cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sociocultural characteristics, obesity and inflammatory biomarkers in Puerto Rican toddlers born in New York City

Background In the USA, Puerto Rican children have a higher prevalence of asthma than other Latino ethnicities, and acculturation is one of hypothesized reasons for this difference. We examined associations between sociocultural characteristics and serum leptin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and body mass index (BMI), and further, among hsCRP, leptin levels, BMI percentiles, and allergic sensitization in 2-year-old children. Methods IgE antibodies, leptin, and hsCRP concentrations were measured in serum from Puerto Rican toddlers (n = 143) born in New York City with a maternal history of allergy and/or asthma. Demographic and home characteristics questionnaires were administered to the mother, postpartum and two years later. Children's weight and height were measured to determine BMI percentiles. Results More girls (60%) had leptin levels above the median compared with boys (37%) (p = 0.0063). Leptin was positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.25; p = 0.0042). Children in daycare were more likely to be obese (40% vs. 24% p < 0.06). Maternal birthplace was significantly associated with children's leptin but not with hsCRP. Leptin levels were lower for children whose mothers were born on the US mainland (GM = 2.5 ng/ml, 95% CI [2.2–2.7]) compared with those whose mothers were born in Puerto Rico or another country (GM = 3.2 ng/ml, 95% CI [2.2–3.9], t-test p = 0.01). Mothers born in another country were more likely than those born in the US mainland or Puerto Rico to have obese children (60% vs. 26% p < 0.02). Leptin, hsCRP, and BMI percentile were not associated with sensitization to any of the measured inhalant allergens or total IgE. Conclusion Even at a very young age, some acculturation factors were associated with biomarkers and anthropometric measures of obesity among this Puerto Rican pediatric population. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the association of mother's birth place with child BMI and leptin as early as 24 months.
Liquid-liquid distribution in reversed micellar systems

Abstract The equilibrium distribution of a hydrophilic solute ( M z + between an aqueous phase and a reversed micellar organic phase (consisting of a surfactant HA with aggregation number x , and dissolved in a hydrocarbon diluent) is analyzed quantitatively by treating the reversed micelles as a pseudophase. It is shown that when the M—A complex is strongly solubilized by the micellar pseudophase, the distribution coefficient ( D ) has a first-order dependence on the concentration of micellized surfactant ( C s ). On the other hand, when the M—A complex is not solubilized by the reversed micelles, a plot of log D versus log C s has a slope of ( z/x ); in this case the monomeric species HA is the active extractant and any effect that decreases surfactant aggregation (e.g. low aggregation number, small aggregation equilibrium constant) leads to an increase in the distribution coefficient.
Doubly tethered tertiary amide linked and ionically bonded diproline chiral stationary phases

Oligoproline chiral stationary phase (CSP) is a new class peptide chiral stationary phase. Many proline chiral stationary phases with different proline chain lengths and linkers have been prepared and evaluated. However, the doubly tethered and ionic type linkers have not been adequately investigated. In this study, covalently and ionically bonded chiral stationary phases with doubly tethered linker were prepared and characterized. The new covalently bonded doubly tethered diproline CSP was applied successfully to resolve various enantiomers of acidic, basic, and neutral compounds with phenyl, naphthyl, anthryl, or similarly sized groups. The enantiorecognition performances of singly and doubly tethered diproline CSPs were comparable. Variation of the type and content of organic modifiers in hexane or heptane mobile phase showed that the branch alcohols such as 2-propanol and 2-butanol, 1,2-dichloroethane, methyl tert-butyl ether, and ethyl acetate in the mobile phase enhanced chiral separation. End-capping on doubly tethered diproline CSP did not always improve the separation factor and resolution. Due to the rigid structure of the double tether, the enantioseparation ability of ionically bonded diproline CSP was well expressed to some analytes.
An instrument to measure velocity/electrical conductivity of arc plasmajets

A transducer has been developed which measures the product of electrical conductivity and velocity (o"u) of conducting gases flowing along its axis The instrument was calibrated by moving graphite rods through the transducer By using thin-wall, stainless-steel tubing, the influence function for the transducer was also obtained Tests were run on two different arc plasmajet facilities Values of cru ranged from 0 02 to 9 megamho/sec
Reconciling theory and empirics on the role of unemployment in mortgage default

