cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Associations of DXA-measured abdominal adiposity with cardio-metabolic risk and related markers in early adolescence in Project Viva.

BACKGROUND Increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) precedes development of insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in adults. The associations of abdominal adiposity derived from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), including VAT, subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (SAAT) and total abdominal adipose tissue (TAAT) with cardio-metabolic risk in adolescents are understudied. OBJECTIVES We examined the cross-sectional associations of DXA-measured abdominal adiposity with cardio-metabolic risk and related markers in early adolescence (mean [SD] age 13.0 [0.7] years). METHODS We collected data from 740 adolescents (374 girls and 366 boys) in Project Viva, a U.S. pre-birth cohort. We used DXA estimates of VAT, SAAT and TAAT area. We conducted overall and sex-stratified linear regression models, adjusting for age, sex (in overall models), race/ethnicity, puberty score and body mass index (BMI) z-score. RESULTS Mean BMI z-score was 0.59 (1.28). After adjustment, greater VAT (per 1 SD score) was associated with higher metabolic risk z-score (β 0.14 units; 95% CI 0.08, 0.20), higher log high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (β 0.51 mg/L; 0.36, 0.66) and log leptin (β 0.36 ng/mL; 0.27, 0.44), and lower log adiponectin (β -0.08 ug/mL; -0.13, -0.02). SAAT and TAAT showed similar associations as VAT with comparable or greater effect sizes. CONCLUSION In early adolescence, DXA-measured VAT, SAAT and TAAT are associated with cardio-metabolic risk and related markers, independent of current BMI. Among two adolescents with the same BMI, there is an associated higher cardio-metabolic risk in the adolescent with greater DXA-measured abdominal adiposity.
Trends and Outcomes in Minimally Invasive Surgery for Locally Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer With N2 Disease

Few studies examine outcomes by surgical approach in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with N2 disease. We examined time trends in surgical approach and outcomes among patients undergoing minimally invasive (MIS, robotic and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery [VATS]) vs open lobectomy in this patient population. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients from the National Cancer Database diagnosed with clinical Stage IIIA-N2 NSCLC from 2010 to 2016. We examined the yearly proportion of MIS vs open resections. Multivariable regression was used to assess the association of surgical approach with length of stay, unplanned readmissions, 30-day and 90-day mortality. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to assess the association of surgical approach with 5-year overall mortality. We identified 5741 patients who underwent lobectomy for Stage IIIA-N2 NSCLC (459 robotic, 1403 VATS, 3879 open). From 2010 to 2016, the proportion of minimally invasive procedures increased from 20% to 45%. MIS patients, on average, stayed 1 day less in the hospital (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.7, 1.5) and had lower odds of 90-day (odds ratio [OR] 0.74; 95% CI 0.54, 0.99) and 5-year mortality (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.75, 0.91), compared to open resections. There was no difference in odds of readmission by surgical approach (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.71, 1.33). Among MIS procedures, robotic resections had lower odds of 90-day mortality (OR 0.42; 95% CI 0.18, 0.97) than VATS. Among patients undergoing lobectomy for locally advanced N2 NSCLC robotic and VATS techniques appear safe and effective compared to open surgery and may offer short- and long-term advantages.
Integrative phenotypic and genomic analyses reveal strain-dependent responses to acute ozone exposure and their associations with airway macrophage transcriptional activity

Acute ozone (O3) exposure is associated with multiple adverse cardiorespiratory outcomes, the severity of which varies across human populations and rodent models from diverse genetic backgrounds. However, molecular determinants of response, including biomarkers that distinguish which individuals will develop more severe injury and inflammation (i.e., high responders), are poorly characterized. Here, we exposed adult, female and male mice from 6 strains, including 5 Collaborative Cross (CC) strains, to filtered air (FA) or 2 ppm O3 for 3 hours, and measured several inflammatory and injury parameters 21 hours later. Additionally, we collected airway macrophages and performed RNA-seq analysis to investigate influences of strain, treatment, and strain-by-treatment interactions on gene expression as well as transcriptional correlates of lung phenotypes. Animals exposed to O3 developed airway neutrophilia and lung injury, with varying degrees of severity. We identified many genes that were altered by O3 exposure across all strains, and examination of genes whose expression was influenced by strain-by-treatment interactions revealed prominent differences in response between the CC017/Unc and CC003/Unc strains, which were low- and high-responders, respectively (as measured by cellular inflammation and injury). Further investigation of this contrast indicated that baseline gene expression differences likely contribute to their divergent post-O3 exposure transcriptional responses. We also observed alterations in chromatin accessibility that differed by strain and with strain-by-treatment interactions, lending further plausibility that baseline differences can modulate post-exposure responses. Together, these results suggest that aspects of the respiratory response to O3 exposure may be mediated through altered airway macrophage transcriptional signatures, and further confirms the importance of gene-by-environment interactions in mediating differential responsiveness to environmental agents.
The Role Of Grain Noise In Eddy Current Inspection Of Titanium Alloys

