cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Illusions of superpower

This article recalls the perennial debates in international relations theory regarding power, applied to the common assumption that the United States is a “superpower” and especially the “War on Terror.” There have been startingly different assessments of the power of the United States since the end of World War II. A central problem derives from bad theory, specifically realism and its familiar list of “power factors” that supposedly contribute to the overall power of a state. The United States rates highly on any such list, but the exercise is very misleading. Each power factor has a “downside”. Power is always relative to actor(s), issues, and context; quality leadership matters and “soft power” in its several dimensions is also extremely important. In these respects, the power exercised by the present George W. Bush Administration is narrowly military and poorly suited to combating terror or exercising influence in global politics generally.
Heredity, environment, and the Thurstone Temperament Schedule

Correlations on scales of the Thurstone Temperament Schedule are examined in two twin studies (Michigan and Veterans twin samples), an adoption study (Texas), and an unpublished twin-family study. It is concluded that the joint evidence suggests (1) an appreciable effect of additive genes, differing across scales; (2) a negligible influence of shared environments, except possibly for monozygotic (MZ) twins; (3) a possible contrast effect among dizygotic (DZ) twins on temperament and personality traits, but shared interests; and (4) a causally ambiguous elevation of MZ twin correlations, which could be due either to nonadditive genetic effects or to a special sharing of environments (or self-concepts) in this group.
Naturally occurring human glutathione S-transferase GSTP1-1 isoforms with isoleucine and valine in position 104 differ in enzymic properties

Glutathione S-transferase P1-1 isoforms, differing in a single amino acid residue (Ile104 or Val104), have been previously identified in human placenta [Ahmad, H., Wilson, D. E., Fritz, R. R., Singh, S. V., Medh, R. D., Nagle, G. T., Awasthi, Y. C. & Kurosky, A. (1990) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 278, 398-408]. In the present report, the enzymic properties of these two proteins are compared. [I104]glutathione S-transferase P1-1 has been expressed from its cDNA in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity by affinity chromatography; the cDNA has been mutated to replace Ile104 by Val104, and [V104]glutathione S-transferase P1-1 was expressed and isolated as described for [I104]glutathione S-transferase P1-1. The two enzymes differed in their specific activity and affinity for electrophilic substrates (KM values for 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene were 0.8 mM and 3.0 mM for [I-104]glutathione S-transferase P1-1 and [V-104]glutathione S-transferase P1-1, respectively), but were identical in their affinity for glutathione. In addition, the two enzymes were distinguishable by their heat stability, with half-lives at 45 degrees C of 19 min and 51 min, respectively. The resistance to heat denaturation was differentially modulated by the presence of substrates. These data, in conjunction with molecular modeling, indicate that the residue in position 104 helps to define the geometry of the hydrophobic substrate-binding site, and may also influence activity by interacting with residues directly involved in substrate binding.
Prospective optimization of CT under tube current modulation: I. organ dose

In an environment in which computed tomography (CT) has become an indispensable diagnostic tool employed with great frequency, dose concerns at the population level have become a subject of public attention. In that regard, optimizing radiation dose has become a core problem to the CT community. As a fundamental step to optimize radiation dose, it is crucial to effectively quantify radiation dose for a given CT exam. Such dose estimates need to be patient-specific to reflect individual radiation burden. It further needs to be prospective so that the scanning parameters can be dynamically adjusted before the scan is performed. The purpose of this study was to prospectively estimate organ dose in abdominopelvic CT exams under tube current modulation (TCM). CTDI vol -normalized-organ dose coefficients ( h fixed ) for fixed tube current were first estimated using a validated Monte Carlo simulation program and 58 computational phantoms. To account for the effect of TCM scheme, a weighted CTDI vol was computed for each organ based on the tube current modulation profile. The organ dose was predicted by multiplying the weighted CTDI vol with the organ dose coefficients ( h fixed ). To quantify prediction accuracy, each predicted organ dose was compared with organ dose simulated from Monte Carlo program with TCM profile explicitly modeled. The predicted organ dose showed good agreement with simulated organ dose across all organs and modulation strengths. For an average CTDI vol of a CT exam of 10 mGy, the absolute median error across all organs were 0.64 mGy (-0.21 and 0.97 for 25th and 75 th percentiles, respectively). The percentage differences (normalized by CTDI vol of the exam) were within 15%. This study developed a quantitative model to predict organ dose under clinical abdominopelvic scans. Such information may aid in the optimization of CT protocols.
Revisiting the cloning debate.

