cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A game-theoretic analysis of international trade and political conflict over external territories

For analyzing conflict between two large open countries over external territories rich in natural resources, we develop a game-theoretic model of trade under resource appropriation possibilities. We show that greater trade openness (by lowering trade costs) reduces the overall intensity of arming when the adversary countries are symmetric in all dimensions. This finding is consistent with the liberal peace hypothesis that trade reduces conflict. We further analyze how equilibrium is affected by differences in national resource endowments. The resulting asymmetric equilibrium reveals that arming by the more endowed country exceeds that of the less endowed country and the two adversaries respond to lower trade costs differently: the more endowed country cuts back on its arming, whereas the less endowed country may increase it. Under resource endowment asymmetry, the aggregate arming allocations of the adversaries could increase despite greater trade openness.
Phosphatase Activities and Their Effects on Phosphorus Availability in Soils Amended with Livestock Manures

The application of livestock manures can impact factors related to phosphorus (P) cycling and concentrations of plant-available P in soils. Specific manure physicochemical properties differ due to livestock species and management practices, which may result in differences in parameters related to soil fertility when manures are applied to soil. To date, no evaluation has been conducted on the differences among manure types on soil phosphatase activities and P availability. This chapter presents information on the most commonly studied soil phosphatases, acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterase and phosphodiesterase, and how manure application influences their activities and P cycling. In a case study, it is shown that soil application of manures from organically managed dairies increases acid phosphatase activity; however, concentrations of available P in soils that receive manure from organic dairies are similar to those that receive manure from conventional dairies. Depending upon specific research goals, different in vitro experimental approaches may be used prior to evaluation of phosphatase activity, but specific methodology influences phosphatase activities and can hinder among-study evaluation of effects of livestock manure on P dynamics. Research avenues are suggested to improve current understanding of the effects of livestock manure on soil quality and functioning related to P availability in soils.
3 – Power Transformers

This chapter presents an overview of the characteristics of a transformer. The basic theory and principles of application are introduced. A transformer is a static device used for transforming electric energy from one circuit to another magnetically (e.g., by induction rather than conduction). Normally, this transformation is accomplished between circuits of different voltages of the same frequency. Power transformers have a magnetic core surrounded by two or more windings. These windings are insulated from each other and from the ground. The windings are connected together in a manner to achieve the desired voltage transformation ratio. In addition, a simple lumped-parameter equivalent circuit is presented. Magnetizing current and leakage reactance are introduced, and cooling methods are presented and compared. Furthermore, transformer applications are discussed. This chapter also focuses on the basic core and winding arrangements. The successful design of a commercial transformer requires the selection of a simple structure so that the core and coils are easy to manufacture. At the same time, the structure should be as compact as possible to reduce materials, shipping concerns, and footprints. The form should also allow convenient removal of heat, sufficient mechanical strength to withstand forces generated during system faults, acceptable noise characteristics, and an electrical insulation system that meets both the system steady-state and transient requirements.
Using Dominating Sets with 2-Hop Neighborhood Information to Improve the Ad-Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector Routing*

Mobile Ad-Hoc network is a wireless network whose nodes in the network must coordinate among them to determine connectivity and routing. Many improvements were done to Ad-Hoc on-demand distance vector routing by using dominating sets to decrease the network load and flooding. But further with the increase of nodes at higher terrain dimensions the performance of Ad-Hoc on-demand distance vector routing decreases. To overcome this problem, we apply dominating sets with two-hop neighborhood information to Ad-Hoc on-demand distance vector routing protocol using GloMoSim-2.03 simulator, where route to the destination can be identified using the two-hop information at the dominating nodes where the packet to destination is present. Our results show the performance of dominating sets with two-hop neighborhood information which have improved the broadcast latency, packet delivery, and load on network.
Correlative Detection of Isolated Single and Multi-Cellular Calcifications in the Internal Elastic Lamina of Human Coronary Artery Samples

Histopathology protocols often require sectioning and processing of numerous microscopy slides to survey a sample. Trade-offs between workload and sampling density means that small features can be missed. Aiming to reduce the workload of routine histology protocols and the concern over missed pathology in skipped sections, we developed a prototype x-ray tomographic scanner dedicated to rapid scouting and identification of regions of interest in pathology specimens, thereby allowing targeted histopathology analysis to replace blanket searches. In coronary artery samples of a deceased HIV patient, the scanner, called Tomopath, obtained depth-resolved cross-sectional images at 15 µm resolution in a 15-minute scan, which guided the subsequent histological sectioning and microscopy. When compared to a commercial tabletop micro-CT scanner, the prototype provided several-fold contrast-to-noise ratio in 1/11th the scan time. Correlated tomographic and histological images revealed two types of micro calcifications: scattered loose calcifications typically found in atherosclerotic lesions; isolated focal calcifications in one or several cells in the internal elastic lamina and occasionally in the tunica media, which we speculate were the initiation of medial calcification linked to kidney disease, but rarely detected at this early stage due to their similarity to particle contaminants introduced during histological processing, if not for the evidence from the tomography scan prior to sectioning. Thus, in addition to its utility as a scouting tool, in this study it provided complementary information to histological microscopy. Overall, the prototype scanner represents a step toward a dedicated scouting and complementary imaging tool for routine use in pathology labs.
Field evaluation of insecticides and application timing on natural enemies of selected armored and soft scales