This paper discusses the role electrical anisotropy plays in the structural integrity assessment of polycrystalline titanium alloys from the standpoint of fatigue crack detection and the related issue of microstructural noise. In eddy current inspection of noncubic crystallographic classes of polycrystalline metals the electric anisotropy of individual grains produces an inherent microstructural variation or noise that is very similar to the well-known acoustic noise produced by the elastic anisotropy of both cubic and noncubic materials in ultrasonic characterization. The presented results demonstrate that although the electrical grain noise is detrimental in eddy current nondestructive testing for small flaws, it can be also exploited for characterization of the microstructure in noncubic polycrystalline materials such as titanium alloys in the same way acoustic grain noise is used for ultrasonic characterization of the microstructure in different materials.
The truck backer-upper: an example of self-learning in neural networks

Neural networks can be used to solve highly nonlinear control problems. A two-layer neural network containing 26 adaptive neural elements has learned to back up a computer-simulated trailer truck to a loading dock, even when initially jackknifed. It is not yet known how to design a controller to perform this steering task. Nevertheless, the neural net was able to learn of its own accord to do this, regardless of initial conditions. Experience gained with the truck backer-upper should be applicable to a wide variety of nonlinear control problems. >
Modularity and connectivity of nest structure scale with colony size

ABSTRACT Large body sizes have evolved structures to facilitate resource transport. Like unitary organisms, social insect colonies must transport information and resources, and colonies with more individuals may experience transport challenges similar to large-bodied organisms. In ant colonies, transport occurs in the nest, which may consist of structures that facilitate movement. We examine three attributes of nest structures that could mitigate transport challenges related to colony size: (1) subdivision - nests of species with large colonies are more subdivided to reduce viscosity of large crowds; (2) branching - nest tunnels increase branching in species with large colonies to reduce travel distances; and (3) short-cuts – nests of species with large colonies have cross-linking tunnels to connect distant parts of the nest and create alternative routes. We test these hypotheses by comparing nest structures of species with different colony sizes in phylogenetically controlled meta-analyses. Our findings support the subdivision and branching hypotheses. The nests of species with large colonies contain more, but not larger, chambers and reduce travel distances by increasing branching frequency. The similarity in how ant nests and the bodies of unitary organisms respond to increasing size suggests structural solutions that are common across levels of biological organization.
Evaluating V2V Security on an SDR Testbed

We showcase the capabilities of V2Verifier, a new open-source software-defined radio (SDR) testbed for vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications security, to expose the strengths and vulnerabilities of current V2V security systems based on the IEEE 1609.2 standard. V2Verifier supports both major V2V technologies and facilitates a broad range of experimentation with upper- and lower-layer attacks using a combination of SDRs and commercial V2V on-board units (OBUs). We demonstrate two separate attacks (jamming and replay) against Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) and Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technologies, experimentally quantifying the threat posed by these types of attacks. We also use V2Verifier’s open-source implementation to show how the 1609.2 standard can effectively mitigate certain types of attacks (e.g., message replay), facilitating further research into the security of V2V.
Modern Perioperative Practices May Mitigate Effects of Continued Smoking Among Lung Cancer Patients

Abstract Background Although smokers are at an increased risk for postoperative pulmonary complications after thoracic surgery, the relationship between cessation timing and postoperative pulmonary complications has not been explored in an era of enhanced recovery protocols and active tobacco cessation programs. Because a strong preference exists among thoracic surgeons to delay surgery to continued smokers, we sought to evaluate this relationship in a modern era. Methods Patients undergoing lung resection for a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer from 2012 to 2017 were identified. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate preoperative tobacco cessation timing to determine the impact on postoperative pulmonary complications. Results In all, 1038 ever smokers were identified. Patients were current smokers in 30 (3%) instances, and among former smokers, the preoperative cessation interval was 0 to 14 days in 10% (104), more than 14 days to 1 month in 6% (62), more than 1 month to 1 year in 18% (189), more than 1 to 5 years in 10% (107), and more than 5 years in 53% (546). Pulmonary complications occurred in 269 patients (26%). Multivariable analysis revealed that no group of recent or long-term quitters had superior outcomes in terms of pulmonary complications when evaluating various periods of abstinence in comparison with continued smokers and active quitters. Conclusions In an era of enhanced recovery protocols, minimally invasive surgery, and active tobacco cessation programs that may help patients to cut back, our data do not support the practice of delaying or denying surgery to patients who have difficulty quitting completely. Perioperative cessation counseling should be aimed at long-term benefits, including reduction of disease recurrence and secondary malignancies.
Image analysis in structural geology using NIH image