Leroy Walters advances three arguments against a temporary or permanent ban on research cloning (“Research cloning, ethics, and public policy,” Letters, 14 March, p. [1661][1]). A federal ban would, he claims, be premature, preemptive, and unprecedented. However, none of these three claims can
The distinction between absence petit mal and psychomotor seizures

A brief discussion of the manifestations of limbic lobe discharge as opposed to discharge in neocortical temporal lobe structures is given. The opinion is expressed that, apart from certain characteristic limbic auras, the manifestations of psychomotor epilepsy are those of inactivation of brain stem mechanisms subserving consciousness. A brief discussion of other manifestations of inactivation of brain stem mechanisms subserving various other functions, as seen in other clinical patterns of epileptic discharge, follows. Hippocampal sclerosis is put forth as the cause rather than the result of seizures in both the juvenile and the adult age groups. It is proposed that limbic lobe structures have a low threshold for initiating epileptic discharge when injured, are predisposed to injury and give rise to discharge which has preferential access to brain stem structures. It is stated that petit mal absences and psychomotor attacks are clinically indistinguishable. The further opinion is expressed that the 3 per second wave and spike EEG pattern associated with petit mal is an epiphenomenon dependent upon the maturational stage of development of the brain at the time when the causative lesion responsible for epilepsy is acquired. The view that the 3 per second wave and spike pattern is a direct correlate of the clinical manifestations of epilepsy, in those patients who show this pattern, is challenged. It is concluded that the pattern is the result of rostral brain stem discharge acting upon the cortex. The view is offered that two factors are necessary for the development of epilepsy: (1) an adequate pathological basis in the form of a cerebral lesion and (2) a greater or lesser predisposition toward inadequate biochemical mechanisms tending to check or control the spread of seizure discharge, the latter being in all probability at least partially genetically determined. It is concluded that triggering cortical foci exist in nearly all cases of epilepsy, though the participation of brain stem structures is essential to explain many of the clinical and EEG manifestations of the attack.
First principles calculations for lithiated manganese oxides.

First principles calculations within the local-spin-density-functional theory (LSDFF) framework are presented of densities of electronic states for MnO, LiMnO{sub 2} in the monoclinic and orthorhombic structures, cubic LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinel and {lambda}-MnO{sub 2} (delithiated spinel), all in antiferromagnetic spin configurations. The changes in energy spectra as the Mn oxidation state varies between 2+ and 4+ are illustrated. Preliminary calculations for Co-doped LiMnO{sub 2} are presented, and the destabilization of a monoclinic relative to a rhombohedral structure is discussed.
Indigenous Peoples in International Environmental Cooperation: Arctic Management of Hazardous Substances

This article reviews the international legal framework on hazardous substances, with an emphasis on the Arctic and the roles of indigenous peoples. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals pose significant risks to Arctic indigenous populations, mainly through the consumption of traditional foods. Treaties of particular relevance include the Protocols on Heavy Metals and POPs to the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (1998) and the Stockholm Convention on POPs (2001). Arctic indigenous groups have exerted considerable influence on hazardous substance management through lobbying of national governments, participation in domestic and international scientific assessments, and direct advocacy in regional and global political fora. Their engagement on environmental issues has also helped to shape circumpolar consciousness and political activism among different indigenous groups. At the same time, there remain important limitations on the independent authority and ability to act of indigenous groups. Challenges for Arctic indigenous groups and States include continuing collaborative abatement work targeting many POPs and heavy metals, as well as addressing linkages between hazardous substances and climate change, which is another issue of great Arctic concern.
A comparison between electron mobility in n-type Hg1−xCdxTe and Hg1−xZnxTe

Abstract We have calculated the electron mobility in n-type Hg1−xCdxTe (MZT) and compared it with that of Hg1−xCdxTe (MCT) for the same energy gap, donor concentration and acceptor concentration. The calculated MZT electron mobility was found to be very close to MCT electron mobility. For our calculations, we solved the Boltzmann equation using variational principles. The scattering processes that are of significance for our calculations include the scattering of electrons by: ionized impurities, holes, compositional disorder, acoustic phonons and optical phonons. In the process of calculating the electron mobility for MZT we have set up a table for all the needed material parameters. MZT has been considered as a substitute for MCT for possible use in infrared detectors due to its relative stability and hardness.
Synthetic chemoselective rewiring of cell surfaces: generation of three-dimensional tissue structures.

Proper cell–cell communication through physical contact is crucial for a range of fundamental biological processes including, cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and apoptosis and for the correct function of organs and other multicellular tissues. The spatial and temporal arrangements of these cellular interactions in vivo are dynamic and lead to higher-order function that is extremely difficult to recapitulate in vitro. The development of three-dimensional (3D), in vitro model systems to investigate these complex, in vivo interconnectivities would generate novel methods to study the biochemical signaling of these processes, as well as provide platforms for tissue engineering technologies. Herein, we develop and employ a strategy to induce specific and stable cell–cell contacts in 3D through chemoselective cell-surface engineering based on liposome delivery and fusion to display bio-orthogonal functional groups from cell membranes. This strategy uses liposome fusion for the delivery of ketone ...
Cytochemical observations on mannose-specific binding sites for horseradish peroxidase in liver sinusoidal cells

