cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intraspecific variation overrides origin effects in impacts of litter-derived secondary compounds on larval amphibians.

Secondary compounds leached from plant litter can negatively affect aquatic amphibian larvae. Non-native plants and their potentially distinct secondary compounds may constitute cryptic threats to native amphibians. We used the availability of both native and introduced Phragmites australis (common reed) populations in North America to assess the importance of origin, intraspecific variation, and two purified classes of compounds (tannins and saponins; gradients 0–25 mg L−1) on two common and widespread amphibians (Ambystoma maculatum, spotted salamander, and Lithobates palustris, pickerel frog). In experiments with purified compounds, high tannin concentrations reduced A. maculatum survival and developmental rate while high saponin concentrations reduced survival, developmental rate, and size of L. palustris and reduced A. maculatum developmental rate. In experiments using leaf litter extracts of 14 different P. australis populations, A. maculatum larval survival varied among populations but plant origin (native or introduced) did not explain this variation. In contrast to the lack of effects of purified saponins, increases in saponin concentrations in P. australis leachates significantly decreased A. maculatum survival. Our results suggest: (1) secondary compounds can impact larval amphibian survival and development in species-specific ways; (2) impacts of P. australis on A. maculatum vary among P. australis populations, reflecting intraspecific variation in secondary chemistry; and (3) origin (whether the plant is native or introduced) is a poor predictor of P. australis effects on A. maculatum. Scientists and managers may need to move beyond considering origin as a predictive variable when managing plant communities to benefit amphibians.
Dose and detectability improvements with high energy phase sensitive x-ray imaging in comparison to low energy conventional imaging

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the potential benefits of using high energy x-rays for phase sensitive breast imaging through a comparison with conventional mammography imaging. We compared images of a contrast-detail phantom acquired on a prototype phase sensitive x-ray imaging system with images acquired on a commercial flat panel digital mammography unit. The phase contrast images were acquired using a micro-focus x-ray source with a 50 µm focal spot at 120 kVp and 4.5 mAs, with a magnification factor of 2.46 and a 50 µm pixel pitch. A phase attenuation duality-based phase retrieval algorithm that requires only a single phase contrast image was applied. Conventional digital mammography images were acquired at 27 kVp, 131 mAs and 28 kVp, 54 mAs. For the same radiation dose, both the observer study and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)/figure of merit comparisons indicated a large improvement by the phase retrieved image as compared to the clinical system for the larger disc sizes, but the improvement was not enough to detect the smallest discs. Compared to the double dose image acquired with the clinical system, the observer study also indicated that the phase retrieved image provided improved detection capabilities for all disc sizes except the smallest discs. Thus the SNR improvement provided by phase contrast imaging is not yet enough to offset the noise reduction provided by the clinical system at the doubled dose level. However, the potential demonstrated by this study for high energy phase sensitive x-ray imaging to improve lesion detection and reduce radiation dose in mammography warrants further investigation of this technique.
Infrared studies of water bound to some extracted phenanthroline and phenanthroline chelates

Abstract The results show that water is associated with phenanthroline, bathophenanthroline, neocuproine, Fe(Phen)32+, Fe(Bath)32+, Ru(Bath)32+, and Cu(Neo)2+ when these compounds are extracted from water in nitromethane. In the case of phenanthroline, bathophenanthroline, and neo-cuproine; this associated water is H bonded to the nitrogens of these molecules. While in the chelates Fe(Bath)32+, Fe(Phen)32+, Ru(Bath)32+, and Cu(Neo)2+ the water r is bonded to the metal through the O of water.
Technology Innovation and the Policy Vacuum: A Call for Ethics, Norms, and Laws to Fill the Void

New technologies and innovation open the door to exciting products and practices. As companies explore the possibilities of what can be, they often fail to consider what should be. Advancement often occurs rapidly and legal and policy guidance lags behind leaving a void of clear direction. Companies often interpret this void as giving permission to proceed with the new technology or practice. In some situations, strong customer or public reaction indicates that the technology or practice crosses the line of what is acceptable. This paper explores how the most innovative firms are navigating through an inconsistent, even conflicting, ethical and legal global landscape and calls for the intentional identification of relevant social norms and development of laws to fill the policy vacuum.
ASSESSING INTERPERSONAL FUSION: RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF A NEW DSI FUSION WITH OTHERS SUBSCALE

The Differentiation of Self Inventory (DSI) is a multidimensional measure of differentiation consisting of four subscales focusing on adults (ages 25+), and their significant relationships, including current relationships with family of origin. Although the DSI full scale and three of its subscales are theoretically and psychometrically sound, the Fusion with Others (FO) subscale is lacking. Therefore, responses of 225 adults were used to revise the FO subscale. Results yielded a 12-item, revised FO subscale with improved internal consistency reliability and construct validity. Greater fusion with others was associated with greater spousal fusion and dimensions of adult attachment insecurity. Implications for Bowen theory and suggestions for future research with the DSI-R are discussed.
Spurious singularities in the Schwinger variational method.