Abstract Image is a versatile, public-domain Macintosh image analysis program developed at the US National Institutes of Health for quantitative characterization of biological materials. Available at no cost over the Internet, the program has tremendous potential for use in the geosciences. Image can import and analyze color and gray-scale PICT, TIFF, PICS and MacPaint-type files from all standard graphics programs, and it includes many of the built-in filters and enhancement functions of commercial image processing applications. Its analysis functions include determination of object areas, perimeters or lengths, color/grayscale values and, for elliptical particles, axial lengths, orientations, and x-y centers. Used creatively, these functions make it possible to automate tasks including point-counting, strain analysis, areal estimation, and assessment of lattice and grain-shape preferred orientation. Results can be exported to any standard spreadsheet. The program can also create animated sequences from successive images and generate three-dimensional visualizations from serial sections. A spin-off program, ImageFractal, can perform both Richardson and boxcounting fractal analysis of objects in binary images. The potential of Image and ImageFractal for use in structural geology is illustrated in several examples.
The Coming Separation of Leisure Studies from Parks and Recreation Education.

The basic premise of this paper is that leisure studies or the scientific study of “leisure” should not be housed with college level programs in parks and recreation education. The present connecti...
Isolation of Citreoviridin from Penicillium charlesii Cultures and Molded Pecan Fragments

The extraction and systematic fractionation of Penicillium charlesii Smith cultures and contaminated pecan fragments yielded the yellow mycotoxin citreoviridin. Citreoviridin proved acutely toxic to 1-day-old chickens, with an oral 50% lethal dose of 37.5 mg/kg, and showed plant growth inhibition in wheat coleoptiles even at concentrations as low as 10−4 M. It was toxic to corn seedlings but did not affect young tobacco seedlings. Images
A survey of the state of the art and utilization of embedded, tree-based coding

We review first the development of tree-based, embedded image coding. We then explore their use with different image transformations, the reasons for their effectiveness and low complexity, their flexibility and incorporation into state-of-the-art compression systems.
Comparison of nurse workload approaches.

beswick s., hill p.d. & anderson m.a. (2010) Journal of Nursing Management18, 592–598 Comparison of nurse workload approaches Background For hospitals in the United States, the number of patients who lie in beds at midnight is considered to be the standard indicator of nursing workload; relatively little attention is given to the total number of patients cared for in a 24-hour day. Staffing decisions are related to cost of care. Such decisions are made on a per-shift basis, calculating hours per patient day (HPPD) based upon midnight census provides little decision-making support about variable staffing needs over a 24-hour period. The discrepancy between nurse managers’ staffing based on real-time patient needs and financial analysts looking only at units of service captured at midnight clearly speaks to the need for a new metric of measurement. Objective To describe the variations in nursing workload across two medical units using a comparison of intra-day census recommendations for staffing and those projected based on the midnight census alone. Methods Data were retrieved from a primary data set that included: (1) the number of patients lying in beds at four different times during a 24-hour period: 06.00, 14.00, 22.00 hours and at midnight; (2) projected nursing hours needed based on the numbers of patients lying in beds at different times during the 24-hour period; and (3) the number of projected nursing hours needed for the numbers of patients lying in bed and those who were admitted and discharged in an 8-hour period of time. Results Statistically significant increases in 06.00 hour patient counts were found with statistically lower patient counts at both 14.00 and 22.00 hours compared with the midnight census alone. Nursing hour projections per day did not show any significance when projected based on intra day vs. midnight census alone. Statistically significant increases in nursing hour projections were seen on all three shifts when admissions and discharges and the nursing workload associated with those procedures were calculated. Conclusions Findings suggest that the midnight census alone may well not be the most precise measure to predict nursing workload or to cost out nursing care. To accurately capture the realities of a 24-hour nursing workload, the nursing work associated with patient admissions and discharges has to be a part of the equation. Implications for nursing management The tradition of using the midnight census to budget 24 hours of nursing services in the hospital setting does not capture the totality of nursing workload. A model that costs out direct nursing care in the hospital and ultimately bills separately for that care is needed to reflect the realities of hospital nursing workload.
Automated calibration and diagnostics for synthetic instruments

This paper describes the automated software based calibration and diagnostics tools used to maintain a "real world", high speed/high performance synthetic instrument based RF test system targeted for a moderate to high quantity manufacturing environment.
Ontogeny of Adrenergic Arousal and Cholinergic Inhibitory Mechanisms in the Rat

With spontaneous activity as a measure of arousal, dose response curves were established for scopolamine and amphetamine administered to 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, and 100-day-old rats. Amphetamine always increased activity, but scopolamine had no efect on younger rats, which suggests that adrenergic excitatory areas in the brainstem mature more rapidly than cholinergic inhibitory areas in the forebrain.
Measurements of manganese with respect to calcium in histological enamel cross sections: toward a new manganese biomarker.

