cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
When Numbers Count: Framing, Subjective Numeracy, and the Effects of Message Quantification in Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Advertisements

In this study, two experiments were designed to examine the persuasive effects of message quantification. Experiment 1 showed that subjects with a low level of numeracy responded more favorably to a direct-to-customer (DTC) ad presenting a quantified description of the benefits and risks of a drug than to an ad using broad language. Experiment 2 revealed that when a DTC ad emphasized the positive consequences of taking the medicine, a quantified message was more effective than using broad statements. In contrast, when an ad focused on the negative consequences of not taking the medicine, the effects of message quantification were minimal.
Geographies of Seed Networks for Food Plants (Potato, Ulluco) and Approaches to Agrobiodiversity Conservation in the Andean Countries

This study is focused on the geographic structure of seed networks in the conservation-targeted Andean potato and ulluco crops. Results demonstrate that farmers of eastern Cuzco are dependent on multiscale networks of seed procurement that are spatially and socially differentiated at the levels of individual farmers and households, intracommunity farm units, the rural community, and groups of multiple communities. Scale-related differences exist in the seed provisioning roles of men and women farmers. Seed flows are shown to support access to diverse food plants and to shape the makeup of seed types as social-agroecological products. Negative impacts could be incurred through current approaches for in situ agrobiodiversity conservation since their models of farm zonation do not account for the multiscale geographies of seed flow in diverse Andean potatoes and ulluco.
Activation of Stress-activated Protein Kinase/c-Jun N-terminal Kinase, but Not NF-κB, by the Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Receptor 1 through a TNF Receptor-associated Factor 2- and Germinal Center Kinase Related-dependent Pathway

A key step by which tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signals the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK, also called c-Jun N-terminal kinase or JNK) is the recruitment to the TNF receptor of TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2). However, the subsequent steps in TRAF2-induced SAPK and NF-κB activation remain unresolved. Here we report the identification of a TNF-responsive serine/threonine protein kinase termed GCK related (GCKR) that likely signals via mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1) to activate the SAPK pathway. TNF, TRAF2, and ultraviolet (UV) light, which in part uses the TNF receptor signaling pathway, all increased GCKR activity. A TRAF2 mutant, which inhibits both TRAF2-induced NF-κB and SAPK activation, blocked TNF-induced GCKR activation. Finally, interference with GCKR expression impeded TRAF2- and TNF-induced SAPK activation but not that of NF-κB. This suggests a divergence in the TNF signaling pathway that leads to SAPK and NF-κB activation, which is located downstream of TRAF2 but upstream of GCKR.
1373 THEOPHYLLINE TREATMENT DOES NOT INCREASE THE RISK OF NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS IN PRETERM INFANTS

Anecdotal case reports and animal studies (using intraperitoneal theophylline [T] at high doses) have suggested that T therapy may damage gut mucosa and increase the risk of NEC. Therefore, in order to investigate the role of T in the pathogenesis of NEC, 275 infants <1500g were prospectively studied over a three year period. 135 infants (49%) received T (maintaining a serum concentration of 8-12 mg/1) for treatment of apnea of prematurity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia or to assist in weaning from mechanical ventilation. The overall incidence of NEC was 10% (28 cases). The table below demonstrates that 12/135 (9%) of infants treated with T and 16/140 (11%) of untreated infants developed NEC.
In vitro analysis of the cellular localization of luteinizing hormone releasing factor (LRF) in the basal hypothalamus of the rat

Light and electron microscopic autoradiographic analysis of the medial basal hypothalamus of rat brains incubated for 30 and 60 minutes in tritiated luteinizing releasing factor (3H-LRF) revealed selective uptake in the form of silver grains over specialized ependyma (tanycytes) and perivascular glial cells in the palisade-contact zone of the median eminence. The functional capacity of tanycytes and glia are discussed in light of these data.
Airborne Defibrillation... The Sequel

Summary The greatest potential error occurring during attempted cardiac resuscitation is to delay administering the initial shock. 2 Defibrillation with current equipment can be performed without hesitation whether the rotary or fixed-wing aircraft is in flight or on the ground. Despite cramped quarters and sensitive electrical equipment, defibrillation can be safely performed in all types of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft currently in use for emergency medical transports.
Thermal inactivation of reduced ferredoxin (flavodoxin):NADP+ oxidoreductase from Escherichia coli

Ferredoxin (flavodoxin):NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR) is an essential enzyme that supplies electrons from NADPH to support flavodoxin-dependent enzyme radical generation and enzyme activation. FNR is a monomeric enzyme that contains a non-covalently bound FAD cofactor. We report that reduced FNR from Escherichia coli is subject to inactivation due to unfolding of the protein and dissociation of the FADH(2) cofactor at 37 degrees C. The inactivation rate is temperature-dependent in a manner that parallels the thermal unfolding of the protein and is slowed by binding of ferredoxin or flavodoxin. Understanding factors that minimize inactivation is critical for utilizing FNR as an accessory protein for S-adenosyl-L-methionine-dependent radical enzymes and manipulating FNR as an electron source for biotechnology applications.
The double-torsion testing technique for determination of fracture toughness and slow crack growth behavior of materials: A review

