cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Morphological integration and covariance during astogeny of an Ordovician trepostome bryozoan from communities of different diversities

Correlations exist between diversity and colonial growth pattern and variability in Paleozoic stenolaemate bryozoans. Habitats occupied by diverse communities contained colonies whose growth trajectories were different and were more highly constrained than those of low-diversity habitats. Because previous studies have not examined variability during colony growth, it was unclear whether observed variabilities were constant during growth (astogeny) or whether variability changed with age. Astogenetic trajectories and growth variability are here reexamined in populations of colonies of Heterotrypa ulrichi from the same high-diversity and low-diversity communities examined by Pachut (1989).Growth trajectories of populations differ in both intermonticular and monticular regions of colonies for fundamental stereological characters. Total zooidal surface areas generally decrease during astogeny whereas zooidal densities increase. Surface areas per zooid also decrease with increasing age, but are consistently larger in monticular zooecia and in populations from low-diversity communities irrespective of the colony region sampled. These patterns of declining values are caused by increasing wall thicknesses, larger and more abundant mesozooecia and acanthostyles, and the development of maculae during colony growth. Larger values in low-diversity settings may have provided reproductive and feeding benefits necessary for survival.Covariances reflect levels of morphological integration and are larger in populations from high-diversity communities in both intermonticular and monticular regions. Values differ more during early stages of growth (1–3) than later in astogeny (stages 4–5), and are consistently higher in intermonitulcar than in monticular zooecia. Lower levels of integration in monticules may be caused by spatial adjustments as the number of monticules increases across the expanding colony surface during growth. In general, stabilizing selection may have been weaker and less effective in establishing character covariance patterns in populations from low-diversity communities, perhaps because of greater environmental stress. These findings suggest that evaluations of astogenetic patterns and age-related changes in levels of morphological integration within a paleoenvironmental context are important in measuring species richness, in determining the direction of character evolution, and in assessing tempo and mode of evolutionary changes.
Mostly Smokers: Identifying Subtypes of Emerging Adult Substance Users

ABSTRACTBackground: The concurrent use of marijuana and other substances among emerging adults (ages 18–25) is a major public health problem. This study examined if there are distinct subtypes of emerging adult marijuana users and if these are associated with demographic and substance use variables. Methods: The design was a cross-sectional interview with a community sample of 1,503 emerging adults in the northeastern U.S. who reported last month marijuana use. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify distinct subtypes of emerging adults who used additional substances and examined predictors of the latent classes. Results: We identified three distinct classes of emerging adults who use substances: “mostly smokers” (those who primarily use marijuana and nicotine), “moderate users” (those who primarily use marijuana and/or heavy episodic alcohol), and “polysubstance users.” Polysubstance users had higher probabilities of use of all assessed substances (e.g. cocaine, opiates, sleep medications, stimul...
Safety and efficacy of shoulder arthroplasty following lower extremity periprosthetic joint infection

Background The safety of arthroplasty in patients with a previous periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine whether patients with a history of a properly treated PJI complicating lower extremity arthroplasty can safely undergo shoulder arthroplasty without an increased risk of shoulder infection or compromise in their clinical outcomes. Methods Between 2002 and 2013, 36 patients with successful treatment of an infected lower extremity arthroplasty underwent a subsequent primary shoulder arthroplasty. Three were lost to follow-up. The remaining 33 shoulders were analyzed at a mean follow-up of 3.5 years for radiographic, clinical, and functional outcomes. Nine patients were receiving chronic antibiotic suppression at the time of their index shoulder arthroplasty. The mean time between PJI treatment and shoulder arthroplasty was 4.7 years (range, 0.7-13.1 years). Results Shoulder arthroplasty led to improved pain scores and range of motion. Excellent or satisfactory modified Neer ratings were achieved in 78.8% of patients. There was no difference in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores between the groups with and without chronic antibiotic suppression. There were 2 reoperations, both in patients not receiving chronic suppression. The indications were aseptic glenoid loosening and infection after a periprosthetic fracture. The final estimated survival free of infection was 93.3%. Discussion/Conclusion Shoulder arthroplasty in patients with a history of PJI complicating hip or knee arthroplasty seems to be safe, with a low rate of infection. Thus, previous lower extremity PJI should not be considered a relative contraindication to shoulder arthroplasty.
Abstract P201: Divergent Angiotensin Receptor Signaling in a Mouse Model of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Independent of their beneficial effects on hypertension and cardiovascular related disease, angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1R) blockers can improve stress-related symptoms. AT1R receptor-mediated actions can be counteracted directly or indirectly by the angiotensin receptor type 2 receptor (AT2R). Our recent studies in a mouse model of PTSD have shown that AT1R blockade increases the extinction (learned inhibition) of a traumatic fear memory and that AT1R mRNA expression is reduced in fear related brain regions of animals treated with the AT1R antagonist losartan. These data imply that downstream AT1 signaling events maybe important in consolidation of fear memory extinction. Therefore we investigated the acute effects of AT2R inhibition and AT2R stimulation on fear memory and baseline anxiety in mice. We performed classical Pavlovian fear conditioning pairing auditory cues with foot shocks and examined fear extinction (% freezing to conditioned stimulus) in the presence of the AT2R antagonist PD 123319 and agonist Compound 21. Twenty-four hours following fear conditioning, PD 123319 (15 mg/kg IP), Compound 21 (10 mg/kg IP) or vehicle was administered prior to fear memory extinction. The PD treated group exhibited significantly less percent freezing (68%; 68 of 100) compared to vehicle control (47%; 47 of 100) during fear expression (F10, 300 = 1.9; p
The prognostic impact of combined NPM1+/FLT3- mutational status in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with intermediate risk cytogenetics according to age and treatment modality.

