cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diet and Carcinogen Alter the Fecal Microbial Populations of Rats

An analysis of viable bacterial populations enumerated on carbohydrate selective media was used to simulate the colonic environment in vitro and determine if differential media could detect significant microbial shifts due to dietary fiber source, dietary fat source, and carcinogen. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were provided with either pectin or cellulose as a fiber source, either corn or fish oil as a source of fatty acids, and injected with either azoxymethane (AOM), a gastrointestinal carcinogen, or saline in a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design. At 6 and 10 mo of age, fresh feces were collected, homogenized in anaerobic buffer and anaerobically plated onto differential media. Diets containing pectin supported more anaerobes at 6 mo of age (P < 0.01) than diets containing cellulose. Rats injected with AOM and consuming either pectin or corn oil supported more anaerobes at 10 mo of age (P < 0.05) than rats injected with saline and consuming the same diets. Rats consuming cellulose and receiving AOM but not expressing tumors possessed larger anaerobic populations at 10 mo of age (P < 0.05) than rats consuming cellulose, injected with AOM and expressing tumors. These effects show that gastrointestinal bacterial populations, as measured by carbohydrate specific media, respond to dietary changes such as dietary fiber source, and thus may play a key role in the etiology of colon cancer.
Rapid emergence of daptomycin resistance in clinical isolates of Corynebacterium striatum… a cautionary tale

The objective of this study was to investigate the observation of daptomycin resistance in Corynebacterium striatum, both in vivo and in vitro. We describe a case of C. striatum bacteremia in a patient with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD); the initial isolate recovered was daptomycin susceptible with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.125 μg/ml. Two months later, and after daptomycin therapy, the individual became bacteremic with an isolate of C. striatum with a daptomycin MIC of >256 μg/ml. To study the prevalence of daptomycin resistance in C. striatum, clinical isolates of C. striatum were grown in broth culture containing daptomycin to investigate the emergence of resistance to this antimicrobial. Molecular typing was used to evaluate serial isolates from the index patient and the clinical isolates of C. striatum we assayed. In vitro analysis of isolates from the index patient and 7 of 11 additional C. striatum isolates exhibited the emergence of high-level daptomycin resistance, despite initially demonstrating low MICs to this antimicrobial agent. This phenotype was persistent even after serial subculture in the absence of daptomycin. Together, these data demonstrate that caution should be taken when using daptomycin to treat high-inoculum infections and/or infections of indwelling medical devices with C. striatum. To our knowledge, this is the first report characterizing the emergence of daptomycin resistance in C. striatum.
The elderly:Still the “invisible and forgotten” market segment

The needs of the elderly in many product and service areas are clearly different from those of the rest of the population. These needs could be fulfilled at a profit if marketers responded in adequate measure. The authors present evidence that marketers have made some progress in this direction, but much more is needed. The authors present various actions in terms of product, price, place, promotion, and packaging that marketers can implement in order to meet the neglected needs of the elderly. These actions not only contribute to the welfare of the elderly, but they are likely to be profitable for the marketers as well. Finally, the authors identify some important issues in public policy that relate to the elderly.
Medullary Control of Vascular Resistance

Relationships between electrical activity in medullary vasomotor areas and reflex changes in peripheral vascular resistance were studied in dogs in which the hindquarters were autoperfused. Electrical stimulation through bipolar electrodes indicated a diffuse distribution of vasoactive points. Points yielding vasoconstrictor responses were found primarily in the rostral half of the medulla oblongata, while vasodilator points were located in the caudal and ventral portions of the medulla. Extensive crossing of vasomotor pathways was shown by the fact that stimulation of a single medullary point resulted in vascular resistance changes in both the ipsilateral and contralateral limbs. Stimulation of vasodilator points resulted in noncholinergic active vasodilatation in the hindlimb. The dilatation was considered to be active because it exceeded the sustained dilatation produced by lumbar sympathectomy and was reduced in magnitude by the antihistamine, ripelennamine. Discharge recorded through the electrodes from the same points which, when stimulated, gave vasomotor responses in the limb was larger in the vasoconstrictor point than in the vasodilator point. This difference may represent a central reflection of tonic sympathetic vasoconstrictor discharge. Reflex vasodilatation produced by intravenous norepinephrine was accompanied by a small but significant increase in activity recorded from vasodilator points. Other reflex stimuli, which included asphyxia and elevation and depression of carotid sinus pressure, elicited changes in electrical activity from the vasoconstrictor and vasodilator areas which, although small in magnitude, followed directions which were predicted on the basis of the existence of separate vasodilator and vasoconstrictor neurone pools. It was concluded that neurones exist in the medulla which probably play a role in exciting vasodilator pathways involved in reflex vasodilatation.
Rational Design of an Epstein-Barr Virus Vaccine Targeting the Receptor-Binding Site