We analyze a type of spurious resonance recently identified [see, for example, B. Apagyi, P. L\'evay, and K. Lad\'anyi, Phys. Rev. A 37, 4577 (1988)] in the Schwinger variational method. It is found that this type of anomaly is associated with ill conditioning of the potential matrix V, and that this fact allows the identification and removal of any such resonances by straightforward numerical procedures. We therefore anticipate that such anomalies will have little relevance to practical applications of the Schwinger method.
Relations among the quenching strengths of magnetic transitions due to the. delta. isobar excitation in Nnot =Z nuclei

A possible excitation scheme of particle-hole states in Nnot =Z nuclei is worked out within the isospin formalism. Particle-hole states with a definite isospin are decomposed into 1p-1h (particle-hole), 2p-2h, and 3p-3h states. This decomposition enables us to relate transition strengths from the ground state to the excited states and those in the adjacent nuclei. The same thing is done for ..delta.. isobar-hole states. Using these results, we obtain the relations among the quenching strengths of magnetic transitions in Nnot =Z nuclei. In particular, we apply these relations to the M1 states around /sup 48/Ca and /sup 90/Zr and compare the results with experimental data obtained by (p,n), (p,p'), and (e,e') experiments on /sup 48/Ca and /sup 90/Zr.
Educational needs in genetic medicine: primary care perspectives.

Background/Aims: This study was performed to identify primary care physicians’ (PCPs) attitudes toward genetic medicine and their perceived needs for education in this area. <i&g
The effect of different buffers on terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase activity

The polymerization of dATP, dCTP, and dGTP onto the defined length initiator, d(pA)10, has been carried out in four buffers. The relative effectiveness of the buffers for the polymerization of each deoxynucleoside triphosphate decreased in the order: cacodylate, 2(N-morpholino)ethane sulfonic acid, N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid, and Tris. With the poorer buffers, activity could be increased by the addition of KCl: this effect is not primarily due to an increase in ionic strength. With dGTP as the substrate, but not with dATP or dCTP, activity increased when the concentration of the more active buffers was raised beyond 0.2 M.
Effect of repeated treatment with sustained-release chlorhexidine mouth guards on salivary levels of mutans streptococci.

The effect of multiple treatments with chlorhexidine mouth guards on salivary levels of mutans streptococci (MS) was studied. Eleven subjects with salivary MS ≥ 105 CFU/ml were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group. Complete-arch mouth guards were coated internally with one of two ethylcellulose varnishes, one containing 30% dry w/w chlorhexidine and one containing no chlorhexidine. Subjects wore the mouth guards up to four times, each time for 7 consecutive nights while sleeping, with at least a 1-week break between treatment weeks. Subjects in the control group subsequently crossed over and also wore the chlorhexidine-containing mouth guards. Each of the week-long mouth guard sessions resulted in a reduction in mean salivary MS levels as follows (log10 CFU/ml): for the experimental group, ––1.0, ––0.9, ––1.0 and ––1.2, and for the crossover group, ––1.7, ––0.6, ––0.5 and ––0.6. Salivary MS levels were (mean ± SD) 6.4 ± 0.5 at baseline and 3.8 ± 0.5 after the last mouth guard session for the experimental group and 6.0 ± 0.5 and 4.3 ± 0.7, respectively, for the crossover group. For the control group, there was no significant change in MS levels.
Upscaling conductivity and porosity in three-dimensional heterogeneous porous media

An empirical formula is presented to upscale the conductivity of 3-dimensional heterogeneous porous media, in which the distribution of local-scale conductivity is non-Gaussian with a high variance. The upscaled conductivity is determined as a function of the volumetric proportion, the spatial connectivity and the statistical geometric length of high-permeable inclusions, and the arithmetic mean of conductivities of all hydrofacies. A systematic comparison to other traditional upscaling methods indicates that this empirical formula provides a better estimation of the equivalent conductivity. In the second part of this study, numerical experiments of solute migration reveal that porosity also needs to be upscaled to capture the transport of contaminants in a heterogeneous medium using an effective or upscaled homogeneous medium. This is due to the tendency of contaminants to be preferrentially transported by 3-dimensional pathways composed of high-permeable materials in heterogeneous aquifer systems. The apparent difference between the actual transport velocity of contaminants and the upscaled velocity, based on the equivalent conductivity, forces upscaling of porosity. Further systematic analyses demonstrate that the upscaled porosity follows a non-linear trend as the content of high-permeable sediments decreases. Resultant upscaled porosity, with values varying between 0.004 and 1.5, is beyond the definition of the traditional porosity on the representative elementary volume (REV) scale. When the content of high-permeable materials is less than 30%, the upscaling of porosity is critical in the simulation of the contaminant transport in a heterogeneous medium using an upscaled, homogeneous counterpart.
Micropropagation of wild beet (Beta maritima ) from inflorescence pieces

In order to investigate the regeneration of wild beet (Beta maritima) from inflorescence pieces, the effects of growth regulator, genotype, explant source and stage of plant development on adventitious shoot formation and rooting in vitro and subsequent transplanting in the glasshouse were tested. Inflorescence tips produced more adventitious shoots than sub-apical segments and the best micropropagation was achieved on a Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg l−1 BAP. Addition of auxin was not beneficial. The induction rate of adventitious shoots was genotype-dependent and influenced by the stage of plant development. Adventitious shoots were produced from the base of the flower buds, i.e. from the receptacle, not from axils or stalks and only a few buds on inflorescence tip explants produced adventitious shoots. Rooting was increased by using a MS medium with 3% sucrose supplemented with 1.0 mg l−1 NAA. There was no variation in leaf morphology of the transplants. This work shows that inflorescence tips can be used successfully as explants for in vitro multiplication of sugar beet and wild beet.
Environmental shotgun sequencing: its potential and challenges for studying the hidden world of microbes.