The double-torsion testing technique for fracture toughness and slow crack growth determination has been critically reviewed. The analytical compliance and finite element stress analyses of the double-torsion test specimen are summarized. The fracture toughness and crack growth testing procedure using this test configuration is described along with the applicable relationships. The strengths and limitations of this testing technique vis-a-vis other standardized techniques have been critically evaluated. While the double-torsion test method has some limiting features it has been demonstrated that its applicability is not limited as long as these are addressed correctly. Recommendations for conducting double-torsion experiments have been provided and potential avenues for improvement of this test method have been identified. It is concluded based on the review that standardization of this test method is required in order to make it more practicable.
Effect of Payment for Initial Compliance: Unanswered Questions about the Foot-in-the-Door Phenomenon:

Theoretical explanations of the foot-in-the door effect lead to the prediction that persons offered a monetary payment for their compliance to an initial, small request would not be more likely to comply with a subsequent demand. For their participation in a telephone survey, some subjects were promised $2 (Payment condi tion), while others were not (No Payment). (1) The rate of compliance to a subsequent request for the No Payment condition (45.8%) was not higher than that for a no-initial-contract control group (55.6%). (2) Payment condition subjects (78.3%) were more compliant with the second request. A follow-up study suggested that subjects' expec tation of reward did not mediate the higher rate of compliance in the Payment condition. Other possible explanations for that finding are considered.
Implications of heterogeneous bead behavior on cell mechanical properties measured with magnetic twisting cytometry

Abstract Magnetic twisting cytometry (MTC) measures cellular mechanical properties, such as cell stiffness and viscosity, by applying mechanical stress to specific cell surface receptors via ligand-coated ferromagnetic beads. MTC measures simultaneously the rotation of approximately 50,000 beads attached to 20,000–40,000 cells. Here we show direct evidence of heterogeneous bead behavior and examine its consequences in the interpretation of cell mechanical properties.
Interventional therapies for heart failure in the elderly

The aging of a population replete with risk factors for heart failure (HF) (coronary heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension) coupled with a declining age-adjusted mortality rate for coronary artery and hypertensive heart diseases has created, and will continue to create, a literal explosion in the prevalence of HF in the United States. Despite advances in maximal medical therapy, however, most patients who have symptomatic HF can expect functional impairment, interludes of worsening symptomatology, and a shortened lifespan. This article updates the use of interventional therapies for the treatment of elderly patients who have HF caused by coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, congenital heart disease, myocardial disease, and renal vascular disease.
Time-scale energy density functions

Scale, like frequency, is a physical characteristic of a signal. To measure the scale content of a signal, the signal must be appropriately transformed. A theory for joint time-scale energy density functions is presented, and a method for generating such functions for any signal is given. Examples for synthetic signals and real data are presented. The theory and method can be extended to arbitrary joint densities of any variables, for example, frequency and scale.
Sorghum Seed Maturity Affects the Weight and Feeding Duration of Immature Corn Earworm, Helicoverpa zea, and Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, in the Laboratory

Corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea Boddie (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), and fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith, are occasional pests in sorghum, Sorghum bicolor L. Moench (Poales: Poaceae), and can be economically damaging when conditions are favorable. Despite the frequent occurrence of mixed-species infestations, the quantitative data necessary for developing yield loss relationships for S. frugiperda are not available. Although these species share similar biological characteristics, it is unknown whether their damage potentials in developing grain sorghum panicles are the same. Using no-choice feeding assays in the laboratory, this study examined larval growth and feeding duration for H. zea and S. frugiperda in the absence of competition. Each species responded positively when exposed to sorghum seed in the soft-dough stage, supporting evidence for the interactions between host-quality and larval growth and development. The results of this study also confirmed the suitability of using laboratory-reared H. zea to develop sorghum yield loss estimates in the field, and provided insights into the biological responses of S. frugiperda feeding on developing sorghum seed.
New Mexico: Celebrating One Hundred Years of Statehood, a Recovering Economy, and a Balanced Budget

DOI 10.1515/cjpp-2013-0028 Calif. J. Politics Policy 2013; 5(3): 497–509 Kim Seckler* New Mexico: Celebrating One Hundred Years of Statehood, a Recovering Economy, and a Balanced Budget Abstract: As New Mexico enters its centennial year, the state is home to over two million people, a diverse population, a divided government and a five and a half billion dollar general fund budget. This paper will examine the budget- ing process, participants and decisions that created New Mexico’s budget in its centennial year. In addition to covering the budget, this report will address issues that affect the budget including major legislative and political issues and the political landscape of state government as it approaches FY 2013. Keywords: New Mexico; legislature; governor; FY 2012-13; budget; West. *Corresponding author: Kim Seckler, Department of Government, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA, e-mail: kseckler@nmsu.edu 1 Introduction In January 1912, President William Howard Taft penned the document proclaiming New Mexico’s statehood. At the time, President Taft remarked, “I am glad to give you life. I hope that you will be healthy.” One hundred years later, as New Mexico enters its centennial year, the state is home to over two million people, a diverse population, a divided government and a five and a half billion dollar general fund budget. With a nod to President Taft, the state is financially healthy. This paper will examine the budgeting process, participants and decisions that created New Mexi- co’s budget in its centennial year. In addition to covering the budget, this report will address issues that affect the budget including major legislative and political issues and the political landscape of state government as it approaches FY 2013. 2 New Mexico – Its Land, People and Income New Mexico, the country’s 5th largest state, is home to a small diverse population concentrated along the central Rio Grande corridor. While large in size, it is small
Homozygosity for TNSALP mutation 1348c>T (Arg433Cys) causes infantile hypophosphatasia manifesting transient disease correction and variably lethal outcome in a kindred of black ancestry.

