Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Depressive symptoms in the early course of schizophrenia: relationship to familial psychiatric illness.

OBJECTIVE This study examined the relation between the presence of depressive symptoms in schizophrenic patients with a recent first psychotic episode and affective disorders among their relatives. METHOD Data on depressive symptoms in 70 patients with schizophrenia diagnosed according to the DSM-III-R criteria, who had had a recent first psychotic episode, and psychiatric diagnostic information on 293 of their first-degree and 674 of their second-degree relatives were collected. Depressive symptoms in the schizophrenic probands were examined at the index psychotic episode (at study entry) and systematically over a 1-year follow-through period. The majority of first-degree family members were interviewed in person with the use of semistructured diagnostic interviews. RESULTS The linear regression findings confirmed the hypothesis that depressive symptoms in the early course of schizophrenia are associated with a family history of unipolar affective illness. CONCLUSIONS Because depression in the patients was associated with a family history of depression, this suggests that depression in schizophrenia is not solely either a reaction to having had a psychotic episode or part of the recovery process. The findings are consistent with a model in which a familial genetic liability to affective disorder, when present, is viewed a s exerting a modifying influence on the patient's schizophrenic illness to increase expression of depressive symptoms.
Time Course of Trunk, Arm, Leg, and Functional Recovery After Ischemic Stroke

Background. Patterns of recovery provide useful information concerning the potential of physical recovery over time and therefore the setting of realistic goals for rehabilitation programs. Objective. To compare the time course of trunk recovery with the patterns of recovery of arm, leg, and functional ability. Methods . Consecutive stroke patients were recruited in 2 acute neurology wards. Participants were evaluated at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 and 6 months after stroke. Patients were assessed with the Trunk Impairment Scale, Fugl-Meyer arm and leg test, and Barthel Index. Results. Thirty-two patients were included in the study. There were no dropouts. Repeated measures analysis of the recovery patterns of motor and functional performance revealed the most striking improvement for all measures from 1 week to 1 month (P value between .0021 and <.0001) and a significant improvement from 1 month to 3 months after stroke (P value ranges from .0008 to <.0001). No significant improvement was found between 3 and 6 months after stroke for any of the measures. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between time course of trunk, arm, leg, and functional recovery (P = .2565). No significant differences in level of motor and functional recovery were found at the different time points. Conclusions. Separate analyses of motor and functional recovery patterns after stroke confirm the importance of the first month for recovery. Contrary to common belief, the time course of recovery of the trunk is similar to the recovery of arm, leg, and functional ability.
Implementing EU public policy

Book synopsis: This innovative and lively book draws upon recent and ongoing research on the EU policy process and utilizes theoretical concepts from both international relations and public policy studies. The contributors are some of the best-known writers on European politics and policy making. Their contributions offer accessible and stimulating introductions to the key institutions of the EU, providing the reader with a detailed knowledge of how policy is made and implemented.
Photonic crystal waveguide design: A didactic microwave approach

The electromagnetic scale invariance rule was used to study photonic crystal waveguides in microwave frequencies. This pedagogical approach permits a hands-on experience for students and researchers on a complex subject, a kind of experimental implementation that usually demands sophisticated photonic fabrication resources. The microwave approach allows one to construct conceptually equivalent but hand-manipulable prototypes. Triangular photonic crystal waveguides, with and without bends, were designed and constructed, and measured and computer-simulated results were compared.
A new tubulin-binding site and pharmacophore for microtubule-destabilizing anticancer drugs