Environmental shotgun sequencing promises to reveal novel and fundamental insights into the hidden world of microbes, but the complexity of analysis required to realize this potential poses unique interdisciplinary challenges.
Moisture sorption on the wetting behavior of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) fibers in water and epoxy resin

The moisture sorption of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) fibers and the effects of moisture on the wetting behavior of these fibers in water and in an epoxy resin were studied. The moisture regains in the Kevlar 149 fibers followed a third order polynomial dependency on increasing relative humidity at 23°C. When preconditioned at 0% relative humidity (R.H.), water wettability of Kevlar 49 fibers was superior to that of Kevlar 149 fibers. Resin wettability of the dried Kevlar 49 fibers, on the other hand, was lower than that of Kevlar 149 fibers. Wettability in water and resin of these two fiber types was affected differently by moisture. Exposure to 97% R.H. moisture level significantly lowered water wettability of Kevlar 49 fibers but did not affect the wettability of Kevlar 149 fibers in water. Resin wettability of Kevlar 49 fibers was improved upon exposure to moisture, but the opposite was observed on Kevlar 149 fibers.
CT screening for lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE. In the Early Lung Cancer Action Project (ELCAP), we found not only solid but also part-solid and nonsolid nodules in patients at both baseline and repeat CT screening for lung cancer. We report the frequency and significance of part-solid and nonsolid nodules in comparison with solid nodules.MATERIALS AND METHODS. We reviewed all instances of a positive finding in patients at baseline (from one to six noncalcified nodules) and annual repeat screenings (from one to six newly detected noncalcified nodules with interim growth) to classify each of the nodules as solid, part-solid, or nonsolid. We defined a solid nodule as a nodule that completely obscures the entire lung parenchyma within it. Part-solid nodules are those having sections that are solid in this sense, and nonsolid nodules are those with no solid parts. Chi-square statistics were used to test for differences in the malignancy rates.RESULTS. Among the 233 instances of positive results at baseline screening, 44 (19%) involved a part-sol...
System Modeling for a Supercritical Thermal Energy Storage System

This paper describes a thermodynamic model that simulates the discharge cycle of a single-tank thermal energy storage (TES) system using supercritical fluid in a concentrating solar power plant.
Determination of rank by median absolute deviation (DRMAD): a simple method for determining the number of principal factors responsible for a data matrix

Median absolute deviation (MAD) is a well-established statistical method for determining outliers. This simple statistic can be used to determine the number of principal factors responsible for a data matrix by direct application to the residual standard deviation (RSD) obtained from principal component analysis (PCA). Unlike many other popular methods the proposed method, called determination of rank by MAD (DRMAD), does not involve the use of pseudo degrees of freedom, pseudo F-tests, extensive calibration tables, time-consuming iterations, nor empirical procedures. The method does not require strict adherence to normal distributions of experimental uncertainties. The computations are direct, simple to use and extremely fast, ideally suitable for online data processing. The results obtained using various sets of chemical data previously reported in the chemical literature agree with the early work. Limitations of the method, determined from model data, are discussed. An algorithm, written in MATLAB format, is presented in the Appendix. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PAX 8 Regulates Human WT1 Transcription through a Novel DNA Binding Site

The Wilms' tumor gene (WT1) is an essential gene for kidney and gonadal development, although how WT1 expression is induced in these tissues is not known. One kidney transcription factor likely to play a role in this regulation is PAX 8. The co-expression of WT1 and PAX 8 during kidney development and in Wilms' tumors with an epithelium predominant histology suggested a possible interaction, and indeed, we identified potential core PAX-binding sites in the WT1 promoter. Endogenous PAX 8 plays an important role in the activation of the WT1 promoter, since promoter activity is much stronger in cells with PAX 8 than without. Using binding assays, we searched for evidence of PAX 8-DNA interactions throughout the 652-base pair human WT1 promoter and found only one functional PAX 8 site with DNA binding activity, located 250 base pairs 5' of the minimal promoter. The responsiveness of the PAX 8 site was confirmed by assessing its ability to function as an enhancer significantly activating the minimal promoter in a position- and orientation-independent manner. Using transfection assays, we demonstrated that either endogenous or exogenously added PAX 8 activated the WT1 promoter and that this promoter up-regulation depended upon the presence of an intact PAX 8-binding site. In contrast, the previously reported core PAX 8-binding sites identified by computer analysis of the WT1 promoter failed to specifically bind in vitro translated PAX 8 protein or activate the minimal promoter. Thus, we identified a novel functional binding site for the transcription factor PAX 8, suggesting that part of its role in kidney development may be as a modulator of WT1 expression in the kidney.
Further characterization of Rockwell Scientific LWIR HgCdTe detector arrays

