cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Validation of not-at-fault driver representativeness assumption for quasi-induced exposure using U.S. national traffic databases.

Abstract Introduction:The quasi-induced exposure (QIE) method has been widely implemented into traffic safety research. One of the key assumptions of QIE method is that not-at-fault drivers represent the driving population at the time of a crash. Recent studies have validated the QIE representative assumption using not-at-fault drivers from three-or-more vehicle crashes (excluding the first not-at-fault drivers; D3_other) as the reference group in single state crash databases. However, it is unclear if the QIE representativeness assumption is valid on a national scale and is a representative sample of driving population in the United States. The aims of this study were to assess the QIE representativeness assumption on a national scale and to evaluate if D3_other could serve as a representative sample of the U.S. driving population. Method: Using the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), distributions of driver gender, age, vehicle type, time, and roadway type among the not-at-fault drivers in clean two-vehicle crashes, the first not-at-fault drivers in three-or-more-vehicle crashes, and the remaining not-at-fault drivers in three-or-more vehicle crashes were compared to the driver population observed in NOPUS. Results: The results showed that with respect to driver gender, vehicle type, time, and roadway type, drivers among D3_other did not show statistical significant difference from NOPUS observations. The age distribution of D3_other driver was not practically different to NOPUS observations. Conclusions: Overall, we conclude that D3_other drivers in FARS represents the driving population at the time of the crash. Practical applications: Our study provides a solid foundation for future studies to utilize D3_other as the reference group to validate the QIE representativeness assumption and has potential to increase the generalizability of future FARS studies.
Role of Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 synthase (L-PGDS) and its metabolite, prostaglandin D2, in preterm birth

The objective of the study was to investigate the role of prostaglandin D2 during pregnancy and its mediator Lipocalin-type prostaglandin D2 synthase (L-PGDS) as a predictor of preterm birth (PTB). Transgenic L-PGDS (+/+), L-PGDS (-/-) and C57BL/6 control pregnant mice models were used to determine the effect of DP1 and DP2 receptor antagonists in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PTB mice. In addition, L-PGDS levels were measured in the cervicovaginal secretions (CVS) of 370 pregnant women using ELISA and further processed for isoform detection using 2-D gel electrophoresis. Our results found that C57BL/6 control mice (n = 26), transgenic L-PGDS (+/+) (n = 26), demonstrated an 89% and 100% preterm birth in LPS (intraperitoneal injection, 20mg/kg) induced mice model respectively. Interestingly, the incidence of PTB was significantly reduced to 40% in L-PGDS (-/-) knockout mice (n = 26). DP1 and DP2 receptor antagonists (0.264 μg/day, dose of 0.1 μg/μl with the flow of 0.11 μl/h for 28 day using Alzet pumps) were used to investigate the effect in LPS-induced PTB in C57BL/6 mice and found 3.3-fold increase in viable pups after LPS-induction. In addition, L-PGDS levels were measured in CVS samples and found that PTB women (n = 296) had two-fold higher levels compared to full term births (n = 74) and established a significant inverse correlation between levels of L-PGDS and days to expected delivery by using 370 preterm birth CVS samples. Elevated L-PGDS levels in the CVS of women may be considered as a potential biomarker for PTB in future. Secondly, the use of DP1 and DP2 receptor antagonists may represent novel tocolytic agents for the treatment of PTB.
Composition-Dependent Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity of Pt-Surfaced PtNi Dodecahedral Nanoframes

Pt-based bimetallic nanoframes have been demonstrated to have high activity for a number of electrocatalytic reactions. Their morphology, crystal facets, and compositions are important factors that...
Acute Pulmonary Embolism in a Healthy Male With Elevated Lipoprotein(a).

Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Its role in venous thromboembolism (VTE) is unclear. We present a case of a healthy man presenting with bilateral pulmonary embolism and investigations suggested elevated Lp(a) being the only risk factor. In this case report, we would like to emphasize the role of Lp(a) in VTE without any other clear predisposing factors.
The Dynamic Life of Virus Capsids.

Protein-shelled viruses have been thought as “tin cans” that merely carry the genomic cargo from cell to cell. However, through the years, it has become clear that viruses such as rhinoviruses and caliciviruses are active and dynamic structures waiting for the right environmental cues to deliver their genomic payload to the host cell. In the case of human rhinoviruses, the capsid has empty cavities that decrease the energy required to cause conformational changes, resulting in the capsids “breathing”, waiting for the moment when the receptor binds for it to release its genome. Most strikingly, the buried N-termini of VP1 and VP4 are transiently exposed during this process. A more recent example of a “living” protein capsid is mouse norovirus (MNV). This family of viruses have a large protruding (P) domain that is loosely attached to the shell via a single-polypeptide tether. Small molecules found in the gut, such as bile salts, cause the P domains to rotate and collapse onto the shell surface. Concomitantly, bile alters the conformation of the P domain itself from one that binds antibodies to one that recognizes receptors. In this way, MNV appears to use capsid flexibility to present one face to the immune system and a completely different one to attack the host tissue. Therefore, it appears that even protein-shelled viruses have developed an impressive array of tricks to dodge our immune system and efficiently attack the host.
Total Abdominal Colectomy

There are instances where the whole colon is diseased and need to be resected. When a patient presents with toxic megacolon, either due to clostridium difficile infection or due to an underlying history of ulcerative colitis, a total abdominal colectomy is indicated. In the emergent setting, this procedure is paired with an end ileostomy. The present chapter describes an open total abdominal colectomy.
The Golden Letter: Innovation Collaboration to Reduce Avoidable Hospital Admissions.