Airborne Mn may become an important route of exposure if the use of Mn-containing gasoline additives becomes more widespread. We report on the measurement of manganese and calcium in histological cross sections of shed deciduous tooth enamel of three human subjects. The goal of this research was to measure Mn in tooth enamel for use as a biomarker in assessing manganese exposure in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. The histological locations can be time-specific (analogous to examining growth rings in trees). This technique, which may identify critical windows of exposure, can be important for evaluating potential vulnerability of the fetus and neonate to inhaled or ingested Mn.
A comparison of SIMS and PDMS: Analyses of mixed metal oxides

Abstract Cf-252 PDMS and dynamic SIMS analyses of the class of mixed metal oxides known as ferrites (CuFe2O4, CoFe2O4, and NiFe2O4 were performed. This study provides a direct comparison of the two surface science techniques. The results yielded information in the following three areas: 1. (1) the ability to detect surface contamination, 2. (2) the differences in spectral response, and 3. (3) electronic and geometric structural information via the charge state and resulting cluster ions that were formed. Normal dynamic SIMS provides more information on the clusters in the higher mass region due to the nature of its ‘harder’ ionization process. PDMS is more sensitive to the outer surface layers and the elements and processes ( i.e. cationization) that have or arise due to lower ionization potentials. The two techniques provide complementary information, and both are highly suggested for a more complete surface analysis.
Growth of and Critical Current Density of TL2BA2CACU2O8 Superconducting Single Crystals

Large single crystals of Tl 2 Ba 2 CaCu 2 O 8 superconductors were grown by a two step self-flux process. Crystals are plate-like. The in-plane crystal sizes are as large as 5mmX5mm and the thickness range from 0.01mm to 0.8mm. The critical currents were extracted from I-V curves measured at different temperatures. j c was about 2.4×10 4 A/cm 2 at liquid nitrogen temperature.
Change in Radiative Optical Properties of Tantalum Pentoxide Thin-Films Due to Material Compositional Changes at High Temperature

Thin films (0.85μm, 3μm) of Ta2 O5 deposited on Si and SiO2 were heated to 900°C. Their reflectance in the infrared was measured using an FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer) equipped with a multiple angle reflectometer before and after exposure to high temperature. An interfacial layer (TaSix Oy ) formed by the diffusion of Si from the substrate into the deposited film was observed using Auger depth profiling, and the effect of this interfacial layer on the reflectance was measured. Using a least squares optimization technique coupled with an optical admittance algorithm, the multiple angle reflectance data was used to calculate the optical constants of the as deposited Ta2 O5 film, crystalline Ta2 O5 , and the interfacial layer in the 1.6μm to 10μm range. The interfacial layer formed due to exposure to high temperature was found to be more absorptive than the crystalline Ta2 O5 .Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Internet-based, randomized, controlled trial of omega-3 fatty acids for hyperactivity in autism.

Objective Preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce hyperactivity in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We sought to examine the feasibility of a novel, Internet-based clinical trial design to evaluate the efficacy of this supplement. Method E-mail invitations were sent to parents of children aged 5 to 8 years enrolled in the Interactive Autism Network. All study procedures, including screening, informed consent, and collection of outcome measures took place over the Internet. The primary outcome measures were parent- and teacher-rated changes in hyperactivity on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC-H). Results During the 6-week recruitment period, 57 children from 28 states satisfied all eligibility criteria and were randomly assigned to 1.3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids or an identical placebo daily for 6 weeks. Outcome assessments were obtained from all 57 participants and 57 teachers, and the study was completed in 3 months. Children in the omega-3 fatty acid group had a greater reduction in hyperactivity ( − 5.3 points) compared to the placebo group ( − 2.6 points), but the difference was not statistically significant (1.9-point greater improvement in the omega-3 group, 95% CI = − 2.2 to 5.2). Adverse events were rare and not associated with omega-3 fatty acids. Participant feedback was positive. Conclusion Internet-based, randomized controlled trials of therapies in children with ASD are feasible and may lead to marked reductions in the time and cost of completing trials. A larger sample size is required to definitively determine the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids. Clinical trial registration information—Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Hyperactivity Treatment in Autism Spectrum Disorder; http://clinicaltrials.gov; NCT 01694667.
Defects of the Heart, Eye, and Megakaryocytes in Peroxisome Proliferator Activator Receptor-binding Protein (PBP) Null Embryos Implicate GATA Family of Transcription Factors *