Abstract Scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) are among the most problematic pests of woody plants in protected culture and urban landscapes. When outbreaks of scale insects occur, insecticides are often applied to reduce host damage. To select reduced risk insecticides that can complement the mortality contributed by natural enemies, the selectivity and residual toxicity of each insecticide must be considered within the context of the seasonal biology of both the pest and its natural enemies. We studied how timing of applying reduced risk insecticides affected the natural enemies of scales in relation to their life histories and seasonal abundance. This study was conducted on trees that were naturally infested with either the soft scale, calico scale Eulecanium cerasorum (Cockerell) or armored scales, striped pine scale Toumeyella pini (King) and pine needle scale Chionaspis pinifoliae (Fitch). Insecticides were applied to target the most susceptible life stages of each scale insect. We found that patterns of the seasonal abundance of natural enemies were synchronized with the life history of each scale insect and took the shape of a rising and falling wave. Overall, impacts of insecticides on parasitoids and predators were influenced by the timing of their applications in relation to when natural enemy abundance began to rise at the cusp of their wave of abundance. Application one month prior to this cusp did not reduce seasonal totals of natural enemy abundance, regardless of insecticide selectivity or residual toxicity. In contrast, when applications were made at the cusp of the natural enemy wave, foliar applications of bifenthrin had greater adverse side effects on natural enemy populations compared to foliar applications of pyriproxifen, spirotetramat, spiromesifin, and chlorantraniliprole or a soil application of dinotefuran. We present evidence to suggest that restricting applications during the cusp of the natural enemy activity wave can result in a better integration of chemical and biological control.
MIFEPRISTONE TREATMENT FOR MILD AUTONOMOUS CORTISOL SECRETION DUE TO ADRENAL ADENOMAS: A PILOT STUDY

Objective: Adrenal incidentalomas are increasingly detected with the widespread use of thoracic and abdominal imaging. The most common secretory syndrome in adrenal nodules is autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS). Recent data show that even mild cortisol excess is associated with adverse outcomes. The glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone has been used in patients with overt Cushing syndrome and hyperglycemia. The purpose of our study was to determine the effect of mifepristone on metabolic parameters in patients with ACS and concomitant prediabetes or diabetes. Methods: Eight patients with either unilateral or bilateral adrenal nodules with ACS were included in the study. Fasting laboratory tests including glucose and insulin levels to calculate homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were performed at baseline and again after either 3 months (3 patients) or 6 months (5 patients) on mifepristone 300 mg daily treatment. Patients also completed several validated surveys on mood and quality of life at baseline and follow-up. Results: There were significant reductions in fasting glucose measurements and insulin resistance as measured by HOMA-IR in the 6 of 8 study patients in whom these measurements were available (P = .03). Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrates that mifepristone treatment of ACS is associated with a significant decrease in fasting glucose and insulin resistance as measured by HOMA-IR scores. Mifepristone treatment of ACS may be considered as a medical option for patients with ACS due to adrenal adenomas with concomitant abnormal glucose parameters in whom surgical removal is not being considered. Abbreviations: ACS = autonomous cortisol secretion; ACTH = adrenocorticotropic hormone; AI = adrenal incidentaloma; DHEAS = dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate; GR = glucocorticoid receptor; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; HOMA-IR = homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance; ODT = overnight dexamethasone suppression test; QoL = quality of life; STAI = state trait anxiety inventory; TSH = thyroid stimulating hormone; UFC = urinary free cortisol.
Liquid Crystalline and Isotropic Coacervates of Semiflexible Polyanions and Flexible Polycations

Polyelectrolyte complex coacervation plays an essential role in compartmentalization in living cells and is important in multiple scenarios of prebiotic evolution. This has fueled considerable inte...
Abstract WP407: Role of the Stroke Response Nurse to Improve Compliance with Key Stroke Performance Indicators

Background and Issues: Comprehensive Stroke Centers are in high demand and bed availability can be limited. Oftentimes, patients are admitted to non-neuro intensive care units while waiting for a N...
Molecular sampling at logarithmic rates for next-generation sequencing

Next-generation sequencing is a cutting edge technology, but to quantify a dynamic range of abundances for different RNA or DNA species requires increasing sampling depth to levels that can be prohibitively expensive due to physical limits on molecular throughput of sequencers. To overcome this problem, we introduce a new general sampling theory which uses biophysical principles to functionally encode the abundance of a species before sampling, SeQUential depletIon and enriCHment (SQUICH). In theory and simulation, SQUICH enables sampling at a logarithmic rate to achieve the same precision as attained with conventional sequencing. A simple proof of principle experimental implementation of SQUICH in a controlled complex system of ~262,000 oligonucleotides already reduces sequencing depth by a factor of 10. SQUICH lays the groundwork for a general solution to a fundamental problem in molecular sampling and enables a new generation of efficient, precise molecular measurement at logarithmic or better sampling depth.
Impact of intrauterine transfusion on fetal coagulation physiology by thromboelastography