Significance Microtubules are dynamic protein filaments assembled from tubulin subunits, which play a key role for cell division. Ligands that target microtubules and affect their dynamics belong to the most successful classes of chemotherapeutic drugs against cancer by inhibiting cell proliferation. Here we have analyzed three structurally unrelated drugs that destabilize microtubules, using X-ray crystallography. The data reveal a new tubulin-binding site for these drugs, which renders their mechanism of action distinct from that of other types of microtubule assembly inhibitors. Similar key interactions with tubulin are observed for all three ligands, thus defining a common pharmacophore. Our results offer an opportunity for the rational design of potent tubulin modulators for the development of more efficient cancer therapies. The recent success of antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) in the treatment of cancer has led to a revived interest in microtubule-destabilizing agents. Here, we determined the high-resolution crystal structure of the complex between tubulin and maytansine, which is part of an ADC that is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced breast cancer. We found that the drug binds to a site on β-tubulin that is distinct from the vinca domain and that blocks the formation of longitudinal tubulin interactions in microtubules. We also solved crystal structures of tubulin in complex with both a variant of rhizoxin and the phase 1 drug PM060184. Consistent with biochemical and mutagenesis data, we found that the two compounds bound to the same site as maytansine and that the structures revealed a common pharmacophore for the three ligands. Our results delineate a distinct molecular mechanism of action for the inhibition of microtubule assembly by clinically relevant agents. They further provide a structural basis for the rational design of potent microtubule-destabilizing agents, thus opening opportunities for the development of next-generation ADCs for the treatment of cancer.
The first high frequency of recombination-like conjugal transfer from an integrated origin of transfer sequence in Bacillus subtilis 168

Abstract Bacillus subtilis 168 was developed as a genome vector to manipulate large DNA fragments. The system is based on the inherent natural transformation (TF) activity. However, DNA size transferred by TF is limited up to approximately 100 kb. A conjugal transfer system capable of transferring DNA fragments considerably larger than those transferred by TF was developed. A well-defined oriT110 sequence and a cognate relaxase gene from the pUB110 plasmid were inserted into the xkdE gene of the B. subtilis genome. Transfer of antibiotic resistance markers distant from the oriT110 locus to the recipient B. subtilis occurred only in the presence of pLS20, a helper plasmid that provides a type IV secretion system. Marker transmission was consistent with the orientation of oriT110 and required a recA-proficient recipient. The first conjugal transfer system of genomic DNA should provide a valuable alternative genetic tool for editing the B. subtilis genome. The first conjugal system to transfer the Bacillus subtilis genome like an Hfr mechanism. A conjugal plasmid pLS20 makes the genome-integrated oriT active.
Thoracoabdominal Aneurysm Repair: Results With 337 Operations Performed Over a 15-Year Interval

ObjectiveTo review perioperative results and late survival after thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair (TAA), in particular to assess the impact over time of epidural cooling (EC) on spinal cord ischemic complications (SCI). Summary Background DataA variety of operative approaches and protective adjuncts have been used in TAA to minimize the major complications of perioperative death and SCI. There is no consensus with respect to the optimal approach. MethodsFrom January 1987 to November 2001, 337 consecutive TAA repairs were performed by a single surgeon. Clinical features included prior aortic grafts in 97 (28.8%) and emergent operation in 82 (24.6%), including rupture in 46 (13.6%) and dissection in 63 (19%). Operative management consisted of a clamp/sew technique with adjuncts in 93%. EC (since July 1993) to prevent SCI was used in 194 (57.6%) repairs. Variables associated with the end points of operative mortality and postoperative SCI were assessed with the Fisher exact test and logistic regression; late survival was estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method. ResultsOperative mortality was 8.3% and was associated with nonelective operation, intraoperative hypotension, total transfusion requirement, and the postoperative complications of paraplegia, renal failure, and pulmonary insufficiency. Postoperative renal failure and transfusion requirement were independent correlates of mortality. SCI of any severity occurred in 38 of 334 (11.4%) operative survivors, with 22/38 (6.6% of cohort) sustaining total paraplegia. EC reduced the risk of SCI in patients with types I–III TAA (10.6% vs. 19.8%, P = .04). Independent correlates of SCI over the entire study interval included types I/II TAA, rupture, cross-clamp duration, sacrifice of T9–L1 intercostal vessels, and intraoperative hypotension. Late survival rates at 2 and 5 years were 81.2 ± 3% and 67.2 ± 5%. ConclusionsEC has decreased the risk of SCI after TAA repair. Decreasing the substantial proportion (nearly 25%) of patients requiring nonelective operation will improve results. Late survival is equal to that after routine AAA repair, indicating that the considerable resource expenditure required for TAA repair is worthwhile.
Electronic commerce contribution to the SME performance in manufacturing firms: A structural equation model