Abstract Empirical models of mortgage default typically find that the influence of unemployment is negligible compared to other well known risk factors such as high borrower leverage or low borrower FICO scores. This is at odds with theory, which assigns a critical role to unemployment in the decision to stop payment on a mortgage. We help reconcile this divergence by employing a novel empirical strategy involving simulated unemployment histories to measure the severity of attenuation bias in loan-level estimations of default risk due to a borrower becoming unemployed. Attenuation bias results because individual data on unemployment status is unobserved, requiring that a market-wide unemployment rate be used as a proxy. Attenuation is extreme, with our results suggesting that the use of an aggregate unemployment rate in lieu of actual borrower unemployment status results in default risk from a borrower becoming unemployed being underestimated by a factor more than 100. In addition, our analysis indicates that adding the unemployment rate as a proxy for the missing borrower-specific unemployment indicator does not improve the accuracy of the estimated model over the specification without the proxy variable included. Hence, aggregate portfolio-level risk estimates for mortgage guarantors such as FHA also are not improved. These views represent those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York or the Federal Reserve System. This is a revised version of a paper that previously circulated under the title “Unemployment and Unobserved Credit Risk in the FHA Single Family Mortgage Insurance Fund (NBER Working Paper No. 18880). John Grigsby provided excellent research assistance. We appreciate the helpful comments of Andrew Haughwout, Wilbert van der Klaauw, the editor (Stuart Rosenthal) and referees, but remain responsible for any errors.
Current-Induced Degradation of Nickel Ohmic Contacts to SiC

The stability of Ni ohmic contacts to p-type SiC under high current density was investigated. A test structure adapted from the four circular contacts method allowed for vertical stressing and the ability to extract a pre- and post-stressed specific contact resistance. The accuracy of the measured specific contact resistance was verified experimentally through comparisons with more widely used methods and the use of computer modeling. The growth of voids initially produced during the high-temperature ohmic contact anneal was found to be the degradation mechanism, effectively decreasing the area of the contact.
“Imaging” the cross section of oceanic lithosphere: The development and future of electrical microresistivity logging through scientific ocean drilling

Abstract A detailed understanding of the architecture of volcanic and magmatic lithologies present within the oceanic lithosphere is essential to advance our knowledge of the geodynamics of spreading ridges and subduction zones. Undertaking sub-meter scale observations of oceanic lithosphere is challenging, primarily because of the difficulty in direct continuous sampling (e.g., by scientific ocean drilling) and the limited resolution of the majority of geophysical remote sensing methods. Downhole logging data from drillholes through basement formations, when integrated with recovered core and geophysical remote sensing data, can provide new insights into crustal accretion processes, lithosphere hydrogeology and associated alteration processes, and variations in the physical properties of the oceanic lithosphere over time. Here, we introduce an alternative approach to determine the formation architecture and lithofacies of the oceanic sub-basement by using logging data, particularly utilizing downhole microresistivity imagery (e.g. Formation MicroScanner (FMS) imagery), which has the potential to become a key tool in deciphering the high-resolution internal architecture of the intact upper ocean crust. A novel ocean crust lithostratigraphy model based on meticulously deciphered lava morphology determined by in situ FMS electrofacies analysis of holes drilled during Ocean Drilling Program legs (1) advances our understanding of ocean crust formation and accretionary processes over both time and space; and (2) allows the linking of local igneous histories deciphered from the drillholes to the regional magmatic and tectonic histories. Furthermore, microresistivity imagery can potentially allow the investigation of (i) magmatic lithology and architecture in the lower ocean crust and upper mantle; and, (ii) void space abundances in crustal material and the determination of complex lithology-dependent void geometries.
Structural Studies of a Borane-Modified Phosphate Diester Linkage: Ab Initio Calculations on the Dimethylboranophosphate Anion and the Single-Crystal X-ray Structure of Its Diisopropylammonium Salt.

The dimethylboranophosphate anion was characterized by ab initio calculations and by X-ray crystallography. The 1.905 A P−BH3 bond is longer and less polar than the 1.51 A P−O bond of the analogous normal phosphate diester; the structures are otherwise quite similar. In the crystal, the phosphoryl oxygen forms hydrogen bonds with acidic protons of neighboring cations; the borane does not form hydrogen bonds. The relevance of the structure to boranophosphate nucleotide analogues is discussed.
Factor substitution among real and financial assets in Brazilian manufacturing firms

Abstract Using a translog cost function and Brazilian firm level data, this article examines the degree of substitution between inputs. The two most important results of this analysis are that liquid assets do not generally substitute for either physical capital or labor and the monetary transmission mechanism operating through the Brazilian manufacturing sector is rather weak. The outcomes suggest changes in the Brazilian money supply will elicit only small substitution of money for either labor or physical capital.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of mechanical disturbances in epoxy-impregnated superconducting coils. 1. General introduction

Abstract This section gives a general introduction to the three papers which follow. A brief discussion of the origins and mechanisms of mechanical disturbances within the windings of high performance superconducting magnets is followed by a short summary of each of these three papers.
More than Nature: Anthropologists as Interpreters of Culture for Nature-Based Tours