OBJECTIVE Thromboelastography (TEG) is a point-of-care device used to evaluate whole blood coagulation function. The TEG is unique as a test of coagulation function in that it measures the interaction of all components of clot formation, which is different than traditional laboratory-based tests that measure isolated components of coagulation. Little is known about fetal coagulation physiology. We sought to evaluate the impact of severe fetal anemia and intrauterine transfusion (IUT) on fetal coagulation physiology by use of the TEG and to compare fetal TEG values to those of healthy neonates and adults. METHOD One milliliter of fetal blood was collected immediately before (pre) and after (post) IUT of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). Sampling and transfusion were performed for fetal anemia due to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Samples were run in duplicate. For descriptive summary, duplicate pre-IUT and post-IUT values were averaged. Values for R (initiation of clot in minutes), K (clot firmness in minutes), angle (kinetics of clot development in degrees), and MA (maximum strength in mm) were obtained for each sample and presented using mean ± SE. Pre-IUT values for R, K, angle, and MA were compared with post-IUT values using linear mixed-effect model to account for clustering due to repeated observation from the same fetus. Pre-IUT values are compared with normal healthy term neonates and healthy adults using Wald test. The study was approved by the University of Pittsburgh Institutional Review Board (PRO14050051). RESULTS Four fetuses underwent nine IUTs rendering 17 pre-IUT and 17 post-IUT specimens. The mean gestational age at IUT was 31 weeks 2 days (25 weeks 4 days to 35 weeks 2 days). The mean IUT volume transfused was 69 mL (30-170 mL). The mean estimated percent intravascular volume transfused was 33.4% (19%-52%). Of the four variables analyzed, only R showed a significant difference, with the initiation of clot formation being modestly delayed after transfusion by an estimated 2.87 minutes (95% CI, 0.82-4.92, P = .0480). Pre-IUT values were compared with 100 normal term neonates and 118 healthy adults. Compared with pre-IUT, only R was affected (shorter) compared with term neonates (mean ± SE = 5.46 ± 0.16 minute, P < .001) and healthy adults (mean ± SE = 6.8 ± 0.13 minute, P < .001). CONCLUSION OTHER THAN A MODEST PROLONGATION OF CLOT FORMATION TIME, IUT OF PRBCS OF UP TO 52% OF THE ESTIMATED INTRAVASCULAR VOLUME DID NOT AFFECT FETAL COAGULATION FUNCTION BY TEG. OTHER THAN A SHORTER CLOT FORMATION TIME (R), THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE IN TEG VALUES BETWEEN ANEMIC PRETERM FETUSES AND HEALTHY TERM NEONATES AND HEALTHY ADULTS. BEYOND GENERALIZABLE KNOWLEDGE, THIS INFORMATION COULD BE EXPLOITED FOR FUTURE FETAL INTERVENTION TECHNIQUES.
Due Process in International Antitrust Enforcement: An Idea Whose Time Has Come

The past year has witnessed an upsurge of international interest in due process in antitrust enforcement, reflected in two new comparative studies and International Competition Network’s (ICN’s) May 2019 adoption of its Recommended Practices for Investigative Process and Framework for Competition Agency Procedures and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Competition Committee’s discussion of the Draft Recommendation on Transparency and Procedural Fairness in Competition Law Enforcement in June 2019. This article reviews those developments, traces key differences among them, and looks ahead to what comes next.
Utilization of speech-language, occupational and physical therapy by diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

Background Although Medicaid coverage of treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is expanding, we know little about when children receive speech-language, occupational and/or physical therapy. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between predisposing, enabling and need characteristics and utilization of speech-language, occupational and physical therapy by diagnosis of ASD. Methods We integrated administrative, Medicaid and Census data using a large sample of children with ASD who enrolled in a 1915(c) Home and Community Based Medicaid waiver in a south-eastern state (N = 1,968) to explore (1) the percent of treatment utilization by ASD diagnosis, (2) the type of therapy utilized and (3) the predisposing, enabling and need characteristics associated with utilization. Results The percent of utilization was 71%; 65.8% utilized SLT, 33.4% utilized OT and 18.4% utilized PT. Enabling (i.e., urbanicity, age of diagnosis and early intervention programme enrolment) and need (i.e., intellectual disability) characteristics were associated with utilization whereas predisposing social characteristics (i.e., sex and child race-ethnicity and neighbourhood racial composition, poverty and affluence) were not associated with utilization. Conclusions Findings highlight the value in monitoring when children begin treatment. As governments in the United States and globally work to maximize children's potential, additional research that can inform efforts to facilitate earlier utilization will be key to promoting optimal outcomes.
Assessing the benefit of reoperations in patients who suffer from fecal incontinence after repair of their anorectal malformation.