The role Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) play in achieving a better organizational performance still needs further analysis among small and medium sized enterprises (SME) from developing countries. This study aims to extend the empirical literature on the relationship between ICT, electronic commerce and SME performance in developing countries. To achieve this goal, we employ a sample of 87 manufacturing firms from the city of Bahía Blanca, Argentina in the year 2015. By estimating a structural equation model, we obtain that electronic commerce adoption has a positive and significant influence on SME sales which is reinforced by the level of ICT use. Other organizational factors such as firm size and public programs explain performance, but are not significant predictors of the electronic commerce adoption.
Responsibility of corporations: organisational values, formal norms and managerial competencies

A generic cultural socio-cognitive theory of a plural agency is developed, which includes 'responsibility'. Interaction between social viable systems, i.e., normative personalities, is modelled. The general definitions of the terms 'responsible' and 'responsibility' imply that there is an action-outcome-consequence relation. Consequently, for modelling cybernetic systems there is need to address issues related to: reasons for action, actual actions taken, outcomes, observation of outcomes, assessment of outcomes, reconsideration and perhaps modification of earlier action. All action has outcomes: a direct effect (performance), side effects, and effects on other agencies. Thus, there is need to integrate into social viable systems models: 1) mutual interdependencies; 2) issues related to dependence on resources; 3) competition for resources; 4) impact on other's resources. The theory will provide guidance for analysis of interaction effects between agencies within their resource environments.
Preterm Preeclampsia with Severe Features: Composite Maternal and Neonatal Morbidities Associated with Fetal Growth Restriction

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to compare adverse pregnancy outcomes between fetuses with estimated fetal weight (EFW) < 10 to > 10% in women with preterm preeclampsia (PE) with severe features. Materials and Methods All women with preterm PE with severe features and nonanomalous singletons with EFW were identified at a tertiary center. Women with oligohydramnios or absent/reversed umbilical Doppler velocimetry were excluded. Using multivariable analysis, we compared the composite maternal and neonatal morbidities (CMM and CNM) between those with appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetal growth, defined as EFW at 10 to 90th versus those with fetal growth restriction (FGR), defined as EFW < 10th percentile for gestational age (GA). Results In this study, 165 patients were included; 112 had EFW at 10th to 90th percentile, and 53 had FGR. Of the 53 with FGR, 33 (62%) had EFW at 5 to 9% for GA and 20 (38%) had EFW < fifth percentile for GA. The CMM was significantly higher among women with FGR versus AGA (29 vs. 7%; p < 0.001). The CNM was significantly higher with FGR versus AGA (20 vs. 6%; p = 0.01). Conclusion Women with preterm PE with severe features and FGR, when compared with those with AGA, have significantly higher risk of CMM and CNM.
Clinical description of a patient carrying the smallest reported deletion involving 10p14 region

Haploinsufficiency of a region located distal to 10p14 designated HDR1, is responsible for hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural deafness, and renal anomalies (HDR syndrome). Haploinsufficiency of a more proximal region, located on 10p13‐10p14, designated as DGCR2 is associated with congenital heart defects and thymus hypoplasia/aplasia or T cell defect. We describe a patient showing facial dysmorphisms, delayed psychomotor development and bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and carrying a 10p14 deletion, the smallest deletion found in the literature so far. Our patient, carrying a partial deletion of the DGCR2 region and of the HDR1 region, including the GATA3 gene, showed, unexpectedly, only few of the clinical features of DiGeorge 2 syndrome (psychomotor retardation, palpebral ptosis, epicanthic folds, anteverted nares, cryptorchidism, hand/foot abnormalities) and did not show other typical signs, such as cardiac defect, cleft palate, and abnormal T cell levels. Of the three characteristic features of the HDR syndrome, our patient had only sensorineural deafness. On the basis of the revision of the other cases reported in the literature with a deletion including the 10p14 region, we suggest that GATA3 haploinsufficiency, although not recorded for each patient, is responsible for deafness. The present case shows that even this small 10p deletion is responsible for a specific phenotype. We also underline the importance of CGH‐array, in order to obtain a more precise physical mapping of the 10p deletions and an accurate genotype–phenotype correlation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of GPU/CPU co-processing models for JPEG 2000 packetization

