cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel adenylate binding site confers phosphopantetheine adenylyltransferase interactions with coenzyme A.

Phosphopantetheine adenylyltransferase (PPAT) regulates the key penultimate step in the essential coenzyme A (CoA) biosynthetic pathway. PPAT catalyzes the reversible transfer of an adenylyl group from Mg2+:ATP to 4′-phosphopantetheine to form 3′-dephospho-CoA (dPCoA) and pyrophosphate. The high-resolution crystal structure of PPAT complexed with CoA has been determined. Remarkably, CoA and the product dPCoA bind to the active site in distinct ways. Although the phosphate moiety within the phosphopantetheine arm overlaps, the pantetheine arm binds to the same pocket in two distinct conformations, and the adenylyl moieties of these two ligands have distinct binding sites. Moreover, the PPAT:CoA crystal structure confirms the asymmetry of binding to the two trimers within the hexameric enzyme. Specifically, the pantetheine arm of CoA bound to one protomer within the asymmetric unit displays the dPCoA-like conformation with the adenylyl moiety disordered, whereas CoA binds the twofold-related protomer in an ordered and unique fashion.
Nonconscious Feelings of Closeness toward African Americans and Support for Pro‐Black Policies

In a democratic political system, where decisions are made by majority rule, the permanent exclusion of minorities is always a possibility. This raises a crucial question: what psychological mechanisms may allow members of a majority to identify with the political goals of a minority group? One possibility is that they are precisely the same mechanisms responsible for motivating minority members themselves to identify with the minority's political goals. According to the racial attitudes literature, African Americans are motivated by feelings of closeness toward Blacks to support pro-Black policies. This study investigates the possibility that feelings of closeness toward Blacks may also motivate White Americans to support pro-Black policies. To circumvent possible social desirability effects often associated with questions of race, feelings of closeness are measured both on the conscious (explicit) and nonconscious (implicit) levels. The implicit closeness measure is based on the idea of “cognitive self-other overlap” (Aron, Aron, Tudor, & Nelson, 1991) and has previously been used to measure nonconscious feelings of closeness in individual relationships. This study represents an application of this measure to the group level of racial intergroup relations. The study is based on a sample of 555 college students of diverse racial backgrounds. Results of a Granger-causality test support the construct validity of the implicit closeness measure. Furthermore, explicit and implicit feelings of closeness toward African Americans predict pro-Black policy support whether White participants are considered alone or together with participants of other backgrounds. Political and methodological implications of these findings are discussed.
Single-Channel Properties of Recombinant Acid-Sensitive Ion Channels Formed by the Subunits Asic2 and Asic3 from Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons Expressed in Xenopus Oocytes

The acid-sensitive ion channels known as ASIC are gated by external protons. A set of these channels is expressed in dorsal root ganglion neurons where they may participate in the transduction of mechanical and nociceptive stimuli. Here, we have examined the single-channel properties of channels formed by the subunits ASIC2 and ASIC3 expressed in Xenopus oocytes using outside-out patches. The mean single-channel current-voltage relationship is linear with a slope conductance of 18 pS between −80 and −40 mV in 150 mM Na+ outside and 150 mM K+ inside the patch pipet. The selectivity for monovalent cations has the sequence Na+ > Li+ > K+. Divalent cations such as Ca2+ do not permeate, but instead block the channel when applied to the extracellular side. External protons increase the probability of channels being open to a maximum of 0.8 with an EC50 of 16 ± 4 μM and a Hill coefficient of 2.7 ± 0.3, whereas the mean single-channel current amplitude is independent of external pH. Analysis of the kinetics of single channels indicates the presence of at least four modes of activity (Mod1 to Mod4) in addition to an inactivated state. Three of the modes exhibit distinct kinetics, and can be unambiguously identified on the basis of open probability (PoMod1 = 0.5 ± 0.05; PoMod2 > 0.9 ± 0.05; PoMod3 < 0.1). Mode 4, which has a Po in the range of 0.5–0.8, may constitute a distinct mode or alternatively, it represents transitions between the other three modes of activity. Increasing [H+]o increases the frequency of entering the modes with high Po (modes 1, 2, and 4) and the time the channel spends in the modes with high activity.
All-wheel driving using independent torque control of each wheel

Electric motors offer tremendous potential to create an advanced all-wheel drive system. By driving each wheel with a separate motor, the torque delivered to individual wheels can be precisely controlled. This paper reports control algorithms, simulation results, and initial results of scale model testing of an all-wheel drive system. The control algorithms seek to keep all four wheel speeds within a certain percentage of one another to limit slip, while a torque distribution system sets the torque command for each wheel based on its loading and the need to produce a yaw moment. Torque control algorithms are evaluated using an eight degree-of-freedom vehicle model. A unique road surface simulator is developed to evaluate controller performance on surfaces with realistic transitions between high and low friction patches. A microprocessor-controlled physical model based on a one-eighth scale radio-controlled car driven by four brushless DC motors is constructed as an experimental test platform. The resulting braking, traction, and anti-skid controllers result in a better-handling vehicle with improved safety and performance.
Judicial Activism in Perilous Times: The Turkish Case