Abstract Background and Aim Patients with a previously repaired anorectal malformation (ARM) can suffer from complications which lead to incontinence. Reoperation can improve the anatomic result, but its impact on functional outcomes is unclear. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with a previously repaired ARM who underwent redo PSARP at our Center and compared results at initial assessment and 12 months after redo. Results One hundred fifty-three patients underwent a redo PSARP for anoplasty mislocation (n = 93, 61%), stricture (n = 55, 36%), remnant of the original fistula (n = 28, 18%), or rectal prolapse (n = 11, 7%). Post-redo complications included stricture (n = 33, 22%) and dehiscence (n = 5, 3%). At 1-year post-redo, 75/153 (49%) are on laxatives only, of whom 57 (76%) are continent of stool. Of the remaining 78 (51%) patients, 61 (78%) are clean (≤ 1 accident per week) on enemas. Interestingly, 16/79 (20%) of patients with expected poor continence potential were continent of stool on laxatives. Overall, 118/153 (77%) are clean after their redo. Quality of life (76.7 vs. 83.8, p = 0.05) and Baylor continence (29.2 vs. 17.7, p = Conclusion Patients with fecal incontinence after an ARM repair can, with a reoperation, have their anatomy corrected which can restore continence for many, and improve their quality of life. Level of Evidence IV. Type of study Retrospective cohort study.
The Strategic Effects of Trademark Protection

We study the effects of trademark protection on firmsâ€™ profits and strategy using the 1996 Federal Trademark Dilution Act, which granted additional legal protection to selected trademarks. We find that the FTDA raised treated firmsâ€™ operating profits and was followed by a spike in trademark lawsuits and lower entry and exit in affected product markets. Treated firms reduced RD editorial decision May 16, 2019 by Editor Francesca Cornelli. Authors have furnished code/data and an Internet Appendix, which are available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Retrospective analysis of hemispheric structural network change as a function of location and size of glioma

Gliomas are neoplasms that arise from glial cell origin and represent the largest fraction of primary malignant brain tumours (77%). These highly infiltrative malignant cell clusters modify brain structure and function through expansion, invasion and intratumoral modification. Depending on the growth rate of the tumour, location and degree of expansion, functional reorganization may not lead to overt changes in behaviour despite significant cerebral adaptation. Studies in simulated lesion models and in patients with stroke reveal both local and distal functional disturbances, using measures of anatomical brain networks. Investigations over the last two decades have sought to use diffusion tensor imaging tractography data in the context of intracranial tumours to improve surgical planning, intraoperative functional localization, and post-operative interpretation of functional change. In this study, we used diffusion tensor imaging tractography to assess the impact of tumour location on the white matter structural network. To better understand how various lobe localized gliomas impact the topology underlying efficiency of information transfer between brain regions, we identified the major alterations in brain network connectivity patterns between the ipsilesional versus contralesional hemispheres in patients with gliomas localized to the frontal, parietal or temporal lobe. Results were indicative of altered network efficiency and the role of specific brain regions unique to different lobe localized gliomas. This work draws attention to connections and brain regions which have shared structural susceptibility in frontal, parietal and temporal lobe glioma cases. This study also provides a preliminary anatomical basis for understanding which affected white matter pathways may contribute to preoperative patient symptomology.
Neighborhood disadvantage and the sales of unhealthy products: alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy snack food

Individuals may use unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy snack consumption. The purpose of this study was to assess how neighborhood disadvantage is associated with sales of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy snacks at stores of a discount variety store chain. Alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy snack sales were measured monthly for 20 months, 2017–2018, in 16 discount variety stores in the United States. Mixed effects linear regressions adjusted for population size, with store-specific random effects, to examine the relationship of weekly unit sales with three outcome variables and neighborhood disadvantage, measured using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). The discount variety stores were located in neighborhoods where the median ADI percentile was 87 [interquartile range 83,89], compared to the median ADI percentile of 50 for all US communities, indicating that the stores were located in substantially disadvantaged neighborhoods. For every 1% increase in ADI, weekly unit sales of unhealthy snack food increased by 43 [95% confidence interval, CI 28–57], and weekly unit sales of tobacco products increased by 11.5 [95% CI 5–18] per store. No significant relationship between neighborhood disadvantage and the weekly unit sales of alcohol products was identified. The positive relationship between neighborhood disadvantage and the sale of tobacco and snack foods may help explain the pathway between neighborhood disadvantage and poor health outcomes. It would be useful for future research to examine how neighborhood disadvantage influences resident health-related behaviors.
Perioperative outcomes of inpatient laparoscopic Heller myotomy and per-oral endoscopic myotomy in the United States.