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) represents a major global health problem. Though it is associated with infectious mononucleosis and ∼200,000 cancers annually worldwide, a vaccine is not available. The major target of immunity is EBV glycoprotein 350/220 (gp350) that mediates attachment to B cells through complement receptor 2 (CR2/CD21). Here, we created self-assembling nanoparticles that displayed different domains of gp350 in a symmetric array. By focusing presentation of the CR2-binding domain on nanoparticles, potent neutralizing antibodies were elicited in mice and non-human primates. The structurally designed nanoparticle vaccine increased neutralization 10- to 100-fold compared to soluble gp350 by targeting a functionally conserved site of vulnerability, improving vaccine-induced protection in a mouse model. This rational approach to EBV vaccine design elicited potent neutralizing antibody responses by arrayed presentation of a conserved viral entry domain, a strategy that can be applied to other viruses.
Hexagonal wavelet processing of digital mammography

This paper introduces a novel approach for accomplishing mammographic feature analysis through overcomplete multiresolution representations. We show that efficient representations may be identified from digital mammograms and used to enhance features of importance to mammography within a continuum of scale-space. We present a method of contrast enhancement based on an overcomplete, non-separable multiscale representation: The hexagonal wavelet transform.
Evolution of Epa Programs And Policies That Impact Agriculture

Environmental policies for agriculture in the United States began with a narrow focus on pesticides. These policies have recently become more flexible and integrated in addressing the serious ecological damages caused by agriculture. Early programs restricting the use of certain widely used pesticides altered the mix of available pesticides and changed the mix of environmental and human health risks from pesticides. More recently, flexible approaches achieve water, wildlife and climate benefits by targeting protection to vital areas and by using the most effective remedies. Under new action plans, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has addressed the application of agricultural nutrients and developed water quality criteria to serve as goals for reducing nutrient loadings. In implementing the 1996 Farm Bill, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has focused incentive payments on the most economically efficient practices, such as nutrient planning and riparian protection. The new emphasis on flexible approaches and effective remedies by both agencies can result in major gains in treating widespread agro-environmental problems.
Adenovirus-mediated ectopic expression of Msx2 in even-numbered rhombomeres induces apoptotic elimination of cranial neural crest cells in ovo

Distinct cranial neural crest-derived cell types (a number of neuronal as well as non-neuronal cell lineages) are generated at characteristic times and positions in the rhombomeres of the hindbrain in developing vertebrate embryos. To examine this developmental process, we developed a novel strategy designed to test the efficacy of gain-of-function Msx2 expression within rhombomeres in ovo prior to the emigration of cranial neural crest cells (CNCC). Previous studies indicate that CNCC from odd-numbered rhombomeres (r3 and r5) undergo apoptosis in response to exogenous BMP4. We provide evidence that targeted infection in ovo using adenovirus containing Msx2 and a reporter molecule indicative of translation can induce apoptosis in either even- or odd-numbered rhombomeres. Furthermore, infected lacZ-control explants indicated that CNCC emigrated, and that 20% of these cells were double positive for crest cell markers HNK-1 and beta-gal. In contrast, there were no HNK-1 and Msx2 double positive cells emigrating from Msx2 infected explants. These results support the hypothesis that apoptotic elimination of CNCC can be induced by ‘gain-of-function’ Msx2 expression in even-numbered rhombomeres. These inductive interactions involve qualitative, quantitative, positional and temporal differences in TGF-beta-related signals, Msx2 expression and other transcriptional control.
Recommendations to Regulations: Managing Wildlife and Produce Safety on the Farm

Successful fruit and vegetable production requires produce growers to not only have keen business acumen, but also a vast knowledge of science and agriculture, adaptability to changing farm and environmental conditions, an understanding of produce safety practices, and often times, sheer determination and dedication to rigorous labor. One long-standing and frustrating challenge for produce growers is managing wildlife on fruit and vegetable farms in an effort to protect crops from damage and preserve a full harvest to take to the market. In the last 15 years, however, focus regarding wildlife on farms has shifted to produce safety risks that may result from the presence of wildlife fecal material in produce fields and packinghouses. With buyer requirements for produce safety practices and the first-ever federal regulation of fruits and vegetables on the horizon, growers need to understand and implement food safety practices on the farm, including managing wildlife concerns to reduce risks, and make critical decisions to ensure their farm’s long-term viability.
Emergence of XY-like phase in deformed spin- 3 2 AKLT systems

Affleck, Kennedy, Lieb, and Taski (AKLT) constructed an exemplary spin-3/2 valence-bond solid (VBS) state on the hexagonal lattice, which is the ground state of an isotropic quantum antiferromagnet and possesses no spontaneous magnetization but finite correlation length. This is distinct from the N\'eel ordered state of the spin-3/2 Heisenberg model on the same lattice. Niggemann, Kl\"umper, and Zittartz then generalized the AKLT Hamiltonian to one family invariant under spin rotation about the $z$ axis. The ground states of this family can be parameterized by a single parameter that deforms the AKLT state, and this system exhibits a quantum phase transition between the VBS and N\'eel phases, as the parameter increases from the AKLT point to large anisotropy. We investigate the opposite regime when the parameter decreases from the AKLT point and find that there appears to be a Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless-like transition from the VBS phase to an XY phase. Such a transition also occurs in the deformation of other types of AKLT states with triplet-bond constructions on the same lattice. However, we do not find such an XY-like phase in the deformed AKLT models on other trivalent lattices, such as square-octagon, cross, and star lattices. On the star lattice, the deformed family of AKLT states remain in the same phase as the isotropic AKLT state throughout the whole region of the parameter. However, for two triplet-bond generalizations, the triplet VBS phase is sandwiched between two ferromagnetic phases (for large and small deformation parameters, respectively), which are characterized by spontaneous magnetizations along different axes. Along the way, we also discuss how various deformed AKLT states can be used for the purpose of universal quantum computation.
Toward a Unifying Ontology for Human-Information Interaction