Peroxisome proliferator activator receptor (PPAR)-binding protein (PBP) is an important coactivator for PPARgamma and other nuclear receptors. It has been identified as an integral component of a multiprotein thyroid hormone receptor-associated protein/vitamin D(3) receptor-interacting protein/activator-recruited cofactor complexes required for transcriptional activity. Here, we show that PBP is critical for the development of placenta and for the normal embryonic development of the heart, eye, vascular, and hematopoietic systems. The primary functional cause of embryonic lethality at embryonic day11.5 observed with PBP null mutation was cardiac failure because of noncompaction of the ventricular myocardium and resultant ventricular dilatation. There was a paucity of retinal pigment, defective lens formation, excessive systemic angiogenesis, a deficiency in the number of megakaryocytes, and an arrest in erythrocytic differentiation. Some of these defects involve PPARgamma and retinoid-sensitive sites, whereas others have not been recognized in the PPAR-signaling pathway. Phenotypic changes in four organ systems observed in PBP null mice overlapped with those in mice deficient in members of GATA, a family of transcription factors known to regulate differentiation of megakaryocytes, erythrocytes, and adipocytes. We demonstrate that PBP interacts with all five GATA factors analyzed, GATA-1, GATA-2, GATA-3, GATA-4, and GATA-6, and show that the binding of GATA-1, GATA-4, and GATA-6 to PBP is not dependent on the nuclear receptor recognition sequence motif LXXLL (where L is leucine and X is any amino acid) in PBP. Coexpression of PBP with GATA-3 markedly enhanced transcriptional activity of GATA-3 in nonhematopoietic cells. These observations identify the GATA family of transcription factors as a new interacting partner of PBP and demonstrate that PBP is essential for normal development of vital organ systems.
Uncovering the Dynamics of RNA Polymerase in Live E. coli Cells

Transcription is a highly regulated process in the cell. The kinetics and mechanism of transcription have been extensively studied in vitro. However, a living cell is a complex entity; the heterogenous, crowded cellular environment is drastically different from the homogeneous, well-mixed situation in vitro, likely imposing different rules on transcription. In this work we used a functional, fluorescent protein-tagged RNAP in live E. coli cells to track the dynamics of individual RNAP molecules in time and space. Using quantitative single particle tracking analysis and theoretical modeling, we determined different diffusive states of RNAP and the corresponding transition probabilities between states. By further correlating with transcription activities, we provide results illustrating the kinetics of various aspects of transcription such as the typical promoter search time and transcription elongation time in live cells.
Gallstone composition: are children different?

Abstract During a 5-year period (1997-2002) 20 consecutive children (11 boys; median age, 8 years; range, 0.3-13.9 years) underwent cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis at a regional pediatric surgical center. Multiple stones were present in 16 patients (80%). All stones were collected prospectively. Composition studies were performed after grinding an aliquot of stone and examining a layer of crushed powder by Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy. The relative proportions of each major stone component were assessed: cholesterol, protein and calcium salts of bilirubin, fatty acids, carbonate, and hydroxyapatite. Of the 20 children, 10 had black pigment stones, 2 had cholesterol stones, 1 had brown pigment stones, and 7 had calcium carbonate stones; the latter are exceptionally rare in adults. The composition of pediatric gallstones in this series differs from that found in adults. (J Pediatr 2003;142:435-40)
Perioperative Multimodal Anesthesia Using Regional Techniques in the Aging Surgical Patient

Background. Elderly patients have unique age-related comorbidities that may lead to an increase in postoperative complications involving neurological, pulmonary, cardiac, and endocrine systems. There has been an increase in the number of elderly patients undergoing surgery as this portion of the population is increasing in numbers. Despite advances in perioperative anesthesia and analgesia along with improved delivery systems, monotherapy with opioids continues to be the mainstay for treatment of postop pain. Reliance on only opioids can oftentimes lead to inadequate pain control or increase in the incidence of adverse events. Multimodal analgesia incorporating regional anesthesia is a promising alternative that may reduce needs for high doses and dependence on opioids along with any potential associated adverse effects. Methods. The following databases were searched for relevant published trials: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and PubMed. Textbooks and meeting supplements were also utilized. The authors assessed trial quality and extracted data. Conclusions. Multimodal drug therapy and perioperative regional techniques can be very effective to perioperative pain management in the elderly. Regional anesthesia as part of multimodal perioperative treatment can often reduce postoperative neurological, pulmonary, cardiac, and endocrine complications. Regional anesthesia/analgesia has not been proven to improve long-term morbidity but does benefit immediate postoperative pain control. In addition, multimodal drug therapy utilizes a variety of nonopioid analgesic medications in order to minimize dosages and adverse effects from opioids while maximizing analgesic effect and benefit.
Needed: A more rich, textured and nuanced view of the role of geography in international politics

The following comments divide into three sections. The first section questions Professor Spiegel's use of the traditional space vs. cyberspace dichotomy and the high‐technology/nationalistic/transitional states trichotomy as conceptual devices well‐suited ‘to illustrate the complexity of the new era’ (115). Contra Spiegel, I argue that the dynamic and multi‐faceted complexity characteristic of contemporary world affairs can not be readily captured by such crude analytical tools. The second section refers to what is omitted or missing in the Spiegel's article. Here, I question whether best‐known authors (such as Thomas Friedman, Robert Kaplan and Samuel Huntington) are also those best‐suited to assess the current state of IR geographical knowledge. I answer in the negative and call attention to the work of some lesser‐known scholars whose works reflect the beginning of serious reflection on the changing role of geography in international politics. Finally, I conclude by reiterating the need for sustained d...
Programs for Mathematically Gifted Students: A Review of Empirical Research:

