bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey of phosphorylation near drug binding sites in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and their effects
Authors: Smith Kyle P. , Gifford Kathleen M. , Waitzman Joshua S. , Rice Sarah E.
Published: May 2014

While it is currently estimated that 40 to 50% of eukaryotic proteins are phosphorylated, little is known about the frequency and local effects of phosphorylation near pharmaceutical inhibitor binding sites. In this study, we investigated how frequently phosphorylation may affect the binding of drug inhibitors to target proteins. We examined the 453 non‐redundant structures of soluble mammalian drug target proteins bound to inhibitors currently available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). We cross‐referenced these structures with phosphorylation data available from the PhosphoSitePlus database. Three hundred twenty‐two of 453 (71%) of drug targets have evidence of phosphorylation that has been validated by multiple methods or labs. For 132 of 453 (29%) of those, the phosphorylation site is within 12 Å of the small molecule‐binding site, where it would likely alter small molecule binding affinity. We propose a framework for distinguishing between drug‐phosphorylation site interactions that are likely to alter the efficacy of drugs versus those that are not. In addition we highlight examples of well‐established drug targets, such as estrogen receptor alpha, for which phosphorylation may affect drug affinity and clinical efficacy. Our data suggest that phosphorylation may affect drug binding and efficacy for a significant fraction of drug target proteins. Proteins 2015; 83:25–36. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Professor Teeling Smith and The Politics of Prescribing
Authors: Baines Darrin
Published: May 2014

In our series on the history of prescribing policy, Dr Darrin Baines traces how successive governments have attempted to curb drug costs. Here, he describes Professor Teeling Smith's warning of the dangers of a ‘cheap drugs’ policy in 1985.
Computer simulations of sputtering and fragment formation during keV C60 bombardment of octane and β‐carotene
Authors: Postawa Zbigniew , Kanski Michal , Maciazek Dawid , Paruch Robert J. , Garrison Barbara J.
Published: May 2014

Molecular dynamics computer simulations are used to investigate material ejection and fragment formation during keV C60 bombardment of organic solids composed from small (octane) and medium (β‐carotene)‐sized organic molecules. Both systems are found to sputter efficiently. For the octane system, material removal occurs predominantly by ejection of intact molecules, whereas fragment emission is a main ejection channel for β‐carotene. A difference in the molecular dimensions is proposed to explain this observation. Fragment formation is investigated to answer the question why so few fragments remain in the bombarded solid. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐Term Effects of Nanoparticles on Nutrition and Metabolism
Authors: Chen Nan , Wang Hui , Huang Qing , Li Jiang , Yan Juan , He Dannong , Fan Chunhai , Song Haiyun
Published: May 2014

Nanoparticles have shown great potential in biological and biomedical applications due to their distinct physical and chemical properties. In the meanwhile, the biosafety of nanoparticles has also raised intense concerns worldwide. To address such concerns, great efforts have been made to examine short‐term effects of nanoparticles on cell survival and proliferation. More recently, exploration of long‐term effects of nanomaterials, particularly those with promising biomedical applications in vivo, has aroused significant interest. For example, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are generally considered non‐toxic to cell growth, whereas recent studies suggest that AuNPs might have long‐term effects on cellular metabolism and energy homeostasis. In this Review, recent advances in this direction are summarized. Further, possible mechanisms under which nanoparticles regulate metabolic signaling pathways, potential long‐term effects on cellular anabolic or catabolic processes, and their implications in human health and metabolic disorders are discussed.
High Electrocatalytic and Wettable Nitrogen‐Doped Microwave‐Exfoliated Graphene Nanosheets as Counter Electrode for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Zhai Peng , Wei Tzu‐Chien , Chang Ya‐Huei , Huang Yu‐Ting , Yeh Wei‐Ting , Su Haijun , Feng Shien‐Ping
Published: May 2014

In this paper, high electrocatalytic and wettable nitrogen‐doped microwave‐exfoliated graphene (N‐MEG) nanosheets are used as Pt‐free counter electrode (CE) for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A low cost solution‐based process is developed by using cyanamide (NH2CN) at room temperature and normal pressure. The pyrrolic and pyridinic N atoms are doped into the carbon conjugated lattice to enhance electrocatalytic activity. N‐MEG film having N‐doping active sites and large porosity provides a wettable surface to facilitate electrolyte diffusion so that improves fill factor. Moreover, the control of the air exposure time after completing N‐MEG film is found to be crucial to obtain a reliable N‐MEG CE. A high DSSC efficiency up to 7.18% can be achieved based on N‐MEG CE, which is nearly comparable to conventional Pt CE.
The Zinc Finger Transcription Factor ZFX Is Required for Maintaining the Tumorigenic Potential of Glioblastoma Stem Cells
Authors: Fang Xiaoguang , Huang Zhi , Zhou Wenchao , Wu Qiulian , Sloan Andrew E. , Ouyang Gaoliang , McLendon Roger E. , Yu Jennifer S. , Rich Jeremy N. , Bao Shideng
Published: May 2014