Purpose: Emergency Department (ED) overutilization and avoidable hospital admissions have been identified as areas of improvement. Studies have shown that ensuring adequate primary care follow-up after discharge from ED is an area that can be targeted to help decrease hospitalizations. Methods: Between April 2017 and December 2018, any family medicine patient presented by the ED for admission who was determined to be a candidate for rapid primary care follow-up, was offered a “Golden Letter.” This letter guaranteed that the patient would be evaluated within 48 hours of discharge at the patient’s primary care clinic. We studied the impact on reducing hospital admissions, 30-day ED revisits, and 30-day hospitalizations. Our data analysis included gender, age, and insurance status. Results: A total of 191 ED encounters that may have been admitted to the hospital were instead given a golden letter after shared decision making. A total of 104 (54.5%) completed a follow-up appointment within 48 hours. The 30-day ED revisit rate was 34% (65 encounters) with 33 (31.7%) of these patients having completed a follow-up visit and 32 (36.8%) did not follow up. There were 35 (18.3%) hospital admissions within 30 days of the ED visit. Of the patients admitted, 12 (11.5%) completed a follow-up visit and 23 (26.4%) did not complete a follow-up visit. Conclusion: This initiative effectively reduced the number of low-acuity admissions and 30-day hospitalizations. This concept can provide a significant reduction of health care resource utilization and cost by ensuring safe ED discharge and rapid outpatient follow-up for low-acuity patients.
Are Entrenched Managers’ Accounting Choices More Predictive of Future Cash Flows?

We examine the role manager entrenchment has on firms’ financial reporting quality. More specifically, we test whether entrenched managers’ reported accruals deviate from industry norms and whether entrenched managers’ abnormal accruals are more (or less) predictive of future cash flows. Consistent with implications from prior research, we find that firms with entrenched managers generally report lower levels of abnormal accruals (in an absolute sense), but the abnormal accruals utilized by entrenched managers are more predictive of future cash flows. Contrary to a more traditional view of manager entrenchment, our evidence suggests that entrenched managers report higher quality abnormal accruals. While prior research provides evidence that manager entrenchment is associated with negative economic outcomes, we argue that attempts to limit entrenchment are unlikely to improve financial reporting quality and may actually lower quality. Future corporate governance should consider not only the level but also the quality of the association between accounting choices and manager entrenchment.
Developing Baking-Stable Red Raspberries with Improved Mechanical Properties and Reduced Syneresis

This work identified new treatments to develop red raspberries for baking applications for better consumer appeal. Fresh or frozen fruits are often incorporated in baked products such as muffins and pies. These baked products are very popular due to their fresh, fruity flavor. Raspberries are used as an ingredient in many foods due to their delicious flavor. However, the incorporation of red frozen raspberries turns the baked product red due to syneresis during baking. In this study, we developed baking-stable red raspberries to minimize syneresis during baking. We applied three treatments to the red raspberries: vacuum impregnation with low methoxyl pectin and calcium chloride at 20 °C and a vacuum level of 50.8 kPa, for 7 min; partial dehydration using hot air at a dry bulb temperature of 65 °C until the final water content of 0.65 g H2O/g fruit was reached; and edible coatings at different concentrations. Treated berries were stored in a freezer at − 35 °C for 2 months. We determined the mechanical properties, drip loss, and visual integrity of the frozen-thawed red raspberries before baking to select appropriate coatings. Raspberry muffins were then baked to 204 °C for 20 min. We determined the syneresis from the baked fruit using an image analyzer. Findings indicate that sodium alginate coating on red raspberries at 0.4% (w/v) resulted in minimal syneresis in baked muffins at 13.9%, while commercially frozen raspberries showed syneresis at 62.9%. The maximum force (FM) and gradient (GC) values as firmness indicators were improved from control berries (7.45 N and 2.06 N/mm, respectively) to treated berries (21.16 N and 7.06 N/mm, respectively).
Funding Opportunities for Outcomes Research

