cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Channel-Change Game for Multiple Interfering Cognitive Wireless Networks

The proliferation of wireless networks on unlicensed communication bands is leading to coexisting networks, creating interference problems. In this paper, we present a game-theoretic model of dynamic channel change for multiple highly interfering cognitive wireless networks. The channel-change decisions depend on the number of coexisting networks and the cost of channel change. Game-theoretic analysis reflects the choices and motivations of independent, rational, selfish decision makers that do not trust one another. The channel-change probability is shown to increase with the number of coexisting networks. We also compare these decisions to idealized, socially optimal decisions that maximize the expected benefit of the coexisting networks. The difference between the two analyses gives the cost of non-cooperation. We see that this cost goes down as the number of networks increases.
Cortical bone microperfusion response to ischemia and changes in major arterial blood flow

In order to investigate the effects of short-term ischemia on cortical bone microperfusion, an isolated porcine tibia diaphyseal preparation based on intact nutrient vessels was developed. Laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) was utilized to assess continuously the cortical microcirculation and the response to short-term ischemia. The femoral artery was isolated and clamped to develop the condition of bone ischemia. On release of the clamp, reactive hyperemia was documented in all animals. Using a roller pump connected to a segment of femoral artery, the same preparation was utilized to investigate the effect of a changing femoral artery flow on the cortical microcirculation. A positive correlation between LDF output and change in arterial inflow (r = 0.64) was defined. This model has the potential for studying the effect of ischemia on bone cell viability.
Use of the tuberculin skin test in children

Abstract The tuberculin skin test, originally developed by Koch over a century ago as a means to treat tuberculosis, has emerged as the definitive means to identify infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis . Its value was first demonstrated in studies of student nurses in Norway where it correctly identified uninfected students at greatest risk of dying of tuberculosis during the course of their training. The test was used to investigate contacts of active cases of tuberculosis, especially children. Cohort studies of such children undertaken in the 1950s and early 1960s showed that those who developed an induration in response to the tuberculin test of 10mm or greater were most likely to go on to develop tuberculosis in the future and that, if they were treated with isoniazid for a prolonged period (with maximal effect after 12 months of treatment), they were substantially less likely to develop tuberculosis. Since that time, the tuberculin skin test has been used extensively to identify individuals who have been infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and who would most likely benefit from treatment of latent tuberculous infection. Subsequently, international experts recommend that all children under five years of age who are in contact especially with sputum smear positive cases of tuberculosis should all be tested with tuberculin if it is available. Those found to have a significant reaction should be treated with isoniazid if they do not have active tuberculosis. Moreover, the tuberculin skin test has been used as a reliable means to monitor the progress of tuberculosis in the community through the means of surveys of school children to determine prevalence (and estimate incidence) of tuberculous infection in the community. The tuberculin skin test is not easy to administer or to interpret and requires careful application and interpretation. Tuberculin consists of a mixture of material produced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis as it is growing. It is prepared in a form termed ‘purified protein derivative (PPD)' but is neither pure nor consists entirely of protein. Reference material has been developed to standardise it. The reading of the result of tuberculin testing requires experience and care. Inexperience leads to error (terminal digit preference). Tuberculin also detects the presence of antigens from other Mycobacteria species the most important of which is environmental Mycobacteria . Previous vaccination with BCG has less effect on the results of the test. The tuberculin test is useful to detect infection in children.
Underlying Factors Driving Fiscal Effort in Emerging Market Economies

Using a panel dataset of 34 emerging market countries for the period 1990-2002, we examine the roles of various economic, political, and institutional variables in determining fiscal effort, as proxied by the primary surplus. We find that while fiscal effort increases, as expected, with the level of lagged debt, this effect tapers off beyond a certain threshold. We also find an inverse U-shaped relationship between the primary balance and revenue. Fiscal effort rises with positive shocks to oil prices (for oil exporters), when the economy grows above its potential, and in the presence of an IMF-supported program. In contrast, high democratic accountability and strong and impartial bureaucracies help lower market risk and hence lower the relative need for fiscal adjustment. Finally, fiscal effort tends to decline when too many constraints are faced by the executive.
Aortic Valve Endothelial Cells Undergo Transforming Growth Factor-β-Mediated and Non-Transforming Growth Factor-β-Mediated Transdifferentiation in Vitro

Cardiac valves arise from endocardial cushions, specialized regions of the developing heart that are formed by an endothelial-to-mesenchymal cell transdifferentiation. Whether and to what extent this transdifferentiation is retained in mature heart valves is unknown. Herein we show that endothelial cells from mature valves can transdifferentiate to a mesenchymal phenotype. Using induction of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), an established marker for this process, two distinct pathways of transdifferentiation were identified in clonally derived endothelial cell populations isolated from ovine aortic valve leaflets. α-SMA expression was induced by culturing clonal endothelial cells in medium containing either transforming growth factor-β or low levels of serum and no basic fibroblast growth factor. Cells induced to express α-SMA exhibited markedly increased migration in response to platelet-derived growth factor-BB, consistent with a mesenchymal phenotype. A population of the differentiated cells co-expressed CD31, an endothelial marker, along with α-SMA, as seen by double-label immunofluorescence. Similarly, this co-expression of endothelial markers and α-SMA was detected in a subpopulation of cells in frozen sections of aortic valves, suggesting the transdifferentiation may occur in vivo. Hence, the clonal populations of valvular endothelial cells described here provide a powerful in vitro model for dissecting molecular events that regulate valvular endothelium.
Mucosal immunity: The origin and migration patterns of cells in the secretory system.

