cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Challenges, Advances, and the Need for Biomarkers of Relevance to Public Health

Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the most strongly genetic of all complex neuropsychiatric disorders, it is still defined and diagnosed behaviorally. The vast genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity of the condition necessitate a vigorous search for biological markers capable of aiding in diagnosis, identifying more homogeneous subgroups for biological study, individualizing treatment, and measuring treatment response. Many candidate biomarkers are available, spanning genetic, metabolic, electroencephalographic, magnetic resonance imaging, and neuropsychological methods. Although biomarker research has focused primarily on mechanistic etiologic hypotheses, the biomarkers more likely to result in optimized clinical outcomes in the near term are cost-effective and community-viable measures obtained through eye-tracking technology involving infants and toddlers. Although these tools are still far from being ready for widespread application, the goal is to develop objective procedures and measures for population-based screening and diagnosis to increase access to early treatment and intervention.
Transfer pricing in complex organizations: a review and integration of recent empirical and analytical research

Transfer pricing literature can be categorized according to the type of model employed and whether it is analytical or empirical. The major models are economic [based on Hirshleifer, 1956]; mathematical programming [Dopuch and Drake, 1964]; and behavioural [Watson and Baumler, 1975]. The objective of this paper is to review the recent literature (1974–1983) on transfer pricing and to try to discern future directions and possibilities for research. In particular, research relating to the major theoretical models (economic, mathematical programming, and behavioural) and other more ad hoc approaches is integrated with the empirical research on transfer pricing practices. In addition, the behavioural and organizational implications of transfer pricing are addressed with respect to the issues of organizational optimization, and integration and differentiation.
Physics of Thin Film Formation in Microchannels: New Physical Insights and Governing Correlations

Thin film evaporation is a prominent mechanism of heat transfer in the microchannel flow boiling process, and numerous studies have attempted to predict its contribution to the overall surface heat transfer. In this study, a novel experimental platform capable of producing microscale data with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolutions is utilized to determine the liquid film thickness formed around an elongated bubble. A model is developed to accurately predict surface heat transfer during the thin film evaporation process. First, it is shown that thin film formation and evaporation can be represented in two stages: 1) adiabatic formation of the liquid layer followed by 2) thermal development and evaporation of the liquid film. It is then explained how the liquid layer thickness is affected by the flow parameters.
Burnout and gender in surgical training: A call to re-evaluate coping and dysfunction.

Abstract Background Physicians experience burnout and mental illness at significantly higher rates than the general population, with sequelae that negatively affect providers, patients, and the healthcare system at large. Gender is rarely considered in characterizing the problem or vetting interventions. Methods Using data from a recent national survey and a longitudinal pilot study of general surgery residents, we examined gender variation in burnout and distress. Results In the national survey, male residents had higher depersonalization and female residents had higher alcohol misuse, with a significant association between alcohol misuse, high depersonalization and low anxiety not seen in males. In the longitudinal pilot study, males’ burnout scores were higher and had a greater contribution from depersonalization. Both males and females had increasing prevalence of high depersonalization over the intern year. Conclusions Residency affects males and females differently in ways that merit further investigation and better understanding to effectively address burnout and distress.
Synchronization strings: highly efficient deterministic constructions over small alphabets

Synchronization strings are recently introduced by Haeupler and Shahrasbi [1] in the study of codes for correcting insertion and deletion errors (insdel codes). A synchronization string is an encoding of the indices of the symbols in a string, and together with an appropriate decoding algorithm it can transform insertion and deletion errors into standard symbol erasures and corruptions. This reduces the problem of constructing insdel codes to the problem of constructing standard error correcting codes, which is much better understood. Besides this, synchronization strings are also useful in other applications such as synchronization sequences and interactive coding schemes. For all such applications, synchronization strings are desired to be over alphabets that are as small as possible, since a larger alphabet size corresponds to more redundant information added.Haeupler and Shahrasbi [1] showed that for any parameter e > 0, synchronization strings of arbitrary length exist over an alphabet whose size depends only on e. Specifically, [1] obtained an alphabet size of O(e−4), which left an open question on where the minimal size of such alphabets lies between Ω(e-1) and O(e-4). In this work, we partially bridge this gap by providing an improved lower bound of Ω(e-3/2), and an improved upper bound of O (e-2). We also provide fast explicit constructions of synchronization strings over small alphabets.Further, along the lines of previous work on similar combinatorial objects, we study the extremal question of the smallest possible alphabet size over which synchronization strings can exist for some constant e
Characterizing a high resolution color display performance using a Prichard photometer

Measuring the performance of a cathode ray tube (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD) is necessary to enable end-to-end system modeling and characterization of currently used high performance analog imaging systems, such as 2nd Generation FLIR systems. If the display is color, the performance measurements are made more difficult because of the underlying structure of the color pixel as compared to a monochrome pixel. Out of the various characteristics of interest, we focus on determining the gamma value of a display. Gamma quantifies the non-linear response between the input gray scale and the displayed luminance. If the displayed image can be corrected for the display’s gamma, an accurate scene can be presented or characterized for laboratory measurements such as MRT (Minimum Resolvable Temperature) and CTF (Contrast Threshold Function). In this paper, we present a method to determine the gamma to characterize a color display using the Prichard 1980A photometer. Gamma corrections were applied to the test images for validating the accuracy of the computed gamma value. The method presented here is a simple one easily implemented employing a Prichard photometer.
Evaluation of hydrogen production cost in different real case studies