It’s All About the Benjamins” (Sean Combs a.k.a. Puff Daddy, June 30, 1997) It is critical for any discussion of research to address funding; four major reasons come to mind. First, high-quality outcomes research is not free. Contrary to the popular belief, outcomes research is not something you do on your laptop while watching television; it is a complex endeavor that requires time, expertise, collaborators, data, computing, and often patient engagement, and all of these things cost money. Second, few of us work in an environment where our clinical margin can finance our research, so money from outside of our clinical practice is necessary. Third, funded research is highly valuable to institutions, mostly because of prestige and indirects (the 25–75 cents or so in facilities and administrative fees that are paid to the institution for every dollar of research funds awarded to the PI). Fourth (likely as a result of third), funded researchers are highly respected in academic institutions; in fact, research funding is often a criterion for promotion, bonuses, etc. This chapter will address what line items are commonly found in budgets of outcomes research grants (What Costs Money), various sources of research funding including government, societies, foundations, and other less-traditional sources (Who Has the Money), the types of grants that are funded, such as career development versus research grants, and their target audiences (Who Gets the Money), an overview of the NIH grant review and funding process (The Road to Riches), and some grantwriting advice (Selling the Drama). Clearly, a handful of pages cannot begin to cover all of the details and advice that an investigator needs D. Segev, M.D., Ph.D. ( ) Department of Surgery and Epidemiology, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 720 Rutland Ave, Ross 771B, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA e-mail: dorry@jhmi.edu J.B. Dimick and C.C. Greenberg (eds.), Success in Academic Surgery: Health Services Research, Success in Academic Surgery, DOI 10.1007/978-1-4471-4718-3__22, © Springer-Verlag London 2014 255
Ion temperature in the Reversatron II RFP

A seven-channel, f14 polychrometer with UV quartz optics has been constructed for ion temperature measurements on the Reversatron II RFP (R/a=50 cm/8 cm). The spectrometer has a focal length of 1.1 m and utilizes an 1800-line/mm grating. The spectrum is spread over a linear array of photomultiplier tubes by a 2-mm-diameter quartz cylinder lens. Resolution is below 0.1 AA, and channel separation is 0.4 AA. Initial measurements have been made in 25-kA helium discharges with no conducting shell surrounding the resistive vacuum chamber. The He I line at 3888 AA, which is predominantly from the plasma edge, indicates T/sub i/ approximately=8 eV. The He II line at 4685 AA, which is less weighted by the edge, indicates T/sub i/ approximately=17 eV. A search is being made for impurity lines that are indicative of the central region of the discharge. Similar measurements will be made with other boundary conditions. >
It Takes a Tissue to Make a Tumor: Epigenetics, Cancer and the Microenvironment

How do normal tissues limit the development of cancer? This review discusses the evidence that normal cells effectively restrict malignant behavior, and that such tissue forces must be subjugated to establish a tumor. The action of ionizing radiation will be specifically discussed regarding the disruption of the microenvironment that promotes the transition from preneoplastic to neoplastic growth. Unlike the highly unpredictable nature of genetic mutations, the response of normal cells to radiation damage follows an epigenetic program similar to wound healing and other damage responses. Our hypothesis is that the persistent disruption of the microenvironment in irradiated tissue compromises its ability to suppress carcinogenesis.
Fast extraction of adaptive change point based patterns for problem resolution in enterprise systems

Enterprise middleware systems typically consist of a large cluster of machines with stringent performance requirements. Hence, when a performance problem occurs in such environments, it is critical that the health monitoring software identifies the root cause with minimal delay. A technique commonly used for isolating root causes is rule definition, which involves specifying combinations of events that cause particular problems. However, such predefined rules (or problem signatures) tend to be inflexible, and crucially depend on domain experts for their definition. We present in this paper a method that automatically generates change point based problem signatures using administrator feedback, thereby removing the dependence on domain experts. The problem signatures generated by our method are flexible, in that they do not require exact matches for triggering, and adapt as more information becomes available. Unlike traditional data mining techniques, where one requires a large number of problem instances to extract meaningful patterns, our method requires few fault instances to learn problem signatures. We demonstrate the efficacy of our approach by learning problem signatures for five common problems that occur in enterprise systems and reliably recognizing these problems with a small number of learning instances.
Rotation symmetry in nonlinear control systems and related control structure

Using the modern geometric approach to nonlinear systems, a class of nonlinear control systems with rotation symmetry analysis is analyzed. It is shown that nonlinear control systems with rotation symmetry admit global decomposition in terms of lower dimensional subsystems. The author also considers systems with internal symmetric structure and proposes a control structure using the property of rotation symmetry. >
When day is done and shadows fall, we miss the airport most of all

Both the effectiveness of pilot training and the safety of flight can be influenced by the distribution of texture in the visual scene, the distance to which the eyes accommodate, and the associated shifts in the apparent size and distance of objects in central and peripheral vision. Studies reviewed and original results presented indicate that these factors are involved in various misjudgments and illusions experienced by pilots: (1) when searching for other airborne traffic or targets, (2) when making approaches to airports over water at night, (3) when breaking out of low clouds on a final approach to a landing by reference to head-up or head-down displays, and (4) when practicing simulated approaches and landings or air-to-surface weapon deliveries by reference to synthetically generated visual systems.
Regulation of Human DAP10 Gene Expression in NK and T Cells by Ap-1 Transcription Factors