Objective To determine the "tissue-nonspecific" isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) defect underlying transiently reversible and variably lethal infantile hypophosphatasia (HPP) in a kindred and to characterize HPP prevalence in black people. Study design In 1986, we reported temporary correction of severe HPP in an American kindred of black ancestry where "infantile" HPP was fatal in 2 of 3 affected individuals representing 2 sibships. This transient improvement in 1 patient followed efforts to increase TNSALP activity endogenously and suggested dysregulation of the gene ( TNSALP ). Here, we sequenced the coding exons and splice sites of the kindred's TNSALP alleles and reviewed our 30-year experience with HPP to assess its prevalence in black people. Results Homozygosity for TNSALP missense mutation 1348C>T (Arg433Cys) accounted for this kindred's infantile HPP. The TNSALP promoter sequence was normal. Modeling of TNSALP (433Cys) suggested compromise of the catalytic site. Ethnicity was identified for the 119 families with HPP studied in St. Louis, and race was ascertained for an additional 159 of our 235 consultand HPP families worldwide. In this experience, only this family was of black ancestry. Conclusions Infantile HPP from homozygous TNSALP (433Cys) can remit and thus harbor clues regarding the phenotypic variation and perhaps treatment of HPP.
SU‐GG‐J‐160: Monte Carlo Optimization of a Three‐Stage Compton Camera for Prompt Gamma Imaging and Spectroscopy: Materials and Geometry

Purpose: Prompt gamma photons emitted from biological tissues under proton irradiation carry dosimetric and spectroscopicinformation that can provide treatment verification and indicate biological response. We optimize the materials and geometry of a three‐stage Compton camera for prompt gamma detection and to calculate the efficiency of such a detector. Method and Materials: A three‐stage Compton camera was modeled in Geant4 as a series of parallel square detector stages. The assembly was placed 15 cm from an isotropic point source of mono‐energetic gamma‐rays. The primary energies considered were 2.33, 4.44, and 6.13 MeV, which are characteristic emission energies of Nitrogen, Carbon, and Oxygen. Certain detector arrangements were characterized over the energy range from 0–1 MeV in 0.25‐MeV increments and from 1–10 MeV in 0.5‐MeV increments. The scintillating materials evaluated in this study include germanium, BGO (Bi4Ge3O12), NaI, Xenon, and LaBr3. For each material, the thickness of each stage was optimized to produce the maximum number of relevant interactions. Results: For the primary and secondary stages, each material exhibits peak production of single Compton‐scatter events at thicknesses ranging from 2 cm for BGO to 4 cm for Xenon. Transportation efficiency, or the fraction of interacting photons that enter the next stage, decreases linearly with thickness. Peak efficiencies for the primary and secondary stages vary from 15–25% per stage, depending on energy and material. In the final stage, all interactions are used, making detection efficiency an increasing function of thickness. At 10 cm thickness, BGO detection efficiency approaches 80%, while germanium and LaBr3 exhibit 70% efficiency. Conclusion: The most important contributors to detection efficiency are thickness and material. The most efficient detector configurations are BGO‐Germanium‐BGO, with a peak efficiency of 2.25×10−3 at 2 MeV, and Germanium‐Germanium‐BGO, which is the most efficient detector below 1.5 MeV and above 4 MeV.
Teaching Video NeuroImages: A teenager with a rare movement disorder

A 17-year-old patient with no medical or psychiatric illness presented with a 4-year history of painless twitching of the toes of his right foot (video on the Neurology ® Web site at [www.neurology.org][1]). The movements subsided in deep sleep. Neurologic examination, EEG, and MRI brain/lumbosacral spine were normal. Electrophysiology showed axonal neuropathy of the right deep peroneal nerve. [1]: http://www.neurology.org/
Emphasising sound and meaning: pitch gestures enhance Mandarin lexical tone acquisition

Lexical tones – pitches differentiating between word meanings in tonal languages – are particularly difficult for atonal language speakers to learn. To test the hypotheses of embodied cognition and spoken word recognition, we examined whether – and how – gesture could facilitate English speakers' discrimination between Mandarin words differing in lexical tone. Words were learned with gestures conveying tone pitch contours (pitch gestures), gestures conveying word meanings (semantic gestures) or no gestures. The results demonstrated that pitch gestures enhanced English speakers' discrimination between the meanings of Mandarin words differing in tone, whereas semantic gestures hindered their identification of tones in learned words. These findings indicate that the visuospatial features of pitch gestures strengthen the relationship between English speakers' representations of Mandarin lexical tones and word meanings, supporting the predictions of spoken word recognition and embodied cognition.
Evaluation of a cross-flow filtration technique for extraction of polioviruses from inoculated oyster tissue homogenates☆