Future infrared space missions will undoubtedly employ passively cooled focal plane arrays (T ~ 30K), as well as passively cooled telescopes. Most long-wave detector arrays (e.g. Si:As IBC) require cooling to temperatures of ~ 6-8K. We have been working with Rockwell Scientific Company to produce <= 10 micron cutoff HgCdTe detector arrays that, at temperatures of ~30K, exhibit sufficiently low dark current and sufficiently high detective quantum efficiency, as well as high uniformity in these parameters, to be interesting for astronomy. Our goal is to achieve dark current below the target value of ~ 30 e-/s/pixel with at least 60mV of actual reverse bias across the diodes at T ~ 30K. To this end, Rockwell Scientific Company has delivered three 10 micron cutoff HgCdTe low dark current detector arrays with small capacitance diodes for characterization in Rochester. The most recent presentation showed the remarkable preliminary performance of the first of these devices. We present further results on the first device along with results on the subsequent two deliveries.
Branched-chain amino acid aminotransferase activity in the tissues of lake trout.

Abstract 1. 1. The enzyme branched-chain amino acid aminotransferase (BCAT) was found in five tissues of fingerling lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush , (listed in order of decreasing tissue specific activity): posterior kidney, skeletal muscle, gill, liver, and anterior kidney. 2. 2. This pattern is consistent with that found in other animals. 3. 3. The results of this study seem to indicate that BCAT in the liver of lake trout has a higher specific activity than that of the rat and that the specific activity is higher in both the liver and skeletal muscle than it is in these organs of the chick.
Pneumomediastinum: An Unusual Complication of Needle Biopsy of the Lung

Pneumomediastinum without pneumothorax is an unusual and apparently benign complication of needle biopsy of the lung.
Mechanical prperties and microstructure of heat-treated ultrahigh carbon steels

Abstract The mechanical properties of submicron grain size plain carbon steels (1.3 and 1.6% C) have been studied after heat treatment. It has been shown that such steels can be austenitized and quenched to high hardness (Rc = 67), high compression fracture strength (4345 MPa (about 630 klbf in−2)), and good compression ductility (about 10%). These unusual and desirable characteristics are achieved by austenitizing at low temperature, where a fine austenite grain size exists, prior to quenching. In contrast, austenitizing at high temperature leads to a decrease in fracture strength because of a coarsening of the transformation products. Microscopic studies of samples quenched from low austenitizing temperatures revealed the presence of optically unresolvable martensite and fine undissolved cementite. Transmission electron microscope studies showed a structure consisting mostly of submicron lath martensite, some very fine twin martensite regions and undissolved cementite particles.
PRESENT STATUS OF THE DECAY CONSTANTS

The decay constants of the elements used in geochronology (K/sup 4//sup 0/ Rb/sup 8//sup 7/, U/sup 2//sup 3//sup 5/ U/sup 2//sup 3//sup 8/ and Th/sup 2// sup 3//sup 2/) are examined using two types of liquid scintillation counters. The advantages and difficulties inherent in the use of liquid scintillators are reviewed. The half lives of Rb/sup 8//sup 7/ and K/sup 4//sup 0/ are given and future experiments on the U and Th isotopes are described. (T.F.H.)
Psychodynamics of adults with hoarseness

Abstract Investigators into the relationship between voice and personality have for the most part been unable to demonstrate accurate correlations between vocal factors and specific personality traits. Studies of dysphonic patients with and without vocal pathology have, however, indicated the presence of personality factors which may underlie or contribute to the voice problem. This study sought to determine whether specific personality factors are associated with dysphonia related to vocal cord nodules. Data from the psychological evaluation of twenty-five subjects were examined to reveal pertinent psychodynamics. The results showed a resemblance to classical hysteria but no single definitive personality structure.
Child and Parent Understanding of Clinical Trials: The Semi-Structured Comprehension Interview

Background: Understanding is an important goal of the informed consent process in research. We sought to assess the interrater reliability (IRR) and concurrent validity of two measures of understanding in child and young adult subjects and their parents. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey and interview-based study of children and young adults participating in a clinical trial for cancer, along with one parent per child or young adult subject. We estimated the IRR of the Semi-Structured Comprehension Interview (SSCI) and the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (MacCAT-CR). We also estimated concordance between the SSCI, the MacCAT-CR, and the Quality of Informed Consent (QuIC). Results: For our sample of 32 subjects (16 parent–child pairs), IRR estimates were high for total score on the SSCI (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.76–0.94), as well as on the understanding (ICC = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.86–0.97) and reasoning (ICC = 0.97...
P2X7 nucleotide receptor: Modulation of LPS-induced macrophage signaling and mediator production