7064 Background: Combined NPM1+/FLT3- is associated with a favorable prognosis in adults with AML, treated with standard chemotherapy. The impact of this on outcome is however not well defined acco...
Increased Incidence of Vascular Injury in Obese Patients With Knee Dislocations.

Objectives:With rising rates of obesity in the United States, the burden of knee dislocations in this population remains unknown. This national epidemiologic study was designed to analyze the association of obesity with closed knee dislocation and vascular complications.Design:Retrospective cohort s
The Politics of Wine in Early Modern France: Religion and Popular Culture in Burgundy, 1477–1630

In the late fifteenth century, Burgundy was incorporated in the kingdom of France. This, coupled with the advent of Protestantism in the early sixteenth century, opened up new avenues for participation in public life by ordinary Burgundians and led to considerably greater interaction between the elites and the ordinary people. Mack Holt examines the relationship between the ruling and popular classes from Burgundy's re-incorporation into France in 1477 until the Lanturelu riot in Dijon in 1630, focusing on the local wine industry. Indeed, the vineyard workers were crucial in turning back the tide of Protestantism in the province until 1630 when, following royal attempts to reduce the level of popular participation in public affairs, Louis XIII tried to remove them from the city altogether. More than just a local study, this book shows how the popular classes often worked together with local elites to shape policies that affected them.
Microbial Community Cohesion Mediates Community Turnover in Unperturbed Aquifers.

ABSTRACT Microbial ecological processes are frequently studied in the presence of perturbations rather than in undisturbed environments, despite the relatively stable conditions dominating many microbial habitats. To examine processes influencing microbial community structuring in the absence of strong external perturbations, three unperturbed aquifers in Ohio (Greene, Licking, and Athens) were sampled over 2 years and analyzed using geochemical measurements, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and ecological modeling. Redox conditions ranging from highly reducing to more oxidizing distinguished aquifer geochemistry across the three locations. Distinct microbial communities were present in each aquifer, and overall community structure was related to geochemistry, although community composition was more similar between the Athens and Licking locations. The ecological processes acting upon microbial assemblages within aquifers were varied; geochemical changes affected the Athens location, while time or some unknown factor affected Greene County. Stochastic processes, however, dominated the Licking aquifer, suggesting a decoupling between environmental fluctuations and community development. Although physicochemical differences might be expected to drive variable selection, dispersal limitation (inability to mix) explained differences between Athens and Licking. Finally, community complexity as measured by “cohesion” indicated that less-interconnected communities experienced higher turnover and were more likely to be affected by stochastic processes. Conversely, more-interconnected communities experienced lower turnover and susceptibility to homogenizing selection. Based upon these data, we support the hypothesis that unperturbed environments house dynamic microbial communities due to external and internal forces. IMPORTANCE Many microbial ecology studies have examined community structuring processes in dynamic or perturbed situations, while stable environments have been investigated to a lesser extent. Researchers have predicted that environmental communities never truly reach a steady state but rather exist in states of constant flux due to internal, rather than external, dynamics. The research presented here utilized a combined null model approach to examine the deterministic and stochastic processes responsible for observed community differences in unperturbed, groundwater ecosystems. Additionally, internal dynamics were investigated by relating a recently published measure of community complexity (cohesion) to ecological structuring processes. The data presented here suggest that communities that are more cohesive, and therefore more complex, are more likely affected by homogenizing selection, while less-complex communities are more susceptible to dispersal. By understanding the relationship between internal dynamics and community structuring processes, insight about microbial population development in natural systems can be obtained.
Patterns of triclosan resistance in Vibrionaceae