It has been known for approximately 15 yr that secretory IgA (sIgA) is the predominant class of immunoglobulin present on certain mucous membranes which are exposed to the external environment.’ The IgA secreted onto the mucous membrane is, in large part, produced locally by plasma cells distributed in the lamina propria of the intestinal and respiratory tracts as well as other mucosal tissues.2 Recent information suggests that the transport of dimeric IgA and probably also of IgM is facilitated by complexing of these J chain-containing polymers with membranebound secretory component (SC) acting as a receptor. The binding of membrane SC with IgA and IgM may be a prerequisite for their pinocytotic transfer across the glandular epithelium. Consistent with this thesis is the demonstration of specific in vitro complexing of IgA and IgM with SC, the localization of SC (by immunofluorescence and electron microscopy) to the basal and lateral membranes of the epithelial cells, and the observation that the administration of anti-SC impairs the mucosal transport of IgA.3 Also, polymeric IgA and IgM will bind to the surface of fetal intestines at 16 wk gestation when SC first appears but not to sections taken earlier in gestation. SC may have an additional function in that when combined with IgA to form sIgA, an increased resistance to proteolytic degradation develops, compared to IgA dimers lacking SC or other classes of Ig.4T 5 Thus sIgA may be particularly suited (an evolutionary advantage?) to function in the “hostile” environment found at most mucosal surfaces.
Enhancing Cannabinoid Neurotransmission Augments the Extinction of Conditioned Fear

The endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system represents a major therapeutic target for the treatment of a variety of anxiety-related disorders. A recent study has demonstrated that pharmacologic or genetic disruption of CB1-receptor-mediated neurotransmission decreases the extinction of conditioned fear in mice. Here, we examined whether CB1 blockade would similarly disrupt extinction in rats, using fear-potentiated startle as a measure of conditioned fear. We also examined whether pharmacologic enhancement of CB1 activation would lead to enhancements in extinction. Our results indicate that systemic administration of the CB1 antagonist rimonabant (SR141716A) prior to extinction training led to significant, dose-dependent decreases in extinction. While the administration of the CB1 agonist WIN 55,212-2 did not appear to affect extinction, administration of AM404, an inhibitor of eCB breakdown and reuptake, led to dose-dependent enhancements in extinction. In addition to showing decreased fear 1 and 24 h after extinction training, AM404-treated animals showed decreased shock-induced reinstatement of fear. Control experiments demonstrated that the effects of AM404 could not be attributed to alterations in the expression of conditioned fear, locomotion, shock reactivity, or baseline startle, as these parameters seemed unchanged by AM404. Furthermore, coadministration of rimonabant with AM404 blocked this enhancement of extinction, suggesting that AM404 was acting to increase CB1 receptor activation during extinction training. These results demonstrate that the eCB system can be modulated to enhance emotional learning, and suggest that eCB modulators may be therapeutically useful as adjuncts for exposure-based psychotherapies such as those used to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other anxiety disorders.
Teratocarcinoma transplantation antigens are encoded in the H-2 region

Evidence is presented for the existence of teratocarcinoma transplantation antigens (Gt) encoded within the H-2 complex and present also on adult tissues. It has not been possible to separate these Gt loci from H-2 by recombination, and Gt factors map to each end of the H-2 complex. Previous reports indicating separation of all Gt loci from H-2 are reinterpreted. One class of such apparent recombinants has been shown to result from the outgrowth of tumor variants in mice of resistant genotype.
Coherent states: Theory and some Applications

In this review, a general algorithm for constructing coherent states of dynamical groups for a given quantum physical system is presented. The result is that, for a given dynamical group, the coherent states are isomorphic to a coset space of group geometrical space. Thus the topological and algebraic structure of the coherent states as well as the associated dynamical system can be extensively discussed. In addition, a quantum-mechanical phase-space representation is constructed via the coherent-state theory. Several useful methods for employing the coherent states to study the physical phenomena of quantum-dynamic systems, such as the path integral, variational principle, classical limit, and thermodynamic limit of quantum mechanics, are described.
High pressure studies

