cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multidrug-resistant genes are associated with an 86-kb island in Acinetobacter baumannii

A strain of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii that caused a 26% mortality rate in a French epidemic was characterized and compared with an antibiotic-susceptible strain of A. baumannii. The multiresistant strain carries many of its antibiotic-resistance genes on an 86-kb region, whereas the susceptible strain lacks these genes in a homologous region. Characterization of this multidrug-resistant A. baumannii strain highlights the limited options for current therapy and raises concerns for future treatment options in an era in which few novel antibiotics are being developed.
Probabilistic steady-state and dynamic security assessment

A comprehensive framework for probabilistic steady-state and dynamic security assessment is presented. The time to insecurity is used as the measure of system security. Its probability distribution is obtained from the solution of a linear vector differential equation having coefficients that are expressed in terms of steady-state and dynamic security regions. An illustrative example for a simple system is given. >
Relativistic spin: Tops and wave equations

Abstract Angle, rotation and angular momentum take on additional complexity relativistically. In this paper, covariantly defined rotational coordinates — in fact, just three-dimensional top coordinates — are studied in classical and quantum mechanics. A wave equation, of a particularly simple form, for particles of arbitrary spin in the presence of an external electromagnetic field is presented.
Redescription and neotypification of a poorly known freshwater ectocommensal ciliate, Larvulina variabilis (Penard, 1922), and consideration of its systematic position

Abstract The morphology and infraciliature of Larvulina variabilis collected from freshwater Gammarus near Boise, Idaho (USA) were investigated using live observation and silver impregnation. Larvulina variabilis was collected from three sites in Idaho and one site in Michigan, indicating a wide distribution. Larvulina variabilis is a small (21–25×14–19 μm in vivo) hymenostome ectocommensal on freshwater amphipods. Distinguishing morphologic features include an inflexible cortex with a prominent notch in the left posterior margin, a single globular macronucleus, a single posterior contractile vacuole, a somatic ciliature with 10 kineties all consisting of ciliated dikinetids, a “6”-shaped paroral membrane of the stichodyad type, long (∼20 μm), immobile cilia arising from three adoral membranelles, a discrete dorsal thigmotactic ciliary field consisting of five kineties, distinctive extrusomes and a coarsely polygonal silverline pattern. The forward-projecting anterior cilium emphasized in the original description is an inconstant finding not essential for identification. An improved diagnosis is provided for the genus and the species. Because no type specimen exists and prior descriptions were conflicting, a specimen from the Idaho population is designated as the neotype. The systematic position of this unusual ciliate remains obscure. Possibly, it belongs to the Pleuronematida or the Thigmotrichida.
Human Patient Simulation Versus Written Case Studies for New Graduate Nurses in Nursing Orientation: A Pilot Study

Abstract Introduction Professional nurse educators in acute care are challenged to increase the level of clinical performance of new graduate nurses. There is little research on the most effective method available to facilitate this process completed the quasi-experimental pilot study. Method This quasi-experimental pilot study compared the clinical performance, satisfaction with orientation, and employment outcomes of two groups of new graduate nurses: one group completing human patient simulation (HPS) scenarios and one group completing written case studies on the same complex clinical cases. The stratified purposive sample included twenty new graduate nurses. Results There were no differences in satisfaction with orientation or retention between the two groups. There were no differences in assessment, interventions, or communication performance between the two groups. The experimental group (HPS) performed better on safety behaviors than the control group (written case studies). Conclusions The pilot data on safety performance provided insights for a larger study comparing these two teaching methods.
Frequency response of non-linear single degree-of-freedom systems

Abstract Simple linear Kelvin or Maxwell models cannot predict adequately the response of many practical systems to vibration excitation. A more realistic model consisting of a mass between two preloaded non-linear (cubic elasticity springs) and restrained by a Coulomb and viscous damper is proposed. A harmonic motion solution, satisfying “on the average” the non-linear differential equation of motion of the model is developed whereby equations for frequency response curves are obtained. Expressions for relative and absolute transmissibility as well as their values at resonance are developed, these are shown to properly reduce to the respective exact expressions of a Kelvin model and friction damped linear spring. Although the model is intended mainly for quantitative design in packaging engineering problems, it is suitable for studying general vibration isolation problems as well.
The effects of dried O2 on the surface conductance of silicon