Research agendas in human-information interaction (HII) are varied and divergent. The interdisciplinary lens of information studies offers a convergent view of HII scholarship. The purpose of this paper is to taxonomically document the divergent scholarship in humaninformation interaction, and construct a unifying ontology of HII discourse, using bibliometric
Feeding/Swallowing Disorders: Maintaining Quality of Life in Persons with Intellectual Disability

Persons with intellectual disability (ID) have received little attention in systematic studies of healthcare and quality of life. Less attention has been provided to specific disorders, such as those impacting the swallowing mechanism. In comparison to the general population, persons with ID experience noticeably greater healthcare inequalities and despite greater life expectancy, it is still lower than the general population. This paper serves as an introduction to healthcare colleagues regarding the risks involved in choking and swallowing disorders in persons with ID, how to evaluate these potential risks and possible treatments. Associated etiologies are presented. A discussion on feeding disorders versus swallowing disorders is also introduced. The inadequacy of swallowing assessment services to persons with ID may be related to the lack of professionals with specialized training in working with this population, reduced funding for research to explore options for improved nutrition and reduced risk of choking and minimal research on changes in feeding skills and/or swallow physiology in this select group of individuals
CLONING OF A GENE THAT CONTROLS RADIATION SENSITIVITY, CELL DIVISION, AND CAPSULAR POLYSACCHARIDE SYNTHESIS, THE lon(capR) GENE

ABSTRACT Mutants in the Ion(capR) gene of E. coli K12 are pleiotropic; i.e. 1) they form nonseptate filaments ( 1ong form) after UV or nitrofurantoin treatment; 2) in the absence of such treatments they overproduce capsular polysaccharide and synthesis of 10 enzymes involved in polysaccharide production is derepressed. Such clones appear mucoid. The Ion gene product has been hypothesized to be a repressor. In order to identify and isolatethis product, it appeared necessary to clone the Ion gene. An F′ episome containing the lon + and proC + genes was obtained by crossing an Hfr strain (with proC + as a late marker) with a proC capR9 recA strain and selecting for proC + and scoring for lon + (nonmucoid phenotype). One such clone contained an F′ episome designated F′BZ105. The episome had a M.W. of 1.2 × 10 8 and could readily be isolated from CsCl - EtBr gradients. F'BZ105 DNA was mixed with pHAl21 DNA (a plasmid that confers tetracycline resistance (Tc R ) and colicin El immunity and contains pSCl0l and pHA105 (a 1.6 MD miniCol El) joined at EcoRl sites), cut with EcoRl and ligated. A Ion(capR) strain was transformed with the DNA and Tc R clones were selected followed by replica plating onto minimal medium where nonmucoid ( lon + ( capR + )) clones could be distinguished. Three clones (of 6585 screened) yielded plasmids which could also transform Ion(capR) strains to Tc, UV, and nitrofurantoin resistance and madethem nonmucoid as well. UDP-glucose dehydrogenase, anenzyme that is elevated in the mucoid recipient, was repressed in the nonmucoid transformant. Two of these plasmids, designated pBZ201 and pBZ203, when cut with EcoR l each yielded a 6.1 MD fragment (pSCl0l) and a second fragment of 8.2 MD. pBZ201 and pBZ203 have been transformed into Ion strains that also produce minicells in order to identify the polypeptides specified by the 8.2 MD fragment.
Ineffectiveness of Call Surveys for Estimating Population Size in a Widespread Neotropical Frog, Oophaga pumilio

Abstract Call surveys offer a valuable method to monitor anuran populations attributable to their temporal breeding habits and close association with water. Many temperate locations have adopted citizen science programs to monitor local anuran populations using call surveys and road transects. These surveys, however, are not commonly conducted in the tropics. I tested use of call surveys for estimating population density of a small terrestrial poison frog, Oophaga pumilio, in six different populations in Bocas del Toro, Panama. By conducting three-minute call surveys, and searching for all individual frogs in a 10 m radius of the survey point, I directly compared the number of calling males to the observed number of frogs in a given area. I found call density to be a poor predictor of population density. Despite there being differences in population densities, the lack of a relationship between the number of calls and population density highlights the limited use for call surveys for terrestrial, territor...
Punitive damages against trustees

