpha transcripts in endocrine organs, such as thyroid, gonad, and pituitary. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of pituitary resistance to hypothalamic hormones acting via Gs alpha-coupled receptors in patients with PHP Ia. Six of nine patients showed an impaired GH responsiveness to GHRH plus arginine, consistent with a complete GH deficiency (GH peak from 2.6-8.6 microg/liter, normal > 16.5), and partial (GH peak 13.9 and 13.6 microg/liter) and normal responses were found in two and one patient, respectively. Accordingly, IGF-I levels were below and in the low-normal range in seven and two patients. All patients had a normal cortisol response to 1 microg ACTH test, suggesting a normal corticotroph function that was confirmed by a normal ACTH and cortisol response to CRH test in three patients. In conclusion, we report that in addition to PTH and TSH resistance, patients with PHP Ia display variable degrees of GHRH resistance, consistent with Gs alpha imprinting in human pituitary.

  2. Stimulated Mid-Infrared Luminescence Experiment: Contribution to the Study of Pre-Earthquake Phenomena and UV Absorption by Interstellar Dust

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Freund, Friedemann; Freund, Minoru M.; Tsay, Si-Chee; Ouzounov, Dimitar

    2004-01-01

    The work performed under this proposal is based on the experimentally supported observation - or inference - that a small fraction of the oxygen anions in silicate minerals in igneous and high-grade metamorphic rocks on Earth may not be in the usual 2- oxidation state, O(sup 2-), but in a higher oxidation state, as O(sup -). If this is true, the same would likely apply to the fine dust that fills the diffuse interstellar medium. An (sup -) in a matrix of O(sup 2-) represents a defect electron in the valence band, also known as positive hole or p-hole for short. When two O(sup -) combine, they undergo spin-pairing and form a positive hole pair, PHP. Chemically speaking a PHP is a peroxy bond. In an oxide matrix a peroxy bond takes the form of a peroxy anion, O2(sup 2-). In a silicate matrix it probably exists in the form of peroxy links between adjacent [SiO4] tetrahedral, O3Si00\\SiO3. From a physics perspective a PHP is an electrically inactive point defect, which contains dormant electronic charge carriers. When the peroxy bond breaks, p-hole charge carriers are released. These p-holes are diffusively mobile and spread through the O 2p-dominated valence band of the otherwise insulating mineral matrix.

  3. Integration of gel-based proteome data with pProRep.

    PubMed

    Laukens, Kris; Matthiesen, Rune; Lemière, Filip; Esmans, Eddy; Onckelen, Harry Van; Jensen, Ole Nørregaard; Witters, Erwin

    2006-11-15

    pProRep is a web application integrating electrophoretic and mass spectral data from proteome analyses into a relational database. The graphical web-interface allows users to upload, analyse and share experimental proteome data. It offers researchers the possibility to query all previously analysed datasets and can visualize selected features, such as the presence of a certain set of ions in a peptide mass spectrum, on the level of the two-dimensional gel. The pProRep package and instructions for its use can be downloaded from http://www.ptools.ua.ac.be/pProRep. The application requires a web server that runs PHP 5 (http://www.php.net) and MySQL. Some (non-essential) extensions need additional freely available libraries: details are described in the installation instructions.

  4. Investment, managerial capacity, and bias in public health preparedness.

    PubMed

    Langabeer, James R; DelliFraine, Jami L; Tyson, Sandra; Emert, Jamie M; Herbold, John

    2009-01-01

    Nearly $7 billion has been invested through national cooperative funding since 2002 to strengthen state and local response capacity. Yet, very little outcome evidence exists to analyze funding effectiveness. The objective of this research is to analyze the relationship between investment (funding) and capacity (readiness) for public health preparedness (PHP). The aim of the authors is to use a management framework to evaluate capacity, and to explore the "immediacy bias" impact on investment stability. This study employs a longitudinal study design, incorporating survey research of the entire population of 68 health departments in the state of Texas. The authors assessed the investment-capacity relationship through several statistical methods. The authors created a structural measure of managerial capacity through principal components analysis, factorizing 10 independent variables and augment this with a perceived readiness level reported from PHP managers. The authors then employ analysis of variance, correlation analyses, and other descriptive statistics. There has been a 539 percent coefficient of variation in funding at the local level between the years 2004 and 2008, and a 63 percent reduction in total resources since the peak of funding, using paired sample data. Results suggest that investment is positively associated with readiness and managerial capacity in local health departments. The authors also find that investment was related to greater community collaboration, higher adoption of Incident Command System (ICS) structure, and more frequent operational drills and exercises. Greater investment is associated with higher levels of capacity and readiness. The authors conclude from this that investment should be stabilized and continued, and not be influenced by historical cognitive biases.

  5. Suicide attempt with a mix of synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones: Case report of non-fatal intoxication with AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA, alpha-PHP, alpha-PVP and 4-CMC.

    PubMed

    Klavž, Janez; Gorenjak, Maksimiljan; Marinšek, Martin

    2016-08-01

    We report on a case of intoxication with a mix of new psychoactive substances. A 38-year-old male was brought to the emergency department (ED) following the ingestion of an unknown drug in a suicide attempt. During the transport, he became progressively more somnolent and unresponsive to painful stimuli. Urine and stomach content were collected on admission to be screened for drugs of abuse and medicinal drugs. After admission, the patient's next of kin presented five small grip seal plastic bags containing different powders/crystals, and they were sent for analysis along with urine and stomach content to the toxicology laboratory. An easy and rapid sample preparation technique was applied for the extraction of urine and stomach content. Samples were extracted with liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) technique and analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A small amount of powder material from the bags was diluted in methanol and injected directly into the GC-MS instrument. Obtained spectra (EI) were evaluated against SWGDRUG library. Five different designer drugs were identified in the powder material, including synthetic cannabinoids (AB-CHMINACA, AB-FUBINACA) and synthetic cathinones (alpha-PHP, alpha-PVP and 4-CMC). With the exception of 4-CMC, all of these substances were also detected in the stomach content along with the prescription drugs. This is the first time that a positive identification of these five drugs has been made by a clinical laboratory in Slovenia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. 78 FR 10187 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-02-13

    ....com/ County (12-08- Fischer, 4430 South Adams index.php/colorado/ 0595P). Chairman, Adams County... Public Works http:// March 15, 2013 370498 Cornelius (12- Jeff Tarte, Department, 21445 www.bakeraecom...

  7. firestar--advances in the prediction of functionally important residues.

    PubMed

    Lopez, Gonzalo; Maietta, Paolo; Rodriguez, Jose Manuel; Valencia, Alfonso; Tress, Michael L

    2011-07-01

    firestar is a server for predicting catalytic and ligand-binding residues in protein sequences. Here, we present the important developments since the first release of firestar. Previous versions of the server required human interpretation of the results; the server is now fully automatized. firestar has been implemented as a web service and can now be run in high-throughput mode. Prediction coverage has been greatly improved with the extension of the FireDB database and the addition of alignments generated by HHsearch. Ligands in FireDB are now classified for biological relevance. Many of the changes have been motivated by the critical assessment of techniques for protein structure prediction (CASP) ligand-binding prediction experiment, which provided us with a framework to test the performance of firestar. URL: http://firedb.bioinfo.cnio.es/Php/FireStar.php.

  8. firestar—advances in the prediction of functionally important residues

    PubMed Central

    Lopez, Gonzalo; Maietta, Paolo; Rodriguez, Jose Manuel; Valencia, Alfonso; Tress, Michael L.

    2011-01-01

    firestar is a server for predicting catalytic and ligand-binding residues in protein sequences. Here, we present the important developments since the first release of firestar. Previous versions of the server required human interpretation of the results; the server is now fully automatized. firestar has been implemented as a web service and can now be run in high-throughput mode. Prediction coverage has been greatly improved with the extension of the FireDB database and the addition of alignments generated by HHsearch. Ligands in FireDB are now classified for biological relevance. Many of the changes have been motivated by the critical assessment of techniques for protein structure prediction (CASP) ligand-binding prediction experiment, which provided us with a framework to test the performance of firestar. URL: http://firedb.bioinfo.cnio.es/Php/FireStar.php. PMID:21672959

  9. WebBio, a web-based management and analysis system for patient data of biological products in hospital.

    PubMed

    Lu, Ying-Hao; Kuo, Chen-Chun; Huang, Yaw-Bin

    2011-08-01

    We selected HTML, PHP and JavaScript as the programming languages to build "WebBio", a web-based system for patient data of biological products and used MySQL as database. WebBio is based on the PHP-MySQL suite and is run by Apache server on Linux machine. WebBio provides the functions of data management, searching function and data analysis for 20 kinds of biological products (plasma expanders, human immunoglobulin and hematological products). There are two particular features in WebBio: (1) pharmacists can rapidly find out whose patients used contaminated products for medication safety, and (2) the statistics charts for a specific product can be automatically generated to reduce pharmacist's work loading. WebBio has successfully turned traditional paper work into web-based data management.

  10. Effect of filling ratio and orientation on the thermal performance of closed loop pulsating heat pipe using ethanol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahman, Md. Lutfor; Chowdhury, Mehrin; Islam, Nawshad Arslan; Mufti, Sayed Muhammad; Ali, Mohammad

    2016-07-01

    Pulsating heat pipe (PHP) is a new, promising yet ambiguous technology for effective heat transfer of microelectronic devices where heat is carried by the vapor plugs and liquid slugs of the working fluid. The aim of this research paper is to better understand the operation of PHP through experimental investigations and obtain comparative results for different parameters. A series of experiments are conducted on a closed loop PHP (CLPHP) with 8 loops made of copper capillary tube of 2 mm inner diameter. Ethanol is taken as the working fluid. The operating characteristics are studied for the variation of heat input, filling ratio (FR) and orientation. The filling ratios are 40%, 50%, 60% and 70% based on its total volume. The orientations are 0° (vertical), 30°, 45° and 60°. The results clearly demonstrate the effect of filling ratio and inclination angle on the performance, operational stability and heat transfer capability of ethanol as working fluid of CLPHP. Important insight of the operational characteristics of CLPHP is obtained and optimum performance of CLPHP using ethanol is thus identified. Ethanol works best at 50-60%FR at wide range of heat inputs. At very low heat inputs, 40%FR can be used for attaining a good performance. Filling ratio below 40%FR is not suitable for using in CLPHP as it gives a low performance. The optimum performance of the device can be obtained at vertical position.

  11. Cost-benefit analysis of a Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis prevention programme in The Philippines.

    PubMed

    Limcangco, M R; Armour, C L; Salole, E G; Taylor, S J

    2001-01-01

    Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) meningitis is associated with high mortality and serious sequelae in children under 5 years of age. Vaccines which can prevent this infection are available. To evaluate the costs and benefits of a 3-dose immunisation schedule in Manila, Philippines. Government and societal perspectives. A cost-benefit analysis based on a birth cohort of 100,000 children. The state of health of the cohort with and without a Hib immunisation programme was modelled over a 5-year period. A survey of medical records of patients with Hib in Manila provided data on the extent and cost of sequelae following infection. A 3-dose Hib vaccination programme given at ages 2, 3 and 4 months. The model predicted that vaccinating children against Hib meningitis would prevent 553 cases per year in a birth cohort of 100,000, at a cost of 56,200 Philippine pesos (PHP) [$US1,605; 1998 exchange rate] per case (base case assumptions of 90% vaccine efficacy rate, 95 per 100,000 Hib incidence rate, 85% vaccination coverage). Results from the cost-benefit analyses indicated that the saving to the government would be around PHP39 million ($US1.11 million), and the saving to society would be PHP255 million ($US7.28 million). There would be a positive economic benefit for the Philippine government and for the Filipino society if a Hib vaccination programme was introduced in Manila.

  12. Assessing the Efficacy of Adjustable Moving Averages Using ASEAN-5 Currencies

    PubMed Central

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this research is to examine the trends in the exchange rate markets of the ASEAN-5 countries (Indonesia (IDR), Malaysia (MYR), the Philippines (PHP), Singapore (SGD), and Thailand (THB)) through the application of dynamic moving average trading systems. This research offers evidence of the usefulness of the time-varying volatility technical analysis indicator, Adjustable Moving Average (AMA′) in deciphering trends in these ASEAN-5 exchange rate markets. This time-varying volatility factor, referred to as the Efficacy Ratio in this paper, is embedded in AMA′. The Efficacy Ratio adjusts the AMA′ to the prevailing market conditions by avoiding whipsaws (losses due, in part, to acting on wrong trading signals, which generally occur when there is no general direction in the market) in range trading and by entering early into new trends in trend trading. The efficacy of AMA′ is assessed against other popular moving-average rules. Based on the January 2005 to December 2014 dataset, our findings show that the moving averages and AMA′ are superior to the passive buy-and-hold strategy. Specifically, AMA′ outperforms the other models for the United States Dollar against PHP (USD/PHP) and USD/THB currency pairs. The results show that different length moving averages perform better in different periods for the five currencies. This is consistent with our hypothesis that a dynamic adjustable technical indicator is needed to cater for different periods in different markets. PMID:27574972

  13. Reactions of R(2)P-P(SiMe(3))Li with [(R'(3)P)(2)PtCl(2)]. A general and efficient entry to phosphanylphosphinidene complexes of platinum. Syntheses and structures of [(eta(2)-P=(i)Pr(2))Pt(p-Tol(3)P)(2)], [(eta(2)-P=(t)Bu(2))Pt(p-Tol(3)P)(2)], [{eta(2)-P=(N(i)Pr(2))(2)}Pt(p-Tol(3)P)(2)] and [{(Et(2)PhP)(2)Pt}(2)P(2)].

    PubMed

    Domańska-Babul, Wioleta; Chojnacki, Jaroslaw; Matern, Eberhard; Pikies, Jerzy

    2009-01-07

    The reactions of lithium derivatives of diphosphanes R(2)P-P(SiMe(3))Li (R = (t)Bu, (i)Pr, Et(2)N and (i)Pr(2)N) with [(R'(3)P)(2)PtCl(2)] (R'(3)P = Et(3)P, Et(2)PhP, EtPh(2)P and p-Tol(3)P) proceed in a facile manner to afford side-on bonded phosphanylphosphinidene complexes of platinum [(eta(2)-P=R(2))Pt(PR'(3))(2)]. The related reactions of Ph(2)P-P(SiMe(3))Li with [(R'(3)P)(2)PtCl(2)] did not yield [(eta(2)-P=PPh(2))Pt(PR'(3))(2)] and resulted mainly in the formation of [{(R'(3)P)(2)Pt}(2)P(2)], Ph(2)P-PLi-PPh(2), (Me(3)Si)(2)PLi and (Me(3)Si)(3)P. Crystallographic data are reported for the compounds [(eta(2)-P=R(2))Pt(p-Tol(3)P)(2)] (R = (t)Bu, (i)Pr, ((i)Pr(2)N)(2)P) and for [{(Et(2)PhP)(2)Pt}(2)P(2)].

  14. Paternal GNAS Mutations Lead to Severe Intrauterine Growth Retardation (IUGR) and Provide Evidence for a Role of XLαs in Fetal Development

    PubMed Central

    Richard, Nicolas; Molin, Arnaud; Coudray, Nadia; Rault-Guillaume, Pauline; Jüppner, Harald

    2013-01-01

    Context: Heterozygous GNAS inactivating mutations cause pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP-Ia) when maternally inherited and pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PPHP)/progressive osseous heteroplasia (POH) when paternally inherited. Recent studies have suggested that mutations on the paternal, but not the maternal, GNAS allele could be associated with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and thus small size for gestational age. Objectives: The aim of the study was to confirm and expand these findings in a large number of patients presenting with either PHP-Ia or PPHP/POH. Patients and Methods: We collected birth parameters (ie, gestational age, weight, length, and head circumference) of patients with either PHP-Ia (n = 29) or PPHP/POH (n = 26) with verified GNAS mutations. The parental allele carrying the mutation was assessed by investigating the parents or, when a de novo mutation was identified, through informative intragenic polymorphisms. Results: Heterozygous GNAS mutations on either parental allele were associated with IUGR. However, when these mutations are located on the paternal GNAS allele, IUGR was considerably more pronounced than with mutations on the maternal allele. Moreover, birth weights were lower with paternal GNAS mutations affecting exons 2–13 than with exon 1/intron 1 mutations. Conclusions: These data indicate that a paternally derived GNAS transcript, possibly XLαs, is required for normal fetal growth and development and that this transcript affects placental functions. Thus, similar to other imprinted genes, GNAS controls growth and/or fetal development. PMID:23884777

  15. Wave Clouds over Ireland

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    Visualization Date 2003-12-18 Clouds ripple over Ireland and Scotland in a wave pattern, similar to the pattern of waves along a seashore. The similarity is not coincidental — the atmosphere behaves like a fluid, so when it encounters an obstacle, it must move around it. This movement forms a wave, and the wave movement can continue for long distances. In this case, the waves were caused by the air moving over and around the mountains of Scotland and Ireland. As the air crested a wave, it cooled, and clouds formed. Then, as the air sank into the trough, the air warmed, and clouds did not form. This pattern repeated itself, with clouds appearing at the peak of every wave. Other types of clouds are also visible in the scene. Along the northwestern and southwestern edges of this true-color image from December 17, 2003, are normal mid-altitude clouds with fairly uniform appearances. High altitude cirrus-clouds float over these, casting their shadows on the lower clouds. Open- and closed-cell clouds formed off the coast of northwestern France, and thin contrail clouds are visible just east of these. Contrail clouds form around the particles carried in airplane exhaust. Fog is also visible in the valleys east of the Cambrian Mountains, along the border between northern/central Wales and England. This is an Aqua MODIS image. Sensor Aqua/MODIS Credit Jacques Descloitres, MODIS Rapid Response Team, NASA/GSFC For more information go to: visibleearth.nasa.gov/view_rec.php?id=6146

  16. MollDE: a homology modeling framework you can click with.

    PubMed

    Canutescu, Adrian A; Dunbrack, Roland L

    2005-06-15

    Molecular Integrated Development Environment (MolIDE) is an integrated application designed to provide homology modeling tools and protocols under a uniform, user-friendly graphical interface. Its main purpose is to combine the most frequent modeling steps in a semi-automatic, interactive way, guiding the user from the target protein sequence to the final three-dimensional protein structure. The typical basic homology modeling process is composed of building sequence profiles of the target sequence family, secondary structure prediction, sequence alignment with PDB structures, assisted alignment editing, side-chain prediction and loop building. All of these steps are available through a graphical user interface. MolIDE's user-friendly and streamlined interactive modeling protocol allows the user to focus on the important modeling questions, hiding from the user the raw data generation and conversion steps. MolIDE was designed from the ground up as an open-source, cross-platform, extensible framework. This allows developers to integrate additional third-party programs to MolIDE. http://dunbrack.fccc.edu/molide/molide.php rl_dunbrack@fccc.edu.

  17. BIRS – Bioterrorism Information Retrieval System

    PubMed Central

    Tewari, Ashish Kumar; Rashi; Wadhwa, Gulshan; Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar; Jain, Chakresh Kumar

    2013-01-01

    Bioterrorism is the intended use of pathogenic strains of microbes to widen terror in a population. There is a definite need to promote research for development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostic methods as a part of preparedness to any bioterror attack in the future. BIRS is an open-access database of collective information on the organisms related to bioterrorism. The architecture of database utilizes the current open-source technology viz PHP ver 5.3.19, MySQL and IIS server under windows platform for database designing. Database stores information on literature, generic- information and unique pathways of about 10 microorganisms involved in bioterrorism. This may serve as a collective repository to accelerate the drug discovery and vaccines designing process against such bioterrorist agents (microbes). The available data has been validated from various online resources and literature mining in order to provide the user with a comprehensive information system. Availability The database is freely available at http://www.bioterrorism.biowaves.org PMID:23390356

  18. Astronomical databases of Nikolaev Observatory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Protsyuk, Y.; Mazhaev, A.

    2008-07-01

    Several astronomical databases were created at Nikolaev Observatory during the last years. The databases are built by using MySQL search engine and PHP scripts. They are available on NAO web-site http://www.mao.nikolaev.ua.

  19. --No Title--

    Science.gov Websites

    Version] Short Range Forecast Discussion NWS Weather Prediction Center College Park MD 337 PM EDT Sun May available at www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/basicwx/basicwx_ndfd.php Last Updated: 337 PM EDT Sun May 27 2018

  20. An Expert System for Diagnosis of Sleep Disorder Using Fuzzy Rule-Based Classification Systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Septem Riza, Lala; Pradini, Mila; Fitrajaya Rahman, Eka; Rasim

    2017-03-01

    Sleep disorder is an anomaly that could cause problems for someone’ sleeping pattern. Nowadays, it becomes an issue since people are getting busy with their own business and have no time to visit the doctors. Therefore, this research aims to develop a system used for diagnosis of sleep disorder using Fuzzy Rule-Based Classification System (FRBCS). FRBCS is a method based on the fuzzy set concepts. It consists of two steps: (i) constructing a model/knowledge involving rulebase and database, and (ii) prediction over new data. In this case, the knowledge is obtained from experts whereas in the prediction stage, we perform fuzzification, inference, and classification. Then, a platform implementing the method is built with a combination between PHP and the R programming language using the “Shiny” package. To validate the system that has been made, some experiments have been done using data from a psychiatric hospital in West Java, Indonesia. Accuracy of the result and computation time are 84.85% and 0.0133 seconds, respectively.

  1. Web-based biobank system infrastructure monitoring using Python, Perl, and PHP.

    PubMed

    Norling, Martin; Kihara, Absolomon; Kemp, Steve

    2013-12-01

    The establishment and maintenance of biobanks is only as worthwhile as the security and logging of the biobank contents. We have designed a monitoring system that continuously measures temperature and gas content, records the movement of samples in and out of the biobank, and also records the opening and closing of the freezers-storing the results and images in a database. We have also incorporated an early warning feature that sends out alerts, via SMS and email, to responsible persons if any measurement is recorded outside the acceptable limits, guaranteeing the integrity of biobanked samples, as well as reagents used in sample analysis. A surveillance system like this increases the value for any biobank as the initial investment is small and the value of having trustworthy samples for future research is high.

  2. Telling Your Story: Ocean Scientists in the K-12 Classroom

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McWilliams, H.

    2006-12-01

    Most scientists and engineers are accustomed to presenting their research to colleagues or lecturing college or graduate students. But if asked to speak in front of a classroom full of elementary school or junior high school students, many feel less comfortable. TERC, as part of its work with The Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence-New England (COSEE-NE) has designed a workshop to help ocean scientists and engineers develop skills for working with K-12 teachers and students. We call this program: Telling Your Story (TYS). TYS has been offered 4 times over 18 months for a total audience of approximately 50 ocean scientists. We will discuss the rationale for the program, the program outline, outcomes, and what we have learned. ne.net/edu_project_3/index.php

  3. SPRITE: the Spitzer proposal review website

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Crane, Megan K.; Storrie-Lombardi, Lisa J.; Silbermann, Nancy A.; Rebull, Luisa M.

    2008-07-01

    The Spitzer Science Center (SSC), located on the campus of the California Institute of Technology, supports the science operations of NASA's infrared Spitzer Space Telescope. The SSC issues an annual Call for Proposals inviting investigators worldwide to submit Spitzer Space Telescope proposals. The Spitzer Proposal Review Website (SPRITE) is a MySQL/PHP web database application designed to support the SSC proposal review process. Review panel members use the software to view, grade, and write comments about the proposals, and SSC support team members monitor the grading and ranking process and ultimately generate a ranked list of all the proposals. The software is also used to generate, edit, and email award letters to the proposers. This work was performed at the California Institute of Technology under contract to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

  4. Investigation of angiogenesis in bioactive 3-dimensional poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)/nano-hydroxyapatite scaffolds by in vivo multiphoton microscopy in murine calvarial critical bone defect.