Human NKG2D/DAP10 is an activation receptor expressed by NK and subsets of T cells, whose ligands include MHC class I chain-related (MIC) protein A and protein B and UL16-binding proteins that are often up-regulated by stress or pathological conditions. DAP10 is required for NKG2D/DAP10 cell surface expression and signaling capacity. Little is known about the mechanisms that regulate DAP10 gene expression. We describe the existence of multiple transcriptional start sites upstream of DAP10 exon 1 and identify the location of the basic promoter upstream of these starting sites. The promoter is active in NK and CD8+ T cells, but not in CD4+ T cells. We demonstrate TCR-mediated up-regulation of DAP10 transcription and found that a 40 bp region within the DAP10 promoter, containing an Ap-1 binding site, is largely responsible for this increased transcription. Using pull-down and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we show that the DAP10 promoter interacts with Ap-1 transcription factors in primary CD8+ T and NK cells in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression of c-Jun or c-Fos in NK and T cells led to enhanced DAP10 promoter activity and DAP10 protein expression. Taken together, our data indicate that Ap-1 is an important transcription factor for regulating DAP10 gene expression in human NK and T cells, and that Ap-1 plays a key role in the transactivation of DAP10 promoter following TCR stimulation.
Modeling Soot Derived from Pulverized Coal

A semiempirical model has been developed for predicting coal-derived soot. The main feature of the model is a transport equation for soot mass fraction. Tar prediction options include either an empirical or a transport equation approach, which directly impacts the source term for soot formation. Also, the number of soot particles per unit mass of gas may be calculated using either a transport equation or an assumed average. Kinetics are based on Arrhenius rates taken from published measurements. Radiative properties are calculated as a function of averaged optical constants, predicted gas temperatures, predicted gas densities, and the soot mass fractions. This model has been incorporated into a comprehensive coal modeling code and evaluated based on comparisons with soot, temperature, and NOx measurements for three experimental cases. Accurate predictions of soot yields have been achieved for both laminar and turbulent coal flames. Larger scale turbulent predictions illustrated that inclusion of a soot mo...
Vestibulo-ocular pathways modulate extraocular muscle myosin expression patterns.

The genetic and epigenetic influences that establish and maintain the unique phenotype of the extraocular muscles (EOMs) are poorly understood. The vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) represents an important input into the EOMs, as it stabilizes eye position relative to the environment and provides a platform for function of all other eye movement systems. A role for vestibular cues in shaping EOM maturation was assessed in these studies using the ototoxic nitrile compound 3’,3’-iminodipropionitrile (IDPN) to eliminate the receptor hair cells that drive the vestibulo-ocular reflex. Intraperitoneal injections of IDPN were followed by a 2-week survival period, after which myosin heavy chain (MyHC) analysis of the EOMs was performed. When IDPN was administered to juvenile rats, the proportion of eye muscle fibers expressing developmental and fast myosins was increased, while EOM-specific MyHC mRNA levels were downregulated. By contrast, IDPN treatment in adult rats affected only the proportion of fibers expressing developmental MyHC isoforms, leaving the EOM-specific MyHC mRNA unaltered. These data provide evidence that the VOR modulates EOM-specific MyHC expression in development. The lack of significant changes in EOM-specific MyHC expression in adult EOM following IDPN administration suggests that there may be a critical period during development when alterations in vestibular activity have significant and permanent consequences for the eye muscles.
State Parties in the 2000 Senate Elections

Objective. This article examines state party activity in support of U.S. Senate candidates during the 2000 election. The literature on the service role of parties suggests that national parties will be active in support of candidates, while state parties will be inclined to provide mobilization services. However, state parties are also in a good position to provide campaign contributions and technical services usually supplied by national party organizations. Methods. Focusing on the 2000 elections, I use campaign finance data from the Federal Election Commission as well as original data derived from a survey of the state parties to investigate the relationship between state parties and U.S. Senate candidates. Results. The results indicate not only that state parties were remarkably active in support of U.S. Senate candidates, but also that Republican state parties appeared to better target their support to more deserving candidates than did Democratic state parties. Closer scrutiny, however, reveals that the Democrats, by using state party organizations as the conduit of coordinated expenditures, were more successful in providing resources to candidates who would win. Conclusions. Although much of the activity of state party organizations is explained by money transfers from national party organizations, it is the transfer of hard money that accounts for state party activity in U.S. Senate campaigns. This brings into question the impact of recent campaign finance reforms on the relationship between state parties and U.S. Senate candidates.
Spotlight on ionic liquids

Ionic liquids are an emerging class of materials with a diverse and extraordinary set of properties. Understanding the origins of these properties and how they can be controlled by design to serve valuable practical applications presents a wide array of challenges and opportunities to the chemical physics and physical chemistry community. We highlight here some of the significant progress already made and future research directions in this exciting area.
62-dB-gain multiple-pass slab geometry Nd:YAG amplifier

A flash-lamp-pumped slab Nd:YAG laser amplifier with 62 dB of gain is demonstrated. The amplifier remains linear for energy extraction up to 12 mJ, and the beam spatial quality remains good at repetition rates up to 10 Hz. The slab geometry provides for gain averaging in the zigzag dimension, thus eliminating the undesirable effects of nonuniform pumping. This averaging and the necessity for only a single compact gain element are valuable attributes that may allow for eventual laser-diode array pumping of the slab Nd:YAG amplifier.
On-road black carbon instrument intercomparison and aerosol characteristics by driving environment