This paper summarizes and critiques the empirical research of the 1970s and 1980s on programs for mathematically gifted students. Much research has shown that accelerating the mathematics curriculum provides a very good program for precocious students. Organizational plans that place mathematically gifted students together for mathematics instruction also offer opportunities for these students to perform well. Although technology-based instruction also appears to provide an efficacious way of providing instruction for mathematically gifted elementary students, this method should be examined further with older students and in long-term studies. Research with enriched curricula and non-computer-based instruction provided inconclusive evidence of efficacy for mathematically gifted students.
Geographic variations in outcome of very low birth weight infants in Italy.

Aim: A number of social and health aspects in Italy show remarkable geographic dishomogeneity. We investigated if this phenomenon involves the outcome of very low birth-weight infants (VLBWI). Methods: This is a multi-centre nation-based survey among all Italian NICUs. The number of VLBWI admitted to each NICU in 2001 by birth-weight classes of 250 g, their inborn/outborn status and survival at discharge were registered through ad hoc questionnaires. The data were analysed for the whole country and for three geographic areas (North, Centre and South). Results: A total of 4679 VLBWI in 125 units were surveyed (0.88% of live births in Italy in 2001). The median number of infants admitted was 34 per NICU (interquartile range 16,52), without significant differences among the three geographic areas. The inborn rate was 80.7% (86.5% in the North, 83.7% in the Centre and 74.6% in the South). The mortality rate was 19.6% (15.6% in the North, 19.3% in the Centre and 23.4% in the South). Adjusted relative risk of death between Southern and Northern regions was 1.48 (95% CI 1.30–1.68), and that between outborn and inborn infants was 1.20 (95% CI 1.04–1.37). Conclusions: The differences in mortality among geographic areas suggest a state of socio-sanitary deprivation in the Southern regions, as well as different models of organisation and quality of perinatal care.
The sustainability of B2B e-marketplaces: Ownership structure, market competition, and prior buyer-seller connections

B2B e-marketplaces alter the structure of buyer-seller trading networks. To study the network-level structural changes caused by the emergence of e-marketplaces, we develop a multiple-player noncooperative game, where rational firms select optimal interfirm connections and the network is endogenously formed and evolved. We examine the conditions under which both neutral and biased B2B e-markets will sustain, when previous buyer-seller connections exist. We test our model in both the oligopoly market and the oligopsony market. Our analysis explains how ownership structures and market competition interact with each other to affect e-market sustainability. We also identify other critical factors for sustainable e-markets and their social welfare implications.
Urinary Biomarkers in Lupus Nephritis

Renal involvement in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in the form of severe lupus nephritis is associated with a significant burden of morbidity and mortality. Conventional laboratory biomarkers in current use have not been very successful in anticipating disease flares, predicting renal histology, or decreasing unwanted outcomes. Since early treatment is associated with improved clinical results, it is thus essential to identify new biomarkers with substantial predictive power to reduce the serious sequelae of this difficult to control lupus manifestation. Indeed, considerable efforts and progress have been made over the last few years in the search for novel biomarkers. Since urinary biomarkers are more easily obtainable with much less risk to the patient than repeat renal biopsies, and these may more accurately discern between renal disease and other organ manifestations than their serum counterparts, there has been tremendous interest in studying new candidate urine biomarkers. Below, we review several promising urinary biomarkers under investigation, including total proteinuria and microalbuminuria, urinary proteomic signatures, and the individual inflammatory mediators interleukin-6, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, CXCL16, IP-10, and tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis.
Method of Transition Probabilities in Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Statistics

The concepts microscopic reversibility, detailed balancing, equal probabilities, equilibrium, $H$ theorem are often used in (coarse grained) quantum statistics. It is pointed out that each has a (fine grained) quantum-mechanical counterpart. These concepts are formulated, and their interrelations discussed, at an abstract mathematical level. The results are then interpreted by taking first the fine grained and then the coarse grained point of view. A type of transition matrix arises which does not seem to have been investigated so far, and some of its properties are discussed.
Attenuation of the flux of neutrachamps in the Earth's atmosphere-a parametric study

The authors estimate the attenuation of the flux of neutrachamps as they propagate through the Earth's atmosphere and discuss the possibility that they will reach the surface of the Earth.
Xanthophyll Cycle Enzymes Are Members of the Lipocalin Family, the First Identified from Plants *