    PubMed

    Li, Jian; Xu, Qiang; Teng, Bin; Yu, Chen; Li, Jian; Song, Liang; Lai, Yu-Xiao; Zhang, Jian; Zheng, Wei; Ren, Pei-Gen

    2016-09-15

    Reconstruction of critical size bone defects remains a major clinical challenge because of poor bone regeneration, which is usually due to poor angiogenesis during repair. Satisfactory vascularization is a prerequisite for the survival of grafts and the integration of new tissue with existing tissue. In this work, we investigated angiogenesis in 3D scaffolds by in vivo multiphoton microscopy during bone formation in a murine calvarial critical bone defect model and evaluated bone regeneration 8weeks post-implantation. The continuous release of bioactive lentiviral vectors (LV-pdgfb) from the scaffolds could be detected for 5days in vitro. In vivo, the released LV-pdgfb transfected adjacent cells and expressed PDGF-BB, facilitating angiogenesis and enhancing bone regeneration. The expression of both pdgfb and the angiogenesis-related genes vWF and VEGFR2 was significantly increased in the pdgfb gene-carrying scaffold (PHp) group. In addition, microCT scanning and histomorphology results proved that there was more new bone ingrowth in the PHp group than in the PLGA/nHA (PH) and control groups. MicroCT parameters, including BMD, BV/TV, Tb.Sp, and Tb.N indicated that there was significantly more new bone formation in the PHp group than in the other groups. With regard to neovascularization, 8weeks post-implantation, blood vessel areas (BVAs) were 9428±944μm(2), 4090±680.3μm(2), and none in the PHp, PH, and control groups, respectively. At each time point, BVAs in the PHp scaffolds were significantly higher than in the PH scaffolds. To our knowledge, this is the first use of multiphoton microscopy in bone tissue-engineering to investigate angiogenesis in scaffolds in vivo. This method represents a valuable tool for investigating neovascularization in bone scaffolds to determine if a certain scaffold is beneficial to neovascularization. We also proved that delivery of the pdgfb gene alone can improve both angiogenesis and bone regeneration Acronyms. Reconstruction of critical size bone defects remains a major clinical challenge because of poor bone regeneration, which is usually due to poor angiogenesis during repair. Satisfactory vascularization is a prerequisite for the survival of grafts and the integration of new tissue with existing tissue. In this work, we investigated angiogenesis in 3D scaffolds by in vivo multiphoton microscopy during bone formation in a murine calvarial critical bone defect model and evaluated bone regeneration 8weeks post-implantation. To verify that pdgfb-expressing vectors carried by the scaffolds can promote angiogenesis in 3D-printed scaffolds in vivo, we monitored angiogenesis within the implants by multiphoton microscopy. To our knowledge, this is the first study to dynamically investigate angiogenesis in bone tissue engineering scaffolds in vivo. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Arctic Risk Management (ARMNet) Network: Linking Risk Management Practitioners and Researchers Across the Arctic Regions of Canada and Alaska To Improve Risk, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Through Comparative Analysis and Applied Research

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garland, A.

    2015-12-01

    The Arctic Risk Management Network (ARMNet) was conceived as a trans-disciplinary hub to encourage and facilitate greater cooperation, communication and exchange among American and Canadian academics and practitioners actively engaged in the research, management and mitigation of risks, emergencies and disasters in the Arctic regions. Its aim is to assist regional decision-makers through the sharing of applied research and best practices and to support greater inter-operability and bilateral collaboration through improved networking, joint exercises, workshops, teleconferences, radio programs, and virtual communications (eg. webinars). Most importantly, ARMNet is a clearinghouse for all information related to the management of the frequent hazards of Arctic climate and geography in North America, including new and emerging challenges arising from climate change, increased maritime polar traffic and expanding economic development in the region. ARMNet is an outcome of the Arctic Observing Network (AON) for Long Term Observations, Governance, and Management Discussions, www.arcus.org/search-program. The AON goals continue with CRIOS (www.ariesnonprofit.com/ARIESprojects.php) and coastal erosion research (www.ariesnonprofit.com/webinarCoastalErosion.php) led by the North Slope Borough Risk Management Office with assistance from ARIES (Applied Research in Environmental Sciences Nonprofit, Inc.). The constituency for ARMNet will include all northern academics and researchers, Arctic-based corporations, First Responders (FRs), Emergency Management Offices (EMOs) and Risk Management Offices (RMOs), military, Coast Guard, northern police forces, Search and Rescue (SAR) associations, boroughs, territories and communities throughout the Arctic. This presentation will be of interest to all those engaged in Arctic affairs, describe the genesis of ARMNet and present the results of stakeholder meetings and webinars designed to guide the next stages of the Project.

  6. Monitoring of small laboratory animal experiments by a designated web-based database.

    PubMed

    Frenzel, T; Grohmann, C; Schumacher, U; Krüll, A

    2015-10-01

    Multiple-parametric small animal experiments require, by their very nature, a sufficient number of animals which may need to be large to obtain statistically significant results.(1) For this reason database-related systems are required to collect the experimental data as well as to support the later (re-) analysis of the information gained during the experiments. In particular, the monitoring of animal welfare is simplified by the inclusion of warning signals (for instance, loss in body weight >20%). Digital patient charts have been developed for human patients but are usually not able to fulfill the specific needs of animal experimentation. To address this problem a unique web-based monitoring system using standard MySQL, PHP, and nginx has been created. PHP was used to create the HTML-based user interface and outputs in a variety of proprietary file formats, namely portable document format (PDF) or spreadsheet files. This article demonstrates its fundamental features and the easy and secure access it offers to the data from any place using a web browser. This information will help other researchers create their own individual databases in a similar way. The use of QR-codes plays an important role for stress-free use of the database. We demonstrate a way to easily identify all animals and samples and data collected during the experiments. Specific ways to record animal irradiations and chemotherapy applications are shown. This new analysis tool allows the effective and detailed analysis of huge amounts of data collected through small animal experiments. It supports proper statistical evaluation of the data and provides excellent retrievable data storage. © The Author(s) 2015.

  7. The Open Spectral Database: an open platform for sharing and searching spectral data.

    PubMed

    Chalk, Stuart J

    2016-01-01

    A number of websites make available spectral data for download (typically as JCAMP-DX text files) and one (ChemSpider) that also allows users to contribute spectral files. As a result, searching and retrieving such spectral data can be time consuming, and difficult to reuse if the data is compressed in the JCAMP-DX file. What is needed is a single resource that allows submission of JCAMP-DX files, export of the raw data in multiple formats, searching based on multiple chemical identifiers, and is open in terms of license and access. To address these issues a new online resource called the Open Spectral Database (OSDB) http://osdb.info/ has been developed and is now available. Built using open source tools, using open code (hosted on GitHub), providing open data, and open to community input about design and functionality, the OSDB is available for anyone to submit spectral data, making it searchable and available to the scientific community. This paper details the concept and coding, internal architecture, export formats, Representational State Transfer (REST) Application Programming Interface and options for submission of data. The OSDB website went live in November 2015. Concurrently, the GitHub repository was made available at https://github.com/stuchalk/OSDB/, and is open for collaborators to join the project, submit issues, and contribute code. The combination of a scripting environment (PHPStorm), a PHP Framework (CakePHP), a relational database (MySQL) and a code repository (GitHub) provides all the capabilities to easily develop REST based websites for ingestion, curation and exposure of open chemical data to the community at all levels. It is hoped this software stack (or equivalent ones in other scripting languages) will be leveraged to make more chemical data available for both humans and computers.

  8. Lowering the Barrier for Standards-Compliant and Discoverable Hydrological Data Publication

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kadlec, J.

    2013-12-01

    The growing need for sharing and integration of hydrological and climate data across multiple organizations has resulted in the development of distributed, services-based, standards-compliant hydrological data management and data hosting systems. The problem with these systems is complicated set-up and deployment. Many existing systems assume that the data publisher has remote-desktop access to a locally managed server and experience with computer network setup. For corporate websites, shared web hosting services with limited root access provide an inexpensive, dynamic web presence solution using the Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP (LAMP) software stack. In this paper, we hypothesize that a webhosting service provides an optimal, low-cost solution for hydrological data hosting. We propose a software architecture of a standards-compliant, lightweight and easy-to-deploy hydrological data management system that can be deployed on the majority of existing shared internet webhosting services. The architecture and design is validated by developing Hydroserver Lite: a PHP and MySQL-based hydrological data hosting package that is fully standards-compliant and compatible with the Consortium of Universities for Advancement of Hydrologic Sciences (CUAHSI) hydrologic information system. It is already being used for management of field data collection by students of the McCall Outdoor Science School in Idaho. For testing, the Hydroserver Lite software has been installed on multiple different free and low-cost webhosting sites including Godaddy, Bluehost and 000webhost. The number of steps required to set-up the server is compared with the number of steps required to set-up other standards-compliant hydrologic data hosting systems including THREDDS, IstSOS and MapServer SOS.

  9. Assessing the Total Economic Value of Improving Water Quality to Inform Water Resources Management: Evidence and Challenges from Southeast Asia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jalilov, S.; Fukushi, K.

    2016-12-01

    Population growth, high rates of economic development and rapid urbanization in the developing countries of Southeast Asia (SEA) have resulted in degradation and depletion of natural resources, including water resources and related ecosystem services. Many urban rivers in the region are highly polluted with domestic, industrial and agricultural wastes. Policymakers are often aware of the direct value of water resources for domestic and industrial consumption, but they often underestimate the indirect value of these functions, since they are not exchanged in the market and do not appear in national income accounts. Underestimation of pollution and over-exploitation of water resources result in a loss of these benefits and have adverse impacts on nearby residents, threatening the long-term sustainable development of natural resources in the region. Behind these constraints lies a lack of knowledge (ignorance) from governments that a clean water environment could bring significant economic benefits. This study has been initiated to tackle this issue and to foster a more rational approach for sustainable urban development in Metro Manila in the Philippines. We applied a Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) based on Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) technique. Results show that users are willing to pay up to PHP 102.42 (2.18) monthly to improve quality of urban waterbodies whereas nonusers are willing to pay up to PHP 366.53 (7.80) as one-time payment towards water quality improvement. The estimated monetary value of water quality improvements would be a useful variable in cost-benefit analyses of various water quality-related policies, in both public and private sectors in Metro Manila. This survey design could serve as a useful template for similar water quality studies in other SEA countries.

  10. 77 FR 39717 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-07-05

    ..., East Main Street, Lexington, KY Lexington, KY 40507. 40507. South Dakota: Lincoln Town of Tea (11-08... Street, www.bakeraecom.com/ Town of Tea, P.O. Tea, SD 57064. index.php/south- Box 128, Tea, SD dakota...

  11. 77 FR 28357 - North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC); Public Meeting

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-14

    ....php?d=992449749&t=a For the teleconference only: US TOLL: 1- 650-479-3207; Access code: 992 449 749... accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids...

  12. Line positions and intensities for the ν3 band of 5 isotopologues of germane for planetary applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boudon, V.; Grigoryan, T.; Philipot, F.; Richard, C.; Tchana, F. Kwabia; Manceron, L.; Rizopoulos, A.; Auwera, J. Vander; Encrenaz, Th.

    2018-01-01

    The germane molecule, GeH4, is present in the atmospheres of giant planets Jupiter and Saturn. The ongoing NASA mission Juno has renewed interest in its spectroscopy, whose accurate modeling is essential for the retrieval of other tropospheric species. We present here the first complete analysis and modeling of line positions and intensities in the strongly absorbing ν1/ν3 stretching dyad region near 2100 cm-1 , for all five germane isotopologues in natural abundance. New infrared spectra were recorded, absolute intensities were extracted through a careful procedure and modeled thanks to the formalism and programs developed in the Dijon group. A database of calculated germane lines, GeCaSDa, has been build and is available online through the Virtual Atomic and Molecular Data Centre (VAMDC) portal and at http://vamdc.icb.cnrs.fr/PHP/gecasda.php.

  13. Pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B - a rare cause of tetany: case report.

    PubMed

    Garcia, Catarina; Correia, Cátia R; Lopes, Lurdes

    2017-06-26

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare group of disorders characterised by end-organ resistance to the parathyroid hormone (PTH). A 16-year-old boy presented with a 2-year history of involuntary dystonic movements involving mainly the left hand, initially after writing and later during physical exercise. Serum calcium was 1.37 mmol/L (2.20-2.69), phosphate 2.1 mmol/L (0.8-1.45) and PTH 302 ng/L (12-88). CT scan of the head demonstrated multiple subcortical and diffuse basal ganglia calcifications. Genetic analysis confirmed a methylation defect in the GNAS cluster on chromosome 20q13.32 which established the diagnosis. Treatment with calcitriol and calcium carbonate led to complete remission of symptoms. Causes of hypocalcaemia should be considered in evaluating patients with movement disorders. The diagnosis of PHP-1B is challenging but the overall prognosis is excellent.

  14. Interactive DataBase of Cosmic Ray Anisotropy (DB A10)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Asipenka, A.S.; Belov, A.V.; Eroshenko, E.F.; Klepach, E.G.; Oleneva, V.A.; Yake, V.G.

    Data on the hourly means of cosmic ray density and anisotropy derived by the GSM method over the 1957-2006 are introduced in to MySQL database. This format allowed an access to data both in local and in the Internet. Using the realized combination of script-language Php and My SQL database the Internet project was created on the access for users data on the CR anisotropy in different formats (http://cr20.izmiran.ru/AnisotropyCR/main.htm/). Usage the sheaf Php and MySQL provides fast receiving data even in the Internet since a request and following process of data are accomplished on the project server. Usage of MySQL basis for the storing data on cosmic ray variations give a possibility to construct requests of different structures, extends the variety of data reflection, makes it possible the conformity data to other systems and usage them in other projects.

  15. Prediction of novel pre-microRNAs with high accuracy through boosting and SVM.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yuanwei; Yang, Yifan; Zhang, Huan; Jiang, Xiaohua; Xu, Bo; Xue, Yu; Cao, Yunxia; Zhai, Qian; Zhai, Yong; Xu, Mingqing; Cooke, Howard J; Shi, Qinghua

    2011-05-15

    High-throughput deep-sequencing technology has generated an unprecedented number of expressed short sequence reads, presenting not only an opportunity but also a challenge for prediction of novel microRNAs. To verify the existence of candidate microRNAs, we have to show that these short sequences can be processed from candidate pre-microRNAs. However, it is laborious and time consuming to verify these using existing experimental techniques. Therefore, here, we describe a new method, miRD, which is constructed using two feature selection strategies based on support vector machines (SVMs) and boosting method. It is a high-efficiency tool for novel pre-microRNA prediction with accuracy up to 94.0% among different species. miRD is implemented in PHP/PERL+MySQL+R and can be freely accessed at http://mcg.ustc.edu.cn/rpg/mird/mird.php.

  16. Escherichia coli DnaE Polymerase Couples Pyrophosphatase Activity to DNA Replication

    PubMed Central

    Lapenta, Fabio; Montón Silva, Alejandro; Brandimarti, Renato; Lanzi, Massimiliano; Gratani, Fabio Lino; Vellosillo Gonzalez, Perceval; Perticarari, Sofia; Hochkoeppler, Alejandro

    2016-01-01

    DNA Polymerases generate pyrophosphate every time they catalyze a step of DNA elongation. This elongation reaction is generally believed as thermodynamically favoured by the hydrolysis of pyrophosphate, catalyzed by inorganic pyrophosphatases. However, the specific action of inorganic pyrophosphatases coupled to DNA replication in vivo was never demonstrated. Here we show that the Polymerase-Histidinol-Phosphatase (PHP) domain of Escherichia coli DNA Polymerase III α subunit features pyrophosphatase activity. We also show that this activity is inhibited by fluoride, as commonly observed for inorganic pyrophosphatases, and we identified 3 amino acids of the PHP active site. Remarkably, E. coli cells expressing variants of these catalytic residues of α subunit feature aberrant phenotypes, poor viability, and are subject to high mutation frequencies. Our findings indicate that DNA Polymerases can couple DNA elongation and pyrophosphate hydrolysis, providing a mechanism for the control of DNA extension rate, and suggest a promising target for novel antibiotics. PMID:27050298

  17. The Neurotropic Properties of AAV-PHP.B Are Limited to C57BL/6J Mice.

    PubMed

    Hordeaux, Juliette; Wang, Qiang; Katz, Nathan; Buza, Elizabeth L; Bell, Peter; Wilson, James M

    2018-03-07

    Improved delivery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to the CNS will greatly enhance their clinical utility. Selection of AAV9 variants in a mouse model led to the isolation of a capsid called PHP.B, which resulted in remarkable transduction of the CNS following intravenous infusion. However, we now show here that this enhanced CNS tropism is restricted to the model in which it was selected, i.e., a Cre transgenic mouse in a C57BL/6J background, and was not found in nonhuman primates or the other commonly used mouse strain BALB/cJ. We also report the potential for serious acute toxicity in NHP after systemic administration of high dose of AAV. Copyright © 2018 The American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Shape Memory Properties and Enzymatic Degradability of Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Based Polyurethane Urea Containing Phenylalanine-Derived Chain Extender.

    PubMed

    Wang, Rong; Zhang, Fanjun; Lin, Weiwei; Liu, Wenkai; Li, Jiehua; Luo, Feng; Wang, Yaning; Tan, Hong

    2018-06-01

    Biodegradable shape memory polymers are promising biomaterials for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Herein, a series of linear biodegradable shape memory poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based polyurethane ureas (PUUs) containing a novel phenylalanine-derived chain extender is synthesized. The phenylalanine-derived chain extender, phenylalanine-hexamethylenediamine-phenylalanine (PHP), contains two chymotrypsin cleaving sites to enhance the enzymatic degradation of PUUs. The degradation rate, the crystallinity, and mechanical properties of PUUs are tailored by the content of PHP. Meanwhile, semicrystalline PCL is not only hydrolytically degradable but also vital for shape memory. Good shape memory ability under body temperature is achieved for PUUs due to the strong interactions in hard segments for permanent crosslinking and the crystallization-melt transition of PCL to switch temporary shape. The PUUs would have a great potential in application as implanting stent. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Education, practical training and professional development for public health practitioners: a scoping review of the literature and insights for sustainable food system capacity-building.

    PubMed

    Wegener, Jessica; Fong, Debbie; Rocha, Cecilia

    2018-06-01

    Noting the upstream positioning of sustainable food systems (SFS) to multiple global crises, the present review described examples of emerging and promising practices to support SFS-oriented education, practical training (PT) and continuing professional development (CPD) among trainees and public health practitioners (PHP). A secondary objective was to compile the evidence into practical considerations for educators, supervising practitioners and professional associations. A scoping review of the literature published between 2007 and 2017 was conducted in May 2017 using four databases: CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus and HSSA, along with bibliography hand-searching and expert consultation. Articles were screened for relevance and specificity by independent raters. Nineteen articles were included for analysis. Two-thirds of the articles related to dietitians and public health nutritionists. Emerging practices included curriculum-based considerations, incorporation of 'sustainability' within professional competencies and self-reflection related to SFS. Descriptions of SFS-related education, PT and CPD practices appeared largely in the literature from developed countries. Articles converged on the need for ecosystems, food systems and sustainability considerations within and across practice to support current and future practitioners. There is growing interest in SFS but guidance to support educators and preceptors is lacking. Updates to dietary guidelines to reflect issues of sustainability are a timely prompt to examine the education, training and development needs of trainees and PHP. Practical examples of emerging practices can empower PHP to promote SFS in all areas of practice. More research is needed to address identified gaps in the literature and to improve SFS-specific education, PT and CPD.

  20. An application of second-order UV-derivative spectrophotometry for study of solvolysis of a novel fluocinolone acetonide ester

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Markovic, Bojan; Vladimirov, Sote; Cudina, Olivera; Savic, Vladimir; Karljikovic-Rajic, Katarina

    2010-02-01

    A novel topical corticosteroid FA-21-PhP, 2-phenoxypropionate ester of fluocinolone acetonide, has been synthesized in order to investigate the possibility of decreasing systemic side effects. In this study model system for in vitro solvolytic reaction of FA-21-PhP has been analyzed in ethanol/water (90:10, v/v) with excess of sodium hydrogen carbonate. The selected conditions have been used as in vitro model for activation of corticosteroid C-21 ester prodrug. The second-order derivative spectrophotometric method (DS) using zero-crossing technique was developed for monitoring ternary mixture of solvolysis. Fluocinolone acetonide (FA) as a solvolyte was determined in the mixture in the concentration range 0.062-0.312 mM using amplitude 2D 274.96. Experimentally determined LOD value was 0.0295 mM. The accuracy of proposed DS method was confirmed with HPLC referent method. Peak area of parent ester FA-21-PhP was used for solvolysis monitoring to ensure the initial stage of changes. Linear relationship in HPLC assay for parent ester was obtained in the concentration range 0.054-0.54 mM, with experimentally determined LOD value of 0.0041 mM. Investigated solvolytic reaction in the presence of excess of NaHCO 3 proceeded via a pseudo-first-order kinetic with significant correlation coefficients 0.9891 and 0.9997 for DS and HPLC, respectively. The values of solvolysis rate constant calculated according to DS and HPLC methods are in good accordance 0.038 and 0.043 h -1, respectively.

  1. Technical development of PubMed interact: an improved interface for MEDLINE/PubMed searches.

    PubMed

    Muin, Michael; Fontelo, Paul

    2006-11-03

    The project aims to create an alternative search interface for MEDLINE/PubMed that may provide assistance to the novice user and added convenience to the advanced user. An earlier version of the project was the 'Slider Interface for MEDLINE/PubMed searches' (SLIM) which provided JavaScript slider bars to control search parameters. In this new version, recent developments in Web-based technologies were implemented. These changes may prove to be even more valuable in enhancing user interactivity through client-side manipulation and management of results. PubMed Interact is a Web-based MEDLINE/PubMed search application built with HTML, JavaScript and PHP. It is implemented on a Windows Server 2003 with Apache 2.0.52, PHP 4.4.1 and MySQL 4.1.18. PHP scripts provide the backend engine that connects with E-Utilities and parses XML files. JavaScript manages client-side functionalities and converts Web pages into interactive platforms using dynamic HTML (DHTML), Document Object Model (DOM) tree manipulation and Ajax methods. With PubMed Interact, users can limit searches with JavaScript slider bars, preview result counts, delete citations from the list, display and add related articles and create relevance lists. Many interactive features occur at client-side, which allow instant feedback without reloading or refreshing the page resulting in a more efficient user experience. PubMed Interact is a highly interactive Web-based search application for MEDLINE/PubMed that explores recent trends in Web technologies like DOM tree manipulation and Ajax. It may become a valuable technical development for online medical search applications.

  2. Communicating with the Net Generation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-03-11

    rich , digitally constructed communication and information world.2 Although this generation is often referred to as Generation Y or Millennial...Generations at Work, Millenials at Work, http://www.generationsatwork. com /articles_millennials_at_work.php (accessed November 21, 2010). 31 Thomas

  3. Renal Diet for Vegetarians: Which Protein Sources Are Best?

    MedlinePlus

    ... for calories and other important nutrients. Type of vegetarian diet Protein sources Vegan — allows only plant-based foods ... vegan_renal_patients.php. Accessed April 6, 2016. Vegetarian diets in chronic kidney disease. Vegetarian Nutrition, Academy of ...

  4. 78 FR 7464 - Large Scale Networking (LSN) ; Joint Engineering Team (JET)

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-02-01

    ... NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION Large Scale Networking (LSN) ; Joint Engineering Team (JET) AGENCY: The Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) National Coordination...://www.nitrd.gov/nitrdgroups/index.php?title=Joint_Engineering_Team_ (JET)#title. SUMMARY: The JET...

  5. 78 FR 25060 - North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC); Public Meetings

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-29

    .../akfsc/j.php?ED=225073312&UID=1393421722&PW=NOGI0NzlkNDky&RT=MiM0 2. If requested, enter your name and... Accommodations The meeting is physically accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language...

  6. A new information architecture, website and services for the CMS experiment

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

    Taylor, Lucas; Rusack, Eleanor; Zemleris, Vidmantas

    2012-01-01

    The age and size of the CMS collaboration at the LHC means it now has many hundreds of inhomogeneous web sites and services, and hundreds of thousands of documents. We describe a major initiative to create a single coherent CMS internal and public web site. This uses the Drupal web Content Management System (now supported by CERN/IT) on top of a standard LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and php/perl). The new navigation, content and search services are coherently integrated with numerous existing CERN services (CDS, EDMS, Indico, phonebook, Twiki) as well as many CMS internal Web services. We describe themore » information architecture, the system design, implementation and monitoring, the document and content database, security aspects, and our deployment strategy, which ensured continual smooth operation of all systems at all times.« less

  7. A new Information Architecture, Website and Services for the CMS Experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Taylor, Lucas; Rusack, Eleanor; Zemleris, Vidmantas

    2012-12-01

    The age and size of the CMS collaboration at the LHC means it now has many hundreds of inhomogeneous web sites and services, and hundreds of thousands of documents. We describe a major initiative to create a single coherent CMS internal and public web site. This uses the Drupal web Content Management System (now supported by CERN/IT) on top of a standard LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and php/perl). The new navigation, content and search services are coherently integrated with numerous existing CERN services (CDS, EDMS, Indico, phonebook, Twiki) as well as many CMS internal Web services. We describe the information architecture; the system design, implementation and monitoring; the document and content database; security aspects; and our deployment strategy, which ensured continual smooth operation of all systems at all times.

  8. IMGMD: A platform for the integration and standardisation of In silico Microbial Genome-scale Metabolic Models.

    PubMed

    Ye, Chao; Xu, Nan; Dong, Chuan; Ye, Yuannong; Zou, Xuan; Chen, Xiulai; Guo, Fengbiao; Liu, Liming

    2017-04-07

    Genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) constitute a platform that combines genome sequences and detailed biochemical information to quantify microbial physiology at the system level. To improve the unity, integrity, correctness, and format of data in published GSMMs, a consensus IMGMD database was built in the LAMP (Linux + Apache + MySQL + PHP) system by integrating and standardizing 328 GSMMs constructed for 139 microorganisms. The IMGMD database can help microbial researchers download manually curated GSMMs, rapidly reconstruct standard GSMMs, design pathways, and identify metabolic targets for strategies on strain improvement. Moreover, the IMGMD database facilitates the integration of wet-lab and in silico data to gain an additional insight into microbial physiology. The IMGMD database is freely available, without any registration requirements, at http://imgmd.jiangnan.edu.cn/database.