Abstract Large spatial variations of black carbon (BC) concentrations in the on-road and near-road environments necessitate measurements with high spatial resolution to assess exposure accurately. A series of measurements was made comparing the performance of several different BC instruments (Single Particle Soot Photometer, Photo-Acoustic Soot Spectrometer, and Aethalometer) for high time resolution mobile measurements, capable of mapping spatial gradients. All instruments were highly correlated at high time resolution (r2 = 0.80–0.89 at a 2-s resolution), however the slope ranged from 0.52 to 1.03, with the Single Particle Soot Photometer (SP2) consistently reporting the lowest BC concentrations. BC and ultrafine particle (UFP) concentrations were two-fold higher on the highway compared to surrounding roads with lower traffic counts. The BC size distribution had a mass median diameter of approximately 120 nm, which was smaller and less coated than aged urban BC. Mean UFP and BC concentrations were 2 and 1.4 times greater, respectively, during free flowing traffic on the highway compared with times when there was stop-and-go congestion, providing evidence that transit time is not a good predictor of BC or UFP exposure.
Initiation efficiency in the synthesis of molecular brushes by Grafting from via atom transfer radical polymerization

Grafting from via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) was employed for the synthesis of densely grafted molecular brushes. A poly(2-(2-bromopropionyl)oxyethyl methacrylate) (PBPEM) macroinitiator was used to polymerize n-butyl acrylate (BA) with various degrees of polymerization. The brush syntheses proceeded with first-order kinetic behavior, and the molecular weights determined by gel permeation chromatography coupled with multiangle laser light scattering (GPC-MALLS) increased linearly with conversion. The PBA side chains (SCs) were cleaved by acid solvolysis, and the resulting products were characterized in order to study the initiation process in the synthesis of molecular brushes. By comparing the molecular weight of the cleaved SCs to their theoretical molecular weights (calculated assuming quantitative initiation), the grafting efficiency was determined as a function of monomer conversion. In the early stages of polymerization, the initiation efficiency is low but gradually increases to 87...
Cultural mediation in library and information science (LIS) teaching and learning

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to attempt to highlight the importance of culturally mediated instruction in library and information science (LIS) teaching and learning.Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses three distinct approaches in culturally mediated instruction and learning environment, as product, process, and philosophy. The paper deals with the general concept of the cultural dimension of human development through identification of students who are culturally different from the main stream orientation, by creating culturally mediated instruction in a learning environment The paper further elaborates the role of LIS schools in this direction. It concludes by suggesting ways in which LIS education could be improved by being inclusive with the changing global society and its needs.Findings – It is evident that culturally inclusive instruction can enhance the learning of LIS students who are responsive to the needs of their diverse communities and who are able to be change agents to the...
The identity of alcohol sulfotransferases with hydroxysteroid sulfotransferases.

Abstract Hydroxysteroid sulfotransferase 1, an enzyme effective in the transfer of sulfate from adenosine 3′-phosphate-5′-phosphosulfate to a wide variety of hydroxysteroids, was purified to homogeneity from rat liver. The protein is 180,000 daltons with subunits of 28,000 daltons. The actual specificity of the enzyme is not limited to hydroxysteroids. Rather, a wide range of alcohols were found to serve as sulfate acceptors. Among these are the primary aliphatic alcohols that have a lower apparent Km and high apparent V as a function of increasing chain length beginning with ethanol. Hydroxysteroids with either a primary or secondary alcohol group are substrates but estrone, with a phenolic hydroxyl group, is not. Secondary alcohols that are substrates include ascorbic acid, chloramphenicol, ephedrine, propranolol, and vitamin D. Sterol sulfotransferase 2, a homogeneous enzyme preparation, and sulfotransferase 3, a preparation of approximately 90% purity, are similar to sulfotransferase 1 in their specificity for primary and secondary alcohols.
The Influence of Acculturation on Breastfeeding Initiation and Duration for Mexican-Americans

This paper uses data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study to test the hypotheses that (1) similar to other positive pre- and post-natal outcomes, Mexican immigrant mothers are more likely to breastfeed, and to breastfeed longer, than white or Mexican-American mothers; and (2) acculturation accounts for the ethnic/nativity differential in breastfeeding initiation and duration. The results support both hypotheses. Mexican immigrants to the U.S. are much more likely than whites to breastfeed, and to breastfeed longer. Mexican-American mothers, after controlling for background characteristics, have similar initiation and duration to whites. Using expanded acculturation measures developed for this paper, acculturation accounts for some of the difference between whites and Mexican immigrants in breastfeeding initiation, and much of the difference for breastfeeding duration. The results suggest that low levels of acculturation operate to protect Mexican immigrants from choosing to formula-feed, which gives their babies many health advantages, and may be associated with better health outcomes across the life course. The results also suggest that successive generations of Mexican immigrants may abandon breastfeeding, which is deleterious for their infants.
On CC-comparability invariance of the fixed point property

Abstract It is proved that the fixed point property is a comparability invariant for the class of chain-complete ordered sets. As a lemma we derive a canonical decomposition for chain-complete ordered sets.
Development of genomic SSR markers for fingerprinting lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivars and mapping genes