In order to evaluate the effects of dried oxygen on the electrical transport properties of the silicon surface, ac field effect measurements on a CP-4 etched surface have been made. The equilibrium surface potential of a sample stored in room air undergoes a 12 mv p-type shift upon exposure to dried O2. The field effect mobility changes from 0.11 (n-type) to 0.19 (p-type) cm2/volt sec. After the sample is exposed to dried O2, the applied electric field produces a total variation of the charge trapped in the surface states of 22mμ coul/cm2 with a corresponding variation in surface potential of 0.75 (e φ/k T units). Um den Einflus von getrocknetem Sauerstoff auf die elektrischen Transporteigenschaften der Siliziumoberflache zu untersuchen, wurden Wechselstrom-Feldeffektmessungen an einer mit CP-4 geatzten Oberflache ausgefuhrt. Das Gleichgewichts-Oberflachenpotential einer in Zimmerluft aufbewahrten Probe wird unter Einwirkung von getrocknetem O2 um 12 mV in p-Richtung verschoben. Die Feldeffekt-Beweglichkeit andert sich von 0,11 (n-Typ) bis 0,19 (p-Typ) cm2/V sec. Nachdem die Probe getrocknetem Sauerstoff ausgesetzt wurde, erzeugt das elektrische Feld eine Gesamtanderung der in den Oberflachenzustanden angehafteten Ladung von 22 mμ Coul/cm2, wobei sich das Oberflachenpotential um 0,75 kT/e andert.
Diels–Alder Reactions of Graphene: Computational Predictions of Products and Sites of Reaction

The cycloaddition reactions and noncovalent π interactions of 2,3-dimethoxybutadiene (DMBD), 9-methylanthracene (MeA), tetracyanoethylene (TCNE), and maleic anhydride (MA) with graphene models have been investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Reaction enthalpies have been obtained to assess the reactivity and selectivity of covalent and noncovalent functionalization. Results indicate that graphene edges may be functionalized by the four reagents through cycloaddition reactions, while the interior regions cannot react. Noncovalent complexation is much more favorable than cycloaddition reactions on interior bonds of graphene. The relative reactivities of different sites in graphene are related to loss of aromaticity and can be predicted using Huckel molecular orbital (HMO) localization energy calculations.
Staying in the Moment and Finding Purpose: The Associations of Trait Mindfulness, Decentering, and Purpose in Life with Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety Symptoms, and Alcohol-Related Problems

The present study examined the associations between trait mindfulness and depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms (i.e., worry), and alcohol-related problems via decentering and purpose in life. Using structural equation modeling in a large sample of college students (N = 1,277), we found support for decentering and purpose in life as partial mediators of the associations between trait mindfulness and these outcomes. Although our findings should be viewed as preliminary given the cross-sectional study design and study population, our results are consistent with the notion that decentering and purpose in life may be mechanisms explaining the health beneficial effects of mindfulness. Future research studies with extensive assessments of potential mechanisms using experimental and longitudinal designs are needed to bolster confidence that decentering and purpose in life are important mechanisms explaining the health-promoting effects of mindfulness.
Energy, Life, and ATP (Nobel Lecture).

The puzzling results of 18 O-exchange experiments churned in Paul Boyer's mind, and he realized that the proton-motive force generated upon oxidative phosphorylation is not used primarily for the synthesis of an ATP molecule, but instead its release. The concept of the binding change mechanism was born. For the formation of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate-one of the most important reactions in nature-catalysis by ATP synthase requires sequential conformational changes and a rotary mechanism that drives these changes; this enzyme is truly a remarkable molecular machine.
Routine abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography in multiple trauma patients: relevance to therapy in 105 patients

Purpose: To examine treatment decisions in multiple trauma patients and determine how often these decisions are based on abdominal ultrasonography (US) findings, and how frequently these decisions are altered by subsequent computed tomographic (CT) imaging. Methods: From August 1996 to July 1997 we prospectively performed abdominal US followed by abdominal CT in all hemodynamically stable multiple trauma victims who did not need immediate surgery. We recorded the results from both modalities, as well as the treatment decisions based on these results. We also noted how frequently therapy based on US results was altered by the subsequent CT findings. Results: Treatment decisions were influenced by either US or CT in 27 of 105 patients (25.7 %). US was interpreted as normal in 76 patients (72.4 %), including 5 (6.6 %) who were subsequently found to have therapeutically significant findings on CT. US was interpreted as abnormal in 29 (27.6 %) patients, 12 of whom (41.4 %) had their management altered by subsequent CT results. Conclusions: Abdominal CT findings prompt changes in therapy in only a small number of stable multiple trauma patients who exhibit normal abdominal US. On the other hand, CT may have an impact on acute therapy in a large number of patients who exhibit abnormal US. Our results demonstrate that a diagnostic approach in hemodynamically stable patients is possible with US serving as a decision maker to determine whether further CT imaging is needed.
ABO Blood Groups and Sex-Ratio at Birth in Man

SEX-RATIO at birth in man and some other organisms has been a subject of investigation for several decades. No clear evidence has been available indicating its association with any known hereditary trait. The purpose of this note is to point out such an association of sex-ratio with ABO blood groups in man. The data consist of ABO determinations of 1,330 mothers and cord blood of their newborn infants, delivered during the second half of 1944, at the Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital in Bombay. The original purpose of that investigation was to study the frequency of subgroups of A in the sample of mothers1 and the incidence of haemolytic anaemias in their newborn infants2,3. Recently there was occasion to re-examine the data for ABO determinations and sex-ratio in infants. Results of this analysis are given in Table 1.
Metal hydride fires and fire suppression agents