Glioblastomas are highly lethal brain tumors containing tumor-propagating glioma stem cells (GSCs). The molecular mechanisms underlying the maintenance of the GSC phenotype are not fully defined. Here we demonstrate that the zinc finger and X-linked transcription factor (ZFX) maintains GSC self-renewal and tumorigenic potential by upregulating c-Myc expression. ZFX is differentially expressed in GSCs relative to non-stem glioma cells and neural progenitor cells. Disrupting ZFX by shRNA reduced c-Myc expression and potently inhibited GSC self-renewal and tumor growth. Ectopic expression of c-Myc to its endogenous level rescued the effects caused by ZFX disruption, supporting that ZFX controls GSC properties through c-Myc. Furthermore, ZFX binds to a specific sequence (GGGCCCCG) on the human c-Myc promoter to upregulate c-Myc expression. These data demonstrate that ZFX functions as a critical upstream regulator of c-Myc and plays essential roles in the maintenance of the GSC phenotype. This study also supports that c-Myc is a dominant driver linking self-renewal to malignancy. Stem Cells  2014;32:2033–2047
Evaluation of season‐related dietary changes on the serum profiles of fat‐soluble vitamins, mineral, fatty acids, and lipids in the captive greater one‐horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis)
Authors: Bapodra Priya , Dierenfeld Ellen , Wolfe Barbara A.
Published: May 2014

Circulating concentrations of fat‐soluble vitamins A, D, and E, minerals, fatty acids, and lipids were quantified in five captive greater one‐horned rhinoceroses (Rhinoceros unicornis) throughout two time periods, during which two diets were offered. Animals were fed mixed‐grass hay and concentrate pellets while managed in barns for winter housing (April sampling, winter diet). During the spring and summer, animals were fed the same amount of concentrate pellet but had free access to North American browse and grasses instead of dried forage (November sampling, summer diet). Levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D and α‐tocopherol were statistically higher in summer diet samples than in winter diet samples. Retinol was not statistically different between seasons, and β‐carotene concentrations were undetectable at both time periods. Cholesterol, triglycerides, and non‐esterified fatty acids were all significantly elevated following access to unlimited fresh forages in summer. Serum electrolytes were not different between the two time periods but differences in circulating minerals were noted (cobalt, inorganic iodine, and magnesium elevated in winter diet samples; selenium and zinc elevated in summer diet). Access to non‐native fresh green forages resulted in improvement of several nutritional parameters in greater one‐horned rhinoceroses, implying a benefit when fresh browse and access to grass is provided. Zoo Biol. 33:314–319, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Compliance of District Hospitals in the Center Region of Cameroon with WHO/IATSIC Guidelines for the Care of the Injured: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis
Authors: Chichom‐Mefire Alain , Mbarga‐Essim Nicole Therese , Monono Martin Ekeke , Ngowe Marcelin Ngowe
Published: May 2014

Background

Injuries are a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Low‐income countries, particularly in Africa, are disproportionately affected. The burden of injuries can be alleviated by preventive measures and appropriate management of injury cases. African countries generally lack trauma care systems based on reliable and affordable guidelines. The aim of this study was to assess the compliance of some district hospitals in Cameroon with World Health Organization/International Association for Trauma and Intensive Care (WHO/IATSIC) guidelines for care of the injured.

Methods

This cross‐sectional descriptive survey used items from the WHO/IATSIC “Guidelines for Essential Trauma Care” to develop a checklist for inspection of physical equipment and a questionnaire assessing human resources and organizational capabilities in 25 district hospitals of the Center Region of Cameroon.

Results

All hospitals surveyed had at least one doctor available. Each reported treating a mean of 338 ± 214 injury cases every year. Most hospitals (n = 22) were globally either not compliant or partly compliant with the guidelines. Staff generally had received the appropriate basic training but had no additional training specifically directed toward trauma management. Skills for managing specific injuries (e.g., chest injuries) were poor. Availability and utilization of equipment was globally inadequate, and organizational capabilities were almost nonexistent.

Conclusions

District hospitals of the Center Region of Cameroon still lack compliance with the WHO/IATSIC guidelines for essential trauma care but have significant potential for improvement. It seems possible to optimize the utilization of existing facilities.
Short‐Term Outcomes of Totally Laparoscopic Total Gastrectomy: Experience With the First Consecutive 112 Cases
Authors: Tsunoda Shigeru , Okabe Hiroshi , Obama Kazutaka , Tanaka Eiji , Hisamori Shigeo , Kinjo Yousuke , Sakai Yoshiharu
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Although laparoscopic distal gastrectomy has become a viable treatment option for gastric cancer, laparoscopic total gastrectomy remains in limited use.

Purpose

The present study was designed to evaluate the short‐term outcomes of totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG).

Methods

The records of 112 consecutive patients who underwent TLTG for gastric cancer between September 2006 and November 2012 were reviewed, and surgical outcomes were retrospectively investigated.

Results

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given to 21 patients (18.8 %). The degree of lymphadenectomy was D1+ in 83 patients (74.1 %) and D2 in 29 (25.9 %). The operation time was 359 min, median intraoperative blood loss was 85 ml, and median total number of harvested lymph nodes was 64. Grade II or higher postoperative complications developed in 25 patients (22.3 %). On univariate analysis, pathologic stages IB to IV (versus stage IA) overlapped esophagojejunostomy (versus functional end‐to‐end esophagojejunostomy) and operation time >360 min (versus ≤360 min) were related to postoperative morbidity. In the multivariate analysis, operative time and pathologic stage were independent risk factors for postoperative complications.

