cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Emotion acceptance behavior therapy for anorexia nervosa: A pilot study

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of Emotion Acceptance Behavior Therapy (EABT), an outpatient psychotherapeutic intervention for anorexia nervosa (AN) based on a disorder-specific model of symptom maintenance that emphasizes emotion avoidance. EABT combines standard behavioral interventions that are central to the clinical management of AN with evidence-supported strategies to increase emotion awareness, decrease emotion avoidance, and encourage resumption of valued activities and relationships outside the eating disorder. Method Twenty-four individuals aged ≥17 years with AN were treated using the EABT manual. EABT was delivered in 33–58 individual sessions provided over 38–53 weeks. Assessments were conducted before and after treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Results Thirteen patients (54.2%) completed EABT; 11 (45.8%) dropped out or were withdrawn. EABT was associated with significant improvements in weight, disordered eating symptoms, and emotion avoidance that were maintained over 6-month follow-up. The majority of EABT completers achieved a body mass index >18.5 (n = 9/13) or had a normal Eating Disorder Examination Global score (n = 10/13) at post-treatment. Discussion Preliminary data suggest that EABT may have utility for a subset of adults with AN. Future research will focus on improving outcomes in EABT nonresponders and identifying of mechanisms that drive treatment response. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:870–873)
Sparse array aperture extension with dual-size spatial invariances for ESPRIT-based direction finding

A novel sparse array geometry embedding two sizes of spatial invariances is proposed for array aperture extension using a new ESPRIT-based algorithm. This novel direction finding method extends array aperture without additional antennas, irregular inter-element spacings, nor any cyclic ambiguity in the final arrival angle estimates. The half-wavelength invariance yields unambiguous but high-variance DOA estimates to disambiguate low-variance but cyclically ambiguous estimates obtained using the larger invariance. Under one simulation scenario with two close emitters, the proposed algorithm offers an astounding two orders of magnitude improvement in estimation standard deviation and bias and 50 dB reduction in resolution threshold, relative to a customary half-wavelength array of comparable hardware and software complexity. Any additional computation needed by this method may be performed in parallel, thereby requiring no serious increase in overall computational time.
Osteoprotegerin in pregnant adolescents differs by race and is related to infant birth weight z -score

Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is involved in the regulation of bone turnover, but little is known about this protein during pregnancy or among neonates. We undertook a prospective longitudinal study to identify relationships between OPG, markers of bone turnover and birth outcomes in 155 pregnant adolescents (13–18 years) and their newborns. Maternal blood samples were collected at mid-gestation and at delivery. Cord blood was obtained at delivery. Serum OPG, estradiol and markers of bone formation (osteocalcin) and resorption (N-telopeptide) were assessed in all samples. Placental OPG expression was assessed in placental tissue obtained at delivery. Bone markers and OPG increased significantly from mid-gestation (26.0 ± 3.4 weeks) to delivery (39.3 ± 2.6 weeks). Neonatal OPG was significantly lower, but bone turnover markers were significantly higher than maternal values at mid-gestation and at parturition (P < 0.001). African-American adolescents had higher concentrations of OPG than Caucasian adolescents at mid-gestation (P = 0.01) and delivery (P = 0.04). Gestational age and estradiol were also predictors of maternal OPG at mid-gestation and delivery. OPG concentrations in cord blood were correlated with maternal OPG concentrations and were negatively associated with infant birth weight z-score (P = 0.02) and ponderal index (P = 0.02). In conclusion, maternal OPG concentrations increased across gestation and were significantly higher than neonatal OPG concentrations. Maternal and neonatal OPG concentrations were not associated with markers of bone turnover or placental OPG expression, but neonatal OPG was inversely associated with neonatal anthropometric measures. Additional research is needed to identify roles of OPG during pregnancy.
Compartmental Modeling of 11C-HOMADAM Binding to the Serotonin Transporter in the Healthy Human Brain

The novel PET radioligand 11C-N,N-dimethyl-2-(2′-amino-4′-hydroxymethylphenylthio)benzylamine (11C-HOMADAM) binds with high affinity and selectively to the serotonin transporter (SERT). The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable kinetic model to describe the uptake of 11C-HOMADAM in the healthy human brain. Methods: Eight volunteers participated in the study; 5 of them were fitted with arterial catheters for blood sampling and all were scanned on a high-resolution research tomograph after the injection of 11C-HOMADAM. Regional distribution volumes and binding potentials were calculated with 2- and 4-parameter arterial-input compartment models, a 3-parameter reference tissue compartment model, and the Logan graphic approach. Results: The 2-parameter arterial-input compartment model was statistically superior to the 4-parameter model and described all brain regions. Calculated binding potentials agreed well between the arterial-input model and the reference tissue model when the cerebellum was used as the reference tissue. The Logan graphic approach was not able to estimate the higher concentration of SERT in the dorsal raphe than in the midbrain. Conclusion:11C-HOMADAM is a highly promising radioligand with high ratios of specific binding to nonspecific binding in known SERT-rich structures, such as the raphe nuclei. The 3-parameter reference tissue model approach permits a simplified quantitatively accurate method for estimating SERT binding potentials.
Heart and combined heart-kidney transplantation in patients with concomitant renal insufficiency and end-stage heart failure