Abstract Use of hydrogen and production are issues of wide interest while just room towards aspects relevant to hydrogen economy now is lacking. This paper deals with an estimate of the hydrogen production cost in a solar-powered hydrogen refueling station for smart cities applications in the site of Capo d’Orlando in Sicily considering design, building, characterization and operation. A cost analysis done shows economic and environmental benefits relevant to exploitation of the facility. The analysis deals with a comparison of data relevant to costs of hydrogen produced by water electrolysis derived from three different case-study; namely: Hydrogen production by using only the electric energy coming from the main grid, Hydrogen production by using electric energy from a photovoltaic plant grid-connected, Hydrogen production by using electric energy coming from integration of photovoltaic plant grid connected with an electric storage system. The hydrogen and electric energy refueling station is a demonstration experimental facility belonging to the Italian research project i-NEXT (innovation for greeN Energy and eXchange in Transportation). CNR-ITAE jointly with industrial partners developed in the framework of the Italian research project i-NEXT a demonstration on-site hydrogen production plant at Capo d’Orlando in Sicily. The hydrogen production plant is connected to a microgrid fed by means of a 100 kW photovoltaic plant installed on rooftop; it is connected with a facility of 300 kW h battery electric energy storage (made up by 16 high temperature batteries sodium nickel chloride).So, the plant is able to provide hydrogen and electric energy for an electric and hydrogen vehicles fleet. The hydrogen refueling station consists of four sections: the module of electrolysis hydrogen production section (HPPS), able to produce, by means of a 30 kWh alkaline electrolyser, 6.64 Nm3/h of hydrogen with a gas purity of 99.995% (O2
Effects of bentonite on physical, mechanical and barrier properties of cellulose nanofibril hybrid films for packaging applications

There is an increasing attention to cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) for food packaging applications due to their abundance, biodegradability, and low gas permeability. In this work, oxygen and water barrier performance is studied for bio-nanocomposite films formed by incorporation of two types of bentonite (PGN and PGV) at different loads (15, 30 and 45 wt%) into continuous CNF matrix. The resulting hybrid films were analyzed for their morphology, surface energy, mechanical strengths as well as water/oxygen barrier qualities. Both types of bentonite lowered the CNF degradation temperature and strength to some degree for reasons not so clear but perhaps due to partial disruption of the CNF H-bond network. It was revealed from microscopic study that clay particles form a layer within cellulose chains, resulting in alteration of composite structure. The contact angle analysis by polar and nonpolar liquids, suggested the PGN-containing samples were more hydrophilic; clay induced polar functionalities to the composite. While 15% PGN load reduced the water vapor transmission rate from 425 to 375 g/m2 day, higher proportions of bentonite negatively affected this trend. Also, analysis of oxygen transmission rate showed the PGN effectively restricted the oxygen passage in dry state and to a lower extent at higher relative humidity. In WVTR analysis, PGN showed a superior performance over PGV attributable to its crystalline structure as evident in XRD patterns. The proposed hybrid CNF-BNT films in this study can present an eco-friendly alternative in packaging materials, especially where penetration of water vapor and oxygen is to be avoided.
Acquired amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia as a rare cause of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy

A rare case of acquired amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia (AATP) in a 35-year-old woman who presented with anaemia and thrombocytopenia at 22 weeks gestation. The first diagnostic impression was of an evolving aplastic anaemia; however, the patient was simultaneously diagnosed with severe vitamin B12 deficiency in the setting of vegetarianism. Once the cyanocobalamin deficiency was corrected, a repeat bone marrow biopsy revealed an isolated depletion of megakaryocytes, which suggested the diagnosis of AATP. Supportive care was provided for her anaemia and thrombocytopenia and she delivered a healthy baby girl with a normal platelet count. The patient was subsequently started on romiplostim with steady improvement in her platelet counts. This rare AATP case presentation highlights the importance of a well-structured diagnostic approach to thrombocytopenia during pregnancy and supports the successful use of thrombopoietin agonists for the management of AATP.
The promise of Bourdieusian political sociology David Swartz. Symbolic Power, Politics, and Intellectuals: The Political Sociology of Pierre Bourdieu. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2013

This essay provides an analytical review of David Swartz’s book on Bourdieu’s political sociology. I argue that among its many virtues, the book presents Bourdieu’s ideas in an accessible and synthetic manner, adding clarity to what is a complex and often contradictory theoretical system. In addition to assessing the book’s contributions, I draw inspiration from Swartz’s work to point out some of the limitations of the Bourdieusian perspective and identify promising avenues for the further elaboration of this approach through empirical research.
Adaptive Resonance Theory in the time scales calculus