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is the major crop from the group of leafy vegetables. Several types of molecular markers were developed that are effectively used in lettuce breeding and genetic studies. However only a very limited number of microsattelite-based markers are publicly available. We have employed the method of enriched microsatellite libraries to develop 97 genomic SSR markers. Testing of newly developed markers on a set of 36 Lactuca accession (33 L. sativa, and one of each L. serriola L., L. saligna L., and L. virosa L.) revealed that both the genetic heterozygosity (UHe = 0.56) and the number of loci per SSR (Na = 5.50) are significantly higher for genomic SSR markers than for previously developed EST-based SSR markers (UHe = 0.32, Na = 3.56). Fifty-four genomic SSR markers were placed on the molecular linkage map of lettuce. Distribution of markers in the genome appeared to be random, with the exception of possible cluster on linkage group 6. Any combination of 32 genomic SSRs was able to distinguish genotypes of all 36 accessions. Fourteen of newly developed SSR markers originate from fragments with high sequence similarity to resistance gene candidates (RGCs) and RGC pseudogenes. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) of L. sativa accessions showed that approximately 3% of genetic diversity was within accessions, 79% among accessions, and 18% among horticultural types. The newly developed genomic SSR markers were added to the pool of previously developed EST-SSRs markers. These two types of SSR-based markers provide useful tools for lettuce cultivar fingerprinting, development of integrated molecular linkage maps, and mapping of genes.
The Rat Neurotensin Receptor Expressed in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells Mediates the Release of Inositol Phosphates

To study second messenger synthesis mediated by the cloned rat neurotensin receptor, we derived a cell line stably expressing this receptor. The cDNA clone of this receptor was subcloned into the pcDNA1neo expression vector. This construct was then used to transfect Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-K1 cells. Colony clones, selected for resistance to antibiotic G-418 sulfate, were isolated and grown separately. Nineteen individual clones were screened for total [3H]neurotensin binding as an indication of neurotensin receptor expression. The clone (CHO-rNTR-10) showing the highest level of specific [3H]neurotensin binding was characterized further. With intact cells, the equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) for specific [3H]neurotensin binding was 18 nM, and the maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) was 900 fmol/mg of protein or 740 fmol/10(6) cells (approximately 4.4 x 10(5) sites on the cellular surface). Whereas the KD was similar to that found in other cellular systems, for example, the murine neuroblastoma clone N1E-115, the Bmax exceeded previously reported values. Incubation of intact CHO-rNTR-10 cells with neurotensin caused the release of inositol phosphates in a dose-dependent manner (EC50 = 3 nM), results indicating that the expressed transfected receptor was functional. Neurotensin did not inhibit cyclic AMP levels stimulated by forskolin. As with other systems, neurotensin (8-13) was more potent than neurotensin Neurotensin-mediated inositol phosphate release is the first report of second messenger synthesis for this receptor expressed in a transfected cell line. These results suggest that the relation between structure and function of the neurotensin receptor can be readily studied in transfected cell lines.
Lipid activation of undecaprenol kinase from Lactobacillus plantarum.

Extraction of membranes of Lactobacillus plantarum with Triton X-100/ glycerol solubilized up to 80% of the undecaprenol kinase activity. Fractionation of the extract by gel chromatography separated endogenous phospholipid from the enzyme but simultaneously inactivated the enzyme. The kinase was reactivated by reconstitution with various synthetic phosphatidylcholines and purified L. plantarum phospholipids. Ditetradecanoylphosphatidylcholine and lysylphosphatidylglycerol were the best activators. Furthermore, the optimal environment for enzyme stimulation was provided by different defined molar ratios of Triton X-100/phospholipid. The ratios for the phospholipids tested ranged from 1.25 to 6.3. Similar substrate specificity and kinetic constants were observed for both the solubilized and reconstituted enzymes suggesting that no fundamental changes in the enzyme activity occurred during the delipidation-reconstitution process.
Thrombolysis-related early patency reduces ECG late potentials after acute myocardial infarction

Abstract To assess the effects of thrombolysis and reperfusion on late potentials after myocardial infarction, 101 patients (79 men, age 63.2 ± 10.5 years) underwent signal-averaged ECG studies at 10.7 ± 9.2 days, with the use of a 40 to 250 Hz band-pass filter. Patients were divided into four groups: (1) 54 patients treated with thrombolytic agents at 2.8 ± 1.1 hours, with 81% "early" patency/reperfusion (TIMI grades 2 and 3); (2) 47 patients treated conventionally with 45% "late" patency/reperfusion; (3) 56 patients with patency (TIMI grades 2 and 3); and (4) 26 patients without patency (TIMI grades 0 and 1). A late potential was present when ≥ 2 of 3 defined criteria were present. There was a significant difference in the incidence of late potentials between groups 1 and 2 (22% vs 43%, respectively; p = 0.048) and between groups 3 and 4 (18% vs 50%, respectively; p = 0.006). Late potentials also tended to occur less often after "early" than after "late" patency/reperfusion (12.5% vs 25%). The odds ratio for developing a late potential was 0.39 for thrombolysis versus no thrombolysis ( p p
Non-Stationarity of Tree Branching Patterns and Bifurcation Ratios