  9. The Lowell Observatory Predoctoral Scholar Program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prato, Lisa A.

    2017-01-01

    Lowell Observatory is pleased to solicit applications for our Predoctoral Scholar Fellowship Program. Now beginning its ninth year, this program is designed to provide unique research opportunities to graduate students in good standing, currently enrolled at Ph.D. granting institutions. Lowell staff research spans a wide range of topics, from astronomical instrumentation, to icy bodies in our solar system, exoplanet science, stellar populations, star formation, and dwarf galaxies. The Observatory's new 4.3 meter Discovery Channel Telescope is now operating at full science capacity. Student research is expected to lead to a thesis dissertation appropriate for graduation at the doctoral level at the student's home institution. For more information, see http://www2.lowell.edu/rsch/predoc.php and links therein. Applications for Fall 2017 are due by May 1, 2017; alternate application dates will be considered on an individual basis.

  10. Sea-Level Projections from the SeaRISE Initiative

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nowicki, Sophie; Bindschadler, Robert

    2011-01-01

    SeaRISE (Sea-level Response to Ice Sheet Evolution) is a community organized modeling effort, whose goal is to inform the fifth IPCC of the potential sea-level contribution from the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets in the 21st and 22nd century. SeaRISE seeks to determine the most likely ice sheet response to imposed climatic forcing by initializing an ensemble of models with common datasets and applying the same forcing to each model. Sensitivity experiments were designed to quantify the sea-level rise associated with a change in: 1) surface mass balance, 2) basal lubrication, and 3) ocean induced basal melt. The range of responses, resulting from the multi-model approach, is interpreted as a proxy of uncertainty in our sea-level projections. http://websrv.cs .umt.edu/isis/index.php/SeaRISE_Assessment.

  11. WEB-server for search of a periodicity in amino acid and nucleotide sequences

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    E Frenkel, F.; Skryabin, K. G.; Korotkov, E. V.

    2017-12-01

    A new web server (http://victoria.biengi.ac.ru/splinter/login.php) was designed and developed to search for periodicity in nucleotide and amino acid sequences. The web server operation is based upon a new mathematical method of searching for multiple alignments, which is founded on the position weight matrices optimization, as well as on implementation of the two-dimensional dynamic programming. This approach allows the construction of multiple alignments of the indistinctly similar amino acid and nucleotide sequences that accumulated more than 1.5 substitutions per a single amino acid or a nucleotide without performing the sequences paired comparisons. The article examines the principles of the web server operation and two examples of studying amino acid and nucleotide sequences, as well as information that could be obtained using the web server.

  12. OSPREY: protein design with ensembles, flexibility, and provable algorithms.

    PubMed

    Gainza, Pablo; Roberts, Kyle E; Georgiev, Ivelin; Lilien, Ryan H; Keedy, Daniel A; Chen, Cheng-Yu; Reza, Faisal; Anderson, Amy C; Richardson, David C; Richardson, Jane S; Donald, Bruce R

    2013-01-01

    We have developed a suite of protein redesign algorithms that improves realistic in silico modeling of proteins. These algorithms are based on three characteristics that make them unique: (1) improved flexibility of the protein backbone, protein side-chains, and ligand to accurately capture the conformational changes that are induced by mutations to the protein sequence; (2) modeling of proteins and ligands as ensembles of low-energy structures to better approximate binding affinity; and (3) a globally optimal protein design search, guaranteeing that the computational predictions are optimal with respect to the input model. Here, we illustrate the importance of these three characteristics. We then describe OSPREY, a protein redesign suite that implements our protein design algorithms. OSPREY has been used prospectively, with experimental validation, in several biomedically relevant settings. We show in detail how OSPREY has been used to predict resistance mutations and explain why improved flexibility, ensembles, and provability are essential for this application. OSPREY is free and open source under a Lesser GPL license. The latest version is OSPREY 2.0. The program, user manual, and source code are available at www.cs.duke.edu/donaldlab/software.php. osprey@cs.duke.edu. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Piloting a Collaborative Web-Based System for Testing ICD-11.

    PubMed

    Donada, Marc; Kostanjsek, Nenad; Della Mea, Vincenzo; Celik, Can; Jakob, Robert

    2017-01-01

    The 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), for the first time in ICD history, deployed web-based collaboration of experts and ICT tools. To ensure that ICD-11 is working well, it needs to be systematically field tested in different settings, across the world. This will be done by means of a number of experiments. In order to support its implementation, a web-based system (ICDfit) has been designed and developed. The present paper illustrates the current prototype of the system and its technical testing. the system has been designed according to WHO requirements, and implemented using PHP and MySQL. Then, a preliminary technical test has been designed and run in January 2016, involving 8 users. They had to carry out double coding, that is, coding case summaries with both ICD-10 and ICD-11, and answering quick questions on the coding difficulty. the 8 users coded 632 cases each, spending an average of 163 seconds per case. While we found an issue in the mechanism used to record coding times, no further issues were found. the proposed system seems to be technically adequate for supporting future ICD-11 testing.

  14. 78 FR 281 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-03

    ... customer perception in relationship to customer requirements. PHP has determined that the best method for..., Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), [email protected] and Plant Health Inspection Service Title: Stakeholder/Customer Satisfaction Survey. OMB Control...

  15. Systemic Thinking: Enhancing Intelligence Preparation and Estimates

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-04-30

    informally based on previous combat experience of the staff participants. 47 Peter Checkland , Systems Thinking, Systems Practice (John Wiley & Sons...Deparment, 2009, 3-5; http://journals.isss.org/index.php/proceedings52nd/article/view/1032/322 (accessed 23 March 2010). Checkland , Peter

  16. 77 FR 59950 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-01

    .../. West 92nd Avenue, 80031. Westminster, CO 80031. Arapahoe City of Centennial The Honorable Southeast.../ Mayor, City of Authority, 76 index.php/colorado/ Centennial, 13133 Inverness Drive arapahoe/. East Arapahoe East, Suite A, Road, Centennial, Centennial, CO CO 80112. 80112. Arapahoe Unincorporated The...

  17. Facilitated IEP Meetings. PHP-c90

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    To help special education planning teams reach agreements, the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Special Education Mediation Service (MNSEMS) provide the option of facilitated IEP meetings. This option is available for IEP (Individualized Education Program), IIIP (Individual Interagency Intervention Plan), and IFSP (Individual…

  18. The Roma at Risk

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-04-01

    www.amnesty.ca/resource_centre/news/view.php?load=arcview&article=5618&c=Resource+Centre+News (accessed 15 November 2010). 68 Covey, Jock , Dziedzic...Association. 2008. Covey, Jock , Dziedzic, Michael J. and Hawley, Leonard. The Quest for Viable Peace. Washington D.C. 2005. European Union. Human

  19. DTMiner: identification of potential disease targets through biomedical literature mining

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Dong; Zhang, Meizhuo; Xie, Yanping; Wang, Fan; Chen, Ming; Zhu, Kenny Q.; Wei, Jia

    2016-01-01

    Motivation: Biomedical researchers often search through massive catalogues of literature to look for potential relationships between genes and diseases. Given the rapid growth of biomedical literature, automatic relation extraction, a crucial technology in biomedical literature mining, has shown great potential to support research of gene-related diseases. Existing work in this field has produced datasets that are limited both in scale and accuracy. Results: In this study, we propose a reliable and efficient framework that takes large biomedical literature repositories as inputs, identifies credible relationships between diseases and genes, and presents possible genes related to a given disease and possible diseases related to a given gene. The framework incorporates name entity recognition (NER), which identifies occurrences of genes and diseases in texts, association detection whereby we extract and evaluate features from gene–disease pairs, and ranking algorithms that estimate how closely the pairs are related. The F1-score of the NER phase is 0.87, which is higher than existing studies. The association detection phase takes drastically less time than previous work while maintaining a comparable F1-score of 0.86. The end-to-end result achieves a 0.259 F1-score for the top 50 genes associated with a disease, which performs better than previous work. In addition, we released a web service for public use of the dataset. Availability and Implementation: The implementation of the proposed algorithms is publicly available at http://gdr-web.rwebox.com/public_html/index.php?page=download.php. The web service is available at http://gdr-web.rwebox.com/public_html/index.php. Contact: jenny.wei@astrazeneca.com or kzhu@cs.sjtu.edu.cn Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:27506226

  20. DTMiner: identification of potential disease targets through biomedical literature mining.

    PubMed

    Xu, Dong; Zhang, Meizhuo; Xie, Yanping; Wang, Fan; Chen, Ming; Zhu, Kenny Q; Wei, Jia

    2016-12-01

    Biomedical researchers often search through massive catalogues of literature to look for potential relationships between genes and diseases. Given the rapid growth of biomedical literature, automatic relation extraction, a crucial technology in biomedical literature mining, has shown great potential to support research of gene-related diseases. Existing work in this field has produced datasets that are limited both in scale and accuracy. In this study, we propose a reliable and efficient framework that takes large biomedical literature repositories as inputs, identifies credible relationships between diseases and genes, and presents possible genes related to a given disease and possible diseases related to a given gene. The framework incorporates name entity recognition (NER), which identifies occurrences of genes and diseases in texts, association detection whereby we extract and evaluate features from gene-disease pairs, and ranking algorithms that estimate how closely the pairs are related. The F1-score of the NER phase is 0.87, which is higher than existing studies. The association detection phase takes drastically less time than previous work while maintaining a comparable F1-score of 0.86. The end-to-end result achieves a 0.259 F1-score for the top 50 genes associated with a disease, which performs better than previous work. In addition, we released a web service for public use of the dataset. The implementation of the proposed algorithms is publicly available at http://gdr-web.rwebox.com/public_html/index.php?page=download.php The web service is available at http://gdr-web.rwebox.com/public_html/index.php CONTACT: jenny.wei@astrazeneca.com or kzhu@cs.sjtu.edu.cn Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press.

  1. When Will It Be ...?: U.S. Naval Observatory Sidereal Time and Julian Date Calculators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chizek Frouard, Malynda R.; Lesniak, Michael V.; Bartlett, Jennifer L.

    2017-01-01

    Sidereal time and Julian date are two values often used in observational astronomy that can be tedious to calculate. Fortunately, the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) has redesigned its on-line Sidereal Time and Julian Date (JD) calculators to provide data through an Application Programming Interface (API). This flexible interface returns dates and times in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) that can be incorporated into third-party websites or applications.Via the API, Sidereal Time can be obtained for any location on Earth for any date occurring in the current, previous, or subsequent year. Up to 9999 iterations of sidereal time data with intervals from 1 second to 1095 days can be generated, as long as the data doesn’t extend past the date limits. The API provides the Gregorian calendar date and time (in UT1), Greenwich Mean Sidereal Time, Greenwich Apparent Sidereal Time, Local Mean Sidereal Time, Local Apparent Sidereal Time, and the Equation of the Equinoxes.Julian Date can be converted to calendar date, either Julian or Gregorian as appropriate, for any date between JD 0 (January 1, 4713 BCE proleptic Julian) and JD 5373484 (December 31, 9999 CE Gregorian); the reverse calendar date to Julian Date conversion is also available. The calendar date and Julian Date are returned for all API requests; the day of the week is also returned for Julian Date to calendar date conversions.On-line documentation for using all USNO API-enabled calculators, including sample calls, is available (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/api.php).For those who prefer using traditional data input forms, Sidereal Time can still be accessed at http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/siderealtime.php, and the Julian Date Converter at http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php.

  2. Technical development of PubMed Interact: an improved interface for MEDLINE/PubMed searches

    PubMed Central

    Muin, Michael; Fontelo, Paul

    2006-01-01

    Background The project aims to create an alternative search interface for MEDLINE/PubMed that may provide assistance to the novice user and added convenience to the advanced user. An earlier version of the project was the 'Slider Interface for MEDLINE/PubMed searches' (SLIM) which provided JavaScript slider bars to control search parameters. In this new version, recent developments in Web-based technologies were implemented. These changes may prove to be even more valuable in enhancing user interactivity through client-side manipulation and management of results. Results PubMed Interact is a Web-based MEDLINE/PubMed search application built with HTML, JavaScript and PHP. It is implemented on a Windows Server 2003 with Apache 2.0.52, PHP 4.4.1 and MySQL 4.1.18. PHP scripts provide the backend engine that connects with E-Utilities and parses XML files. JavaScript manages client-side functionalities and converts Web pages into interactive platforms using dynamic HTML (DHTML), Document Object Model (DOM) tree manipulation and Ajax methods. With PubMed Interact, users can limit searches with JavaScript slider bars, preview result counts, delete citations from the list, display and add related articles and create relevance lists. Many interactive features occur at client-side, which allow instant feedback without reloading or refreshing the page resulting in a more efficient user experience. Conclusion PubMed Interact is a highly interactive Web-based search application for MEDLINE/PubMed that explores recent trends in Web technologies like DOM tree manipulation and Ajax. It may become a valuable technical development for online medical search applications. PMID:17083729

  3. Hyperactivity of caudate, parahippocampal, and prefrontal regions during working memory in never-medicated persons at clinical high-risk for psychosis.

    PubMed

    Thermenos, Heidi W; Juelich, Richard J; DiChiara, Samantha R; Mesholam-Gately, Raquelle I; Woodberry, Kristen A; Wojcik, Joanne; Makris, Nikos; Keshavan, Matcheri S; Whitfield-Gabrieli, Susan; Woo, Tsung-Ung W; Petryshen, Tracey L; Goldstein, Jill M; Shenton, Martha E; McCarley, Robert W; Seidman, Larry J

    2016-05-01

    Deficits in working memory (WM) are a core feature of schizophrenia (SZ) and other psychotic disorders. We examined brain activity during WM in persons at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis. Thirty-seven CHR and 34 healthy control participants underwent functional MRI (fMRI) on a 3.0T scanner while performing an N-back WM task. The sample included a sub-sample of CHR participants who had no lifetime history of treatment with psychotropic medications (n=11). Data were analyzed using SPM8 (2-back>0-back contrast). Pearson correlations between brain activity, symptoms, and WM performance were examined. The total CHR group and medication-naive CHR sub-sample were comparable to controls in most demographic features and in N-back WM performance, but had significantly lower IQ. Relative to controls, medication-naïve CHR showed hyperactivity in the left parahippocampus (PHP) and the left caudate during performance of the N-back WM task. Relative to medication-exposed CHR, medication naïve CHR exhibited hyperactivity in the left caudate and the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). DLPFC activity was significantly negatively correlated with WM performance. PHP, caudate and DLPFC activity correlated strongly with symptoms, but results did not withstand FDR-correction for multiple comparisons. When all CHR participants were combined (regardless of medication status), only trend-level PHP hyperactivity was observed in CHR relative to controls. Medication-naïve CHR exhibit hyperactivity in regions that subserve WM. These regions are implicated in studies of schizophrenia and risk for psychosis. Results emphasize the importance of medication status in the interpretation of task - induced brain activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Genetic manipulation of Bacillus methanolicus, a gram-positive, thermotolerant methylotroph.

    PubMed Central

    Cue, D; Lam, H; Dillingham, R L; Hanson, R S; Flickinger, M C

    1997-01-01

    We report the fist genetic transformation system, shuttle vectors, and integrative vectors for the thermotolerant, methylotrophic bacterium Bacillus methanolicus. By using a polyethylene glycol-mediated transformation procedure, we have successfully transformed B. methanolicus with both integrative and multicopy plasmids. For plasmids with a single BmeTI recognition site, dam methylation of plasmid DNA (in vivo or in vitro) was found to enhance transformation efficiency from 7- to 11-fold. Two low-copy-number Escherichia coli-B, methanolicus shuttle plasmids, pDQ507 and pDQ508, are described. pDQ508 caries the replication origin cloned from a 17-kb endogenous B. methanolicus plasmid, pBM1. pDQ507 carries a cloned B. methanolicus DNA fragment, pmr-1, possibly of chromosomal origin, that supports maintenance of pDQ507 as a circular, extrachromosomal DNA molecule. Deletion analysis of pDQ507 indicated two regions required for replication, i.e., a 90-bp AT-rich segment containing a 46-bp imperfect, inverted repeat sequence and a second region 65% homologous to the B. subtilis dpp operon. We also evaluated two E. coli-B. subtilis vectors, pEN1 and pHP13, for use as E. coli-B. methanolicus shuttle vectors. The plasmids pHP13, pDQ507, and pDQ508 were segregationally and structurally stable in B. methanolicus for greater than 60 generations of growth under nonselective conditions; pEN1 was segregationally unstable. Single-stranded plasmid DNA was detected in B. methanolicus transformants carrying either pEN1, pHP13, or pDQ508, suggesting that pDQ508, like the B. subtilis plasmids, is replicated by a rolling-circle mechanism. These studies provide the basic tools for the genetic manipulation of B. methanolicus. PMID:9097439

  5. Genetic manipulation of Bacillus methanolicus, a gram-positive, thermotolerant methylotroph.

    PubMed

    Cue, D; Lam, H; Dillingham, R L; Hanson, R S; Flickinger, M C

    1997-04-01

    We report the fist genetic transformation system, shuttle vectors, and integrative vectors for the thermotolerant, methylotrophic bacterium Bacillus methanolicus. By using a polyethylene glycol-mediated transformation procedure, we have successfully transformed B. methanolicus with both integrative and multicopy plasmids. For plasmids with a single BmeTI recognition site, dam methylation of plasmid DNA (in vivo or in vitro) was found to enhance transformation efficiency from 7- to 11-fold. Two low-copy-number Escherichia coli-B, methanolicus shuttle plasmids, pDQ507 and pDQ508, are described. pDQ508 caries the replication origin cloned from a 17-kb endogenous B. methanolicus plasmid, pBM1. pDQ507 carries a cloned B. methanolicus DNA fragment, pmr-1, possibly of chromosomal origin, that supports maintenance of pDQ507 as a circular, extrachromosomal DNA molecule. Deletion analysis of pDQ507 indicated two regions required for replication, i.e., a 90-bp AT-rich segment containing a 46-bp imperfect, inverted repeat sequence and a second region 65% homologous to the B. subtilis dpp operon. We also evaluated two E. coli-B. subtilis vectors, pEN1 and pHP13, for use as E. coli-B. methanolicus shuttle vectors. The plasmids pHP13, pDQ507, and pDQ508 were segregationally and structurally stable in B. methanolicus for greater than 60 generations of growth under nonselective conditions; pEN1 was segregationally unstable. Single-stranded plasmid DNA was detected in B. methanolicus transformants carrying either pEN1, pHP13, or pDQ508, suggesting that pDQ508, like the B. subtilis plasmids, is replicated by a rolling-circle mechanism. These studies provide the basic tools for the genetic manipulation of B. methanolicus.

  6. Who are the Millennials?

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-12-01

    CDs that have adult themed lyrics (Vogel, 2001; DeBard, 2004; Vogt, 2005; Epstein & Howes, 2006; NAS, 2006). Parents of Millennials are also highly...www.lifecourse.com/news/millennialssurvey.php, Accessed 24 July 2007 Mannheim, K. (1928), “On the Problem of Generations”, in Essays on the Sociology of

  7. 78 FR 753 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-04

    ..., Monroe Department, 2798 m/index.php/ 5100P). County, Marathon Overseas Highway, florida/monroe-3/. Airport Terminal, Suite 330, 9400 Overseas Marathon, FL Highway, Suite 33050. 210, Marathon, FL 33050.../ 6679P). County, Marathon Overseas Highway, florida/monroe-3/. Airport Terminal, Suite 330, 9400 Overseas...

  8. 76 FR 60449 - Notice of Availability of a Pest Risk Analysis for the Importation of Fresh Tejocote Fruit From...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-29

    ... coming. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. David B. Lamb, Import Specialist, RPM, PHP, PPQ, APHIS, 4700... from certain parts of the world to prevent plant pests from being introduced into and spread within the...

  9. 49 CFR 192.949 - How does an operator notify PHMSA?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) PIPELINE SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF... Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Information Resources Manager, PHP-10... Management Database (IMDB) Web site at http://primis.rspa.dot.gov/gasimp/. [68 FR 69817, Dec. 15, 2003, as...

  10. 49 CFR 192.949 - How does an operator notify PHMSA?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) PIPELINE SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF... Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Information Resources Manager, PHP-10... Management Database (IMDB) Web site at http://primis.rspa.dot.gov/gasimp/. [68 FR 69817, Dec. 15, 2003, as...

  11. 49 CFR 192.949 - How does an operator notify PHMSA?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) PIPELINE SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF... Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Information Resources Manager, PHP-10... Management Database (IMDB) Web site at http://primis.rspa.dot.gov/gasimp/. [68 FR 69817, Dec. 15, 2003, as...

  12. 49 CFR 192.949 - How does an operator notify PHMSA?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) PIPELINE SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF... Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, Information Resources Manager, PHP-10... Management Database (IMDB) Web site at http://primis.rspa.dot.gov/gasimp/. [68 FR 69817, Dec. 15, 2003, as...

  13. MAGI: a Node.js web service for fast microRNA-Seq analysis in a GPU infrastructure.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jihoon; Levy, Eric; Ferbrache, Alex; Stepanowsky, Petra; Farcas, Claudiu; Wang, Shuang; Brunner, Stefan; Bath, Tyler; Wu, Yuan; Ohno-Machado, Lucila

    2014-10-01

    MAGI is a web service for fast MicroRNA-Seq data analysis in a graphics processing unit (GPU) infrastructure. Using just a browser, users have access to results as web reports in just a few hours->600% end-to-end performance improvement over state of the art. MAGI's salient features are (i) transfer of large input files in native FASTA with Qualities (FASTQ) format through drag-and-drop operations, (ii) rapid prediction of microRNA target genes leveraging parallel computing with GPU devices, (iii) all-in-one analytics with novel feature extraction, statistical test for differential expression and diagnostic plot generation for quality control and (iv) interactive visualization and exploration of results in web reports that are readily available for publication. MAGI relies on the Node.js JavaScript framework, along with NVIDIA CUDA C, PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Perl and R. It is freely available at http://magi.ucsd.edu. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press.

  14. Detection of new-onset choroidal neovascularization.

    PubMed

    Do, Diana V

    2013-05-01

    To highlight the most common methods that are used to detect new-onset choroidal neovascularization (CNV) as a result of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Numerous modalities are available to try to detect CNV. Amsler grid testing, preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography are tools that may be used to detect CNV. The Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Detection of Onset of new Choroidal neovascularization Study (AMD DOC Study) evaluated the sensitivity of time domain OCT, relative to fluorescein angiography, in detecting new-onset neovascular AMD within a 2-year period. The sensitivity of each modality for detecting CNV was OCT 0.40 [(95% confidence interval (95% CI) (0.16-0.68), supervised Amsler grid 0.42 (95% CI 0.15-0.72), and PHP 0.50 (95% CI 0.23-0.77)]. Numerous modalities are available to try to detect CNV. The prospective AMD DOC Study demonstrated that fluorescein angiography still remains the best method to detect new-onset CNV.

  15. Probing fast heating in magnetic tunnel junction structures with exchange bias

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Papusoi, C.; Sousa, R.; Herault, J.; Prejbeanu, I. L.; Dieny, B.

    2008-10-01

    Heat diffusion in a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) having a ferromagnetic/antiferromagnetic free layer is investigated. The MTJ is heated by an electric current pulse of power PHP, flowing through the junction in current perpendicular to the plane (CPP) geometry, via Joule heat dissipation in the tunnel barrier. According to a proposed one-dimensional (1D) model of heat diffusion, when an electric voltage is applied to the MTJ, the free layer experiences a transient temperature regime, characterized by an exponential increase of its temperature TAF with a time constant τTR, followed by a steady temperature regime characterized by TAF=TRT+αPHP, where TRT is the room temperature and α is a constant. Magnetic transport measurements of exchange bias HEX acting on the free layer allow the determination of α and τTR. The experimental values of α and τTR are in agreement with those calculated using the 1D model and an estimation of the MTJ thermodynamic parameters based on the Dulong-Petit and Widemann-Franz laws.

  16. WebCN: A web-based computation tool for in situ-produced cosmogenic nuclides

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Xiuzeng; Li, Yingkui; Bourgeois, Mike; Caffee, Marc; Elmore, David; Granger, Darryl; Muzikar, Paul; Smith, Preston

    2007-06-01

    Cosmogenic nuclide techniques are increasingly being utilized in geoscience research. For this it is critical to establish an effective, easily accessible and well defined tool for cosmogenic nuclide computations. We have been developing a web-based tool (WebCN) to calculate surface exposure ages and erosion rates based on the nuclide concentrations measured by the accelerator mass spectrometry. WebCN for 10Be and 26Al has been finished and published at http://www.physics.purdue.edu/primelab/for_users/rockage.html. WebCN for 36Cl is under construction. WebCN is designed as a three-tier client/server model and uses the open source PostgreSQL for the database management and PHP for the interface design and calculations. On the client side, an internet browser and Microsoft Access are used as application interfaces to access the system. Open Database Connectivity is used to link PostgreSQL and Microsoft Access. WebCN accounts for both spatial and temporal distributions of the cosmic ray flux to calculate the production rates of in situ-produced cosmogenic nuclides at the Earth's surface.

  17. The Moroccan Genetic Disease Database (MGDD): a database for DNA variations related to inherited disorders and disease susceptibility.