The antimicrobial additive triclosan has been used in personal care products widely across the globe for decades. Triclosan resistance has been noted among Vibrio spp., but reports have been anecdotal and the extent of phenotypic triclosan resistance across the Vibrionaceae family has not been established. Here, triclosan resistance was determined for Vibrionaceae strains across nine distinct clades. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined for 70 isolates from clinical (n = 6) and environmental sources (n = 64); only two were susceptible to triclosan. The mean MIC for all resistant Vibrionaceae was 53 µg mL-1 (range 3.1-550 µg mL-1), but was significantly different between clades (p < 0.001). The highest mean triclosan MIC was observed in the Splendidus clade (200 µg mL-1; n = 3). Triclosan mean MICs were 68.8 µg mL-1 in the Damselae clade and 45.3 µg mL-1 in the Harveyi clade. The lowest mean MIC was observed in the Cholerae clade with 14.4 µg mL-1, which was primarily represented by clinical strains. There were no significant differences in triclosan MIC among individual species or among environmental strains isolated from different locations. Overall, phenotypic triclosan resistance appears to be widespread across multiple clades of Vibrionaceae.
Application of Island Biogeographic Theory to Streams: Macroinvertebrate Recolonization of the Teton River, Idaho

The Teton River is located in southeastern Idaho and drains the west slope of the Rocky Mountains southwest of Yellowstone National Park (Fig. la). In the mid-1970’s a dam was constructed near the lower end of the river. The dam stood 95 m high and, during its initial filling, retained a volume of 3.10 × 108 m3. One June 5, 1976 the dam failed and released 70% of its volume within 2½h. The resultant wall of water reached 23 m in height near the dam and further downstream, where the water left the canyon in which the dam was located and spread out across the flood plain, it was 15 m high. Discharges near our eventual study area jumped from 30 to 3500 m3/s and velocities exceeded 12 m/s (Ray and Kjelstrom, 1978). About 9.4 km below the dam site, the Teton River splits into North and South Forks (Fig. la). The North Fork was severely damaged by the flood but the adjacent South Fork sustained much less structural upheaval. In order to facilitate channel restoration and bridge replacement, water was diverted from the North Fork in August and the streambed remained dry until mid-December.
SINGLE CUSP ION SOURCE FOR A HIGH CURRENT IMPLANTER

A single cusp ion source has been developed and employed on the E1000 high current ion implanter. A cusp shaped magnetic field produced by permanent magnets is used as source field. The source has many desirable features for ion implanters. It produces over 27 mA of arsenic and phosphorus and 10 mA of boron. It provides long filament life and consumes less gas than a Freeman source does. Plasma density distribution at the exit slit is relatively uniform. There is no need for a massive external electromagnet or a magnet power supply, which makes the source system very compact. A key feature of the source is the prevention of metal or carbon impurities for all species, especially BF2+. The source technology has been accepted among users of high current ion implanters as an alternative to the Freeman source. A description of the basic geometry and parameters of this source, such as beam currents, arc conditions and lifetime, is presented.
Simple implantable wireless sensor platform to measure pressure and force.

Abstract Smart implants have the potential to enable personalized care regimens for patients. However, the integration of smart implants into daily clinical practice is limited by the size and cost of available sensing technology. Passive resonant sensors are an attractive alternative to traditional sensing technologies because they obviate the need for on-sensor signal conditioning or telemetry and are substantially simpler, smaller, less expensive, and more robust than other sensing methods. We have developed a novel simple, passive sensing platform that is adaptable to a variety of applications. Sensors consist of only two disconnected parallel Archimedean spiral coils and an intervening solid dielectric layer. When exposed to force or pressure, the resonant frequency of the circuit shifts which can be measured wirelessly. We fabricated prototype pressure sensors and force sensors and compared their performance to a lumped parameter model which predicts sensor behavior. The sensors exhibited a linear response (R2 > 0.91) to dynamic changes in pressure or force with excellent sensitivity. Experimental data were within 13.3% and 6.2% of the values predicted by the model for force and pressure respectively. Results demonstrate that the sensors can be adapted to measure various measurands through a span of sensitivities and ranges by appropriate selection of the intervening layer.
Guidance on 177Lu-DOTATATE Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy from the Experience of a Single Nuclear Medicine Division

177Lu-DOTATATE is a radiolabeled somatostatin analog that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of somatostatin receptor-positive gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in adults. Radionuclide therapies have been administered for many years within nuclear medicine departments in North America. However, in comparison to other radiotherapies, 177Lu-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy involves more planning, coordination, concomitant medication administration (antiemetic medications and amino acids), and direct patient care. To date, various methods have been used in multiple centers during the NETTER-1 trial and the provision of patient care. As participants in the phase 3 NETTER-1 trial and the subsequent expanded-access program for the administration of 177Lu-DOTATATE studies, as well as recently starting postapproval clinical care, we have administered 61 177Lu-DOTATATE therapies at the time of this manuscript submission (13 in the NETTER-1 trial, 39 in the expanded-access program, and 9 clinically) at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and here share our procedures, personnel training, and workflow to help other centers establish programs for this FDA-approved 177Lu-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy.
Words, Videos, and Popes

ERxamples of video instruction - bad and good - got me wondering about how often we make active, informed choices of communication media. Computers have given us more options. How should we take advantage of them? Ironically, thinking about videos, animations, and other media has made me more aware of the strengths of the written word. Among them is the ability to convey thoughts and ideas, whether deep or whimsical. This column has striven to do just that.
Interleukin-6 is potential target to de-couple checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis from antitumor immunity.