Most metal hydrides are pyrophoric and water-reactive. Summaries of metal hydride fire incidents are presented to illustrate ignition scenarios, threats to personnel and equipment, and fire suppression experiences. Met-L-X™, a sodium chloride-based, certified, Class D fire suppression agent, has successfully extinguished some metal hydride fires by coating the hydride and excluding air access. However, the still hot hydride is prone to re-ignition upon surface disturbance, such as may be necessary during disposal. Previously reported testing of various Class D agents and moist sand for sodium hydride fires is reviewed here along with certification and ad hoc testing of existing Class D agents and recent testing of a new candidate Class D agent. Hydride explosibility testing is also briefly summarized. Additional fire and explosibility tests, as well as suppression agent reactivity evaluations, are recommended.
Propranolol inhibition of the neutral phospholipases A of rat heart mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum and cytosol.

Abstract Membrane damage caused by phospholipase A action is thought to be an important factor in ischemic myocardial injury. Propranolol has been shown previously to have beneficial effects in both animal experiments and clinical trials, and it has membrane-stabilizing properties in vitro . To investigate the possibility that these effects might be due, in part, to effects on phospholipases, we determined the effects of propranolol on rat heart phospholipases A at physiological pH using small unilamellar liposomes of di[1- 14 C]oleoylphosphatidylcholine as substrate. Propranolol inhibited heart phospholipases A in vitro .The concentration required to give 50% inhibition was 0.2 mM for the mitochondrial and cytosolic phospholipases A and 2.9 mM for sarcoplasmic reticulum phospholipase A. The binding of [4- 3 H]propranolol to fresh membrane preparations was studied using an ultracentrifugation method. Propranolol bound readily to both membrane fractions in vitro with no significant difference in the saturation number (0.20 to 0.28 mol drug per mol phospholipid) but the association constant, K A , was higher for mitochondrial membranes (3760 ± 350) than for the sarcoplasmic reticulum (2190 ± 390). Our results show that propranolol inhibited heart phospholipases A in vitro at physiological pH. The mitochondrial and cytosolic phospholipases A were more susceptible to inhibition than the phospholipase A of sarcoplasmic reticulum. Propranolol bound to mitochondria and sarcoplasmic reticulum in vitro , suggesting the possibility that propranolol binding to heart membranes in vivo could result in drug concentrations in these membranes high enough to inhibit phospholipase A. This could represent an additional mechanism by which propranolol exerts beneficial effects in myocardial ischemia
Evidence for a role of proteins, lipids, and phytochemicals in the prevention of polycystic kidney disease progression and severity

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a heritable disease characterized by renal cysts and is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Dietary intervention offers a potentially efficacious, cost-effective, and safe therapeutic option for PKD. The aim of this article was to review studies investigating the effect of dietary components on PKD and potential mechanisms of action. Low-protein diets are commonly recommended for PKD patients, but inconsistent findings in human and animal PKD studies suggest that the type rather the amount of protein may be of greater importance. Dietary soy protein has been shown to have renal protective effects in various animal models of PKD. Other than dietary proteins, studies investigating the role of the amount and type of dietary lipids on PKD progression are increasing. The omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can alter multiple steps in PKD pathogenesis. Phytoestrogens and phytochemicals are other dietary compounds shown to attenuate cyst pathogenesis in animal studies. A better understanding of the role of nutrition in PKD can contribute to the development of dietary recommendations and diet-based therapies to reduce PKD progression and severity.
Evaluation of substrates for 90° peel adhesion—A collaborative study. II. Transdermal drug delivery systems†

In a previous study on peel adhesion for medical tapes, it was shown that a stainless steel (SS) substrate better discriminated among medical tapes than a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) substrate. The objective of this study was to determine if a SS substrate would also better distinguish among transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDSs). Five TDDSs (Vivelle Dot, Climara, Catapres-TTS, Duragesic, and Mylan Fentanyl) were evaluated on three different substrates (SS, HDPE, and human cadaver skin). All measurements were made using a dwell time of approximately 3 min, a peel angle of 90 degrees, and a peel speed of 300 mm/min. Differences among TDDSs were greater for SS than for HDPE, using the F statistic for testing for differences among TDDSs means as a measure of heterogeneity, thereby indicating greater discrimination by SS.
Occupational radiation exposure of women workers.