Anthropologists have much to offer as interpreters of cultures for tourists traveling to remote areas of the world. Often advertised as ecotours, group travel is now being offered to areas of the world that are still considered off the beaten path. With more and more travel taking place in the form of organized, guided tours, the anthropologist is in a prime position to educate travel companies and tourists concerning the populations with which they come into contact while enhancing the experience for both the tourists and the host populations. Colorful brochures advertise tours that will have a range of naturalists to guide the tourists through the natural environment in a chosen destination. Rarely do tours advertise that they have anthropologists to help tourists learn more about the local cultures. This paper explores the benefits of hiring anthropologists as tour guides for nature-based tours, using examples from the Amazon.
Knowledge problems associated with creating export zones

Although export processing zones (EPZ) have been a part of India’s development strategy since the 1960s, they have not been as successful at promoting exports and job creation as might have been hoped. Most explanations of their shortcomings focus on the poor infrastructure and bureaucratic inefficiencies that typically plague these zones. By focusing on the knowledge problems that government administrators must overcome if they are to design and manage successful EPZs, and highlighting their inevitable difficulties in overcoming these knowledge problems, this paper offers a more fundamental and compelling explanation of the poor performance of Indian EPZs than is traditionally advanced.
Who Is Qualified to Perform Laser Surgery and in What Setting

Laser and light procedures are commonly delegated to nonphysician providers. The purpose of this report is (1) to summarize the factors that determine how such delegation may occur, (2) to analyze the potential pitfalls and problems associated with delegation, and (3) to propose alternative approaches that may improve the delegation process to maximize patient safety while not unreasonably restricting nonphysician provision of laser services.
Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis Caused by Listeria monocytogenes Associated with Ascitic Fluid Lymphocytosis: A Case Report and Review of Current Empiric Therapy

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a potentially deadly complication of ascites. We describe a case of SBP caused by Listeria monocytogenes in a patient with alcoholic cirrhosis. This was associated with the unusual finding of ascitic fluid lymphocytosis, which previously had only been associated with tuberculoid or malignant ascites. Given increasing rates of cefotaxime-resistant SBP alongside the possibility of Listeriosis, the use of cefotaxime as first-line therapy in SBP should be reevaluated.
Management of Metachronous Bilateral Testis Cancer in a Patient with Pre-B Cell ALL

We present a patient with a metachronous, second testicular cancer after being diagnosed with pre-B cell ALL and receiving induction chemotherapy for a bone marrow transplant. We discuss the management of bilateral testis masses in a young patient with a hematologic malignancy as well as the role of immunosuppressive chemotherapy in developing a second cancer. This case illustrates the importance of recognizing bilateral testicular cancer early, as well as the importance of follow-up care in oncology patients including routine measurements of tumor markers. A multidisciplinary approach between medical oncology and urology, including close monitoring of the contralateral testis, remains paramount to patient care.
Comparison of intracardiac echocardiography and transesophageal echocardiography for imaging of the right and left atrial appendages

Background Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the standard for diagnosis of atrial thrombi and is performed before ablation of atrial arrhythmias. Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is routinely used during these procedures and may provide an alternative imaging modality. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare TEE and ICE for right atrial appendage (RAA) and left atrial appendage (LAA) anatomy and thrombus. Methods This prospective blinded study enrolled 71 patients with atrial arrhythmias who presented for ablation. TEE and ICE were performed simultaneously to assess the RAA and LAA for thrombi, spontaneous echo contrast, and dimensions. ICE images were acquired sequentially from the right atrium, right ventricular outflow tract, and the pulmonary artery. Results Imaging of the RAA and LAA was achieved in all 71 patients using ICE but in only in 69 patients using TEE because of inability to intubate the esophagus. A total of 4 thrombi were diagnosed (3 LAA, 1 RAA). All were detected by ICE but only 1 by TEE. Diagnostic imaging of the LAA was achieved in 71 patients (100%) with ICE and in 62 patients (87.3%) with TEE (P Conclusion ICE imaging is a viable alternative to TEE for visualization of the LAA and RAA during catheter ablation procedures.
Variability of User-Based Evaluative Standards for Backcountry Encounters

Backcountry visitors are often surveyed regarding their personal evaluative standards (or norms) for acceptable levels of encounters with other groups. In this study, backpackers at Grand Canyon National Park were asked about the acceptability of encounters at several times: at home prior to their trip, once each day during their trip, and at-home after their trip. Thus it was possible to assess spatial and temporal variability within individuals, as well as variation among individuals, in both the ability to provide a personal evaluative standard about number of encounters and the standard provided. Results suggest that backcountry visitors differentiate between zones in the Grand Canyon backcountry managed to provide diverse settings, including visitor density. However, there was substantial variation in the standards provided both among individuals and over time within individuals.
Actions of growth hormone-releasing factor and somatostatin on adenylate cyclase and growth hormone release in rat anterior pituitary☆