Abstract Engineering applications of algorithms based on Adaptive Resonance Theory have proven to be fast, reliable, and scalable solutions to modern industrial machine learning problems. A key emerging area of research is in the combination of different kinds of inputs within a single learning architecture along with ensuring the systems have the capacity for lifelong learning. We establish a dynamic equation model of ART in the time scales calculus capable of handling inputs in such mixed domains. We prove theorems establishing that the orienting subsystem can affect learning in the long-term memory storage unit as well as that those remembered exemplars result in stable categories. Further, we contribute to the mathematics of time scales literature itself with novel takes on logic functions in the calculus as well as new representations for the action of weight matrices in generalized domains. Our work extends the core ART theory and algorithms to these important mixed input domains and provides the theoretical foundation for further extensions of ART-based learning strategies for applied engineering work.
Task Scheduling with Nonlinear Costs using SMT Solvers

There are many natural and engineering processes which require scheduling under nonlinear cost functions. Current tools and theories only support scheduling under linear cost functions. In this paper, we model the scheduling problem under nonlinear costs using Priced Timed Automata (PTA). We also present a translation from PTA to Satisfiability Modulo Theory (SMT) formulas whose models correspond to schedules which satisfy the scheduling constraints under a given cost bound. We present a case-study for batch scheduling in bio-manufacturing. We compare our results with UPPAAL CORA when the costs are linear. We show that the SMT based solution outperforms the UPPAAL CORA solver when the length of the schedule is bounded.
Insights revealed by the co-crystal structure of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae histidine phosphotransfer protein Ypd1 and the receiver domain of its downstream response regulator Ssk1.

Two-component signaling systems are the primary means by which bacteria, archaea, and certain plants and fungi react to their environments. The model yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, uses the Sln1 signaling pathway to respond to hyperosmotic stress. This pathway contains a hybrid histidine kinase (Sln1) that autophosphorylates and transfers a phosphoryl group to its own receiver domain (R1). The phosphoryl group is then transferred to a histidine phosphotransfer protein (Ypd1) that finally passes it to the receiver domain (R2) of a downstream response regulator (Ssk1). Under normal conditions, Ssk1 is constitutively and preferentially phosphorylated in the phosphorelay. Upon detecting hyperosmotic stress, Ssk1 rapidly dephosphorylates and activates the high-osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway, initiating a response. Despite their distinct physiological roles, both Sln1 and Ssk1 bind to Ypd1 at a common docking site. Co-crystal structures of response regulators in complex with their phosphorelay partners are scarce, leaving many mechanistic and structural details uncharacterized for systems like the Sln1 pathway. In this work, we present the co-crystal structure of Ypd1 and a near wild-type variant of the receiver domain of Ssk1 (Ssk1-R2-W638A) at a resolution of 2.80 A. Our structural analyses of Ypd1-receiver domain complexes, biochemical determination of binding affinities for Ssk1-R2 variants, in silico free energy estimates, and sequence comparisons reveal distinctive electrostatic properties of the Ypd1/Ssk1-R2-W638A complex that may provide insight into the regulation of the Sln1 pathway as a function of dynamic osmolyte concentration.
Evaluation of telepharmacy and the use of a gravimetric technology-assisted workflow system for remote sterile product pharmacist checks.

PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of remote sterile product pharmacist checks when used with a gravimetric-based technology-assisted workflow (TAWF) system on product checking accuracy, pharmacist review time, workload sharing, cost savings, and staff perceptions. METHODS A double-arm, prospective study was conducted at 4 pharmacy locations for a 90-day period. Each compounded sterile product (CSP) checked by a remote pharmacist was also checked by a local pharmacist at the site of CSP preparation. An anonymous, online survey was emailed to staff before and after implementation to evaluate perceptions of the accuracy, timeliness, safety, potential impact, and value of the remote process. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in the numbers of errors detected through the remote process and through the current, nonremote process (P = 0.177). The median pharmacist review time in the local process was significantly lower (P < 0.001). Remote pharmacists in the study workflow verified 30.4% of the total number of CSPs verified in the 90-day period. Annualized cost savings were calculated to be $23,770.08. Percent agreement increased from the preimplementation to the postimplementation period for survey questions about the safety of the remote process, opportunity for workload sharing, and optimization of current workflow. Percent agreement decreased for questions about the accuracy, timeliness, and value of the remote process and its impact on job security. CONCLUSION The study demonstrated that with use of a gravimetric-based TAWF system, there was no difference in the accuracy and safety of sterile product pharmacist checks performed remotely and those performed at the product preparation site. In addition, the remote process allows for opportunities for workload sharing and cost savings.
Solid-State Recrystallization Pathways of Sodium Aluminate Hydroxy Hydrates