Abstract The protection of women exposed to ionizing radiation in the workplace has been intensively examined in recent years but no data concerning women workers themselves have been used. The emphasis has been on the possible exposure of the embryo/fetus, with no concern directed to the potential radiation induction of breast and thyroid cancer in the woman nor to the effect on the woman of adverse pregnancy outcome, which can also result from irradiation of the male germ cells. The recent risk estimates developed by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation from observations of biological effects on populations with nonoccupational exposure to ionizing radiation are presented. Surveys of average annual doses for occupationally exposed populations in hospitals show marked variation in radiation exposure from one country to another and for different medical specialties. Radiation exposure in brachytherapy and nuclear technology has been considerably higher than for X-ray technology. The improvements in radiation protection are a continuous process. The employment of both men and women in hospital and industrial settings where there is radiation exposure will have to be evaluated more realistically in terms of the risk to the workers themselves and their reproductive integrity.
Can fungal biomarkers be used to improve antifungal therapy in the intensive care unit

Invasive fungal infections have an increasing incidence worldwide, and patients in intensive care settings are particularly vulnerable to them. Candidemia is the third most common bloodstream pathogen in intensive care units (ICUs) in the United States, and a number of reports have recently been published regarding the increasing incidence of invasive aspergillosis in ICUs throughout the world. Because research has shown that early antifungal therapy is associated with better outcomes, clinicians are starting to explore new diagnostic fungal markers, which are more sensitive and faster than the traditional diagnostic standards of culture and histopathology.
Insights into the interior-point methods

In this paper, we study the search directions of three important interior-point algorithms, namely, the primal-affine scaling method (with logarithmic barrier function), the dual-affine scaling method (with logarithmic barrier function), and the primal-dual interior point method. From an algebraic point of view, we show that the search directions of these three algorithms are merely Newton directions along three different “paths” that lead to a solution of the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker conditions of a given linear programming problem. From a geometric point of view, we show that these directions can be obtained by solving certain well-defined subproblems. Both views provide a general platform for studying the existing interior-point methods and deriving new interior-point algorithms. We illustrate the derivation of new interior-point algorithms by replacing the logarithmic barrier function with an entropic barrier function. The results have been generalized and discussed.
Repairing a bad reputation: it takes more than good works

One of the greatest challenges we can face is repairing a bad organizational reputation (deserved or not). Our experience makes it clear that it's not enough to do things the right way. Whether we know it or not, and whether we like it or not, customer service is not about technology; that's an unwelcome surprise for those of us who came up through the technological ranks. We consider some of the factors that can cause a bad reputation, and discuss techniques we've used to address the problem and how well they've worked for us.
Intraperitoneal therapy as consolidation for patients with ovarian cancer and negative reassessment after platinum-based chemotherapy

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IP) for the treatment of ovarian cancer has been studied in clinical trials and has shown clinical benefit when used as primary adjuvant therapy. IP chemotherapy also may play a role as consolidation after intravenous treatment. In 1998, a pilot study seas initiated using IP cisplatin (or carboplatin) combined with floxuridine (FUDR). Patients received a mean of 3.2 cycles of FUDR, which was accompanied by cisplatin or carboplatin in 88% of cycles. The median follow-up time was 20 months (range 6.0 to 57.6 months). Eight patients have had disease recurrence, with median time to recurrence 19.4 months from onset of protocol treatment. Only one patient has died of disease at 38.8 months from onset of protocol. Extra-abdominal recurrences (lung, brain, inguinal nodes) tended to occur earlier than peritoneal recurrences. Demonstration of an impact on progression-free survival and overall survival requires confirmation in a phase III trial.
A Lagrangian particle/panel method for the barotropic vorticity equations on a rotating sphere

We present a Lagrangian particle/panel method for geophysical fluid flow described by the barotropic vorticity equations on a rotating sphere. The particles carry vorticity and the panels are used in discretizing the Biot–Savart integral for the velocity. Adaptive panel refinement and a new Lagrangian remeshing scheme are applied to reduce the computational cost and maintain accuracy as the flow evolves. Computed examples include a Rossby–Haurwitz wave, a Gaussian vortex, and a perturbed zonal jet. To validate the method, a comparison is made with results obtained using the Lin–Rood finite–volume scheme.
Time domain modeling of induced birefringence and phase shift in piezoelectric resonance enhanced electro-optic modulators

In our continuing effort of developing electromagnetic-electromechanical-electrooptic interactive devices, the effect of piezoelectric resonance on the performance of electrooptic modulators is investigated. Time domain finite element models were constructed to determine the phase shift due to the induced birefringence of the device. Two sinusoidal voltage sources are used one to sweep over a range of frequencies while the other setting the modulator at a selected resonance frequency. Ferroelectric single crystals such as LiNbO 3 and Pb(Zn 1/3 Nb 2/3 )O 3 -PbTiO 3 , were examined for their induced index of refraction, the induced phase shift, and the half-wave voltage of given configurations. The time domain model of dual signal ac biased configuration displayed wide bandwidth enhancement when biased at proper resonant modes, which matches well with experimental observations. The results demonstrate the piezoresonant enhancement in terms of low half wave voltage and high electrooptic coefficients in broad frequency ranges. The results also provided corresponding insights that further our understanding on experimental observations reported previously by the authors. The models are suitable for designing of electrooptic device configurations that optimize the properties desired.
Localization of Genes in Rye that Restore Male Fertility to Hexaploid Wheat with timopheevi Cytoplasm