Conclusions

TLTG is feasible and can be performed with acceptable postoperative morbidity. A longer operating time and more advanced pathologic stage were significantly associated with higher postoperative morbidity.
Long‐distance seed dispersal by wind: disentangling the effects of species traits, vegetation types, vertical turbulence and wind speed
Authors: Heydel Felix , Cunze Sarah , Bernhardt‐Römermann Markus , Tackenberg Oliver
Published: May 2014

Long‐distance dispersal (LDD) of plant seeds by wind is affected by functional traits of the species, specifically seed terminal velocity and height of seed release above the vegetation cover (HAC), as well as by the meteorological parameters wind speed and vertical turbulence. The relative importance of these parameters is still under debate and the importance of their variability in vegetation types, sites and years has only rarely been quantified. To address these topics, we performed simulation studies for different vegetation types, sites, years and plant species with PAPPUS, a process based trajectory model. We found that LDD (measured in terms of migration rates) was higher in forests compared to open landscapes. Forests also showed greater between‐year variability in LDD. Terminal velocity had an effect on LDD in both vegetation types, while the effect of HAC was significant only in the open landscape. We found considerable differences in how vertical turbulence and wind speed affect LDD between species and vegetation types: In the open landscape the strength of the positive relationship between vertical turbulence and LDD generally decreases with terminal velocity, whereas it increases in forests. The strength of the predominantly positive effect of wind speed on LDD increases with terminal velocity in both vegetation types, while in forests we found even negative relationships for species with low terminal velocity. Our results generally suggest that the effects of vertical turbulence and wind speed on LDD by wind diverge for species with different functional traits as well as in different vegetation types.
Habitat preferences of medium/large mammals in human disturbed forests in Central Japan
Authors: Tsujino Riyou , Yumoto Takakazu
Published: May 2014

It is a great concern whether human disturbed forest, i.e., secondary forest or monoculture forest, can be a habitat for the wildlife. We examined habitat preference of medium/large terrestrial mammal species in a human‐disturbed mountainous settlement area of Akiyama Region, Central Japan, by using camera‐traps, which were placed at conifer plantation forest, high/low‐disturbed deciduous broad‐leaved forest, and broad‐leaved/conifer mixed forest in 2008 and 2009. Camera‐traps were operational for 4568.6 trap‐nights producing 740 photo‐captures of 13 medium/large terrestrial mammal species. Japanese serow and Japanese hare dominated 54 % of all photo‐captures. Low‐disturbed deciduous broad‐leaved forest showed the richest mammal fauna (12 spp.). We suggested that fruit trees and understory vegetation provided suitable habitat for frugivorous as well as herbivorous mammals. The mixed forest showed the lowest mammal fauna (6 spp.), which located higher elevation. High‐disturbed deciduous broad‐leaved forest (9 spp.) was also supposed to be a better habitat for some frugivorous mammals and herbivorous mammals, but tended to be avoided by Japanese marten and Japanese macaque. Conifer plantation forest (7 spp.) with understory vegetation was supposed to be a better habitat for Japanese serow and Japanese hare, but not for the other species. Without fruit trees, conifer plantation forest was supposed to be non‐attractive habitat for frugivorous mammals. We demonstrated that, if a forest had been disturbed by human, the forest can be a habitat for terrestrial herbivores, but this was not always true for frugivores.
Role of varicocele repair for male infertility in the era of assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Kimura Masaki , Nagao Koichi
Published: May 2014

Varicocele is an abnormal condition characterized by dilatation of the pampiniform plexus veins draining the testis and is present in 15 % of men. Varicoceles have an adverse effect on spermatogenesis and are the most common cause of male infertility. Approximately 35 % of infertile men and more than 70 % of men with secondary infertility were reported to have varicoceles. Although data on methods of varicocele repair are accumulating, there remains controversy regarding the indications and techniques for varicocele repair. In addition, the role of varicocele repair in this era of assisted reproductive technologies continues to be debated. In this study, we performed a comprehensive PubMed search in order to review the current status of varicocele repair for male infertility. We reviewed English‐language studies published from 1992 through 2013. After reviewing the articles, we identified a recent meta‐analysis of four randomized controlled trials, which found that varicocele repair for oligozoospermic men was associated with better pregnancy rates as compared with observation. Our review of prospective studies showed that all semen parameters, including sperm concentration, motility, and progressive motility, were significantly improved after varicocele repair. We also summarize the findings of recent studies reporting beneficial effects of varicocele repair, i.e., decreased oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation after varicocele repair and superior cost effectiveness versus in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection alone, which may be important in the era of assisted reproductive technologies. Varicocele repair is a widespread, well‐established procedure that can improve semen parameters in men with infertility. The effect of such treatment on the pregnancy rate is unclear because evidence is limited due to difficulties in recruiting patients for studies. Among the repair techniques, microsurgical repair using a subinguinal approach is potentially the best practice, although this procedure requires training in microsurgery. All these topics require further research in studies with sufficient patient enrollment and follow‐up.
Theory and Practice of Regional Integration Based on the Eurasec Model (Russian Point of View)
Authors: Galiakberov Adel , Abdullin Adel
Published: May 2014