Crystallization of Al3+-bearing solid phases from highly alkaline Na2O:Al2O3:H2O solutions commonly necessitates an Al3+ coordination change from tetrahedral to octahedral, but intermediate coordination states are often difficult to isolate. Here, a similar Al3+ coordination change process is examined during the solid-state recrystallization of monosodium aluminate hydrate (MSA) to nonasodium bis(hexahydroxyaluminate) trihydroxide hexahydrate (NSA) at ambient temperature. While the MSA structure contains solely oxolated tetrahedral Al3+, the NSA structure is a molecular aluminate salt solely based upon monomeric octahedral Al3+. Spontaneous recrystallization of MSA and excess sodium hydroxide hydrate into NSA over 3 days of reaction time was clearly evident in X-ray diffractograms and in Raman spectra. In situ single-pulse 27Al magic angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and 27Al multiple quantum (MQ) MAS NMR spectroscopy showed no evidence of intermediate aluminates, suggesting that transitional states, such as pentacoordinate Al3+, are short-lived and require spectroscopy with greater time resolution to detect. Such research is advancing upon a detailed mechanistic understanding of Al3+ coordination change mechanisms in these highly alkaline systems, with relevance to aluminum refining, corrosion sciences, and nuclear waste processing.
Analysis of field survey results of iodine deficiency disorders in high-risk areas of Fujian province in 2010

Objective To investigate the occurrence of new cretinism cases and the prevalence of endemic goiter in iodine deficiency disorders(IDD) high-risk areas of Fujian province,so as to put forward target prevention and control measures for these areas.Methods Twelve counties from Xiuyu,Xiangan,Pingtan,and Dongshan were chosen into the survey by simple random sampling,searching for new cretinism cases were carried out in children under 10 years old.Two schools were chosen in every county and the thyroid volume of forty children aged 8 - 10 were determined by B-ultrasonography methods and their urinary iodine(UI) was determined by As3--Ce4+catalytic spectrophotometry in each school.Twenty women of child-bearing age aged 18 - 40 were chosen for collecting edible salt and urine samples,and the salt iodine content was determined using self-quantitative kit and their UI was also determined by As3--Ce4+ catalytic spectrophotometry.Results In the 4 high-risk counties,no cretinism cases were found.The goiter rate of children aged 8 - 10 was 3.6％(37/1027),and that in Dongshan county was 5.4％(13/240),which was higher than the national standards for eliminating IDD( ＜ 5％).The median urinary iodine(MUI) of children aged 8 - 10 was 175.3 μg/L,and the MUI of women aged 18 -40 was 152.7 μg/L.The coverage rate of iodized salt was 82.7％(382/462).Conclusions New case or suspected new case of cretinism is not discovered in the high-risk areas of IDD of Fujian province,and median urinary iodine level of people is in the adequate range. Key words: Iodine; Deficiency diseases; Goiter, endemic
On certain degenerate and singular elliptic PDEs III: Nondivergence form operators and RH ∞ -weights

Abstract A Harnack inequality is proved for nonnegative strong solutions to certain second-order elliptic PDEs with rough coefficients whose degeneracies/singularities are shaped by weights in the reverse-Holder class R H ∞ . Such operators include subelliptic Grushin and Grushin-like PDEs with unbounded first-order terms.
Impact of multidisciplinary severe immunotherapy complication service on outcomes for cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibition.

2654Background: The exponential increase in FDA-approved indications for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in cancer care has resulted in therapeutic success but also in the occurrence of immune-r...
Spinal Epidural Abscess Patients Have Higher Modified Frailty Indexes Than Back Pain Patients on Emergency Room Presentation: A Single-Center Retrospective Case-Control Study.

Objective Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) patients have increased medical comorbidities and risk factors for infection compared with those without SEA. However, the association between frailty and SEA patients has not been documented. Methods A total of 46 SEA patients were randomly paired and matched by age and sex with a control group of patients with back pain who had presented to our emergency department from 2012 to 2017. Statistical analysis identified the risk factors associated with SEA and frailty using the modified frailty index (mFI), and the patients were stratified into robust, prefrail, and frail groups. We examined the value of the mFI as a prognostic predictor and evaluated the classic risk factors (CRFs). Results The SEA patients had higher mFIs and CRFs (P = 0.023 and P 2) was the strongest risk factor for SEA (OR, 5.18; P = 0.003). A robust ranking (mFI, 0–1) was a weak negative predictor for SEA (OR, 0.41; P = 0.058). The robust patients were also more likely to be discharged to home (OR, 7.58; P = 0.002). Of the CRF variables, only intravenous drug use had a statistically significant association with SEA (OR, 10.72; P = 0.015). Conclusions Patients with SEA were more frail compared with the control back pain patients. Frailty was determined to be an independent risk factor for SEA, outside of the CRFs. The use of the mFI could be potentially useful in predicting the diagnosis, prognosticating, and guiding SEA treatment.
A Hybrid Gröbner bases approach to computing power integral bases

Bettale, Faugere, and Perret [3] present and analyze a hybrid method for solving multivariate polynomial systems over finite fields that mixes Grobner bases computations with an exhaustive search. Inspired by their method, we use a hybrid approach to characterize all power integral bases in the pth cyclotomic field \({\mathbb{Q}(\zeta_p)}\) for the regular primes p = 29, 31, 41. For each prime p this involves solving a system of (p−1)/2 multivariate polynomial equations of degree (p−1)/2 in (p−1)/2 variables over the finite field \({\mathbb{Z}/p\mathbb{Z}}\).
k-zero day safety: measuring the security risk of networks against unknown attacks

The security risk of a network against unknown zero day attacks has been considered as something unmeasurable since software flaws are less predictable than hardware faults and the process of finding such flaws and developing exploits seems to be chaotic [10]. In this paper, we propose a novel security metric, k-zero day safety, based on the number of unknown zero day vulnerabilities. That is, the metric simply counts how many unknown vulnerabilities would be required for compromising a network asset, regardless of what vulnerabilities those might be. We formally define the metric based on an abstract model of networks and attacks. We then devise algorithms for computing the metric. Finally, we show the metric can quantify many existing practices in hardening a network.
A brain extracellular matrix proteoglycan forms aggregates with hyaluronan.