Branching patterns in organisms have been analysed by using branch ordering and bifurcation ratio techniques originally developed by geomorphologists to study stream drainage patterns. An underlying assumption of these methods is that branching patterns are stationary across boundaries of scale so that a subsample will accurately model a larger structure. This assumption of stationarity is not generally valid for tree branching patterns. Data from four species reveal two specific patterns of non-stationarity that are directly related to morphological patterns of shoot development. Average bifurcation ratios appear to be inappropriate descriptions of tree branching patterns, since they are based solely on relative branch position and ignore biologically important details of form and development.
Down-regulation of phosphatidylinositol response to BDNF and NT-3 in cultures of cortical neurons

Abstract The hydrolysis of phosphatidyl 4,5-biphosphate (PI), which is involved in the transduction mechanism of neurotransmitters and growth factors, is stimulated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) in primary cultures of fetal brain neurons. In the present study we sought to examine the effect of pretreatment with these factors on their acute stimulation capabilities and, furthermore, to substantiate that the effects of BDNF and NT-3 reflect actions on neurons rather than glial cells. Pretreatment with BNDF and NT-3 for 4 days followed by 1 day without growth factor abolished the effect of an acute stimulation with these factors. The growth factors were mutually effective so that BDNF pretreatment abolished the acute response to NT-3 and vice versa. In contrast, the effects of bFGF (basic fibroblast growth factor, a non-neurotrophin growth factor) also stimulating PI hydrolysis in these culture systems, were not reduced by neurotrophin pretreatment. Pretreatment with K-252b, at concentrations known to inhibit trk receptors, did not alter the acute stimulation of PI hydrolysis induced by the neurotrophins. PI hydrolysis stimulated by BDNF and NT-3 in cultures grown in presence of cytosine arabinoside C, containing > 95% neurons, was higher than in cultures containing non-neuronal cells, indicating that the neurotrophin stimulation occurs in neuronal cells. No stimulatory effect was detected in bFGF treated pure neuronal cultures. The findings suggest that prolonged exposure of responsive neurons to BDNF and NT-3 down-regulates their stimulatory effects on PI hydrolysis.
Research perspectives in inherited lymphatic disease.

: The hereditary lymphedemas provide an opportunity to identify genes involved in normal and deranged lymphatic development. Genetic analysis of families with Milroy's disease identified mutations in VEGFR3 as a cause of congenital lymphedema, confirming the importance of VEGFC/VEGFR3 signaling in lymphatic development. These observations led to the identification of a mouse model for primary lymphedema, and subsequent analysis of this mouse model, using transgenic and gene transfer techniques, has provided initial clues to the development of a biologically based therapy for primary lymphedema. Of more importance from a public health perspective is the fact that manipulation of this pathway may lead to effective therapies for the more prevalent forms of secondary lymphedema. Identification of FOXC2 as the gene mutated in the lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome has revealed new molecular insight into lymphatic development. Molecular analysis of the FOXC2 pathway may provide clues to developmental pathways shared by the lymphatic system and the other developmental abnormalities associated with this complex syndrome. With improving knowledge of the human genome, genetic analysis of families with lymphedema continues to offer one of the most promising approaches to identifying genes influencing lymphatic development.
Risks of Sedation and Analgesia

Procedural sedation and analgesia is a crucial component of gastrointestinal endoscopy. Assessment of sedation risk, proper training and recognition of potential adverse physiologic events are the keystones to success. This chapter will provide an evidence-based review of these topics in addition to emerging trends in sedation and advanced physiologic monitoring.
Individual and combined effects of cimetidine and ciprofloxacin on theophylline metabolism in male nonsmokers.

1. The individual and combined effects of cimetidine and ciprofloxacin on theophylline metabolism were examined in six young male nonsmokers. 2. Treatment sequence consisted of 7 days each of cimetidine 400 mg p.o. every 12 h. ciprofloxacin 500 mg p.o. every 12 h, and the combination of cimetidine and ciprofloxacin. 3. Studies of theophylline pharmacokinetics were performed at baseline and on the fifth day of each regimen. 4. Individually, cimetidine and ciprofloxacin decreased the clearance of theophylline by 25% and 32%, respectively. Therapy with the combined regimen resulted in a 41% reduction in theophylline clearance, which was greater than that achieved with each drug alone (P < 0.01). 5. Ciprofloxacin, in contrast to cimetidine, inhibited N-demethylations of theophylline to a significantly greater extent than the hydroxylation pathway. Combined treatment produced a further decline in formation of 1,3-dimethyluric acid than each drug alone. 6. These data suggest that coadministration of cimetidine and ciprofloxacin exerts a greater impairment of theophylline biotransformation than each inhibitor alone. The enhanced inhibitory effect from the two inhibitors will occur only when sub-maximal doses of each individual agent are used.
Single-shot, spatio-temporal electro-optic mapping of THz waveforms with linear detection using Temporal Electric-field Cross-correlation (TEX)