This article shows Russian point of view on the evolution of Eurasian integration as related to plans to create a Eurasian economic entity based on the EurAsEC model that began with the creation of the Customs Union and Common Economic Space. The article analyzes the legal theory of Russian authors of EurAsEC, based on a review of this integration and the legal documents of this process. The article details the institutional mechanism of the functioning of Eurasian integration and its legal characteristics, and gives a short legal history. The article shows that integration of post-Soviet countries based on EurAsEC is more successful than integration based on the CIS model despite the lack of supranational power of the institutions of EurAsEC.
The Russian-Soviet legacies in reshaping the national territories in Central Asia: A catastrophic case of Tajikistan
Authors: Ubaidulloev Zubaidullo
Published: May 2014

In every period of history many parts and territories of the world divide and get a new shape. There are lots of such examples. One clear example is the so-called ‘Grate Game’ and division of Central Asia by the British and Russian Empires. In general, Central Asian region has been under Russian influence for more than 150 years. Today in the 21st century Central Asia once again is facing a new ‘Great Game’, but this time with new and non-traditional powers in the region like the U.S. and China, which challenge the influence of region's traditional power – Russia. This paper tries to touch upon the situation and the tragic fate of Tajiks during the Russian-Soviet empires within the different political entities, administrations and territories. It analyzes the impact of Russian and Soviet legacies and territorial policies on Tajiks and Tajikistan. According to the findings of this paper, most of the previous Western and other foreign authors occasionally and briefly opine about this topic, especially about the catastrophic impact of the Russian and Soviet territorial legacies to the Tajik nation, in their work mainly focusing on the history of Central Asia. The paper draws together the main conclusions of relevant literature and tries to fill the gap within the body of existing literature and understandings concerning the topic.
Incidence and Characteristics of Snakebite Envenomations in the New York State Between 2000 and 2010
Authors: Joslin Jeremy D. , Marraffa Jeanna M. , Singh Harinder , Mularella Joshua
Published: May 2014

Objective

We sought to evaluate the incidence of reported venomous snakebites in the state of New York between 2000 and 2010.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively from the National Poison Data System (NPDS) and then reviewed for species identification and clinical outcome while using proxy measures to determine incidence of envenomation.

Results

From 2000 to 2010 there were 473 snakebites reported to the 5 Poison Control Centers in the state of New York. Venomous snakes accounted for 14.2% (67 of 473) of these bites. Only 35 bites (7%) required antivenom. The median age of those bitten by a venomous snake was 33. Most victims were male.

Conclusions

Although not rare, venomous snakebites do not occur commonly in New York State, with a mean of just 7 bites per year; fortunately most snakebites reported are from nonvenomous snakes. Yet even nonvenomous bites have the potential to cause moderately severe outcomes. Medical providers in the state should be aware of their management.
A Pilot Study of Solar Water Disinfection in the Wilderness Setting
Authors: Tedeschi Christopher M. , Barsi Christopher , Peterson Shane E. , Carey Kevin M.
Published: May 2014

Objective

Solar disinfection of water has been shown to be an effective treatment method in the developing world, but not specifically in a wilderness or survival setting. The current study sought to evaluate the technique using materials typically available in a wilderness or backcountry environment.

Methods

Untreated surface water from a stream in rural Costa Rica was disinfected using the solar disinfection (SODIS) method, using both standard containers as well as containers and materials more readily available to a wilderness traveler.

Results

Posttreatment samples using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, as well as Nalgene and Platypus water containers, showed similarly decreased levels of Escherichia coli and total coliforms.

Conclusions

The SODIS technique may be applicable in the wilderness setting using tools commonly available in the backcountry. In this limited trial, specific types of containers common in wilderness settings demonstrated similar performance to the standard containers. With further study, solar disinfection in appropriate conditions may be included as a viable treatment option for wilderness water disinfection.
A direct fed microbial containing a combination of three-strain Bacillus sp. can be used as an alternative to feed antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production
Authors: Dersjant-Li Yueming , Awati A. , Kromm C. , Evans C.
Published: May 2014

The objective of the study was to test the effect of a direct fed microbial (DFM) on the performance of broilers compared to an antibiotic growth promoter under large scale, commercial production settings. Three dietary treatments were tested in a completely randomized design including: 1) a control (C) diet containing 500 FTU/kg phytase and a mixture of xylanase, amylase, protease ; 2) C+ a specific three-strain combination of Bacillus spp. (DFM) and 3) C+ bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD). Six, similar commercial broiler houses (15,300 birds per house) were used to give two replicate houses per treatment. The birds (Hubbard x Cobb500) were fed pelleted and crumbled diets ad libitum throughout the 44 day trial period. Due to the large scale, commercial nature of the trial, no significant differences were observed in production parameters among treatments, except that DFM treatment resulted in significantly lower mortality numbers in the last two days (43 to 44d) compared to the control. However, the DFM treatment group showed numerically higher live bodyweight, lower feed conversion ratio (corrected for body weight and mortality) and lower total mortality weight compared to either the control or BMD groups, resulting in an improved production efficiency factor. When compared to control, using DFM resulted in a gross benefit of US$ 0.06 /bird, while using BMD was not cost effective. In conclusion, DFM containing a three-strain combination of Bacillus spp. may be used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters, resulting in economic benefit under commercial production settings in broilers fed commercial diets.
Control of jet breakup by a superposition of two Rayleigh–Plateau-unstable modes
Authors: Driessen Theo , Sleutel Pascal , Dijksman Frits , Jeurissen Roger , Lohse Detlef
Published: May 2014