In patients with end-stage heart failure (ESHF) who are candidates for isolated heart transplant (HRT), dialysis dependence (DD) is considered an indication for combined heart-kidney transplantation (HKT). HKT remains controversial in ESHF transplant candidates with nondialysis-dependent renal insufficiency (NDDRI). Using United Network for Organ Sharing data, we examined the cumulative incidences of transplant and mortality in patients with DD and NDDRI waitlisted for HKT or HRT. In all groups, 3-month waitlist mortality was dismal: 31% and 21% for HRT- and HKT-listed patients with DD and 12% and 7% for HRT- and HKT-listed patients with NDDRI. Five-year posttransplant survival was improved in HKT recipients compared with HRT recipients for both patients with DD (73% vs. 51%, p<0.001) and NDDRI (80% vs. 69%, p<0.001). Likewise, multivariable analysis associated HKT with better outcomes than HRT in HKT-listed patients, although both improved survival. These data argue strongly for HKT in ESHF transplant candidates with DD. However, in patients with NDDRI, HKT must be weighed against the possibility of renal recovery with isolated HRT. Whether HRT (followed by a staged kidney transplant in patients who do not recover renal function after HRT), as opposed to HKT, maximizes organ benefit for patients with NDDRI and ESHF requires assessment. Nevertheless, given their dismal waitlist outcomes and excellent posttransplant results, we suggest that patients with DD and NDDRI with ESHF be considered for early listing and transplant.
Disperser- vs. Establishment-Limited Distribution of a Riparian Fig Tree (Ficus insipida) in a Costa Rican Tropical Rain Forest1

Studies were conducted at the La Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica and in a greenhouse in California to determine the factors accounting for the nonrandom distribution of the riparian fig tree Ficus insipida Willd. along streams in the La Selva Biological Reserve and adjacent deforested lands. We also evaluated the potential seed dispersers of this tree relative to the role of the fruit-eating fish Brycon guatemalensis that previously was proposed to be an important disperser of F. insipida seeds in this system. At La Selva, we recorded the fig-foraging activities of vertebrates at fruiting F. insipida trees, surveyed for the presence or absence of F. insipida along streams of different sizes, and determined the fate of fig seedlings transplanted in different riparian habitats. In the greenhouse, we measured seed germination and seedling survival and growth under different light and soil pH conditions mimicking natural conditions. The findings provided evidence that (1) the tree occurs along the larger streams running through forest habitat and only along smaller streams with relatively high light availability; (2) bats (Artibeus spp.) and fish are the major dispersers of F. insipida seeds; (3) the seedlings are subject to mortality not only from low light conditions but also from treefalls, frequent flooding, and bank erosion; and (4) high light levels and near neutral soil pH result in relatively better seed germination, faster growth, and higher survival rates of seedlings. Overall, our results suggest that this fig tree is dispersed mainly by bats and fish and is more establishment-limited than disperser-limited in its local distribution in the La Selva rain forest habitat.
Relativistic Contributions to Transition Energies in NiI and CuI Isoelectronic Sequences

Since the compilation of Moore,1 the NiI isoelectronic sequence has been studied up to Z=42 by Alexander et al. and for Z=62, 64, and 66 by Burkhalter et al. Only electric dipole decays were observed. Measurement of transition energies for 3d94f → 3d10 and 3d94p → 3d10 lines as high as Z=66 allows one to construct formulae for interpolating with rather good confidence to energies in the NiI sequence for intermediate Z. No detailed equivalent information appears to be available for the 3d94s → 3d10 quadrupole decays for Z above 33. Cocke et al.2 have reported recently the M-x-ray spectra from foil-excited iodine beams. The electric quadrupole 4s → 3d and the electric dipole 4p → 3d transitions of multiply-ionized iodine were studied in the NiI, CuI and ZnI isoelectronic sequences. The relativistic contributions to the transition energies were found to be significant in the identification of the experimental spectra.
Multi-sensor area coverage analysis for aspect-dependent targets

This research investigates sensor area coverage analysis techniques for multiple sensors in applications where the probability of detection (P d ) is a function of aspect as well as range. This is particularly appropriate for mine countermeasure (MCM) applications where many targets have asymmetric geometries and unknown orientations, poses, scour depths, etc. This research articulates two fundamental theoretical limitations in traditional area coverage analysis. First, that sensor performance is aspect independent. And second, that the target orientations observed by the search sensors are independent and uniformly distributed. Using hypothetical sensor performance, simulated MCM search scenarios clearly expose these limitations. The simulations compare the results using the new aspectdependent techniques to those using the non-aspect-dependent techniques. By properly accounting for aspect-dependent performance, overall mission performance can be increased with no additional cost. The results of this research form a critical piece of requisite understanding towards advancing the Navy's vision of cooperative and adaptive mission execution with multiple autonomous vehicles.
Safe and Reliable Use of Concurrency in Multi-Threaded Shared-Memory Systems