    PubMed

    Charoute, Hicham; Nahili, Halima; Abidi, Omar; Gabi, Khalid; Rouba, Hassan; Fakiri, Malika; Barakat, Abdelhamid

    2014-03-01

    National and ethnic mutation databases provide comprehensive information about genetic variations reported in a population or an ethnic group. In this paper, we present the Moroccan Genetic Disease Database (MGDD), a catalogue of genetic data related to diseases identified in the Moroccan population. We used the PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases to identify available articles published until April 2013. The Database is designed and implemented on a three-tier model using Mysql relational database and the PHP programming language. To date, the database contains 425 mutations and 208 polymorphisms found in 301 genes and 259 diseases. Most Mendelian diseases in the Moroccan population follow autosomal recessive mode of inheritance (74.17%) and affect endocrine, nutritional and metabolic physiology. The MGDD database provides reference information for researchers, clinicians and health professionals through a user-friendly Web interface. Its content should be useful to improve researches in human molecular genetics, disease diagnoses and design of association studies. MGDD can be publicly accessed at http://mgdd.pasteur.ma.

  18. What to consider when pseudohypoparathyroidism is ruled out: iPPSD and differential diagnosis.

    PubMed

    Pereda, Arrate; Garin, Intza; Perez de Nanclares, Guiomar

    2018-03-02

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare disease whose phenotypic features are rather difficult to identify in some cases. Thus, although these patients may present with the Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) phenotype, which is characterized by small stature, obesity with a rounded face, subcutaneous ossifications, mental retardation and brachydactyly, its manifestations are somewhat variable. Indeed, some of them present with a complete phenotype, whereas others show only subtle manifestations. In addition, the features of the AHO phenotype are not specific to it and a similar phenotype is also commonly observed in other syndromes. Brachydactyly type E (BDE) is the most specific and objective feature of the AHO phenotype, and several genes have been associated with syndromic BDE in the past few years. Moreover, these syndromes have a skeletal and endocrinological phenotype that overlaps with AHO/PHP. In light of the above, we have developed an algorithm to aid in genetic testing of patients with clinical features of AHO but with no causative molecular defect at the GNAS locus. Starting with the feature of brachydactyly, this algorithm allows the differential diagnosis to be broadened and, with the addition of other clinical features, can guide genetic testing. We reviewed our series of patients (n = 23) with a clinical diagnosis of AHO and with brachydactyly type E or similar pattern, who were negative for GNAS anomalies, and classify them according to the diagnosis algorithm to finally propose and analyse the most probable gene(s) in each case. A review of the clinical data for our series of patients, and subsequent analysis of the candidate gene(s), allowed detection of the underlying molecular defect in 12 out of 23 patients: five patients harboured a mutation in PRKAR1A, one in PDE4D, four in TRPS1 and two in PTHLH. This study confirmed that the screening of other genes implicated in syndromes with BDE and AHO or a similar phenotype is very helpful for establishing a correct genetic diagnosis for those patients who have been misdiagnosed with "AHO-like phenotype" with an unknown genetic cause, and also for better describing the characteristic and differential features of these less common syndromes.

  19. Brachydactyly E: isolated or as a feature of a syndrome.

    PubMed

    Pereda, Arrate; Garin, Intza; Garcia-Barcina, Maria; Gener, Blanca; Beristain, Elena; Ibañez, Ane Miren; Perez de Nanclares, Guiomar

    2013-09-12

    Brachydactyly (BD) refers to the shortening of the hands, feet or both. There are different types of BD; among them, type E (BDE) is a rare type that can present as an isolated feature or as part of more complex syndromes, such as: pseudohypopthyroidism (PHP), hypertension with BD or Bilginturan BD (HTNB), BD with mental retardation (BDMR) or BDE with short stature, PTHLH type. Each syndrome has characteristic patterns of skeletal involvement. However, brachydactyly is not a constant feature and shows a high degree of phenotypic variability. In addition, there are other syndromes that can be misdiagnosed as brachydactyly type E, some of which will also be discussed. The objective of this review is to describe some of the syndromes in which BDE is present, focusing on clinical, biochemical and genetic characteristics as features of differential diagnoses, with the aim of establishing an algorithm for their differential diagnosis. As in our experience many of these patients are recruited at Endocrinology and/or Pediatric Endocrinology Services due to their short stature, we have focused the algorithm in those steps that could mainly help these professionals.

  20. Brachydactyly E: isolated or as a feature of a syndrome

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Brachydactyly (BD) refers to the shortening of the hands, feet or both. There are different types of BD; among them, type E (BDE) is a rare type that can present as an isolated feature or as part of more complex syndromes, such as: pseudohypopthyroidism (PHP), hypertension with BD or Bilginturan BD (HTNB), BD with mental retardation (BDMR) or BDE with short stature, PTHLH type. Each syndrome has characteristic patterns of skeletal involvement. However, brachydactyly is not a constant feature and shows a high degree of phenotypic variability. In addition, there are other syndromes that can be misdiagnosed as brachydactyly type E, some of which will also be discussed. The objective of this review is to describe some of the syndromes in which BDE is present, focusing on clinical, biochemical and genetic characteristics as features of differential diagnoses, with the aim of establishing an algorithm for their differential diagnosis. As in our experience many of these patients are recruited at Endocrinology and/or Pediatric Endocrinology Services due to their short stature, we have focused the algorithm in those steps that could mainly help these professionals. PMID:24028571

  1. Historic halo displays as weather indicator: Criteria and examples

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Neuhäuser, Dagmar L.; Neuhäuser, Ralph

    2016-04-01

    There are numerous celestial signs reported in historic records, many of them refer to atmospheric ("sub-lunar") phenomena, such as ice halos and aurorae. In an interdisciplinary collaboration between astrophysics and cultural astronomy, we noticed that celestial observations including meteorological phenomena are often misinterpreted, mostly due to missing genuine criteria: especially ice crystal halos were recorded frequently in past centuries for religious reasons, but are mistaken nowadays often for other phenomena like aurorae. Ice halo displays yield clear information on humidity and temperature in certain atmospheric layers, and thereby indicate certain weather patterns. Ancient so-called rain makers used halo observations for weather forecast; e.g., a connection between certain halo displays and rain a few day later is statistically significant. Ice halos exist around sun and moon and are reported for both (they can stay for several days): many near, middle, and far eastern records from day- and night-time include such observations with high frequency. (Partly based on publications on halos by D.L. Neuhäuser & R. Neuhäuser, available at http://www.astro.uni-jena.de/index.php/terra-astronomy.html)

  2. National Strategic Computing Initiative Strategic Plan

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-07-01

    23 A.6 National Nanotechnology Initiative...Initiative: https://www.nitrd.gov/nitrdgroups/index.php?title=Big_Data_(BD_SSG)  National Nanotechnology Initiative: http://www.nano.gov  Precision...computing. While not limited to neuromorphic technologies, the National Nanotechnology Initiative’s first Grand Challenge seeks to achieve brain

  3. OHD/HL - XEFS

    Science.gov Websites

    Assimilator Ensemble Post-processor (EnsPost) Hydrologic Model Output Statistics (HMOS) Ensemble Verification capabilities (see diagram below): the Ensemble Pre-processor, the Ensemble Post-processor, the Hydrologic Model (OpenDA, http://www.openda.org/joomla/index.php) to be used within the CHPS environment. Ensemble Post

  4. Solar activity and erupting prominences [HD Video

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    Solar activity and erupting prominences. EIT 304A (Jan. 8-10, 2000) Credit: NASA/GSFC/SOHO/ESA To learn more go to the SOHO website: sohowww.nascom.nasa.gov/home.html To learn more about NASA's Sun Earth Day go here: sunearthday.nasa.gov/2010/index.php

  5. The Terrorist Threat to Liquefied Natural Gas: Fact or Fiction?

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-02-01

    which is heavily dependent on commerce traversing the strait. At least a dozen LNG tankers pass through the Strait every day.12 Catherine Zara ...terrorism/news/article.php?articleid=236669, April 25, 2007. 13 Catherine Zara Raymond, “Maritime Terrorism in Southeast Asia: Potential Scenarios

  6. 77 FR 56664 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-13

    ... Centennial The Honorable Southeast Metro http:// August 3, 2012........ 080315 (12-08-0025P). Cathy Noon, Stormwater www.bakeraecom.com/ Mayor, City of Authority, 76 index.php/colorado/ Centennial, 13133 Inverness Drive arapahoe/. East Arapahoe East, Suite A, Road, Centennial, Centennial, CO CO 80112. 80112. Arapahoe...

  7. 78 FR 47330 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-05

    ...: Arapahoe City of The Honorable Southeast Metro http:// August 30, 2013 080315 Centennial (13- Cathy Noon, Stormwater www.bakeraecom.com/ 08-0083P). Mayor, City of Authority, 76 index.php/colorado/ Centennial, Inverness Drive arapahoe/. 13133 East East, Suite A, Arapahoe Road, Centennial, CO Centennial, CO 80112...

  8. CME leaving the Sun [Video

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    Animation of a CME leaving the Sun, slamming into our magnetosphere. Credit: NASA/GSFC/SOHO/ESA Sound: Juan Carlos Garcia To learn more go to the SOHO website: sohowww.nascom.nasa.gov/home.html To learn more about NASA's Sun Earth Day go here: sunearthday.nasa.gov/2010/index.php

  9. Civil-Military Relations in Post-Communist Countries

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2004-03-01

    info.top.bg/politics/partii.php, accessed February 20, 2004. 174 Evgenii Dainov and Vladimir Shopov , “The Democratic Process of Bulgaria”, in Ognyan......accessed February 24, 2004. 179 Evgenii Dainov and Vladimir Shopov , “The Democratic Process of Bulgaria”, 26. 180 Law for Consultative Council for

  10. 75 FR 10707 - MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE RELIEF SERVICES

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-09

    ...), available at ( http://www.mbaa.org/NewsandMedia/PressCenter/71112.htm ). In December 2008, Credit Suisse.../release.php?id=1821 ). \\50\\ See State Bar of California, Ethics Alert: Legal Services to Distressed Homeowners and Foreclosure Consultants on Loan Modifications 2, Ethics Hotliner (Feb. 2, 2009), available at...

  11. Facilitated IEP Meetings. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets: PHP-c90

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2014

    2014-01-01

    To help special education planning teams reach agreements, the Minnesota Department of Education, Compliance and Assistance, Alternative Dispute Resolution Services provide the option of facilitated IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings. This option is available for IEP, IIIP (Individual Interagency Intervention Plan), and IFSP…

  12. Designing Web-based GIS Application by CSF Method: A Case Study in Boven Digoel Papua

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Letsoin, Hendrykus Saritangdan; JSantoso, Albertus Joko; Suyoto

    2018-02-01

    Since Boven Digoel Regency was established in 2003, to this day its infrastructures are very limited, the region is still not developed, Human Resources (SDM) and Information and Communication Technology are still manual. The development of Geographic Information System was expected to contribute to ICT development in Papua, particularly Boven Digoel Regency, in displaying data of existing local potentials, e.g. tourism, plantation and forestry. Critical Success Factor Method was the right method in considering factors determining the success of the implementation of a strategy, in good information management and in providing data of local potentials of geographic information system for people in Boven Digoel Regency and the people of Indonesia in general to introduce Boven Digoel Regency, Papua. Framework Laravel with PHP programming language was expected to support Geographic Information System well to determine the distribution of local potentials in Boven Digoel Regency‥

  13. Photocatalysts Based on Cobalt-Chelating Conjugated Polymers for Hydrogen Evolution from Water

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

    Li, Lianwei; Hadt, Ryan G.; Yao, Shiyu

    Developing photocatalytic systems for water splitting to generate oxygen and hydrogen is one of the biggest chemical challenges in solar energy utilization. In this work, we report the first example of heterogeneous photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution based on in-chain cobalt-chelating conjugated polymers. Four conjugated polymers chelated with earth abundant cobalt ions were synthesized and found to evolve hydrogen photocatalytically from water. These polymers are designed to combine functions of the conjugated backbone as light-harvesting antenna and electron transfer conduit with the in-chain bipyridyl chelated transition metal centers as catalytic active sites. In addition, these polymers are soluble in organic solvents,more » enabling effective interactions with the substrates as well as detailed characterization. We also found a polymer-dependent optimal cobalt chelating concentration at which the highest photocatalytic hydrogen production (PHP) activity can be achieved.« less

  14. Nanoscale Bioengineering Solutions for Space Exploration the Nanopore Sequencer

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ioana, Cozmuta; Viktor, Stoic

    2005-01-01

    Characterization of biological systems at the molecular level and extraction of essential information for nano-engineering design to guide the nano-fabrication of solid-state sensors and molecular identification devices is a computational challenge. The alpha hemolysin protein ion channel is used as a model system for structural analysis of nucleic acids like DNA. Applied voltage draws a DNA strand and surrounding ionic solution through the biological nanopore. The subunits in the DNA strand block ion flow by differing amounts. Atomistic scale simulations are employed using NASA supercomputers to study DNA translocation. with the aim to enhance single DNA subunit identification. Compared to protein channels, solid-state nanopores offer a better temporal control of the translocation of DNA and the possibility to easily tune its chemistry to increase the signal resolution. Potential applications for NASA missions, besides real-time genome sequencing include astronaut health, life detection and decoding of various genomes. http://phenomrph.arc.nasa.gov/index.php

  15. Numerical study of the polarization effect of GPR systems on the detection of buried objects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sagnard, Florence

    2017-04-01

    This work is in line with the studies carried out in our department over the last few years on object detection in civil engineering structures and soils. In parallel to building of the second version of the Sense-City test site where several pipeline networks will be buried [1], we are developing numerical models using the FIT and the FDTD approaches to study more precisely the contribution of the polarization diversity in the detection of conductive and dielectric buried objects using the GPR technique. The simulations developed are based on a ultra-wide band SFCW GPR system that have been designed and evaluated in our laboratory. A parametric study is proposed to evaluate the influence of the antenna configurations and the antenna geometry when considering the polarization diversity in the detection and characterization of canonical objects. [1] http://www.sense-city.univ-paris-est.fr/index.php

  16. Headspace profiling of cocaine samples for intelligence purposes.

    PubMed

    Dujourdy, Laurence; Besacier, Fabrice

    2008-08-06

    A method for determination of residual solvents in illicit hydrochloride cocaine samples using static headspace-gas chromatography (HS-GC) associated with a storage computerized procedure is described for the profiling and comparison of seizures. The system involves a gas chromatographic separation of 18 occluded solvents followed by fully automatic data analysis and transfer to a PHP/MySQL database. First, a fractional factorial design was used to evaluate the main effects of some critical method parameters (salt choice, vial agitation intensity, oven temperature, pressurization and loop equilibration) on the results with a minimum of experiments. The method was then validated for tactical intelligence purposes (batch comparison) via several studies: selection of solvents and mathematical comparison tool, reproducibility and "cutting" influence studies. The decision threshold to determine the similarity of two samples was set and false positives and negatives evaluated. Finally, application of the method to distinguish geographical origins is discussed.

  17. RINGMesh: A programming library for developing mesh-based geomodeling applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pellerin, Jeanne; Botella, Arnaud; Bonneau, François; Mazuyer, Antoine; Chauvin, Benjamin; Lévy, Bruno; Caumon, Guillaume

    2017-07-01

    RINGMesh is a C++ open-source programming library for manipulating discretized geological models. It is designed to ease the development of applications and workflows that use discretized 3D models. It is neither a geomodeler, nor a meshing software. RINGMesh implements functionalities to read discretized surface-based or volumetric structural models and to check their validity. The models can be then exported in various file formats. RINGMesh provides data structures to represent geological structural models, either defined by their discretized boundary surfaces, and/or by discretized volumes. A programming interface allows to develop of new geomodeling methods, and to plug in external software. The goal of RINGMesh is to help researchers to focus on the implementation of their specific method rather than on tedious tasks common to many applications. The documented code is open-source and distributed under the modified BSD license. It is available at https://www.ring-team.org/index.php/software/ringmesh.

  18. Seeking unique and common biological themes in multiple gene lists or datasets: pathway pattern extraction pipeline for pathway-level comparative analysis.

    PubMed

    Yi, Ming; Mudunuri, Uma; Che, Anney; Stephens, Robert M

    2009-06-29

    One of the challenges in the analysis of microarray data is to integrate and compare the selected (e.g., differential) gene lists from multiple experiments for common or unique underlying biological themes. A common way to approach this problem is to extract common genes from these gene lists and then subject these genes to enrichment analysis to reveal the underlying biology. However, the capacity of this approach is largely restricted by the limited number of common genes shared by datasets from multiple experiments, which could be caused by the complexity of the biological system itself. We now introduce a new Pathway Pattern Extraction Pipeline (PPEP), which extends the existing WPS application by providing a new pathway-level comparative analysis scheme. To facilitate comparing and correlating results from different studies and sources, PPEP contains new interfaces that allow evaluation of the pathway-level enrichment patterns across multiple gene lists. As an exploratory tool, this analysis pipeline may help reveal the underlying biological themes at both the pathway and gene levels. The analysis scheme provided by PPEP begins with multiple gene lists, which may be derived from different studies in terms of the biological contexts, applied technologies, or methodologies. These lists are then subjected to pathway-level comparative analysis for extraction of pathway-level patterns. This analysis pipeline helps to explore the commonality or uniqueness of these lists at the level of pathways or biological processes from different but relevant biological systems using a combination of statistical enrichment measurements, pathway-level pattern extraction, and graphical display of the relationships of genes and their associated pathways as Gene-Term Association Networks (GTANs) within the WPS platform. As a proof of concept, we have used the new method to analyze many datasets from our collaborators as well as some public microarray datasets. This tool provides a new pathway-level analysis scheme for integrative and comparative analysis of data derived from different but relevant systems. The tool is freely available as a Pathway Pattern Extraction Pipeline implemented in our existing software package WPS, which can be obtained at http://www.abcc.ncifcrf.gov/wps/wps_index.php.

  19. Depth Derivation from the Worldview-2 Satellite Using Hyperspectral Imagery

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-03-01

    6 C. MULTISPECTRAL IMAGERY FROM QUICKBIRD ..............................7 D . HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGERY FROM AVIRIS...27 D . TRANSECTS .................................................................................................29 1. Transect 1...520-600nm), red (630-690nm) and near-IR (760-900nm). Figure 4. Quickbird Satellite (from: http://www.digitalglobe.com/index.php/85/QuickBird) D

  20. Leadership in a Culture of Fitness in the Chilean Army

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-03-22

    www.conacedrogas.cl/inicio/noticias 2.php?id=1413 January 2005. (accessed December 18, 2011). 30 Universia, “Los peligros del cigarro en la...juventud”, http://noticias.universia.cl/ciencia- nn-tt/noticia/2006/02/07/334348/ peligros -cigarro-juventud.html (accessed December 03, 2011). 31 Ibid. 32

  1. Landsat Science Team meeting—first Landsat 8 evaluations

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Loveland, Thomas R.; Wulder, Michael A.; Irons, James R.

    2014-01-01

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)-NASA Landsat Science Team (LST) met at the USGS’ Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center near Sioux Falls, SD, from October 29-31, 2013. All meeting presentations can be downloaded from landsat.usgs.gov/science_LST_October_29_31_2013.php.

  2. Divorce and Special Education in Minnesota. PHP-c104

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    When parents divorce, they sometimes have questions about which parent has rights in special education. The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Minnesota state special education laws and regulations clearly describe parental rights and the school district's duty to meet them. Most rights are unchanged by divorce. The…

  3. High Resolution Multispectral and Hyperspectral Data Fusion for Advanced Geospatial Information Products

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-09-30

    Barbara, Newport, and San Diego Harbor. The MSI instrumentation was provided under a cooperative agreement with the Applanix Systems Integration Group...part of the Applanix Position and Orientation System (POS AV; http://www.applanix.com/products/posav_index.php), which was being evaluated as a

  4. High Resolution Multispectral and Hyperspectral Data Fusion for Advanced Geospatial Information Products

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-03-01

    instrumentation was provided under a cooperative agreement with the Applanix Systems Integration Group (ASIG), a subsidiary of the Trimble Corporation. This MSI...system (Digital Sensor System; http://www.applanix.com/products/dss index.php) was provided as part of the Applanix Position and Orientation System (POS

  5. Yellow sticky, PHP software for an electronic brainstorming experiment.

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

    Dornburg, Courtney C.; Stevens, Susan Marie; Davidson, George S.

    A web-based brainstorm was conducted in the summer of 2007 within the Sandia Restricted Network. This brainstorming experiment was modeled around the 'yellow sticky' brainstorms that are used in many face-to-face meetings at Sandia National Laboratories. This document discusses the implementation and makes suggestions for future implementations.

  6. 40 CFR 82.4 - Prohibitions for class I controlled substances.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... not Party to the 1987 Montreal Protocol unless that foreign state is complying with the 1987 Montreal Protocol (For ratification status, see: http://ozone.unep.org/new_site/en/treaty_ratification_status.php... Montreal Protocol, unless that foreign state is complying with the 1987 Montreal Protocol (For ratification...

  7. Intelligence Reform in Colombia: Transparency and Effectiveness against Internal Threats

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-05-01

    Humanos Y Derecho Internacional Humano 2004, page 228. Statistics for 2006 may be viewed at: http://www.derechoshumanos.gov.co/index.php?newsecc...used here are projections based on official government statistics through May of 2006. Statistics for 2003 are contained in Informe Annual de Derechos

  8. 78 FR 20937 - Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-08

    ..., County Parkway, Brighton, CO Suite C5000A, 80601. Brighton, CO 80601. Weld Unincorporated The Honorable Sean Weld County Public http:// May 3, 2013 080266 areas of Weld Conway, Chairman, Works Department, www.bakeraecom.com/ County, (12-08- Weld County Board 1111 H Street, index.php/colorado/ 0745P). of...

  9. Building a Snow Data Management System using Open Source Software (and IDL)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goodale, C. E.; Mattmann, C. A.; Ramirez, P.; Hart, A. F.; Painter, T.; Zimdars, P. A.; Bryant, A.; Brodzik, M.; Skiles, M.; Seidel, F. C.; Rittger, K. E.

    2012-12-01

    At NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory free and open source software is used everyday to support a wide range of projects, from planetary to climate to research and development. In this abstract I will discuss the key role that open source software has played in building a robust science data processing pipeline for snow hydrology research, and how the system is also able to leverage programs written in IDL, making JPL's Snow Data System a hybrid of open source and proprietary software. Main Points: - The Design of the Snow Data System (illustrate how the collection of sub-systems are combined to create a complete data processing pipeline) - Discuss the Challenges of moving from a single algorithm on a laptop, to running 100's of parallel algorithms on a cluster of servers (lesson's learned) - Code changes - Software license related challenges - Storage Requirements - System Evolution (from data archiving, to data processing, to data on a map, to near-real-time products and maps) - Road map for the next 6 months (including how easily we re-used the snowDS code base to support the Airborne Snow Observatory Mission) Software in Use and their Software Licenses: IDL - Used for pre and post processing of data. Licensed under a proprietary software license held by Excelis. Apache OODT - Used for data management and workflow processing. Licensed under the Apache License Version 2. GDAL - Geospatial Data processing library used for data re-projection currently. Licensed under the X/MIT license. GeoServer - WMS Server. Licensed under the General Public License Version 2.0 Leaflet.js - Javascript web mapping library. Licensed under the Berkeley Software Distribution License. Python - Glue code and miscellaneous data processing support. Licensed under the Python Software Foundation License. Perl - Script wrapper for running the SCAG algorithm. Licensed under the General Public License Version 3. PHP - Front-end web application programming. Licensed under the PHP License Version 3.01

  10. A resource for benchmarking the usefulness of protein structure models.

    PubMed

    Carbajo, Daniel; Tramontano, Anna

    2012-08-02

    Increasingly, biologists and biochemists use computational tools to design experiments to probe the function of proteins and/or to engineer them for a variety of different purposes. The most effective strategies rely on the knowledge of the three-dimensional structure of the protein of interest. However it is often the case that an experimental structure is not available and that models of different quality are used instead. On the other hand, the relationship between the quality of a model and its appropriate use is not easy to derive in general, and so far it has been analyzed in detail only for specific application. This paper describes a database and related software tools that allow testing of a given structure based method on models of a protein representing different levels of accuracy. The comparison of the results of a computational experiment on the experimental structure and on a set of its decoy models will allow developers and users to assess which is the specific threshold of accuracy required to perform the task effectively. The ModelDB server automatically builds decoy models of different accuracy for a given protein of known structure and provides a set of useful tools for their analysis. Pre-computed data for a non-redundant set of deposited protein structures are available for analysis and download in the ModelDB database. IMPLEMENTATION, AVAILABILITY AND REQUIREMENTS: Project name: A resource for benchmarking the usefulness of protein structure models. Project home page: http://bl210.caspur.it/MODEL-DB/MODEL-DB_web/MODindex.php.Operating system(s): Platform independent. Programming language: Perl-BioPerl (program); mySQL, Perl DBI and DBD modules (database); php, JavaScript, Jmol scripting (web server). Other requirements: Java Runtime Environment v1.4 or later, Perl, BioPerl, CPAN modules, HHsearch, Modeller, LGA, NCBI Blast package, DSSP, Speedfill (Surfnet) and PSAIA. License: Free. Any restrictions to use by non-academics: No.