We experimentally, numerically and theoretically demonstrate a novel method of producing a stream of widely spaced high-velocity droplets by imposing a superposition of two Rayleigh–Plateau-unstable modes on a liquid jet. The wavelengths of the two modes are chosen close to the wavelength of the most unstable mode. The interference pattern of the two superimposed modes causes local asymmetries in the capillary tension. The velocity of the initial droplets depends on these local asymmetries. Due to their different velocities, the droplets coalesce to produce a stream of larger droplets spaced at a much larger distance than the initial droplets. We analytically derive the perturbations that robustly induce this process and investigate the influence of the nonlinear interactions of the two Rayleigh–Plateau-unstable modes on the coalescence process. Experiments and numerical simulations demonstrate that the jet breakup and the subsequent droplet merging are fully governed by the selected modes.
Conodonts, radiolarians and ostracodes in the Permian E-Lert Formation, Loei Fold Belt, Indochina Terrane, Thailand
Authors: BURRETT CLIVE , UDCHACHON MONGKOL , THASSANAPAK HATHAITHIP , CHITNARIN ANISONG
Published: May 2014

Conodonts are rare in the Permian carbonates of Indochina but abundant conodonts and ostracodes have been obtained from turbiditic limestones of the Permian E-Lert Formation along with radiolarians from overlying cherts, all deposited on the margins of the interplatform Nam Duk Basin. Conodonts are typically Tethyan and are very similar to faunas from Sicily and south China. They includeHindeodus gulloides,Pseudohindeodus oertlii,Mesogondolella siciliensisandSweetognathus subsymmetricuswhich indicate a probable late Kungurian – Roadian age range although a Wordian age cannot be excluded.M. siciliensis, which has a high blade and small cusp supposedly typical of warm-water conodonts, is found in deep (<500 m) carbonate turbidites in Thailand and in very deep deposits in Oman and Sicily, but generally not in shallow-water tropical limestones in Thailand, Oman and Sicily. The chert sequence yields a radiolarian fauna consisting of 11 confidently assigned species of whichAlbaillella asymmetrica,A. sinuata,Tormentum delicatumandLatentifistula patagilateratasuggest a latest Kungurian – earliest Roadian age, deposited at a palaeodepth ofc.500 m. Ostracodes consist of 16 genera and 23 species which belong toShivaella,Paraberounella,Carinaknightina,Paraparchites,Shemonaella,Bairdia,Cryptobairdia,Bairdiacypris?,Spinocypris,Pseudobythocypris,Baschkirina,Microcheilinella,Basslerella,PolycopeandCyathus, of whichShivaella elertensis sp. nov.Chitnarin is newly described. The ostracodes are a palaeoecologically mixed assemblage comprising external platform and deeper-water forms, suggesting that the limestone turbidites were deposited on the proximal part of the slope.Cyathus caperataandC. ellipticashow a palaeobiogeographic link to south China.
American Exceptionalism as a Problem in Global History
Authors: Allen Robert C.
Published: May 2014

The causes of the United States’ exceptional economic performance are investigated by comparing American wages and prices with wages and prices in Great Britain, Egypt, and India. American industrialization in the nineteenth century required tariff protection since the country's comparative advantage lay in agriculture. After 1895 surging American productivity shifted the country's comparative advantage to manufacturing. Egypt and India could not have industrialized by following American policies since their wages were so low and their energy costs so high that the modern technology that was cost effective in Britain and the United States would not have paid in their circumstances.
How Johnson Fought the War on Poverty: The Economics and Politics of Funding at the Office of Economic Opportunity
Authors: Bailey Martha J. , Duquette Nicolas J.
Published: May 2014

This article presents a quantitative analysis of the geographic distribution of spending through the 1964 Economic Opportunity Act (EOA). Using newly assembled state- and county-level data, the results show that the Johnson administration directed funding in ways consistent with the War on Poverty's rhetoric of fighting poverty and racial discrimination: poorer areas and those with a greater share of nonwhite residents received systematically more funding. In contrast to New Deal spending, political variables explain very little of the variation in EOA funding. The smaller role of politics may help explain the strong backlash against the War on Poverty's programs.
The Role of Publicly Provided Electricity in Economic Development: The Experience of the Tennessee Valley Authority, 1929–1955
Authors: Kitchens Carl
Published: May 2014

I study the impacts of one of the largest regional development projects in American History, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), on a variety of economic outcomes. The TVA has been noted as an example of how to develop a region's water power potential to stimulate growth. In what follows, I show using a county-level panel dataset, that the TVA had little impact on economic growth in the South. I attribute these results to the institutional history of the TVA and the contractual agreements it signed in an effort to expand its service territory.