The interaction of growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) and somatostatin (SRIF) on adenylate cyclase activity and growth hormone release was investigated in pituitary homogenates and 2-day cultured rat anterior pituitary cells. GRF stimulated growth hormone release by about 3-fold (ED50 1.6 X 10(-12) M) and caused a rapid 15-fold increase in cyclic AMP production (ED50 6.0 X 10(-12) M). The increase in cyclic AMP was due to direct stimulation of adenylate cyclase by GRF, which caused a 4-fold increase in the activity of the enzyme measured in anterior pituitary homogenates. GRF-induced cyclic AMP formation and GRF-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity were maximally inhibited to the extent of about 50% by 10(-8) M somatostatin. In contrast, GRF-stimulated growth hormone release was completely inhibited by somatostatin (ID50 3.2 X 10(-11) M), suggesting a second site of action of somatostatin. These studies demonstrate that GRF stimulates growth hormone release via activation of adenylate cyclase and a rise in intracellular cyclic AMP. In addition, these findings indicate that the inhibitory action of somatostatin on growth hormone release is exerted at two levels, one at the level of adenylate cyclase affecting the production of cyclic AMP, and the other beyond the formation of the nucleotide, at a site which modulates the release of growth hormone from the cell.
Communication and energy efficiency in visual sensor networks for people localization

This paper addresses the communication and energy efficiency in collaborative visual sensor networks (VSNs) for people localization, a challenging computer vision problem of its own. We focus on the design of a light-weight and energy-efficient solution where people are localized based on distributed camera nodes integrating the so-called certainty map generated at each node, that records the target non-existence information within the camera's field of view. We first present a dynamic itinerary for certainty map integration where not only each sensor node transmits a very limited amount of data but that a limited number of camera nodes is involved. Then, we perform a comprehensive analytical study to evaluate communication and energy efficiency between different integration schemes, i.e., centralized and distributed integration. Based on results obtained from analytical study and real experiments, the distributed method shows effectiveness in detection accuracy as well as energy and bandwidth efficiency.
Combining Numerical Ocean Circulation Models with Satellite Observations in a Trajectory Forecast System: A Rapid Response to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill presented an unprecedented threat to the Gulf of Mexico coastline and living marine resources, and possibly to that of the southeastern USA. Needed for mitigation efforts and to guide scientific investigations was a system for tracking the oil, both at the surface and at depth. We report on such system, implemented immediately upon spill onset, by marshaling numerical model and satellite remote sensing resources available from existing coastal ocean observing activities. Surface oil locations inferred from satellite imagery were used to initialize the positions of the virtual particles in an ensemble of trajectory models, and the particles were tracked using forecast surface currents, with new particles added to simulate the continual release of oil from the well. Three dimensional subsurface tracking were also performed from the well site location at several different depths. Timely trajectory forecasts were used to plan scientific surveys and other spill response activities.
Political Correctness and Multiculturalism: Who Supports PC?

What is the nature and content of political correctness and multiculturalism? Are both these movements solely products of left-wing politics masquerading as an effort to create more racial, sexual, ethnic, and religious diversity throughout social institutions in the name of fairness and equity or are these movements addressing legitimate concerns about tolerance and equality? What of right-wing allegations that information used by proponents of these two movements is biased? What are the social and political implications of these movements and the relationship between economics and multiculturalism? Finally, why is there such controversy surrounding these movements, and who is in fact the opposition? These are some of the questions addressed in this essay.
Recombination and scintillation processes in

This paper reports spectroscopic and scintillation studies of the well established scintillator material . Standard measurements of luminescence emission and excitation spectra have been accompanied by investigations of thermoluminescence and scintillation light yield over a wide temperature range, and by decay measurements under pulsed gamma and VUV excitations at various temperatures. These measurements are interpreted in the framework of a model that includes a recombination centre and a number of electron traps. We demonstrate that some unusual and largely unexplained features of the scintillator, such as a substantial disparity between scintillation and radiative decay times, the presence of slow components in scintillation decays, and a strong temperature variation of scintillation light yield between 150 and 300 K, have their origin in the processes of charge carrier capture and emission by electron traps. Although the nature of these traps remains elusive, most of the trap parameters, such as frequency factors, energy depths, and relative populations, have been estimated. This makes it possible to predict the characteristics of trap-free material and thereby the potential improvements that could be achieved.
An assertion inventory for use in assessment and research

The Assertion Inventory is a 40 item self-report inventory which permits respondents to note for each item their degree of discomfort, their probability of engaging in the behavior, and situations they would like to handle more assertively. Normative data from a college population as well as data from women taking part in assertion training groups are included. Comparative distributions of these populations over four combinations of response probability and discomfort scores are presented as well as reliability and validity data. The value of the Inventory both in clinical settings and in research is discussed.
"Quantum coaxial cables" for solar energy harvesting.

