Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Democratic Ethics and Ecological Modernization: The Formulation of California’s Automobile Emission Standards

Abstract The state of California is the force leading the nation’s automobile emission standards. Environmental groups working on clean air policies, however, have been co-opted by the state agency responsible for setting the state’s automobile emission standards, the California Air Resources Board, and the automobile and oil industries. This has been done primarily by controlling the nature of the discourse surrounding the public debate on how to improve air quality. This debate is centered not on health and the environment but on “ecological modernization,” or the technology of controlling air pollution. Thus land use planning is ignored or is not considered as a viable policy option. Given the bounded nature of this debate, I hold that the most ethical and efficacious approach for environmental groups is to withdraw from the state’s policymaking process and redeploy their time and resources toward civil society. I draw this conclusion by employing an ethics rooted in democracy and by offering a description of the forces that are driving the ecological modernization of the automobile in California.
Impaired control and undergraduate problem drinking.

AIMS Impaired control, one of the hallmarks of addiction, is also one of the earliest dependence symptoms to develop. Thus impaired control is particularly relevant to undergraduates and other young adults with relatively brief drinking histories. The main goal of this study was to determine whether impaired control predicted heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related problems cross-sectionally in an undergraduate sample after controlling for gender, family history of alcohol and drug problems, and several other established predictor variables from the undergraduate alcohol literature. METHODS A sample of first-year undergraduates (n=312) completed Part 2 of the Impaired Control Scale (ICS) and other measures related to alcohol use as part of a larger study on problem drinking in undergraduates. RESULTS Scores on Part 2 of the ICS predicted heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related problems cross-sectionally even after controlling for all other predictor variables. Notably, impaired control was a stronger predictor of alcohol-related problems than overall weekly alcohol consumption. Part 2 of the ICS was found to be a reliable and valid measure for use with undergraduates. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the notion that impaired control is one of the earliest dependence symptoms to develop. The ICS is an effective tool for identifying young adults at risk for problem drinking.
The development of a routine NHS data-based index of performance in general practice (NHSPPI).

OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to compare two different approaches to the measurement of quality in general practice: data derived from routine NHS data sets and results from an index derived from patient-collected data. METHODS A secondary analysis of existing data sets and a cross-sectional survey were carried out in Lothian, Coventry, Oxfordshire and west London. The subjects comprised randomly selected and consenting practices, and a sample of patients within these practices. A National Health Service Practice Performance Index (NHSPPI) was constructed from 16 routinely available NHS performance indicators. The Consultation Quality Index (CQI) combines the Patient Enablement Instrument (PEI) with a measure of how well the patient knew the doctor, and with observed consultation length. RESULTS Scores for 12 of the 16 indicators varied significantly across the four regions. Mean practice NHSPPI score overall was 21.6 (SD 4.3), which varied significantly across regions. NHSPPI was predicted by practice list size, weighted deprivation index and proportion of other language patients in the practice, although their effects could not be separated. Overall there was no correlation between NHSPPI and CQI, although the prescribing component of the index was positively correlated to mean consultation length and negatively correlated with how well patients knew their doctors. CONCLUSIONS Good quality care as assessed by patients on completion of their consultation is independent of good quality care as assessed by best available measures of practice performance. We suggest that the CQI and the NHSPPI are at least as ready for use as other measures of performance in general practice.
Sam68 associates with the SH3 domains of Grb2 recruiting GAP to the Grb2‐SOS complex in insulin receptor signaling

The 68 kDa Src substrate associated during mitosis (Sam68) is an RNA binding protein with Src homology (SH) 2 and 3 domain binding sites. We have recently found that Sam68 is a substrate of the insulin receptor (IR) that translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and that Tyr‐phosphorylated Sam68 associates with the SH2 domains of p85 PI3K and GAP, in vivo and in vitro. In the present work, we have further demonstrated the cytoplasmic localization of Sam68, which is increased in cells overexpressing IR. Besides, we sought to further study the association of Sam68 with the Ras‐GAP pathway by assessing the interactions with SH3 domains of Grb2. We employed GST‐fusion proteins containing the SH3 domains of Grb2 (N or C), and recombinant Sam68 for in vitro studies. In vivo studies of protein–protein interaction were assessed by co‐immunoprecipitation experiments with specific antibodies against Sam68, GAP, Grb2, SOS, and phosphotyrosine; and by affinity precipitation with the fusion proteins (SH3‐Grb2). Insulin stimulation of HTC‐IR cells promotes phosphorylation of Sam68 and its association with the SH2 domains of GAP. Sam68 is constitutively associated with the SH3 domains of Grb2 and it does not change upon insulin stimulation, but Sam68 is Tyr‐phosphorylated and promotes the association of GAP with the Grb2‐SOS complex. In vitro studies with fusion proteins showed that Sam68 association with Grb2 is preferentially mediated by the C‐terminal SH3 domains of Grb2. In conclusion, Sam68 is a substrate of the IR and may have a role as a docking protein in IR signaling, recruiting GAP to the Grb2‐SOS complex, and in this way it may modulate Ras activity. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 99–106, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The ABCs of Rhinoviruses, Wheezing, and Asthma