Under what circumstances do courts act in ways that challenge the political hegemony of the military in countries with weak democratic institutions? This article addresses this question by focusing on a critical case of judicial activism in Turkey. It argues that lower courts unexpectedly can be centers of judicial activism that contributes to expansion of civil liberties and restrictions on arbitrary state power when the high judiciary supports the political status quo. This is because lower courts provide greater access to legal mobilization pursued by civil society actors. At the same time, judicial activism in lower courts is sustainable only when political power is distributed among elites with conflicting interests, and the civilian government offers support and protection to activist members of the judiciary.
Tobacco Nectarin III is a bifunctional enzyme with monodehydroascorbate reductase and carbonic anhydrase activities

Tobacco plants secrete a limited array of proteins (nectarins) into their floral nectar. N-terminal sequencing of the Nectarin II (NEC2; 35kD) and the Nectarin III (NEC3; 40kD) proteins revealed that they both share identity with dioscorin, the major soluble protein of yam tubers. These sequences also revealed that NEC2 is a breakdown product of NEC3. Using these N-terminal peptide sequences, degenerate oligonucleotides were designed that permitted the isolation of a partial NEC3 cDNA. This cDNA was then used to probe a nectary specific cDNA library and a full-length NEC3 cDNA clone was isolated. Complete sequence analysis confirmed the identity of NEC3 as a dioscorin-like protein. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometric fingerprinting of tryptic peptides derived from the purified NEC3 confirmed that this protein was encoded by the isolated cDNA. NEC3 was shown to possess both carbonic anhydrase and monodehydroascorbate reductase activities. RT-PCR based expression analyses demonstrated that NEC3 transcript is expressed throughout nectary development as well as in other floral organs. A proposed function in the maintenance of pH and oxidative balance in nectar is discussed.
Self-coordinating localized fair queueing in wireless ad hoc networks

Distributed fair queueing in a multihop, wireless ad hoc network is challenging for several reasons. First, the wireless channel is shared among multiple contending nodes in a spatial locality. Location-dependent channel contention complicates the fairness notion. Second, the sender of a flow does not have explicit information regarding the contending flows originated from other nodes. Fair queueing over ad hoc networks is a distributed scheduling problem by nature. Finally, the wireless channel capacity is a scarce resource. Spatial channel reuse, i.e., simultaneous transmissions of flows that do not interfere with each other, should be encouraged whenever possible. In this paper, we reexamine the fairness notion in an ad hoc network using a graph-theoretic formulation and extract the fairness requirements that an ad hoc fair queueing algorithm should possess. To meet these requirements, we propose maximize-local-minimum fair queueing (MLM-FQ), a novel distributed packet scheduling algorithm where local schedulers self-coordinate their scheduling decisions and collectively achieve fair bandwidth sharing. We then propose enhanced MLM-FQ (EMLM-FQ) to further improve the spatial channel reuse and limit the impact of inaccurate scheduling information resulted from collisions. EMLM-FQ achieves statistical short-term throughput and delay bounds over the shared wireless channel. Analysis and extensive simulations confirm the effectiveness and efficiency of our self-coordinating localized design in providing global fair channel access in wireless ad hoc networks.
A Comment on the Neonatal Mortality-Socioeconomic Status Relationship

Data for Toledo Ohio and San Antonio Texas reveal that a decline in neonatal mortality has led to a slight narrowing of the overall inverse relationship between infant mortality and socioeconomic status (SES) in both cities. At the same time there are notable differences in both the magnitude and pattern of the neonatal changes. In San Antonio the decline has led to a virtually nonexistent association between SES and neonatal mortality. In Toledo however although there has clearly been a convergence of neonatal mortality levels among 3 higher neighborhood groupings an inverse association is nevertheless still apparent and the lower SES area continues to be characterized by a neonatal death rate at least 40% higher than that of any other area. It is suggested that it is premature to infer as Markides and McFarland have done (in an earlier issue) that those factors contributing to the neonatal mortality decline "have affected lower SES infants to a greater extent." In evaluating the data presented it is stressed that the comparability of the 2 studies is limited: the 2 cities differ in size; they are located in markedly different regions; the dates covered are not identical; and they have radically different ethnic compositions. Further both studies are limited by being based on aggregate rather than individual data; and reflecting the prolonged delay in releasing the 1980 census data neither study has been able to update its SES measures. In both studies 1970 income data were used to identify the SES areas for both time periods examined; and if there have been any marked changes in the SES distribution of the population within either city since 1970 it could distort the nature and magnitude of the infant mortality-SES relationships.
An extension of Rice's click model for frequency hopping interference