Type II core−shell nanowires based on III−V and II−VI semiconductors are designed to provide the highly desirable but not readily available featureefficient charge separationand concurrently addres...
Optimal smoothing of direct estimates of the power spectrum

In this paper we demonstrate how the task of spectral density estimation by direct methods may be posed as that of solving a simple optimal smoothing problem. A criterion functional is considered which involves a smoothness frequency domain term and a fidelity time domain term.
Infectious Mononucleosis in Active Patients: Definitive Answers to Common Questions.

IN BRIEF: Infectious mononucleosis may account for considerable illness, especially among adolescents and young adults. Although the disorder was well described more than 70 years ago as involving fever, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy, questions often arise about diagnosis and management. Because primary infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can lead to diverse disease manifestation and complications, physicians must be well-versed in the disorder's epidemiology and pathophysiology. New information assesses the reliability of heterophil antibody testing and the role of EBV-specific antibody testing, and addresses issues of management, including corticosteroids, antiviral drugs, and restriction from athletic participation. Most athletes can return to sports after a minimum of 4 weeks, provided the spleen is not palpable.
Proximal and Distal Predictors of Homophobia: Framing the Multivariate Roots of Outgroup Rejection1

A proximal-distal theoretical framework was developed to examine the multivariate roots of homophobia. Using data from a sample of 288 undergraduates who had participated in a computer-assisted panel study over a three-year period, the effects on homophobia of distal and proximal family factors (e. g., parental education and family environment), distal and proximal individual factors (e. g., personality constructs and current beliefs), and proximal individual-situational factors (e. g., acquaintance with homosexuals) were tested in regression analyses. Both analyses employing sets of variables varying in proximity to the homophobic attitude and hierarchical regression employing variables contributing significantly in each set supported the proposed framework. All sets predicted significantly when regressed separately on homophobia; the sets containing the distal factors contributed most weakly, and the sets containing the proximal factors contributed most strongly. In hierarchical regression analysis, this pattern maintained such that the incremental increase in r2 decreased with the addition of each more distal set, with the most distal factors failing to contribute significantly to the prediction. The importance of study findings for attitude change efforts is discussed.
Lectures on Economic Growth. By Robert E. Lucas Jr. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2002. Pp. xi, 204. $49.95.

In the 1970s Robert Lucas's research revolutionized the study of business cycles, and in 1995 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Science for this work. However, in 1985 he had already decided that, “I did not look forward to the prospect of spending the latter half of my career trying to hang on to what I had done in the first half” (p. 2). Thus, he embarked on a new task: understanding economic growth.This book collects Lucas's writing (from 1985 to 1997) on economic growth. In his words, its “general theme … is the attempt to adapt modern growth theory, originally developed to describe the behavior of the industrialized economies, to obtain a unified understanding of rich and poor economies alike in a world of vast income and growth rate differences” (p. 1). This theme is carried through an introduction and five chapters, four of which have been published previously as journal articles.
The Concept of Media Accountability Reconsidered

The concept of media accountability is widely used but remains inadequately defined in the literature and often is restricted to a 1-dimensional interpretation. This study explores perceptions of accountability as manifestations of claims to responsibility, based on philosophical conceptions of the 2 terms, and suggests media accountability be more broadly understood as a dynamic of interaction between a given medium and the value sets of individuals or groups receiving media messages. The shape-shifting nature of the concept contributes to the volatility of debate surrounding conflicting notions of press freedom and responsibility.
Application of an Implicit Redundant Genetic Algorithm for Structural Damage Identification of Flexible Structures

Detecting structural damage is critical in assessing current condition, calculating remaining life, and developing rehabilitation strategies for existing structures. Many structural damage identification methods (SDIM) use vibration data to localize and identify deterioration of structural members. Due to practical constraints, such as cost, number of input channels of the measuring device, or lack of access of parts of the structure, the actual number of sensors used to collect measurement data is much smaller then the number of possible sensor locations. Therefore, the inverse problem associated with structural damage identification is ill formulated and often difficult to solve explicitly. This research addresses the problem of structural damage detection using the linear vibration information contained in frequency response functions (FRF). A structural damage identification method (SDIM) is proposed, which minimizes the error between the analytically computed and measured vibration signatures of structures. The SDIM is formulated as an unconstrained optimization problem, which is solved using genetic algorithms (GA). The implicit redundant representation (IRR) of genes allows the formulation of unstructured optimization problems in which the number of unknown variables is indefinite. The IRR GA efficiently exploits the unstructured nature of structural damage detection by allowing the number of assumed damaged elements to change throughout the optimization. The accuracy and efficiency of SDIM is increased when the IRR GA is used instead of the simple fixed representation GA. The procedure is applied to flexible structures to show that the proposed SDIM is capable of identifying damages in structures often used in the nuclear industry. Noisy measurements are also considered in the simulations to investigate their effect on the proposed SDIM accuracy. Test case results using different measurement noise levels show that the IRR GA has superior performance over the standard fixed representation GA in correctly identifying both the location and extent of damages.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
VIBRATIONAL OVERTONE SPECTROSCOPY OF CYCLOHEPTATRIENE