The safe and reliable use of concurrency in multi-threaded systems has emerged as a fundamental engineering concern. We recently developed a model of synchronization contracts to address this concern in programs written in object-oriented languages. Programs written using our model comprise modules that declare access requirements in module interfaces in lieu of using low-level synchronization primitives in module implementations. At run time, these contracts are negotiated to derive schedules that guarantee freedom from data races while avoiding a large class of deadlock situations
Controlling Brownian motion of single protein molecules and single fluorophores in aqueous buffer

We present an Anti-Brownian Electrokinetic trap (ABEL trap) capable of trapping individual fluorescently labeled protein molecules in aqueous buffer. The ABEL trap operates by tracking the Brownian motion of a single fluorescent particle in solution, and applying a time-dependent electric field designed to induce an electrokinetic drift that cancels the Brownian motion. The trapping strength of the ABEL trap is limited by the latency of the feedback loop. In previous versions of the trap, this latency was set by the finite frame rate of the camera used for video-tracking. In the present system, the motion of the particle is tracked entirely in hardware (without a camera or image-processing software) using a rapidly rotating laser focus and lock-in detection. The feedback latency is set by the finite rate of arrival of photons. We demonstrate trapping of individual molecules of the protein GroEL in buffer, and we show confinement of single fluorophores of the dye Cy3 in water.
Human ALKBH7 is required for alkylation and oxidation-induced programmed necrosis

Programmed necrosis has emerged as a crucial modulator of cell death in response to several forms of cellular stress. In one form of programmed necrotic cell death, induced by cytotoxic alkylating agents, hyperactivation of poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) leads to cellular NAD and ATP depletion, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species formation, and ensuing cell death. Here, we show that the protein encoded by the human AlkB homolog 7 (ALKBH7 ) gene plays a pivotal role in DNA-damaging agent-induced programmed necrosis by triggering the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential and large-scale loss of mitochondrial function that lead to energy depletion and cellular demise. Depletion of ALKBH7 suppresses necrotic cell death induced by numerous alkylating and oxidizing agents while having no effect on apoptotic cell death. Like wild-type cells, ALKBH7-depleted cells undergo PARP hyperactivation and NAD depletion after severe DNA damage but, unlike wild-type cells, exhibit rapid recovery of intracellular NAD and ATP levels. Consistent with the recovery of cellular bioenergetics, ALKBH7-depleted cells maintain their mitochondrial membrane potential, plasma membrane integrity, and viability. Our results uncover a novel role for a mammalian AlkB homolog in programmed necrosis, presenting a new target for therapeutic intervention in cancer cells that are resistant to apoptotic cell death.
POT1-TPP1 Regulates Telomeric Overhang Structural Dynamics

Summary Human telomeres possess a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) overhang of TTAGGG repeats, which can self-fold into a G-quadruplex structure. POT1 binds specifically to the telomeric overhang and partners with TPP1 to regulate telomere lengthening and capping, although the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that POT1 binds stably to folded telomeric G-quadruplex DNA in a sequential manner, one oligonucleotide/oligosaccharide binding fold at a time. POT1 binds from 3′ to 5′, thereby unfolding the G-quadruplex in a stepwise manner. In contrast, the POT1-TPP1 complex induces a continuous folding and unfolding of the G-quadruplex. We demonstrate that POT1-TPP1 slides back and forth on telomeric DNA and also on a mutant telomeric DNA to which POT1 cannot bind alone. The sliding motion is specific to POT1-TPP1, as POT1 and ssDNA binding protein gp32 cannot recapitulate this activity. Our results reveal fundamental molecular steps and dynamics involved in telomere structure regulation.
Three‐Dimensional Culture with Stiff Microstructures Increases Proliferation and Slows Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

A small quantity of stiff microstructures in a 3D matrix regulates human mesenchymal stem cells to increase proliferation and slow differentiation after 10 days in culture. Cell morphology, clustering and gene expression are significantly different although the stiff microstructures are only 0.07% of the total gel volume.
Modification of mutagenesis initiated by ultraviolet light through posttreatment of bacteria with basic dyes

Post treatment with basic dyes, in concentrations that retard cell division, was found to influence the tnduction of mutations to prototrophy by UV light in a tyrosine-requirtng strain of E.Coli. Pyronin, which is unique among the dyes in tts selective affinity for RNA, was found to duplicate the effects of chloramphenicol or amino acfd deprtvatfon in causfng the rapid and irreversible loss of potential prototrophs (mutation frequency decline, or MFD). Acriflavtne, methyl green. crystal violet, methylene blue, and toluidine blue, all of which are known to combine with DNA, delay or retard the occurrence of MFD under conditions of amino acid deprivation. When acriflavine is removed from its combination with cellular components by the addition of an excess of sodium deoxyrtbonucleate, MFD begins promptly. The same basic dyes that delay MFD were also found to interfere with the fixation of mutations (MF) in an amino acid- enriched medium, and to cause marked enhancement of the mutagenic potency of low doses of UV light. While showing no independent mutagenic activity for unirradiated bacteria, all the dyes except pyronin increased the yield of induced mutations signtficantly when added to the enriched medium upon which trradiated bacteria were incubated.These results were interpreted asmore » evidence that UV light initiates mutagenesis by producing unstable changas directly in genic DNA. MFD is interpreted as a repair process, blocked by the machinery of RNA and protein synthesis and by the presence of certain basic dyes.« less
Response of net ecosystem gas exchange to a simulated precipitation pulse in a semi-arid grassland: the role of native versus non-native grasses and soil texture