In principle, the methods described elsewhere in this volume are available at high pressures (HP). Of course, “in principle” implies the availability of techniques for maintaining samples of a sufficient volume at the HP to allow observation of a signal. Compared to studies on the same material at ambient conditions, neutron scattering at HP is a flux hungry technique. The HP device, irrespective of its design, will necessarily force compromise between signal and parasitic scattering and absorption from the cell. Breakthroughs in HP neutron science therefore depend on novel HP cell and beamline design that maximize pressure, sample volume, and signal to noise discrimination. ### Overview and historical context Successful high-pressure structural studies using neutron scattering techniques date from at least the 1960s (Bloch et al. 1966; Lechner and Quittner 1966; Litvin et al. 1966; Brugger et al. 1967). Although early HP cell designs were installed at reactor sources (Paureau and Vettier 1975) it became clear the geometric restrictions associated with collecting data in the angular dispersive geometry lead to contributions from parasitic scattering from the high pressure cell. Typical of these early designs was the so-called “McWhan cell” (McWhan et al. 1974), a piston cylinder apparatus (Fig. 1⇓) with an alumina cylinder radially supported by compressing two steel plates with a hydraulic ram. This left a neutron window between the plates ~6 mm high and allowed a number of very important studies, with pressures up to 3 GPa achieved routinely. Despite difficulties at the higher pressures with poor counting statistics, and severe peak overlap problems because of diffraction from alumina, several important studies were carried out including careful work on the high pressure phases of ice, D2O-VI, -VII and VIII (Kuhs et al. 1984). Apart from parasitic scattering from the HP cell, another disadvantage was the requirement that …
Microcontact printing large-area pattern of catalytic Pd ink with a polyelectrolyte modified stamp for selective electroless deposition of nickel on glass substrate

Abstract In this paper, a simple and effective method to fabricate a large-area conductive metal pattern on glass substrate is described. This method involves microcontact printing (μCP)of a thermo-sensitive St-co-NIPAAm/Pd nanoparticle-based ink on a glass substrate to create the catalytic site, onto which nickel is subsequently deposited by an electroless plating method, to obtain the desired metal pattern. The Pd nanoparticles reduced and stabilized by styrene-N-isopropylacrylamide co-oligomer showed their well dispersion in the water without surfactant and reductant in the mixture and these nanoparticles adhered well to glass surface. Through a carefully examine the effect of surface modification of rubber stamp using either cationic or anionic polyelectrolyte on the surface properties of rubber and resolution of CP, our results indicates that a complete and uniform Ni pattern can be produced simply by modifying the pristine stamp surface with a positively charged polyelectrolyte (poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride), PDDA). It enhances the affinity between Pd ink and the PDDA-modified stamp and produces a uniform ink layer on the substrate. The excellent adhesion of the deposited Ni P coating to the substrate was ascertained by the scotch tape test method.
A factor-analytic study of Tarter's "hyperactivity-MBD" questionnaire.

Abstract A number of studies have suggested a relationship between childhood hyperactivity and subsequent alcohol abuse. Research with alcoholics has utilized retrospective, self-report questionnaires to examine the relationship between childhood hyperactivity and alcoholism. Since it is now recognized that “hyperactivity” has been rather looselyand broadly defined, it would seem reasonable to determine the independent behavioral dimensions subsumed within it. The present study factor analyzed the data of 145 alcoholic inpatients on Tarter's ‘hyperactivity/MBD’ questionnaire. Four factors which included 26 of Tarter's original 50 items were derived-hyperactivity-impulsivity, attentional-socialization problems, antisocial behavior, and learning disability. These factors and the items contained therein were compared with four scales developed on a rational basis by the Hesselbrocks. Additionally, the factor scores of the subjects were cluster analyzed yielding six interpretable clusters. A number of these, such as hyperactivity-impulsivity alone, hyperactivity-impulsivity combined with attentional-socialization problems, and hyperactivity-impulsivity combined with antisocial behavior, are of considerable theoretical interest. Accordingly, further requirements for establishing the validity of the factor analyzed scales and the cluster analysis-based responder groupings were delineated.
Poly(vinyl chloride) Nanocomposites

Poly(vinyl chloride) is one of the major thermoplastics beside other commodities polymers like polyethylene and polystyrene. However, some of its main characteristics such as plasticity, thermal and photo stability are inferior to other commodity polymers. Adding nano scale inorganic fillers to poly(vinyl chloride) or other polymers in view to obtain polymer nanocomposites with superior properties has drawn the attention of many researchers in the last decades. Poly(vinyl chloride) nanocomposites are obtained mainly by in situ polymerization, solution based or mixing techniques. The resulting products show improvement of most important properties of poly(vinyl chloride) such as thermal, mechanical, rheological, flammability, antibacterial, etc. This paper presents preparation ways of poly(vinyl chloride) nanocomposites using different nano fillers and the improved properties compared with those of virgin poly(vinyl chloride).
IS THE SELF ESSENTIAL? HANDLING REDUCTIONISM