The spectrum of the first through fifth vibrational overtone absorptions of cycloheptatriene is reported. The spectrum for the first and second overtones was recorded using a liquid sample, while the third, fourth, and fifth overtones were recorded for gaseous samples. A method is developed using the correlation between ab initio CH bond lengths and the local mode transition energy to predict the experimental spectra for the third, fourth, and fifth vibrational overtone spectra. These predictions were used to assign the absorption peaks for the “boat” conformer of cycloheptatriene in the gaseous spectrum. Progressions belonging to the olefinic and methylenic CH bond stretches are identified for both the gaseous and liquid data.
Involvement of opioid peptides from casein on reticular motility and digesta passage in steers

Abstract Experiment 1 determined the effects of incremental abomasal casein infusion on reticular motility and digesta passage of mature steers in a 4 × 4 Latin square study. Casein solutions were infused at 0, 1.25, 2.5, and 5.0% (wt/vol) for 3h at 16.7 ml/min. Steers were fed for maintenance every 2h. Casein resulted in a linear decrease in frequency, duration, and amplitude of reticular contractions measured manometrically. Total area of reticular contractions from physiographic tracings decreased 10.4 to 18.5%. Ruminal DM contents decreased 4.5 to 7.5%. Experiment 2 characterized the effects of casein on reticular contractions to be mediated by opioid peptides. Steers were infused abomasally (4h) with either a 5% (wt/vol) solution of casein or its hydrolysate with or without a predose of naltrexone as an opiate antagonist (.5mg/kg of BW) in a 2 × 2 factorial. Both casein and hydrolysate reduced frequency and duration of reticular contractions. Hydrolysate decreased contraction frequency within 30min of infusion and 60min prior to effects of casein. Naltrexone reversed the effects of casein and accentuated the effects of hydrolysate. Ruminal liquid outflow was decreased 19.7% with hydrolysate. Postruminal infusion of casein or its hydrolysate resulted in casomorphin-like activity on reticular motility and digesta passage.
Relation of age and apolipoprotein E to cognitive function in Down syndrome adults

TO test the cognitive effects of aging and apolipoprotein E (APOE) in individuals at high risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD), we assessed APOE genotypes and performance on a battery of neuropsychological tests in 41 non-demented, Down syndrome (DS) adults. Old DS subjects (ages 41–61 years) showed poorer memory and orientation scores than young DS adults (ages 22–38 years), but the groups did not differ in other measures after we controlled for intellectual function. Language ability was inversely related to APOE genotype, even after age was controlled for, with the presence of the e2 allele corresponding to better language skills than e4. Age-related cognitive changes in non-demented DS adults are consistent with the early effects of AD. The relationship between basic linguistic skills and APOE genotype supports this genetic factor in influencing the development of dementia and AD neuropathology in DS.
Globally exponential controller/observer for tracking in robots with DC motor dynamics and only link position measurement

We consider the tracking problem of a multi-degree of freedom rigid-link, revolutejointed robotic manipulator with actuator (DC brush motor) dynamics and only link position measurement. No velocities are measured; no currents are measured. The control voltage is discontinuous, however only at isolated times, not in sliding modes. We prove the time-isolation and the global-exponential convergence. This is the first global-exponential result for this plant; it is also the first global-asymptotic result for this plant.
An Adenosine Agonist Increases Blood Flow and Density of Capillary Branches in the Optic Tectum of Xenopus laevis Tadpoles

Objective: To test the hypothesis that adenosine can increase capillary densities in developing brain tissue.Methods: Transparent tadpoles of albino Xenopus laevis were exposed to adenosine agonists, mainly 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA), and to antagonists, mainly 8-phenyltheophylline (8PT) in aquarium water. After 2 weeks in drugs, networks of blood vessels on the dorsal surface of the optic tectum were scanned in vivo by videomicroscopy. Densities of surface capillaries and venules, of deep branches, and of deep perfused capillaries were calculated.Results: NECA initially dilated brain blood vessels and chronically increased blood flow by a simple subjective index. 8PT diminished diameters and prevented the subjective flow increase. Chronic 3 μM NECA significantly increased densities of total deep branches from pial vessels into the tectum.Conclusions: In an in vivo amphibian assay, NECA dilated brain capillaries and venules and increased their flow and density. Adenosine was present chemically ...
Somatostatin‐containing neurons in rat organotypic hippocampal slice cultures: Light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry

Light and electron microscopic immunocytochemical techniques were used to study the interneuron population staining for somatostatin (SRIF) in cultured slices of rat hippocampus. The SRIF immunoreactive somata were most dense in stratum oriens of areas CA1 and CA3, and in the dentate hilus. Somatostatin immunoreactive cells in areas CA1 and CA3 were characteristically fusiform in shape, with dendrites that extended both parallel to and into the alveus. The axonal plexus in areas CA1 and CA3 was most dense in stratum lacunosum-moleculare and in stratum pyramidale. Electron microscopic analysis of this area revealed that the largest number of symmetric synaptic contacts from SRIF immunoreactive axons were onto pyramidal cell somata and onto dendrites in stratum lacunosum-molecular. In the dentate gyrus, SRIF somata and dendrites were localized in the hilus. Hilar SRIF immunoreactive neurons were fusiform in shape and similar in size to those seen in CA1 and CA3. Axon collaterals coursed throughout the hilus, projected between the granule cells and into the outer molecular layer. The highest number of SRIF synaptic contacts in the dentate gyrus were seen on granule cell dendrites in the outer molecular layer. Synaptic contacts were also observed on hilar neurons and granular cell somata. SRIF synaptic profiles were seen on somata and dendrites of interneurons in all regions. The morphology and synaptic connectivity of SRIF neurons in hippocampal slice cultures appeared generally similar to intact hippocampus.
Pharmacist care plans and documentation of follow-up before the Iowa Pharmaceutical Case Management Program

ABSTRACT Objectives To document drug therapy problems and their causes and assess pharmacist follow-up of patients with identified drug therapy problems. Design Cross-sectional analysis. Setting Iowa. Participants 160 pharmacists who submitted 754 pharmaceutical care plans in an effort to qualify for participation in the Iowa Pharmaceutical Case Management program. Interventions and Main Outcome Measures Care plans were assessed for drug therapy problems and causes and for documentation of pharmacist follow-up (actual, none, or intent to follow up). Results Pharmacists documented a wide variety of drug therapy problems and causes, including adverse drug reactions (20.1% of care plans), need for additional drug therapy (18.9%), lack of patient adherence to therapy (16.3%), incorrect medication being prescribed (14.1%), and drug dose too high (10.0%). Pharmacist follow-up with patients was not optimal, with 31% of care plans providing documentation of actual follow-up. Another 42.2% of plans indicated that the pharmacist intended to contact the patient for follow-up but either did not do so or did not record the intervention. No actual follow-up or intent to follow up was recorded in 26.8% of care plans. Pharmacists practicing in independent pharmacies followed up with patients more frequently than those in other settings (36.4% of care plans, compared with 22.7%, 23.2%, and 28.4% for chain, clinic, and franchise pharmacies). Pharmacists were more likely to follow up when the identified problem involved drug safety rather than effectiveness (36.2% versus 28.3% of care plans). Conclusion Documentation of pharmacist follow-up with patients was less than optimal. In addition to identifying drug therapy problems and causes, pharmacists must complete the care continuum through documentation of patient monitoring and follow-up to transform the philosophy and vision of the pharmaceutical care concept into a practice of pharmacy recognized and rewarded by patients and payers.
Hydrodynamic stability in plane Poiseuille flow with finite amplitude disturbances

A general method for studying two-dimensional problems in hydrodynamic stability is presented and applied to the classical problem of predicting instability in plane Poiseuille flow. The disturbance stream function is expanded in a Fourier series in the axial space dimension which, on substitution into the Navier-Stokes equation, leads to a system of parabolic partial differential equations in the coefficient functions. An efficient, stable and accurate numerical method is presented for solving these equations. It is demonstrated that the numerical process is capable of accurate reproduction of known results from the linear theory of hydrodynamic stability.Disturbances that are stable according to linear theory are shown to become unstable with the addition of finite amplitude effects. This seems to be the first work of quantitative value for disturbances of moderate and larger amplitudes. A relationship between critical amplitude and Reynolds number is reported, the form of which indicates the existence of an absolute critical Reynolds number below which an arbitrary disturbance cannot be made unstable, no matter how large its initial amplitude. The critical curve shows significantly less effect of amplitude than do those obtained by earlier workers.
Self-efficacy as a predictor of weight change and behavior change in the PREMIER trial.