Abstract Pleated membrane filtration capsules, utilizing cross-flow and liquid membrane technology, were evaluated for use in poliovirus extraction from inoculated oyster tissue homogenates. The filtration technique is fast and less complex than other extraction procedures. Capsules filtered an average of 450.3 ml of a one liter homogenate within 20 min. Filtrates were clear and contained a mean virus recovery of 46.1% in non-dialyzed samples that were concentrated by ultrafiltration. Cytotoxicity was not observed in cell culture monolayers inoculated with non-dialyzed, water-dialyzed or bufferdialyzed concentrates. Dialysis and concentration procedures did not significantly reduce the number of viruses in the filtrates.
Guidelines for using locus of instructional control in the design of computer-assisted instruction

Computers offer a variety of instructional control options to designers of computer-assisted instruction. However, the amount and type of instructional control is affected by both the nature of the learning task and learner characteristics. The purposes of this paper are to present empirical evidence on locus of instructional control, and to present guidelines for determining learner versus lesson control in computer-assisted instruction.
Heparanase: A Critical Determinant of Breast Cancer Metastasis to Brain.

Identification of mechanisms responsible for brain-metastatic breast cancer (BMBC) is imperative for the development of novel therapies. Heparanase (HPSE) is the only functional mammalian endoglycosidase degrading heparan sulfate (HS), the main polysaccharide component of growth factor - binding cell surface and extracellular matrix proteoglycans. HPSE relevance in cancer invasion and metastasis has been established. HPSE overexpression correlates with cancer metastasis, tumor vascularity, and the reduced post-operative survival of cancer patients, making it a promising target for anti-cancer therapeutics.Her-2 is a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family; Her-2 overexpression and EGFR positivity are key characteristics of BMBC. EGFR is important for Her-2 signaling via Her-2/EGFR heterodimer formation. However, mechanisms linking Her-2 function and pathways to precise targets and BMBC onset have not been investigated.We hypothesize that Her-2/EGFR activation augments BMBC by inducing HPSE. We examined HPSE expression, intracellular trafficking, and activity in human Her-2 expressing BMBC models. We demonstrate that: 1) HPSE is expressed in human BMBC cells and expression is augmented according to their metastatic propensities (231parental > 231Br > 231Br2 > 231Br3); 2) EGF induces HPSE expression and nucleolar localization in Her-2 expressing BMBC cells in a dose- and time-dependent fashion; 3) DNA Topoisomerase I (Topo I) is a HPSE target in nucleoli; and 4) HPSE affects Topo I activity and function. Topo I is essential for transcription, and abnormal levels of the enzyme have been observed in a variety of tumors, including brain tumors.These novel findings are relevant to BMBC mechanisms. HPSE – Her-2 interactions will be elucidated to decipher how Her-2 signaling regulates HPSE functionality and mechanistic linkages between these two oncogenic proteins in BMBC cell lines and pre-clinical models. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 6156.
A Framework for Environmental Education Strategies

Environmental education (EE) includes a broad range of teaching methods, topics, audiences, and educators. EE professionals have worked over the last 30 years to provide distinct definitions, guides, objectives, and standards that will help educators know how to differentiate environmental education from other educational efforts and how to deliver it effectively. This article incorporates several recent frameworks of educational strategies into one that has usefulness to formal and nonformal educators as well as communicators. Our purpose is not to redefine EE, but to provide a framework that can help practitioners consider a suite of possible purposes and interventions that can belong under the umbrella of EE. We define four categories of EE according to their purpose: Convey Information, Build Understanding, Improve Skills, and Enable Sustainable Actions.
Localization of a polymer in random media: relation to the localization of a quantum particle.

In this paper we consider in detail the connection between the problem of a polymer in a random medium and that of a quantum particle in a random potential. We are interested in a system of finite volume where the polymer is known to be localized inside a low minimum of the potential. We show how the end-to-end distance of a polymer that is free to move can be obtained from the density of states of the quantum particle using extreme value statistics. We give a physical interpretation to the recently discovered one-step replica-symmetry-breaking solution for the polymer [Phys. Rev. E 61, 1729 (2000)] in terms of the statistics of localized tail states. Numerical solutions of the variational equations for chains of different length are performed and compared with quenched averages computed directly by using the eigenfunctions and eigenenergies of the Schro''dinger equation for a particle in a one-dimensional random potential. The quantities investigated are the radius of gyration of a free Gaussian chain, its mean square distance from the origin and the end-to-end distance of a tethered chain. The probability distribution for the position of the chain is also investigated. The glassiness of the system is explained and ismore » estimated from the variance of the measured quantities.« less
Measurement of the spin-diffusion constant in Ca F 2

The nuclear-spin-diffusion constant $D$ in a powdered sample of pure Ca${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$ was determined to be (5.2 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.6) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}12}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/sec. This determination of $D$ is based on experiments which measure the macroscopic transfer of nuclear Zeeman energy from the surface of the particles to their interiors via nuclear spin diffusion. Several theoretical calculations of $D$ in Ca${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$ yield values consistent with this experimental value.
Mechanisms of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-induced hematopoietic progenitor-cell mobilization.