ABSTRACT Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) were discovered as common cold pathogens over 50 years ago. Recent advances in molecular viral diagnostics have led to an appreciation of their role in more-significant respiratory illnesses, including bronchiolitis in infancy, childhood pneumonia, and acute exacerbations of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, and cystic fibrosis. Until a few years ago, only two groups of HRVs (A and B) had been recognized. However, full and partial sequencing of HRVs led to the discovery of a third species of HRV (HRV-C) that has distinct structural and biologic features. Risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms for more-severe HRV infections are being defined, and yet fundamental questions persist about mechanisms relating this common pathogen to allergic diseases and asthma. The close relationship between HRV infections and asthma suggests that antiviral treatments could have a major impact on the morbidity associated with this chronic respiratory disease.
The THD Characteristics of the Phase detector

The paper presents an evaluation of the THD characteristics of the synmetrical and simple phase detectors, using exponential models of the detectors. By developing the output expressions into a series with Bessel-function coefficients, it is shown that, under certain conditions, the convergence is obtained. This approach results in relating the THD characteristics to other relevant electrical parameters of the circuits. Finally, a comparison is made between the simple and symmetrical detector with respect to their distortion characteristics.
Concussion in Professional Football: Neuropsychological Testing—Part 6

OBJECTIVE:The National Football League (NFL) neuropsychological testing program is reviewed, and neuropsychological test data are presented on various samples of NFL athletes who sustained concussion (mild traumatic brain injury, MTBI). METHODS:This study evaluated post-MTBI neuropsychological testing of NFL players from 1996 to 2001. All athletes completed a standardized battery of neuropsychological tests and underwent postinjury neuropsychological testing within a few days after concussion. Test scores were compared with baselines using analysis of variance for athletes having on-field memory dysfunction, three or more concussions, or 7+ days out from practice and play. RESULTS:The MTBI group did not display significant neuropsychological dysfunction relative to baseline scores within a few days of injury. However, a subsample of the injured athletes who displayed on-field memory dysfunction performed significantly more poorly on two of the memory tests. The neuropsychological test results of a group of athletes with a history of three or more MTBIs did not differ significantly compared with a group who had fewer than three concussions or compared with league-wide normative data. The neuropsychological performance of athletes who were out from full participation 7+ days was not significantly different from the group who returned to play within 7 days or the norms. CONCLUSION:Neuropsychological testing is used within the overall medical evaluation and care of NFL athletes. Players who experience MTBI generally demonstrate rapid recovery of neuropsychological performance, although poorer neuropsychological test results were related to on-field memory dysfunction. NFL players did not demonstrate evidence of neurocognitive decline after multiple (three or more) MTBIs or in those players out 7+ days. The data show that MTBI in this population is characterized by a rapid return of neuropsychological function in the days after injury.
Risk tolerance, personal financial knowledge and demographic characteristicsevidence from India

Risk tolerance has a great impact on every individual's portfolio decision. It is a very important factor to be considered to achieve long term financial goals. The low level of risk tolerance may put back the individuals from investing in stocks or other long term investment avenues which will result in a shortfall of income in the retirement period. Individuals with extremely high risk tolerance may suffer losses of wealth by considering short term investment with high return portfolios. The purpose of the paper is to find out the influence of demographic characteristics and personal financial knowledge on risk tolerance levels among working adults in India. Six demographic variables namely gender, age, education, income, marital status and occupation have been studied in relation to risk tolerance level. Study also analyzes the influence of personal financial knowledge on risk tolerance level. The study is based on primary data collected through structured questionnaire to capture various dimensions of risk and personal financial knowledge. To capture various dimensions of risk tolerance level of individuals, this study used structured questionnaire of Grable.J and R.H. Lytton (1999). Personal financial knowledge has been measured based on five dimensions i.e. money management, investment planning, insurance planning, retirement planning and tax planning. Regression analysis was employed for 297 responses to assess which of the variables influence the levels of risk tolerance. It is observed in the present study that male are more risk tolerant than female. The result suggests that the risk tolerance of a respondent generally increases as income increases. The results also suggest that higher education indicates an increased risk tolerance. Demographic characteristics such as occupation, age and marital status were found to be significant. Level of financial knowledge has significant positive relationship with risk tolerance indicating that individuals with higher personal finance knowledge will be willing to take informed higher risks. Present study brings out the age, education and personal financial knowledge as the important antecedents to risk tolerance level of Indian individuals which highlights the necessity to involve basic finance course in different levels of education curriculum. Present study will assist financial service providers in asset management industry in manufacturing better financial products. More risky and high yielding products can be designed for more educated male who are employed in service.
ERCP in orthotopic liver transplanted patients.