Background Per-oral endoscopic myotomy is an alternative to pneumatic dilation and laparoscopic Heller myotomy to treat lower esophageal sphincter diseases. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy and per-oral endoscopic myotomy perioperative outcomes data come from relatively small retrospective series and 1 randomized trial. We aimed to estimate the number of inpatient procedures performed in the United States and compare perioperative outcomes and costs of laparoscopic Heller myotomy and per-oral endoscopic myotomy using a nationally representative database. Methods Cross-sectional retrospective analysis of hospital admissions for laparoscopic Heller myotomy or per-oral endoscopic myotomy from October 2015 through December 2018 in the National Inpatient Sample. Patient and hospital characteristics, concurrent antireflux procedures, perioperative adverse events (any adverse event and those associated with extended length of stay ≥3 days), mortality, length of stay, and costs were compared. Logistic regression evaluated factors independently associated with adverse events. Results An estimated 11,270 patients had laparoscopic Heller myotomy (n = 9,555) or per-oral endoscopic myotomy (n = 1,715) without significant differences in demographics and comorbidities. A concurrent anti-reflux procedure was more frequent with laparoscopic Heller myotomy (72.8% vs 15.5%, P Conclusion In this national database review, laparoscopic Heller myotomy had a lower rate of perioperative adverse events at similar length of stay and costs than per-oral endoscopic myotomy. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy remains a safer procedure than per-oral endoscopic myotomy for a myotomy of the distal esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter in the United States.
The Region-Based Subsystem

In this chapter, we describe the details of the ARBIRS’s Region-Based Subsystem. As our novel image segmentation method constitutes the core of the Region-Based Subsystem, we provide a full description of the method. This includes the discussion of the optimal color space for image segmentation, the derivation of the mathematical model for handling images under non-uniform illumination, and the segmentation algorithm based on the mathematical model. To establish a complete intelligent image database system, an effective image indexing and search scheme is indispensable. In the last section of this chapter, we describe the Index Creation Module that creates indices in conjunction with the SR-Tree. This indexing scheme enables us to rapidly retrieve the desired images from a large-scale database.
Growth and Cellular Composition in Rats with Intrauterine Growth Retardation: Effects of Postnatal Nutrition

We evaluated the catch-up growth of rats with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) raised in normal litters (8-10 pups) or in large litters (14-16 pups) during the first 2 wk of life. We also studied the influence of nutrition on cellular composition at birth and at 2 wk. Fifty-four pups (27 IUGR and 27 controls) were enrolled into normal or undernutrition groups. Postnatal undernutrition resulted in significantly lower growth in both control and IUGR rat pups than in normally fed pups. In the control group, postnatal undernutrition resulted in a lower liver weight but not a lower brain weight. Underfeeding of the IUGR group produced a greater number of cells of the brain and liver, but with smaller cell size than in normally fed IUGR rats. We conclude that compensatory catch-up growth in the mild-IUGR rat occurs if the postnatal nutrition is adequate. When postnatal nutrition is restricted, the non-IUGR rats became malnourished at 2 wk of age and the mild-IUGR rats did not demonstrate the catch-up growth phenomenon as was seen in those with adequate nutrition. In the severe-IUGR rat, undernutrition further compromised growth rate, so that at 2 wk of age their weights were the lowest of all the groups studied.
Suppressor T cell growth and differentiation: production of suppressor T cell differentiation factor by the murine thymoma BW5147.

Previous studies have identified a lymphokine, termed Ts differentiation factor (TsDF), in primary MLR supernatants that induces effector function of alloantigen-primed MLR-Ts. The present report describes constitutive production of TsDF by the murine thymoma BW5147, and its use to analyze alloantigen and TsDF requirements for MLR-Ts activation to TsF production. Serum-free supernatants of BW5147 restored the capacity of MLR-TsF production to alloantigen-primed MLR-Ts cultured with glutaraldehyde-fixed allogeneic stimulator cells, and were not themselves directly suppressive in the MLR assay. BW5147 supernatant induced MLR-TsF production from primed L3T4-Ly2+ MLR-Ts in the absence of concomitant proliferation, suggesting that the function of BW5147 supernatant, like that of MLR-derived TsDF, is a differentiative rather than a proliferative one, and is required for the synthesis or release of TsF. The differentiative activity of BW5147 supernatant was associated with a molecular species of approximately 14,500 m.w. by HPLC fractionation and was expressed independently of detectable IL 2, IL 3, IFN-gamma, and IL 1. The functional activity of BW5147 supernatant has therefore been provisionally designated BW5147-derived Ts differentiative factor, or BW-TsDF. By using BW-TsDF, it was demonstrated that MLR-Ts fail to respond to TsDF in the absence of, or preceding, reexposure to priming alloantigen. Instead, alloantigen binding by primed MLR-Ts appears to create a transient state of TsDF responsiveness. Primed MLR-Ts were fully sensitive to delayed addition of TsDF for approximately 12 hr after reexposure to alloantigen, but became TsDF-unresponsive within 24 to 36 hr. MLR-Ts cultured alone for 36 hr were fully responsive to the combined addition of TsDF and alloantigen. Thus, MLR-Ts activation to TsF release requires the sequential events of specific alloantigen binding, which induces a TsDF-responsive state, followed by interaction with TsDF. The transience of induced TsDF responsiveness suggests a precise mechanism for control of antigen-initiated Ts activation to effector function.
Control of pyrimidine biosynthesis by phage T4. II. In vitro complementation between ribonucleotide reductase mutants.