The output signal-to-noise and interference ratios are obtained for the case of frequency-hopping interference in spread-spectrum systems. Performance curves are obtained for different numbers of users and band-sharing ratios. The results show a severe loss in output signal-to-noise ratio for low-input signal-to-noise ratio and a large number of users. >
Microfibre–nanowire hybrid structure for energy scavenging

Nanodevices don't use much energy, and if the little they do need can be scavenged from vibrations associated with foot steps, heart beats, noises and air flow, a whole range of applications in personal electronics, sensing and defence technologies opens up. Energy gathering of that type requires a technology that works at low frequency range (below 10 Hz), ideally based on soft, flexible materials. A group working at Georgia Institute of Technology has now come up with a system that converts low-frequency vibration/friction energy into electricity using piezoelectric zinc oxide nanowires grown radially around textile fibres. By entangling two fibres and brushing their associated nanowires together, mechanical energy is converted into electricity via a coupled piezoelectric-semiconductor process. This work shows a potential method for creating fabrics which scavenge energy from light winds and body movement. A self-powering nanosystem that harvests its operating energy from the environment is an attractive proposition for sensing, personal electronics and defence technologies1. This is in principle feasible for nanodevices owing to their extremely low power consumption2,3,4,5. Solar, thermal and mechanical (wind, friction, body movement) energies are common and may be scavenged from the environment, but the type of energy source to be chosen has to be decided on the basis of specific applications. Military sensing/surveillance node placement, for example, may involve difficult-to-reach locations, may need to be hidden, and may be in environments that are dusty, rainy, dark and/or in deep forest. In a moving vehicle or aeroplane, harvesting energy from a rotating tyre or wind blowing on the body is a possible choice to power wireless devices implanted in the surface of the vehicle. Nanowire nanogenerators built on hard substrates were demonstrated for harvesting local mechanical energy produced by high-frequency ultrasonic waves6,7. To harvest the energy from vibration or disturbance originating from footsteps, heartbeats, ambient noise and air flow, it is important to explore innovative technologies that work at low frequencies (such as <10 Hz) and that are based on flexible soft materials. Here we present a simple, low-cost approach that converts low-frequency vibration/friction energy into electricity using piezoelectric zinc oxide nanowires grown radially around textile fibres. By entangling two fibres and brushing the nanowires rooted on them with respect to each other, mechanical energy is converted into electricity owing to a coupled piezoelectric–semiconductor process8,9. This work establishes a methodology for scavenging light-wind energy and body-movement energy using fabrics.
Impact of Establishing a Primary Stroke Center at a Community Hospital on the Use of Thrombolytic Therapy The NINDS Suburban Hospital Stroke Center Experience

Background and Purpose— To increase the proportion of ischemic stroke patients treated with thrombolytic therapy, the establishment of primary stroke centers in community hospitals has been advocated. We evaluated the use of thrombolytic therapy before and after institution of a primary stroke center in a community hospital. Methods— The availability of an on-call stroke emergency response team was the only significant additional resource required for this hospital. All eligible patients were treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). The number of patients with cerebrovascular disease, number and proportion of patients treated with tPA, times to treatment, and patient outcomes were recorded during the first 2 years of the stroke center. Results— During the 12 months before institution of the stroke center, 3 ischemic stroke patients (1.5%) were treated with tPA. During the 2-year period of around-the-clock coverage, 44 of 420 ischemic stroke patients (10.5%) were treated with intravenous tPA, a significant increase in tPA use ( P Conclusions— Establishment of a primary stroke center at a community hospital resulted in a substantial increase in the proportion of patients receiving thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke. If this experience is generalized, the beneficial impact of primary stroke centers on stroke outcomes and costs to the healthcare system may be substantial.
Life History Strategy and Disordered Eating Behavior

A sample of female undergraduates completed a packet of questionnaires consisting of the Arizona Life History Battery, a modified version of the Eating Disorders Inventory, the Behavioral Regulation scales from the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, and two measures of Female Intrasexual Competitiveness that distinguished between competition for mates and competition for status. As predicted, Executive Functions completely mediated the relation between Slow Life History Strategy and Disordered Eating Behavior. Surprisingly, however, the relation between Female Intrasexual Competitiveness (competition for mates and competition for status) and Disordered Eating Behavior was completely spurious, with executive functions serving as a common cause underlying the inhibition of both Disordered Eating Behavior and Female Intrasexual Competitiveness. The protective function of Slow Life History Strategy with respect to Disordered Eating Behavior apparently resides in a higher degree of Behavioral Reg...
Urban Fiscal Distress, Municipal Takeover, and Local Governance

Under the auspices of economic stability and financial accountability, municipal takeover policies are gaining attention- from both critics and supporters. With the decision making role of elected officials effectively suspended, some speculate that municipal takeovers are the ‘end of democracy’. This paper focuses on the impact of municipal takeovers on local governance.
Stromal cells in myeloid and lymphoid long-term bone marrow cultures can support multiple hemopoietic lineages and modulate their production of hemopoietic growth factors