Physiological activity and structural dynamics in arid and semi-arid ecosystems are driven by discrete inputs or “pulses” of growing season precipitation. Here we describe the short-term dynamics of ecosystem physiology in experimental stands of native (Heteropogon contortus) and invasive (Eragrostis lehmanniana) grasses to an irrigation pulse across two geomorphic surfaces with distinctly different soils: a Pleistocene-aged surface with high clay content in a strongly horizonated soil, and a Holocene-aged surface with low clay content in homogenously structured soils. We evaluated whole-ecosystem and leaf-level CO2 and H2O exchange, soil CO2 efflux, along with plant and soil water status to understand potential constraints on whole-ecosystem carbon exchange during the initiation of the summer monsoon season. Prior to the irrigation pulse, both invasive and native grasses had less negative pre-dawn water potentials (Ψ pd), greater leaf photosynthetic rates (A net) and stomatal conductance (g s), and greater rates of net ecosystem carbon exchange (NEE) on the Pleistocene surface than on the Holocene. Twenty-four hours following the experimental application of a 39 mm irrigation pulse, soil CO2 efflux increased leading to all plots losing CO2 to the atmosphere over the course of a day. Invasive species stands had greater evapotranspiration rates (ET) immediately following the precipitation pulse than did native stands, while maximum instantaneous NEE increased for both species and surfaces at roughly the same rate. The differential ET patterns through time were correlated with an earlier decline in NEE in the invasive species as compared to the native species plots. Plots with invasive species accumulated between 5% and 33% of the carbon that plots with the native species accumulated over the 15-day pulse period. Taken together, these results indicate that system CO2 efflux (both the physical displacement of soil CO2 by water along with plant and microbial respiration) strongly controls whole-ecosystem carbon exchange during precipitation pulses. Since CO2 and H2O loss to the atmosphere was partially driven by species effects on soil microclimate, understanding the mechanistic relationships between the soil characteristics, plant ecophysiological responses, and canopy structural dynamics will be important for understanding the effects of shifting precipitation and vegetation patterns in semi-arid environments.
Cysteine Inhibition of Enzymatic Blackening with Polyphenol Oxidase from Potatoes

SUMMARY The possible sites of cysteine inhibition of enzymatic blackening using polyphenol oxidase from potatoes were studied. The initial site of cysteine inhibition of enzymatic blackening caused by tyrosine oxidation occurred at the oxidation of tyrosine to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (dopa). Following the initial induction period, the oxygen uptake paralleled those treatments with no cysteine. Concentrations of cysteine (9.5 × 10-3M) which inhibited tyrosine oxidation for 100 min did not inhibit dopa oxidation significantly. However, higher concentrations (1.9 × 10-2M) inhibited dopa oxidation. Cysteine did not inhibit chlorogenic acid oxidation under the conditions of our study. Oxygen uptake with chlorogenic acid plus cysteine was higher than in the absence of cysteine. Cysteine concentrations which effectively inhibited tyrosine oxidation did not inhibit oxidation in the presence of tyrosine plus chlorogenic acid.
A 'smart' bed for non-intrusive monitoring of patient physiological factors

In this paper we present the results of research aimed at the development of a 'smart' bed to non-intrusively monitor patient respiration, heart rate and movement using spatially distributed integrating multimode fibre optic sensors. The research is focused upon allowing more automation of patient care, an especially important matter for the elder population, which is a rapidly growing fraction of much of the world population today. Two spatially integrating fibre optic sensors were investigated, one of which was based on inter-modal interference and the other on mode conversion. The sensing fibre was integrated into a bed and test subjects were monitored in different positions. The sensor outputs were then correlated with subject movement, respiration rate and heart rate. The results indicated that the inter-modal sensor could detect patient movement and respiration rate while the mode conversion sensor could detect patient movement, respiration rate and heart rate. Results and analysis of the research are presented and future research activities discussed.
Use of Nonlinear Analysis in the Context of the ASCE 7 Seismic Load Provisions

This paper describes the use of nonlinear analysis within the context of the ASCE 7 seismic load provisions. The methods of analysis that are discussed include P-Delta analysis, nonlinear static analysis, and nonlinear dynamic analysis. All methods of analysis are discussed at the systems (entire structure) level. The use of nonlinear static analysis to perform sub-system evaluation is also described. Also provided in the paper is an assessment of the adequacy of the current analysis techniques in the context of advances that have been made in computational power and analysis capabilities over the last 40 years. Recommendations for improvements in the ASCE 7 analysis procedures are provided at the end of the paper.
Turbo-charging estimate convergence in DBO