Abstract T4 genes controlling ribonucleotide reductase activity have been studied using in vitro complementation of the gene products. Three phage genes have been identified, nrd A, B, and C. The nrd A and B genes are clustered together on the genetic map with three other genes involved in deoxythymidylate synthesis, but nrd C is unlinked. It appears that nrd A and B control subunits of ribonucleotide reductase and nrd C controls a heat-stable thioredoxin. Nonsense mutants in nrd B show no polar effects on nrd A.
Between tradition and modernity: changing gender roles among the Bribri and Boruca women of Costa Rica

This work discusses the changing social roles of women from the Bribri and Boruca indigenous people located in the Central Valley region of Costa Rica. Ethnographic data collected over several years from women who have left indigenous villages as well as those who have remained reveals how roles, relationships and representation among the groups have been affected.
The incidence of polyps in 500 proctosigmoidoscopies in asymptomatic young men.

Summary 1.Five hundred completely asymptomatic males aged 17 to 25 years were subjected to proctosigmoidoscopy. 2.Eight (1.6 per cent) were found to have rectal polyps; 2 of these patients had multiple polyps; all polyps were benign. 3.The pertinent literature is reviewed and our findings compared. 4.Our findings lead us to urge strongly that proctosigmoidoscopy be in cluded in the complete physical examination of all patients.
A hybrid allocator

Dynamic memory management can make up to 30% of total program execution time. Object oriented languages like C++ allocate and free dynamic memory prolifically. Since computer memory is a limited resource its efficient utilization is required to minimize wastage and keep costs down. Memory management algorithms such as best fit seem to perform most efficiently in terms of space cost while simple segregated storage seems to minimize the time cost. There is a trade-off between time and space costs. We have developed a new general purpose hybrid algorithm that shows excellent performance with respect to both time and space in comparison to the Doug Lea version 2.7.0 dynamic memory allocator.
Benthic Ecology of Northern Quahog Beds with Different Hydraulic Dredging Histories in Long Island Sound

ABSTRACT Mercaldo-Allen, R.; Goldberg, R.; Clark, P.; Kuropat, C.; Meseck, S.L., and Rose, J.M., 2016. Benthic ecology of northern quahog beds with different hydraulic dredging histories in Long Island Sound. This paper evaluates benthic community composition of four shellfish beds in Long Island Sound near Milford, Connecticut, where northern quahog or hard clams, Mercenaria mercenaria (Linnaeus 1758), were harvested by hydraulic dredge. These leased beds reflect a variety of dredging histories; 0 year (dredged just before sampling began), 1 year postharvest, 2 years postharvest, and an inactive clam bed left fallow for at least 10 years. Benthic sediment was sampled at 1- to 2-week intervals from June to October 2011 using a Smith–McIntyre grab. Benthic community composition was significantly influenced by dredging history and sampling month. Abundance of benthic organisms (number of individuals and biovolume) and total organic matter concentrations were significantly greater at the 0-year site than at ...
Ultrasonic assessment of satellite structural components and joints

One of the key issues in enabling fast and reliable deployment of space systems is structural qualification before launch. The current qualification process is rather long and may span many months. It is envisioned that structural health monitoring (SHM) could assist with verification of structural assembly during pre-launch procedures and enable diagnosis of satellite components. The proposed satellite SHM system utilizes active sensors to launch and receive elastic waves carrying elasticity information about the structural material. Sensor signatures are analyzed for variation of the elastic behavior due to damage. Satellite structural components typically feature complex geometries involving isogrids and bolted joints. Simple representations of complex structures are studied first, followed by investigation of elastic wave propagation in a realistic satellite panel. The sensor network approach is utilized to detect and locate structural damage. The acousto-elastic method is implemented for diagnosis of bolted joints in the satellite panel. Sensitivity of the method is explored for various damage scenarios and a practical damage detection algorithm is suggested. It is shown that the acousto-elastic method allows for assessment of the structural integrity of complex structural elements with bolted joints.
Transcriptional enhancers in the HLA-DQ subregion.