2616Background: A deep understanding of the immunobiology of checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) induced immune related toxicities, such as immune related enterocolitis (irEC), and how these compare to the ...
Evaluation of a Chinese herbal supplement on equine squamous gastric disease and gastric fluid pH in mares

Background Wei Le San (WLS) is a Chinese herbal formula comprised of 9 herbs selected for their putative anti-inflammatory effects. Objectives To evaluate the effects of WLS administration in horses with nonglandular gastric ulcers. Animals Ten mixed breed mares (aged 7-21 years, 401-567 kg body weight). Methods Experimental design was a blinded, prospective, 2-period crossover study. All horses received a placebo (25 mL dextrose-based syrup; n = 10) and the treatment (WLS, 5 g in 25 mL dextrose-based syrup; n = 10), administered twice daily. Horses underwent a 1-week, alternating feed-deprivation period to induce or worsen existing ulcers; treatment began on day 7. Gastroscopic examination was performed on d0, d6, and d35, with gastric fluid pH obtained on d6 and d35. Gastric ulcer scores assigned by 3 masked observers were averaged for each examination. Results Ulcer number scores for horses treated with WLS (median = 0; range, 0-4) was not different from the untreated controls (median = 0.5; range, 0-4; P = .81) by the end of the treatment period. Ulcer severity score for treated horses (median = 0; range, 0-1) was also unchanged compared to the control group (median = 0.5; range, 0-1; P = .85). Gastric pH was not altered by either treatment, with a median of 2.1 (range, 1.9-4.1) for the horses treated with WLS and 2.8 (range, 1.6-7.2) in the untreated controls (P = .46). Conclusions and clinical importance The experimental model used to induce gastric ulceration was unable to discern a difference between the herbal supplement and the placebo in normal horses.
Evaluation of recurrent selection in Leaming and Midland maize populations

Evaluation and selection of exotic maize {Zea mays L.) germplasm are possible methods to achieve greater potential yields. Therefore, enhanced populations of well-chosen exotic germplasm (domestic or foreign) can serve as altemative sources of new inbred lines for hybrid maize improvement. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the direct, indirect, and correlated responses of inbred progeny selection in two U. S. domestic maize landraces and to assess their adaptation to Iowa after selection. Three cycles of 81-82 recurrent selection were performed in Learning, the oldest known U. 8. open-pollinated variety (originated in southwestern Ohio), and Midland Yellow Dent, a variety developed in southeast Kansas. So generations (F = 0) and their Si progenies (F = 0.5) were evaluated in five Iowa environments. Response to selection was effective in both populations. For grain yield, average increases per cycle of selection of 0.28 Mg ha"' (10.1 %) in Learning and 0.22 Mg ha"' (14.9 %) in Midland Yellow Dent were highly significant (P< 0.01). Dominance genetic effects were responsible for the increase in the frequencies of favorable alleles in Learning. Genetic drift was nonsignificant in both populations. Favorable correlated responses were observed in traits that are essential for adaptation. Root lodging decreased 7.0 % cycle"' in Midland Yellow Dent while stalk lodging decreased 3.8 % cycle"' (P< 0.01) in Learning. Plant and ear height followed the same negative linear trend with highly significant responses in both populations. ' Dept. Agronomy, Iowa State Univ., Ames, lA 50011. • Part of a dissertation submitted by the author in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the PhD degree. ^ Corresponding author.
Drivers of selectivity in family firms: Understanding the impact of age and ownership on CSR

Abstract A family firm’s decision to engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a complex one, and many contradictory findings exist to explain why a firm invests in CSR. Socioemotional selectivity theory (SEST) suggests that family firms’ selectivity changes over time, which affects their relationships and therefore their engagement in CSR. To study these effects, we examined 1436 family and non-family firms over an eight-year period to show that ownership structure (family vs. non-family firm) and age drive CSR engagement. While family firms are more likely to invest in CSR activities than non-family firms, we found that as family firms age, this changes. In fact, as family firms age, they become more selective and invest less heavily in CSR activities. Our findings highlight the importance of studying the heterogeneity in firm-level investments in CSR as well as the impact of selectivity on their strategic investments.
The Effects of Smoking on Extensor Mechanism Injury and Post Surgical Complications: A National Database Study:

Objectives:The extensor mechanism of the knee is composed of the quadriceps tendon, the patellar tendon, and the patella. These injuries are associated with several comorbidities including diabetes...
Health Policy: Universal Pre-existing Conditions