This essay considers whether punitive damages should be awarded against trustees. It concludes that a satisfactory justification for awarding them has not been given. Seen from the rightful-position perspective, punitive damages fail to support the plaintiff’s forward movement to the rightful position. They are also inconsistent with the scope of liability in trust law. From the perspective of optimal deterrence, punitive damages would increase deterrence for those who need it least (risk-averse internalizers), and decrease deterrence for those who need it most (risk-seeking externalizers). From the viewpoint of law and equity, punitive damages in trust law would be an idiosyncrasy requiring an explanation, whereas no explanation is needed for their absence. Even if punitive damages were used selectively, they would likely be overused relative to the constructive trust. Indeed, the uncanny coinciding of the rise of punitive damages against trustees with the decline in American lawyers’ familiarity with the constructive trust raises the possibility that it is not greater knowledge, but greater ignorance, that led to the development. Whatever the reason for this rise, the best verdict that can be rendered for punitive damages against trustees is “not proven.”
Real-Time Identification of Leukocyte Subsets and Cell Surface Receptor Microdomains in the Microvasculature of Wild-Type and Sickle Cell Mice In Vivo.

Abstract Intravital microscopy has contributed enormously to the recent mechanistic advances in leukocyte (WBC) trafficking. However, current methods have provided little knowledge about differential WBC subset behavior or the spatial redistribution of surface adhesion molecules during recruitment and activation. Here, we use digital high-speed multichannel fluorescence intravital videomicroscopy to identify WBCs and localize cell surface molecules. Adherent WBCs were ascertained using a series of near-simultaneous 4-channel images in randomly selected venular segments following the injection of low-dose (0.02–0.12 mg/kg) fluorescently labeled Mab against CD45, Gr-1, and F4/80. Preliminary experiments on FAC-sorted WBCs revealed that Gr–1+F4/80- cells were highly enriched in neutrophils (PMNs, ~99%), whereas the F4/80+ fraction was mostly monocytes (~70%) and the fraction negative for both markers was largely lymphocytes (~88%). In the cremaster muscle of C57BL/6 mice (n=6), 39 ± 4% of adherent CD45+ cells recruited in venules ~90 min following surgery were Gr–1+F4/80- (PMNs), and 45 ± 7% were F4/80+ (monocytes), while 18 ± 3% were Gr–1-F4/80- (lymphocytes). In contrast, the proportion of PMNs was significantly increased in cremasteric venules of sickle cell (SS) mice (Berkeley) (79 ± 7%, n=5; p
Pre-Term and Perinatal Predictors of Neonatal Hippocampal Volumes

Hippocampal volumes of 184 preterm (PT) and 32 full-term (FT) infants were measured by segmental MRI at term equivalent age in an investigation of correlations of preterm hippocampal volume, perinatal risk factors, and neurodevelopmental outcome, at University of Melbourne, Victoria, and other centers in Australia; St Louis and Boston, USA; and Geneva, Switzerland.
Inverse Filtering to Minimize the Effect of Mechanical Aberration in Focusing Piezoelectric Transducers

The resolution of acoustic images from a “positively scanning transmitter” system is limited by the size of the focal spot of the acoustic beam. Frequently a spatial focusing electrode pattern, such as a Fresnel zone plate, is used to excite the piezoelectric transducer of such a system. However, the transformation of that electrode pattern to the acoustic pattern actually generated is not exact. This effect, called mechanical aberration, is a result of wave generation and propagation in the piezoelectric plate and can be represented by a spatial transfer function. The aberration enlarges the focal spot and decreases the resolving power of the instrument.
Human Reliability Modeling

ABSTRACT This chapter discusses and critically examines a number of techniques for assessing human reliability, including methods that depend on the quantification of human error as well as approaches that emphasize human cognitive processing. The chapter concludes with an attempt at synthesis in which a number of issues potentially relevant to the problem of predicting human error are raised and briefly discussed.
Continuous Review Perishable Inventory Models

Continuous review means that the state of the inventory system is known at all times, as opposed to periodic review where the state of the system is known only at discrete points in time labeled periods. Surprisingly, very little is known about optimal ordering policies for fixed life perishables under continuous review. The difficulty is that when an order lead time is present, aging is applied only to the units on hand, and not to the units on order. Furthermore, since units may be ordered at any point in time, there is no limit to the number of different orders that comprise the on-hand inventory at any point in time. Hence, the vector describing the on-hand inventory of each age level has an unlimited number of dimensions.
Post-Patent Ductus Arteriosus ligation syndrome with hypertension and masking of renal artery stenosis in an infant

Post-patent ductus arteriosus ligation syndrome is common, but rarely has hypertension been described following ductal ligation with an unclear mechanism. We report a case of an infant who exhibited features of post-patent ductus arteriosus ligation syndrome and hypertension, but was found to have bilateral renal artery stenosis. Increased systemic vascular resistance can be masked by the parallel circuit physiology of a patent ductus arteriosus.
Depression and hopelessness as risk factors for suicide ideation, attempts and death: Meta-analysis of longitudinal studies