Abstract Objectives Determine whether self-efficacy independently predicted weight loss in a behavioral intervention and explore factors that influence the path between self-efficacy and weight change. Design Secondary analysis of the PREMIER trial, a randomized controlled trial testing effects of lifestyle interventions on blood pressure. Setting Four academic medical centers. Participants PREMIER recruited adults (n = 810) with pre-hypertension/stage 1 hypertension, not currently receiving medication. This analysis excluded participants in the control arm, resulting in n= 537. Interventions Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: advice only, established lifestyle recommendations, or established lifestyle recommendations plus Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension dietary pattern. Main Outcome Measures Self-efficacy (dietary self-efficacy [DSE], exercise self-efficacy [ESE]), dietary intake, fitness. Analysis Pearson correlations, 1-way analysis of variance, mediation analyses. Results Despite an overall decrease in DSE/ESE, change in DSE/ESE significantly predicted weight change at 6 ( β = –.21, P β = –.19, P β = –.19, P β = –.35, P Conclusions and Implications Changes in DSE/ESE were not associated with behavior change as hypothesized. Additional research is needed to identify mediators between self-efficacy and adoption of behaviors that influence weight loss.
An arginine analog inhibits responses of both the endothelium and smooth muscle of canine in situ vein grafts.

Abstract Increased shear, pressure, and oxygen tension in vein grafts may alter production of endothelium-derived vasoactive and anti-mitogenic factors such as nitric oxide which subsequently affect development of neointimal hyperplasia. This study was designed to determine whether or not nitric oxide mediates endothelium-dependent responses in femoral in situ vein grafts. Non-reversed, canine femoral vein grafts were placed bilaterally to bypass a ligated segment of the femoral artery in dogs. After 6 weeks, the grafts were removed, cut into rings, and suspended in organ chambers for measurement of isometric force. In some rings the endothelium was removed deliberately. In the presence of indomethacin, the synthetic analog of l -arginine, l -NG-monomethyl-arginine (10−4 M; l -NMMA) did not cause a significant change in baseline tension of rings with endothelium. l -NMMA reduced only contractions of rings with endothelium to the alpha-adrenergic agonist UK 14,304. The analog also reduced maximal relaxations to the calcium-ionophore, A23187 in rings with endothelium. In addition, l -NMMA reduced relaxations of rings without endothelium to adenosine diphosphate by 35%. Positive immunostaining for nitric oxide synthase was present in both the myointima and media of histological sections of grafts. In conclusion, these results suggest that in situ vein grafts exhibit two unique properties which are unlike unoperated arteries or veins: (i) alpha2-adrenergic receptors may be coupled to the release of contractile endothelium-derived factors associated with production of nitric oxide; and (ii) nitric oxide may be released by the smooth muscle in response to purinergic stimulation. The presence of nitric oxide synthase throughout the wall of the graft may result in production of nitric oxide in response to adenosine diphosphate released by platelets and to circulating catecholamines. © 1997 The International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery.
Reproducing producers: Kundera, Stravinsky and the orchestration of translation

The traditional view that draws a sharp distinction between “producers” (authors) and “reproducers” (translators), though problematized in postmodern scholarship, is still prevalent in the discourse about translation by professionals and laypeople alike. In this article I examine this binary primarily through a critique of novelist Milan Kundera's and composer Igor Stravinsky's interwoven views related to musical performance and translation. While promoting innovation for their original productions, they hold fast to traditional, essentialist notions when discussing the role of those who reproduce their work. After establishing how their practices undermine their own views, I propose that we reflect on translation as a form of orchestration – that is, a complete reworking of a text for a different set of instruments, a different language. By thinking along these lines, we can develop a more realistic notion of translation and create a new language with which to discuss it.
Olefin Cyclopropanation via Carbene Transfer Catalyzed by Engineered Cytochrome P450 Enzymes

Transition metal–catalyzed transfers of carbenes, nitrenes, and oxenes are powerful methods for functionalizing C=C and C–H bonds. Nature has evolved a diverse toolbox for oxene transfers, as exemplified by the myriad monooxygenation reactions catalyzed by cytochrome P450 enzymes. The isoelectronic carbene transfer to olefins, a widely used C–C bond–forming reaction in organic synthesis, has no biological counterpart. Here we report engineered variants of cytochrome P450BM3 that catalyze highly diastereo- and enantioselective cyclopropanation of styrenes from diazoester reagents via putative carbene transfer. This work highlights the capacity to adapt existing enzymes for the catalysis of synthetically important reactions not previously observed in nature.
Promoting Sustainability through Transportation Infrastructure? Innovation and Inertia in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area

City engineers and planners have a critical role to play in the advancement of sustainable transportation systems at the local level. Practices that promote water quality and/or public health through transportation infrastructure are two central components of this role. Yet, little is known about the decision processes local governments use to adopt these sorts of new practices. This study explores innovations related to sustainable transportation systems using the Kansas City, Missouri, metropolitan area. Interviews with engineers and planners reveal that the automobile still dominates planning and decision making. However, when water quality or public health goals come to the fore, important decision factors include the relative advantage and observability of the strategies themselves, leadership of elected officials and public works directors, perceptions of funding levels, educational opportunities provided by professional organizations, and federal mandates.