During infection or inflammation, high concentrations of extracellular nucleotides are released into the inflammatory microenvironment, supplying a source of ligand for purinergic receptors that are present on many immune cell types. The P2X 7 receptor, a member of the P2X purinergic receptor family of ATP-gated ion channels, is thought to play an important role in monocyte/macrophage activation. One factor that can powerfully activate macrophages is bacterial lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin, LPS) and although the mechanisms involved in this process are not well understood, it is clear that LPS activation of macrophages is central to the development of septic shock in response to Gram-negative bacteria. Several lines of evidence have demonstrated strong modulatory effects of adenine nucleotides on the events associated with LPS stimulation of macrophages. Further, because the signal transduction cascades initiated in macrophages upon LPS exposure are similar to those resulting from P2X 7 receptor stimulation, and because antagonism of the P2X 7 receptor can attenuate LPS-stimulated signaling events and mediator release, the P2X 7 receptor has been implicated in the control of macrophage responses to LPS. In addition, our laboratory has identified a consensus LPS-binding motif at the extreme carboxyl terminus of the P2X 7 receptor, further supporting the potential for a direct interaction between LPS and this purinergic receptor. In this review, we discuss potential regulatory domains and structural features of the P2X 7 receptor and outline some of the signal transduction pathways activated by P2X 7 receptor agonists. Moreover, we present evidence supporting a critical role for the P2X 7 receptor in modulating or mediating some of the biological effects of LPS in macrophages.
Mössbauer studies of some polysaccharide-iron complexes used as hematinics

Abstract Several oral hematinics (Ferrimin 150, Fermax 150, Irofol, and Polysaccharide Iron 150 Complex) marketed as polysaccharide-iron complexes (PICs) have been investigated using Mossbauer spectroscopy at room temperature. The results indicate that the iron cores of Ferrimin 150 are complex and remarkably similar to those found in the oral hematinic Vitaline. The iron cores of the other three samples were found to consist entirely of well-crystallized hematite (α-Fe 2 O 3 ).
Copper cycles and CuSO4 algicidal capacity in two California lakes

A new reservoir in southern California and a large eutrophic lake in northern California were the sites for an investigation of copper (Cu) in aquatic systems, with attention focused upon toxicity of Cu to algae. Results of bioassay experiments showed significant copper depression of chlorophyll a levels, photosynthesis, and nitrogen fixation at concentrations of 5–10μg//. Blue-green algae are especially susceptible to copper toxicity, primarily because of the inhibition of nitrogen fixation. Theoretical considerations show that Cu is likely to be strongly complexed in natural fresh waters, but not chemically precipitated. Field measurements following a Cu algicide treatment at the reservoir confirmed the expected stability of dissolved copper, showing elevated concentrations persisting for several weeks. Our present information about copper in aquatic systems permits descriptions of various pathways that eventually lead to the sediments. The algicidal effectiveness of copper is quite variable but it is likely to be greatest in lakes where nitrogen-fixing blue-green algae are abundant.
Effect of predator exposure on the performance and survival of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus)

The influence of predator exposure on the survival of hatchery red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus was investigated under laboratory conditions. Several prey-capture (attack distance, mean attack velocity, capture time, and gape cycle duration) and anti-predator (reaction distance, response distance, mean velocity, and maximum velocity) performance variables were quantified using high-speed video for juvenile red drum (25–30 mm standard length, L S ) reared with and without predators (pinfish, Lagodon rhomboides). Univariate contrasts of prey-capture events demonstrated that attack distance (mean ± s.e.) was significantly greater in red drum reared with (1.20 ± 0.16 mm) versus without (0.65 ± 0.09 mm) pinfish predators. During anti-predator events, red drum reared with predators had approximately 300% greater reaction distance and 20%–30% greater response distance, mean velocity and maximum velocity versus fish reared without predators; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Following video assessments, a series of mortality experiments were conducted using free-ranging pinfish predators. Mortality rates (Z) ranged from 0.047 to 0.060 (Z/hr/predator) and did not differ significantly among treatments.
Urban Economics, 6th edition by Arthur O'Sullivan

Arthur O’Sullivan, Urban Economics, 6th edition (New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin, 2007).As someone who first encountered the subject of urban economics while a graduate student in the 1980s, I benefite...
Cretaceous Therian Tarsals and the Metatherian-Eutherian Dichotomy