Summary.-The nature of the self has been addressed by persons in various areas of psychology. The explanatory constructs have often reduced the self to other phenomena or structures. The self has been reduced to biology, cognition, social functioning, personal history, and consciousness. However, there are theories which characterize the self as an agent which is not simply reducible to its functions and supporting structures. The difference between reductionistic and nonreductionistic theories is the difference between a self who is created by awareness and behavior and a self who becomes aware and creates behavior. Most theories of personality argue on one side or the other. There are also theories which simply ignore the argument and use the term "self" vaguely. This article argues for a unitive concept of the self as essence, which precedes existence on all levels of functioning. It is argued that our essential nature is akin to that which has been termed spiiitual. Who am I? The pertinent answer for reductionistic theories involves the specific physical structures and psychosocial processes which form what many conceive as the "illusory" self. Do these structures and processes include all the characteristics of the self, offering commensurate predictability? For if the self is truly reduced to other phenomena, then these other phenomena must offer a complete explanation of the self, i.e., answering not only questions of "how" but also of "why." After all, a key idea in understanding personality is the concept of self as agent or director of personal processes (e.g., Hogan, 1976). Too often explanations of the self turn out to be only pale descriptions and of directed processes rather than the director at that. The question "Who am I?" begs for a more meaningful and absolute answer. Early in psychology, James (1910) made attempts to find and describe the self which is the most true and ultimate source of personal identity. The self which is being much more so than doing, which "is" identity rather than identification "with" something. The pertinent issue then for those theories which view the self in a nonreductionistic way concerns the essential nature of the self. Whenever we deal in the realm of the absolute and meaningful, we deal in the realm of the spiritual (e.g., Frankl, 1955). One might define the spiritual as does the perennial philosophy of Huxley: "the one, divine reality substantial to the manifold world of things and lives and minds" (1984, p. 28). Also, as we might consider the personal part of physical reahty the body and of mental or cognitive reahty the mind, then the personal part of spiritual or ultimate reality is called the soul, a term also
Aqueous-phase source of formic acid in clouds

The coupled gas- and aqueous-phase cloud chemistry of HCOOH were examined for controlling factors in the acidity of cloud and rainwater. Attention was given to the aqueous OH/HO2 system that yields an OH species that is highly reactive with other species, notably SO2 and the formaldehyde/formic acid complex. A numerical model was developed to simulate the cloud chemistry in the remote troposphere, with considerations given to CH4-CO-NO(x)-O3-H(x)O(y) system. It was determined that aqueous phase OH radicals can produce and destroy formic acid droplets in daylight conditions, as well as control formic acid levels in rainwater. It is sugested that the same types of reactions may be involved in the control of acetic acid and other organic acids.
Effects of sewage sludge on iron chlorosis and yield of grain sorghum grown on calcareous soils

Abstract A greenhouse study was conducted to evaluate the effects of sewage sludge on Fe‐chlorosis and yield of grain sorghum. Different rates of sewage sludge (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5, 15.0, 20.0 and 25.0 g sludge kg‐1 soil) were added to three calcareous soils; Clareville cl (Pachic Argiustoil), Orelia c (Typic Ochraqualf) and Pernitas fsl (Typic Argiustoil). Visual chlorosis ratings decreased with increasing sludge rates on all three soils. However, more than 25 g sludge kg‐1 was needed to correct Fe‐deficiency in Orelia soil. Dry matter yields increased with increasing sludge rates in Orelia soil. On Pernitas soil, dry matter yields increased with increasing sludge rates up to 12.5 to 15.0 g sludge kg‐1 soil and then leveled off or slightly decreased. On Clareville soil, dry matter yields increased with sludge rates up to 10 g sludge kg‐1 soil and then decreased, indicating a possibility of heavy metals toxicity. The data in this experiment indicate that in calcareous soils with high pH it is pos...
Interleukin-6 regulation of direct lung ischemia reperfusion injury.

Background Lung ischemia reperfusion injury continues to adversely affect patient and graft survival after transplantation. While the role of interleukin-6 has been studied in ischemia-reperfusion models of intestine, liver, and heart, its participation in lung reperfusion injury has not been characterized. Methods We administered recombinant interleukin-6 to rat lungs through the intratracheal route before inducing left lung ischemia and reperfusion. Multiple in-vivo indicators of left lung injury were studied, as were transactivation patterns for nuclear factor kappa B and signal transduction and activators of transcription-3. Downstream effects on the elaboration of proinflammatory chemokines and cytokines were also studied. Results Recombinant interleukin-6 reduced endothelial disruption and neutrophil sequestration in left lung and alveolar spaces, resulting in improved oxygenation after ischemia and 4 hours of reperfusion. This protection was associated with decreased nuclear factor kappa B and signal transduction and activators of transcription-3 nuclear translocation early in reperfusion, and diminished proinflammatory mediator secretion late in reperfusion. Conclusions Further studies focusing on the effects of recombinant interleukin-6 in large animal models are warranted, as this may be a novel strategy to improve outcomes after lung transplantation. Intratracheal administration may focus its efficacy on the lung while reducing effects on other organ systems during organ procurement.
Development of industrial-medium-required elimination of the 2,3-butanediol fermentation pathway to maintain ethanol yield in an ethanologenic strain of Klebsiella oxytoca.