The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the essential shared other-interest in public health. Also, the pre-existing conditions debate, too, points to the reality of a universal shared other-interest in dealing with same. Everyone has said conditions: everyone dies. Metaeconomics adds new insights on how to think about balancing the primal self-interest in only one’s own health with the essential need to balance it with the shared other-interest in universally better health for everyone. The Dual Interest Theory clarifies that it is about maximizing the Own-interest in delaying the time until death, possible only by sacrificing a bit in both domains of dual interest. Pragmatically speaking, it leads to suggesting an integrated effort represented in private and public health efforts, including Market and Government provision of both insurance and health care.
Progressive Community Organizing : Transformative Practice in a Globalizing World

Now in its third edition, Progressive Community Organizing: Transformative Practice in a Globalizing World introduces readers to the rich practice of progressive community organizing for social change while also providing concrete tools geared toward practitioner skill building. Drawing from social movement scholarship and social theory, this book articulates a transformative approach to organizing that embraces emergent strategies and healing justice. It emphasizes framing processes and the power of stories using story-based strategy and digital activism. Embracing intersectional organizing, the book addresses topics such as identity politics, microagressions, internalized oppression, and horizontal hostility with attention to recentering and allyship as a growth-oriented journey of solidarity and liberation. Readers will engage with case studies focused on issues such as poverty, racial justice, immigration, housing, health and mental health, and climate crisis. This new edition includes: Expanded content on transformative change approaches including healing justice New content on the role of digital technology and social media in organizing Case studies of the Poor People’s Campaign and Extinction Rebellion Emphasis on the power of stories and story-based strategy for organizing and issue framing Transformative organizations with attention to feminist and decolonized organizational structures and cultures Expanded chapters on strategies and tactics focusing on power analysis and a range of tactics from direct action to resilience-based organizing The book will be of interest to students and practitioners who want to become more skilled in structural analysis, praxis, and self-reflexivity through critical and transformative engagement with historical and current social problems, social movements, and social welfare.
PERSECUTION AND THE ART OF FREEDOM: ALEXIS DE TOCQUEVILLE ON THE IMPORTANCE OF FREE PRESS AND FREE SPEECH IN DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY

According to Tocqueville, the freedom of the press, which he treats as an extension of the freedom of speech, is a primary constituent element of liberty. Tocqueville treats the freedom of the press in relation to and as an extension of the right to assemble and govern one’s own affairs, both of which he argues are essential to preserving liberty in a free society. Although scholars acknowledge the importance of civil associations to liberty in Tocqueville’s political thought, they routinely ignore the importance he places on the freedom of the press and speech. His reflections on the importance of the free press and speech may help to shed light on the dangers of recent attempts to censor the press and speech.
Structural Analysis of Plasmepsin II

Malaria is one of the world’s most devastating diseases, afflicting several hundred million people a year and killing an estimated two million of them, mostly children.1 The etiologic agent is a parasitic protozoan of the genus Plasmodium. The organism causes disease in its intraerythrocytic phase. A prominent feature of its development inside red blood cells is the degradation of hemoglobin. During its short cycle, the parasite consumes nearly all of the host hemoglobin, generating amino acids for its growth and maturation.2 This is a vast catabolic process since hemoglobin constitutes 95% of the soluble red blood cell protein. Degradation occurs in an acidic digestive vacuole and involves a series of proteases. Two aspartic proteases, termed plasmepsins,3′6 and one cysteine protease, called falcipain,4 have been purified from the digestive vacuole and characterized.5 The plasmepsins appear to make an initial attack on the native hemoglobin molecule, which is followed by proteolysis of the large fragments into small peptides by falcipain.5,7 Intact hemoglobin cannot be cleaved by falcipain unless the substrate is first denatured.8 Cysteine protease inhibitors cause osmotic swelling of the digestive vacuole and ultimately death of the parasite,4 perhaps through accumulation of plasmepsin digestion products that are too large to exit the vacuole.8 The products of digestive vacuole proteolysis are small peptides, which appear to be exported for terminal degradation by cytoplasmic expeptidases.
JCMS Annual Lecture: Europe and its Empires: From Rome to the European Union

This article claims that the territorial structure of government results from a tension between scale and community. The benefits of scale arise from the nature of public goods, and include economic exchange, political power and protection against external shocks. Communities are double-edged in that they are characterized by parochial altruism. Altruism and social solidarity facilitate government within communities, but parochial attachments constrain government among communities. Scale and community, as theorized here, provide a setting for strategic choice. Both are in flux as patterns of human interaction change, and government itself shapes those patterns. Evidence is drawn from the five largest polities in the history of western Europe: the Roman Empire, the Frankish Empire, Napoleonic France, the Third Reich and the European Union.
Geometric methods in the representation theory of Hecke algebras and quantum groups