Abstract Using transient expression assays, the HLA-DQ alpha and HLA-DQ beta genes of the human major histocompatibility complex were screened for cis-acting regulatory elements. Two regions in the HLA-DQ alpha gene and one in the HLA-DQ beta gene were identified which fulfilled the criteria for transcriptional enhancers.
Extended Transaction Models for Software Development Environments

This technical repon consists of two papers discussing concurrency control facilities for multiuser software development environments. A Marvelous Extended Transaction Processing Model briefly sketches the previously developed commit-serializability model and then applies it to the MARVEL kernel for software development environments. A Participant Semantics for Serializable Transactions describes our first pass at a different extended transaction model that moves users inside the system, so certain users may participate in transactions and the interactions among transactions while all other users observe only a serial order for the transactions. Prof. Kaiser is supported by National Science Foundation grants CCR-88S8029 and CCR-8802741, by grants from AT&T, DEC, ffiM, Siemens, Sun and Xerox, by the Center for Advanced Technology and by the Center for Telecommunications Research. A Marvelous Extended Transaction Processing Model Gail E. Kaiser Columbia University Deparnnent of Computer Science New York. NY 10027 kaiser@columbia.edu 212-854-3856
Tuning, ergodicity, equilibrium, and cosmology

I explore the possibility that the cosmos is fundamentally an equilibrium system and review the attractive features of such theories. Equilibrium cosmologies are commonly thought to fail due to the ``Boltzmann brain'' problem. I show that it is possible to evade the Boltzmann brain problem if there is a suitable coarse-grained relationship between the fundamental degrees of freedom and the cosmological observables. I make my main points with simple toy models and then review the de Sitter equilibrium model as an illustration.
Antiadhesion elastomer seal coatings for UV and atomic oxygen protection

Radiation blocking sunscreen coatings have been developed for the protection of elastomer seals used in low-Earth-orbit (LEO). The coatings protect the seals from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and atomic oxygen (AO) damage. The coatings were developed for use on NASA docking seals. Docking seal damage from the UV and AO present in LEO can constrain mission time-line, flight mode options, and increases risk. A low level of adhesion is also required for docking seals so undocking push-off forces can be low. The coatings presented also mitigate this unwanted adhesion. Greases with low collected volatile condensable materials (CVCM) and low total mass loss (TML) were mixed with slippery and/or UV blocking powders to create the protective coatings. Coatings were applied at rates up to 2 mg/cm2. Coated seals were exposed to AO and UV in the NUV (near-UV) and UV-C wavelength ranges (300 to 400 nm and 254 nm, respectively). Ground based ashers were used to simulate the AO of space. The Sun's UV energy was mimicked assuming a nose forward flight mode, resulting in an exposure rate of 2.5 MJ/m2 day. Exposures between 0 and 147 MJ/m2 (UV-C) and 245 MJ/m2 (NUV) were accomplished. The protective coatings were durable, providing protection from UV after a simulated docking and undocking cycle. The level of protection begins to decline at coverage rates less than 0.9 mg/cm2. The leakage of seals coated with Braycote + 20%Z-cote ZnO sunscreen increased by a factor of 40 after moderate AO exposure; indicating that this coating might not be suitable due to AO intolerance. Seals coated with DC-7–16.4%Z-cote ZnO sunscreen were not significantly affected by combined doses of 2 × 1021 atoms/cm2 AO with 73 MJ/m2 UV-C. Unprotected seals were significantly damaged at UV-C exposures of 0.3 MJ/m2 and DC-7–16.4%Z-cote coated seals were undamaged at all exposures up to the limits tested thus far which were 147 MJ/m2 UV-C and 245 MJ/m2 NUV. The coatings decreased adhesion sufficiently for docking seals at temperatures equal to or greater than −8°C thus offer a simple and inexpensive way to mitigate adhesion. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41662.
Control of growth and adiposity of juvenile chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)

Chinook salmon fry (0.7 g, 3.9% whole body lipid) were fed high protein diets containing high lipid (HL) (65% protein, 23% lipid) or low lipid (LL) (85% protein, 3% lipid) at high ration (near satiation = HR) or low ration (one half of high ration = LR) for 247 days to determine if growth and adiposity could be independently controlled. Each treatment was duplicated with each tank containing 400 fish. The amount of feed fed to each tank of fish was adjusted each month so that fish fed at a prescribed ration level (HR or LR) would grow at similar rates. The effects of ration and dietary lipid level on final weight, adiposity, feed efficiency (wet weight gain/dry feed fed) and protein retention efficiency were assessed using regression, two-way ANOVA and ANCOVA (P < 0.05). Overall feed efficiency (109–127%) was lowest in the HR/HL treatment but differences among treatments were not significant. For the different treatments (HR/HL, HR/LL, LR/HL, LR/LL), the amounts of dry feed fed averaged; 17.5, 15.4, 6.7 and 6.1 g/fish, final mean fish weights were, 20.2, 19.5, 9.2 and 8.7 g and final mean whole body lipids were, 11.3, 5.4, 7.1, 3.9%. These results show that ration level had the major influence on growth, whereas dietary lipid level was the major determinant of adiposity. This appears to have occurred because when protein was supplied in excess, it was not spared by lipid. Thus it may be possible for enhancement hatcheries and commercial salmon farms to manipulate growth and adiposity by regulating ration and controlling diet composition.
Analysis of the Structure and Expression of the Human Dopamine D2A Receptor Gene