Abstract Hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPC) can be mobilized from the bone marrow into the peripheral circulation in response to diverse stimuli, including hematopoietic growth factors, cytotoxic agents, and certain chemokines. Despite significant differences in their biologic activities, these stimuli result in the mobilization of HPC with a similar phenotype, suggesting that a common mechanism for mobilization may exist. To explore the mechanisms of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-induced mobilization, we examined HPC mobilization in mice that are genetically deficient for the G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR). Their response was determined to each of three major types of mobilizing stimuli: cytotoxic agents (cyclophosphamide), chemokines (interleukin-8 [IL-8]), and hematopoietic growth factors (G-CSF, flt-3 ligand, and IL-12). These studies demonstrate that the G-CSFR is required for mobilization in response to cyclophosphamide and IL-8, but not flt-3 ligand or IL-12, and suggest that the G-CSFR may play an important and previously unexpected role in HPC migration.
Antihypertensive drugs and the risk of congenital anomalies.

Study Objective To estimate the prevalence of congenital anomalies among the offspring of women exposed and unexposed to antihypertensive drugs during early pregnancy. Design Matched cohort study. Database The United Kingdom's General Practice Research Database. Subjects Women exposed to antihypertensive drugs during early pregnancy and a sample of matched unexposed pregnant women. Measurements and Main Results The prevalence of any anomaly among unexposed and exposed women was 23.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 14.4–38.3) and 20.9 (95% CI 10.0–43.8) per 1000 pregnancies, respectively (relative risk [RR] 0.9, 95% CI 0.4–2.2). The relative risk of limb anomalies among women exposed to β-blockers was 6.4 (95% CI 0.6–70.1). Exposure to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, β-blockers, and calcium channel blockers increased the risk of genital anomalies (RR 3.8, 95% CI 0.9–16.0; RR 2.8, 95% CI 0.7–11.9; RR 1.3, 95% CI 0.1–12.4, respectively). Conclusion ACE inhibitors prescribed in the first trimester of pregnancy appeared to increase the risk of congenital anomalies among the offspring of exposed women (RR 2.5, 95% CI 0.5–13.5). These drugs should be avoided in women planning to become pregnant. A marginally increased risk was also found with exposure to β-blockers (RR 1.4, 95% CI 0.6–3.3). These findings are based on small numbers and are not statistically significant.
Insulin receptor mediates inhibitory effect of insulin, but not of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I, on IGF binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) production in human granulosa cells.

Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) may participate in regulating ovarian function by modifying effects of insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) or by directly affecting ovarian steroidogenesis in both normal and pathological circumstances. The latter include hyperinsulinemic insulin resistant states, such as polycystic ovary syndrome. We examined regulation of IGFBP-1 production in human granulosa cells by insulin and IGF-I. The cells were obtained during in vitro fertilization, plated in McCoy-5A tissue culture medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum (10(5) cells/0.5 mL), and incubated at 37 C, 90% humidity, 5% CO2 for 48 h. After additional 24 h incubation without fetal calf serum, 1, 10, or 100 ng/mL of insulin or IGF-I were added with or without 2 h preincubation with 10 micrograms/mL monoclonal anti insulin receptor antibody IR-47-9. After 48 h incubation with insulin or IGF-I, the medium was collected and IGFBP-1 and progesterone concentrations were measured, using kits from Dia...
A Risk-Benefit Assessment of Antileukotrienes in Asthma

The antileukotriene drugs are the first new therapeutic agents approved for the treatment of asthma in more than 20 years. The currently available compounds are orally active and either prevent the cysteinyl leukotrienes from binding to and activating the cysLT-1 receptor in the lung (leukotriene receptor antagonists) or inhibit leukotriene synthesis (leukotriene synthesis inhibitors). Studies performed in individuals without asthma and patients with asthma reveal that antileukotrienes prevent the bronchoconstriction produced by exercise, cold-air, allergen, aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and sulphur dioxide. Except for the setting of aspirin sensitivity where the antileukotrienes are nearly uniformly effective, individual responses to them are variable with complete protection in some, no protection in others and a modest degree of protection in the majority. The antileukotrienes bronchodilate the airways of patients with baseline bronchoconstriction, although usually not as well as β-agonists. When given for weeks to months they rapidly improve pulmonary function and symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma, and probably in patients with more severe asthma as well, and these improvements persist for the duration of treatment. Here too, their beneficial effects are variable and not predictable based on clinical criteria. Recent studies suggest they can reduce asthma-induced airway inflammation and are equal or more effective than sodium cromoglycate, but equal or less effective than low-to-moderate dosages of inhaled corticosteroids. Initial experience with the antileukotrienes reveals limited toxicity and what appears to be a favourable therapeutic-to-toxic ratio. However, exposure of more patients with differing characteristics for longer periods of time is needed to substantiate this initial impression. The exact role of the antileukotrienes in the treatment of asthma remains to be determined, as does the relative potency of the various agents.
Effect of gas-phase transport in molten carbonate fuel cell