Fermentation efficiency and nutrient costs are both significant factors in process economics for the microbial conversion of cellulosic biomass to commodity chemicals such as ethanol. In this study, we have developed a more industrial medium (OUM1) composed of 0.5% corn steep liquor (dry weight basis) supplemented with mineral salts (0.2%), urea (0.06%), and glucose (9%). Although the growth of strain P2 was vigorous in this medium, approximately 14% of substrate carbon was diverted into 2,3-butanediol and acetoin under the low pH conditions needed for optimal cellulase activity during simultaneous saccharification. Deleting the central region of the budAB genes encoding α-acetolactate synthase and α-acetolactate decarboxylase eliminated the butanediol and acetoin coproducts and increased ethanol yields by 12%. In OUM1 medium at pH 5.2, strain BW21 produced over 4% ethanol in 48 h (0.47 g ethanol per g glucose). Average productivity (48 h), ethanol titer, and ethanol yield for BW21 in OUM1 medium (pH 5.2) exceeded that of the parent (strain P2) in rich laboratory medium (Luria broth).
Extensor Mechanism Disruption After Contralateral Middle Third Patellar Tendon Harvest for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Revision Reconstruction

The contralateral central third patellar tendon autograft is a reliable graft choice for revision, and recently, for primary reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). We report 2 complications including a lateral third tibial tuberosity fracture and a distal patellar tendon avulsion with contralateral patellar tendon autograft with disruption of the extensor mechanism of the donor knee. A patient sustained a lateral tibial tuberosity fracture of the donor knee and underwent open reduction and internal fixation. At 1-year follow-up, she had no extensor lag and full range of motion. Another patient sustained a distal patellar tendon avulsion of the donor knee and underwent primary repair. Three years postoperatively, she had a full range of motion and no extensor lag. Although contralateral middle third patellar tendon autograft for primary and revision ACL reconstruction is established in the literature, extensor mechanism complications can occur. Technical considerations are important to avoid weakening the remaining patellar tendon insertion. Postoperative nerve blocks or local anesthetics may alter pain feedback for regulation of weight bearing and contribute to overload of the donor knee.
Macroelectrode responses with stimulation and recording within hippocampus and related structures during different states of consciousness

Abstract Three or four pairs of bipolar electrodes were chronically implanted in the hippocampal formation, subicular area, and entorhinal cortex of rats, all on the same side. The EEG, EOG, and neck EMG were also recorded. Responses due to electrical stimulation of one electrode pair were recorded in the other electrode pairs during slow-wave sleep, paradoxical sleep, and arousal. The stimuli were single, constant current pulses once every 5 sec. Most responses did not change with different states of consciousness. All responses which were smaller during paradoxical sleep than during slow-wave sleep were also small during arousal. Most changes were in this category. All of the responses which were larger during paradoxical sleep than in slow-wave sleep were the same in arousal and slow-wave sleep. Responses in hippocampus or fascia dentata from stimulation of other parts of these structures often changed, usually decreasing during paradoxical sleep and arousal. Responses in subiculum, presubiculum, or entorhinal cortex from stimulation of hippocampus or fascia dentata usually changed, usually decreasing with paradoxical sleep and arousal. Responses in entorhinal cortex or presubiculum from stimulation of subiculum increased in paradoxical sleep. Responses in fornix and CA3 from stimulation of presubiculum decreased in paradoxical sleep. An important negative finding was that no responses due to stimulation of entorhinal cortex changed in different states of consciousness. No clear correlation of the changes with phasic phenomena of paradoxical sleep was seen.
A Case of Repeated Brief Psychotic Episodes Secondary to Discontinuation of Non-Prescription Estrogen Replacement Therapy

The estrogen hypothesis of psychosis indicates that estrogen contributes a protective effect against the development of psychotic disorders. Conversely, hypoestrogenic states have been shown to be associated with the occurrence of psychotic disorders in women. We present the case of a 53-year-old woman who experienced repeated brief psychotic episodes on two occasions in the context of discontinuation of non-prescription estrogen replacement therapy.
Getting there and hanging on: the effect of regulatory focus on performance in smoking and weight loss interventions.

Objective: Our primary objective was to determine whether individual differences in regulatory focus (Higgins, 1998) would differentially predict the initiation and maintenance of behavioral change. We hypothesized that people high in promotion focus because they eagerly pursue new positive end-states, would be better able to initiate behavioral change, whereas people higher in prevention focus because they tend to be vigilant in avoiding losses as a means to preserve desired end-states, would be better able to maintain change. Design: We examined our hypotheses in longitudinal studies of smoking cessation and weight loss. Main Outcome Measures: Our outcome measures were smoking status and weight. Results: In both interventions, promotion focus, but not prevention focus, predicted successful initiation; people higher in promotion focus had higher quit rates and lost more weight through the first 6 months of follow-up. Of participants who had initial success, prevention focus, but not promotion focus, predicted successful maintenance; people higher in prevention focus were more likely to remain smoke-free and maintain weight loss over the next year. Conclusion: A fit between behavioral task and regulatory focus can facilitate the successful performance of meaningful behaviors over time.
Immunocytochemical analysis of prostate stem cell antigen as adjunct marker for detection of urothelial transitional cell carcinoma in voided urine specimens.