  11. IT Resources - Betty Petersen Memorial Library

    Science.gov Websites

    Available NOAA-wide. Note: This link takes you to a nonfederal website. Guide for usage Apress.com Free eBooks Free eBooks available through Apress publishers. Topics include PHP, Perl, and programming VB .Net . Note: This link takes you to a nonfederal website. Online Programming Books Free programming books

  12. 75 FR 78212 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Center for Economic Studies Research Proposal...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-12-15

    ... Economic Studies Research Proposal Process and Project Management AGENCY: U.S. Census Bureau, Commerce... Project Management System by visiting the CES Web site ( http://www.ces.census.gov/index/php ) and click...) and instructions should be directed to Dr. Brian P. Holly, Project Review Coordinator, Center for...

  13. Drupal Done Right

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Coombs, Karen

    2009-01-01

    Drupal is a PHP-and MySQL-based system for managing web sites, developed in 2000 and released in 2001 under the open GNU General Public License (GPL). It is modular, extensible, and scalable. In recent years, Drupal has gained a huge following within libraries as a content management system (CMS). Probably the best-known extension of Drupal in the…

  14. Development of Prime Cyber-Infrastructure for Combustion

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-07-14

    48 6 Technologies used 6.1 PrIMe Portal The PrIMe portal is executed using the PHP language with the help of CMF Drupal -5. The standard...modules of Drupal core set are developed by third parties and obtained from the repository drupal.org. Part of the modules was modified specifically for

  15. HIP collapse. Don't blame doctors & patients.

    PubMed

    Sinagra, J

    1999-11-01

    While HIP's eventual insolvency was the culmination of several years of financial deterioration, certain events caused this to accelerate. This event is a long overdue impetus for change. The state has learned some hard lessons from the HIP/PHP debacle. The authors proposes a package of bills that will avoid a repeat of this issue.

  16. Teaching Undergraduate Software Engineering Using Open Source Development Tools

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-01-01

    ware. Some example appliances are: a LAMP stack, Redmine, MySQL database, Moodle, Tom- cat on Apache, and Bugzilla. Some of the important features...Ada, C, C++, PHP , Py- thon, etc., and also supports a wide range of SDKs such as Google’s Android SDK and the Google Web Toolkit SDK. Additionally

  17. Divorce and Special Education. PHP-c103

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    Every year the parents of a million American children are newly divorced. While divorce is difficult for all parties involved, children are often the most affected. If the children have disabilities and are involved with the special education system, the situation can be even more complex. The information in this document may help parents think…

  18. Validating a Psychology as a Helping Profession Scale

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gervasio, Amy Herstein; Wendorf, Craig A.; Yoder, Natalie F.

    2010-01-01

    We developed an 11-item Psychology as a Helping Profession (PHP) scale that measured aspects of personal growth/helping skills and applied helping. The scale was only weakly correlated with Friedrich's (1996) Psychology as Science (PAS) scale, implying that the 2 scales measure different conceptions of the nature of psychology. Psychology majors…

  19. The SEPnet Coil Demonstrates Electricity Generation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harvey, Clare; Hare, Jonathan

    2009-01-01

    The South East Physics Network (SEPnet) (www.sepnet.ac.uk/gcse.php) is exploring various ways to enhance physics learning and A-level uptake, including a series of interactive GCSE revision events. The first event, which includes talks and various physics exhibits by leading teachers and educators, is on energy and the exhibition--called "Who…

  20. 77 FR 11195 - Announcement of Competition Under the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2011: Badges for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-02-24

    ....dmlcompetition.net/Competition/4/badges-projects.php?id=2667 . VA does not anticipate that it will issue badges... lean Six Sigma. Law Enforcement, which may include specialties such as criminal investigation and... alternative fuels. Information Technology, including all phases of software development and IT project...

  1. Will Technological Convergence Reverse Globalization (Strategic Forum, Number 297)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-07-01

    for counterfeiting high-value products they are contracted to produce. One technique is for the Chinese contractor to build a duplicate factory...www.meatinstitute.org/index. php? ht =d/sp/i/47465/pid/47465>. 66 “Soybean Meal Exports by Country in 1000 MT,” IndexMundi.com, available at <www.indexmundi.com

  2. 75 FR 10029 - Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-04

    ... together with a request for comments on two data sets used to determine the eligible industries under the....house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1772:the-minority-business-development-agency... contracting officer must have a reasonable expectation that two or more WOSBs will submit offers for the...

  3. Developing confidence in adverse outcome pathway-based toxicity predictions effects of the fungicide imazalil on fathead minnow reproduction

    EPA Science Inventory

    An adverse outcome pathway (AOP) description linking inhibition of aromatase (cytochrome P450 [cyp] 19) to reproductive dysfunction was reviewed for scientific and technical quality and endorsed by the OECD (https://aopwiki.org/wiki/index.php/Aop:25). An intended application of t...

  4. Pre-fermentative cold maceration, saignée, and various thermal treatments as options for modulating volatile aroma and phenol profiles of red wine.

    PubMed

    Lukić, Igor; Budić-Leto, Irena; Bubola, Marijan; Damijanić, Kristijan; Staver, Mario

    2017-06-01

    The effects of six maceration treatments on volatile aroma and phenol composition of Teran red wine were studied: standard maceration (control C), cold pre-fermentation maceration (CPM), saignée (S), pre-fermentation heating with extended maceration (PHT) or juice fermentation (PHP), and post-fermentation heating (POH). PHP wine contained the highest amounts of esters, fatty acids and anthocyanins, and the lowest content of other phenols. Alternative treatments decreased higher alcohols in relation to control C. CPM treatment lowered the extraction of seed tannins, exhibited the highest acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate and C 6 -compounds levels, and had increased ester levels in relation to control C. POH wine contained the highest concentration of total phenols, flavonoids, monomeric, oligomeric and polymeric flavanols, and color intensity and hue. S and PHT wines contained lower amount of total phenols, but higher than in C and CPM wines. The calculated Odor Activity Values were used to establish significant differences between the treatments. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Hyperparathyroidism during Pregnancy- A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

    PubMed Central

    Sharma, Richa; Bhanupriya; Guleria, Kiran; Suneja, Amita

    2017-01-01

    Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare event in pregnancy; Maternal complications in PHP patients can be as high as 67%. It can be overlooked easily because of many similar complaints shared by hyperparathyroidism and pregnancy such as nausea and vomiting, gastritis, bone aches, easy fatigability. Hypercalcemic crisis can develop resulting in coma and death. Neonatal effects are tetany and death in about 80% of cases. We report a case, of an antenatal woman at 30 weeks gestation with complains of painful swelling in left lower jaw and below right knee, pain over right hip joint and frequent episodes of gastritis. She was finally diagnosed to have primary hyperparathyroidism and brown tumour due to parathyroid adenoma. The baby was kept in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for three weeks, in view of prematurity with respiratory distress and later developed sepsis with DIC. The patient’s signs and symptoms regressed after parathyroid surgery and the baby was healthy at the time of discharge. This case highlights the progressive deterioration of the patient because of lack of awareness of this disease process and its impact on maternal and foetal morbidity. PMID:29207788

  6. Identification of a novel mutation in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Ye Seung; Kim, Hui Kwon; Kim, Hye Rim; Lee, Jong Yoon; Choi, Joong Wan; Bae, Eun Ju; Oh, Phil Soo; Park, Won Il; Ki, Chang Seok

    2014-01-01

    Pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia (PHP Ia) is a disorder characterized by multiform hormonal resistance including parathyroid hormone (PTH) resistance and Albright hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO). It is caused by heterozygous inactivating mutations within the Gs alpha-encoding GNAS exons. A 9-year-old boy presented with clinical and laboratory abnormalities including hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, PTH resistance, multihormone resistance and AHO (round face, short stature, obesity, brachydactyly and osteoma cutis) which were typical of PHP Ia. He had a history of repeated convulsive episodes that started from the age of 2 months. A cranial computed tomography scan showed bilateral calcifications in the basal ganglia and his intelligence quotient testing indicated mild mental retardation. Family history revealed that the patient's maternal relatives, including his grandmother and 2 of his mother's siblings, had features suggestive of AHO. Sequencing of the GNAS gene of the patient identified a heterozygous nonsense mutation within exon 11 (c.637 C>T). The C>T transversion results in an amino acid substitution from Gln to stop codon at codon 213 (p.Gln213*). To our knowledge, this is a novel mutation in GNAS. PMID:25045367

  7. Effects of feather wear and temperature on prediction of food intake and residual food consumption.

    PubMed

    Herremans, M; Decuypere, E; Siau, O

    1989-03-01

    Heat production, which accounts for 0.6 of gross energy intake, is insufficiently represented in predictions of food intake. Especially when heat production is elevated (for example by lower temperature or poor feathering) the classical predictions based on body weight, body-weight change and egg mass are inadequate. Heat production was reliably estimated as [35.5-environmental temperature (degree C)] x [Defeathering (=%IBPW) + 21]. Including this term (PHP: predicted heat production) in equations predicting food intake significantly increased accuracy of prediction, especially under suboptimal conditions. Within the range of body weights tested (from 1.6 kg in brown layers to 2.8 kg in dwarf broiler breeders), body weight as an independent variable contributed little to the prediction of food intake; especially within strains its effect was better included in the intercept. Significantly reduced absolute values of residual food consumption were obtained over a wide range of conditions by using predictions of food intake based on body-weight change, egg mass, predicted heat production (PHP) and an intercept, instead of body weight, body-weight change, egg mass and an intercept.

  8. Pseudohypoparathyroidism with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Turner syndrome: a case report.

    PubMed

    Zeng, Wen-Heng; Xu, Jiao-Jun; Jia, Min-Yue; Ren, Yue-Zhong

    2014-10-01

    To report the case of an individual with PHP, Turner syndrome and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. A 16-year-old girl was referred to our hospital with chief complaint of short stature. She presented with round chubby facies, short neck, obesity and short stature. Radiography indicated short metatarsals and metacarpals, which mainly affected the second, third and fourth digits. Biochemistry revealed hyperphosphatemia, increased serum concentrations of parathyroid hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone, elevated levels of follicular-stimulating hormone and prolactin, and increased thyroid peroxidase antibody and thyroglobulin antibody. Radiographic examination revealed delayed bone age and pelvic ultrasonography demonstrated an immature uterus. Karyotype analysis showed 46,X,i(Xq10), while molecular analysis revealed a same sense mutation in exon 5 of GNAS (ATC → ATT, Ile).The specific diagnosis was made of Turner syndrome in the presence of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and PHP. She was treated with calcium supplementation, calcitriol and thyroxine. This is the first case report to describe a combination of Turner syndrome with these other clinical entities, and their co-existence should be considered and further investigated.

  9. Retrograde Semaphorin-Plexin Signaling Drives Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity

    PubMed Central

    Orr, Brian O.; Fetter, Richard D.; Davis, Graeme W.

    2017-01-01

    Homeostatic signaling systems ensure stable, yet flexible neural activity and animal behavior1–4. Defining the underlying molecular mechanisms of neuronal homeostatic signaling will be essential in order to establish clear connections to the causes and progression of neurological disease. Presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (PHP) is a conserved form of neuronal homeostatic signaling, observed in organisms ranging from Drosophila to human1,5. Here, we demonstrate that Semaphorin2b (Sema2b) is target-derived signal that acts upon presynaptic PlexinB (PlexB) receptors to mediate the retrograde, homeostatic control of presynaptic neurotransmitter release at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. Sema2b-PlexB signaling regulates the expression of PHP via the cytoplasmic protein Mical and the oxoreductase-dependent control of presynaptic actin6,7. During neural development, Semaphorin-Plexin signaling instructs axon guidance and neuronal morphogenesis8–10. Yet, Semaphorins and Plexins are also expressed in the adult brain11–16. Here we demonstrate that Semaphorin-Plexin signaling controls presynaptic neurotransmitter release. We propose that Sema2b-PlexB signaling is an essential platform for the stabilization of synaptic transmission throughout life. PMID:28953869

  10. A postsynaptic PI3K-cII dependent signaling controller for presynaptic homeostatic plasticity

    PubMed Central

    Hauswirth, Anna G; Ford, Kevin J; Wang, Tingting; Fetter, Richard D; Tong, Amy

    2018-01-01

    Presynaptic homeostatic plasticity stabilizes information transfer at synaptic connections in organisms ranging from insect to human. By analogy with principles of engineering and control theory, the molecular implementation of PHP is thought to require postsynaptic signaling modules that encode homeostatic sensors, a set point, and a controller that regulates transsynaptic negative feedback. The molecular basis for these postsynaptic, homeostatic signaling elements remains unknown. Here, an electrophysiology-based screen of the Drosophila kinome and phosphatome defines a postsynaptic signaling platform that includes a required function for PI3K-cII, PI3K-cIII and the small GTPase Rab11 during the rapid and sustained expression of PHP. We present evidence that PI3K-cII localizes to Golgi-derived, clathrin-positive vesicles and is necessary to generate an endosomal pool of PI(3)P that recruits Rab11 to recycling endosomal membranes. A morphologically distinct subdivision of this platform concentrates postsynaptically where we propose it functions as a homeostatic controller for retrograde, trans-synaptic signaling. PMID:29303480

  11. Pre_GI: a global map of ontological links between horizontally transferred genomic islands in bacterial and archaeal genomes

    PubMed Central

    Pierneef, Rian; Cronje, Louis; Bezuidt, Oliver; Reva, Oleg N.

    2015-01-01

    Abstract The Predicted Genomic Islands database (Pre_GI) is a comprehensive repository of prokaryotic genomic islands (islands, GIs) freely accessible at http://pregi.bi.up.ac.za/index.php . Pre_GI, Version 2015, catalogues 26 744 islands identified in 2407 bacterial/archaeal chromosomes and plasmids. It provides an easy-to-use interface which allows users the ability to query against the database with a variety of fields, parameters and associations. Pre_GI is constructed to be a web-resource for the analysis of ontological roads between islands and cartographic analysis of the global fluxes of mobile genetic elements through bacterial and archaeal taxonomic borders. Comparison of newly identified islands against Pre_GI presents an alternative avenue to identify their ontology, origin and relative time of acquisition. Pre_GI aims to aid research on horizontal transfer events and materials through providing data and tools for holistic investigation of migration of genes through ecological niches and taxonomic boundaries. Database URL: http://pregi.bi.up.ac.za/index.php , Version 2015 PMID:26200753

  12. Robotic surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism.

    PubMed

    Karagkounis, Georgios; Uzun, Duygu Derya; Mason, David P; Murthy, Sudish C; Berber, Eren

    2014-09-01

    Open cervical parathyroidectomy is the standard of care for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP). However, in patients with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scar formation, the cosmetic result may sometimes be unsatisfactory. Furthermore, in the presence of mediastinal glands, a more morbid approach is sometimes necessary, involving a sternal split or thoracotomy. Robotic parathyroidectomy, either transaxillary or transthoracic, could be an alternative in both settings. Between 2008 and 2013, 14 patients with PHP and a well-localized single adenoma underwent robotic transaxillary cervical (TAC) (n = 8) or transthoracic mediastinal (TTM) (n = 6) parathyroidectomy at an academic tertiary medical center and their outcomes were analyzed. All 14 operations were completed successfully as planned. For TAC and TTM parathyroidectomies, mean operative time was 184 and 168 min, respectively. With the exception of one TTM patient, intraoperative PTH determination indicated a >50 % drop in all patients 10 min after excision and no patients presented with recurrent disease on follow-up. Average length of hospital stay was 1 day after TAC parathyroidectomy and 2.2 days after TTM. On a visual analog pain scale (0-10), average pain scores after TAC were 6/10 on postoperative day 1 and 1/10 on day 14, compared to 7.7/10 and 1.5/10, respectively, after TTM. Complications included development of seroma in 1 patient in the TAC group and pericardial and pleural effusion in 1 patient in the TTM cohort. This initial study shows that robotic TAC and TTM parathyroidectomy are feasible in selected PHP patients with preoperatively well-localized disease. Although the TAC approach offers a potential cosmetic benefit in patients with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scar formation, a more generalized use cannot be recommended based on current evidence. The robotic TTM approach presents a minimally invasive alternative to resections previously performed through thoracotomy and sternotomy.

  13. De Novo STX16 Deletions: An Infrequent Cause of Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type Ib that Should Be Excluded in Sporadic Cases

    PubMed Central

    Turan, Serap; Ignatius, Jaakko; Moilanen, Jukka S.; Kuismin, Outi; Stewart, Helen; Mann, Nicholas P.; Linglart, Agnès; Bastepe, Murat

    2012-01-01

    Context: Maternally inherited 3-kb STX16 deletions cause autosomal dominant pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib (PHP-Ib) characterized by PTH resistance with loss of methylation restricted to the GNAS exon A/B. Objective: The objective of the study was to search for the 3-kb STX16 deletion and to establish haplotypes for the GNAS region for two PHP-Ib patients and their families. Setting: The study was conducted at a research laboratory and tertiary care hospitals. Patients: The index cases presented at the ages 8 and 9.5 yr, respectively, with hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated PTH. Interventions: There were no interventions. Results: DNA analyses of the index cases revealed an isolated loss of the GNAS exon A/B methylation and the 3-kb STX16 deletion. In the first family, the patient's healthy mother and sister showed no genetic or epigenetic abnormality, yet microsatellite analysis of the GNAS region indicated that both siblings share the same maternal allele, with the exception of an allelic loss for marker 261P9-CA1 (located within STX16), leading to the conclusion that a de novo mutation had occurred on the maternal allele. In the second family, three siblings of the index case are also affected, and an analysis of their DNA revealed the 3-kb STX16 deletion, which was also found in the healthy mother and a maternal uncle. Analysis of the siblings of the deceased maternal grandfather and some of their descendants excluded the 3-kb STX16 deletion, but haplotype analysis of the GNAS region suggested that he had acquired the mutation de novo. Conclusions: De novo 3-kb STX16 deletions, reported only once previously, are infrequent but should be excluded in all cases of PHP-Ib, even when the family history is negative for an inherited form of this disorder. PMID:23087324

  14. Modifiers: Increasing Richness and Nuance of Design Pattern Languages

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kolfschoten, Gwendolyn L.; Briggs, Robert O.; Lukosch, Stephan

    One of the challenges when establishing and maintaining a pattern language is to balance richness with simplicity. On the one hand, designers need a variety of useful design patterns to increase the speed of their design efforts and to reduce design risk. On the other hand, the greater the variety of design patterns in a language, the higher the cognitive load to remember and select among them. One solution to this problem is the concept of a modifier design pattern, a design pattern for pattern languages. A modifier pattern is a named, documented variation that can be applied to some set of other design patterns. They create similar, useful changes and refinements to the solutions derived from any pattern to which they are applied. The modifier concept, described in this paper emerged in a relatively new design pattern language for collaborative work practices in which the design patterns are called thinkLets. When analyzing the thinkLet pattern language, we found that many of the patterns we knew were variations and refinements of other patterns. However, we also found patterns in these variations; we found variations that could be applied to different patterns, with similar effects. We document these variations as modifiers. In this paper, we introduce the concept of modifier design patterns and illustrate the use of modifiers with two case studies.

  15. The CEBAF Element Database

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

    Theodore Larrieu, Christopher Slominski, Michele Joyce

    2011-03-01

    With the inauguration of the CEBAF Element Database (CED) in Fall 2010, Jefferson Lab computer scientists have taken a step toward the eventual goal of a model-driven accelerator. Once fully populated, the database will be the primary repository of information used for everything from generating lattice decks to booting control computers to building controls screens. A requirement influencing the CED design is that it provide access to not only present, but also future and past configurations of the accelerator. To accomplish this, an introspective database schema was designed that allows new elements, types, and properties to be defined on-the-fly withmore » no changes to table structure. Used in conjunction with Oracle Workspace Manager, it allows users to query data from any time in the database history with the same tools used to query the present configuration. Users can also check-out workspaces to use as staging areas for upcoming machine configurations. All Access to the CED is through a well-documented Application Programming Interface (API) that is translated automatically from original C++ source code into native libraries for scripting languages such as perl, php, and TCL making access to the CED easy and ubiquitous.« less

  16. A Dynamic Human Health Risk Assessment System

    PubMed Central

    Prasad, Umesh; Singh, Gurmit; Pant, A. B.

    2012-01-01

    An online human health risk assessment system (OHHRAS) has been designed and developed in the form of a prototype database-driven system and made available for the population of India through a website – www.healthriskindia.in. OHHRAS provide the three utilities, that is, health survey, health status, and bio-calculators. The first utility health survey is functional on the basis of database being developed dynamically and gives the desired output to the user on the basis of input criteria entered into the system; the second utility health status is providing the output on the basis of dynamic questionnaire and ticked (selected) answers and generates the health status reports based on multiple matches set as per advise of medical experts and the third utility bio-calculators are very useful for the scientists/researchers as online statistical analysis tool that gives more accuracy and save the time of user. The whole system and database-driven website has been designed and developed by using the software (mainly are PHP, My-SQL, Deamweaver, C++ etc.) and made available publically through a database-driven website (www.healthriskindia.in), which are very useful for researchers, academia, students, and general masses of all sectors. PMID:22778520

  17. [Establishment of a comprehensive database for laryngeal cancer related genes and the miRNAs].

    PubMed

    Li, Mengjiao; E, Qimin; Liu, Jialin; Huang, Tingting; Liang, Chuanyu

    2015-09-01

    By collecting and analyzing the laryngeal cancer related genes and the miRNAs, to build a comprehensive laryngeal cancer-related gene database, which differs from the current biological information database with complex and clumsy structure and focuses on the theme of gene and miRNA, and it could make the research and teaching more convenient and efficient. Based on the B/S architecture, using Apache as a Web server, MySQL as coding language of database design and PHP as coding language of web design, a comprehensive database for laryngeal cancer-related genes was established, providing with the gene tables, protein tables, miRNA tables and clinical information tables of the patients with laryngeal cancer. The established database containsed 207 laryngeal cancer related genes, 243 proteins, 26 miRNAs, and their particular information such as mutations, methylations, diversified expressions, and the empirical references of laryngeal cancer relevant molecules. The database could be accessed and operated via the Internet, by which browsing and retrieval of the information were performed. The database were maintained and updated regularly. The database for laryngeal cancer related genes is resource-integrated and user-friendly, providing a genetic information query tool for the study of laryngeal cancer.

  18. GLobal Integrated Design Environment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kunkel, Matthew; McGuire, Melissa; Smith, David A.; Gefert, Leon P.

    2011-01-01

    The GLobal Integrated Design Environment (GLIDE) is a collaborative engineering application built to resolve the design session issues of real-time passing of data between multiple discipline experts in a collaborative environment. Utilizing Web protocols and multiple programming languages, GLIDE allows engineers to use the applications to which they are accustomed in this case, Excel to send and receive datasets via the Internet to a database-driven Web server. Traditionally, a collaborative design session consists of one or more engineers representing each discipline meeting together in a single location. The discipline leads exchange parameters and iterate through their respective processes to converge on an acceptable dataset. In cases in which the engineers are unable to meet, their parameters are passed via e-mail, telephone, facsimile, or even postal mail. The result of this slow process of data exchange would elongate a design session to weeks or even months. While the iterative process remains in place, software can now exchange parameters securely and efficiently, while at the same time allowing for much more information about a design session to be made available. GLIDE is written in a compilation of several programming languages, including REALbasic, PHP, and Microsoft Visual Basic. GLIDE client installers are available to download for both Microsoft Windows and Macintosh systems. The GLIDE client software is compatible with Microsoft Excel 2000 or later on Windows systems, and with Microsoft Excel X or later on Macintosh systems. GLIDE follows the Client-Server paradigm, transferring encrypted and compressed data via standard Web protocols. Currently, the engineers use Excel as a front end to the GLIDE Client, as many of their custom tools run in Excel.