Electrode reaction characteristics involving gas-phase transport effect have been investigated with several 100 cm 2 class molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs). Although the MCFCs operate on gas-phase reactants at relatively high temperature, most of studies on the electrode reaction kinetics have been confined within kinetic-control and liquid-phase mass-transfer regions. To evaluate the gas-phase transport effect in the MCFC, an inert gas step addition (ISA) method was devised in this work. The ISA varies reactant flow rate for an electrode by adding an inert gas, which results in an overpotential shift. Since gas-phase mass-transfer resistance should be a function of reactant flow rate, correlation of the overpotential shifts with the reactant flow rates yields valuable information regarding the gas-phase transport effect in the electrode. The ISA was performed at both the anode and cathode with respect to reactant gas flow rates, addition amounts of inert gas, inert gas species, and currents applied to the cell. The overpotential shifts for both the anode and cathode were found to be inversely proportional to the square root of the reactant flow rate, indicating gas-phase mass-transfer control of both these electrodes. Especially, the overpotential shift values for the anode are much larger than those for the cathode, which suggests that the anode is under severe gas-phase mass-transfer control. From the partial pressure dependence of the overpotential shifts in the cathode, the cathode was found to be a combined gas and liquid-phase mass-transfer control system. # 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Regularity and decay of lattice Green's functions

In the paper we study a class of lattice, covariant Laplace operators with external gauge fields. We prove that these operators are positive and that their Green's functions decay exponentially. They also have regularity properties similar to continuous space Green's functions. All the bounds are uniform in the lattice spacing.
C/EBPε directs granulocytic-vs-monocytic lineage determination and confers chemotactic function via Hlx

Objective Mutations in the CCAAT enhancer binding protein epsilon (C/EBPe) gene have been identified in the cells of patients with neutrophil specific granule deficiency, a rare congenital disorder marked by recurrent bacterial infections. Their neutrophils, in addition to lacking specific granules required for normal respiratory burst activity, also lack normal phagocytosis and chemotaxis. Although the specific granule deficiency phenotype has been replicated in C/EBPe −/− (knockout [KO]) mice, the mechanisms by which C/EBPe mutations act to decrease neutrophil function are not entirely clear. Materials and Methods In order to determine the role of C/EBPe in neutrophil differentiation and migration, we generated immortalized progenitor cell lines from C/EBPe KO and wild-type mice and performed expression and flow cytometric analysis and functional studies. Results Expression of lineage-specific cell surface antigens on our in vitro differentiated cell lines revealed persistent expression of monocytic markers on KO granulocytes. We verified this in primary murine peripheral blood and bone marrow cells. In addition, KO bone marrow had an increase in immature myeloid precursors at the common myeloid progenitor and granulocyte/monocyte progenitor levels, suggesting a critical role for C/EBPe not only in granulocyte maturation beyond the promyelocyte stage, but also in the monocyte/granulocyte lineage decision. We found that restoration of Hlx (H2.0-like homeo box 1) expression, which was decreased in C/EBPe KO cells, rescued chemotaxis, but not the other defects of C/EBPe KO neutrophils. Conclusions We show two new regulatory functions of C/EBPe in myelopoiesis: in the absence of C/EBPe, there is not only incomplete differentiation of granulocytes, but myelopoiesis is disrupted with the appearance of an intermediate cell type with monocyte and granulocyte features, and the neutrophils have abnormal chemotaxis. Restoration of expression of Hlx provides partial recovery of function; it has no effect on neutrophil maturation, but can completely ameliorate the chemotaxis defect in C/EBPe KO cells.
Value of team approach combined with clinical pathway for diabetic foot problems: a clinical evaluation

Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of management of diabetic foot problems (DFP) by the National University Hospital (NUH) Multidisciplinary Diabetic Foot Team combined with a clinical pathway in terms of average length of stay (ALOS), readmission rates, hospitalisation cost per patient, major reamputation rate, and complication rate. Methods: 939 patients admitted to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NUH, for DFP from 2002 (before team formation) to 2007 (after team formation). It consisted of six cohorts of patients - 61 for 2002, 70 for 2003, 148 for 2004, 180 for 2005, 262 for 2006, and 218 for 2007. All patients were managed by the NUH Multidisciplinary Diabetic Foot Team combined with a clinical pathway. Statistical analyses were carried out for five parameters (ALOS, hospitalisation cost per patient, major amputation rate, readmission rate, and complication rate). Results: From 2002 to 2007, the ALOS was significantly reduced from 20.36 days to 12.20 days (p=0.0005). Major amputation rate was significantly reduced from 31.15 to 11.01% (p<0.0005). There was also a significant reduction in complication rate from 19.67 to 7.34% (p=0.005). There were reductions in the hospitalisation cost per patient and readmission rate after formation of the multidisciplinary team but they were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Our evaluation showed that a multidisciplinary team approach combined with the implementation of a clinical pathway in NUH was effective in reducing the ALOS, major amputation rate, and complication rate of DFP. Keywords: clinical pathways; diabetic foot; length of stay; infection; amputation (Published: 30 December 2010) Citation: Diabetic Foot & Ankle 2010, 1 : 5731 - DOI: 10.3402/dfa.v1i0.5731
The Distributional Effects of Local Labor Demand and Industrial Mix: Estimates Using Individual Panel Data