BACKGROUND/AIMS Biliary complications after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) are still common. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of ERCP as a diagnostic and treatment tool in the management of biliary tract OLT complications. METHODOLOGY The diagnostic and treatment effectiveness of ERCP in the management of biliary tract OLT complication from 1/1995 to 12/2001 was reviewed. RESULTS 24/251 (9.6%) OLT patients presented biliary complications. These patients underwent a total of 31 ERCP (seven patients received two ERCP). The ERCP indication was cholestasis in 25 (80.6%). The success rate of these 31 ERCPs was 87%. In the 25 ERCPs indicated in patients with cholestasis, the procedure revealed strictures of the biliary anastomosis in 3, hepatic hilum strictures in 5, SOD in 4, lithiasis in 7 and sclerosing cholangitis in one. The final diagnosis of three patients with normal biliary tract was intrahepatic cholestasis. In three of the four patients with biliary leaks the ERCP's confirmed the diagnosis. The final treatment efficacy was 100% (7/7 patients), 50% (2/4 p.), 0% (0/3 p.), 75% (3/4 p.) and 100% (4/4 p.) for patients with biliary stones, strictures of the hilum, anastomotic strictures, biliary leaks and SOD, respectively. In the acute pancreatitis and in the PSC endoscopic treatment was not indicated. There were two mild cases of pancreatitis. CONCLUSIONS Because of its availability, diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy and safety, ERCP should be used as the first-line procedure for treatment of biliary tract complications after OLT.
Y-Site Compatibility of Vancomycin and Piperacillin/Tazobactam at Commonly Utilized Pediatric Concentrations

Background Vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam are common empiric antibiotics in hospitalized pediatric patients. Studies evaluating intravenous (IV) compatibility at various concentrations show inconsistent results. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the Y-site compatibility of vancomycin 10 mg/mL and piperacillin/tazobactam 112.5 mg/mL. Methods Vancomycin (10 g vial) was reconstituted using sterile water for injection (SWFI) and diluted with 5% dextrose in water (D5W) to a final concentration of 10 mg/mL in an evacuated IV bag. Piperacillin/tazobactam (40.5 g vial) was reconstituted and diluted with SWFI to a final concentration of 112.5 mg/mL (100 mg/mL piperacillin) in an evacuated IV bag. Both antibacterial stock solutions were then stored in a refrigerator at 4°C (39.2°F). Initial solution appearances, including color, clarity, and particulates, were documented. Diluted solutions were mixed in a quantity of 3 mL of each vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam in glass test tubes. Subsequent evaluation included pH assessment and visual evaluation with unaided eye, magnifying glass, high-beam light, and via Spec-20 turbidimeter. Solution mixtures were evaluated upon mixing and again at 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 4 hours after mixing. Results Initial combination of vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam resulted in a milky precipitate, visible to the unaided eye, which dissipated 15 seconds after mixing. No precipitate was visualized via any method at any additional time point. Turbidimetry and pH readings did not demonstrate differences from baseline measurements. Conclusions A combination of vancomycin 10 mg/mL and piperacillin/tazobactam 112.5 mg/mL demonstrated precipitation immediately upon mixing. Co-infusion of vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam via Y-site should be considered incompatible.
T cell‐ and perforin‐dependent depletion of B cells in vivo by staphylococcal enterotoxin A