We present an electro-optic method for single-shot spatio-temporal THz waveform-mapping which avoids distortions associated with spectral encoding and retains the benefits of nonlinear cross-correlation but using linear detection. THz waveforms from laser-plasma accelerator are reconstructed.
Unequal distribution of DNA in the macronuclear division of the ciliate Euplotes eurystomus

During asexual fission in the ciliate Euplotes eurystomus, the macronucleus divides amitotically. The macronucleus was found to divide unequally, yielding sister pairs having a mean difference in DNA content of 11.6%. DNA content was determined by the Feulgen reaction using a fluorescent Schiffs reagent, and measuring fluorescence by cytophotometry. Variability in macronuclear DNA content was also examined in randomly-paired non-sister cells, and found to be greater than in sister cells. This greater variability could be due to accumulation of differences over a number of divisions, or to interclonal differences in equality of division. Two categories of non-sister cells were examined: recently divided, and “parents” constructed by averaging the DNA contents of progeny. Both showed similar variability in quantity of macronuclear DNA. The fact that cells surviving to divide showed no less variability in amount of DNA than cells immediately after division suggests that extremes in amounts of DNA resulting from unequal division are not selected against.
The complex identity of brain tumors: emerging concerns regarding origin, diversity and plasticity.

Abstract Elucidation of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying neoplasia is one of the great success stories of modern science, but this success has not been associated with parallel improvements in the treatment of malignant tumors. One possible explanation for this failure is that the most important variables that support growth of malignancies are not yet identified. Another possible explanation, however, is that multiple variables important in neoplastic progression combine to create a level of disease complexity not taken into account by current therapeutic approaches. The study of development and neoplasia in the CNS provides some of the strongest support for the latter view – a view that, if correct, would suggest that a radical rethinking of the biology of malignancy is required if we are to make progress in the treatment of this important medical condition.
Surgical Management of Acute Right Lower-Quadrant Pain in Pregnancy: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background The etiology of right lower-quadrant pain in pregnant patients is a challenge in diagnosis. We discuss the surgical issues among pregnant patients with right lower-quadrant pain and demonstrate the method to diagnosis. Study Design This was a prospective cohort study with enrollment during 2 years. Pregnant patients presenting with acute right lower-quadrant abdominal pain and requiring surgical consult were included. Demographics, gestational age, symptoms, workup, operative results, and pathology were recorded. Results One-hundred patients were enrolled, 38 had nonspecific abdominal pain, 15 of whom were admitted. There were no differences in temperature, leukocyte count, and neutrophil shift among the admitted and nonadmitted patients. Forty-one patients underwent surgery and had a substantially higher gestational age, leukocyte count, and neutrophil shift than those who did not. Ultrasound was performed considerably more often on first-trimester patients (81.6%) compared with second- (58.1%) and third-trimester (57.9%) patients, and CT scan was used considerably less in the first trimester compared with the second and third trimesters, and considerably less than ultrasound for the first trimester. Sensitivity of ultrasound for appendicitis was inversely correlated to fetal gestational age, and CT scan retained high sensitivity and specificity throughout pregnancy. Conclusions This is one of the first prospective studies assessing diagnoses and workup of pregnant patients with right lower-quadrant pain. We recommend abdominal ultrasound be the first imaging modality for patients for whom surgical consultation is necessary, thereby determining if the pathology is obstetric. If inconclusive, a CT scan is necessary to guide treatment.
PHOTOINDUCED REACTIONS OF TRI-TERT-BUTYLINDIUM WITH (DIETHYLAMINO)TRIMETHYLSTANNANE AND (DI-N-BUTYLAMINO)TRIMETHYLSTANNANE

The preparations of [(t-Bu)(2)InNEt(2)](2) and [(t-Bu)(2)InN(n-Bu)(2)](2) by the photoinduced reactions of (t-Bu)(3)In with Et(2)NSnMe(3) and (n-Bu)(2)NSnMe(3), respectively, have been investigated. The isolation and characterization of products other than [(t-Bu)(2)InNR(2)](2) in these reactions clearly indicate that the reactions of (t-Bu)(3)In with R(2)NSnMe(3) do not proceed by simple alkyltrimethyltin elimination. A possible radical mechanism for the formation of the byproducts has been suggested. X-ray crystallographic studies indicate that both compounds are dimeric in the solid state. Crystallographic data: for [(t-Bu)(2)InNEt(2)](2), orthorhombic space group Pbca (No. 61), a = 19.135(7) A, b = 19.670(6) A, c = 15.793(7) A, V = 5944.41(5) A(3), rho(calcd) = 1.346 g cm(-)(3); for [(t-Bu)(2)InN(n-Bu)(2)](2), triclinic space group Po (No. 2), a = 11.943(2) A, b = 15.790(1) A, c = 10.711(3) A, alpha = 98.60(1) degrees, beta = 103.54(2) degrees, gamma = 94.85(1) degrees, V = 1926 A(3), rho(calcd) = 1.232 g cm(-)(3). Mass spectrometry data indicate that both compounds exist as dimers in the gaseous state.