Paraformaldehyde-fixed, frozen sections of the liver of rats were processed for the detection of mannose-specific binding sites of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) by a method reported previously, with some modifications resulting in a more intense binding reaction. Before staining for peroxidase activity, the sections were held in buffered solutions of physiological saline at different temperatures and pH's, and in the presence or absence of added Ca2+, mannose or galactose. The gradual decrease and final disappearance of the binding reaction were observed. The release of HRP from the binding sites as determined by the disappearance of the cytochemical reaction was 50–100 times faster at 22°C than at 4°C and was 5–10 times faster at 37°C than at 22°C. The release was approximately twice as fast at pH 7.0 than at pH 9.0 and 20–30 times faster at pH 6.0 than at pH 7.0. The release of HRP was 10–15 times faster in the absence of 1 mM Ca2+ in the buffer solution and was approximately 100times faster in the presence of 0.1 M d-mannose as compared to 0.1 M d-galactose. Pretreatment of the sections with trypsin abolished the binding reaction whereas neuraminidase, phospholipases A2 and C, and chondroitinase ABC were without effect. An acidic isoenzyme of HRP, Sigma type VIII, was bound more intensely and more widely to liver sinusoidal cells than another acidic isoenzyme, Sigma type VII, a basic isoenzyme, Sigma type IX, and the routinely used preparation,Sigma type VI. The effect of the temperature on the binding reaction was re-examined with an improved procedure. In contradistinction to the previous finding, strong binding of HRP after 2–4 h incubation at 4°C was observed.
A Response to Carnaby’s (2012) Letter to the Editor: “Comment on Revalidating Swallowing Assessments”

Purpose The authors write this letter to clarify some of the points raised by Dr. Giselle Carnaby about their article titled “Clinical Experience Using the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (MA...
Capuchin monkeys ( Cebus apella ) let lesser rewards pass them by to get better rewards

Self-control is defined as foregoing an immediate reward to gain a larger delayed reward. Methods used to test self-control comparatively include inter-temporal choice tasks, delay of gratification tasks, and accumulation tasks. To date, capuchin monkeys have shown different levels of self-control across tasks. This study introduced a new task that could be used comparatively to measure self-control in an intuitive context that involved responses that required no explicit training. Capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were given a choice between two food items that were presented on a mechanized, revolving tray that moved those foods sequentially toward the monkeys. A monkey could grab the first item or wait for the second, but was only allowed one item. Most monkeys in the study waited for a more highly preferred food item or a larger amount of the same food item when those came later, and they inhibited the prepotent response to grab food by not reaching out to take less-preferred foods or smaller amounts of food that passed directly in front of them first. These data confirm that the mechanisms necessary for self-control are present in capuchin monkeys and indicate that the methodology can be useful for broader comparative assessments of self-control.
MORE THAN A FLITTING TOUR OF FLAPPING FLIGHT: The Biomechanics of Insect Flight

By Robert Dudley Princeton University Press pp. 536. ISBN 0-691-04430-9 (cloth)/0-691-09491-8 (pbk) £ 35 (cloth)/£24.95 (pbk) ![Figure][1] By most measures, insects are remarkable: whether considering number of species, biomass, economic importance or
Experimental observation of anomalous optical transmission fluctuations of thin metallic film/ LiNbO 3 substrate structures

Thermal electron dynamics at the interfaces of thin gold film/ferroelectric lithium niobate (LiNbO3) is studied by using step-function type laser irradiation. Our measurements reveal an anomalous transient optical transmission fluctuation caused by thermal electron dynamics at the interfaces. To our knowledge, such phenomenon and its theoretical explanation haven't been reported.
Size-induced deviations from Matthiessen's rule in gallium single crystals

Size-effect data are presented for gallium single-crystal wires oriented for current flow along the $b$ axis. The enhancement of the temperature-dependent resistivity is deduced with the use of straightforward assumptions concerning the common high $\frac{d}{{l}_{b}}$ behavior of all theoretical enhancement functions. Comparison is made with the theoretical curves of Sambles et al., wherein an angularly dependent specularity parameter is employed.
Sperm Competition Selects for Sperm Quantity and Quality in the Australian Maluridae