DBO is a database system that utilizes randomized algorithms to give statistically meaningful estimates for the final answer to a multi-table, disk-based query from start to finish during query execution. However, DBO's "time 'til utility" (or "TTU"; that is, the time until DBO can give a useful estimate) can be overly large, particularly in the case that many database tables are joined in a query, or in the case that a join query includes a very selective predicate on one or more of the tables, or when the data are skewed. In this paper, we describe Turbo DBO, which is a prototype database system that can answer multi-table join queries in a scalable fashion, just like DBO. However, Turbo DBO often has a much lower TTU than DBO. The key innovation of Turbo DBO is that it makes use of novel algorithms that look for and remember "partial match" tuples in a randomized fashion. These are tuples that satisfy some of the boolean predicates associated with the query, and can possibly be grown into tuples that actually contribute to the final query result at a later time.
Aerosol therapy in children: challenges and solutions

Using aerosolized medications for the treatment of children has gained importance over the years. However, aerosol drug delivery to infants and pediatrics is not an easy task as it has been influenced by many challenges. Most aerosol devices have been designed for use in adults not for children. Therefore, they require some critical assessment in device selection and often a level of adaptation for use with smaller children. It is well documented that each aerosol device and interface that have been used for the treatment of children has its own advantages and challenges in drug delivery. This paper provides a comprehensive review of dosing, drug-device combination, aerosol devices and interfaces used for drug delivery to children with pulmonary diseases. Solutions to the challenges with the aim of optimizing aerosol therapy in this patient population are also discussed.
Interleukin-12-Producing CD103+ CD11b− CD8+ Dendritic Cells Are Responsible for Eliciting Gut Intraepithelial Lymphocyte Response against Encephalitozoon cuniculi

Microsporidia, which belong to the kingdom Fungi, are important opportunistic pathogens in HIV-infected populations and organ transplant recipients that are often associated with a broad range of symptoms, such as diarrhea, nephritis, and encephalitis. Natural infection occurs via the oral route, and as a consequence, gut immunity plays an important role in restricting the dissemination of these pathogens. Studies from our laboratory have reported that the pathogens induce a rapid intraepithelial lymphocyte (IEL) response important for host protection. Although mucosal dendritic cells (DC) are likely involved in triggering an antigen-specific IEL response, the specific subset(s) responsible has yet to be identified. Toward this goal, we demonstrate a very important role for mucosal CD11b(-) CD8(+) DC in the initiation of an antigen-specific IEL in vivo. Effectively, after Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection, CD11b(-) CD8(+) DC were activated in the lamina propria (LP) and acquired the ability to process retinoic acid (RA). However, this subset did not produce interleukin 12 (IL-12) but upregulated CD103, which is essential for migration to the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). Interestingly, CD103(+) CD11b(-) CD8(+) DC in the MLN, in addition to processing RA, also secreted IL-12 and were responsible for gut imprinting specificity on mucosal CD8 T cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the importance of MLN CD103(+) CD11b(-) CD8(+) DC isolated from infected animals in the generation of an IEL response against a live pathogen.
Preliminary results of imaging and diagnosis of nail fungal infection with optical coherence tomography

Nail fungal infection can lead to significant disability and predisposing diabetic patients to limb loose. Up to date, there is no method of diagnosising nail unit fungus quickly, accurately and non-invasively. In this study, imaging and diagnosing the nail unit fungus with OCT has been investigated. Preliminary in vivo studies demonstrate that OCT has a great potential to resolve a small amount of fungi which is extremly valuable for early detection and diagnosis of fungal infections.
'Un chant d'appel amoureux': acoustic communication in moths

Tympanal sound receptors in moths evolved in response to selective pressures provided by echolocating insectivorous bats. The presence of these ultrasound detectors also set the stage for the later evolution of ultrasonic courtship signals in the tympanate moth families. Male moths have repeatedly exploited the bat-detection mechanisms in females for the purpose of finding, identifying and obtaining mates. Ultrasonic courtship has been described in several members of the moth families Arctiidae, Noctuidae and Pyralidae, and ultrasound is predicted to play a significant role in the courtship of other tympanate moths including the Sphingidae, Lymantriidae, Notodontidae and Geometridae. Ultrasonic signals are involved in species recognition, in male-male competition for mates and in female mate-choice systems. Pre-existing motor systems, including those involved in bat defence, have also been exploited for the purpose of generating high-frequency courtship signals. Sound production mechanisms in moths include thoracic tymbals, tegular tymbals, alar castanets and genital stridulatory organs. Thus, in both their sensory and motor aspects, the weapons of bat/moth warfare have frequently evolved into components of courtship systems.
Tuning of robotic therapy controllers for stroke gait: Using isometrically constrained EMG modular structures