“…as a pebble dropped in a pond causes ripples to flow outward to the surrounding shores, the influence of TVA'slow rates flows outward to surrounding areas…”

TVA's Influence on Electric Rates 1965
Technology and the Era of the Mass Army
Authors: Onorato Massimiliano Gaetano , Scheve Kenneth , Stasavage David
Published: May 2014

We investigate how technology has influenced the size of armies. During the nineteenth century, the development of the railroad made it possible to field and support mass armies, significantly increasing the observed size of military forces. During the late twentieth century, further advances in technology made it possible to deliver explosive force from a distance and with precision, making mass armies less desirable. We find support for our technological account using a new data set covering thirteen great powers between 1600 and 2000. We find little evidence that the French Revolution was a watershed in terms of levels of mobilization.
Autarky and the Rise and Fall of Piracy in Ming China
Authors: Kung James Kai-sing , Ma Chicheng
Published: May 2014

We examine the impact of rigorous trade suppression during 1550–1567 on the sharp rise of piracy in this period of Ming China. By analyzing a uniquely constructed historical data set, we find that the enforcement of a “sea (trade) ban” policy led to a rise in pirate attacks that was 1.3 times greater among the coastal prefectures more suitable for silk manufactures—our proxy for greater trade potential. Our study illuminates the conflicts in which China subsequently engaged with the Western powers, conflicts that eventually resulted in the forced abandonment of its long upheld autarkic principle.
Studies with Methyridine and Trichinella spiralis 2. The use of the drug to study the rate of larval production in mice
Authors: Denham D. A. , Martinez A. R.
Published: May 2014

It has not been easy to study the rate at which female Trichinella spiralis produce their offspring. Phillipson and Kershaw (1961) described a method of repeatedly grinding and washing infected muscle to collect immature larvae so that one could determine the number of larvae born by the time the animal was killed but their method is unsuitable for dealing with the large number of animals that would be needed for a thorough study of this aspect of the infection. We have sought a method of studying this important factor in the host-parasite relationship.
Influence of tidal phase and circulation on larval fish distribution in a partially mixed estuary, Corral Bay, Chile
Authors: Vargas Cristian A. , Araneda Sandro E. , Valenzuela Guillermo
Published: May 2014

The influence of circulation on abundance patterns of larval fish was compared at different phases of the tide in the vicinity of an estuarine front in Corral Bay, Chile during austral spring. Greatest differences in water salinity were found across the frontal region on ebb tides. Because rainfall was low, density differences were primarily due to tidal intrusion of salt water. Larval density was relatively low during both sampling periods with Strangomera bentincki, Oodntesthes regia laticlavia, Gobiesox marmoratus and Hypsoblennius sordidus as the most abundant species. Total ichthyoplankton was always higher near the tidal front (Stations 2 and 3). Spatial distribution in relation to tidal phase showed different patterns for the most abundant fish larval species. Circulation and larval distribution revealed that the bay was a source of young fish larvae but older individuals could also be recruited in and retained there. Results show that the front could act as a physical boundary for larvae transported from offshore through specific mechanism of circulation related with the tidal regime.
Bushmeat consumption among rural and urban children from Province Orientale, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: van Vliet Nathalie , Nebesse Casimir , Nasi Robert
Published: May 2014

Understanding the importance of bushmeat consumption for household nutrition, both in rural and urban settings, is critical to developing politically acceptable ways to reduce unsustainable exploitation. This study provides insights into bushmeat consumption patterns relative to the consumption of other meat (from the wild, such as fish and caterpillars, or from domestic sources, such as beef, chicken, pork, goat and mutton) among children from Province Orientale, Democratic Republic of Congo. Our results show that urban and rural households consume more meat from the wild than from domestic sources. Of the various types of wild meat, bushmeat and fish are the most frequently consumed by children from Kisangani and fish is the most frequently consumed in villages. Poorer urban households eat meat less frequently but consume bushmeat more frequently than wealthier households. In urban areas poorer households consume common bushmeat species more frequently and wealthier households eat meat from larger, threatened species more frequently. Urban children eat more bushmeat from larger species (duiker Cephalophus spp. and red river hog Potamochoerus porcus) than rural children (rodents, small monkeys), probably because rural households tend to consume the less marketable species or the smaller animals. We show that despite the tendency towards more urbanized population profiles and increased livelihood opportunities away from forest and farms, wildlife harvest remains a critical component of nutritional security and diversity in both rural and urban areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Detection of persistent Plasmodium spp. infections in Ugandan children after artemether-lumefantrine treatment
Authors: BETSON MARTHA , SOUSA-FIGUEIREDO JOSÉ C. , ATUHAIRE AARON , ARINAITWE MOSES , ADRIKO MOSES , MWESIGWA GERALD , NABONGE JUMA , KABATEREINE NARCIS B. , SUTHERLAND COLIN J. , STOTHARD J. RUSSELL
Published: May 2014