These lectures are mainly based on, and form a condensed survey of the book by N. Chriss and V. Ginzburg, Representation Theory and Complex Geometry, Birkhauser 1997. Various algebras arising naturally in Representation Theory such as the group algebra of a Weyl group, the universal enveloping algebra of a complex semisimple Lie algebra, a quantum group or the Iwahori-Hecke algebra of bi-invariant functions (under convolution) on a p-adic group, are considered. We give a uniform geometric construction of these algebras in terms of homology of an appropriate “Steinberg-type” variety Z (or its modification, such as K-theory or elliptic cohomology of Z, or an equivariant version thereof). We then explain how to obtain a complete classification of finite dimensional irreducible representations of the algebras in question, using our geometric construction and perverse sheaves methods.
Affect and trust

A number of models of trust, particularly vis a vis ecommerce, have been proposed in the literature. While some of these models present intriguing insights, they all assume that trust is based on logical choice. Furthermore, while these models recognize the importance of the subject's perception of reality in its evaluation, none of the proposed models have critically analyzed the nature of affective nature of perception, particularly in light of recent work in neurology and social psychology. This paper examines this concept of affect and then proposes a new, affect-based model in light of modern science. How this new model addresses previous shortcomings is demonstrated. Directions for future research are then proposed.
Physical Thoughts, Biological Systems – The Application of Modeling Principles to Understanding Biological Systems

In the first chapter, we codified the scientific method as a sequential series of models that first organize description, then explanation, and finally experimental verification in a coherent manner. The accurate and effective coding or mapping of a real system (and its description) onto a formal/mathematically cogent system that correctly serves as an abstract model of the real world is the task of the field of systems science. The progression of inquiry is a knowledge operator that supervises the scientific method such that a systems science modeling step is incorporated at each inquiry step. The ideal outcome of this essential scientific enterprise is that the formal system and its behavior can be compared and found to be invariant with the behavior of the real system that it represents. This last requirement is the experimental essence of systems science itself.
The Many Lives of German Labour: A Review Essay

IN THE PAST TWO DECADES, social-historical approaches have made a substantial contribution to the history of the 19thand 20th-century German labour movement. Each of the books under review here carries this general project forward; yet each book also confronts us with quite different, at times, incompatible representations of "the German working-class." Indeed one comes away from reading these five new studies with a troubling question; is there still a "collective subject" whose history German labour historians can continue to write? The skilled metalworkers described by both Neufeld and Bellon lived very different lives, inhabited quite different worlds than the foreign labourers who are the subject of Ulrich Herbert's excellent, original, and much-needed study. Ute Daniel's and Karen Hagemann's pioneering studies clearly show that gender played a major role in structuring working-class experiences, interests, and identities. And Hagemann's book also warns us about the dangers of taking the rhetoric
DISASTROUS ANTI-ECONOMICS AND THE ECONOMICS OF DISASTERS

This article surveys and synthesises some of the research on the political economy of natural disasters. While people tend to support government intervention to reduce prices or otherwise aid disaster recovery, research shows that government organisations are often corrupt and ineffective. Further, since people tend to mis-identify the causes of (for example) gasoline price increases after natural disasters, government intervention after a disaster is likely to do more harm than good.
Increasing Equity and Achievement in Fifth Grade Mathematics: The Contribution of Content Exposure.

This study uses a large nationally representative data set (ECLS-K) of 5,181 students to examine the extent to which exposure to content and instructional practice contributes to mathematics achievement in fifth grade. Using hierarchical linear modeling, results suggest that more exposure to content beyond numbers and operations (i.e., geometry, algebra, measurement, and data analysis) contribute to student mathematics achievement, but there is no main effect for increased exposure on developing numbers and operations. Two significant interactions between exposure to specific content and racial composition of the classroom emerge. Specifically, as exposure to more diverse content increases, the classroom mathematics achievement gap among students in predominately Caucasian classrooms and those composed predominately of students of color appears to narrow. Findings are discussed with regard to promoting increased opportunities to learn mathematics for students in racially diverse classrooms.
Model-based estimates of the finite population mean for two-stage cluster samples with unit non-response