Unlike many tissues, the adult central nervous system extracellular matrix (ECM) has few known components. Previously, we characterized a large chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, pgT1, from adult rat brain which has the properties of a general brain ECM component and is immunologically distinct from aggrecan and versican (Iwata, M., and Carlson, S.S. (1993) J. Neurosci. 13, 195-207). In this study we demonstrate that pgT1 binds hyaluronan with relatively high affinity. The pgT1 preparation isolated from rat brain aggregates in non-denaturing conditions. This aggregation is abolished by incubation of pgT1 with Streptomyces hyaluronidase. Examination of these aggregates by electron microscope reveals a structure in which an average of 18 subunits arise laterally from opposite sides of an elongated 350-nm filament. These pgT1 aggregates resemble the proteoglycan aggregates in cartilage which are composed of aggrecan and hyaluronan. Using affinity coelectrophoresis, we measure a dissociation constant (Kd) of 0.9 +/- 0.2 nM for the interaction of pgT1 and hyaluronan. These new findings, combined with the general distribution of pgT1 in brain, suggest that pgT1/hyaluronan aggregates are an extended general structure of the brain extracellular matrix network.
Wait-Free Synchronization in Quantum-Based Multiprogrammed Systems

We consider wait-free synchronization in multiprogrammed uniprocessor and multiprocessor systems in which the processes bound to each processor are scheduled for execution using a scheduling quantum. We show that, in such systems, any object with consensus number P in Herlihy's wait-free hierarchy is universal for any number of processes executing on P processors, provided the scheduling quantum is of a certain size. We give an asymptotically tight characterization of how large the scheduling quantum must be for this result to hold.
Identification of a new gene, tmoF, in the Pseudomonas mendocina KR1 gene cluster encoding toluene-4-monooxygenase.

Abstract Five genes, tmoABCDE, encoding toluene-4-monooxygenase (T4MO) were previously mapped to a 3.6-kb region of a 10.2-kb SacI DNA fragment isolated from Pseudomonas mendocina KR1 (K.-M. Yen, M. R. Karl, L. M. Blatt, M. J. Simon, R. B. Winter, P. R. Fausset, H. S. Lu, A. A. Harcourt, and K. K. Chen, J. Bacteriol. 173:5315-5327, 1991). In this report, we describe the identification and characterization of a DNA region in the SacI fragment whose expression enhances the T4MO activity determined by the tmoABCDE gene cluster. This region was mapped immediately downstream of the putative transcription termination sequence previously located at the end of the tmoABCDE gene cluster (Yen et al., J. Bacteriol., 1991) and was found to stimulate T4MO activity two- to threefold when expressed in Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas putida. Determination of the nucleotide sequence of this region revealed an open reading frame (ORF) of 978 bp. Expression of the ORF resulted in the synthesis of an approximately 37-kDa polypeptide whose N-terminal amino acid sequence completely matched that of the product predicted from the ORF. The ORF thus defines a gene, which has now been designated tmoF. The TmoF protein shares amino acid sequence homology with the reductases of several mono- and dioxygenase systems. In addition, the reductase component of the naphthalene dioxygenase system, encoded by the nahAa gene of plasmid NAH7 from P. putida G7, could largely replace the TmoF protein in stimulating T4MO activity, and TmoF could partially replace the NahAa protein in forming active naphthalene dioxygenase. The overall properties of tmoF suggest that it is a member of the T4mo gene cluster and encodes the NADH:ferredoxin oxidoreductase of the T4MO system.
Negotiating Gender: Campaign Practitioners’ Reflections on Gender, Strategy, and Campaigns

From Mark Penn’s aversion to Hillary Clinton running “as a woman” to the McCain campaign’s marketing of Sarah Palin, the 2008 presidential campaign pointed out both the importance of gender and the influential role of campaign advisors in drafting campaigns’ images, messages, and tactics. More importantly, it demonstrated that these two factors are inextricably linked, whereby practitioners’ perceptions and understanding of how gender operates in campaigns influences to what extent and in what ways gender functions in campaign strategy. To investigate this link, I field a survey of active campaign consultants to probe practitioners about gender stereotypes, identity, and campaign strategy. In this paper, I explore the variation among and between consultant perspectives, highlighting areas where gender matters more or less and recognizing the influence of consultants’ identities on their perceptions of gender and campaigns. As political actors with a growing presence and influence on campaigns, political consultants provide important insight to the campaign process and the gender dynamics therein. This insight contributes to a deeper understanding of campaigns as gendered institutions, whereby gender norms and expectations are embedded in the culture, structure, and processes of electoral politics.
Induction of the mammalian stress response gene GADD153 by oxidative stress: role of AP-1 element.