Hemopoiesis in long-term bone marrow cultures (LTBMC) is dependent on adherent stromal cells that form an in vitro hemopoietic microenvironment. Myeloid bone marrow cultures (MBMC) are optimal for myelopoiesis, while lymphoid bone marrow cultures (LBMC) only support B lymphopoiesis. The experiments reported here have made a comparative analysis of the two cultures to determine whether the stromal cells that establish in vitro are restricted to the support of myelopoiesis or lymphopoiesis, respectively, and to examine how the different culture conditions affect stromal cell physiology. In order to facilitate this analysis, purified populations of MBMC and LBMC stroma were prepared by treating the LTBMC with the antibiotic mycophenolic acid; this results in the elimination of hemopoietic cells while retaining purified populations of functional stroma. Stromal cell cultures prepared and maintained under MBMC conditions secreted myeloid growth factors that stimulated the growth of granulocyte-macrophage colonies, while no such activity was detected from purified LBMC stromal cultures. However, this was not due to the inability of LBMC stroma to mediate this function. Transfer of LBMC stromal cultures to MBMC conditions resulted in an induction of myeloid growth factor secretion. When seeded under these conditions with stromal cell- depleted populations of hemopoietic cells, obtained by passing marrow through nylon wool columns, the LBMC stromal cells could support long- term myelopoiesis. Conversely, transfer of MBMC stroma to LBMC conditions resulted in a cessation of myeloid growth factor secretion; on seeding these cultures with nylon wool-passed marrow, B lymphopoiesis, but not myelopoiesis, initiated. These findings indicate that the stroma in the different LTBMC are not restricted in their hemopoietic support capacity but are sensitive to culture conditions in a manner that may affect the type of microenvironment formed.
Improving Surveillance of Clearances in Future Air Traffic Control Systems

*† ‡ § Analysis of Air Traffic Control (ATC) system processes has identified the importance of accurate information regarding the active clearances for individual aircraft. The development, communication and execution of clearances involves many different agents that reside in the system, including controllers, ground automation systems, flight crews and aircraft automation systems. Inconsistencies between any of these agents in the understanding of the clearance for any given aircraft can lead to adverse safety, security or efficiency implications. For example, conflict detection and resolution tools require an accurate representation of the trajectory to be flown by each aircraft within the system. Additionally, improving conformance monitoring in ATC to enhance safety and security relies on accurate information of the clearances making up any given aircraft's Conformance Basis. Examples of clearance inconsistencies observed in the ATC system are presented. Models are developed to describe the different types and causes of inconsistencies that can occur, including temporal mismatch, insufficient or incorrect data entry into automation systems and voice communication misunderstandings. The occurrence of these inconsistencies can be reduced by employing advanced technologies such as improved human/machine interfaces, use of datalink and voice recognition technologies that enhance the “surveillance” of clearances and automate the sharing of data among systems. Some of these technologies are already being implemented through the continuing evolution of the ATC system. Upgrades to the sector Display System Replacement (DSR) and the deployment of the User Request Evaluation Tool (URET) promote the entry of clearance information into the ATC system through interfaces that rely on interactive menus rather than keystroke entries, thereby reducing data entry workload. The scheduled implementation of the En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) architecture along with a system wide information management system will facilitate the use of common data across subsystems within the ATC system. Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) coupled with other ATC decision support systems should further reduce controller data entry workload and voice communication misunderstandings through clearance uplink capabilities. In the longer term, the exchange of intent data between the aircraft and the ATC system offer the possibility of achieving still greater information accuracy, while the use of automated speech recognition technologies may reduce workload and improve clearance capture still further. Each of these approaches is described in detail.
Two economic greenhouse mealybugs of Mississippi.

The life histories of the citrus mealybug, Pseudococcus citri and the Mexican mealybug, Phenacoccus gossypii , are compared under greenhouse conditions. P. citri completed 8 life cycles in 365 days, while 381 days were required for Ph. gossypii to complete the same number. Mortality, parthenogenetic reproduction, effect on hosts, and recognition characters are discussed.
In vivo three-dimensional sonographic measurement of organ volume: validation in the urinary bladder.