Four sets of wheat-rye addition lines were screened to localize genes in rye that restore male fertility to hexaploid wheat with timopheevi cytoplasm. One gene, designated Rfc3, was physically located in the distal 40 % of the long arm of chromosome 6R. No allelic variation at Rfc3 was found; normal male fertility was consistently observed in all F1 hybrid combinations tested. A second gene, designated Rfc4, was located on the long arm of chromosome 4R. Variation between chromosomes 4R in the level of restoration was observed; fertility in hybrids ranged from 0 % to about 50 % of normal. Attempts to genetically map Rfc4 were inconclusive but suggested it was located 16.1 cM from the telomere of the long arm and at least 8.0 cM from the centromere. These restorers, particularly Rfc3, may have potential in hybrid wheat breeding programs and can be manipulated for production of male sterile triticale lines.
Catalysis of formic acid decomposition by surface-doped germanium

Abstract The decomposition of formic acid in the presence of a germanium catalyst was studied. Germanium samples having carrier levels which varied by at least two orders of magnitude were prepared by bulk doping. The formic acid decomposition was not affected by the variation in carrier concentration. Germanium having doped surface layers was also prepared. Catalytic effects could be correlated with the doping. Activity was found to vary with the amount of surface doping.
Leading change: insights from Jungian interpretations of The Book of Job

This paper explores insights from the psychology of C.G. Jung as it relates to leadership and the management of change in organizations. It draws especially upon Jung’s archetypal interpretation of the biblical story of Job, and the relevance of this story to the modern day study of organizational life. It suggests that the transformations of consciousness represented within the story of Job are highly relevant to the ways that organizations and their leaders face chaotic, turbulent, and/or unpredictable circumstances. In particular, it describes the role of the feminine and the shadow within such situations, as forces that allow a new order to unfold during periods of intense change.
Modeling the Hydrodynamic and Morphologic Response of an Estuary Restoration

Estuary evolution is investigated using the hydrodynamic and sediment transport model, Delft3D, to study the response of a dammed tidal basin to restored tidal processes. The development of decadal (10-year) morphological simulations of the restored estuary required simplifying several data inputs and implementing a time-scale acceleration technique. An innovative river sediment discharge schematization was developed that connected sediment discharge to morphological change in the estuary. Mud erodibility parameters were determined from laboratory analysis of sediment cores from the modern lakebed and statistical refinement with a Bayes network of the probability of occurrence. The changing estuary morphology appears to have a dominant impact on the physical habitat (substrate, inundation frequency, mean salinity, and salinity range). The numerical model provides a tool to compare the functions of the historical estuary and possible future alternatives for a restored estuary. Sensitivity of the morphological model to sediment types and erodibility parameters was also examined. A conceptual model covering morphology and indicators of physical habitat for three phases of estuary evolution during restoration is presented that could be applied to estuarine systems that are severely out of equilibrium.
Does referral bias impact findings in high-risk offspring for anxiety disorders? A controlled study of high-risk children of non-referred parents with panic disorder/agoraphobia and major depression.

Abstract Background : Previous findings in referred samples documented significant diagnostic specificity in patterns of transmission between parents with panic disorder (PD) and parents with major depression (MD) and their offspring. This study evaluated whether these patterns of transmission between parents and high-risk offspring are moderated by referral bias. Methods : Parental PD/agoraphobia (AG) and parental MD were used to predict rates of offspring psychiatric disorders and functional outcomes using data from an opportunistic sample of parents ( n =991) and offspring ( n =734) ascertained from case–control family genetic studies of youth with and without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Subjects were comprehensively assessed with structured diagnostic interview methodology to evaluate psychiatric disorders in parents and offspring. Results : Parental PD/AG increased the risk for anxiety disorders in offspring, independently of parental MD while parental MD increased the risk for mood and disruptive behavior disorders in offspring, independently of parental PD/AG. Parental psychopathology was also associated with functional impairment in offspring. Limitations : The use of a sample ascertained by ADHD and control probands, and parent psychiatric diagnostic reports for children under 12. Conclusions : These results extend to non-referred samples previous findings from referred samples documenting diagnostic specificity in the familial transmission of PD/AG and MD from parents to offspring, suggesting that these patterns of transmission are not due to referral bias. These results could inform and enhance community programs aimed at screening for and treating pediatric psychopathology.
Relational database: a radiation therapy machine control software development tool

A relational database is being used to develop control software for a neutron radiation therapy system including a cyclotron and an isocentric treatment gantry. The control system entails over 1000 input and output signals. Signal descriptions and internal control system parameters are stored in a relational database. Database queries can generate design documents, answer ad-hoc inquiries about signals, and create machine-readable tables used by control-system computer programs. Engineering staff can reconfigure the control system by updating the database without modifying the control system executable software. >
Cultural bias in Wikipedia content on famous persons