#d), hydrogenperoxide (H#O#) and hydroxyl radicals (HOd), are ubiquitouslyproducedinthecourseofaerobicmetabolismandareaconstantthreat to cellular function. Toxins, carcinogens and environ-mental agents can both contribute to ROI production andcompromise antioxidant defences. Further, exogenous agentscan mediate oxidative injury through direct chemical interactionwith cellular components, e.g. protein thiol modiﬁcation bythiol-reactive agents. When the generation of ROI and otheroxidizing species exceeds the cellular capacity for detoxication,oxidative stress results and damage to DNA, proteins and lipidsensues.The mechanisms controlling the cellular response to oxidativestresshavebeenextensivelyinvestigatedat themolecularlevelinbacterial systems, where the OxyR and SoxR}S regulons havebeen shown to co-ordinately regulate the induction of genes byROI (reviewed in ref. [3]). Similarly, transcription factors havebeen identiﬁed that probably mediate the oxidative stress re-sponse in yeast, including yAP-1 and yAP-2 (which havehomology with mammalian AP-1), and Mac-1 (reviewed in ref[4]).Inmammaliansystems,numerousgeneshavebeenshowntobe responsive to oxidants, although a systematic mechanism forgene regulation by oxidative stress has not been elucidated.
A longitudinal study of total body potassium in normal breastfed and bottle-fed infants.

Extract: In a previous publication we predicted that growth as measured by 40K is best described by comparison of the semilog function of total body potassium (TBK) vs. length with a slope that differs in infants from that of children aged 3–18 years. Data for 84 infants having three or more measurements during the first year of life attest to this hypothesis, with a regression line for TBK and length: loge K, g = −;0.265 + 0.04112 length in centimeters. Speculation: The increasing rate of 40K accumulation between birth and the age of 1–2 years is compatible with the hypothesis that changes of body composition from that of the neonate to that of the adult is a steady process and that it is completed by the time the infant reaches a length of about 90 cm. This process is independent of sex and initial feeding within the conditions of this study. Further methodology refinements will be needed to determine the events occurring in low birth weight infants. The role of protein-calorie malnutrition in this process warrants study.
The nucleotide exchange factor Ric-8A is a chaperone for the conformationally dynamic nucleotide-free state of Gαi1.

Heterotrimeric G protein α subunits are activated upon exchange of GDP for GTP at the nucleotide binding site of Gα, catalyzed by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). In addition to transmembrane G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which act on G protein heterotrimers, members of the family cytosolic proteins typified by mammalian Ric-8A are GEFs for Gi/q/12/13-class Gα subunits. Ric-8A binds to Gα•GDP, resulting in the release of GDP. The Ric-8A complex with nucleotide-free Gαi1 is stable, but dissociates upon binding of GTP to Gαi1. To gain insight into the mechanism of Ric-8A-catalyzed GDP release from Gαi1, experiments were conducted to characterize the physical state of nucleotide-free Gαi1 (hereafter referred to as Gαi1[ ]) in solution, both as a monomeric species, and in the complex with Ric-8A. We found that Ric-8A-bound, nucleotide-free Gαi1 is more accessible to trypsinolysis than Gαi1•GDP, but less so than Gαi1[ ] alone. The TROSY-HSQC spectrum of [15N]Gαi1[ ] bound to Ric-8A shows considerable loss of peak intensity relative to that of [15N]Gαi1•GDP. Hydrogen-deuterium exchange in Gαi1[ ] bound to Ric-8A is 1.5-fold more extensive than in Gαi1•GDP. Differential scanning calorimetry shows that both Ric-8A and Gαi1•GDP undergo cooperative, irreversible unfolding transitions at 47° and 52°, respectively, while nucleotide-free Gαi1 shows a broad, weak transition near 35°. The unfolding transition for Ric-8A:Gαi1[ ] is complex, with a broad transition that peaks at 50°, suggesting that both Ric-8A and Gαi1[ ] are stabilized within the complex, relative to their respective free states. The C-terminus of Gαi1 is shown to be a critical binding element for Ric-8A, as is also the case for GPCRs, suggesting that the two types of GEF might promote nucleotide exchange by similar mechanisms, by acting as chaperones for the unstable and dynamic nucleotide-free state of Gα.
Sentinel Node Mapping in Lung Cancer: The Holy Grail?