When ejaculates from rival males compete for fertilization, there is strong selection for sperm traits that enhance fertilization success. Sperm quantity is one such trait, and numerous studies have demonstrated a positive association between sperm competition and both testes size and the number of sperm available for copulations. Sperm competition is also thought to favor increases in sperm quality and changes in testicular morphology that lead to increased sperm production. However, in contrast to sperm quantity, these hypotheses have received considerably less empirical support and remain somewhat controversial. In a comparative study using the Australian Maluridae (fairy-wrens, emu-wrens, grasswrens), we tested whether increasing levels of sperm competition were associated with increases in both sperm quantity and quality, as well as an increase in the relative amount of seminiferous tubule tissue contained within the testes. After controlling for phylogeny, we found positive associations between sperm competition and sperm numbers, both in sperm reserves and in ejaculate samples. Additionally, as sperm competition level increased, the proportion of testicular spermatogenic tissue also increased, suggesting that sperm competition selects for greater sperm production per unit of testicular tissue. Finally, we also found that sperm competition level was positively associated with multiple sperm quality traits, including the proportion of motile sperm in ejaculates and the proportion of both viable and morphologically normal sperm in sperm reserves. These results suggest multiple ejaculate traits, as well as aspects of testicular morphology, have evolved in response to sperm competition in the Australian Maluridae. Furthermore, our findings emphasize the importance of post-copulatory sexual selection as an evolutionary force shaping macroevolutionary differences in sperm phenotype.
Cutaneous Manifestations of Endemic Mycoses

All of the endemic mycoses have cutaneous and mucocutaneous manifestations that are most commonly seen when patients have disseminated infection. Biopsy of skin lesions is simple and safe and can assist in making a timely diagnosis of disseminated infection. Primary cutaneous inoculation infection has been reported with all of the endemic mycoses, but is rare. In this situation, a nodule or ulcer occurs at the inoculation site, is often accompanied by lymphangitis and regional lymphadenopathy, and systemic symptoms and signs as almost always absent. Mucosal lesions are common with disseminated histoplasmosis, but also have been described in patients who have disseminated blastomycosis and coccidioidomycosis. Biopsy is essential to rule out cancer and allows a rapid diagnosis of the endemic fungal infection.
A re-examination of the cavitation model for craze growth in block copolymers with spherical morphology

Abstract A blend of a polystyrene/polybutadiene (PS/PB) diblock copolymer and polystyrene homopolymer was prepared by solution casting to yield a material containing 18 vol% PB and a morphology of PB spheres (200 A diameter) in a PS matrix. Various thermal histories, including rapid quenching, slow cooling and isothermal ageing, were imposed on specimens of this material; dynamic mechanical tests revealed significant changes in the viscoelastic relaxation spectrum as a function of ageing. Measured craze velocities were compared to the predictions of a rubber particle cavitation model for craze growth in these materials. Using a value of 47 MPa for the cavitation strength of the PB domains, excellent agreement was obtained between the model and all experimental results. Ageing had essentially no effect on craze velocities in this material.
Pion-nucleus optical potential with Dirac Hartree-Fock nuclear densities

Abstract A pion-nucleus optical potential is derived using a relativistic πN amplitude and a Dirac Hartree-Fock description of the nucleus. For low-energy pion-nucleus scattering very large corrections to the standard theory are obtained.
Shoreline erosion rates along the middle Atlantic coast of the United States

A method has been developed and tested for mapping shoreline changes using an orthogonal grid system and historical aerial photography. Our data base now includes rates and variances of shoreline change and storm-surge penetration at 100-m intervals along the coast for 630 km between New Jersey and North Carolina. Analysis of the data shows that the average rate of shoreline recession is 1.5 m/yr; however, variance along the 630-km reach is high, with rates of as much as 10 m/yr for the Virginia barrier islands.
Splicing variants of the porcine betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase gene: implications for mammalian metabolism

Betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT) activity is only detected in the liver of rodents, but in both the liver and kidney cortex of humans and pigs; therefore, the pig was chosen as a model to define the spatial and temporal expression of BHMT during development. During fetal development, a total of ten splice variants of bhmt were expressed at varying levels across a wide range of porcine tissues. Two variants contained an identical ORF that encoded a C-terminal truncated form of BHMT (tBHMT). The bhmt transcripts were expressed at significant levels in the liver and kidney from day 45 of gestation (G45) onward. The transcripts encoding tBHMT represented 5-13% of the total bhmt transcripts in G30 fetus, G45 liver, and adult liver and kidney cortex. The dominant structural feature of wild type BHMT is an (βα)8 barrel, however, a modeled structure of tBHMT suggests that this protein would assume a horseshoe fold and lack methyltransferase activity. Low BHMT activity was detected in the G30 fetus, and slightly increased levels of activity were observed in the liver from G45 and G90 fetuses. The bhmt promoter contained three key CpG sites, and methylation of these sites was significantly higher in adult lung compared to adult liver. The data reported herein suggest that genomic DNA methylation and variation of the 5' and 3' UTRs of bhmt transcripts are key regulators for the level of BHMT transcription and translation.
A vector autoregressive moving average time series approach for describing asymmetries of antennal control of two millipede species

This article presents a statistical method, vector autoregressive moving average time series analysis, which makes no initial assumptions about the controlling interactions between variables in the data beyond those of linear systems, and has been designed to be statistically valid without requiring several repetitions of data sets. It is therefore very useful for studying physiological and behavioral phenomena.
Physiological disposition of oral piracetam in Sprague-Dawley rats.