The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of in vivo measurement of organ volume using 3DUS and compare the results to 2D sonographic methods using the urinary bladder as the target organ and voided urine volume for validation. Fifty normal volunteers were studied. 2D volume measurements were based on length, width, and depth data and assumed a regular geometric model. 3D volume measurements were based on masked slices with the voxels integrated over the entire bladder. Voided urine volumes ranged from 35 ml to 701 ml. Residual urine volume was present in 48% of the subjects and ranged from 1% to 14% of the voided volume. 2D volume estimates for all 50 subjects had a mean absolute value of the error of 27.5% ± 17.8%. 3D volume measurements had a mean absolute value of the error of 4.3% ± 3.7% (transverse) and 5.6% ± 3.8% (longitudinal). 3DUS provided more accurate volume measurements than 2DUS, particularly for irregularly shaped organs. KEY WORDS : Organs, volume measurement ; Bladder, volume measurement ; Three-dimensional ultrasonography.
An enzymatic glucose detection sensor using ZnO nanostructure

Glucose sensor based on ITO/ZnO NRs/GOx/nafion is fabricated and tested under different glucose concentrations. Hydrothermal growth method along with sol-gel technique is used to grow high quality ZnO nanorods that have well-alignment and high density with an acceptable aspect ratio. The as-grown of ZnO nanorods are used to fabricate a working electrode that can be used for glucose detection in blood after a modification process with GOx and nafion membrane. Annealing at 110 °C helped in improves the crystallinity of the seed layer and as a result, a high density and well alignment as-grown ZnO nanorods were obtained. High sensitivity and short response time were obtained from the fabricated device with an acceptable lower limit of detection.
Design on Single-arm Rotary CMZY1-100/20 Mode Drill Loader

The present situation of low degree of mechanization in the small roadway of hard rock tunnel boring, to design and manufacture single-arm rotary CMZY1-100/20 mode drill loader. It has truntalbe, to realize switch mechanical position of gathering unit and drill unit, so avoid mis-operation of gathering and drilling conditions, to solve the drill loader operation interference problem. It contains gathering unit, drilling unit, electronic control system, hydraulic system and so on 9 constituent design.With the excavation loading method and imported hydraulic rock drill, a conveying can freely choose after disassembly matching mode. therefore the multi-purpose designs makes its application prospect to be extremely widespread.
Cerebral hemodynamics and cerebral blood volume: MR assessment using gadolinium contrast agents and T1-weighted Turbo-FLASH imaging.

PURPOSE To assess the degree and regional pattern of first-pass brain enhancement using dynamic MR imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ultrafast MR imaging (1.06-second acquisition time per image) was performed in 19 healthy subjects following a bolus IV injection of a gadolinium contrast agent; 36 patients with suspected pathology were studied using the same protocol. RESULTS Calculated percent blood volumes were 4.9% for right cortical gray matter, 4.8% for left cortical gray matter, and 2.6% for white matter. Subtraction images were obtained that depicted the first pass "blood pool" pattern of enhancement (gray and white matter) which was significant. CONCLUSION Preliminary evidence suggests utility for cerebral "blood pool" imaging, especially if reduced image acquisition times can be achieved.
Should low-molecular-weight heparins replace unfractionated heparin as the agent of choice for adults with deep venous thrombosis?

Background Several low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) are now approved for use in the United States for the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism. They are used in Europe for the treatment of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. This review examines the evidence addressing the question "Should LMWHs replace unfractionated heparin (UFH) in the treatment of adults with DVT?" Methods We performed a MEDLINE search using the key words "low-molecular-weight heparin" from the years 1990 to 1998, and the results were assessed using the JAMA Users' Guides to the Medical Literature system. Results Low-molecular-weight heparins are at least as safe and effective as unfractionated heparin in the treatment of patients with DVT. They are probably more effective and safer. They are more convenient to use and are associated with lower overall costs. Conclusions Based on efficacy, safety, convenience, and cost, LMWHs are clearly superior to UFH in the treatment of DVT in primary care. Studies that confirm an expected improvement in patient-oriented outcomes (e.g., mortality and quality of life) need to be done.
Non-Family Employee's Identification with Family: The Moderating Effect of Culture in Family Firms

Through their distinct cultures, families that own firms have a unique ability to convey a sense of affiliation and belonging to their non-family employees. Such identification can impact non-family employees in a variety of ways. It can lead to increased levels of loyalty, trust and performance; but it can also have potential negative effects, such as feelings of entitlement or even fraudulent behavior. The purpose of this exploratory research is to determine how non-family employees develop strong identities with the owning family, and under which conditions their identification leads to positive or negative outcomes. In this respect, the role of family business culture as a potential moderator of this relationship will be of particular interest. Social identity theory and agency theory will serve as conceptual foundations for this study. A mixed methods approach will be used to investigate the research question. In a first step, semi-structured personal interviews with family business owners and their employees will be conducted. In a second step, a quantitative survey based on the results from the qualitative analysis and review of the literature will be administered to a random sample of small and medium enterprises in the United States.
Increasing Robot Saliency in Cluttered Visual Displays

It has been shown that modulating the saliency of a dense amount of information presented as icons on a map-based interface can reduce cognitive workload and improve user performance. Further, first response teams, particularly those responding to complex events, such as Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive device incidents will incorporate robots into their future teams to assist human team members and collect additional information. The deployment of such robots will require a human team member to supervise and task the various robots associated with the team. As the complexity of an incident increases and the number of responders with different specialties increases, for example Police, Emergency Medical Services, and Hazardous Materials, it will be harder to track the robots associated with a particular team, especially by the human team member responsible for the robots. A new algorithm, the Robot Visualization Algorithm, was developed to improve the saliency of robots for which ...
Living the Behavioral Dream.