With the bottom-line goal of increasing the throughput of a GPU-accelerated JPEG 2000 encoder, this paper evaluates whether the post-compression rate control and packetization routines should be carried out on the CPU or on the GPU. Three co-processing models that differ in how the workload is split among the CPU and GPU are introduced. Both routines are discussed and algorithms for executing them in parallel are presented. Experimental results for compressing a detail-rich UHD sequence to 4 bits/sample indicate speed-ups of 200× for the rate control and 100× for the packetization compared to the single-threaded implementation in the commercial Kakadu library. These two routines executed on the CPU take 4× as long as all remaining coding steps on the GPU and therefore present a bottleneck. Even if the CPU bottleneck could be avoided with multi-threading, it is still beneficial to execute all coding steps on the GPU as this minimizes the required device-to-host transfer and thereby speeds up the critical path from 17.2 fps to 19.5 fps for 4 bits/sample and to 22.4 fps for 0.16 bits/sample.
Repeatability of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Prospective Assessment in 2 Multicenter Trials

PET/CT with the glucose analog 18F-FDG has several potential applications for monitoring tumor response to therapy in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A prerequisite for many of these applications is detailed knowledge of the repeatability of quantitative parameters derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT studies. Methods: The repeatability of the 18F-FDG signal was evaluated in 2 prospective multicenter trials. Patients with advanced NSCLC (tumor stage III–IV) underwent two 18F-FDG PET/CT studies while not receiving therapy. Tumor 18F-FDG uptake was quantified by measurement of the maximum standardized uptake value within a lesion (SUVmax) and the average SUV within a small volume of interest around the site of maximum uptake (SUVpeak). Analysis was performed for the lesion in the chest with the highest 18F-FDG uptake and a size of at least 2 cm (target lesion) as well as for up to 6 additional lesions per patient. Repeatability was assessed by Bland–Altman plots and calculation of 95% repeatability coefficients (RCs) of the log-transformed SUV differences. Results: Test–retest repeatability was assessed in 74 patients (34 from the ACRIN 6678 trial and 40 from the Merck MK-0646-008 trial). SUVpeak was 11.57 ± 7.89 g/mL for the ACRIN trial and 6.89 ± 3.02 for the Merck trial. The lower and upper RCs were −28% (95% confidence interval [CI], −35% to −23%) and +39% (95% CI, 31% to 54%) in the ACRIN trial, indicating that a decrease of SUVpeak by more than 28% or an increase by more than 39% has a probability of less than 2.5%. The corresponding RCs from the Merck trial were −35% (95% CI, −42% to −29%) and +53% (95% CI, 41% to 72%). Repeatability was similar for SUVmax of the target lesion, averaged SUVmax, and averaged SUVpeak of up to 6 lesions per patient. Conclusion: The variability of repeated measurements of tumor 18F-FDG uptake in patients with NSCLC is somewhat larger than previously reported in smaller single-center studies but comparable to that of gastrointestinal malignancies in a previous multicenter trial. The variability of measurements supports the definitions of tumor response according to PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumors.
Identification of Cells Expressing Cx43, Cx30, Cx26, Cx32 and Cx36 in Gap Junctions of Rat Brain and Spinal Cord