The development of EMG based controllers for automated gait orthosis is a promising intervention for post-stroke gait rehabilitation and assistive device applications. However, the integration of stroke specific modular neuromuscular patterns for the design of active gait assistance controller is largely unexplored. To this end, this work presents preliminary evidence of the associated variability between lower limb muscle activation patterns underlying discrete isometric control objectives and the analogous dynamic subtask during treadmill gait using matrix factorization algorithms. We find that common muscle coordination patterns underlying both isometric and dynamic gait submovements can be used to reconstruct relevant spatio-temporal patterns for healthy locomotion. We propose that synergies extracted isometrically may be sufficient to tune adaptive controller assistance for disruptive linkages in the EMG control signal to impact gait dysfunction.
Do adolescent employees perceive the risks of workplace violence? A mixed methods study

Objective: Adolescents are at risk for workplace violence (WPV) exposure but may not perceive it as a risk. The purpose of this study was to explore adolescent employees’ perceptions of safety from WPV. Methods: Using a qualitative dominant mixed methods design, 30 adolescent employees were recruited to complete a 36-item survey and individual interviews. Analyses included descriptive statistical techniques for survey responses, conventional content analysis for qualitative interview data, and mixed data analyses to explore differences in qualitative themes based on WPV exposure and gender. Results: Participants expressed mostly positive perceptions of safety despite 50% (n = 15) reporting WPV exposure. WPV exposure and gender did not appear to be associated with overall perceptions of safety but may be associated with safety in numbers. Most males had positive perceptions of safety. Conclusions: Adolescent employees want and deserve WPV training. Recommendations for nurses and other health professionals to assist adolescents with addressing health and safety issues in the workplace are provided.
Campaigns and counter campaigns: reactions on Twitter to e-cigarette education

Background Social media present opportunities for public health departments to galvanise interest in health issues. A challenge is creating content that will resonate with target audiences, and determining reactions to educational material. Twitter can be used as a real-time surveillance system to capture individuals’ immediate reactions to education campaigns and such information could lead to better campaigns in the future. A case study testing Twitter9s potential presented itself when the California Department of Public Health launched its ‘Still Blowing Smoke’ media campaign about the potential harmful effects of e-cigarettes. Pro-e-cigarette advocacy groups, in response, launched a counter campaign titled ‘Not Blowing Smoke’. This study tracked the popularity of the two campaigns on Twitter, analysed the content of the messages and determined who was involved in these discussions. Methods The study period was from 22 March 2015 to 27 June 2015. A stratified sampling procedure supplied 2192 tweets for analysis. Content analysis identified pro, anti and neutral e-cigarette tweets, and five additional themes: Marketing Elements, Money, Regulation/propaganda, Health, and Other. Metadata were analysed to obtain additional information about Twitter accounts. Results ‘Not Blowing Smoke’ was referenced more frequently than ‘Still Blowing Smoke’ on Twitter. Messages commonly objected to government regulation of e-cigarettes, refuted claims that e-cigarette manufactures were aligned with big tobacco, and touted the health benefits of e-cigarette use. E-cigarette companies and vape shops used campaign slogans to communicate with customers on Twitter. Conclusions Findings showed the time dynamics of Twitter and the possibility for real-time monitoring of education campaigns.
Organizational size and pollution: The case of the U.S. chemical industry

In their recent efforts to uncover the social structural causes of pollution, sociologists have explored the environmental effects of such factors as urbanization, modernization, class hierarchies, long economic cycles, and the world-system. However, they have yet to study what some consider to be the most intensive and effective environmental destroyer of all - organizations - and the effects of their structures. This paper proposes a new line of research that focuses on whether variations in pollution rates are associated with variations in organizational characteristics. As a first step toward developing this new approach, the authors investigate the effects of the organizational size of chemical plants on the rate of toxic emissions. Using data from the Environmental Protection Agency's Toxics Release Inventory, results show that large chemical plants emit toxins at a significantly higher rate than do small plants, especially if they are embedded in a wider corporate structure (i.e., they are also branch plants or owned by a major firm). Implications for future research on the structural determinants of pollution are discussed
Glycogen: Biosynthesis and Regulation

Glycogen accumulation occurs in Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium as well as in many other bacteria. Glycogen will be formed when there is an excess of carbon under conditions in which growth is limited because of the lack of a growth nutrient, e.g., a nitrogen source. This review describes the enzymatic reactions involved in glycogen synthesis and the allosteric regulation of the first enzyme, ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase. The properties of the enzymes involved in glycogen synthesis, ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase, glycogen synthase, and branching enzyme are also characterized. The data describing the genetic regulation of the glycogen synthesis are also presented. An alternate pathway for glycogen synthesis in mycobacteria is also described.
Parental Emotional Support during Emerging Adulthood and Baby Boomers' Well-Being in Midlife.