Most of us have had a workday where we left a bit frustrated about one thing or another and thought “if I was in charge, I know I could do it better.” We dream of a better tomorrow where we tell our employer goodbye and become our own boss. Is that not the American Dream? We are told from early childhood that anything is possible and we can be anything we want to be if we just work hard. Somewhere between those naive childhood years and today we probably have come to realize these grand promises are more myths than truths and we become content with an approximation of this dream. To some individuals, however, approximations are not close enough.
M48. Digital Phenotyping in Schizophrenia Using Smartphones.

Background: The purpose of our study is to determine if self-reported symptom surveys and passive data (GPS, accelerometer, voice samples, call logs, text logs, and phone use data) collected from patients with schizophrenia in real time on their personal smartphone may be useful in predicting reoccurrence of psychotic symptoms. Methods: Research subjects are adults (age 18–45, both sexes) who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and are currently in treatment. Inclusion criteria include owning a smartphone capable of running the study application. Subjects use the smartphone app for a 3-month period. During this period the app will always be constantly collecting data, up to 1 million data points per day per subject as outlined in the background section. In addition, subjects will have psychiatric batteries including the PANSS, CGI, BPRS, and GAF completed as part of monthly check-up meetings with study staff. Outcome measures include (1) Adherence to and Acceptability of the Smartphone Application. (2) Comparison of Smartphone Application Data to Clinician Collected Metrics 3) Sensitivity of the Smartphone Application in Predicting Symptom Change Through Individual Data Streams (Surveys, GPS, Accelerometer, Voice, Call Logs, Text Logs, Screen Data) and in combination. Results: To date 14 of 20 subjects have been recruited into the study. Three have completed the study, 2 have dropped out, and 9 are currently active. The subjects who dropped out of the study did so related to factors other than smartphone and app use. No subjects have complained about the app use or its tracking. We plan to recruit 6 more subjects in the next month. From data pooled from all subjects to date, the total duration of minutes not using the phone shows a negative correlation with the warning signs scale (P = .0001) as well as the length of outgoing phone calls (P = .0024). Taking medications is correlated with the number of outgoing text messages sent (P = .0004). Conclusion: Preliminary sensor data indicates that there are small but statistically significant correlations with psychiatric symptoms for patients with schizophrenia. Results to date also suggest that tracking patients with schizophrenia via their personal smartphone is acceptable in a research context and there is no evidence of harm to date. Using patients’ own phones to assess symptoms offers a potentially cost effective and scalable means to gather new streams of objective data regards patient’s state and real time functioning.
Spirituality, Religion, and Violent Radicalization

The radicalization of individuals from faith communities may ultimately lead to violence inflicted against others. Most recently, this has been seen in the United States in the killing by professed Christians of physicians who perform abortion s and of homosexuals and by Muslim Somali youth in terrorist activities. This chapter explores what is known about such radicalization efforts and the role that can be played by social workers engaged at the community level.
Avalanche Photodiodes Based on the AlInAsSb Materials System

We report avalanche photodiodes (APDs) fabricated from high-aluminum-content Al x In 1− x As y Sb1− y lattice matched to GaSb that is grown within the miscibility gap using a digital alloy approach. The material was initially characterized through a series of Al x In1− x As y Sb1− y ( x = 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7) p-i-n structures. In order to achieve operation at telecommunications wavelengths, an Al x In1− x As y Sb 1− y separate absorption, charge, and multiplication APD has been developed. Very low excess noise, as characterized by k ∼0.01−0.05, has been achieved.
Delayed Sequential Co-Delivery of Gefitinib and Doxorubicin for Targeted Combination Chemotherapy

There are an increasing number of studies showing the order of drug presentation plays a critical role in achieving optimal combination therapy. Here, a nanoparticle design is presented using ion pairing and drug-polymer conjugate for the sequential delivery of gefitinib (Gi) and doxorubicin (Dox) targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling applicable for the treatment of triple negative breast cancers. To realize this nanoparticle design, Gi complexed with dioleoyl phosphatidic acid (DOPA) via ion paring was loaded onto the nanoparticle made of Dox-conjugated poly(L-lactide)-block-polyethylene glycol (PLA-b-PEG) and with an encapsulation efficiency of ~90%. The nanoparticle system exhibited a desired sequential release of Gi followed by Dox, as verified through release and cellular uptake studies. The nanoparticle system demonstrated approximate fourfold and threefold increases in anti-cancer efficacy compared to a control group of Dox-PLA-PEG conjugate against MDA-MB-231 and A549 cell li...
Financial Struggles of a Small Community-Based Organization: A Teaching Case of the Capacity Paradox

Agency Overview: Latino Family Services Organization (LFSO) is a small community-based organization based in Southern California that is dedicated to supporting the development of healthy families ...
SLC9B1 methylation predicts fetal intolerance of labor

Fetal intolerance of labor is a common indication for delivery by Caesarean section. Diagnosis is based on the presence of category III fetal heart rate tracing, which is an abnormal heart tracing ...
Hotel saturation and its impact upon destination marketing

The following research addresses the growing concern that the historic tourism city of Charleston, South Carolina, may be reaching a tourism saturation point, with the city considering the implemen...
Classed Outcomes: How Class Differentiates the Careers of Liberal Arts College Graduates in the US.