ABSTRACT Purpose Prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA), a homologue of the Ly-6/Thy-1 family of cell surface antigens, has been shown to be increased in a majority of human transitional cell carcinomas. We tested the possibility of using PSCA as an adjunct marker for urine cytology. Materials and Methods Immunocytochemical analysis was performed on 44 archived voided urine samples obtained from 3 groups of patients based on initial voided urine cytological results and subsequent followup biopsy findings. Group 1 (14 of 44 patients) had positive findings on cytology and histology, group 2 (16 of 44) had negative cytology but positive histology, and group 3 (14 of 44) had negative findings on cytology and histology. Cytological slides prepared from 10 fresh voided urine samples were also analyzed. Papanicoloau stained archived urine slides were de-stained and re-stained immunocytochemically with a monoclonal antibody against PSCA. Immunofluorescence followed by laser scanning cytometer analysis was also performed on archived slides from 2 representative cases. Results Sensitivity and specificity were 46.7% and 100% for cytology alone, respectively, and 80% and 85.7% for PSCA alone, respectively. PSCA immunostaining was positive in 92.8% group 1, 68.8% group 2 and only 14.3% group 3 samples. The difference in positive PSCA findings in groups 2 and 3 were statistically significant at p Conclusions Immunocytochemical analysis of PSCA on archived voided urine samples may provide a simple and quantitative adjunct marker for cytological diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma.
Anomalous tracheal bronchus with tracheal hypoplasia.

The most common tracheal abnormalities concern the right upper lobe take-off. The apical segment is most commonly involved with a tracheal bronchus. It is rarely accompanied by tracheal stenosis. A patient had a tracheal bronchus to the posterior segment with tracheal hypoplasia so severe that neither tracheostomy tube nor bronchoscope could pass the site of aberrant arborization. We report our experience to alert surgeons, dealing with airway problems, that "croup" symptoms, not relieved by tracheostomy, require endoscopy to assess for airway stenosis and to evaluate for abnormal bronchial patterns.
High-affinity Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase in plasma membrane-rich preparations from olfactory epithelium of Atlantic salmon

Abstract High-affinity Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase was identified in a plasma membrane-rich fraction of olfactory epithelium from Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar ). The enzyme required both Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ for activation. The apparent K m for Ca 2+ was 9.5 nM and V max was 0.85 μmol P i /mg of protein per min. Stimulation by Ca 2+ was optimal at 5–100 μM MgCl 2 . Bovine brain calmodulin had no effect on Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase, even after multiple washes of the membrane preparation with EDTA or EGTA. Endogenous calmodulin was somewhat resistant to removal and could be detected with immunobloting after multiple washes of the membrane preparation with EDTA or EGTA. This endogenous calmodulin may regulate Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase activity because the activity was inhibited by calmidazolium. Vanadate inhibited Ca 2+ ,Mg 2 -ATPase activity and thapsigargin, a specific inhibitor for Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase of endoplasmic reticulum, had no effect on the enzyme activity. High affinity Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase exists in both ciliary and nonciliary membranes with a similar K m for Ca 2+ . Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase activity is greater in cilia preparations than in membranes from the deciliated olfactory epithelium. As a putative plasma membrane Ca 2+ pump, this high-affinity Ca 2+ ,Mg 2+ -ATPase may play an important role in the regulation of intracellular Ca 2+ in olfactory epithelia. In particular, the ciliary membrane may play a prominent role in the removal of Ca 2+ from ciliated olfactory receptor cells after odorant stimulation.
Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in African-American patients (The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 1985–1986 Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Registry)

Abstract Although black patients have a higher prevalence of risk factors for coronary artery disease, the outcome of coronary angioplasty in black patients is not known. The purpose of this study was to determine if any racial differences existed in the clinical characteristics and outcome of patients enrolled in the 1985–1986 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) Registry. The clinical characteristics, in-hospital event rates, and 5-year follow-up results of all patients enrolled in the 1985–1986 NHLBI PTCA Registry were examined with respect to race. Of the patients enrolled in the registry, 1,939 (90.8%) were white and 76 (3.6%) were black. Among black patients there were more women (50% vs 24%, p
PM-Seq: Using Finite Poisson Mixture Models for RNA-Seq Data Analysis and Transcript Expression Level Quantification