Summary. We propose new model-based methods for unit non-response in two-stage survey samples. A commonly used design-based adjustment weights respondents by the inverse of the estimated response rate in each cluster (method WT). This approach is consistent if the response probabilities are constant within clusters but is potentially inefficient when the estimated cluster response rates are very variable. Clusters can be collapsed to increase precision, but this may introduce bias.We consider here the model-based approach to survey inference that treats the clusters as random effects. We note that, from a model-based perspective, a missing data mechanism that assumes that the response rate varies across clusters is non-ignorable, and we propose the term cluster-specific non-ignorable (CSNI) non-response to describe this mechanism. We show that the standard random-effects model estimator RE of the population mean is biased under CSNI non-response, and we propose two modifications of RE to correct this bias. One approach includes the observed response rate as a cluster level covariate (method RERR), and the other is based on a probit model for response (method NI1).The RERR approach is simpler than NI1 but approximate, in that uncertainty in estimating the response rates is not taken into account. In addition, a simple method that corrects the bias of RE by reweighting (method RWRE) is also discussed. We show by simulations that estimators from RERR and NI1 can correct the bias of RE under CSNI non-response and have comparable or lower root-mean-squared error than WT in a variety of simulation settings, and RWRE has similar performance to WT. We also consider another non-ignorable response model estimate of the population mean (NI2) that removes the bias of WT, RWRE, RERR and NI1 under an outcome-specific non-ignorable response mechanism where non-response depends directly on the individual level survey outcomes. However, that estimate is not robust to model misspecification. The various methods are compared on a data set from the Detroit Dental Health Project.
The effect of duration of exposure on systematic desensitization and extinction

Abstract An important variable which has only recently received attention (Proctor, 1968; Watts, 1971) is the influence of intra-item exposure time to aversive stimuli on systematic desensitization. Long single exposure to hierarchy items was more effective in reducing avoidance behavior than short exposure (Ross and Proctor, 1973). It is possible, therefore, for duration of exposure to be a confounding variable in previous desensitization research. In studies where exposure only conditions were ineffective (Davison, 1968; Lomont and Edwards, 1967), the visualization time was less than 15 sec. Successful utilization of extinction-like procedures employed longer exposure times (Vodde and Gilner, 1971 for 20–30 sec; Crowder and Thornton, 1970 for 30 sec; Sue, 1972 for 20 sec; Nawas, Welsch and Fishman, 1970 for 60 sec: Wolpin and Raines, 1966 for up to 10 min). Intra-item exposure time may also account for the discrepant findings on the influence of cognitive variables on the efficacy of systematic desensitization. In the studies where expectations or therapeutic instructions were important (Leitenberg et al. , 1969; Valins and Ray, 1967), subjects were exposed to aversive stimuli for 10–15 sec. Where positive expectations were unimportant, the exposure time was longer (McGlynn and Mapp, 1970 for 20–30 sec; McGlynn, Gaynor and Puhr, 1972 for 20–30 sec; McGlynn, Reynolds and Linder, 1971 for 20–40 sec; Lomont and Brock, 1971 for 60 sec). Therapeutic expectations, relaxation, and other variables may assume importance during periods of short exposure. So far, there has been no adequate investigation of intra-item exposure time on both extinction and desensitization. The procedures employed by Watts (1971) and Proctor (1968) do not allow such a comparison to be made. The purpose of the present study is to examine the influence of short (5 sec) and lengthy (30 sec) exposure to aversive stimuli on extinction and desensitization conditions. In line with the results of Davison (1968) and Lomont and Edwards (1967), it was predicted that exposure of short duration would be less effective than exposure of longer duration under the extinction condition (Vodde and Gilner, 1971 ; Crowder and Thronton, 1970; Nawas et al. , 1970; Wolpin and Raines, 1966). No specific predictions were made on the desensitization groups. There were four experimental groups: (1) two exposure only groups (visualization for either 5 sec or 30 sec), and (2) two systematic desensitization groups (visualization for 5 sec or 30 sec). A no-treatment control group was also employed.
Plasmonic Dicke effect

We study cooperative emission by an ensemble of emitters, such as fluorescing molecules or semiconductor quantum dots, near a metal nanoparticle. The primary mechanism of cooperative emission is resonant energy transfer between emitters and plasmons rather than Dicke radiative coupling between emitters. The emission is dominated by three superradiant states with the same quantum yield as a single emitter, leading to a drastic reduction of ensemble radiated energy down to just thrice of that by a single emitter, the remaining energy being dissipated in the metal through subradiant states. We perform numerical calculations of system eigenstates and find that the plasmonic Dicke effect interactions affect is not impacted by the interactions between emitters or non-radiative losses in the metal.
The co-precipitation of vacancies and carbon atoms in quenched platinum

Abstract The geometry of secondary defect structures observed in quenched platinum containing various amounts of carbon is shown to be consistent with a simple model based on the premise of a strong impurity (carbon) atom/vacancy binding energy. When the ratio of carbon atoms to vacancies (Cc/Cv) is large, co-precipitation as platelets on {100} planes occurs; whereas when Cc/Cv is small, the effects of carbon are still manifest; the defect geometry is dominated by the vacancy behavior, and loops on {111} planes form. Consideration of the mechanism of defect formation on {100} planes leads to conclusions about the structure of the carbon atom/vacancy complex, its migration and stability. An electron microscopy analysis of the {100} defects is in excellent accord with the proposed model. Implications concerning the likely behavior of carbon atoms in a radiation environment are considered, and an interstitial impurity solute segregation effect to vacancy sinks is predicted.
Prospective trials of angiotensin receptor blockers: beyond blood pressure control.