The distribution and fate of piracetam (2-oxo-1-pyrrolidine acetamide, Nootropil), the prototype ‘nootropic drug’, was examined in rats given 100–1000 mg kg−1 by gavage, with or without [3H]piracetam as a tracer. Peak serum concentrations were attained after 60 min. Its half-life of disappearance from serum was about 2 h during the initial 8 h after administration and then about 6·4 h for the next 16 h. Brain piracetam concentrations equilibrated with those of serum at about 4 h, after which they fell exponentially but remained about twice those of serum; piracetam concentrations in the brainstem were lower (by 30–40%) than those in the cortex, olfactory bulb, and colliculi. No evidence could be obtained for significant piracetam metabolism, either in-vivo or when incubated with liver homogenates. No specific binding of [3H]piracetam to any of various subcellular fractions was observed after its administration along with unlabelled carrier. Repeated daily doses of piracetam (7 days, 100 mg kg−1) failed to elevate serum or brain concentrations beyond those observed after a single dose.
Lived Experience, Reflexivity, and Research on Perpetrators of Interpersonal Violence

When conducting phenomenological studies, researchers seek to understand the lived experience of research participants. This goal presents special challenges when the topic is the meanings of violence to perpetrators. The purpose of this article is to describe the transformations of a feminist woman's understandings of the meanings of violence to male perpetrators of interpersonal violence in a long-term life history interview project. This article, therefore, is a case study of reflexivity in action. The methodological lessons learned may be instructive to other researchers interested in phenomenological research on interpersonal violence and other sensitive topics.
Washington Photometry of the Red Giant Branch in NGC 6388

We present Washington photometry of the giant branches of the relatively metal-rich globular cluster NGC 6388 and compare it with 47 Tuc. By examining the spatial distribution of stellar colors across the red giant branch and using spectroscopic data on several bright giants, we found that NGC 6388's center is affected by differential reddening of at least ΔE(B - V) ~ 0.1. Most of the width of the red giant branch is caused by that differential reddening. The southeastern outer regions of the cluster seem to be less affected by variable dust extinction, and we find that NGC 6388 is slightly more metal-rich than 47 Tuc, with a distinct asymptotic giant branch. We have put an upper limit on possible variations in [Fe/H] for NGC 6388, finding that it must be less than ~0.2 dex. It is unlikely that such a small range in metallicity could be responsible for the blue horizontal branch and blue tail stars in a cluster with a metallicity similar to the more massive 47 Tuc, which only exhibits a red horizontal branch.
Renormalization constants using quark states in fixed gauge

The authors present a status report on the calculation of the renormalization constants for the quark bilinears in quenched O(a) improved Wilson theory at {beta} = 6.4 using quark states in Landau gauge.
A study of the annealing behavior of neutron irradiated graphite

Abstract Recycle is being considered as a waste mitigation option for irradiated graphite from gas cooled reactors. Thermal annealing was performed on irradiated graphite samples to establish what fraction of in-crystal (displacement damage) and ex-crystal (pore generation) damage could be recovered. The sample dimensions and electrical resistivity were measured after isochronal annealing at 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 °C. Sample dimensions were unaffected by annealing. Some fraction of the resistivity was non-recoverable at 2000 °C, this behavior which was attributed to (a) structural changes resulting from pore generation (also causing dimensions to be unaffected by annealing) or (b) defect structures in irradiated graphite that persist even at an annealing temperature of 2000 °C. The resistivity annealing behavior was different in low irradiation temperature samples, T irr T irr > ∼400 °C, which indicated defect structures established during irradiation were different in these two temperature regimes. Moreover, the extent of recovery was much greater in the specimens with higher irradiation temperatures, and was small for lower dose–low temperature specimens. Evidently, some in-crystal defects that scatter or trap electrons are still present in the crystal lattice after annealing and their tenacity depends upon the irradiation temperature and accumulated neutron dose.
Microstructure and physical properties of arc ion plated TiAlN/Cu thin film

Abstract Multilayered TiAlN/Cu coatings were produced by using a cathodic vacuum arc (CVA) deposition system. Filter was incorporated to the system in order to get rid of oversized particles. The TiAlN layer gives a columnar structure. If the TiAlN deposit was interrupted periodically by adding copper to its composite, TiAlN/Cu nanomultilayer structure formed. Which can be clearly observed through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and the thickness of periodic nano-laminates of TiAlN in composite TiAlN/Cu coatings is approximately 7–8 nm. EDS analysis showed the copper content in TiAlN/Cu specimen is only about 4.5 at.%, yet it brings significant influence to the film composition, in which the titanium is suppressed while the aluminum is increased. By adding copper to TiAlN, the electron diffraction patterns were changed from spotty ring to continuous indicating the formation of nanocrystalline structure in TiAlN/Cu multilayered coating. The oxidation resistant temperature of TiAlN coating is examined at about 868.8 °C, and decreased to about 855.7 °C after adding copper in the coating. The nanoindentation measurement of TiAlN/Cu multilayered coated material shows a higher elastic modulus of about 361 GPa than that of TiAlN about 348 GPa, but a lower hardness of about 24 GPa than that of TiAlN about 30 GPa.
A Phosphopantetheinyl Transferase Homolog Is Essential for Photorhabdus luminescens To Support Growth and Reproduction of the Entomopathogenic Nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora

The bacterium Photorhabdus luminescens is a symbiont of the entomopathogenic nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. The nematode requires the bacterium for infection of insect larvae and as a substrate for growth and reproduction. The nematodes do not grow and reproduce in insect hosts or on artificial media in the absence of viable P. luminescens cells. In an effort to identify bacterial factors that are required for nematode growth and reproduction, transposon-induced mutants of P. luminescens were screened for the loss of the ability to support growth and reproduction of H. bacteriophora nematodes. One mutant, NGR209, consistently failed to support nematode growth and reproduction. This mutant was also defective in the production of siderophore and antibiotic activities. The transposon was inserted into an open reading frame homologous to Escherichia coli EntD, a 4'-phosphopantetheinyl (Ppant) transferase, which is required for the biosynthesis of the catechol siderophore enterobactin. Ppant transferases catalyze the transfer of the Ppant moiety from coenzyme A to a holo-acyl, -aryl, or -peptidyl carrier protein(s) required for the biosynthesis of fatty acids, polyketides, or nonribosomal peptides. Possible roles of a Ppant transferase in the ability of P. luminescens to support nematode growth and reproduction are discussed.
A new automatic organic elemental microanalyzer

Abstract An automatic microanalyzer for the simultaneous determination of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen has been developed and proved capable of accurate analysis of a wide variety of organic samples. The analyzer, based on the original system proposed by Simon, has been modified to improve the over-all design of the equipment. The instrument combusts samples in the 0.5–5 mg range in static oxygen in less than 13 minutes, utilizing a unique flow system to permit steady-state measurements of component concentrations. The design and peformance characteristics of the analyzer are discussed with particular emphasis on precision of the analyses.
Comparison by LC-MS and MALDI-MS of prostate-specific antigen from five commercial sources with certified reference material 613

Abstract Objective: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) samples from five commercial sources were compared with PSA from the European Commission Community Bureau of Reference, known as CRM 613, using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). Design and methods: The effects of storage at various temperatures, multiple freeze–thaw cycles and lyophilization vs. solution storage were investigated. Results: CRM 613 and the five commercially available samples varied in their heterogeneity and in the amount of PSA with a molecular mass of 28,430 kDa. Few changes were observed among any of the samples during the stability study or study of the effect of lyophilization and freeze–thaw cycles. Conclusions: Use of many of the commercial PSA sources as authentic PSA standards for calibrants for in vitro diagnostic tests could lead to significantly biased PSA measurements. Although all the PSA samples appear to be relatively stable for the time periods and conditions studied, some of the commercially available samples contain limited amounts of PSA and included other unidentified components.
Resource allocation for wireless networks

We examine several methods to allocate radio frequency channels across a cellular network. In this paper we consider centralized channel assignment strategies that utilize global network traffic information. The channel assignment methods considered are linear programming, quadratic programming, and a heuristic algorithm to assign resources given the network traffic loading. Each method attempts to assign resources, under frequency reuse constraints, to achieve a desired target performance measure for the network. The network performance measures used in this paper are the average and maximum probability of blocking across the network. We compare the performance of a linear highway network and a planar network using our assignment methods to those of uniform fixed channel allocation (FCA) for non-uniform network traffic loading. We show that under non-uniform traffic loading a better grade-of-service can be provided to network subscribers than by fixed channel assignment. >
Leiomyoma in a 15-year-old girl

Abstract A case of uterine leiomyoma in an adolescent, which presented as a pelvic mass with lower abdominal pain, is described. Such benign masses are exceedingly uncommon in this age group, and, when present, may be mistaken for malignant tumors. The difficulties both in making an appropriate preoperative diagnosis and in choosing the optimal surgical procedure in the absence of malignancy are discussed. Early cooperation between the pediatrician, the pediatric surgeon, and the gynecologist in managing the adolescent with a pelvic tumor is advised and conservative management, whenever possible, is stressed. Benign leiomyomas in the adolescent should be included in the differential diagnosis of a pelvic mass in standard textbooks of adolescent medicine and gynecology.
Model-based detection of lung nodules in computed tomography exams1