BackgroundMany studies have documented robust relationships between depression and hopelessness and subsequent suicidal thoughts and behaviours; however, much weaker and non-significant effects have also been reported. These inconsistencies raise questions about whether and to what degree these factors confer risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviours.AimsThis study aimed to evaluate the magnitude and clinical utility of depression and hopelessness as risk factors for suicide ideation, attempts and death.MethodWe conducted a meta-analysis of published studies from 1971 to 31 December 2014 that included at least one longitudinal analysis predicting suicide ideation, attempt or death using any depression or hopelessness variable.ResultsOverall prediction was weaker than anticipated, with weighted mean odds ratios of 1.96 (1.81–2.13) for ideation, 1.63 (1.55–1.72) for attempt and 1.33 (1.18–1.49) for death. Adjusting for publication bias further reduced estimates. Effects generally persisted regardless of sample severity, sample age or follow-up length.ConclusionsSeveral methodological constraints were prominent across studies; addressing these issues would likely be fruitful moving forward.Declaration of interestNone.
Surprisingly Punitive Damages

Think first of the classic problem of redundant punitive damages: A defendant has caused a mass tort. Plaintiff 1 sues, winning punitive damages based on the overall reprehensibility of that original act. Plaintiff 2 also sues — and also wins punitive damages on the same grounds. So do Plaintiff 3, Plaintiff 4, and so forth.Next, consider a more subtle problem: Many statutes set the minimum award per claim at a super-compensatory level, based on the assumption that private suits may need extra inducement. But when enforcement turns out to be more vigorous than was assumed — most famously, when thousands or millions of claims are brought at once — then the damages in even a single case can stack up to surprisingly punishing effect.These problems share a conceptual feature that I analyze here: The damages in each context can be seen as encompassing two distinct components — a “variable” portion that properly varies with the number of claims, and a “fixed” portion that should be awarded only once. The crucial error that leads to surprisingly punitive damages is repeatedly awarding not only the variable but also the fixed component of damages, in cases with multiple claims.One natural solution for neutralizing such redundancy is to allow courts to run concurrently the fixed component of such repeated awards. This paper explores how a “concurrent damages” approach might be applied to variations of each problem; addresses its pros, cons, and complications; and explores how it relates to other procedural devices, including preclusion and aggregation.
Real-Time Prediction of Lean Blowout using Chemical Reactor Network

Abstract Lean blowout (LBO) of combustion systems is a concern that can cause costly and time-intensive reignition of land-based gas turbines and can affect the rate of descent for aircraft and the maneuverability of military jets. This work explores the feasibility of model-based combustor monitoring and real-time prediction of combustion system proximity to LBO. The approach makes use of (1) real-time temperature measurements, coupled with (2) the use of a real-time chemical reactor network (CRN) model to interpret the data as it is collected. The approach is tested using a laboratory jet-stirred reactor (JSR), operating premixed on methane at near atmospheric pressure. The CRN represents the combustion reactor as three perfectly stirred reactors (PSRs) in series with a recirculation pathway; the model inputs include real-time temperature measurements and mass flow rates of fuel and air. The goal of the CRN is to provide a computationally fast means of interpreting measurements in real time regarding proximity to LBO. The CRN-predicted free radical concentrations and their trends and ratios are studied in each combustion zone. The results indicate that the hydroxyl radical maximum concentration moves downstream as the combustion reactor approaches LBO. The ratio of hydroxyl radical concentrations in the flame zone versus the recirculation zone is proposed as a criterion for the LBO proximity. The model-based process monitoring approach sheds insight into combustion processes in aerodynamically stabilized combustors as they approach LBO.
Variations and Trends in Global and Regional Sea Levels

Abstract The focus of the analysis reported in this chapter is to understand variations and trends in sea levels at regional and global scales. A brief introduction of measurement methods used for observing sea level changes and discussion about uncertainties in the measurements is provided. Parametric and nonparametric trend assessment methods are described and discussed. Assessments of trends at several sites around the world andsurrounding the United States, are provided. An exhaustive discussion on variations and changes in sea level linked with coupled oceanic and atmospheric oscillations are provided.
Efficacy of the combination of carteolol hydrochloride + latanoprost in the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Introduction: The only evidence-based mechanism for prevention and treatment of glaucomatous optic neuropathy is decreasing the intraocular pressure (IOP). Prescribing multiple ocular hypotensive a...
Otolaryngologist and pediatric oncologist perspectives on the role of fine needle aspiration in diagnosing pediatric head and neck masses.