During a longitudinal study investigating the dynamics of malaria in Ugandan lakeshore communities, a consistently high malaria prevalence was observed in young children despite regular treatment. To explore the short-term performance of artemether-lumefantrine (AL), a pilot investigation into parasite carriage after treatment(s) was conducted in Bukoba village. A total of 163 children (aged 2–7 years) with a positive blood film and rapid antigen test were treated with AL; only 8·7% of these had elevated axillary temperatures. On day 7 and then on day 17, 40 children (26·3%) and 33 (22·3%) were positive by microscopy, respectively. Real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that multi-species Plasmodium infections were common at baseline, with 41·1% of children positive for Plasmodium falciparum/Plasmodium malariae, 9·2% for P. falciparum/ Plasmodium ovale spp. and 8·0% for all three species. Moreover, on day 17, 39·9% of children infected with falciparum malaria at baseline were again positive for the same species, and 9·2% of those infected with P. malariae at baseline were positive for P. malariae. Here, chronic multi-species malaria infections persisted in children after AL treatment(s). Better point-of-care diagnostics for non-falciparum infections are needed, as well as further investigation of AL performance in asymptomatic individuals.
Permanence criteria for Kolmogorov systems with delays
Authors: Hou Zhanyuan
Published: May 2014

In this paper, a class of Kolmogorov systems with delays are studied. Sufficient conditions are provided for a system to have a compact uniform attractor. Then Jansen's result for autonomous replicator and Lotka–Volterra systems has been extended to delayed non-autonomous Kolmogorov systems with periodic or autonomous Lotka–Volterra subsystems. Thus, simple algebraic conditions are obtained for partial permanence and permanence. An outstanding feature of all these results is that the conditions are independent of the size and distribution of the delays.
Decay estimates in the supremum norm for the solutions to a nonlinear evolution equation
Authors: Juutinen Petri
Published: May 2014

We study the asymptotic behaviour, as t → ∞, of the solutions to the nonlinear evolution equation

where ΔpNu = Δu + (p−2) (D2u(Du/∣Du∣)) · (Du/∣Du∣) is the normalized p-Laplace equation and p ≥ 2. We show that if u(x,t) is a viscosity solution to the above equation in a cylinder Ω × (0, ∞) with time-independent lateral boundary values, then it converges to the unique stationary solution h as t → ∞. Moreover, we provide an estimate for the decay rate of maxx∈Ω∣u(x,t) − h(x)∣.
Contrast sensitivity in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis assessed by sine-wave gratings and angular frequency stimuli
Authors: VIEIRA-GUTEMBERG JÁKINA G. , MENDES-SANTOS LIANA C. , CAVALCANTI-GALDINO MELYSSA K. , SANTOS NATANAEL A. , DE BUSTAMANTE SIMAS MARIA LÚCIA
Published: May 2014

Previous studies have shown that multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the visual system, mainly by reducing contrast sensitivity (CS), a function that can be assessed by measuring contrast sensitivity function (CSF). To this end, we measured both the CSF for sine-wave gratings and angular frequency stimuli with 20 participants aged between 21 and 44 years, of both genders, with normal or corrected to normal visual acuity. Of these 20 participants, there were 10 volunteers with clinically defined MS of the relapsing–remitting clinical form, with no history of optic neuritis (ON), as well as 10 healthy volunteers who served as the control group (CG). We used a forced-choice detection paradigm. The results showed reduced CS to both classes of stimuli. Differences were found for sine-wave gratings at spatial frequencies of 0.5, 1.25, and 2.5 cycles per degree (cpd) (P < 0.002) and for angular frequency stimuli of 4, 24, and 48 cycles/360° (P < 0.05). On the one hand, comparing the maxima of the respective CSFs, the CS to angular frequency stimuli (24 cycles/360°) was 1.61-fold higher than that of the CS to vertical sine-wave gratings (4.0 cpd) in the CG; for the MS group, these values were 1.55-fold higher. On the other hand, CS in the MS group attained only 75% for 24 cycles/360° and 78% for 4.0 cpd of the 100% CS estimates found for the CG at the peak frequencies. These findings suggest that MS affects the visual system, mostly at its maximum contrast sensitivities. Also, since angular frequencies and sine-wave gratings operate at distinct levels of contrast in the visual system, MS seems to affect CS at both high and low levels of contrast.
INTERNATIONAL MACROECONOMIC FLUCTUATIONS
Authors: Kim Soyoung , Lee Jaewoo
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the international dimension of economic fluctuations and transmission of structural shocks by estimating a structural VAR model for the United States, the euro area, and Japan—the three largest economies—over the post-Bretton Woods period. The main findings are as follows: (1) Supply-side shocks (technology and supply-level shocks) explain most of the fluctuations in cross-country output deviations. (2) Real-demand shocks are the most important source of real-exchange-rate fluctuations. (3) Current account is usually influenced by all types of shocks, with technology shocks playing a stronger role. In particular, technology shocks play a prominent role in the existing global imbalance (the large external deficit of the United States). (4) Technology and supply-level shocks generate opposite-signed correlations between output differential and current account, whereas real and nominal-demand shocks generate opposite-signed correlations between real exchange rate and current account.
Stage settings for a connected scene. Globalization and material-culture studies in the early first-millennium B.C.E. Mediterranean
Authors: Hodos Tamar
Published: May 2014