Sentinel node identification has become standard of surgical care for melanoma and breast cancer. The idea of a first nodal station draining a tumor theoretically would allow the assessment of that node(s) to represent the state of the remaining regional nodes. The sentinel node is used to limit potentially morbid lymph node dissections. Another benefit of the technique is directing applications of more focused pathologic or molecular staging techniques such as serial sections, immunohistochemistry, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. This ability to direct a more focused search for metastatic disease in the sentinel node rather than all of the nodes removed is a primary benefit of the technique in lung cancer. Most reported clinical trials and experience with the sentinel node technique in lung cancer were conceived before the current data supporting adjuvant chemotherapy for all node-positive patients. With current indications for adjuvant chemotherapy in resected lung cancer largely determined by the status of the locoregional lymph nodes, the accurate identification of positive nodes has gained therapeutic importance. Sentinel node identification may aid identification of more patients who could benefit from postoperative chemotherapy. Patients with only micrometastatic nodal disease in theory should benefit as well, but the data are less clear.
Structure and dynamics of the modular halves of Escherichia coli cyclic AMP receptor protein.

E. coli cyclic AMP receptor protein, CRP, is a modular protein that consists of a covalent linkage of two common structural domains. To probe the mechanism for intramolecular communications and to ...
Wavelength-selective laser ablation of diamond using hydrogen-impurity vibration modes

Abstract We have observed wavelength-dependent laser ablation of diamond films demonstrating the CH bond-stretching mode at 3.5 μm, which is important in the early stages of photodamage. In particular, there is a sharp drop in the ablation threshold near 3.5 μm. The measurements were made with the Vanderbilt Free-Electron Laser (FEL). We also observed the onset of morphological changes by using an atomic force microscope (AFM).
Lower adiponectin is associated with subclinical cardiovascular disease among HIV-infected men.

OBJECTIVE To examine whether altered levels of adipokines, adipose-derived peptides associated with myocardial infarction in the general population, may contribute to subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in HIV-infected persons. DESIGN Nested cohort study. METHODS We studied HIV-infected (HIV+) and HIV-uninfected (HIV-) men in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study with noncontrast computed tomography (CT) to measure coronary artery calcium and regional adiposity; 75% additionally underwent coronary CT angiography to measure plaque composition and stenosis. Adiponectin and leptin levels were assessed. Multiple regression models were used to assess associations between adipokine levels and HIV disease parameters, regional adiposity, and plaque adjusted for age, race, HIV serostatus, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. RESULTS Significant findings were limited to adiponectin. HIV-positive men (n=493) had lower adiponectin levels than HIV-negative men (n=250) after adjusting for CVD risk factors (P<0.0001), which became nonsignificant after adjustment for abdominal visceral and thigh subcutaneous adipose tissue. Among HIV-positive men, lower adiponectin levels were associated with higher CD4 T-cell counts (P=0.004), longer duration of antiretroviral therapy (P=0.006), and undetectable HIV RNA levels (P=0.04) after adjusting for age, race, and CVD risk factors; only CD4 cell count remained significant after further adjustment for adipose tissue. In both groups, lower adiponectin levels were associated with increased odds of coronary stenosis more than 50% (P<0.007). Lower adiponectin levels were associated with increased extent of plaque in HIV-positive and of mixed plaque in HIV-negative men. CONCLUSION Adiponectin levels were lower in HIV-infected men and related to the severity of subclinical atherosclerosis, independent of traditional CVD risk factors.
Relation of cue to consequence in avoidance learning

An audiovisual stimulus was made contingent upon the rat’s licking at the water spout, thus making it analogous with a gustatory stimulus. When the audiovisual stimulus and the gustatory stimulus were paired with electric shock the avoidance reactions transferred to the audiovisual stimulus, but not the gustatory stimulus. Conversely, when both stimuli were paired with toxin or x-ray the avoidance reactions transferred to the gustatory stimulus, but not the audiovisual stimulus. Apparently stimuli are selected as cues dependent upon the nature of the subsequent reinforcer.
In the forest vine Smilax rotundifolia, fungal epiphytes show site-wide spatial correlation, while endophytes show evidence of niche partitioning

Endophytic and epiphytic fungal assemblages from stems of S. rotundifolia, a shrubby vine, were studied in order to (1) quantify differences and the degree of overlap between fungal communities of both micro-habitats, and (2) examine whether fungal assemblages are spatially correlated at the local scale (tens to hundreds of meters), in order to understand if dispersal limitation may play a role in structuring these communities. Sampling was conducted over 160 m of growth along a forest edge. The communities showed low overlap (Bray-Curtis Similarity = 0.22), with most species that were common in one habitat appearing rarely if at all in the other, and only Aureobasidium pullulans showing high frequency in both. Epiphytic assemblages proved to be spatially correlated along the 160 m length of the transect, and even more so when adjacent pairs of stems were considered as the unit of comparison rather than individual stems. Endophytic assemblages showed no significant spatial correlation along the transect. Unexpectedly, three species of endophytes showed a pattern in which abundance of colonies peaked at different heights on the stems. Colletotrichum boninense showed peak abundance at 3 cm from the stem base. Phomopsis sp. 1 peaked at 33 cm from the stem base. Endophytic isolates of A. pullulans peaked at 63 cm from the stem tip. It was also found that positive correlative relationships were detected between endophyte-endophyte, and epiphyte-epiphyte pairs. Cross-group interactions seemed to center around crossover species that were not entirely constrained within the surface or interior.
Elder abuse in the United States.