In the United States, attending a selective liberal arts college is often a sign of success. Human capital theory assumes graduates from these colleges share similar outcomes, in terms of employmen...
Identification of cellular sources of IL-2 needed for regulatory T cell development and homeostasis

The cytokine IL-2 is critical for promoting the development, homeostasis, and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells. The cellular sources of IL-2 that promote these processes remain unclear. T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) are known to make IL-2 in peripheral tissues. We found that T cells and DCs in the thymus also make IL-2. To identify cellular sources of IL-2 in Treg cell development and homeostasis, we used Il2FL/FL mice to selectively delete Il2 in T cells, B cells, and DCs. Because IL-15 can partially substitute for IL-2 in Treg cell development, we carried out the majority of these studies on an Il15-/- background. Deletion of Il2 in B cells, DCs, or both these subsets had no effect on Treg cell development, either in wild-type (WT) or Il15-/- mice. Deletion of Il2 in T cells had minimal effects in WT mice but virtually eliminated developing Treg cells in Il15-/- mice. In the spleen and most peripheral lymphoid organs, deletion of Il2 in B cells, DCs, or both subsets had no effect on Treg cell homeostasis. In contrast, deletion of Il2 in T cells led to a significant decrease in Treg cells in either WT or Il15-/- mice. The one exception was the mesenteric lymph nodes where significantly fewer Treg cells were observed when Il2 was deleted in both T cells and DCs. Thus, T cells are the sole source of IL-2 needed for Treg cell development, but DCs can contribute to Treg cell homeostasis in select organs.
Studying collective nuclear excitations with fast neutrons: a comparison of 76Ge and 76Se

The low-lying, low-spin level structures of 76 Ge and 76 Se were studied with the (n,n'γ) reaction. Gamma-ray excitation function and angular distribution measurements were performed, and level spins, level lifetimes, γ-ray intensities, and multipole mixing ratios were determined. Large observed B(E2) values support the identification of low-lying band structures.
Effects of Initial Conditions on Mixing in Richtmyer-Meshkov Turbulence Experiments

Often, and especially in canonical turbulence research, the belief is that initial conditions wash-out and the turbulence develops to a universal self-similar state [1, 2]. However, recent numerical work [3, 4] has shown that this hypothesis hold true only for some flows, and that the buoyancy driven (Rayleigh-Taylor) turbulence is dependent upon initial conditions, and a self-similar state has not been measured in experiments. Similarly, R-M flows, driven by a shock wave, have a time-dependent mixing evolution that is also dependent upon initial conditions [5, 6, 7, 8]. In this present study we focus on improving our understanding of the nature of initial conditions on R-M mixing.
Evolution of Host Plant Utilization in Colias Butterflies

Evolutionary biologists have recently been criticized for employing the “adaptationist program” — i.e., seeking explanations as to why things are exactly as they should be in the best of all possible worlds (Gould and Lewontin 1979). Gould and Lewontin (1979) criticize the approach of dissecting organisms into traits, each of which is then analyzed for optimality. They cite the human chin to illustrate their point: the chin itself has no adaptive function, but arises as a by-product of the structural features of the jaw; analysis of optimal chin design would be misguided.
Actions of hormones and other factors upon oocyte maturation.

The mammalian oocyte is arrested in the dictyate state of meiosis from shortly before or at the time of birth until 1–2 days prior to ovulation. Under the influence of the preovulatory LH surge the oocyte in the large preovulatory follicle destined to ovulate undergoes maturation. The germinal vesicle breaks down and the first polar body is extruded. This first meiotic maturation must be completed in order to render the oocyte fertilizable. The physiological mechanism responsible for keeping the oocyte in the state of meiotic arrest is unknown. It is well documented that if the oocytes are removed from medium or large-sized follicles and cultured they resume meiotic maturation before they normally would in vivo. (Reviewed by Tsafriri, 1978; Channing et al., 1980; Schuetz, 1974.) Addition of a low molecular weight fraction of follicular fluid (FF1) (porcine, human, bovine) can inhibit the resumption of meiosis of cultured cumulus-enclosed porcine (Tsafriri and Channing, 1975; Tsafriri et al., 1976; and Stone et al., 1978), rat (Tsafriri et al., 1977; Pomerantz, Tsafriri, and Channing, 1979), and hamster (Gwatkin and Andersen, 1976) oocytes suggesting that a meiotic inhibitor is present in follicular fluid.
Public service announcement perceptions: a quantitative examination of anti-violence messages