Abstract Objective To determine how otolaryngologists and pediatric oncologists differ in their initial approach to diagnosing head and neck masses in children and adolescents. Methods We designed an electronic 28-question survey consisting of 4 clinical cases and one referral case varying by patient age, history, and physical exam findings. The survey was sent anonymously to pediatric oncologists and otolaryngologists at institutions in the United States and Canada. Results Two hundred and thirty one pediatric oncologists (29.4%) and 87 otolaryngologists (39.5%) completed the survey. Otolaryngologists were significantly more likely to recommend performing an FNA than oncologists in all four cases; less than 7% of pediatric oncologists recommended FNA for head and neck mass evaluation. Of providers who recommended FNA, otolaryngologists were more likely to do so because of diagnostic yield when compared to pediatric oncologists. However, when referred a patient with an FNA demonstrating non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the majority of pediatric oncologists (73.6%) and otolaryngologists (78.7%) would complete the staging work-up and begin treatment. If the same patient was referred with an FNA that demonstrated non-specific inflammation, most oncologists (91.0%) and otolaryngologists (94.4%) would biopsy the mass. Conclusion Otolaryngologists and pediatric oncologists differ in their initial approach to diagnosing head and neck masses in children, yet they both would recommend treating a patient with a positive FNA. This highlights important differences in the diagnostic process depending on which provider sees the patient first. Further studies assessing the sensitivity and specificity are needed to determine the true diagnostic yield of FNAs in the assessment of head and neck masses in children and adolescents, especially with increasing need for molecular and genomic profiling.
The life aquatic in high relief: shifts in the physical and biological characteristics of alpine lakes along an elevation gradient in the Rocky Mountains, USA

Rapidly occurring environmental changes in alpine lakes highlight the importance of better understanding the ecological structure and function associated with these systems. Previous research has identified how the physical characteristics of lakes change as a function of landscape position, but comparatively little is known about shifts in the biotic community across mountain regions. In 2016, we sampled 19 lakes across an elevation gradient (2480–3550 m a.s.l.) within the Rocky Mountains, USA, to evaluate how both the abiotic characteristics of lakes and their planktonic biological communities covaried with elevation. Based on generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs), increases in elevation were associated with decreases in most nutrient concentrations (with the exception of nitrate), dissolved organic carbon, water temperature and lake stratification. Conversely, elevation increases were positively related to nitrate concentrations and water clarity. Extending this analysis to the biological community, we found that higher-elevation lakes exhibited lower phytoplankton and zooplankton densities, whereas elevation associated positively with average zooplankton size. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that the alpine environment acts as a strong niche filter, limiting the quantity and diversity of taxa to groups capable of tolerating the short growing season, high flushing rate, strong variation in interannual precipitation, intense ultraviolet radiation exposure, and lower resource availability associated with such habitats.
Glosa aprobująca do wyroku TK z dnia 7 marca 2018 r., sygnatura akt K 2/17

The subject of this gloss is a landmark ruling of the Constitutional Tribunal (CK) regarding one of the institutions of antiquity - preclusion. These issues in Polish administrative law are still controversial, and the views often differ significantly. The voted judgment deserves attention because it has not been explicitly stated in Polish jurisprudence for a long time that the rules in force in civil (general) law cannot be directly applied in public (special) law. CK argues that the justification of the institution of antiquity cannot be identical in public law as in private law, because in the first the legal relations are vertical and in the second horizontal. The indicated inequality of participants in the legal relationship and the possession of a professional clerical apparatus caring for the interests of the State, including property, means that the classic justification of the institution of antiquity, in particular the stabilizing and evidentiary function, are not a sufficient justification for using the preclusion. This is all the more justified when public law interference in property rights occurs without due warranty rights.
Rainfall anomalies are a significant driver of cropland expansion

Rainfall anomalies have long occupied center stage in policy discussions, and understanding their impacts on agricultural production has become more important as climate change intensifies. However, the global scale of rainfall-induced productivity shocks on changes in cropland is yet to be quantified. Here we identify how rainfall anomalies impact observed patterns of cropped areas at a global scale by leveraging locally determined unexpected variations in rainfall. Employing disaggregated panel data at the grid level, we find that repeated dry anomalies lead to an increase in cropland expansion in developing countries. No discernible effects are detected from repeated wet events. That these effects are confined to developing countries, which are often dominated by small-holder farmers, implies that they may be in response to reduced yields. The estimates suggest that overall, in developing countries, dry anomalies account for ∼9% of the rate of cropland expansion over the past two decades. We perform several tests to check for consistency and robustness of this relationship. First, using forest cover as an alternative measure, we find comparable reductions in forest cover in the same regions where cropland expands due to repeated dry anomalies. Second, we test the relationship in regions where yields are buffered from rainfall anomalies by irrigation infrastructure and find that the impact on cropland expansion is mitigated, providing further support for our results. Since cropland expansion is a significant driver of deforestation, these results have important implications for forest loss and environmental services.
Theorizing financial extraction: The curious case of telephone profits in the Los Angeles county jails:

Existing models of financial extraction in the criminal justice system are applied to the case of profitable telephone contracts in the Los Angeles County jails during the mid-1990s. The case exemp...
Fear of Crime on Community Engagement: Nonadditive and Nonlinear Effects by Gender

In this article, we propose that fear of crime has nonadditive and curvilinear effects on community engagement, and that this relationship varies by gender. We test our propositions utilizing the 2...
Perceptions of Maternal and Neonatal Care Practices in Uganda