RNA-Seq has emerged as a powerful technique for transcriptome study. As much as the improved sensitivity and coverage, RNA-Seq also brings about challenges for data analysis. The massive amount of sequence reads data, excessive variability, uncertainties, and bias and noises stemming from multiple sources all make the analysis of RNA-Seq data difficult. Despite much progress, RNA-Seq data analysis still has much room for improvement, especially on the quantification of transcript/gene expression levels. In this article, using finite Poisson mixture models, we propose a two-step approach, called PM-Seq, to characterizing base pair level RNA-Seq data and quantifying transcript/gene expression levels. Finite Poisson mixture models combine the strength of fully parametric models with the flexibility of fully nonparametric models, and are extremely suitable for modeling heterogeneous count data such as RNA-Seq data. In particular, we consider three types of Poisson mixture model and propose to use a BIC-based model selection procedure to adapt the models to individual transcripts. A unified quantification method based on the Poisson mixture models is developed to measure transcript/gene expression levels. The Poisson mixture models and the proposed quantification method were applied to analyze two RNA-Seq data sets and demonstrated excellent performances in comparison with other existing methods. Our approach resulted in better characterization of the data and more accurate measurements of transcript expression levels. We believe that finite Poisson mixture models provide a flexible framework to model RNA-Seq data, and methods developed based on this framework have the potential to become powerful tools for RNA-Seq data analysis.
Redefining Borderline Syndromes as Posttraumatic and Rediscovering Emotional Containment as a First Stage in Treatment

This brief review traces the evolution of clinical understanding about borderline syndromes during the last three decades of the 20th century. The focus shifted from descriptive phenomenology in the 1970s to documenting linkages with childhood trauma in the 1980s. In the 1990s, effective and teachable techniques for emotional containment in these conditions were developed and evaluated for efficacy.
Losing My Religion: The Social Sources of Religious Decline in Early Adulthood

Many Americans exhibit declining religiosity during early adulthood. There is no consensus about why this occurs, though longstanding assumptions suggest the secularizing effects of higher education, normative deviance and life course factors. We evaluate these effects on decreasing frequency of religious practice, diminished importance of religion and disaffiliation from religion altogether. Results from analyses of the Add Health study indicate that only religious participation suffers substantial declines in young adulthood. Contrary to expectations, emerging adults that avoid college exhibit the most extensive patterns of religious decline, undermining conventional wisdom about the secularizing effect of higher education. Marriage curbs religious decline, while cohabitation, nonmarital sex, drugs and alcohol use each accelerate diminished religiosity – especially religious participation – during early adulthood.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE GENETIC BASIS OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN BACTERIA AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURE

Until recently the term “genetic basis of antibiotic resistance” was interpreted narrowly to mean the properties of the genes that confer on a bacterium the ability to resist the action of one or more antibiotics. Scientists who work on antibiotic resistance now realize, however, that this perspective is too narrow. Just as important as the properties of the resistance genes themselves is the ability of bacteria to transfer these genes to other bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is increasingly seen as an ecological problem, which includes the ecology of resistance genes as well as the ecology of the resistant bacteria themselves.
Tracking the daily availability of burn beds for national emergencies.

Abstract : Medical planning for Operation Iraqi Freedom includes predictive models of expected number of burn casualties. In all but the best-case scenario, casualty estimates exceeded the capacity of the only Department of Defense burn center. Examination of existing federal- civilian disaster plans for military hospital augmentation revealed that bed availability data were neither timely nor accurate. Recognizing the need for accurate knowledge of burn bed availability, the Department of Defense requested assistance from the American Burn Association (ABA). Directors of burn centers in the United States were queried for interest in participation in a mass casualty plan to provide overflow burn bed capacity A list of 70 participating burn centers was devised based upon proximity to planned military embarkation points. A computer tracking program was developed. Daily automated e-mail messages requesting bed status were sent to burn center directors at 6 AM Central time with responses requested before 11 AM. The collated list of national overflow burn bed capacity was e-mailed each day to tile ABA Central Office and to federal and military agencies involved with burn patient triage and transportation. Once automated, this task required only 1-2 hours a day. Available burn-bed lists were generated daily between March 17 and May 2, 2003 and then every other day until May 9, 2003. A total of 2151 responses were received (mean, 43 burn centers per day). A system to track dally nationwide burn bed availability was successfully intended. Although intended for military conflict, this system is equally applicable to civilian mass casualty situations. We advocate adoption of this or a similar bed tracking system by the ABA for use during burn mass casualty incidents.
The Effect of Initiatives on Local Government Spending

Tools of direct democracy, such as the citizen initiative, are available at both the state and local levels in the United States, yet models of the process typically do not consider these institutions in tandem. In this article, I develop a model of local fiscal policy that incorporates the impact of a statewide as well as a local initiative process. I posit that the statewide initiative process leads to lower levels of state spending, additional spending mandates on the local level, and reduced deadweight costs of taxation, with these three factors leading to an increase in local spending. I then show that the ability of interest groups to secure particularistic spending through the local initiative has a similarly pro-spending impact. Subsequently, I explore data from the year 2000 in over 600 cities with a population greater than 25,000 and find that the spending-enhancing effects of the local initiative are strong when signature requirements are low, leading to a 12—14 percent increase in spending com...
Negotiating domestic socialism with global capitalism: So-called tourist apartheid in Cuba