Abstract This paper finds that increases in local labor demand have significant progressive effects on the income distribution, and significantly reduce poverty. The anti-poverty effects of stronger demand have not lessened in recent years. Local labor demand's benefits are particularly great for younger, less-educated men. Labor demand's benefits are similar for blacks and whites, and men and women. The paper also finds that shifts in the local industrial mix toward manufacturing or other high-wage industries do not have progressive effects and do not reduce poverty.
Comparative Effects of 1BL.1RS and 1AL.1RS on Soft Red Winter Wheat Milling and Baking Quality

The wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-rye (Secale cereale L.) chromosomal translocations 1BL.1RS and 1AL.1RS are widely reported to have detrimental effects on hard wheat quality. This study was designed to investigate the impact of these translocations on soft wheat milling and baking quality where information on their effects is limited. A set of backcross-six F 2 -derived F 6 near-isolines containing either the 'Kavkaz'-derived 1BL.1RS or Amigo'-derived 1AL.1RS translocation were developed in five soft red winter wheat backgrounds at Columbia, MO. A randomized complete block design, replicated four times, was grown in each of three Missouri environments. Treatments were arranged as a split-plot with genetic background as the mainplot factor and isolines as the subplots. Both the presence of rye and the source of the translocation (1BL.1RS vs. 1AL.1RS) were significant for all traits measured. 1BL.1RS was associated with a significant reduction in softness equivalent but had no overall effect, across backgrounds, on adjusted flour yield or milling quality, while 1AL.1RS was associated with significant reductions in all three traits. Both translocations were associated with reduced baking quality due to their association with increased alkaline water-retention capacity and reduced kernel softness. For all traits the negative effect of 1AL.1RS was more pronounced than that of 1BL.1RS. Background interaction effects were significant for both milling-quality and baking-quality traits, and often were large enough to offset the negative effects associated with the translocation. This suggested that breeders could develop soft red winter wheat cultivars carrying either translocation that had acceptable end-use quality.
Failure rates in nonlatex surgical gloves

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of glove defects for nonlatex surgical gloves while surgeons performed routine surgery and to evaluate surgeons' satisfaction with nonlatex sterile gloves. Methods Two brands of latex gloves and 6 brands of nonlatex gloves were tested. Gloves were collected at the end of each surgical procedure and tested for visual defects and barrier integrity using an automated calibrated water test machine consistent with FDA's recommended standards. A total of 6386 gloves used by 101 surgeons and 164 residents representing 15 surgical services were included in the analysis. Results Higher after-use defect rates occurred in nonlatex surgical gloves than in latex gloves. Higher times of use were related to higher defect rates for some surgical specialties, and both surgeons and residents were less satisfied with nonlatex surgical gloves. Conclusion Intact latex and nonlatex surgical gloves provide adequate barrier protection. Nonlatex surgical gloves have higher failure rates and lower user satisfaction than latex gloves do. Both nonlatex and latex gloves should be changed after 2 to 3 hours of use because the barrier of either type of glove becomes compromised with extended use.
Stereoselective binding of propranolol to human plasma, α1-acid glycoprotein, and albumin

Our aim was to determine possible stereoselectivity in the plasma binding of propranolol. Equilibrium dialysis with plasma from seven healthy subjects and a deuterium-labeled pseudoracemate of propranolol was used. Plasma binding of the propranolol enantiomers differed with the unbound fraction of (-)-propranolol (22 +/- 2%; mean +/- SE) being smaller than that of (+)-propranolol (25.3 +/- 1.9%). The (-)/(+)-propranolol ratio for the unbound fraction, a measure of the stereoselectivity, was 0.86 +/- 0.02. There was an inverse correlation between the unbound (-)/(+)-propranolol ratio in individual subjects and overall binding of (+/-)-propranolol, indicating greater stereoselectivity at higher total binding. To assess the site of the stereoselective binding to plasma proteins, the binding of (+)- and (-)-propranolol to human alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) and human serum albumin (HSA) was examined. The binding to AGP was stereoselective for (-)-propranolol with a (-)/(+)-propranolol ratio for the unbound fraction of 0.79 +/- 0.01, whereas (+)-propranolol was bound to a greater extent to HSA with a (-)/(+)-propranolol ratio for the unbound fraction of 1.07 +/- 0.01. Although these results demonstrate opposite stereoselectivity in the binding of (+)- and (-)-propranolol to AGP and HSA, the stereoselective binding of (-)-propranolol to AGP predominates in plasma. This stereoselective plasma binding of the (-)-enantiomer of propranolol could limit the access of this more active enantiomer to beta-receptors or other active sites. The uptake of propranolol by red blood cells was not stereoselective.
Effect of S-adenosylhomocysteine on sulfhydryl xenobiotic transmethylases in rat liver