Current knowledge implicating the involvement of angiotensin II in both the development of hypertension and the pathophysiology of congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, and vascular disease will open the door for more clinical trials involving angiotensin receptor blockers. Current and future studies should clearly answer the question of whether these drugs will play a major role in reducing morbidity and mortality from these diseases. If possible, these studies should attempt to further explain the role of angiotensin II and its receptors in the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Seed Ecology of Woody Species in a Caribbean Dry Forest

Peak flowering activity among woody species in the tropical dry forests of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, coincided with the brief spring rainy season but continued at moderate levels for six months, abating with the autumn rains. Fruit maturation showed a major peak in the long winter dry season and a minor crest during the summer dry season. Seeds of wind-dispersed species disseminated mainly during the winter dry season, while animal dispersal of seeds (74% of all woody species) followed the bimodal pattern (for wet and dry seasons) described for the community as a whole. Under shadehouse conditions, most dry forest tree species germinated well (> 80%) and emerged promptly (within four weeks of planting) and synchronously (90% emergence within a four-week interval). Nine of 29 species tested in the shadehouse manifested dormancy of at least six weeks. Seed germinability varied among tree species, and the viability of most species began to decline following six months of dry storage. Few species retained high germinability after nine months of dry storage. The species composition of soil seed banks did not correspond closely with above-ground communities on three forested sites of varying stand age. In the youngest stand (35 years old), dominated by the weedy, arborescent legume Leucaena leucocephala, the soil seed bank was also dominated by this species, but no seeds of any other tree species were found in the soil samples. Seeds of native trees were scarcely encountered (only one indigenous species) in soil seed bank samples of three forest sites. Local seed rain from less disturbed forest may not be sufficient for prompt recovery of the dry forest community on degraded sites.
A Mental Measures Classification System for Noncommercially Produced Research Instruments

Psychometric tests are available through both commercial and non-commercial sources. The Mental Measurements Yearbook provides adequate classification of the commercially available instruments which it reviews, but the system lacks the detail required to embrace the many concepts of the little-known experimental measures constructed by researchers in education, psychology, and sociology. The 24-category classification system described here is an attempt to order the myriad noncommercially constructed instruments and in so doing make these measures known to researchers
Elemental particle-size emissions from coal-fired power plants: Use of an inertial cascade impactor

Abstract Coal-fly-ash particles collected on coated and uncoated impaction substrates were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques in combination with instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) to verify the sizes of particles collected and their elemental composition to estimate the significance of bounce-off and reentrainment onto back-up filters and to evaluate wall and interstage losses for the University of Washington MK III Source Test Cascade Impactor. Particles were analyzed for a total of 39 elements. In samples collected downstream from an electrostatic precipitator (ESP), particles on upper impactor stages were much smaller than indicated by impactor 50% cut-off diameters given for the impactor, which resulted in significant differences in the measured aerosol-distribution parameters of the total particulate mass and of the mass of constituent elements. On the back-up filters, large particles (i.e. aerodynamic diameter ⪢ 2 μm) including those from bounce-off and reentrainment accounted for more than 90% of the total mass, 20–30% of the volatile species of Mo, As, Sb and Se, and all of the refractory elements. Wall and interstage losses of most elements were estimated to be about 40% by mass. Bounce-off and reentrainment onto back-up filters was only slightly reduced for small (aerodynamic diameter
Racial Discrimination: An American Employment Dilemma

In 1989, the Cleveland based law firm Reminger and Reminger in conjunction with the Personnel Journal conducted a survey on Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) issues facing America. This survey focused on various types of EEO complaints (Reminger, 1991). Of the 653 corporations who participated in the study, approximately 18% reported racial discrimination as their number one EEO problem. The survey revealed that race discrimination complaints were the highest among the government and manufacturing sectors (Reminger, 1991). In the 1990s, racial inequality continues to be of primary concern.
Everything Is Relative in Spacecraft System Alignment Calibration

The concepts of absolute and relative alignment calibration of spacecraft attitude sensors are examined. It is known that three degrees of freedom of attitude associated with absolute alignment calibration are unobservable unless payload data are processed. It is shown that an absolute alignment model is equivalent to a relative alignment model when the payload is regarded as an attitude sensor. Then it is shown that the three unobservable degrees of freedom are eliminated by defining the gyro as the body reference frame, attributing only three nonorthogonal misalignment parameters to the gyro. The payload misalignment can then be parameterized and calibrated in the same manner as any attitude sensor, or this can be left strictly to the payload data processing, thus creating a well-defined boundary between attitude control system calibration and payload calibration. The new parameterization introduced is illustrated via simulation results.