Diverse metatherian and eutherian tarsal remains from the Late Cretaceous (middle-late Turonian) Bissekty Formation, Kyzylkum Desert, Uzbekistan (ca 90 MYA) are described. Their functional and taxonomic properties, along with those of other tarsal evidence, led to a reassessment of polarity hypotheses of therian, metatherian, and eutherian cruropedal attributes, and the consequences of this for phylogeny of taxa. There are calcaneal remains of several types of marsupials, and a single astragalus that probably belongs to one of these. This represents greater taxonomic diversity than the dental record suggests. Exceptionally large and distally extending peroneal processes, and small and steeply angled calcaneocuboid articulations facing mediodistally, as seen in the Early Cretaceous Sinodelphys and other Cretaceous and Paleogene taxa, attest not only to the metatherian status of these specimens, but also to the retention of many ancestral therian features, even more so than in both the Tiupampa and Itaborai marsupials of the South American Paleocene (both the calcanea and the astragalus suggest therian traits that are decidedly unlike those of symmetrodonts). Calcanea allocated to the deltatherioid species at Bissekty testify unequivocally to their metatherian affinity. The morphology of the best represented sample of eutherian calcanea from Bissekty, presumably of a number of zhelestid species, appears to be more derived than that of the Late Cretaceous/Paleocene Protungulatum in having a much more reduced peroneal process and a calcaneocuboid articulation that faces distally, oriented nearly at a 90° angle to the long axis of the calcaneus. In fact, this distally facing facet, common in later eutherians (except for lineages in the Paleogene record, and various Carnivora), may not be diagnostic of either the protoeutherian, or even of the protoplacentalian, in spite of its presence in Eomaia. Many putatively “basal” lineages have derived characters, hence such outgroups should not be considered the unequivocal repositories of only ancestral character states.
Sleeping with the Enemy: The Impact of War on Trade:

Current debates over the question of whether economic interdependence promotes peace or contributes to international conflict are often framed in terms of the 'paradigm wars' between liberal and realist theory. In spite of their differences, most liberal and realist theories of interdependence and conflict agree that trade and other forms of economic interchange between societies will cease or be substantially reduced once states are engaged in serious forms of conflict with each other, particularly after the outbreak of war. Liberal theories generally assume that political leaders are deterred from engaging in conflict when they anticipate that conflict will disrupt or eliminate trade or adversely affect the terms of trade, so the hypothesis that trade deters war rests on the assumption that war impedes trade. Realist theories suggest that the concern over relative gains will lead at least one of the belligerents to terminate trade in order to prevent its adversary from using the gains from trade to increase its relative military power. Contrary to these predictions, there are numerous historical examples of trade between adversaries that continues during wartime. Our aim here is to examine this phenomenon more systematically by conducting an empirical analysis of the short-term and long-term impact of war on trade for seven dyads in the period since 1870. Applying an interrupted time-series model, we find that in most cases war does not have a significant impact on trading relationships. Although war sometimes leads to a temporary decline in the level of dyadic trade, in most instances war has no permanent long-term effect on trading relationships and, in fact, trade often increases in the postwar period. This empirical anomaly in both liberal and realist theories of interdependence and conflict leads us to conclude that both theories need to be reformulated.
Absorption efficiencies of Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck) (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) for selected marine plants

Abstract The absorption efficiencies of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck) were calculated by an indicator method. Absorption efficiencies for total organic material, protein, lipid, and carbohydrate were highest with Halimeda incrassata Ellis as food (43 %, 65 %, 71 % and 35 %, respectively), and lowest with Eucheuma isiforme C. Agardh as food (−35%, −42%, −56%and −34%, respectively). Moderately positive absorption efficiencies for total organic material were found with Thalassia testudinum Konig & Sims and Ulva lactuca L. as food, and low positive absorption efficiencies for total organic material are found with Syringodium filiformis Kutzing and Sargassum sp. as food. Absorption efficiencies of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (Stimpson) (calculated from the literature) were much greater than those of Lytechinus for carbohydrate, but less for protein and lipid. Both sea urchins showed negative efficiencies for some nutrient fractions of their foods. The absorption index (mg nutrient fraction absorbed/g dry wt ingested) showed that Thalassia supplied the most protein and total organic material (43 mg/g dry wt ingested and 142 mg/g dry wt ingested, respectively). In general, the absorption indices indicate that Lytechinus obtains more protein and lipid, but less carbohydrate from its food than does Strongylocentrotus . In the field Lytechinus has primarily a detrital diet.
Numerically safe method for the solution of one nontrivial example of solitary-wave transport

A numerical procedure to solve the differential equation for solitary waves via iteration for the continuum approximation of a generalized Frenkel-Kontorova model is presented. The generalization consists of adding a constant force and a phenomenological friction force proportional to particle velocity. The equation of motion is cast into integral form via a Green's function. Use is made of the sine-Gordon equation in choosing the form of an appropriate trial function. A good analytic approximation connecting applied force, friction, and the resulting solitary-wave velocity for a specific transport problem, as well as the exact numerical solution, is given. In addition, an exact functional relationship between applied force, friction, and velocity for a general transport problem is demonstrated.
Interpersonal, Intragroup Conflict between Southern Baptist Pastors: A Qualitative Inquiry Examining Contributing Factors

This ethnographic examination examines interpersonal, intragroup conflict between Southern Baptist pastors in the USA with a focus on the factors that contribute to such conflict. First, literature is provided to demonstrate the history of the denomination, reasons for relational intragroup conflict between pastors working together in the same churches, and information on the prevalence and instances of interpersonal conflict. Second, this study employs qualitative research methods, namely in-depth interviewing and participant observation. Through engaging in interviews with the participants, statements were elicited from six Southern Baptist pastors (Pastors #1, #2, and #3, and Outside Baptist Pastors #1, #2, and #3) on the nature, reasons, and prevalence of such conflict between Southern Baptist pastoral leaders. As the sources of such conflict are diverse (i.e., historical events, spiritual reasons, organizational conflict, interpersonal differences, etc.), I argue that qualitatively analyzing and reporting on this subject is of value to scholars of ethnographic research and interpersonal communication in the religious and spiritual realms. Furthermore, since the consequences of conflict can be severe (i.e., forced pastoral terminations, damaged churches, failed spiritual missions, etc.), this study is important as it examines matters that give rise to conflicts. Finally, areas for future research are addressed.
Simultaneous left ventricular and ascending aortic pressure measurements via single artery access for assessment of aortic stenosis.