Francoise Cromer National Conference of Black Political Scientists 2019 Women’s Health Perceptions of Maternal and Neonatal Care Practices in Uganda The Ministry of Health Republic of Uganda and the World Health Organization continue to research why maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality remain high in Uganda despite efforts to reduce them and their underreporting with increased hospital infrastructure, medical equipment, and trained personnel (2012, 2017). In addition, perspectives have linked the incidence of low birth weight, maternal complications, and short gestation to maternal and neonatal mortality (Arunda MO, Agardh A, and Asamoah BO et. al. 2018). In January 2019 I will visit a neonatal acute care unit of a City Council Hospital in Uganda, East Africa for a day of service. The maternal mortality rate in Uganda in 2016 was 336 per 100,000 live births while in the United States in 2018 it was less than 21 per 100,000 live births (Ministry of Health Republic of Uganda 2017; America’s Health Rankings, United Health Foundation 2018). The World Health Organization’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2016-2030 is to reduce maternal mortality to less than 70 women for every 100,000 live births. My paper will contribute to the literature on maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality that pays special attention to the types of care mothers report having received during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and after childbirth, and whether the care was received in their communities or in medical facilities (Waiswa P, Peterson SS, Namazzi G et al. 2012; Lawn JE, Blencowe H, Oza S, et al. 2014; Waiswa P, Pariyo G, Kallander K et al. 2015b; Ekirapa-Kiracho, E et. al. 2017). I will interview mothers who are patients and/or whose neonates, or newborns less than four weeks in age, are patients, about their perceptions of the care they received. The interview protocol is qualitative with open ended questions on care during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and after childbirth. Data will be coded and analyzed thematically. Neonatal mortality (death between 0-27 days of life) in Uganda in 2016 was 27 per 1,000 live births and in the United States in 2018 was 3.9 per 1,000 live births (Ministry of Health Republic of Uganda 2017; America’s Health Rankings, United Health Foundation 2018). In conclusion, focusing on patients perceptions of the care they received will shed light on possible interventions that might lead to continued improvement in the quality of care to mothers and newborns while reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
The Current Status of Concussion Assessment Scales: A Critical Analysis Review.

» Concussion is a complex pathophysiologic process that affects the brain; it is induced by biomechanical forces, with alteration in mental status with or without loss of consciousness. » Concussion assessment tools may be broadly categorized into (1) screening tests such as the SAC (Standardized Assessment of Concussion), the BESS (Balance Error Scoring System), and the King-Devick (KD) test; (2) confirmatory tests including the SCAT (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool), the ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), and the VOMS (Vestibular Oculomotor Screening); and (3) objective examinations such as brain network activation (BNA) analysis, imaging studies, and physiologic markers. » The KD, child SCAT3 (cSCAT3), child ImPACT (cImPACT), and VOMS tests may be used to evaluate for concussion in the pediatric athlete. » Future work with BNA, functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, and serum biomarkers may provide more objective assessment of concussion, neurologic injury, and subsequent recovery.
Burkitt Lymphoma Presenting as a Paraneoplastic Demyelinating Disorder in a Child

In adults, lymphomas have been associated with paraneoplastic syndromes that cause cranial nerve palsies, polyneuropathies, and paraplegias. These have been less frequently reported in children. We describe a pediatric patient who initially presented with palsy of her left third cranial nerve and bilateral ptosis. Initial diagnosis was concerning for myasthenia gravis, but after additional diagnostic evaluation, she was found to have acute motor axonal neuropathy. Cerebrospinal fluid studies were consistent with a diagnosis of Burkitt lymphoma. We discuss the importance of considering primary oncologic diagnoses in acute neurologic disorders with unusual presentations.
DD54: Projektizismus und Unwirksamkeit (Oktober 2007)

„Wir haben insgesamt uber 100 Projekte, die eine Verhaltensveranderung in unserer Organisation zum Ziel haben und einen tief greifenden Kulturwandel einleiten.“ So beginnt das Desaster jedes Mal. Die Projekte werden durchgefuhrt und bleiben wirkungslos, eben weil sie einzelne Projekte sind. Kultur aber ist nicht die Summe von Projekten. Manchmal geht meine Trauer in Zorn uber. Hilft auch nichts. Die Leute, die Kulturen verandern, mussten wissen, was Kultur ist.
Succinic Thiokinase V. PREPARATION OF LABELED SUBSTRATES, THEIR BINDINGS TO THE ENZYME, AND ISOTOPE EXCHANGE STUDIES

Abstract Methods for the preparation of guanosine triphosphate-γ-32P, 3H-coenzyme A, and 14C-succinyl-3H-CoA are described. Various forms of succinic thiokinase from pig heart are prepared and isolated. They include the phosphorylated enzyme, the enzyme-bound CoA, and the enzyme-bound succinyl-CoA. From the amounts of those substrates bound to the enzyme, it is concluded that a molecule of the enzyme has at least two, and probably four, binding sites (presumably also catalytic centers). The enzyme catalyzes the 14C-GDP exchange with GTP requiring Mg++, 32P-inorganic phosphate exchange with GTP requiring Mg++ and CoA, and the exchanges of 14C-succinate and 3H-CoA with succinyl-CoA in the presence of Mg++ ions. These isotope exchanges and the occurrence of various intermediates are in general agreement with the previously suggested reaction mechanism consisting of three partial reactions and two high energy forms of the enzyme, succinic thiokinase ∼ P and succinic thiokinase ∼ CoA. However, a number of considerations are presented which must be clarified further before a definitive conclusion is reached. Incidental to the succinic thiokinase work, the occurrence of a phosphorylated intermediate of nucleoside diphosphokinase from pig heart has been found.
The StarLight formation-flying interferometer system architecture