Abstract In the 1990s the Cuban government instituted a “dual economy,” creating a dollar economy parallel to the peso economy as part of the reform package designed to address economic crisis. Expansion of the tourism sector as a dollar industry was central to efforts to raise revenue, as Cuba began limited and regulated interaction with the global capitalist economy. In an effort to quarantine Cubans from capitalist inequities, citizens were prohibited from accessing tourist facilities other than as workers. Some have referred to this as “tourist apartheid.” This study finds that “apartheid” is not an accurate classification of the system in Cuba; rather, the policy is comparable to an economic “firewall” designed to allow regulated engagement with the international capitalist community, while preventing ingress of capitalism domestically.
Characteristics of the seasonal cycle of surface layer salinity in the global ocean

Abstract. The seasonal variability of surface layer salinity (SLS), evaporation (E), precipitation (P), E-P, advection and vertical entrainment over the global ocean is examined using in situ salinity data, the National Centers for Environmental Prediction's Climate System Forecast Reanalysis and a number of other ancillary data. Seasonal amplitudes and phases are calculated using harmonic analysis and presented in all areas of the open ocean between 60° S and 60° N. Areas with large amplitude SLS seasonal variations include: the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans; western marginal seas of the Pacific; and the Arabian Sea. The median amplitude in areas that have statistically significant seasonal cycles of SLS is 0.19. Between about 60° S and 60° N, 37% of the ocean surface has a statistically significant seasonal cycle of SLS and 75% has a seasonal cycle of E-P. Phases of SLS have a bimodal distribution, with most areas in the Northern Hemisphere peaking in SLS in March/April and in the Southern Hemisphere in September/October. The seasonal cycle is also estimated for surface freshwater forcing using a mixed-layer depth climatology. With the exception of areas near the western boundaries of the North Atlantic and North Pacific, seasonal variability is dominated by precipitation. Surface freshwater forcing also has a bimodal distribution, with peaks in January and July, 1–2 months before the peaks of SLS. Seasonal amplitudes and phases calculated for horizontal advection show it to be important in the tropical oceans. Vertical entrainment, estimated from mixed-layer heaving, is largest in mid and high latitudes, with a seasonal cycle that peaks in late winter. The amplitudes and phases of SLS and surface fluxes compare well in a qualitative sense, suggesting that much of the variability in SLS is due to E-P. However, the amplitudes of SLS are somewhat different than would be expected and the peak of SLS comes typically about one month earlier than expected. The differences of the amplitudes of the two quantities is largest in such areas as the Amazon River plume, the Arabian Sea, the ITCZ and the eastern equatorial Pacific and Atlantic.
Wave-front splitting interferometer for measurement of phase modulation

A wave-front splitting interferometer has been constructed and analyzed for measuring the phase modulating properties of popular spatial light modulators (SLM). A modified liquid crystal television (LCTV) was then used in the experiment to verify the technique. It was determined that for this interferometric architecture, one full fringe shift corresponds to a 2π phase modulation. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.
A finite element in elliptic coordinates with application to membrane vibration

A nine-node Lagrangian finite element is derived and implemented in elliptic coordinates. The element is used to formulate an analysis for the free vibration of an elliptical membrane. Frequencies and mode shapes are computed for vibration of both solid and annular elliptic membranes. The annular membrane is defined as a conformal ellipse. Both free and fixed interior boundary conditions are analyzed. Results for frequencies and mode shapes are presented in tabular and graphic format, respectively.
Double Phosphaalkyne Insertion to a Tungsten Alkylidene: Formation of a Diphosphametallabicyclobutane

A unique diphosphametallabicyclobutane complex results from the reaction of the Schrock tungsten neopentylidene with excess P⋮C-t-Bu, in contrast to phosphaalkyne reaction products with similar mol...
Theory of terahertz conductivity in the pseudogap phase of the cuprates: A preformed pair perspective

In this paper we deduce transport properties in the presence of a pseudogap associated with precursor superconductivity. Our theoretical analysis is based on the widely adopted self-energy expression reflecting this normal state gap, which has appeared in interpretations of photoemission and in other experiments. Thus, it should be generally applicable. Here we address THz conductivity $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\omega})={\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{1}(\ensuremath{\omega})+i{\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{2}(\ensuremath{\omega})$ measurements in the underdoped high-temperature superconductors and arrive at reasonable agreement between theory and recent experiment for both ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{1}$ and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{2}$ above and below ${T}_{c}$.
Sino‐Cuban Relations and Cuba's Future after Fidel Castro

Since the Soviet block collapsed, how the rest of the communist world has survived the impact has been observed closely by academic and policy communities. This article examines the possibility of the post-Castro Cuban leadership adopting the Chinese approach – using capitalist mechanism and integrating with world economy to legitimize the one-party regime – and argues that to forestall such a prospect, the US current embargo policies ought to be abandoned.