: In order to study the possible involvement of dopamine receptors in the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric disorders, we have isolated the human D2A gene. Like the rat D2A gene, the human gene contains at least eight exons and spans at least 52 kb. Exons 2–8 are clustered within 14 kb of genome. Exon 1 is separated from exon 2 by at least 38 kb. We and others have shown that alternative utilization of exon 6 gives rise to alternative D2A transcripts. Despite the extreme size of intron 1, no alternative transcription between exons 1 and 2 can be detected in basal ganglia and pituitary using polymerase chain reaction analysis. The relative abundance and tissue distribution of the alternative D2A transcripts were examined in 18 human brain regions. The relative expression of the transcripts varied by at least 70-fold across the brain regions surveyed. As expected, high levels of transcripts were detected in caudate, putamen, and pituitary. Moderate levels were detected in regions of catecholamine-containing cell bodies and in the amygdala. In contrast to the rat brain, very low levels of transcripts were detected in cortical regions.
High-bandwidth second-harmonic generation in partially deuterated KDP

We have experimentally determined the spectrally noncritical phasematching behavior of Type I frequency doubling in KDP and its dependence on deuteration level in partially deuterated KDP. The first order wavelength sensitivity parameter (alpha) (Delta) k/(alpha) (lambda) for Type I doubling of 1.053 micrometers light vanishes for a KD*P crystal with a deuteration level between 10 and 14%. Very high bandwidth frequency doubling of Nd:glass lasers is possible with such a crystal.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Cross-reactivity between storage and dust mites and between mites and shrimp

Many patients have sensitivities to multiple species of storage and house dust mites. It is not clear if this is because patients have multiple sensitivities to species-specific mite allergens or if these mites share many cross-reacting allergens. Our objective was to further define the cross-allergenicity between several species of storage and house dust mites using crossed-immunoelectrophoresis (CIE), crossed-radioimmunoelectrophoresis (CRIE), immunoblotting, and ELISA. CIE and CRIE reactions revealed that storage mites shared two cross-antigenic molecules and one of these bound IgE in a serum pool from mite allergic patients. Antibody in anti-sera built to each species of mite recognized many SDS-PAGE resolved proteins of other mite species and this suggested the potential for other cross-reactive allergens. Among patient sera, IgE bound to many different proteins but few had IgE that bound to a protein with common molecular weights across the mite species and this suggested mostly species-specific allergens. Antiserum built to each mite species precipitated one protein in shrimp extracts that bound anti-Der p 10 (tropomyosin) and IgE in the serum pool. Anti-Der p 10 showed strong binding to shrimp tropomyosin but very little to any of the mite proteins. ELISA showed the mite extracts contained very little tropomyosin. The storage and dust mites investigated contain mostly species-specific allergens and very small amounts of the pan-allergen tropomyosin compared to shrimp and snail.
Systemic response to low-dose endotoxin infusion in cats.

Sepsis is a common problem in feline patients and is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. There has been little research investigating the physiologic response to bacterial infection in cats, in part because appropriate models have not been developed. The objective of this study was to characterize the response to low-dose LPS infusion in conscious, healthy cats. Measures of systemic inflammation, hemodynamic stability, coagulation, metabolic function, and organ damage were compared between placebo and low-dose LPS infusion (2 mcg/kg/h × 4 h, IV) in cats, with each cat serving as its own control. Markers of systemic inflammation including temperature, plasma TNF activity, IL-6, CXCL-8 and IL-10 concentrations were significantly increased and white blood cell counts were significantly decreased after LPS infusion. A biphasic hypotensive response was observed after initiation of LPS infusion without concurrent tachycardia. Additionally, LPS administration significantly increased blood glucose, lactate and creatinine concentrations. Patchy alveolar congestion, multifocal acute alveolar epithelial necrosis, and mild pulmonary edema were noted in the lungs along with acute centrilobular hepatocellular necrosis, and mild lymphocyte apoptosis in the spleen and/or intestinal Peyer's patches. No biologically significant alterations in coagulation parameters developed after LPS infusion. Low-dose LPS infusion in cats induced systemic inflammation, hemodynamic derangement, metabolic alterations and mild organ damage. Low-dose endotoxin infusion is a viable pre-clinical model to study naturally developing sepsis in cats.
Prenatal midtrimester fetal long bone measurements and the prediction of small-for-gestational-age fetuses at term.

OBJECTIVE To determine if the length of fetal long bones (LB) at mid-trimester ultrasound is predictive of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) newborns at term delivery. METHODS Retrospective evaluation of 6,781 women between 18 and 24 weeks' gestation at Magee-Womens Hospital (MWH). Gestational age (GA) was confirmed by first- or second-trimester ultrasound and patient's last menstrual period. Data were accrued from the institutional database at MWH. LB measurements were normalized to GA at the time of the ultrasound. The ratio was correlated with the probability of delivering an SGA newborn at term. RESULTS In all, 583 women were identified with an SGA newborn (8.6%). LB-to-GA ratios were associated with the probability of delivering an SGA newborn at term (p < 0.001). There was no single LB that proved to be superior in predicting an SGA newborn. CONCLUSION There is a significant association between LB-to-GA ratio at midtrimester and the probability of SGA at term.