Wikipedia advocates a strict “neutral point of view” (NPOV) policy. However, although originally a U.S-based, English-language phenomenon, the online, user-created encyclopedia now has versions in many languages. This study examines the extent to which content and perspectives vary across cultures by comparing articles about famous persons in the Polish and English editions of Wikipedia. The results of quantitative and qualitative content analyses reveal systematic differences related to the different cultures, histories, and values of Poland and the United States; at the same time, a U.S./English-language advantage is evident throughout. In conclusion, the implications of these findings for the quality and objectivity of Wikipedia as a global repository of knowledge are discussed, and recommendations are advanced for Wikipedia end users and content developers. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
REVERSAL OF FORTUNE: The Resurgence of Individual Risk Assessment in Criminal Justice

▪ Abstract During the 1970s, the enterprise of individual risk assessment in the criminal justice system came under sharp attack from a number of angles, including legal, political, and empirical. A particularly acute site of this controversy was the use of psychological expertise to make individual risk assessments of persons with mental illness who found themselves within the criminal justice system. Successful court challenges to the procedures under which such persons were held in custody as dangerous were followed by empirical research on those persons released. The result was something of a paradigm crisis in the use of individual risk assessment in criminal justice and growing calls for its abandonment. By the 1990s, however, risk assessment was becoming more important than ever to the criminal justice system. This resurgence reflected the political demand for strategies to prevent violent crime and led to significant investments in research and policy development. In the new paradigm of risk asses...
GLUTAMATE ABNORMALITIES IN OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER: NEUROBIOLOGY, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, AND TREATMENT

Obsessive compulsive disorder is prevalent, disabling, incompletely understood, and often resistant to current therapies. Established treatments consist of specialized cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy with medications targeting serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. However, remission is rare, and more than a quarter of OCD sufferers receive little or no benefit from these approaches, even when they are optimally delivered. New insights into the disorder, and new treatment strategies, are urgently needed. Recent evidence suggests that the ubiquitous excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate is dysregulated in OCD, and that this dysregulation may contribute to the pathophysiology of the disorder. Here we review the current state of this evidence, including neuroimaging studies, genetics, neurochemical investigations, and insights from animal models. Finally, we review recent findings from small clinical trials of glutamate-modulating medications in treatment-refractory OCD. The precise role of glutamate dysregulation in OCD remains unclear, and we lack blinded, well-controlled studies demonstrating therapeutic benefit from glutamate-modulating agents. Nevertheless, the evidence supporting some important perturbation of glutamate in the disorder is increasingly strong. This new perspective on the pathophysiology of OCD, which complements the older focus on monoaminergic neurotransmission, constitutes an important focus of current research and a promising area for the ongoing development of new therapeutics.
P-glycoproteins of Haemonchus contortus : development of real-time PCR assays for gene expression studies

P-glycoproteins (P-gps) are proteins that function as efflux pumps, removing lipophilic xenobiotic compounds from cells. There is evidence that P-gps play a role in the resistance of parasitic nematodes to anthelmintic drugs such as benzimidazoles and macrocyclic lactones. As anthelmintic resistance becomes more common, it is important to identify candidate resistance genes with the aim of understanding the molecular basis of resistance, and of developing assays to detect these resistance-associated changes. We identified several sequences from the genome of the parasite Haemonchus contortus with convincing homology to the known P-gp coding genes of the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Nine of these sequences were successfully amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and shown to be most similar to the C. elegans sequences for pgp-1, pgp-2, pgp-3, pgp-4, pgp-9, pgp-10, pgp-11, pgp-12 and pgp-14. These partial P-gp sequences from H. contortus were used to design and optimize a quantitative real-time PCR assay to investigate potential changes in the expression levels of P-gp transcripts associated with drug resistance. No significant changes in P-gp mRNA expression levels were found in a rapidly selected ivermectin-resistant parasite isolate compared to its drug-sensitive parent, but the assay has the potential to be used on other isolates in the future to further investigate resistance-associated changes in P-gp gene expression.
Internal-External Control and beliefs about automobile travel

Abstract It was hypothesized that the Internal-External Locus of Control dimension ( Rotter, 1966 ) would predict reported feelings about automobile travel and attribution of responsibility for automobile accidents. Relative to Externals, Internals were found (a) to attribute responsibility for automobile accidents more to internal, controllable causes; (b) to report less anxiety when travelling via automobile; (c) to report wearing seatbelts more often; and (d) to experience automobile travel as more interesting and involving.
Temperature Field Regulation in Thermal Cutting for Layered Manufacturing