Abstract Elder abuse in the US became a public issue in 1978, due to investigation by the US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Family Violence. Defining abuse has proved difficult, but five primary categories have been developed: physical, psychological, financial/material abuse, violation of personal rights, and neglect. Abuse of some type occurs in 4–10% of Americans over 65 years of age. There are presently laws in all 50 states dealing with elder mistreatment. Mandatory reporting has been enacted in most states; however, most laws provide no funds for meaningful intervention. Recommendations for preventing, diagnosing, and reporting elder mistreatment are reviewed. Intervention requires a multidisciplinary effort by professionals from the medical, social service, mental health and legal professions.
MODE OF ACTION OF SELENIUM IN RELATION TO BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF TOCOPHEROLS.

Abstract Dietary selenium at levels below 1 ppm has a partially beneficial effect upon nutritional muscular dystrophy but is ineffective or detrimental at higher levels. The role of selenium in improving the effectiveness of vitamin E is due at least in part to the fact that dietary selenium increases the retention of the α-tocopherols, especially d-α-tocopherol. This has been shown by chemical determination of plasma tocopherols and also by tracing the activities of tritiated tocopherols and selenium75 in serum and in various fractions of serum proteins in chicks receiving these nutrients alone and in combination. Se75 and H3-α-tocopherol activities followed each other very closely in the serum proteins. These studies indicated that vitamin E may be carried by a selenolipoprotein fraction associated with serum γ-globulin. Thus, one biological role of selenium appears to lie in a selenium-containing compound which acts as a carrier of vitamin E and which may function in absorption, retention, prevention of destruction, and perhaps transfer across cell membranes of d-α-tocopherol, thereby enhancing its biological activity in the blood and perhaps in cells throughout the body.
Thirteen cases of Niikawa-Kuroki Syndrome: Report and review with emphasis on medical complications and preventive management

Eight new and five previously illustrated patients with Niikawa-Kuroki syndrome (NKS) are compared to those in the literature, providing data on 183 cases. Eight patients had disproportionate microcephaly and in one autopsied patient there was frontal lobe atrophy, focal polymicrogyria, and a hypoplastic fourth ventricle. The metacarpophalangeal pattern profiles of three Caucasian patients with NKS were similar to that of a prior case report, but those of two Hispanic patients were more variable. NKS was eliminated by follow-up in nine suspect cases, highlighting the diagnostic value of findings such as arched eyebrows, long palpebral fissures, flat nasal tip, and prominent finger pads. One patient suspected of having NKS had a very different metacarpophalangeal pattern profile, supporting its diagnostic utility in selected cases. Higher frequencies of neonatal complications, abnormal dentition, hypotonia, and microcephaly were noted in non-Asian patients with NKS, while a higher frequency of skeletal anomalies was seen in Japanese patients. Complications affecting cognitive, visual, hearing, cardiac, renal, skeletal, immune, and endocrinologic functions are translated into a program for preventive management. X chromosome anomalies are the most compelling of diverse genetic changes seen in NKS, and this report adds another case to several possible instances of vertical transmission. The 108 non-Asian patients now reported emphasize the worldwide significance of NKS recognition.
Applied-Field Magnetoplasmadynamic Thrusters, Part 2: Analytic Expressions for Thrust and Voltage

The new visualization of applied- eld magnetoplasmadynamic thruster operation offered by numerical simulations with the MACH2 code is used to develop an analytic model. This model provides simple expressions for the thrust and voltage drop across the plasma that capture all of the trends and in most cases the magnitudes of a wide range of experimental data including tests at multiple laboratories on three propellants: argon, hydrogen, and lithium. It establishes that the thrust scales as the square root of the product of the applied- eld strength, discharge current, and mass- ow rate. Voltage scales linearly with applied- eld strength and is independent of discharge current and mass- ow rate. This model also provides additional insights that can be used to improve applied- eld magnetoplasmadynamicthruster performance.
Solar cycle heavy ion abundance variations in CIRs

We have extended our prior survey of Corotation Interaction Region (CIR) heavy ion abundances and spectra to include the recent solar minimum and return of solar activity starting in 2010. During this new survey period, we find that the CIR spectra and low energy intensities show similar ranges of values to more active periods; however, above a few MeV/nucleon the intensities were much lower. We find during active periods the heavy ion abundances are significantly enhanced compared to solar minimum, and the Fe/O ratio varies by a factor of ∼6, much more than the solar wind. These observations add to the evidence that CIR major heavy ion species are accelerated suprathermals, not bulk solar wind.
Adsorption of water onto mercaptohexadecanoic acid self-assembled monolayers using a quartz crystal microbalance

A vacuum quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) apparatus was used to measure water adsorption isotherms on mercaptohexadecanoic acid (HS(CH2)15COOH-MHA) self assembled monolayers (SAMs) on Au coated quartz crystals. Isotherms measured over a temperature range of 20–45°C are consistent with a strong interaction between adsorbed water and the COOH terminated surface of the SAM. From comparison of our data with calculated BET isotherms we estimate the isosteric heat of adsorption for this system to be ca. 12 kcal/mol.