  19. Technology Can Help Young Children Succeed. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets: PHP-c70

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2014

    2014-01-01

    Parents of young children with disabilities are discovering that carefully selected computer software and mobile apps can provide many benefits such as improved self-esteem, a longer attention span, and inclusion among family and other children that help their children succeed at home and in school. PACER's Simon Technology Center (STC) can help…

  20. Parent Keys to Success in the Parent-School Partnership. Parent Leadership. PHP-c96

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    When individuals or groups join together to work toward a common goal, a partnership is formed. Successfully reaching the goal requires mutual cooperation and a sharing of responsibilities. While carried out in different ways, the principles used to satisfy personal and business partnerships are much the same. Parents are the child's first and…

  1. Breakthroughs In Low-profile Leaky-Wave HPM Antennas

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-06-18

    this approach to help us finally to include, and manage quantitatively, this essential piece of the theoretical puzzle as we continue to revise and...appreciate ONR’s continuing support for this R&D. 10 http://www.uttyler.edu/ math /faculty...dkoslover.php & https://www.uttyler.edu/ math /curriculavitae/dkoslover.pdf 11 These include Variational Methods, Integral Equation Method, Equivalent

  2. Smoot Cosmology Group

    Science.gov Websites

    passes in advance and will email them to you. The Smoot Group is located in building 50, 5th floor, Room 5005 How to use Smoot Group Computers and Network http://www-astro.lbl.gov/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Procedures for New Students (and Visitors) working in the group Procedures for visiting scholars and

  3. Alaska Kids' Corner, State of Alaska

    Science.gov Websites

    a research site. The Official City & Borough of Juneau Website Visit http://www.juneau.com/ to actual cancelled check for the purchase! http://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=true&doc=41 Sport Dog mushing is the state sport. It was once a primary form of transportation in many areas of Alaska

  4. SUBMIT YOUR IMAGES TO NASA's "LET IT SNOW" PHOTO CONTEST!

    NASA Image and Video Library

    2017-12-08

    NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission wants to see your best photos of winter weather! You can submit your images to the contest here: www.flickr.com/groups/gpm-extreme-weather/ To read more about this image and or to see the high res file go to: earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=80082

  5. Parent Partnerships Project for Children's Mental Health Training for Professionals. PHP-c87

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    In the fall of 2003, PACER Center's Parent Partnership Project for Children's Mental Health conducted a survey to better understand what parents and families need from the children?s mental health system in Minnesota. The research team developed a survey questionnaire, a telephone interview, and a focus group session directed at learning what was…

  6. Questions for Parents to Ask about School Adaptations. PHP-c91

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    A child with a disability who has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Accommodation Plan may need extra help and support to participate in school. It takes thoughtful planning to choose adaptations, based on a child's disability, to help the child learn or have access to learning. Appropriate accommodations vary with…

  7. Telling Classmates about Your Child's Disability May Foster Acceptance. PHP-c101

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    Parents often become experts on their child's disability. Through their own learning process, many see the value of teaching their child's classmates about the affect of the disability at school. Parents and professionals find that if classmates understand a child's disability, they may become allies in helping the child. The children may also be…

  8. Effects of chlorophyll-derived efflux pump inhibitor pheophorbide a and pyropheophorbide a on growth and macrolide antibiotic resistance of indicator and anaerobic swine manure bacteria

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Natural plant compounds, such as the chlorophyll a catabolites pheophorbide a (php) and pyropheophorbide a (pyp), are potentially active in the gastrointestinal tracts and wastes of livestock as antimicrobial resistance-modifying agents through inhibition of bacterial efflux pumps. To investigate w...

  9. Faculty/Student Surveys Using Open Source Software

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kaceli, Sali

    2004-01-01

    This session will highlight an easy survey package which lets non-technical users create surveys, administer surveys, gather results, and view statistics. This is an open source application all managed online via a web browser. By using phpESP, the faculty is given the freedom of creating various surveys at their convenience and link them to their…

  10. Know Your School District: Tips for Parents. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c112

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2006

    2006-01-01

    Becoming familiar with the school district will help parents become active and involved partners in their child's education. Research has demonstrated that family involvement in children's education can boost their academic success. Knowing about the following areas, which are discussed in this information sheet, can help parental involvement at…

  11. What If Your Child "IS" the Bully? PHP-c109

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kelly, Marcia

    2005-01-01

    The word "bullying" often conjures up an image of a schoolyard scene, with a big, intimidating student towering over a small, cowering child. That is just one face of bullying--and of children who bully. They are significantly more likely than others to lead lives marked by school failure, depression, violence, crime, and other problems, according…

  12. Public Health Planning for Vulnerable Populations and Pandemic Influenza

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-12-01

    Table 8. Environmental Health Support ........................................................................35 Table 9. Nursing Support...more than 500 deaths. Towns and communities were terribly affected. Augusta was the hardest-hit city in the state. Trained nurses were far too few...Medical News Today, (January 16, 2006) http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/36234.php (accessed 29 November 2008). 4 As a consequence, nursing

  13. Spatially Referenced Educational Achievement Data Exploration: A Web-Based Interactive System Integration of GIS, PHP, and MySQL Technologies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mulvenon, Sean W.; Wang, Kening; Mckenzie, Sarah; Anderson, Travis

    2006-01-01

    Effective exploration of spatially referenced educational achievement data can help educational researchers and policy analysts speed up gaining valuable insight into datasets. This article illustrates a demo system developed in the National Office for Research on Measurement and Evaluation Systems (NORMES) for supporting Web-based interactive…

  14. Is the Library's Online Orientation Program Effective with English Language Learners?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Albarillo, Frans

    2017-01-01

    In this paper, the author examines four years of assessment data (N = 4,786) from Brooklyn College's Library Online Orientation Program (LOOP; url: https://library.brooklyn.cuny.edu/resources/loop/loop.php), which is used to provide all English 1010 students with an orientation to the library, to see if English language learners (ELLs) are…

  15. VerSeDa: vertebrate secretome database

    PubMed Central

    Cortazar, Ana R.; Oguiza, José A.

    2017-01-01

    Based on the current tools, de novo secretome (full set of proteins secreted by an organism) prediction is a time consuming bioinformatic task that requires a multifactorial analysis in order to obtain reliable in silico predictions. Hence, to accelerate this process and offer researchers a reliable repository where secretome information can be obtained for vertebrates and model organisms, we have developed VerSeDa (Vertebrate Secretome Database). This freely available database stores information about proteins that are predicted to be secreted through the classical and non-classical mechanisms, for the wide range of vertebrate species deposited at the NCBI, UCSC and ENSEMBL sites. To our knowledge, VerSeDa is the only state-of-the-art database designed to store secretome data from multiple vertebrate genomes, thus, saving an important amount of time spent in the prediction of protein features that can be retrieved from this repository directly. Database URL: VerSeDa is freely available at http://genomics.cicbiogune.es/VerSeDa/index.php PMID:28365718

  16. Web Service Model for Plasma Simulations with Automatic Post Processing and Generation of Visual Diagnostics*

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Exby, J.; Busby, R.; Dimitrov, D. A.; Bruhwiler, D.; Cary, J. R.

    2003-10-01

    We present our design and initial implementation of a web service model for running particle-in-cell (PIC) codes remotely from a web browser interface. PIC codes have grown significantly in complexity and now often require parallel execution on multiprocessor computers, which in turn requires sophisticated post-processing and data analysis. A significant amount of time and effort is required for a physicist to develop all the necessary skills, at the expense of actually doing research. Moreover, parameter studies with a computationally intensive code justify the systematic management of results with an efficient way to communicate them among a group of remotely located collaborators. Our initial implementation uses the OOPIC Pro code [1], Linux, Apache, MySQL, Python, and PHP. The Interactive Data Language is used for visualization. [1] D.L. Bruhwiler et al., Phys. Rev. ST-AB 4, 101302 (2001). * This work is supported by DOE grant # DE-FG02-03ER83857 and by Tech-X Corp. ** Also University of Colorado.

  17. Specification and Verification of Web Applications in Rewriting Logic

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alpuente, María; Ballis, Demis; Romero, Daniel

    This paper presents a Rewriting Logic framework that formalizes the interactions between Web servers and Web browsers through a communicating protocol abstracting HTTP. The proposed framework includes a scripting language that is powerful enough to model the dynamics of complex Web applications by encompassing the main features of the most popular Web scripting languages (e.g. PHP, ASP, Java Servlets). We also provide a detailed characterization of browser actions (e.g. forward/backward navigation, page refresh, and new window/tab openings) via rewrite rules, and show how our models can be naturally model-checked by using the Linear Temporal Logic of Rewriting (LTLR), which is a Linear Temporal Logic specifically designed for model-checking rewrite theories. Our formalization is particularly suitable for verification purposes, since it allows one to perform in-depth analyses of many subtle aspects related to Web interaction. Finally, the framework has been completely implemented in Maude, and we report on some successful experiments that we conducted by using the Maude LTLR model-checker.

  18. Geographic Information System (Gis) for Culinary in Pekanbaru using Herversine Formula

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yunefri, Yogi; Devega, Mariza; Kristanto, Dwi

    2017-12-01

    Pekanbaru is one of a big city in Indonesia with 897.767 inhabitants’ population on 2010. There are various cultures of the population. That diversity presents the difference of culinary in Pekanbaru, so Pekanbaru be one of the cities which appropriate for culinary that give charm circumstance and worth to taste. One of the obstacles that often occur is the tourists still difficult to find the right and nice place to eat, close to tourism place and find information about culinary is difficult as well. Therefore a web-based GIS application built to give information about culinary in Pekanbaru. This application built through some steps, i.e. system analysis, design system, implementation, and testing. This application built using PHP as a programming language and harversine Formula as a method to fine the closest distance. After it built the application, the data of culinary tested used black box. The result shows that testing using this application is similar with the manual test. Thus the application has been built correctly.

  19. Development of a web application for water resources based on open source software

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Delipetrev, Blagoj; Jonoski, Andreja; Solomatine, Dimitri P.

    2014-01-01

    This article presents research and development of a prototype web application for water resources using latest advancements in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), open source software and web GIS. The web application has three web services for: (1) managing, presenting and storing of geospatial data, (2) support of water resources modeling and (3) water resources optimization. The web application is developed using several programming languages (PhP, Ajax, JavaScript, Java), libraries (OpenLayers, JQuery) and open source software components (GeoServer, PostgreSQL, PostGIS). The presented web application has several main advantages: it is available all the time, it is accessible from everywhere, it creates a real time multi-user collaboration platform, the programing languages code and components are interoperable and designed to work in a distributed computer environment, it is flexible for adding additional components and services and, it is scalable depending on the workload. The application was successfully tested on a case study with concurrent multi-users access.

  20. MyLabStocks: a web-application to manage molecular biology materials

    PubMed Central

    Chuffart, Florent; Yvert, Gaël

    2014-01-01

    Laboratory stocks are the hardware of research. They must be stored and managed with mimimum loss of material and information. Plasmids, oligonucleotides and strains are regularly exchanged between collaborators within and between laboratories. Managing and sharing information about every item is crucial for retrieval of reagents, for planning experiments and for reproducing past experimental results. We have developed a web-based application to manage stocks commonly used in a molecular biology laboratory. Its functionalities include user-defined privileges, visualization of plasmid maps directly from their sequence and the capacity to search items from fields of annotation or directly from a query sequence using BLAST. It is designed to handle records of plasmids, oligonucleotides, yeast strains, antibodies, pipettes and notebooks. Based on PHP/MySQL, it can easily be extended to handle other types of stocks and it can be installed on any server architecture. MyLabStocks is freely available from: https://forge.cbp.ens-lyon.fr/redmine/projects/mylabstocks under an open source licence. PMID:24643870

  1. AncestrySNPminer: A bioinformatics tool to retrieve and develop ancestry informative SNP panels

    PubMed Central

    Amirisetty, Sushil; Khurana Hershey, Gurjit K.; Baye, Tesfaye M.

    2012-01-01

    A wealth of genomic information is available in public and private databases. However, this information is underutilized for uncovering population specific and functionally relevant markers underlying complex human traits. Given the huge amount of SNP data available from the annotation of human genetic variation, data mining is a faster and cost effective approach for investigating the number of SNPs that are informative for ancestry. In this study, we present AncestrySNPminer, the first web-based bioinformatics tool specifically designed to retrieve Ancestry Informative Markers (AIMs) from genomic data sets and link these informative markers to genes and ontological annotation classes. The tool includes an automated and simple “scripting at the click of a button” functionality that enables researchers to perform various population genomics statistical analyses methods with user friendly querying and filtering of data sets across various populations through a single web interface. AncestrySNPminer can be freely accessed at https://research.cchmc.org/mershalab/AncestrySNPminer/login.php. PMID:22584067

  2. Brain Tumor Database, a free relational database for collection and analysis of brain tumor patient information.

    PubMed

    Bergamino, Maurizio; Hamilton, David J; Castelletti, Lara; Barletta, Laura; Castellan, Lucio

    2015-03-01

    In this study, we describe the development and utilization of a relational database designed to manage the clinical and radiological data of patients with brain tumors. The Brain Tumor Database was implemented using MySQL v.5.0, while the graphical user interface was created using PHP and HTML, thus making it easily accessible through a web browser. This web-based approach allows for multiple institutions to potentially access the database. The BT Database can record brain tumor patient information (e.g. clinical features, anatomical attributes, and radiological characteristics) and be used for clinical and research purposes. Analytic tools to automatically generate statistics and different plots are provided. The BT Database is a free and powerful user-friendly tool with a wide range of possible clinical and research applications in neurology and neurosurgery. The BT Database graphical user interface source code and manual are freely available at http://tumorsdatabase.altervista.org. © The Author(s) 2013.

  3. BEARS: a multi-mission anomaly response system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roberts, Bryce A.

    2009-05-01

    The Mission Operations Group at UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory operates a highly automated ground station and presently a fleet of seven satellites, each with its own associated command and control console. However, the requirement for prompt anomaly detection and resolution is shared commonly between the ground segment and all spacecraft. The efficient, low-cost operation and "lights-out" staffing of the Mission Operations Group requires that controllers and engineers be notified of spacecraft and ground system problems around the clock. The Berkeley Emergency Anomaly and Response System (BEARS) is an in-house developed web- and paging-based software system that meets this need. BEARS was developed as a replacement for an existing emergency reporting software system that was too closedsource, platform-specific, expensive, and antiquated to expand or maintain. To avoid these limitations, the new system design leverages cross-platform, open-source software products such as MySQL, PHP, and Qt. Anomaly notifications and responses make use of the two-way paging capabilities of modern smart phones.

  4. Web-Based Honorarium Confirmation System Prototype

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wisswani, N. W.; Catur Bawa, I. G. N. B.

    2018-01-01

    Improving services in academic environment can be applied by regulating salary payment process for all employees. As a form of control to maintain financial transparency, employees should have information concerning salary payment process. Currently, notification process of committee honorarium will be accepted by the employees in a manual manner. The salary will be received by the employee bank account and to know its details, they should go to the accounting unit to find out further information. Though there are some employees entering the accounting unit, they still find difficulty to obtain information about detailed honor information that they received in their accounts. This can be caused by many data collected and to be managed. Based on this issue, this research will design a prototype of web-based system for accounting unit system in order to provide detailed financial transaction confirmation to employee bank accounts that have been informed through mobile banking system. This prototype will be developed with Waterfall method through testing on final users after it is developed through PHP program with MySQL as DBMS

  5. Interoperability between biomedical ontologies through relation expansion, upper-level ontologies and automatic reasoning.

    PubMed

    Hoehndorf, Robert; Dumontier, Michel; Oellrich, Anika; Rebholz-Schuhmann, Dietrich; Schofield, Paul N; Gkoutos, Georgios V

    2011-01-01

    Researchers design ontologies as a means to accurately annotate and integrate experimental data across heterogeneous and disparate data- and knowledge bases. Formal ontologies make the semantics of terms and relations explicit such that automated reasoning can be used to verify the consistency of knowledge. However, many biomedical ontologies do not sufficiently formalize the semantics of their relations and are therefore limited with respect to automated reasoning for large scale data integration and knowledge discovery. We describe a method to improve automated reasoning over biomedical ontologies and identify several thousand contradictory class definitions. Our approach aligns terms in biomedical ontologies with foundational classes in a top-level ontology and formalizes composite relations as class expressions. We describe the semi-automated repair of contradictions and demonstrate expressive queries over interoperable ontologies. Our work forms an important cornerstone for data integration, automatic inference and knowledge discovery based on formal representations of knowledge. Our results and analysis software are available at http://bioonto.de/pmwiki.php/Main/ReasonableOntologies.

  6. VerSeDa: vertebrate secretome database.

    PubMed

    Cortazar, Ana R; Oguiza, José A; Aransay, Ana M; Lavín, José L

    2017-01-01

    Based on the current tools, de novo secretome (full set of proteins secreted by an organism) prediction is a time consuming bioinformatic task that requires a multifactorial analysis in order to obtain reliable in silico predictions. Hence, to accelerate this process and offer researchers a reliable repository where secretome information can be obtained for vertebrates and model organisms, we have developed VerSeDa (Vertebrate Secretome Database). This freely available database stores information about proteins that are predicted to be secreted through the classical and non-classical mechanisms, for the wide range of vertebrate species deposited at the NCBI, UCSC and ENSEMBL sites. To our knowledge, VerSeDa is the only state-of-the-art database designed to store secretome data from multiple vertebrate genomes, thus, saving an important amount of time spent in the prediction of protein features that can be retrieved from this repository directly. VerSeDa is freely available at http://genomics.cicbiogune.es/VerSeDa/index.php. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press.

  7. Power Terminal Communication Access Network Monitoring System Scheme Based on Design Patterns

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Shengchao; Wu, Desheng; Zhu, Jiang

    2018-01-01

    In order to realize patterns design for terminal communication monitoring system, this paper introduces manager-workers, tasks-workers design patterns, based on common design patterns such as factory method, chain of responsibility, facade. Using these patterns, the communication monitoring system which combines module-groups like networking communication, business data processing and the peripheral support has been designed successfully. Using these patterns makes this system have great flexibility and scalability and improves the degree of systematic pattern design structure.

  8. Re-Inventing German Security and Defense Policy: A Struggle to be Understood

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2004-06-01

    book, see “Publisher Drops Nazi Porno Book,” Deutsche Welle World News, 5 February 2004, www.dw-world.de 20 Günzel who was fired for his outward...ed_inhalt_06.php “Publisher Drops Nazi Porno Book,” Deutsche Welle World News, 5 February 2004, www.dw-world.de Pye, Lucian W. and Sidney Verba

  9. December 2012 Policy Update: School Climate and Bully Prevention Trends State-by-State Assessment. School Climate Brief, Number 6

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bellizio, Dan

    2012-01-01

    This December 2012 Brief updates NSCC's 2011 report "State Policies on School Climate and Bully Prevention Efforts: Challenges and Opportunities for Deepening State Policy Support for Safe and Civil School"s (www.schoolclimate.org/climate/papers-briefs.php). This Brief provides a summary of State level: (1) anti-bullying legislation; (2)…

  10. The Emperor’s New Password Manager: Security Analysis of Web-based Password Managers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-07-07

    POST re- quest, LastPass will store h’ as authenticating Alice. Mallory can then use otp’ to log-in to LastPass us- ing otp’. Of course , decrypting the...everywhere. [36] M. Rochkind. Security, forms, and error handling. In Expert PHP and MySQL , pages 191–247. Springer, 2013. [37] D. Silver, S. Jana, E

  11. CHINA.COM The Effect of Globalization on Chinese Decision- Making

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2004-05-18

    for Democracy,” (New York: Routledge, 1999), 12. 42 Ibid., 18. 43 Ibid., 19. 44 Leslie David Simon , “The Net: Power and Policy in the 21st Century...2003, <http://www.ojr.org/ojr/world_reports/1068766903.php> [10 May 2004]. 52 Leslie David Simon , “The Net: Power and Policy in the 21st Century

  12. Enabling interspecies epigenomic comparison with CEpBrowser.

    PubMed

    Cao, Xiaoyi; Zhong, Sheng

    2013-05-01

    We developed the Comparative Epigenome Browser (CEpBrowser) to allow the public to perform multi-species epigenomic analysis. The web-based CEpBrowser integrates, manages and visualizes sequencing-based epigenomic datasets. Five key features were developed to maximize the efficiency of interspecies epigenomic comparisons. CEpBrowser is a web application implemented with PHP, MySQL, C and Apache. URL: http://www.cepbrowser.org/.

  13. March Madness! A Look at Evergreen Parenting Topics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Parenting for High Potential, 2014

    2014-01-01

    Many topics in the world of gifted are evergreen. Whether it be 1964 or 2014, they're still relevant. In this issue, "Parenting for High Potential" takes a peek into the archives to look at topics that have run in various March issues of PHP through the years. No matter where you are on the gifted journey, there's something here for…

  14. Ten Tips That May Help Ease Your Child's Transition to Adulthood. PHP-c107

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2005

    2005-01-01

    Planning for a child's transition from adolescence to adulthood is one of the most important things a parent can do to pave the way to a successful future. In Minnesota, special education transition planning and services begin when a child with a disability is fourteen. From then on, parents and their children will start learning new skills…

  15. Successful Transitions: Making the Move to High School. PHP-c108

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2005

    2005-01-01

    Moving from middle school to high school can be challenging and exciting, but students with special needs may need to begin preparing for the move earlier than other students. As with other major changes in a child's life, the move to high school will go more smoothly if parents gather information and do some planning. A good time to begin…

  16. Families Need Support: The Challenges of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. PHP-c86

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2004

    2004-01-01

    Being a parent is exhausting work, even when children do not have emotional problems. All parents need information, encouragement, training, and support to raise healthy children. No one is born with all the skills necessary to handle every problem, yet too often, when parents do ask for help for their children, they are turned down until the…

  17. Drop-Out Prevention: Parents Play a Key Role. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c114

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2006

    2006-01-01

    What can parents do to make sure their children with disabilities stay in school and graduate? Be involved. Research shows that one of the most essential strategies for promoting school completion and achievement is family involvement. When families remain involved in their children's middle and high school education, students are more likely to…

  18. School Accommodation and Modification Ideas for Students Who Receive Special Education Services. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets: PHP-c49

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2013

    2013-01-01

    Some students with disabilities who receive special education services need accommodations or modifications to their educational program in order to participate in the general curriculum and to be successful in school. While the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and its regulations do not define accommodations or modifications,…

  19. IDEA 2004: Section 615 (k) (Placement in Alternative Educational Setting). PHP-c111

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2005

    2005-01-01

    School personnel may consider any unique circumstances on a case-by-case basis when determining whether to order a change in placement for a child with a disability who violates a code of student conduct. This article describes IDEA 2004: Section 615 (k), which discusses the placement of special needs children in alternative educational settings.…

  20. The Air Force In Silico -- Computational Biology in 2025

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-11-01

    and chromosome) these new fields are commonly referred to as “~omics.” Proteomics , transcriptomics, metabolomics , epigenomics, physiomics... Bioinformatics , 2006, http://journal.imbio.de/ http://www-bm.ipk-gatersleben.de/stable/php/ journal /articles/pdf/jib-22.pdf (accessed 30 September...Chirino, G. Tansley and I. Dryden, “The implications for Bioinformatics of integration across physical scales,” Journal of Integrative Bioinformatics

  1. Augmentative Device Helps Max Speak. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c75

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2014

    2014-01-01

    This Action Information Sheet follows a family's process of selecting and using augmentative and alternative communication to help their young son, Max, speak. Max is affected by global dyspraxia, which makes learning new motor skills--especially speech--quite difficult. For the first years of his life, Max could not say words. Before he and his…

  2. It's the "Person First" Then the Disability. PHP-C31

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2005

    2005-01-01

    This article briefly discusses the proper way to speak to or about someone who has a disability and why it is important to say it differently for a person with a disability. In speaking or writing, remember that children or adults with disabilities are like everyone else--except they happen to have a disability. This article offers a few tips for…

  3. Personalized Health Planning With Integrative Health Coaching to Reduce Obesity Risk Among Women Gaining Excess Weight During Pregnancy

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Nancy Y.; Wroth, Shelley; Parham, Catherine; Strait, Melva

    2013-01-01

    Health coaching is an emerging behavioral intervention to improve outcomes in chronic disease management and prevention; however, no studies have investigated its utility in postpartum women who have gained excess weight during pregnancy. A 32-year-old primigravida woman who was overweight at conception and gained 23 lbs more than Institute of Medicine recommendations for her pre-pregnancy body mass index participated in a 6-month personalized health planning with integrative health coaching (PHPIHC) intervention. The intervention included a baseline health risk assessment review with a healthcare provider and eight biweekly, 30-minute telephonic health coaching sessions. The participant demonstrated improvement in physical activity, energy expenditure, knowledge, and confidence to engage in healthpromoting behaviors. Although the participant did not reach the target weight by completion of the health coaching sessions, follow up 8 months later indicated she achieved the target goal (within 5% of prepregnancy weight). This case report suggests that PHP-IHC can support postpartum women in returning to pre-pregnancy weight after gaining excess gestational weight. Future research and clinical trials are needed to determine the best timing, length, and medium (online, in-person, telephonic) of PHP-IHC for postpartum women. PMID:24278848

  4. Implementation of an interactive database interface utilizing HTML, PHP, JavaScript, and MySQL in support of water quality assessments in the Northeastern North Carolina Pasquotank Watershed

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guion, A., Jr.; Hodgkins, H.

    2015-12-01

    The Center of Excellence in Remote Sensing Education and Research (CERSER) has implemented three research projects during the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program gathering water quality data for local waterways. The data has been compiled manually utilizing pen and paper and then entered into a spreadsheet. With the spread of electronic devices capable of interacting with databases, the development of an electronic method of entering and manipulating the water quality data was pursued during this project. This project focused on the development of an interactive database to gather, display, and analyze data collected from local waterways. The database and entry form was built in MySQL on a PHP server allowing participants to enter data from anywhere Internet access is available. This project then researched applying this data to the Google Maps site to provide labeling and information to users. The NIA server at http://nia.ecsu.edu is used to host the application for download and for storage of the databases. Water Quality Database Team members included the authors plus Derek Morris Jr., Kathryne Burton and Mr. Jeff Wood as mentor.