This study examined whether parental emotional support around emerging adulthood influenced well-being in midlife. We applied latent growth curve (LGC) models on 337 Baby Boomers who were in their late teens to early 20s when they entered the Longitudinal Study of Generations (LSOG) in 1971. There was a small but significant decline in self-rated health and positive emotions through 2005, but not depressive symptoms. Greater support from fathers in 1971 was associated with better self-rated health, less depression, and a slower decline in self-rated health across midlife. Greater support from mothers was associated with more positive emotions. These associations did not significantly differ among sons and daughters. Findings are discussed in the context of cumulative advantage/disadvantage and life-stage specific challenges to highlight the importance of parental emotional support during life transitions.
The Effect of Visible Spectrum Irradiation on Growth and Development in Several Species of Insects

German cockroach nymphs ( Blattella germanica (L.)), large milkweed bug nymphs ( Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dall.)) and adult spotted alfalfa aphids ( Therioaphis maculata (Buckton)) were exposed daily for short periods to several areas of the visible spectrum. Daily exposures of cockroaches to light indicated that the longer wave lengths of light may interfere with normal growth. As the daily exposure time was increased, the life span and the mean weights decreased. Daily exposure of the milkweed bugs to the longer wave lengths resulted in an increased maturation period, decreased adult weights, and fewer nymphs reaching the adult stage. Tests with the spotted alfalfa aphid indicated that short daily exposures to the longer wave lengths of light resulted in the birth of fewer nymphs over a period of several months experimentation. Consideration was given to the mechanism responsible for such growth inhibition.
Oxidation/sulfidation of iron-aluminium alloys

A principal reason for the interest in iron aluminides is their potential to resist corrosion in aggressive high-temperature environments. Accordingly, the development programme for this class of alloys has included an investigation of the corrosion properties in mixed oxidant (H2S-H2− H20) environments. Corrosion studies were initially directed at Fe3A1 and FeA1, including effects of third element additions such as Cr, Nb, Mo, Zr and Y. Iron-aluminium alloys with lower aluminium concentrations (between 16 and 22 atom%) were next investigated to establish the minimum aluminium concentration needed to resist sulfidation and oxidation. The results have shown that alloys containing ≥18% A1 are uniquely resistant to H2S-containing environments at 800°C. Chromium adversely affected the corrosion resistance in this mixed gas environment, although this effect was partially offset by the addition of molybdenum. Zirconium and yttrium had no significant effect on the corrosion rate under the same temperature and en...
An Efficient, Selective Process for the Conversion of Glycerol to Propylene Glycol Using Fixed Bed Raney Copper Catalysts

Propylene glycol is formed in yields of up to 95% at 100% conversion using a Raney Cu catalyst in a fixed bed reactor. The reaction uses an 80% aqueous glycerol solution and a hydrogen pressure of 600 psi. The primary byproduct is ethylene glycol formed in 1–3% yield. In a reaction run continuously for 24 d using a sample of a commercial preparation of Raney Cu, the selectivity to propylene glycol at 100% glycerol conversion was 94.6% with a space–time yield (STY) of 0.49 g of 1,2-propylene glycol/mL Raney Cu/h. Ethylene glycol was formed in 2.5% yield, while methanol, ethanol, n-propanol 1,3-propylene glycol, and acetol were present in less than 1% yield.
Hidden Dangers in the E-Commerce Data Mine: Governmental Customer and Trading Partner Screening Requirements

Making e-commerce sites easy to use and meeting online users' needs depends in large part upon knowing as much as possible about who uses a particular site and what they want. Data mining - gathering, collating, and organizing information concerning one's customers and trading partners - is of fundamental importance to all forms of e-commerce, whether on the business-to-business or business-to-consumer level. In addition to the usual types of information exchanged during the course of any ordinary commercial transaction, online commerce is becoming particularly dependent upon the personalization of the offerings or services provided in order to distinguish one e-business from another. While most e-businesses are aware of the privacy issues these technologies and activities create, a potentially more explosive, and much less appreciated, exposure lies hidden in the various blacklists employed in the federal government's trade controls and economic sanctions programs. The exposures these programs create are especially insidious, as they generally derive from laws and regulations that both predate the advent of most e-commerce technology and that were not generally crafted with e-commerce transactions in mind. Nevertheless, given the global reach of online operations, these laws and regulations do apply to e-commerce transactions - especially in a post 9/11 world - and violations can result in potentially disastrous consequences. This paper outlines how the Commerce, State, and Treasury Department sanctions and controls affect e-commerce.
Medical education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison: comparison of medical student and resident education as to the number of physicians practicing in the state of Wisconsin.