Violaxanthin de-epoxidase and zeaxanthin epoxidase catalyze the addition and removal of epoxide groups in carotenoids of the xanthophyll cycle in plants. The xanthophyll cycle is implicated in protecting the photosynthetic apparatus from excessive light. Two new sequences for violaxanthin de-epoxidase from tobacco andArabidopsis are described. Although the mature proteins are well conserved, the transit peptides of these proteins are divergent, in contrast to transit peptides from other proteins targeted to the thylakoid lumen. Sequence analyses of both violaxanthin de-epoxidase and zeaxanthin epoxidase establish the xanthophyll cycle enzymes as members of the lipocalin family of proteins. The lipocalin family is a diverse group of proteins that bind small hydrophobic (lipophilic) molecules and share a conserved tertiary structure of eight β-strands forming a barrel configuration. This is the first reported identification of lipocalin proteins in plants.
Vanilloids induce oral cancer apoptosis independent of TRPV1.

Summary Objective To investigate the mechanisms of vanilloid cytotoxicity and anti-tumor effects in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Materials and methods Immunohistochemistry and qPCR analyses demonstrated expression of the TRP vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor in OSCC. Using cell proliferation assays, calcium imaging, and three mouse xenograft models, prototypical vanilloid agonist (capsaicin) and antagonist (capsazepine) were evaluated for cytotoxic and anti-tumor effects in OSCC. Results OSCC cell lines treated with capsaicin displayed significantly reduced cell viability. Pre-treatment with capsazepine failed to reverse these effects. Moreover, capsazepine alone was significantly cytotoxic to tumor cells, suggesting the mechanism-of-action is independent of TRPV1 activation. This was further confirmed by calcium imaging indicating that TRPV1 channels are not functional in the cell lines tested. We then examined whether the observed vanilloid cytotoxicity was due to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent apoptosis. Induction of ROS was confirmed by flow cytometry and reversed by co-treatment with the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC). NAC also significantly reversed vanilloid cytotoxicity in cell proliferation assays. Dose-dependent induction of apoptosis with capsazepine treatment was demonstrated by FACS analyses and c-PARP expression in treated cells. Our in vivo xenograft studies showed that intra-tumoral injections of capsazepine exhibited high effectiveness in suppressing tumor growth with no identifiable toxicities. Conclusions These findings confirm TRPV1 channel expression in OSCC. However anti-tumor effects of vanilloids are independent of TRPV1 activation and are most likely due to ROS induction and subsequent apoptosis. Importantly, these studies demonstrate capsazepine is a potential therapeutic candidate for OSCC.
Survival and Recovery of Thermally Stressed Yeast in Orange Juice

Injury and survival of thermally stressed yeast in orange juice were assessed by plating on plate count agar, acidified potato dextrose agar, and orange serum agar. Thermally stressed yeast were found to have reduced plate counts on both orange serum agar and acidified potato dextrose agar in comparison to plate count agar. Severely injured populations were not able to repair injury in orange juice held at 25°C but survived storage at 25, 6, and -18°C.
Mechanical Ventilation Management by Pulmonologists and Surgeons in Patients With Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

ABSTRACT Background Treatment of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is complex, and management by a specialist with expertise in pulmonary mechanics may improve outcomes. We compared mechanical ventilation management of patients with ARDS by pulmonologists and surgeons. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 97 patients with an ICD-9 diagnosis of ARDS at 2 community hospitals. We collected information on demographics and all necessary parameters to calculate the acute physiology, age, and chronic health evaluation (APACHE II) score. Main outcomes included mortality and total days spent in the intensive care unit (ICU) and on mechanical ventilation. All outcomes were adjusted for APACHE II score using multiple logistic regression. Results Mechanical ventilation was managed by a pulmonologist in 62 patients and by a surgeon in 35 patients. Mortality rate was 35.5% (n = 22) in the patients treated by pulmonologists and 45.7% (n = 16) in patients treated by surgeons ( P = 0.32). This result was unaffected by adjustment for APACHE II score. However, those surviving spent fewer days in the ICU (median of 10 vs 16 days; P = 0.07) and fewer days on mechanical ventilation (median of 7 vs 15 days; P = 0.003) when treated by pulmonologists. These results were unaffected by adjustment for APACHE II score. Conclusions We found that patients who survived with ARDS spent fewer days on mechanical ventilation, and there was a trend for spending fewer days in the ICU when mechanical ventilation is managed by a pulmonologist compared with a surgeon. There was a lower mortality rate in the pulmonologist group, although this did not reach statistical significance. A small sample size and the retrospective design limit our findings. Further study using a multicenter design to determine if a disease specific specialist improves efficiency of care is needed because if our findings are confirmed, it would translate into significant cost savings.
Temperament and Parenting during the First Year of Life Predict Future Child Conduct Problems