  5. Oral health status of children with syndromic craniosynostosis.

    PubMed

    Dalben, Gisele da Silva; Costa, Beatriz; Gomide, Marcia Ribeiro

    2006-01-01

    To gain more information on the oral health status of subjects with syndromic craniosynostosis. A cross-sectional study. The present study took place at the Hospital for Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies of University of São Paulo (HRAC-USP). The sample was 19 patients with syndromic craniosynostosis (10 Apert, 5 Crouzon, 2 Pfeiffer and 2 Saethre-Chotzen), aged 5 to 15 years. An assessment of plaque, caries and gingival indices, and evaluation of the efficacy of toothbrushing was carried out. The measurements included PHP index, dmft and DMFT indices, gingival index, comparison of PHP before and after non-supervised toothbrushing and between individuals with and without severe syndactyly. The patients displayed high plaque index and poor efficacy of toothbrushing, regardless of the presence of severe syndactyly; despite the plaque accumulation, the gingival index was not proportionally high. There was predominance of the D component for the DMFT index, which combined with the need for restorative treatment in 42.1% of the patients indicates poor access to dental care by these patients. The results show the need for a dental follow-up programme for these patients. Carers should be informed of the importance in aiding these patients during accomplishment of oral hygiene at home.

  6. Optimizing Phosphoric Acid plus Hydrogen Peroxide (PHP) Pretreatment on Wheat Straw by Response Surface Method for Enzymatic Saccharification.

    PubMed

    Qiu, Jingwen; Wang, Qing; Shen, Fei; Yang, Gang; Zhang, Yanzong; Deng, Shihuai; Zhang, Jing; Zeng, Yongmei; Song, Chun

    2017-03-01

    Wheat straw was pretreated by phosphoric acid plus hydrogen peroxide (PHP), in which temperature, time, and H 3 PO 4 proportion for pretreatment were investigated by using response surface method. Results indicated that hemicellulose and lignin removal positively responded to the increase of pretreatment temperature, H 3 PO 4 proportion, and time. H 3 PO 4 proportion was the most important variable to control cellulose recovery, followed by pretreatment temperature and time. Moreover, these three variables all negatively related to cellulose recovery. Increasing H 3 PO 4 proportion can improve enzymatic hydrolysis; however, reduction on cellulose recovery results in decrease of glucose yield. Extra high temperature or long time for pretreatment was not beneficial to enzymatic hydrolysis and glucose yield. Based on the criterion for minimizing H 3 PO 4 usage and maximizing glucose yield, the optimized pretreatment conditions was 40 °C, 2.0 h, and H 3 PO 4 proportion of 70.2 % (H 2 O 2 proportion of 5.2 %), by which glucose yielded 299 mg/g wheat straw (946.2 mg/g cellulose) after 72-h enzymatic hydrolysis.

  7. PHOS Experiment: Thermal Response of a Large Diameter Pulsating Heat Pipe on Board REXUS-18 Rocket

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Creatini, F.; Guidi, G. M.; Belfi, F.; Cicero, G.; Fioriti, D.; Di Prizio, D.; Piacquadio, S.; Becatti, G.; Orlandini, G.; Frigerio, A.; Fontanesi, S.; Nannipieri, P.; Rognini, M.; Morganti, N.; Filippeschi, S.; Di Marco, P.; Fanucci, L.; Baronti, F.; Mameli, M.; Marengo, M.; Manzoni, M.

    2015-09-01

    In the present work, the results of two Closed Loop Pulsating Heat Pipes (CLPHPs) tested on board REXUS-1 8 sounding rocket in order to get experimental data over a relatively broad reduced gravity period (about 90 s) are thoroughly discussed. The CLPHPs are partially filled with refrigerant FC-72 and have, respectively, an inner tube diameter larger (3 .0 mm) and slightly smaller (1 .6 mm) than a critical diameter defined on Earth gravity conditions. On ground, the small diameter CLPHP works as a real Pulsating Heat Pipe (PHP): the typical capillary slug flow pattern forms inside the device and the heat exchange is triggered by self-sustained thermally driven oscillations of the working fluid. Conversely, the large diameter CLPHP behaves like a two-phase thermosyphon in vertical position while does not operate in horizontal position as the working fluid stratifies within the tube and surface tension is not able to balance buoyancy. Then, the idea to test the CLPHPs under reduced gravity conditions: as soon as gravity reduces, buoyancy becomes less intense and the typical capillary slug flow pattern can also forms within a tube with a larger diameter. Moreover, this allows to increase the heat transfer rate and, consequently, to decrease the overall thermal resistance. Even though it was not possible to experience the expected reduced gravity conditions due to a failure of the yo-yo de-spin system, the thermal response to the peculiar acceleration field (hyper-gravity) experienced on board are thoroughly described.

  8. FORM version 4.0

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuipers, J.; Ueda, T.; Vermaseren, J. A. M.; Vollinga, J.

    2013-05-01

    We present version 4.0 of the symbolic manipulation system FORM. The most important new features are manipulation of rational polynomials and the factorization of expressions. Many other new functions and commands are also added; some of them are very general, while others are designed for building specific high level packages, such as one for Gröbner bases. New is also the checkpoint facility, that allows for periodic backups during long calculations. Finally, FORM 4.0 has become available as open source under the GNU General Public License version 3. Program summaryProgram title: FORM. Catalogue identifier: AEOT_v1_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEOT_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: GNU General Public License, version 3 No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 151599 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 1 078 748 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: The FORM language. FORM itself is programmed in a mixture of C and C++. Computer: All. Operating system: UNIX, LINUX, Mac OS, Windows. Classification: 5. Nature of problem: FORM defines a symbolic manipulation language in which the emphasis lies on fast processing of very large formulas. It has been used successfully for many calculations in Quantum Field Theory and mathematics. In speed and size of formulas that can be handled it outperforms other systems typically by an order of magnitude. Special in this version: The version 4.0 contains many new features. Most important are factorization and rational arithmetic. The program has also become open source under the GPL. The code in CPC is for reference. You are encouraged to upload the most recent sources from www.nikhef.nl/form/formcvs.php because of frequent bug fixes. Solution method: See "Nature of Problem", above. Additional comments: NOTE: The code in CPC is for reference. You are encouraged to upload the most recent sources from www.nikhef.nl/form/formcvs.php because of frequent bug fixes.

  9. Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Uplink Analysis Tool

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Khanampompan, Teerapat; Gladden, Roy; Fisher, Forest; Hwang, Pauline

    2008-01-01

    This software analyzes Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) orbital geometry with respect to Mars Exploration Rover (MER) contact windows, and is the first tool of its kind designed specifically to support MRO-MER interface coordination. Prior to this automated tool, this analysis was done manually with Excel and the UNIX command line. In total, the process would take approximately 30 minutes for each analysis. The current automated analysis takes less than 30 seconds. This tool resides on the flight machine and uses a PHP interface that does the entire analysis of the input files and takes into account one-way light time from another input file. Input flies are copied over to the proper directories and are dynamically read into the tool s interface. The user can then choose the corresponding input files based on the time frame desired for analysis. After submission of the Web form, the tool merges the two files into a single, time-ordered listing of events for both spacecraft. The times are converted to the same reference time (Earth Transmit Time) by reading in a light time file and performing the calculations necessary to shift the time formats. The program also has the ability to vary the size of the keep-out window on the main page of the analysis tool by inputting a custom time for padding each MRO event time. The parameters on the form are read in and passed to the second page for analysis. Everything is fully coded in PHP and can be accessed by anyone with access to the machine via Web page. This uplink tool will continue to be used for the duration of the MER mission's needs for X-band uplinks. Future missions also can use the tools to check overflight times as well as potential site observation times. Adaptation of the input files to the proper format, and the window keep-out times, would allow for other analyses. Any operations task that uses the idea of keep-out windows will have a use for this program.

  10. Impacts of Urbanization on Precipitation and Storms: Physical Insights and Vulnerabilities

    Treesearch

    J. M. Shepherd

    2013-01-01

    On January 19, 2011, an unusual weather event occurred. The National Weather Service Web site (http://www.crh.noaa. gov/news/display_cmsstory.php?wfo¼ddc&storyid¼62980& source¼0) described the event in the following way: “the atmosphere was cold and moist with low clouds and fog preceding the formation of the snow.

  11. Evaluating Courses of Actions at the Strategic Planning Level

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-03-01

    and statistical decision theory ( Schultz , Borrowman and Small 2011). Nowadays, it is hard to make a decision by ourselves. Modern organizations...Analysis." Lecture Slides, October 2011. Schultz , Martin T., Thomas D. Borrowman, and Mitchell J. Small. Bayesian Networks for Modeling Dredging...www.ukessays.com/essays/business/strategic-analysis-of-procter-and-gamble.php (accessed October 09, 2012). Vego, Milan . Joint Operational Warfare. Vol. Vol 1

  12. Assistive Technology for Infants, Toddlers, and Young Children with Disabilities. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets: PHP-c212

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2014

    2014-01-01

    Research shows that assistive technology (AT) can help young children with disabilities to learn developmental skills. Its use may help infants and toddlers to improve in many areas such as: (1) social skills including sharing and taking turns; (2) communication skills; (3) attention span; (4) fine and gross motor skills; and (5) self confidence…

  13. A database for coconut crop improvement.

    PubMed

    Rajagopal, Velamoor; Manimekalai, Ramaswamy; Devakumar, Krishnamurthy; Rajesh; Karun, Anitha; Niral, Vittal; Gopal, Murali; Aziz, Shamina; Gunasekaran, Marimuthu; Kumar, Mundappurathe Ramesh; Chandrasekar, Arumugam

    2005-12-08

    Coconut crop improvement requires a number of biotechnology and bioinformatics tools. A database containing information on CG (coconut germplasm), CCI (coconut cultivar identification), CD (coconut disease), MIFSPC (microbial information systems in plantation crops) and VO (vegetable oils) is described. The database was developed using MySQL and PostgreSQL running in Linux operating system. The database interface is developed in PHP, HTML and JAVA. http://www.bioinfcpcri.org.

  14. An Evaluation of the Implementation of Hand Held Health Records with Adults with Learning Disabilities: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Turk, Vicky; Burchell, Sarah; Burrha, Sukhjinder; Corney, Roslyn; Elliott, Sandra; Kerry, Sally; Molloy, Catherine; Painter, Kerry

    2010-01-01

    Background: Personal health records were implemented with adults with learning disabilities (AWLD) to try to improve their health-care. Materials and Method: Forty GP practices were randomized to the Personal Health Profile (PHP) implementation or control group. Two hundred and one AWLD were interviewed at baseline and 163 followed up after 12…

  15. Be Your Own Best Advocate. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c116

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2006

    2006-01-01

    Being a self-advocate means asking for what one needs while respecting the needs of others. Self-advocacy is asking for what is needed in a direct, respectful manner. It is an important skill to acquire because self-advocacy helps: (1) Obtain what is needed; (2) People make personal choices; (3) Learn to say no without feeling guilty; and (4)…

  16. A New Tool for Managing Students' Self-Evaluations in Traditional and Distance Education Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Contreras-Castillo, Juan; Block, Arthur Edwards

    This paper describes a Web-based question-answering system called E-teacher that can be used in both traditional and distance learning courses to review academic contents. E-teacher is a self-editing template-based system that consists of a set of PHP scripts that generate the HTML code dynamically, or "on the fly." The entire E-teacher…

  17. A New and Improved MPB Web Site

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Warner, Brian D.

    2018-01-01

    The Minor Planet Bulletin home page has a new URL: http://www.MinorPlanet.info/MPB/mpb.php. The new home page features free access (data rates may apply) to almost all papers from Volume 1 (1973) to present. Also included are a basic search feature that allows finding papers by title/abstract and/or authors and links to download the MPB authors guide and cumulative indices.

  18. The Evolution of the Taliban

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-06-01

    Charismatic Leaders," T + D (March 1, 2003), 46, http://www.proquest.com/ (accessed December 2, 2007). 22 The Taliban made rapid military progress...Almond, R . Scott Appleby and Emmanuel Sivan, Strong Religion : The Rise of Fundamentalisms Around the World (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2003...For details see "Frontier Corps," Pakistan Military Consortium, http://www.pakdef.info/forum/showthread.php? t =5300 , (accessed January 11, 2008). 68

  19. Speech and Language and Language Translation (SALT)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-12-01

    Resources are classified as: Parallel Text Dictionaries Monolingual Text Other Dictionaries are further classified as: Text: can download entire...not clear how many are translated http://www.redsea-online.com/modules.php?name= dictionary Monolingual Text Monolingual Text; An Crubadan web...attached to a following word. A program could be written to detach the character د from unknown words, when the remaining word matches a dictionary

  20. Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit: is it an adequate public health response to addressing the issue of caregiver burden in end-of-life care?

    PubMed

    Williams, Allison M; Eby, Jeanette A; Crooks, Valorie A; Stajduhar, Kelli; Giesbrecht, Melissa; Vuksan, Mirjana; Cohen, S Robin; Brazil, Kevin; Allan, Diane

    2011-05-18

    An increasingly significant public health issue in Canada, and elsewhere throughout the developed world, pertains to the provision of adequate palliative/end-of-life (P/EOL) care. Informal caregivers who take on the responsibility of providing P/EOL care often experience negative physical, mental, emotional, social and economic consequences. In this article, we specifically examine how Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB)--a contributory benefits social program aimed at informal P/EOL caregivers--operates as a public health response in sustaining informal caregivers providing P/EOL care, and whether or not it adequately addresses known aspects of caregiver burden that are addressed within the population health promotion (PHP) model. As part of a national evaluation of Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit, 57 telephone interviews were conducted with Canadian informal P/EOL caregivers in 5 different provinces, pertaining to the strengths and weaknesses of the CCB and the general caregiving experience. Interview data was coded with Nvivo software and emerging themes were identified by the research team, with such findings published elsewhere. The purpose of the present analysis was identified after comparing the findings to the literature specific to caregiver burden and public health, after which data was analyzed using the PHP model as a guiding framework. Informal caregivers spoke to several of the determinants of health outlined in the PHP model that are implicated in their burden experience: gender, income and social status, working conditions, health and social services, social support network, and personal health practises and coping strategies. They recognized the need for improving the CCB to better address these determinants. This study, from the perspective of family caregivers, demonstrates that the CCB is not living up to its full potential in sustaining informal P/EOL caregivers. Effort is required to transform the CCB so that it may fulfill the potential it holds for serving as one public health response to caregiver burden that forms part of a healthy public policy that addresses the determinants of this burden.

  1. Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit: Is it an adequate public health response to addressing the issue of caregiver burden in end-of-life care?

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Background An increasingly significant public health issue in Canada, and elsewhere throughout the developed world, pertains to the provision of adequate palliative/end-of-life (P/EOL) care. Informal caregivers who take on the responsibility of providing P/EOL care often experience negative physical, mental, emotional, social and economic consequences. In this article, we specifically examine how Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB) - a contributory benefits social program aimed at informal P/EOL caregivers - operates as a public health response in sustaining informal caregivers providing P/EOL care, and whether or not it adequately addresses known aspects of caregiver burden that are addressed within the population health promotion (PHP) model. Methods As part of a national evaluation of Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit, 57 telephone interviews were conducted with Canadian informal P/EOL caregivers in 5 different provinces, pertaining to the strengths and weaknesses of the CCB and the general caregiving experience. Interview data was coded with Nvivo software and emerging themes were identified by the research team, with such findings published elsewhere. The purpose of the present analysis was identified after comparing the findings to the literature specific to caregiver burden and public health, after which data was analyzed using the PHP model as a guiding framework. Results Informal caregivers spoke to several of the determinants of health outlined in the PHP model that are implicated in their burden experience: gender, income and social status, working conditions, health and social services, social support network, and personal health practises and coping strategies. They recognized the need for improving the CCB to better address these determinants. Conclusions This study, from the perspective of family caregivers, demonstrates that the CCB is not living up to its full potential in sustaining informal P/EOL caregivers. Effort is required to transform the CCB so that it may fulfill the potential it holds for serving as one public health response to caregiver burden that forms part of a healthy public policy that addresses the determinants of this burden. PMID:21592383

  2. Out-of-pocket medical expenses for inpatient care among beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance Program in the Philippines.

    PubMed

    Tobe, Makoto; Stickley, Andrew; del Rosario, Rodolfo B; Shibuya, Kenji

    2013-08-01

    OBJECTIVE The National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) in the Philippines is a social health insurance system partially subsidized by tax-based financing which offers benefits on a fee-for-service basis up to a fixed ceiling. This paper quantifies the extent to which beneficiaries of the NHIP incur out-of-pocket expenses for inpatient care, and examines the characteristics of beneficiaries making these payments and the hospitals in which these payments are typically made. METHODS Probit and ordinary least squares regression analyses were carried out on 94 531 insurance claims from Benguet province and Baguio city during the period 2007 to 2009. RESULTS Eighty-six per cent of claims involved an out-of-pocket payment. The median figure for out-of-pocket payments was Philippine Pesos (PHP) 3016 (US$67), with this figure varying widely [inter-quartile range (IQR): PHP 9393 (US$209)]. Thirteen per cent of claims involved very large out-of-pocket payments exceeding PHP 19 213 (US$428)-the equivalent of 10% of the average annual household income in the region. Membership type, disease severity, age and residential location of the patient, length of hospitalization, and ownership and level of the hospital were all significantly associated with making out-of-pocket payments and/or the size of these payments. CONCLUSION Although the current NHIP reduces the size of out-of-pocket payments, NHIP beneficiaries are not completely free from the risk of large out-of-pocket payments (as the size of these payments varies widely and can be extremely large), despite NHIP's attempts to mitigate this by setting different benefit ceilings based on the level of the hospital and the severity of the disease. To reduce these large out-of-pocket payments and to increase financial risk protection further, it is essential to ensure more investment for health from social health insurance and/or tax-based government funding as well as shifting the provider payment mechanism from a fee-for-service to a case-based payment method (which up until now has only been partially implemented).

  3. Siderophile-element Anomalies in CK Carbonaceous Chondrites: Implications for Parent-body Aqueous Alteration and Terrestrial Weathering of Sulfides

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Huber, Heinz; Rubin, Alan E.; Kallemeyn, Gregory W.; Wasson, John T.

    2006-01-01

    CK chondrites constitute the most oxidized anhydrous carbonaceous chondrite group; most of the Fe occurs in magnetite and in FeO-rich mafic silicates. The two observed CK falls (Karoonda and Kobe), along with thirteen relatively unweathered CK finds, have unfractionated siderophile-element abundance patterns. In contrast, a sizable fraction of CK finds (9 of 24 investigated) shows fractionated siderophile abundance patterns including low abundances of Ni, Co, Se and Au; the most extreme depletions are in Ni (0.24 of normal CK) and Au (0.14 of normal CK). This depletion pattern has not been found in other chondrite groups. Out of the 74 CK chondrites listed in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database (2006; excluded considerably paired specimens; see http://tin.er.usgs.gov/meteor/ metbull.php) we analyzed 24 and subclassified the CK chondrites in terms of their chemical composition and sulfide mineralogy: sL (siderophiles low; six samples) for large depletions in Ni, Co, Se and Au (>50% of sulfides lost); sM (siderophiles medium; two CKs) for moderately low Ni and Co abundances (sulfides are highly altered or partly lost); sH (siderophiles high; one specimen) for enrichments in Ni, Co, Se and Au; 'normal' for unfractionated samples (13 samples). The sole sH sample may have obtained additional sulfide from impact redistribution in the parent asteroid. We infer that these elements became incorporated into sulfides after asteroidal aqueous processes oxidized nebular metal; thermal metamorphism probably also played a role in their mineral siting. The siderophile losses in the SL and sM samples are mainly the result of oxidation of pentlandite, pyrite and violarite by terrestrial alteration followed by leaching of the resulting phases. Some Antarctic CK chondrites have lost most of their sulfides but retained Ni, Co, Se and Au, presumably as insoluble weathering products.

  4. Design space exploration for early identification of yield limiting patterns

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Helen; Zou, Elain; Lee, Robben; Hong, Sid; Liu, Square; Wang, JinYan; Du, Chunshan; Zhang, Recco; Madkour, Kareem; Ali, Hussein; Hsu, Danny; Kabeel, Aliaa; ElManhawy, Wael; Kwan, Joe

    2016-03-01

    In order to resolve the causality dilemma of which comes first, accurate design rules or real designs, this paper presents a flow for exploration of the layout design space to early identify problematic patterns that will negatively affect the yield. A new random layout generating method called Layout Schema Generator (LSG) is reported in this paper, this method generates realistic design-like layouts without any design rule violation. Lithography simulation is then used on the generated layout to discover the potentially problematic patterns (hotspots). These hotspot patterns are further explored by randomly inducing feature and context variations to these identified hotspots through a flow called Hotspot variation Flow (HSV). Simulation is then performed on these expanded set of layout clips to further identify more problematic patterns. These patterns are then classified into design forbidden patterns that should be included in the design rule checker and legal patterns that need better handling in the RET recipes and processes.

  5. Cryogenic Design of a Large Superconducting Magnet for Astro-particle Shielding on Deep Space Travel Missions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bruce, Romain; Baudouy, Bertrand

    The Space Radiation Superconducting Shield (SR2S) European project aims at studying a large superconducting toroid magnet to protect the human habitat from the ionizing radiations coming from Galactic Cosmic Ray during long term missions in deep space. Titanium clad MgB2 conductor is used to afford a bending power greater than 5 T.m at 10 K. A specific cryogenic design is needed to cool down this 10 m long and 12.8 m in diameter magnet. A passive cooling system, using a V-groove sunshield, is considered to reduce the heat flux coming from the Sun or Mars. An active configuration, using pulse tube cryocoolers, will be linked to the 80 K thermal screen intercepting most of the heat fluxes coming from the human habitat. The toroid magnet will be connected also to cryocoolers to absorb the few watts reaching its surface. Two kinds of thermal link are being considered to absorb the heat on the 80 K thermal screen. The first one is active, with a pump circulating helium gas in a network of exchange tubes. The second one is passive using long cryogenic pulse heat pipe (PHP) with the evaporator on the surface of the thermal screen and the condenser attached to the pulse tube.

  6. Information technologies in public health management: a database on biocides to improve quality of life.

    PubMed

    Roman, C; Scripcariu, L; Diaconescu, Rm; Grigoriu, A

    2012-01-01

    Biocides for prolonging the shelf life of a large variety of materials have been extensively used over the last decades. It has estimated that the worldwide biocide consumption to be about 12.4 billion dollars in 2011, and is expected to increase in 2012. As biocides are substances we get in contact with in our everyday lives, access to this type of information is of paramount importance in order to ensure an appropriate living environment. Consequently, a database where information may be quickly processed, sorted, and easily accessed, according to different search criteria, is the most desirable solution. The main aim of this work was to design and implement a relational database with complete information about biocides used in public health management to improve the quality of life. Design and implementation of a relational database for biocides, by using the software "phpMyAdmin". A database, which allows for an efficient collection, storage, and management of information including chemical properties and applications of a large quantity of biocides, as well as its adequate dissemination into the public health environment. The information contained in the database herein presented promotes an adequate use of biocides, by means of information technologies, which in consequence may help achieve important improvement in our quality of life.

  7. Applying machine learning to pattern analysis for automated in-design layout optimization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cain, Jason P.; Fakhry, Moutaz; Pathak, Piyush; Sweis, Jason; Gennari, Frank; Lai, Ya-Chieh

    2018-04-01

    Building on previous work for cataloging unique topological patterns in an integrated circuit physical design, a new process is defined in which a risk scoring methodology is used to rank patterns based on manufacturing risk. Patterns with high risk are then mapped to functionally equivalent patterns with lower risk. The higher risk patterns are then replaced in the design with their lower risk equivalents. The pattern selection and replacement is fully automated and suitable for use for full-chip designs. Results from 14nm product designs show that the approach can identify and replace risk patterns with quantifiable positive impact on the risk score distribution after replacement.

  8. A User-Centered Framework for Deriving A Conceptual Design From User Experiences: Leveraging Personas and Patterns to Create Usable Designs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Javahery, Homa; Deichman, Alexander; Seffah, Ahmed; Taleb, Mohamed

    Patterns are a design tool to capture best practices, tackling problems that occur in different contexts. A user interface (UI) design pattern spans several levels of design abstraction ranging from high-level navigation to low-level idioms detailing a screen layout. One challenge is to combine a set of patterns to create a conceptual design that reflects user experiences. In this chapter, we detail a user-centered design (UCD) framework that exploits the novel idea of using personas and patterns together. Personas are used initially to collect and model user experiences. UI patterns are selected based on personas pecifications; these patterns are then used as building blocks for constructing conceptual designs. Through the use of a case study, we illustrate how personas and patterns can act as complementary techniques in narrowing the gap between two major steps in UCD: capturing users and their experiences, and building an early design based on that information. As a result of lessons learned from the study and by refining our framework, we define a more systematic process called UX-P (User Experiences to Pattern), with a supporting tool. The process introduces intermediate analytical steps and supports designers in creating usable designs.

  9. Applications of Ontology Design Patterns in Biomedical Ontologies

    PubMed Central

    Mortensen, Jonathan M.; Horridge, Matthew; Musen, Mark A.; Noy, Natalya F.