Abstract Rat liver cytosolic thiopurine methyltransferase and microsomal thiol methyltransferase were each found to be subject to control by the absolute molar ratio of S-adenoyslmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine using cell-free enzyme preparations. As this ratio was lowered, inhibition of both sulfhydryl xenobiotic transmethylases occurred. On the other hand, when the ratio was decreased in vivo by the administration of D,L-homocysteine thiolactone to animals, this alteration was accompanied by an inhibition of only thiopurine methyltransferase activity. Thiol methyltransferase activity was not significantly affected after drug treatment, which would suggest that there is a compartmentalization of S-adenosylhomocysteine in the intact hepatocyte.
Evaluating Alternative Temporal Survey Designs for Monitoring Wetland Area and Detecting Changes Over Time in California

Evaluation of wetland extent and changes in extent is a foundation of many wetland monitoring and assessment programs. Probabilistic sampling and mapping provides a cost-effective alternative to comprehensive mapping for large geographic areas. One unresolved challenge for probabilistic or design-based approaches is how best to monitor both status (e.g., extent at a single point in time) and trends (e.g., changes in extent over time) within a single monitoring program. Existing wetland status and trends (ST however, theoretical evaluation and limited implementation in other landscape monitoring areas suggest that alternative designs could increase statistical efficiency and overall accuracy. In particular, designs that employ both fixed and nonfixed sampling locations (alternately termed permanent and temporary samples), termed sampling with partial replacement (SPR), are considered to efficiently and effectively balance monitoring current status with detection of trends. This study utilized simulated sampling to assess the performance of fixed sampling locations, SPR, and strictly nonfixed designs for monitoring wetland S&T over time. Modeled changes in wetland density over time were used as inputs for sampling simulations. In contrast to previous evaluations of SPR, the results of this study support the use of a fixed sampling design and show that SPR may underestimate both S&T.
Megacystis-microcolon-intestinal hypoperistalsis and prune belly: overlapping syndromes.

Megacystis–microcolon–intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) is a rare, often fatal condition. Infants present with a functional obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract (GI), malrotation, microcolon, and a large nonobstructed bladder. Several features common to both MMIHS and Eagle–Barrett or prune belly syndrome (PBS) include hydronephrosis, bladder distension and laxity of the abdominal wall musculature. Additionally, MMIHS and PBS have been reported in the same family, suggesting the possibility of a common pathogenesis. MMIHS usually presents in female infants. We present a male infant diagnosed with both MMIHS and PBS. This is a unique case in which both MMIHS and true PBS are present in the same infant.
Nuclear aerosol behavior during reactor accidents

Abstract Some early reactor accidents are recalled together with their associated environmental consequences. One such consequence is the generation of radioactive aerosol. We describe the various physical processes that such an aerosol cloud undergoes within the secondary containment building. These physical processes are then brought together quantitatively in a balance equation for the aerosol size spectrum as a function of position and time. Methods for solving this equation are discussed and illustrated by the method of moments based upon log-normal and modified gamma distributions. Current problems are outlined and directions for future work into aerosol behavior are suggested.
Characterization of a-Si:H and a-SiGe:H p-i-n and Schottky junctions by admittance circuit modeling

The midgap density of states (MGDOS) and junction properties of a-Si:H and a-SiGe:H alloys are investigated by admittance measurements on p-i-n solar cells. An expression for the capacitance is derived from the frequency, temperature, and bias dependence of the deep state response. The measured admittance is analyzed with an equivalent circuit model. The density of states g/sub 0/, attempt-to-escape frequency, and the Fermi energy are adjusted to fit the measured admittance. Close agreement is found with the measured capacitance and conductance over a wide range of temperature and frequency. The single junction model is shown to apply equally well to p-i-n and Schottky diodes, justifying the neglect of the n-i junction and thin doped layers in the p-i-n device analysis. Fitted values of g/sub 0/ are confirmed by values of g/sub 0/ obtained from the limiting capacitance at high temperature. >
Damage of SAC405 solder joint under PDC

Pulse current induced electromigration (EM) damage of lead-free 95.5%Sn-4.0%Ag-0.5%Cu (SAC405) microelectronics solder joints has been investigated numerically. Solder joints were subjected to 0.05 Hz to 20 Hz pulse current loading with maximum current density varying between 105 A/cm2 and 106 A/cm2 at an ambient temperature of 353 °K. Entropy based damage evolution model was used in this work, which uses the irreversible entropy production rate as a measure of material damage. Thermal fluctuation period is 72s, which lags far behind the current loading period. Low cycle thermal fatigue may happen at current crowding corner. The EM induced damage develops exponentially during the whole loading history. It is observed that increasing duty factor and frequency leads to a faster damage accumulation. EM and thermomigration (TM) induced damage was found proportional to r1.3, f1.5 and j2.3.