Bacterial superantigens bind to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and subsequently activate both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes expressing certain T‐cell receptor (TCR)‐Vβ chains. In response to superantigen exposure these subsets proliferate, produce large amounts of proinflammatory cytokines and in addition CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) are induced. Previous studies in vitro have shown that these CTL effectively lyse MHC class II‐expressing cells presenting the proper superantigen. However, it is unknown whether superantigens induce a similar response towards MHC class II+ antigen‐presenting cells in vivo. In this study we demonstrate that administration of repeated injections of the superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) to TCR‐Vβ3 transgenic mice results in a loss of MHC class II‐expressing cells in the spleen. Analysis of different MHC class II+ subsets revealed a selective depletion of CD19+ B cells, while F4/80+ macrophages increased in number. Depletion of T cells with anti‐CD4 or anti‐CD8 monoclonal antibody indicated that CD8+ T cells were crucial for SEA‐induced cytotoxicity in vivo. Repeated injections of SEA to perforin‐deficient mice resulted in significantly less B‐cell depletion compared with control mice. This suggests that superantigen‐activated CD8+ T cells lyse MHC class II+ antigen‐presenting cells in a perforin‐dependent manner in vivo. It is suggested that this represents a novel bacterial immune escape mechanism, which may particularly impair local humoral immune responses.
Biochemical identification of citrobacteria in the clinical laboratory

We biochemically identified 235 Citrobacter strains to the species level on the basis of the recently proposed taxonomic changes of Brenner et al. (D. J. Brenner, P. A. D. Grimont, A. G. Steigerwalt, G. R. Fanning, E. Ageron, and C. F. Riddle, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 43:645-658, 1993). Citrobacter isolates were initially identified as C. koseri or as members of the C. freundii complex or C. amalonaticus group on the basis of indole production, formation of H2S, malonate utilization, and acid production from D-arabitol and adonitol. On the basis of the results of these tests, 68% of the Citrobacter strains were identified as members of the C. freundii complex, 25% were C. koseri, and 8% were members of the C. amalonaticus group. By using a 15-test system recently proposed by Brenner et al. (D. J. Brenner, P. A. D. Grimont, A. G. Steigerwalt, G. R. Fanning, E. Ageron, and C. F. Riddle, Int. J. Syst. Bacteriol. 43:645-658, 1993) to help identify new species in the C. freundii complex and C. amalonaticus group, 81% of the C. freundii complex strains and 100% of the C. amalonaticus strains could be definitively assigned to one of the previously established or recently designated species or hybridization groups of the genus Citrobacter. Within the C. freundii complex, C. freundii predominated overall (37%), followed by C. youngae (24%), C. braakii (13%), and C. werkmanii (6%). Only one strain each of C. sedlakii and Citrobacter DNA group 11 was identified in this study. Among C. amalonaticus complex members, all were identified as C. amalonaticus with the singular exception of one fecal isolate of C. farmeri. C. freundii and C. koseri were the two Citrobacter species most commonly (80 of 93 [86%]) isolated from extraintestinal sources (genitourinary tract, wounds, blood).
Prostate rebiopsy is a poor surrogate of treatment efficacy in localized prostate cancer.

PURPOSE Many investigators use prostate rebiopsy as an indicator of treatment efficacy and tumor response of localized prostate cancer for therapies in which the gland remains in situ. Because of the inherent sampling error of needle directed biopsies, however, some men will have a false-negative rebiopsy even if they have had no therapy or if the therapeutic intervention was unsuccessful in eradicating the malignancy. We evaluate the risk of a false-negative biopsy and the clinical factors that influence this risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 90 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for clinically localized disease underwent sextant biopsy of the prostate immediately after removal of the gland. Data collected included prostate specific antigen (PSA), hormonal status, age and biopsy core status. RESULTS Of the total study population 67.8% received neoadjuvant hormonal therapy. While all patients had pathologically confirmed adenocarcinoma within the prostatectomy specimen, 45.6% demonstrated a false-negative rebiopsy. Within a combined predictive model, PSA and hormonal status demonstrated a statistically significant effect on the false-negative rebiopsy rate. Predictive power of this combined model was high across the spectrum of risk for a false-negative rebiopsy. CONCLUSIONS This series demonstrates that the risk of a false-negative sextant biopsy in the presence of documented prostate cancer is high and is affected by several factors, including PSA and hormonal status. These data suggest that prostate sextant rebiopsy is an inaccurate method of assessing the therapeutic efficacy of treatments for carcinoma of the prostate in which the gland remains in situ following therapy.
Examining Facilitative Configurations of Entrepreneurially Oriented Growth: An Information Processing Perspective

This study examines how the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and firm growth is shaped by learning orientation in technologically sophisticated environments. We draw upon an information processing perspective that emphasizes alignment between information processing demands and support mechanisms. Using data from 116 small to medium-sized enterprises in the Netherlands, we observe that the ability of entrepreneurial orientation to drive firm growth greatly depends on the joint consideration of technological sophistication and learning orientation. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of how configurations of strategic orientations and environmental considerations work in concert to influence the efficacy of organizational entrepreneurial efforts dramatically.