The StarLight project, formerly known as ST3 and scheduled for a 6 month mission in 2006, will demonstrate the new technologies of spaceborne long-baseline optical interferometry and precision formation flying necessary for the Terrestrial Planet Finder and other future astrophysics missions. A primary goal is to fully characterize the interferometer capabilities by obtaining 100-500 fringe visibility amplitude measurements for stars in the band 600-1000 nm with a variety of stellar visibilities (0.2-1.0), stellar magnitudes (Mv = 2-5), and baselines (B = 30-125 meters). Interferometry on StarLight will be performed both in a 1 meter fixed-baseline combiner-only mode and in a formation-flying mode, in which two spacecraft operate in a novel Parabolic Geometry Interferometer configuration. The Interferometer System will consist of the following subsystems, each of which will have components on both the combiner and collector spacecraft: stellar, metrology, optical bench, electronics, and flight software. This paper provides an overview of the Interferometer System driving requirements, its overall architecture, and subsystems.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Antibodies: Comparison of a Tissue Culture Microneutralization Test with the Assay in Suckling Mice

A microneutralization test for foot-and-mouth disease virus antibodies is described and compared to the standard mouse test.
The plant estrogen, coumestrol, as an agent affecting hypophysial gonadotropic function

Mice bearing intrasplenic ovarian autografts were treated with coumestrol (500 μg/gm diet) and estradiol-17 β (0.5 μg/day) for 14 days. The splenic grafts of all controls were in various stages of follicular development, whereas some of those receiving estradiol and coumestrol became luteinized. The gonadotropes in the pars distalis of controls were abundant and degranulated. Few PAS-positive gonadotropes were left after estradiol treatment, showing that the dose used was capable of inhibiting production of gonadotropin. Coumestrol was thought to block release of gonadotropin rather than production since gonadotropes were plentiful and filled with PAS-positive material. Dietary coumestrol for 10 days at several lower levels produced estrogenic effects on the vagina and uterus of immature mice. However, none of the diets depressed ovarian growth, and it was concluded that no significant inhibition of gonadotropin occurred under these conditions. In general, the results of this study indicate that coumestrol has physiological effects on hypophysial function, relatively large doses are required for antigonadotropic effects, and its primary effect on gonadotropes is to inhibit release.
Characterization of an anaphylactoid reaction to omalizumab.

Background The novel humanized murine monoclonal antibody omalizumab prevents binding of human IgE to its high-affinity receptor. A contraindication to therapy with omalizumab is allergy to the medication or previous immediate-type hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis to omalizumab or similar medications. Objective To determine whether a 32-year-old woman with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and idiopathic chronic urticaria and angioedema with anaphylactoid reactions to omalizumab could tolerate the medication in a desensitization protocol. Methods Omalizumab was administered after pretreatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, 600 mg) while the patient was closely monitored in an intensive care unit. Results Omalizumab was well tolerated using this protocol, but a serum sickness-like reaction developed that required discontinuation of the medication after the seventh dose. Conclusions Our experience suggests that some patients with anaphylactoid reactions to omalizumab can tolerate the medication when pretreated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs but that a serum sickness-like illness may develop, requiring discontinued use of the medication.
Prediction of Length of Stay Following Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

There have been published risk stratification approaches to predict complications following percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). However, a formal assessment of such approaches with respect to predicting length of stay (LOS) is lacking. Therefore, we sought to assess the performance of, an easy-to-use, tree-structured prognostic classification model in predicting LOS among patients with elective PCI. The study is based on the New York State PCI database. The model was developed on data for 1999-2000, consisting of 67,766 procedures. Validation was carried out, with respect to LOS, using data for 2001-2002, consisting of 79,545 procedures. The risk groups identified by the model exhibited a strong progressively increasing relative risk pattern of longer LOS. The predicted average LOS ranged from 3 to 9 days. The performance of this model was comparable to other published risk scores. In conclusion, the tree-structured prognostic classification is a model which can be easily applied to aid practitioners early on in their decision process regarding the need for extra resources required for the management of more complicated patients following PCI, or to justify to payors the extra costs required for the management of patients who have required extended observation and care after PCI.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NATIONWIDE AMBULATORY CARDIOVASCULAR REGISTRY: AN UPDATE ON PINNACLE-AF

In 2012 the PINNACLE Registry expanded its focus on AF, requiring 100 additional data elements. Cardiologist participation in expanded data collection realistically requires minimal workflow disruption. Reducing disruption requires sourcing data from heterogeneous HIT systems which have the