Abstract Context: In recent years, anti-violence public service announcements (PSAs) have been broadcast on commercial and cable networks. Objective: This study examined if and how teenagers’ demographics and background variables were related to the perceptions of several anti-violence PSAs. Design: This was a pencil-and-paper survey that had teenagers provide information about their demographics and knowledge of, attitudes about, and experience with violence. Then, teenagers screened and responded to several PSAs, indicating their levels of interest in, comprehension of, credibility given, and perceived effect for each message. Setting and Participants: In public school settings, data were collected from a sample of 1480 urban, suburban, and rural midwestern teenagers. Main Outcome Measures: Interest in, comprehension of, credibility given, and perceived effect of PSAs. Results: Using bivariate and multivariate analyses, we found significant but weak relationships between teenagers’ characteristics and perceptions of anti-violence PSAs. Conclusion: This study suggests that audience segmentation be based not only on demographics but also on factors specifically related to the presented topic.
Supportive care and symptom burden in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms.

e21684Background: Pharmacologic therapy stabilizes hematologic counts and splenomegaly in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), however only partial symptom improvement typically occurs. Evidenced-ba...
Adventitial cysts of the radial artery are joint connected

Volar radial wrist masses are common. Adventitial cysts of the radial artery are rarely reported and poorly understood. We describe a case series of adventitial cysts in association with the radial artery and detail their pathophysiology and treatment. We conducted an Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective review of patients treated at our institution from 1997 to 2018. Twelve patients were identified. Presenting symptoms typically included pain and swelling over the volar radial wrist. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated tubular, cystic lesions within the adventitia of the radial artery with connections to the wrist joint confirmed on multiplanar imaging: (radiocarpal joint = 10; scaphotrapeziotrapezoidal joint = 1; and intercarpal joint = 1). Seven patients underwent operation, at which time the cyst was resected and the articular branch disconnected. These patients reported resolution of their symptoms without clinical recurrence. The consistent finding of a joint connection in these cases of adventitial cysts associated with the radial artery has important clinical implications. The joint connection needs to be disconnected. Level of evidence: Level IV, case series. Clin. Anat. 32:201-205, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ethnic Landscapes of America

John A. Cross. Cham, Switzerland: Springer International, 2017. xiv and 411 pp., maps, photos, illustrations, references. $199.99 cloth (ISBN 978-3-319-54008-5); $149.00 electronic (ISBN 978-3-319-...
A pilot study examining activity monitor use in older adults with heart failure during and after hospitalization

Abstract Our study examined feasibility and acceptability of continuous objective activity monitoring during hospitalization and after discharge in older adults with heart failure. Recruitment rate was 49.2% of eligible patients with a 93.1% retention rate. Twenty-seven older patients admitted with heart failure (78 ± 9.8 years; 51.8% female) wore two inclinometric accelerometers to record posture in-hospital and an ankle accelerometer to record ambulatory activity in-hospital and 30-days after discharge. During hospitalization, participants had 96.2% recorded wear time for postural accelerometers, and 99% for the ankle accelerometer. During the post-discharge period, there was 92% recorded wear time of the ankle accelerometer. Themes identified by participants were ease of wear, compatibility with hospital technology, remembering device/device use, and need for feedback/curiosity. Our study demonstrates feasibility and acceptability of continuous objective monitoring during hospitalization and at home in this clinical population.
Variable Impedance Control of Powered Knee Prostheses Using Human-Inspired Algebraic Curves

Achieving coordinated motion between transfemoral amputee patients and powered prosthetic joints is of paramount importance for powered prostheses control. In this article, we propose employing an algebraic curve representation of nominal human walking data for a powered knee prosthesis controller design. The proposed algebraic curve representation encodes the desired holonomic relationship between the human and the powered prosthetic joints with no dependence on joint velocities. For an impedance model of the knee joint motion driven by the hip angle signal, we create a continuum of equilibria along the gait cycle using a variable impedance scheme. Our variable impedance-based control law, which is designed using the parameter-dependent Lyapunov function framework, realizes the coordinated hip-knee motion with a family of spring and damper behaviors that continuously change along the human-inspired algebraic curve. In order to accommodate variability in the user's hip motion, we propose a computationally efficient radial projection-based algorithm onto the human-inspired algebraic curve in the hip-knee plane.
Recalcitrant prurigo nodularis treated successfully with dupilumab.

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic pruritic condition that reduces quality of life. PN may exist in 50% of cases as an overlap syndrome with atopic dermatitis (AD), although its etiology has not been clearly established.1 Because of a paucity of data and randomized controlled trials, treatment of PN is challenging. Consequently, patients often endure multiple unsuccessful therapeutic trials. We report on 2 patients with PN who did not respond to a variety of treatments and subsequently achieved clearance of lesions with dupilumab.