Predictive associations between parenting and temperament during the first year of life and child conduct problems were assessed longitudinally in 1,863 offspring of a representative sample of women. Maternal ratings of infant fussiness, activity level, predictability, and positive affect each independently predicted maternal ratings of conduct problems during ages 4-13 years. Furthermore, a significant interaction indicated that infants who were both low in fussiness and high in predictability were at very low risk for future conduct problems. Fussiness was a stronger predictor of conduct problems in boys whereas fearfulness was a stronger predictor in girls. Conduct problems also were robustly predicted by low levels of early mother-report cognitive stimulation when infant temperament was controlled. Interviewer-rated maternal responsiveness was a robust predictor of conduct problems, but only among infants low in fearfulness. Spanking during infancy predicted slightly more severe conduct problems, but the prediction was moderated by infant fussiness and positive affect. Thus, individual differences in risk for mother-rated conduct problems across childhood are already partly evident in maternal ratings of temperament during the first year of life and are predicted by early parenting and parenting-by-temperament interactions.
Viruses and cancer: lessons from the human polyomavirus, JCV

The possible role of eucaryotic viruses in the development of cancer has been the subject of intense investigation during the past 50 years. Thus far, a strong link between some RNA and DNA viruses and various cancers in humans has been established and the transforming activity of several of the viruses in cell culture and their oncogenecity in experimental animals has been well documented. Perhaps, one of the most common themes among the oncogenic viruses rests in the ability of one or more of the viral proteins to deregulate pathways involved in the control of cell proliferation. For example, inactivation of tumor suppressors through their association with viral transforming proteins, and/or impairment of signal transduction pathways upon viral infection and expression of viral proteins are among the key biological events that can either trigger and/or contribute to the process of cancer. In recent years, more attention has been paid to human polyomaviruses, particularly JC virus (JCV), which infects greater than 80% of the human population, due to the ability of this virus to induce a fatal demyelinating disease in the brain, its presence in various tumors of central nervous system (CNS) and non-CNS origin, and the oncogenic potential of this virus in several laboratory animal models. Here, we will focus our attention on JCV and describe several pathways employed by the virus to contribute to and/or accelerate cancer development.
NIH research: think globally.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) has for more than 60 years supported research to improve the health and prolong the lives of people in the United States and around the world. Mean life expectancy worldwide has doubled to more than 70 years, due in large part to medical and public health interventions developed with NIH funding. Now, in the face of serious fiscal constraints, the idea has reemerged from some congressional leaders and disease constituency groups to more closely align NIH funding for disease research with disease burden in the United States. Although the nation must maintain robust research support for diseases that cause illness and death among large numbers of Americans, it would be unwise to deemphasize diseases that exact their largest toll elsewhere in the world. The United States has a vital interest in the health of people around the globe, rooted in an enduring tradition of humanitarian concern as well as in enlightened self-interest. Engagement in global health protects the nation's citizens, enhances the economy, and advances U.S. interests abroad.
Specific antigen-binding molecules in normal serum. A quest for circulating receptors

Molecules (I) in the IgM fraction of normal serum compete with specific antibody for a single determinant on a macromolecule. Following immunization, the levels of I fall as antibody titer rises, but they later increase again during the decline of antibody. These findings are discussed in light of recent studies regarding soluble antigen-specific factors.
Study of Crystallization Processes in Ethylene−Styrene Copolymers by Conventional DSC and Temperature-Modulated Calorimetry: Linear Polyethylene and Low Styrene Content Copolymers

Using a combination of differential scanning calorimetry and quasi-isothermal temperature-modulated calorimetry, we investigated the temporal evolutions of the melting temperature, degree of crysta...
Perspectives: has intraoperative near infrared indocyanine green video-angiography replaced formal angiography in aneurysm surgery?

ll technologic advancements in medicine aim to replace existing instruments with better, cheaper, or more userA friendly tools. More recent examples of such advancements have been widespread in endovascular neurosurgery. However, these technologic improvements, although more common in interventional procedures, have not been isolated to the endovascular realm. The use of near infrared indocyanine green video-angiography (ICGA), first described in 2003 by Raabe et al. (6), has gained widespread acceptance by many vascular neurosurgeons during aneurysm clipping. With a simple application of a modified digital recorder in the surgical microscope, near infrared video-angiography can detect intracranial vascular flow after intravenous injection of indocyanine green in an inexpensive, reliable, and safe manner. In many centers, ICGA has replaced intraoperative angiography because of the cumbersome, time-consuming, expensive, and potentially dangerous nature of intraoperative angiography. However, ICGA remains inferior to postoperative confirmatory angiography in complete evaluation of aneurysm occlusion and parent vessel patency. Over the past 10 years, many studies have been performed in an attempt to quantify when and how ICGA fails to measure up to postoperative angiography. Most of these studies have been underpowered single-center retrospective studies of a nonstandardized use of ICGA, leaving little ability to make any firm claim on specific shortcomings of the technology.