We have identified cells expressing Cx26, Cx30, Cx32, Cx36 and Cx43 in gap junctions of rat central nervous system (CNS) using confocal light microscopic immunocytochemistry and freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling (FRIL). Confocal microscopy was used to assess general distributions of connexins, whereas the 100-fold higher resolution of FRIL allowed co-localization of several different connexins within individual ultrastructurally-defined gap junction plaques in ultrastructurally and immunologically identified cell types. In >4000 labeled gap junctions found in >370 FRIL replicas of gray matter in adult rats, Cx26, Cx30 and Cx43 were found only in astrocyte gap junctions; Cx32 was only in oligodendrocytes, and Cx36 was only in neurons. Moreover, Cx26, Cx30 and Cx43 were co-localized in most astrocyte gap junctions. Oligodendrocytes shared intercellular gap junctions only with astrocytes, and these heterologous junctions had Cx32 on the oligodendrocyte side and Cx26, Cx30 and Cx43 on the astrocyte side. In 4 and 18 day postnatal rat spinal cord, neuronal gap junctions contained Cx36, whereas Cx26 was present in leptomenigeal gap junctions. Thus, in adult rat CNS, neurons and glia express different connexins, with “permissive” connexin pairing combinations apparently defining separate pathways for neuronal vs. glial gap junctional communication.
Airway Remodeling in Asthma and Irreversible Airflow Limitation -ECM Deposition in Airway and Possible Therapy for Remodeling.

Airway remodeling in asthma is characterized by goblet cell hyperplasia, subepithelial fibrosis, and hyperplasia and hypertrophy of airway smooth muscle cells. The airway wall thickness increases because of subepithelial fibrosis, and hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the airway smooth muscle cells and submucosal glands. Airway remodeling, therefore, can often cause irreversible airflow limitation and an increase of airway hyperresponsiveness. Recent studies have described the molecular and cellular mechanisms of collagen deposition in the airway wall such as subepithelial fibrosis. Fibroblasts or myofibroblasts play a critical role in the exaggerated deposition of collagen in asthmatic airways. Bone marrow derived fibroblasts may play a role in fibrotic remodeling in asthmatic airways. Airway remodeling is induced by cytokines and mediators produced in chronic allergic airway inflammation. Since, once formed, remodeling is resistant to asthma therapy, early intervention with inhaled corticosteroid should be considered to prevent the progress of airway remodeling.
Corrigendum: The North Atlantic-Eurasian teleconnection in summer and its effects on Eurasian climates (2018 Environ. Res. Lett. 13 024007)

A teleconnection between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Eurasian continent is suggested by statistical and dynamical analysis of the northern summer 500 hPa geopotential height ﬁeld. This teleconnection, termed the Atlantic–Eurasian (AEA) teleconnection, has ﬁve centers of action, in the subtropical North Atlantic Ocean, northeastern North Atlantic Ocean, Eastern Europe, the Kara Sea, and north China. The AEA index (AEAI) shows that the AEA undergoes a high degree of variability from year to year, and the AEAI has an increasing trend over the last 30 years. Our results suggest that this phenomenon is a large-scale Rossby wave train that originates in the subtropical North Atlantic Ocean. We support this conclusion by the methods of stationary wave ray tracing in non-uniform horizontal basic ﬂow, wave
Budget Sustainability of Municipalities and Local Government Units - the Czech Republic Study

Public economics examines the influence of the state on economic equality and efficiency, and on conduction of business entities in connection with the various tax systems and individual behavior in private consumption. To manage the public economy is thorough knowledge of the real decision-making and allocation mechanisms. From a budgetary perspective, the public economy in the Czech Republic is characterized mainly by the state budget, 6,249 municipal budgets and 14 budgets of local government units. These all units are together subject to annual statutory audit, which mainly represents the analysis of the system of the Audit informative and monitoring indicators (ASIMI). The paper analyzes the outcome of the audit with the use of absolute and relative indicators and suggests possible changes and consolidation of municipal and local government budgets in the Czech Republic.