In order to determine the reliability of a single arterial access technique for hemodynamic assessment of aortic stenosis, data obtained from this method was compared with that from dual arterial access in 13 patients. A 59 cm long, 8 Fr. Mullins Transseptal Sheath (MTS) was placed in the ascending aorta (AA) and a 5 Fr. pigtail catheter advanced through the MTS (using a hemostatic "Y" adapter) into the left ventricle for simultaneous pressure recordings. Another 5 Fr. pigtail catheter (PTC) was advanced in the AA from the contralateral femoral artery. Peak pressures, AA pressure-tracing characteristics, mean gradients, and the aortic valve area using tracings from the MTS and the PTC were compared. Peak pressures 120 +/- 8 vs. 119 +/- 8 mmHg (r = .998), "T" time .16 +/- .01 vs. .15 +/- .01 sec. (r = .913), "U" time .36 +/- .02 vs. .36 +/- .02 sec. (r = .983), mean gradients 38.4 +/- 6.1 vs. 39.6 +/- 6.9 mmHg (r = .990) and the AV area .78 +/- .08 vs. 79 +/- .08 cm2 (r = .994) were similar. Therefore, this single arterial technique provides data comparable to the traditional dual access system for hemodynamic assessment of aortic stenosis.
Fuzzy engrams, features, frequency and multiplex coding; how the human brain makes decisions in fuzzy space time with the biology of synaptopoeisis

We have previously described the fuzzy space time of cortical computation as the doubling unit square with 10 fold doublings being the limit of one cycle of time after which the curvature swept out by the sequence of 90 degree sweeps of the square diagonal ceases. This limit of 10 is the same limit of symmetry breaking between two fuzzy sets as points in a unit hypercube first defined by us as the measure “K”, and as shown by cellular automata. This same doubling allows the fuzzy entropy of each fuzzy set to decrease by the least amount and new fuzzy sets to be added as new inflow of information from incoming signals from sensory nervous input. We now present an anatomical and physiologic correlate of fuzzy cortical computation for conscious perception. The importance of this discovery is that it allows for a lucid explanation of human perception based on the juxtaposition, synthesis and contrasting, of incoming sensory data with the least amount of degradation of the real world. This contrasts with the concept that human decision making is replaceable with probability driven perception. Crisp representation of the real world matches that world least..
SHEAR ELASTICITY AND VISCOSITY IN COLLOIDAL CRYSTALS AND LIQUIDS

We have measured the shear elastic constants of colloidal crystals using a standing cylindrical resonance technique and the viscosity with a variety of rheometers. The elastic constants are well described by Debye-Huckel theory with a renormalized charge. The crystals melt upon addition of electrolyte and the resulting liquid has a viscosity which is strongly dependent upon the electrostatic interactions between the charged colloids. Extrapolation of the elastic constants into the liquid regime, together with a phenomenological relaxation time, allow us to predict the viscosity of the liquid. We also observe a transition from solid to liquid, "shear melting", upon application of sufficiently high stress. This transition is accompanied by an increase in viscosity in going from solid to liquid.
Assessment of Oxidative Metabolism in Brown Fat Using PET Imaging

Objective: Although it has been believed that brown adipose tissue (BAT) depots disappear shortly after the perinatal period in humans, PET imaging using the glucose analog FDG has shown unequivocally the existence of functional BAT in humans. The objective of this study was to determine, using dynamic oxygen-15 (15O) PET imaging, to what extent BAT thermogenesis is activated in adults during cold stress and to establish the relationship between BAT oxidative metabolism and FDG tracer uptake. Methods: Fourteen adult normal subjects (9F/5M, 30+7 years) underwent triple oxygen scans (H215O, C15O, 15O2) as well as indirect calorimetric measurements at rest and following exposure to mild cold (60F). Subjects were divided into two groups (BAT+ and BAT-) based on the presence or absence of FDG tracer uptake (SUV > 2) in supraclavicular BAT. Blood flow (BF) and oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) was calculated from dynamic PET scans at the location of BAT, muscle and white adipose tissue (WAT). The metabolic rate of oxygen (MRO2) in BAT was determined and used to calculate the contribution of activated BAT to daily energy expenditure (DEE). Results: The median mass of activated BAT in the BAT+ group (5F, 31+8yrs) was 52.4 g (14-68g) and was 1.7 g (0-6.3g) in the BAT- group (5M/4F, 29+6yrs). SUV values were significantly higher in the BAT+ as compared to the BAT- group (7.4+3.7 vs 1.9+0.9; p=0.03). BF values in BAT were significantly higher in the BAT+ as compared to the BAT- group (13.1+4.4 vs 5.7+1.1 ml/100g/min, p=0.03), but were similar in WAT (4.1+1.6 vs 4.2+1.8 ml/100g/min) and muscle (3.7+0.8 vs 3.3+1.2 ml/100g/min). Calculated MRO2 values in BAT increased from 0.95+0.74 to 1.62+0.82 ml/100g/min in the BAT+ group and were significantly higher than those determined in the BAT- group (0.43+0.27 vs 0.56+0.24; p=0.67). The DEE associated with BAT oxidative metabolism was highly variable in the BAT+ group, with an average of 5.5+6.4 kcal/day (range 0.57–15.3 kcal/day).
Permanent atrial standstill: the clinical spectrum.