Abstract Rationale and objectives In this study, we developed a prototype model-based computer aided detection (CAD) system designed to automatically detect both solid and subsolid pulmonary nodules in computed tomography (CT) images. By using this CAD algorithm, along with the radiologist’s initial interpretation, we aim to improve the sensitivity of radiologic readings of CT lung exams. Materials and methods We have developed a model-based CAD algorithm through the use of precise mathematic models that capture scanner physics and anatomic information. Our model-based CAD algorithm uses multiple segmentation algorithms to extract noteworthy structures in the lungs and a Bayesian statistical model selection framework to determine the probability of various anatomical events throughout the lung. We tested this algorithm on 50 low-dose CT lung cancer screening cases in which ground truth was produced through readings by three expert chest radiologists. Results Using this model-based CAD algorithm on 50 low-dose CT cases, we measured potential sensitivity improvements of 7% and 5% in two radiologists with respect to all noncalcified nodules, solid and subsolid, greater than 5 mm in diameter. The third radiologist did not miss any nodules in the ground truth set. The CAD algorithm produced 8.3 false positives per case. Conclusion Our prototype CAD system demonstrates promising results as a tool to improve the quality of radiologic readings by increasing radiologist sensitivity. A significant advantage of this model-based approach is that it can be easily extended to support additional anatomic models as clinical understanding and scanning practices improve.
Fetal pulse oximetry and cesarean delivery.

Background Knowledge of fetal oxygen saturation, as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring, may be associated with a significant change in the rate of cesarean deliveries or the infant's condition at birth. Methods We randomly assigned 5341 nulliparous women who were at term and in early labor to either “open” or “masked” fetal pulse oximetry. In the open group, fetal oxygen saturation values were displayed to the clinician. In the masked group, the fetal oxygen sensor was inserted and the values were recorded by computer, but the data were hidden. Labor complicated by a nonreassuring fetal heart rate before randomization was documented for subsequent analysis. Results There was no significant difference in the overall rates of cesarean delivery between the open and masked groups (26.3% and 27.5%, respectively; P=0.31). The rates of cesarean delivery associated with the separate indications of a nonreassuring fetal heart rate (7.1% and 7.9%, respectively; P=0.30) and dystocia (18.6% and 19.2%, respecti...
Laser stimulation of the cavernous nerves in the rat prostate, in vivo: Optimization of wavelength, pulse energy, and pulse repetition rate

The cavernous nerves on the prostate surface are responsible for erectile function. Improved diagnostic techniques are necessary for identification of the nerves during prostate cancer surgery and preservation of sexual function after surgery. Electrical mapping of the nerves has been used as an intra-operative tool during prostate surgery, but it has proven inconsistent and unreliable. Non-contact optical stimulation of the cavernous nerves in the rat prostate has recently been demonstrated as a potential alternative to electrical nerve stimulation. The purpose of this study is to optimize the laser parameters to provide the maximum intracavernosal pressure response after optical nerve stimulation in the rat prostate. Optimal laser nerve stimulation parameters provided comparable response to electrical nerve stimulation. Optical nerve stimulation may represent a potential intra-operative diagnostic technique for use in laparoscopic and robotic nerve-sparing prostate cancer surgery.
Associations of Serum Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Levels with SHBG Gene Polymorphisms in the CARDIA Male Hormone Study

In the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) gene, a pentanucleotide-repeat polymorphism [(TAAAA)(n)] and a single nucleotide polymorphism (D327N) have been associated with circulating SHBG concentrations in women. Only one study, limited to Scandinavians, has examined these associations in men. Using data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Male Hormone Study, the authors assessed associations of SHBG polymorphisms with serum SHBG levels in 511 Black men and 698 White men who had SHBG measured in multiple serum samples collected over an 8-year period from 1987 to 1996 and were aged 20-34 years at the time of the first SHBG measurement. Multivariable repeated-measures analyses were used to assess associations of (TAAAA)(n) and D327N polymorphisms with SHBG concentrations. Results showed statistically significant differences in mean SHBG concentrations for White men with genotypes of (TAAAA) 6/6 (35.1 nmol/liter), 6/x (30.8 nmol/liter), and x/x (29.6 nmol/liter), where x represents a repeat length greater than 6 (p = 0.001). For Black men, the pattern of association was similar, albeit not statistically significant (p = 0.35). There was no relation between D327N genotype and SHBG levels. These results suggest that the (TAAAA)(n) repeat length in the SHBG gene, but not the D327N variant, might contribute to the interindividual variability in serum SHBG levels.
PARTISAN COMPETITIVENESS IN POST‐1990 U.S. HOUSE DISTRICTS