A general thermal modeling and control methodology for thermal processing of layered materials for rapid prototyping technologies is established in this article. An analytical multivariable model of lumped temperature outputs generated by heat inputs on a surface grid is developed, based on Green’s function and state-space descriptions. The few independent parameters needed in such a linearized formulation are experimentally identified, and their time-variability reflects the heat transfer nonlinearities and process disturbances. A robust controller with thermal feedback is designed by pole placement methods, to obtain a specified dynamic temperature field yielding the desired material structure and properties. The regulated thermal processing is optimized in real time by proper heat source power modulation and torch guidance through a simulated annealing strategy. Its performance is tested on both the computer model and a laboratory station, using robotically guided plasma-arc cutting and infrared thermal sensing, in regulating the sensitized zone during blanking of an elementary contour pattern on stainless steel.
Community-Centered Education Improves Vaccination Rates in Children From Low-Income Households

OBJECTIVE: We partnered with the Salvation Army to educate resource-poor families regarding childhood immunizations in an effort to improve vaccine coverage rates. METHODS: Eligibility for enrollment included children of families presenting at registration for our Salvation Army holiday gift program, available to families with an annual income <150% of federal poverty guidelines. Parents completed a questionnaire, were provided each child’s vaccination status as documented in the New York State Immunization Information System, and interacted with the study team to address immunization-related concerns. Missed vaccines were identified and parents were directed to their child’s medical home for necessary immunizations. Vaccine coverage was ascertained via the New York State Immunization Information System every 6 to 8 weeks with telephone follow-up for children who remained delayed. The McNemar test and standard 2-proportion comparison were used to determine confidence intervals when analyzing matched or independent data, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 1531 children were enrolled; 416 (28%) of the 1477 children with accurate immunization records were vaccine complete. When we excluded influenza vaccine, 1034 (70%) of children had received all other recommended vaccines. Nine months later, vaccine completion rates increased from 28% to 45%, largely because of improvements in influenza vaccination rates, which increased by 17% (confidence interval [CI] 15.5–19.5), a significant improvement over county (8%, 95% CI 7.4–8.1) and statewide (5%, 95% CI 4.7–4.8) rates during the same period. CONCLUSIONS: Immunization rates in poor children are suboptimal. Partnering with community-based organizations to address parental concerns, provide education, and perform follow-up was effective in improving immunization rates, particularly for influenza vaccine. * Abbreviations: CBO — : community-based organization CI — : confidence interval HPV — : human papillomavirus NYS — : New York State NYSIIS — : New York State Immunization Information System PCV-13 — : conjugate pneumococcal-13 vaccine TIV — : trivalent influenza vaccine
Two-dimensional current flow in the MOSFET source&#8212;Drain

Series resistance within the metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor erodes some of the performance improvement inherent to channel length reduction. The subject of series resistance, then, assumes greater importance as transistor dimensions shrink. Since current crowding effects at the source-drain ohmic contact and at the junction of the source-drain and the channel increase the apparent series resistance, we have studied current flow and its associated nonuniformity by two analytical solutions of Laplace's equation with appropriate boundary conditions. We show typical results of these solutions, discuss the effect of device scaling on the current flow, and present simulation data for the self-aligned silicide field-effect transistor. The implicit assumption that the ohmic contact and source-channel current crowding contribute independently to the apparent source resistance fails for these self-aligned silicide devices.
Fundamental studies of the cluster ion bombardment of water ice

Abstract The fundamental sputtering properties of water ice are of interest for molecular depth profiling of biological samples in their native environment. We report on a method of studying amorphous water ice films of precise thicknesses in which pure water vapor is condensed onto a pre-cooled, silver-coated quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). This scheme allows for the determination of water ice sputter yields for any primary projectile as well as providing a means for studying escape depths of atoms and molecules beneath the deposited water ice layer. Specifically, we find a removal of approximately 2500 water molecule equivalents/20 keV C60+ projectile with an underlying silver ion escape depth of 7.0 A.
"Without Any of the Seductions of Art": On Orozco's Misogyny and Public Art in the Americas

Este ensayo examina la supuesta misoginia que se le atribuye a Jose Clemente Orozco en sus representaciones de mujeres al situar este tema en una de sus obras mas insignes — la prostituta sonriente en el mural Catarsis, de 1934 — dentro de un contexto discursivo en el plano estetico y politico del modernismo internacional, de la modernidad industrial y del desarrollo urbano. Al situar la produccion de este mural dentro de un momento especifico en el Mexico posrevolucionario, y tomando en cuenta el significado politico de su entorno, este ensayo propone que seria mas acertado comprender la imagen de Orozco como una critica en contra de la alegoria academica en general, y de forma mas puntual, como una protesta ante la renovacion de la retorica civil porfiriana, que se distingue por medio de la edificacion del Palacio de Bellas Artes. Al cuestionar asi la iconografia de genero en la obra de Orozco, propongo que somos capaces de entender mejor la forma en que la alegoria femenina, el arte publico, y el estado de la nacion, estaban inmersos dentro de la articulacion del Mexico posrevolucionario. Por lo tanto es posible apreciar, tanto las visiones como las limitaciones de la iconografia de genero que hay en las obras de Orozco.
A Scalable and Elastic Publish/Subscribe Service