Abstract Permanent atrial standstill appears to be an arrhythmia that develops because of extensive myocardial disruption. It has been noted in three clinical settings: in patients with long-standing cardiac disease, in patients with neuromuscular disease and in otherwise healthy people who present with vertigo, syncope or stroke. A patient with this arrhythmia and limbgirdle muscular dystrophy is presented.
The AB-180 circulatory support system : Summary of development and plans for phase I clinical trial

Abstract Background . The AB-180 circulatory support system is a small, durable, efficient centrifugal pump with low thrombogenic potential. The device was designed to provide a fully implantable, left ventricular assist system for short-term support to address the issues of systemic anticoagulation, thrombus formation, infection, and cost. Methods . Extensive bench and animal studies were performed to validate the mechanical integrity of the device and its functionality as an implant. Results . These studies demonstrated anticoagulation requirements, established operating guidelines, incorporated safety systems, and demonstrated safety and efficacy. Conclusions . The AB-180 fulfills the stated goals on initial evaluation. A phase I human trial is underway.
Setting Quality Standards for Web-Based Continuing Medical Education.

Continuing medical education (CME) on the Internet has grown steadily over the past several years. However, the quality of Web-based CME has received limited attention in the medical literature, and there have been few attempts to articulate quality standards. This article describes five sets of standards published in the distance education literature and explores whether the standards might be used to inform and enhance approaches to designing and delivering Web-based CME programs. Standards synthesize practical knowledge, best practices, and research findings. They vary in their perspectives on quality, fall short of being comprehensive, and convey many elements that apply to Web CME. We conclude that published standards in the distance education literature can provide valuable guidance to Web CME providers, and there is a clear need for additional research into questions about what works in Web-based education and why.
Implementation of shift-invariant flow graphs on clock-skewed parallel processing system

A parallel processing system, called the clock-skewed parallel processing system, is proposed. This system uses one or more shared buses as the basic interconnection network between processors, and a fixed amount of clock-skew is maintained between the processing elements. The system can not only handle the interprocessor communications very efficiently, but can explicitly incorporate the interprocessor communication delay into the parallel scheduling model. An efficient scheduling strategy for implementing shift-invariant flow graphs on the system is presented. >
Post-weaning maternal effects and the evolution of female dominance in the spotted hyena

Mammalian societies in which females dominate males are rare, and the factors favouring the evolution of female dominance have yet to be clearly identified. We propose a new hypothesis for the evolution of female dominance and test its predictions with empirical data from the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), a well-studied species characterized by female dominance. We suggest that constraints imposed by the development of a feeding apparatus specialized for bone cracking, in combination with the intensive feeding competition characteristic of spotted hyenas, led to the evolution of female dominance. Specifically, we propose that protracted development of the feeding apparatus in young hyenas led to selection for increased aggressiveness in females as a compensatory mechanism for mothers to secure food access for their young after weaning. Our analyses yielded results consistent with this hypothesis. Morphological and behavioural measurements indicate that skull development is indeed protracted in this species; spotted hyenas do not achieve adult skull size or feeding performance capabilities until after sexual maturity. The period between weaning and completed skull development is particularly challenging, as indicated by high mortality. Finally, maternal presence between weaning and full skull maturity, as well as the relative ability of females to aggressively displace conspecifics from food, are important determinants of offspring survival.
Observations on the Functions of Voluntary Associations, with Special Reference to West African Cities

The author cites examples of West African voluntary associations (VAs) and discusses the various expressive and instrumental benefits they provide for participants. In categorizing the groups, he treats expressive and instrumental orientations as two separate and variable dimensions. Accordingly, every VA has a value, either high or low, on each dimension. The author offers propositions and empirical evidence regarding the frequency of occurrence and the general nature of the four types of VAs thus generated. Finally, he suggests that these propositions would also apply to social movement organizations, and calls for more efforts to synthesize findings from a number of related areas.
A Markov Reward Model for Software Reliability

A compositional method for estimating software reliability of many threaded programs is developed. The method uses estimates of the reliability of individual modules and the probability of transitions between the modules to estimate the reliability of a program in terms of its current state. The reliability of a program is expressed using iLTL, a probabilistic linear temporal logic whose atomic propositions are linear inequalities about transitions of the probability mass function of a discrete time Markov chain. We then use a Markov reward model to estimate software reliability. The technique is illustrated in terms of an example.