    2012-01-01

    Ontology design patterns (ODPs) are a proposed solution to facilitate ontology development, and to help users avoid some of the most frequent modeling mistakes. ODPs originate from similar approaches in software engineering, where software design patterns have become a critical aspect of software development. There is little empirical evidence for ODP prevalence or effectiveness thus far. In this work, we determine the use and applicability of ODPs in a case study of biomedical ontologies. We encoded ontology design patterns from two ODP catalogs. We then searched for these patterns in a set of eight ontologies. We found five patterns of the 69 patterns. Two of the eight ontologies contained these patterns. While ontology design patterns provide a vehicle for capturing formally reoccurring models and best practices in ontology design, we show that today their use in a case study of widely used biomedical ontologies is limited. PMID:23304337

  10. Initial Teacher Education for Minority Medium-of-Instruction Teaching: The Case Study of Scottish Gaelic in Scotland

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Milligan Dombrowski, Lindsay; Danson, Eilidh; Danson, Mike; Chalmers, Douglas; Neil, Peter

    2014-01-01

    Gaelic medium education (GME) was established in Scotland in 1985, with 24 students enrolled in that year [Bòrd na Gàidhlig. (n.d.). "Gaelic education." Retrieved May 20, 2013, from http://www.gaidhlig.org.uk/bord/en/our-work/education/index.php (Bòrd na Gàidhlig website)]. Since this time, growth within GME has been incremental, and in…

  11. Automatic Target Recognition Using Nonlinear Autoregressive Neural Networks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-03-27

    Lee and Chang (2009) employed a NARXNet for studying the thermodynamics in a pulsating heat pipe (PHP), a type of cooling device which contains...in Thermal Dynamics Identifcation of a Pulsating Heat Pipe . Energy Consversion and Management, 1069-1078. Lisboa, P. J. (2002). A review of...function by adjusting the values of the connections between elements. This flexibility allows ANNs to perform complex functions in fields to include

  12. Methods to Secure Databases Against Vulnerabilities

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-12-01

    for several languages such as C, C++, PHP, Java and Python [16]. MySQL will work well with very large databases. The documentation references...using Eclipse and connected to each database management system using Python and Java drivers provided by MySQL , MongoDB, and Datastax (for Cassandra...tiers in Python and Java . Problem MySQL MongoDB Cassandra 1. Injection a. Tautologies Vulnerable Vulnerable Not Vulnerable b. Illegal query

  13. Cloud Computing Trace Characterization and Synthetic Workload Generation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-03-01

    measurements [44]. Olio is primarily for learning Web 2.0 technologies, evaluating the three implementations (PHP, Java EE, and RubyOnRails (ROR...Add Event 17 Olio is well documented, but assumes prerequisite knowledge with setup and operation of apache web servers and MySQL databases. Olio...Faban supports numerous servers such as Apache httpd, Sun Java System Web, Portal and Mail Servers, Oracle RDBMS, memcached, and others [18]. Perhaps

  14. A database for coconut crop improvement

    PubMed Central

    Rajagopal, Velamoor; Manimekalai, Ramaswamy; Devakumar, Krishnamurthy; Rajesh; Karun, Anitha; Niral, Vittal; Gopal, Murali; Aziz, Shamina; Gunasekaran, Marimuthu; Kumar, Mundappurathe Ramesh; Chandrasekar, Arumugam

    2005-01-01

    Coconut crop improvement requires a number of biotechnology and bioinformatics tools. A database containing information on CG (coconut germplasm), CCI (coconut cultivar identification), CD (coconut disease), MIFSPC (microbial information systems in plantation crops) and VO (vegetable oils) is described. The database was developed using MySQL and PostgreSQL running in Linux operating system. The database interface is developed in PHP, HTML and JAVA. Availability http://www.bioinfcpcri.org PMID:17597858

  15. Unclassified Information Sharing and Coordination in Security, Stabilization, Transition and Reconstruction Efforts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-03-01

    is implemented using the Drupal (2007) content management system (CMS) and many of the baseline information sharing and collaboration tools have...been contributed through the Dru- pal open source community. Drupal is a very modular open source software written in PHP hypertext processor...needed to suit the particular problem domain. While other frameworks have the potential to provide similar advantages (“Ruby,” 2007), Drupal was

  16. Managing Digital Archives Using Open Source Software Tools

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barve, S.; Dongare, S.

    2007-10-01

    This paper describes the use of open source software tools such as MySQL and PHP for creating database-backed websites. Such websites offer many advantages over ones built from static HTML pages. This paper will discuss how OSS tools are used and their benefits, and after the successful implementation of these tools how the library took the initiative in implementing an institutional repository using DSpace open source software.

  17. For and from Cyberspace: Conceptualizing Cyber Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-12-01

    intelligence. Cyber ISR, there- fore, “requires the development of algorithms and visualizations capa- bilities to make activities in the cyber domain... Pentagon , 19 January 2012), https://www.intelink.gov/inteldocs/action.php?kt_path_info=ktcore.actions.docu- ment.view&fDocumentId=1517681, defines...selected proxy servers, with successive levels of encryption and then de- cryption, before delivery to their final destination as plain text. W. Earl

  18. Dynamic Personal Identity and the Dynamic Identity Grid: How Theory and Concept Can Transform Information into Knowledge and Secure the American Homeland

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-09-01

    Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches (Boston: Pearson, 2006), 1-592. 48 This project demanded the use of a primarily...enforcement practices. 200 Neuman, Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches, 152...www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/strucres.php (accessed July 12, 2008). 203 Neuman, Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches, 149. 204 Paul

  19. College or Training Programs: How to Decide. PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c115

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2006

    2006-01-01

    A high school diploma opens the door to many exciting new options. These might include a first full-time job, or part-time or full-time attendance at a technical school, community college, or university. Students might want to obtain a certificate, an associate degree, or a diploma. With so many choices, it can be a challenge to decide which path…

  20. Power-Hop: A Pervasive Observation for Real Complex Networks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-03-14

    found at: https:// github.com/kpelechrinis/powerhop. The web graph used was obtained from Yahoo ! under signing NDA and hence, cannot be made available...However, Yahoo ! is making available datasets to eligible organizations/entities through application to Webscope. In particular, the dataset used in...our study can be requested through the following URL: http:// webscope.sandbox.yahoo.com/catalog.php? datatype=g (G2 - Yahoo ! AltaVista Web Page

  1. What if Your Child IS the One Showing Bullying Behavior? PACER Center ACTion Information Sheets. PHP-c109

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    PACER Center, 2015

    2015-01-01

    The word "bullying" often conjures up an image of a schoolyard scene, with a big, intimidating student towering over a small, cowering child. However, that's just one of the many faces of children who bully. Another face of someone who bullies might be that of one's own child. Surprised? Many parents are. Often they have no idea that…

  2. The Evolving Relations of Japan and India

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-12-01

    Does it Affect Us?,” Malaysia Chronicle, December 22, 2013, http://www.malaysia- chronicle.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=201131:chinese... food industries” while Japan’s primary exports have been machinery components like boilers, marine products, jewels, and iron and steel.147 These areas...that time, Japan has been seeking alternative sources of rare earth metals, including India, Australia, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia with the intention of

  3. From Push to Pull: Barriers to MALSP Modernization

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-02-19

    for the Japanese business model Kaizen . According to Hudgik (n.d.), “ Kaizen was created in Japan following World War II. The word Kaizen means... Kaizen business model seeks to maximize efficiencies of the manufacturer or company and challenge personnel to identify ways to increase productivity and...What is kaizen ? Retrieved from http://www.graphicproducts.com/tutorials/ kaizen /index.php Jabin, J. M. (2009, June 1). Evaluating alternative

  4. Land Combat Systems Industry

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-01-01

    William Cole, US Army BG Mohammad Farghal, Jordanian Army Mr. Ron Foskey, Department of the Air Force Col John Gilmour, US Air Force LtCol Robert Glover ...Although Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld had in effect, sounded the death knell for the LCS main battle tank segment with his aggressive...News, April 24, 2007. Retrieved on April 25, 2007 from http://www.defensenews.com/ story.php?F=2709564&C= america 47 There are many other

  5. 76 FR 76689 - Cibola National Forest, Mount Taylor Ranger District, NM, Mount Taylor Combined Exploratory Drilling

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-12-08

    ... the drill pad would measure 4 by 20 feet and be approximately 5 feet deep. An estimated 1.45 acres of... the drill pad would measure 8 by 10 feet and be approximately 6 feet deep. An estimated 42.64 acres of... the proposal will be posted on the project Web site at http://www.fs.fed.us/nepa/nepa_project_exp.php...

  6. Supporting the Application of Design Patterns in Web-Course Design.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Frizell, Sherri S.; Hubscher, Roland

    Many instructors are expected to design and create Web courses. The design of Web courses can be a difficult task for educators who lack experience in interaction and instructional design. Design patterns have emerged as a way to capture design experience and present design solutions to novice designers. Design patterns are a widely accepted…

  7. Temperature control of microbial respiration and growth efficiency in the mesopelagic zone of the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mazuecos, Ignacio P.; Arístegui, Javier; Vázquez-Domínguez, Evaristo; Ortega-Retuerta, Eva; Gasol, Josep M.; Reche, Isabel

    2015-01-01

    We have measured both prokaryotic heterotrophic production (PHP) and respiration (R), then providing direct estimates of prokaryotic growth efficiencies (PGE), in the upper mesopelagic zone (300-600 m) of the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Our results show that in situ R ranged 3-fold, from 87 to 238 μmol C m-3 d-1. In situ PHP rates were much lower but also more variable than R (ranging from 0.3 to 9.1 μmol C m-3 d-1). The derived in situ PGE values were on average ~1.4% (from 0.3% to 3.7%), indicating that most of the organic substrates incorporated by prokaryotes were respired instead of being used for growth. Together with the few previous studies on PGE published before for the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, our findings support the hypothesis that the global mesopelagic zone represents a key remineralization site for export production in the open ocean. We also found a strong correlation between R and PGE with temperature across a gradient ranging from 8.7 to 14.9 °C. The derived Q10 value of 3.7 suggests that temperature variability in the mesopelagic zone plays a significant role in the remineralization of organic matter.

  8. How Health Department Contextual Factors Affect Public Health Preparedness (PHP) and Perceptions of the 15 PHP Capabilities

    PubMed Central

    Carbone, Eric G.; Lynch, Molly; Wang, Z. Joan; Jones, Terrance; Rose, Dale A.

    2017-01-01

    Objectives. To assess how health department contextual factors influence perceptions of the 15 Public Health Preparedness Capabilities, developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide guidance on organizing preparedness activities. Methods. We conducted an online survey and focus group between September 2015 and May 2016 with directors of preparedness programs in state, metropolitan, and territorial jurisdictions funded by CDC’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) cooperative agreement. The survey collected demographic information and data on contextual factors including leadership, partnerships, organizational structure, resources and structural capacity, and data and evaluation. Results. Seventy-seven percent (48 of 62) of PHEP directors completed the survey and 8 participated in the focus group. Respondents were experienced directors (mean = 10.6 years), and 58% led 7 or more emergency responses. Leadership, partnerships, and access to fiscal and human resources were associated with perception and use of the capabilities. Conclusions. Despite some deficiencies, PHEP awardees believe the capabilities provide useful guidance and a flexible framework for organizing their work. Contextual factors affect perceptions of the capabilities and possibly the effectiveness of their use. Public Health Implications. The capabilities can be used to address challenges in preparedness, including identifying evidence-based practices, developing performance measures, and improving responses. PMID:28892447

  9. EST Express: PHP/MySQL based automated annotation of ESTs from expression libraries

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Robin P; Buchser, William J; Lemmon, Marcus B; Pardinas, Jose R; Bixby, John L; Lemmon, Vance P

    2008-01-01

    Background Several biological techniques result in the acquisition of functional sets of cDNAs that must be sequenced and analyzed. The emergence of redundant databases such as UniGene and centralized annotation engines such as Entrez Gene has allowed the development of software that can analyze a great number of sequences in a matter of seconds. Results We have developed "EST Express", a suite of analytical tools that identify and annotate ESTs originating from specific mRNA populations. The software consists of a user-friendly GUI powered by PHP and MySQL that allows for online collaboration between researchers and continuity with UniGene, Entrez Gene and RefSeq. Two key features of the software include a novel, simplified Entrez Gene parser and tools to manage cDNA library sequencing projects. We have tested the software on a large data set (2,016 samples) produced by subtractive hybridization. Conclusion EST Express is an open-source, cross-platform web server application that imports sequences from cDNA libraries, such as those generated through subtractive hybridization or yeast two-hybrid screens. It then provides several layers of annotation based on Entrez Gene and RefSeq to allow the user to highlight useful genes and manage cDNA library projects. PMID:18402700

  10. Experimental investigation on thermal performance of a closed loop pulsating heat pipe (CLPHP) using methanol and distilled water at different filling ratios

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahman, Md. Lutfor; Swarna, Anindita Dhar; Ahmed, Syed Nasif Uddin; Perven, Sanjida; Ali, Mohammad

    2016-07-01

    Pulsating Heat Pipes, the new two-phase heat transfer devices, with no counter current flow between liquid and vapor have become a modern topic for research in the field of thermal management. This paper focuses on the performance of methanol and distilled water as working fluid in a closed loop pulsating heat pipe (CLPHP). This performances are compared in terms of thermal resistance, heat transfer co-efficient, and evaporator and condenser wall temperature with variable heat inputs. Methanol and Distilled water are selected for their lower surface tension, dynamic viscosity and sensible heat. A closed loop PHP made of copper with 2mm ID and 2.5mm OD having total 8 loops are supplied with power input varied from 10W to 60W. During the experiment the PHP is kept vertical, while the filling ratio (FR) is increased gradually from 40% to 70% with 10% increment. The optimum filling ratio for a minimum thermal resistance is found to be 60% and 40% for distilled water and methanol respectively and methanol is found to be the better working fluid compared to distilled water in terms of its lower thermal resistance and higher heat transfer coefficient.

  11. A combination of PhP typing and β-d-glucuronidase gene sequence variation analysis for differentiation of Escherichia coli from humans and animals.

    PubMed

    Masters, N; Christie, M; Katouli, M; Stratton, H

    2015-06-01

    We investigated the usefulness of the β-d-glucuronidase gene variance in Escherichia coli as a microbial source tracking tool using a novel algorithm for comparison of sequences from a prescreened set of host-specific isolates using a high-resolution PhP typing method. A total of 65 common biochemical phenotypes belonging to 318 E. coli strains isolated from humans and domestic and wild animals were analysed for nucleotide variations at 10 loci along a 518 bp fragment of the 1812 bp β-d-glucuronidase gene. Neighbour-joining analysis of loci variations revealed 86 (76.8%) human isolates and 91.2% of animal isolates were correctly identified. Pairwise hierarchical clustering improved assignment; where 92 (82.1%) human and 204 (99%) animal strains were assigned to their respective cluster. Our data show that initial typing of isolates and selection of common types from different hosts prior to analysis of the β-d-glucuronidase gene sequence improves source identification. We also concluded that numerical profiling of the nucleotide variations can be used as a valuable approach to differentiate human from animal E. coli. This study signifies the usefulness of the β-d-glucuronidase gene as a marker for differentiating human faecal pollution from animal sources.

  12. How Health Department Contextual Factors Affect Public Health Preparedness (PHP) and Perceptions of the 15 PHP Capabilities.

    PubMed

    Horney, Jennifer A; Carbone, Eric G; Lynch, Molly; Wang, Z Joan; Jones, Terrance; Rose, Dale A

    2017-09-01

    To assess how health department contextual factors influence perceptions of the 15 Public Health Preparedness Capabilities, developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide guidance on organizing preparedness activities. We conducted an online survey and focus group between September 2015 and May 2016 with directors of preparedness programs in state, metropolitan, and territorial jurisdictions funded by CDC's Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) cooperative agreement. The survey collected demographic information and data on contextual factors including leadership, partnerships, organizational structure, resources and structural capacity, and data and evaluation. Seventy-seven percent (48 of 62) of PHEP directors completed the survey and 8 participated in the focus group. Respondents were experienced directors (mean = 10.6 years), and 58% led 7 or more emergency responses. Leadership, partnerships, and access to fiscal and human resources were associated with perception and use of the capabilities. Despite some deficiencies, PHEP awardees believe the capabilities provide useful guidance and a flexible framework for organizing their work. Contextual factors affect perceptions of the capabilities and possibly the effectiveness of their use. Public Health Implications. The capabilities can be used to address challenges in preparedness, including identifying evidence-based practices, developing performance measures, and improving responses.

  13. EST Express: PHP/MySQL based automated annotation of ESTs from expression libraries.

    PubMed

    Smith, Robin P; Buchser, William J; Lemmon, Marcus B; Pardinas, Jose R; Bixby, John L; Lemmon, Vance P

    2008-04-10

    Several biological techniques result in the acquisition of functional sets of cDNAs that must be sequenced and analyzed. The emergence of redundant databases such as UniGene and centralized annotation engines such as Entrez Gene has allowed the development of software that can analyze a great number of sequences in a matter of seconds. We have developed "EST Express", a suite of analytical tools that identify and annotate ESTs originating from specific mRNA populations. The software consists of a user-friendly GUI powered by PHP and MySQL that allows for online collaboration between researchers and continuity with UniGene, Entrez Gene and RefSeq. Two key features of the software include a novel, simplified Entrez Gene parser and tools to manage cDNA library sequencing projects. We have tested the software on a large data set (2,016 samples) produced by subtractive hybridization. EST Express is an open-source, cross-platform web server application that imports sequences from cDNA libraries, such as those generated through subtractive hybridization or yeast two-hybrid screens. It then provides several layers of annotation based on Entrez Gene and RefSeq to allow the user to highlight useful genes and manage cDNA library projects.

  14. Expert system for skin problem consultation in Thai traditional medicine.

    PubMed

    Nopparatkiat, Pornchai; na Nagara, Byaporn; Chansa-ngavej, Chuvej

    2014-01-01

    This paper aimed to demonstrate the research and development of a rule-based expert system for skin problem consulting in the areas of acne, melasma, freckle, wrinkle, and uneven skin tone, with recommended treatments from Thai traditional medicine knowledge. The tool selected for developing the expert system is a software program written in the PHP language. MySQL database is used to work together with PHP for building database of the expert system. The system is web-based and can be reached from anywhere with Internet access. The developed expert system gave recommendations on the skin problem treatment with Thai herbal recipes and Thai herbal cosmetics based on 416 rules derived from primary and secondary sources. The system had been tested by 50 users consisting of dermatologists, Thai traditional medicine doctors, and general users. The developed system was considered good for learning and consultation. The present work showed how such a scattered body of traditional knowledge as Thai traditional medicine and herbal recipes could be collected, organised and made accessible to users and interested parties. The expert system developed herein should contribute in a meaningful way towards preserving the knowledge and helping promote the use of Thai traditional medicine as a practical alternative medicine for the treatment of illnesses.

  15. Use of Design Patterns According to Hand Dominance in a Mobile User Interface

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Al-Samarraie, Hosam; Ahmad, Yusof

    2016-01-01

    User interface (UI) design patterns for mobile applications provide a solution to design problems and can improve the usage experience for users. However, there is a lack of research categorizing the uses of design patterns according to users' hand dominance in a learning-based mobile UI. We classified the main design patterns for mobile…

  16. Design and Implementation of the CEBAF Element Database

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

    Theodore Larrieu, Christopher Slominski, Michele Joyce

    2011-10-01

    With inauguration of the CEBAF Element Database (CED) in Fall 2010, Jefferson Lab computer scientists have taken a first step toward the eventual goal of a model-driven accelerator. Once fully populated, the database will be the primary repository of information used for everything from generating lattice decks to booting front-end computers to building controls screens. A particular requirement influencing the CED design is that it must provide consistent access to not only present, but also future, and eventually past, configurations of the CEBAF accelerator. To accomplish this, an introspective database schema was designed that allows new elements, element types, andmore » element properties to be defined on-the-fly without changing table structure. When used in conjunction with the Oracle Workspace Manager, it allows users to seamlessly query data from any time in the database history with the exact same tools as they use for querying the present configuration. Users can also check-out workspaces and use them as staging areas for upcoming machine configurations. All Access to the CED is through a well-documented API that is translated automatically from original C++ into native libraries for script languages such as perl, php, and TCL making access to the CED easy and ubiquitous. Notice: Authored by Jefferson Science Associates, LLC under U.S. DOE Contract No. DE-AC05-06OR23177. The U.S. Government retains a non-exclusive, paid-up, irrevocable, world-wide license to publish or reproduce this manuscript for U.S. Government purposes.« less

  17. Heat waves in Senegal : detection, characterization and associated processes.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gnacoussa Sambou, Marie Jeanne; Janicot, Serge; Badiane, Daouda; Pohl, Benjamin; Dieng, Abdou L.; Gaye, Amadou T.

    2017-04-01

    Atmospheric configuration and synoptic evolution of patterns associated with Senegalese heat wave (HW) are examined on the period 1979-2014 using the Global Surface Summary of the Day (GSOD) observational database and ERA-Interim reanalysis. Since there is no objective and uniform definition of HW events, threshold methods based on atmospheric variables as daily maximum (Tmax) / minimum (Tmin) temperatures and daily mean apparent temperature (AT) are used to define HW threshold detection. Each criterion is related to a specific category of HW events: Tmax (warm day events), Tmin (warm night events) and AT (combining temperature and moisture). These definitions are used in order to characterize as well as possible the warm events over the Senegalese regions (oceanic versus continental region). Statistics on time evolution and spatial distribution of warm events are carried out over the 2 seasons of maximum temperature (March-May and October-November). For each season, a composite of HW events, as well as the most extended event over Senegal (as a case study) are analyzed using usual atmospheric fields (sea level pressure, geopotential height, total column water content, wind components, 2m temperature). This study is part of the project ACASIS (https://acasis.locean-ipsl.upmc.fr/doku.php) on heat waves occurrences over the Sahel and their impact on health. Keywords: heat wave, Senegal, ACASIS.

  18. Interactions of double patterning technology with wafer processing, OPC and design flows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lucas, Kevin; Cork, Chris; Miloslavsky, Alex; Luk-Pat, Gerry; Barnes, Levi; Hapli, John; Lewellen, John; Rollins, Greg; Wiaux, Vincent; Verhaegen, Staf

    2008-03-01

    Double patterning technology (DPT) is one of the main options for printing logic devices with half-pitch less than 45nm; and flash and DRAM memory devices with half-pitch less than 40nm. DPT methods decompose the original design intent into two individual masking layers which are each patterned using single exposures and existing 193nm lithography tools. The results of the individual patterning layers combine to re-create the design intent pattern on the wafer. In this paper we study interactions of DPT with lithography, masks synthesis and physical design flows. Double exposure and etch patterning steps create complexity for both process and design flows. DPT decomposition is a critical software step which will be performed in physical design and also in mask synthesis. Decomposition includes cutting (splitting) of original design intent polygons into multiple polygons where required; and coloring of the resulting polygons. We evaluate the ability to meet key physical design goals such as: reduce circuit area; minimize rework; ensure DPT compliance; guarantee patterning robustness on individual layer targets; ensure symmetric wafer results; and create uniform wafer density for the individual patterning layers.

  19. Oasis: online analysis of small RNA deep sequencing data.

    PubMed

    Capece, Vincenzo; Garcia Vizcaino, Julio C; Vidal, Ramon; Rahman, Raza-Ur; Pena Centeno, Tonatiuh; Shomroni, Orr; Suberviola, Irantzu; Fischer, Andre; Bonn, Stefan

    2015-07-01

    Oasis is a web application that allows for the fast and flexible online analysis of small-RNA-seq (sRNA-seq) data. It was designed for the end user in the lab, providing an easy-to-use web frontend including video tutorials, demo data and best practice step-by-step guidelines on how to analyze sRNA-seq data. Oasis' exclusive selling points are a differential expression module that allows for the multivariate analysis of samples, a classification module for robust biomarker detection and an advanced programming interface that supports the batch submission of jobs. Both modules include the analysis of novel miRNAs, miRNA targets and functional analyses including GO and pathway enrichment. Oasis generates downloadable interactive web reports for easy visualization, exploration and analysis of data on a local system. Finally, Oasis' modular workflow enables for the rapid (re-) analysis of data. Oasis is implemented in Python, R, Java, PHP, C++ and JavaScript. It is freely available at http://oasis.dzne.de. stefan.bonn@dzne.de Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press.

  20. ActionMap: A web-based software that automates loci assignments to framework maps.

    PubMed

    Albini, Guillaume; Falque, Matthieu; Joets, Johann

    2003-07-01

    Genetic linkage computation may be a repetitive and time consuming task, especially when numerous loci are assigned to a framework map. We thus developed ActionMap, a web-based software that automates genetic mapping on a fixed framework map without adding the new markers to the map. Using this tool, hundreds of loci may be automatically assigned to the framework in a single process. ActionMap was initially developed to map numerous ESTs with a small plant mapping population and is limited to inbred lines and backcrosses. ActionMap is highly configurable and consists of Perl and PHP scripts that automate command steps for the MapMaker program. A set of web forms were designed for data import and mapping settings. Results of automatic mapping can be displayed as tables or drawings of maps and may be exported. The user may create personal access-restricted projects to store raw data, settings and mapping results. All data may be edited, updated or deleted. ActionMap may be used either online or downloaded for free (http://moulon.inra.fr/~bioinfo/).

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