UNLABELLED The primary mission of a state-supported medical education is to produce physicians who will practice in that state. Medical school and residency graduates at the University of Wisconsin-Madison were compared as to how often they practice in the state after completing training. METHODS Six hundred ninety-three medical student graduates from 1987 to 1991 were compared with 657 residency graduates from 1992 to 1996 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Chi-square was used to compare the groups as to the number of physicians produced who: 1) practice in Wisconsin and 2) practice primary care in Wisconsin. RESULTS The residency training programs produced significantly more physicians (280) who practice in Wisconsin than did the medical school (246), X2 (df = 1) = 7.20, p < .01, and also significantly more primary care physicians, X2 (df = 1) = 6.16, p < .02. CONCLUSION When this evidence-based information is used as a measure of medical education outcomes, residency training may be more effective at producing practicing physicians and should not be discounted when planning the educational and public health needs for the state of Wisconsin.
Introduction to the Realm of Paraphilias

Paraphilias and what we now call paraphilic disorders have been puzzling, curiosity-arousing, attention attracting, famous and infamous (take masochism and sadism), maligned, and misunderstood for centuries. Our full understanding of paraphilic behaviors is still lacking. The lack of understanding probably starts with the lack of consensus about the definition, its use, and, at times, its, unfortunately, pejorative use.
The identity of Prakāśāditya

One of the enduring open questions in ancient Indian history is the identity of the king who identifies himself on the reverse of his gold coins as prakāśāditya. Most authors have assumed that he was a Gupta king. This paper reviews the various proposals on the identity of Prakāśāditya, arguing why we can be quite sure, as suggested by Robert Gobl, that he was in fact a Hun king and not a Gupta. Then, by presenting a near-complete reading of the obverse legend, it is shown that it is virtually certain that he was in fact the Hun king Toramāṇa, as Gobl had speculated. Implications of this finding are then considered.
Cost of ruling: An examination of political business cycle, governmental accountability, and alternation in power in Ghana’s democracy

ABSTRACTGhana’s past is littered with frequent swapping of regimes and governments, but often these alternations in power were of the unconstitutional type, triggered by men in uniform. Since the introduction of democracy in 1992, however, the two main political parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have through competitive elections taken turns in ruling the country. While there are few salient issues that divide the two parties, no single variable predicts a winner, sealing the fate of a ruling party, more than the handling of the national economy. The goal of this study is to review two realities in political economy that often impact elections in industrialized democracies and determine the extent to which these are salient in Ghana’s electoral contests. These two realities are the popularity-function and the vote-function. In a typical election, voters consider the popularity of the incumbent party and how it performed on the economy when deciding to eithe...
A Review of the Efficacy and Safety of Genvoya® (Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Alafenamide) in the Management of HIV-1 Infection.

Introduction:This review evaluates the efficacy and safety of Genvoya® (elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide [EVG/c/TAF/FTC]), a single-tablet regimen used for the management of HIV-1 infection. Phase II and III randomized clinical trials evaluate the efficacy and safety of EVG/c/TAF/FTC and tenofovir disoproxil fumerate (TDF)–containing arms; renal impairment, bone mineral density, metabolic effects, and other adverse events are topics explored within this review.Methods:A MEDLINE with full text and PubMed literature search was conducted for the past 5 years, up to April 2016.Results:Virologic suppression was similar between the EVG/c/TAF/FTC and TDF-containing groups (<50 copies/mL) at week 48. The bone mineral density in the hip and spine showed a significant reduction in the TDF-containing groups. The glomerular filtration rate increased in patients in the EVG/c/TAF/FTC arm and there were significant differences in total proteinuria, albuminuria, and tubular proteinuria i...
Tamoxifen Acceptance and Adherence among Patients with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) Treated in a Multidisciplinary Setting

Tamoxifen and other endocrine agents have proven benefits for women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), but low patient acceptance is widely reported. We examined factors associated with tamoxifen acceptance and adherence among DCIS patients who received a recommendation for therapy in a multidisciplinary setting. Using our institutional database, we identified women diagnosed with DCIS, 1998 to 2009, who were offered tamoxifen. We recorded data on demographics, tumor and therapy variables, tamoxifen acceptance, and adherence to therapy for ≥4 years. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted using logistic regression to identify factors specific to each group that were related to acceptance and adherence. A total of 555 eligible women identified, of whom 369 were offered tamoxifen; 298 (81%) accepted, among whom 214 (72%) were adherent, 59 of 298 (20%) were nonadherent, and for 25 (8%), adherence was undetermined. After stepwise elimination in adjusted logistic regression models, acceptance of breast radiotherapy was associated with acceptance of tamoxifen [OR, 2.22; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.26–3.90; P P = 0.05). Insured patients were more likely to adhere to tamoxifen (OR, 6.03; 95% CI, 2.60–13.98; P n = 38/56, 68%) discontinued the drug during the first year of treatment with 48 (86%) citing adverse effect(s) as the reason. In a multidisciplinary, tertiary care setting, we observed relatively high rates of acceptance and adherence of tamoxifen. Acceptance of tamoxifen and radiotherapy were associated, and adherence was influenced by insurance status. Key Message: Tamoxifen acceptance and adherence following resection of DCIS of the breast is related to acceptance of radiotherapy and may be improved by confirmation of the recommendation by a medical oncologist. Despite the low cost of tamoxifen, adherence to therapy is significantly impacted by lack of insurance; those who discontinue therapy report adverse effects as a major reason. Cancer Prev Res; 10(7); 389–97. ©2017 AACR .