The rapid growth of sense-and-respond applications and the emerging cloud computing model present a new challenge: providing publish/subscribe as a scalable and elastic cloud service. This paper presents the Blue Dove attribute based publish/subscribe service that seeks to address such a challenge. Blue Dove uses a gossip-based one-hop overlay to organize servers into a scalable cluster. It proactively exploits skew ness in data distribution to achieve high performance. By assigning each subscription to multiple servers through a multidimensional subscription space partitioning technique, it provides multiple candidate servers for each publication message. A message can be matched on any of its candidate servers with one hop forwarding. The performance-aware forwarding in Blue Dove ensures that the message is sent to the least loaded candidate server for processing, leading to low latency and high throughput. The evaluation shows that Blue Dove has a linear capacity increase as the system scales up, adapts to sudden workload changes within tens of seconds, and achieves multifold higher throughput than the techniques used in the existing enterprise and peer-to-peer pub/sub systems.
“Goody Blake and Harry Gill,” “the thorn,” and the failure of philanthropy

(1998). “Goody Blake and Harry Gill,” “the thorn,” and the failure of philanthropy. European Romantic Review: Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 103-123.
Anticipatory Repudiation of Letters of Credit

Letters of credit play a vital role in financing international transactions, and are becoming increasingly popular domestically as substitutes for more traditional secured financing. As such, they deserve substantially more scholarly attention than they receive outside of specialized treatises and banking trade publications. Moreover, as unilateral promises by issuers of the letters of credit to pay money to their beneficiaries, the fact that Article 5 of the Uniform Commercial Code and pre-UCC common law recognize the right of a beneficiary to sue for anticipatory repudiation is at odds with the prevailing rule in this country that a promisee cannot sue her promisor before payment is due for anticipatorily repudiating a unilateral promise to pay money. After reviewing key aspects of letter of credit law and of the doctrine of anticipatory repudiation, this article explores in depth the elements a letter of credit's beneficiary must satisfy in order to establish a claim against its issuer and the options available to a beneficiary under both the 1962 and 1995 versions of Article 5. It also challenges the positions taken, as well as key issues ignored, by some courts and some prominent commentators. It concludes by discussing the apparent disconnect between the stated intent on the drafters of the 1995 version of Article 5 to "expand" the remedies available to beneficiaries against issuers and the relegation of several remedies explicitly provided by the 1962 version of Article 5 to the realm of the implicit (and perhaps the nonexistent).
The Influence of Eddies on Tracer Transport in the Abyssal Ocean

Abstract Tracer transport mechanisms in a deep western boundary current (DWBC) are explored using a three-layer, eddy-resolving quasigeostrophic model. The model is forced with a steady, sinusoidal wind stress. The effects of the wind stress, coupled with instabilities, create an unsteady, zonal surface jet at the boundary between the model subtropical and subpolar gyres. The bottom layer includes a DWBC created by specifying a mass inflow at the northern boundary and a mass outflow at the southern boundary. A numerical tracer is introduced into the DWBC with the mass source at the northern boundary. The surface jet creates an effective boundary to tracer transport in the DWBC. This barrier to meridional tracer transport causes approximately 70% of the tracer moved out of the northern part of the DWBC to be transported zonally into the interior with only 30% continuing southward in the DWBC. In model runs with a flat bottom, approximately 20% of the total meridional tracer flux is due to the eddy field. W...
Antifederalists and the Push for a Bill of Rights

This brief Article examines the role of the Antifederalists in pushing for a Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution. The Article discusses why the Antifederalists thought a Bill was necessary to limit the power of the federal government. The Article also discusses the arguments asserted by the Federalists in opposition to a Bill of Rights.
Note from Guest Editors

Creativity. We all recognize it when we see it, but we have difficulty defining it, studying it, and understanding the best way to teach it. The growth of the Internet and the new forms of advertis...
Modulation of subtropical stratospheric gravity waves by equatorial rainfall

Author(s): Cohen, NY; Boos, WR | Abstract: Internal gravity waves influence a variety of phenomena in Earth's stratosphere and upper troposphere, including aviation weather turbulence and circulations that set high-altitude distributions of ozone and greenhouse gases. Here coupling between the dominant mode of subseasonal variability of the equatorial atmosphere - the Madden-Julian oscillation (MJO) - and subtropical stratospheric gravity waves created by flow over topography is documented for the first time. We use three different meteorological data sets to show that during boreal winter, the MJO modifies the vertical distribution of internal gravity wave drag induced by the Tibetan Plateau and the deposition of momentum into the stratosphere. This interaction, however, has no significant impact on the vertically integrated wave drag. Our findings raise new questions about how future changes in tropical rainfall might affect stratospheric variability and highlight the importance of local processes over Tibet for the circulations that set distributions of climatically important high-altitude trace gases.