This research looks at redistricting in terms of the partisan competitiveness of U.S. House election districts by creating a measure of partisan competitiveness based on the 1988 presidential election results for the two major parties. Nationwide, regional, and state means of district partisan competitiveness are computed for pre- and post-1990 congressional districts, and changes in those means are analyzed. This method holds constant all other factors besides redistricting. Post-1990 districts are less competitive between the two major parties than pre-1990 districts, despite predictions to the contrary. A regression model, predicting states' change in mean district partisan competitiveness, shows that states required to preclear their election districts under the Voting Rights Act and states gaining from reapportionment decline in mean district partisan competitiveness to a statistically significant degree. Surprisingly, one-party control of redistricting is associated with increased competitiveness to a statistically significant degree.
Vitamin D and its role in immunology: multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) occur because of an inappropriate immune-mediated attack against self-tissue. Analyses of genetically identical twins shows that besides genetics there are important environmental factors that contribute to MS and IBD development. Vitamin D availability due to sunshine exposure or diet may play a role in the development of MS and IBD. Compelling data in mice show that vitamin D and signaling through the vitamin D receptor dictate the outcome of experimental MS and IBD. Furthermore, the evidence points to the direct and indirect regulation of T cell development and function by vitamin D. In the absence of vitamin D and signals delivered through the vitamin D receptor, auto reactive T cells develop and in the presence of active vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3 ) and a functional vitamin D receptor the balance in the T cell response is restored and autoimmunity avoided. r 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Indirect treatment of children via parent training: A burgeoning form of secondary prevention.

Abstract This study reviews research on the process and outcome of parent training (PT) conducted over the past 20 years. A distinction is made between parent behavioral training and other forms of PT. It is concluded that all forms of PT research have become more molecular in the questions addressed and otherwise more scientifically rigorous. Compared to other forms of psychotherapeutic intervention, PT produces more consistently positive outcome changes and is clearly more economical of professional time and thus of consumer cost. As such, although less than 3% of all previous PT studies have dealt with prevention, PT is recommended as a potential form of secondary prevention worth consideration by applied and preventive psychologists.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Clinical Review

Importance The most common leukemia is chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Every year, there are 15 000 new diagnoses and 5000 CLL deaths in the United States. Although therapeutic choices were once limited, treatment of this disease has vastly improved in the last decade. Objective Evidence-based review of the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of CLL. Evidence Review PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched through August 28, 2014. English-language peer-reviewed articles published between 2000-2014 were found using the keywords chronic lymphocytic leukemia , upfront therapy , upfront therapies , upfront therapeutic , upfront therapeutics , upfront treatment , front-line treatment , first-line treatment , front-line treatments , first-line treatments , front-line therapy , front-line therapies , randomized , randomized studies , randomized study , clinical trial , clinical trials , phase 3 , and phase 3 clinical trial . Abstracts and presentations at scientific meetings were excluded. A total of 277 articles were retrieved, of which 24 met our predefined selection criteria; treatment recommendations were based on subsequent analysis of these 24 articles. Findings The Rai and Binet systems for staging CLL were established in 1975 and 1977, respectively. However, they do not account for new disease categories such as monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (peripheral blood clonal lymphocytosis that does not meet other criteria for CLL). Two subsets of CLL are now recognized based on risk stratification involving molecular and cytogenetic analyses. Outcomes are improved by the addition of immunotherapy to combination chemotherapy for initial treatment in all subsets of treated patients. Overall response rates between 75% and 90% and complete responses between 22% and 45% are expected in the current era, with more than 80% of treated patients alive at 3 years. Overall, 5-year survival has increased to 66% from 60% ( P Conclusions and Relevance Chemoimmunotherapy is the standard first-line option approach for CLL, the most common leukemia observed in adults. Treatment is initiated when the disease becomes symptomatic, and survival is high following treatment.
Ship impacts on the marine atmosphere: insights into the contribution of shipping emissions to the properties of marine aerosol and clouds

Abstract. We report properties of marine aerosol and clouds measured in the shipping lanes between Monterey Bay and San Francisco off the coast of Central California. Using a suite of aerosol instrumentation onboard the CIRPAS Twin Otter aircraft, these measurements represent a unique set of data contrasting the properties of clean and ship-impacted marine air masses in dry aerosol and cloud droplet residuals. Below-cloud aerosol exhibited average mass and number concentrations of 2 μg m−3 and 510 cm−3, respectively, which are consistent with previous studies performed off the coast of California. Enhancements in vanadium and cloud droplet number concentrations are observed concurrently with a decrease in cloud water pH, suggesting that periods of high aerosol loading are primarily linked to increased ship influence. Mass spectra from a compact time-of-flight Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer reveal an enhancement in the fraction of organic at m/z 42 (f42) and 99 (f99) in ship-impacted clouds. These ions are well correlated to each other (R2>0.64) both in and out of cloud and constitute 14% (f44) and 3% (f99) of organic mass during periods of enhanced sulfate. High-resolution mass spectral analysis of these masses from ship measurements suggests that the ions responsible for this variation were oxidized, possibly due to cloud processing. We propose that the organic fractions of these ions be used as a metric for determining the extent to which cloud-processed ship emissions impact the marine atmosphere where (f42 > 0.15; f99 > 0.04) would imply heavy influence from shipping emissions, (0.05