Miguel John Versluys has produced a stimulating and thought-provoking agenda to reinvigorate study of the Roman world, with its myriad social, political and economic connections between Rome and the diverse cultures and communities that fell within and beyond the boundaries of its empire. He teases out the explicitly anti-colonial nature in recent decades of specifically Anglo-Saxon discussions of Rome and its empire in response to Romanization. He also sets these particular understandings of what it meant to live within that empire in a comparative context with other scholarly traditions that engage with Roman studies. He advocates both globalization theories and material-culture perspectives to reconsider aspects addressed by Romanization as a means of pushing the discussion beyond Romans and Natives, where ultimately it still lingers in the guise of much more recent perspectives, which emphasize imperialism. The critical evaluation of Romanization of the 1990s in the Anglo-Saxon tradition was not a unique process for Anglo-Saxon scholarship engaged in study of colonizing cultures, however. Parallels can be seen in contemporary Anglo-Saxon scholarship of the Greek world as well. Does this mean that the potential Versluys sees for Roman studies in the marriage of globalization and material-culture approaches can apply to Greek studies too?
Fetishizing the Romans
Authors: van Dommelen Peter
Published: May 2014

Miguel John Versluys offers a richly textured essay in an attempt to resuscitate the concept of Romanization, which he has found to have been nearly flogged to death, to paraphrase an oft-quoted characterization of the Romanization debate in recent years. To be more precise, he argues that certain quarters of Romanist academia have ‘ganged up’ on the concept over the last decade or so and that others – the implicitly silent majority – have begun to stage a comeback in recent years. Versluys's self-imposed mission is to shore up the Roman resurgence with freshly cut intellectual joists.
The material constitution of humanness
Authors: Barrett John C.
Published: May 2014

This contribution responds to recent calls to establish a ‘symmetrical archaeology’ that will assign agency both to humans and to things. My case is that living and non-living things should be distinguished, and for archaeology to be particularly concerned with the ways different qualities ofhumannesshave been constituted in the symbiotic relationships betweenHomo sapiensand other living and non-living things.
Seeing visual narrative. New methodologies in the study of prehistoric visual depictions
Authors: Janik Liliana
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper is to establish how visual narratives can be used in the social context of storytelling, enabling the remembrance of events and those who participated in them in prehistory around the White Sea in the northernmost part of Europe. One of the largest complexes of fisher-gatherer-hunter art is located here, dating from the Neolithic and the Early Bronze Age (ca 6000–4000 B.P.). A number of methodological strands are brought together to aid in the interpretation of the art, combining Western art-historical and non-Western visual traditions that challenge our modern ways of seeing. The paper proposes an unconventional interpretation of this rock art, in which the prehistoric imagery is ‘translated’ via two short films creating the visual link between past and the present.
Between Composition and Transcription: Ferruccio Busoni and Music Notation
Authors: KNYT ERINN
Published: May 2014

‘The new art of music is derived from the old signs –and these now stand for the musical art itself.’1With this statement, Ferruccio Busoni (1866–1924) summarized his main criticism of traditional music notation – that it was lifeless and outdated. Based on an analysis of Busoni's organic method of keyboard notation (1909), an examination of composition sketches and performance scores, and an investigation of his writings about notation in aesthetic texts – in particular theSketch of a New Aesthetic of Music(1907) – this article shows how Busoni's multifaceted views about notation forged a middle ground between the work as text and the work as performance in an age enthralled to the idea ofWerktreue. In addition, it traces the continuing influence of Busoni's ideas about notation on Arnold Schoenberg and other contemporaneous theorists and composers.
High throughput volatile fatty acid skin metabolite profiling by thermal desorption secondary electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry
Authors: Martin Helen J. , Reynolds James C. , Riazanskaia Svetlana , Thomas C. L. Paul
Published: May 2014

Global VOC skin metabolite profiling. Thermal desorption secondary electrospray ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry classifies skin odour phenotypes by targeted volatile fatty analysis. Examination of the mass spectra reveals the potential for global metabolic studies.
A voltammetric sensor based on eosin Y film modified glassy carbon electrode for simultaneous determination of hydroquinone and catechol
Authors: He Jiahong , Qiu Ri , Li Wenpo , Xing Shaohua , Song Zhongrong , Li Qiang , Zhang Shengtao
Published: May 2014

By using cyclic voltammetry, eosin Y film was electrodeposited on the surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to obtain the modified electrode (denoted as eosin Y/GCE).
Development of a gold nanoparticle based anti-aggregation method for rapid detection of mercury(ii) in aqueous solutions
Authors: Huang Genin Gary , Chen Yen-Ting , Lin Yu-Rong
Published: May 2014

A dynamic anti-aggregation sensing method using unmodified gold nanoparticles(AuNPs) for rapid detection of Hg2+.
Derivatization of genotoxic nitroaromatic impurities for trace analysis by LC-MS
Authors: Wu Xinghua , Zhu Li , Visky Dora , Xie Raymond , Shao Shan , Liang Xiaozhong
Published: May 2014

The authors report a new methodology to detect and quantify trace nitroaromatic compounds by LC-MS after chemical derivatization.
Supramolecular colloidosomes: fabrication, characterisation and triggered release of cargo
Authors: Stephenson Godwin , Parker Richard M. , Lan Yang , Yu Ziyi , Scherman Oren A. , Abell Chris
Published: May 2014

Supramolecular colloidosomes are self-assembled at the interface of microfluidic droplets via a cucurbit[8]uril host–guest complex, allowing for triggered release of aqueous cargo.