cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protocol testing methdology development at NBS

The National Bureau of Standards has three primary goals in computer networking.1. To develop networking and protocol standards which meet U.S. Government and industry requirements and will be implemented in off-the-shelf, commercial products.2. To develop testing methodologies to support the development and implementation of computer network protocols; and3. To assist Government and industry users in the application of advanced networking technologies, and computer and communication manufacturers, in the implementation of standard protocols.To support these objectives, NBS has laboratory activities where prototypes of draft protocol standards are implemented and tested in a variety of communications environments (e.g. global networks, local networks, office systems networks), supporting different applications (e.g. file transfer, message processing), on difference kinds and sizes of computers. The primary purposes are to advance the state of the art in measurement methodologies for advanced computer networking technologies, and to determine protocol implementation correctness and performance.NBS views testing as a cooperative research effort and works with other agencies, private sector companies and other countries in the development of methodologies. At this time, this cooperation involves five network laboratories in other countries and over 20 computer manufacturers.The test methodologies developed at NBS are well documented and the testing tools themselves are developed with an objective of portability and made available to many organizations engaged in protocol development and implementations.Consistent with goals, NBS standards developments, research in testing methodologies, and technical assistance are characterized by direct industry/government cooperation and mutual support.
Estimation and prediction of oceanic Eddy fields

Abstract A system for the optimal estimation and forecasting synoptic/mesoscale ocean currents is presented consisting of an observational system, a statistical model and a dynamical model. The methodology is developed for the case when the dynamical model is a baroclinic, quasigeostrophic open-ocean model. Issues involved include the synoptic and regular gridding of asynoptic non-uniform data, the construction of composite fields from several data types, and the initialization and verification of the dynamical model. Models for the error fields required for weighted combinations of independent field estimates are obtained from the analysis of an observational model; a barotropic example is presented. The statistical model is applied to the POLYMODE Synoptic-Dynamic Experiment (SDE) XBT and current meter data which is successfully assimilated in the dynamical model. Dynamical forecasting experiments are carried out and the difference fields between analysis fields and forecast fields are studied and attributed to: error sources in the analysis, in initial and boundary data, and to the dynamical adjustment of those fields by the model. Quantitative results indicate that useful accuracies can be efficiently obtained.
A note on the diffusion of electrolytes in cells

A somewhat simpler solution is given to the problem previously discussed by R. R. Williamson relating to the diffusion of a metabolized electrolyte whose ions have different mobilities.
Estradiol-induced vaginal mucus inhibits antigen penetration and CD8(+) T cell priming in response to intravaginal immunization.

Abstract Although vaginal immunization has been explored as a strategy to induce mucosal immunity in the female reproductive tract, this site displays unique immunological features that probably evolved to inhibit anti-paternal T cell responses after insemination to allow successful pregnancy. We previously demonstrated that estradiol, which induces an estrus-like state, prevented CD8 + T cell priming during intravaginal immunization of mice. We now show that estradiol prevented antigen loading of vaginal antigen presenting cells (APCs) after intravaginal immunization. Histological examination confirmed that estradiol prevented penetration of peptide antigen into the vaginal wall. Removal of the estradiol-induced mucus barrier by mucinase partially restored antigen loading of vaginal APC and CD8 + T cell proliferation in vivo . The estradiol-induced mucus barrier may thus prevent exposure to antigens delivered intravaginally, supplementing additional estradiol-dependent mechanism(s) that inhibit CD8 + T cell priming after insemination or vaginal vaccination.
Phonon-assisted diffusion and electromigration of light interstitials in metals.

We present a microscopic description of phonon-assisted diffusion of light interstitial impurities in metals including migration in the presence of an electron current (electromigration). The approach is self-consistent without separation into two parts (atom diffusion and electron scattering) and is appropriate for the regime of incoherent nonadiabatic atom hopping between polaron-type states at adjacent interstices. A general expression is obtained in the linear-response approximation for both the diffusion and the electron conduction contributions to atomic current. The atom current is shown to be related to an effective driving force through a Nernst-Einstein expression, and this driving force is shown to be the sum of a direct force and a wind force from the electron flow. The wind force in the general case is not determined by the Fiks-Huntington ballistic-model expression but decreases rapidly with the quantity ${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{F}}$d, where ${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{F}}$ is the electron Fermi momentum and d is the hopping distance. This decrease is due to strong recoil effects associated with momentum transfer to the lattice. Our results do not require the validity of the Condon approximation of small-polaron theory.
The Postlarvae of Scyllarides Astori and Evibacus Princeps of the Eastern Tropical Pacific (Decapoda, Scyllaridae)

Die Postlarven (Nisto) von Scyllarides astori und Evibacus princeps werden beschrieben und abgebildet. Ein Individuum von S. astori wurde ungefahr 1700 Seemeile westlich der Galapagos Inseln im Plankton gefangen. Sehr wahrscheinlich war es von den Galapagos Inseln mit dem Sudaquatorialstrom als Larve dorthin getrieben worden. Die uberbruckte Entfernung ist viel zu klein, als dass die treibenden Larven eine Besiedlung der mittelpazifischen Inseln westlich der "Ostpazifischen Barriere" ermoglichen konnte. Andere Nisto Stadien wurden bei den Galapagos Inseln gefangen. E. princeps wurde im Magen eines Tunfisches (Thunnus thynnus) vor der Westkuste von Panama gefunden.
Dielectric constant measurements of nanoscale thickness polymeric films

Nanoscale polymeric films were fabricated on Al coated glass slides using a spin coater. The thicknesses of the films (anti-reflective coatings - ARC) were 350 nm, 240 nm and 195 nm obtained at 1500 rpm, 3000 rpm and 4500 rpm, respectively. Measurement electrodes were fabricated on the ARC films using silver epoxy. Capacitance tests conducted at 1 mV and 15% relative humidity were used to determine the dielectric constant of the films over various temperature and frequency ranges. Based on the test results, it is assumed that this is a very useful technique to accurately and easily measure the capacitance and dielectric constant values of nanothickness polymeric films.
Time perception of short intervals during finished, unfinished and empty task situations

This investigation studied the effect of finished, unfinished and empty task situations in the perception of three short time intervals for men and women. The major results show that Ss tend to overestimate time when they are unoccupied and underestimate time when they are occupied. Significant differences occurred between the three short intervals of time, as well as, all interactions. No sex differences were found between the total responses, however, men estimated time better and women were influenced more by the tasks.
Computationally efficient Neural Network Intrusion Security Awareness

An enhanced version of an algorithm to provide anomaly based intrusion detection alerts for cyber security state awareness is detailed. A unique aspect is the training of an error back-propagation neural network with intrusion detection rule features to provide a recognition basis. Ethernet network packet details are subsequently provided to the trained network to produce a classification. This leverages rule knowledge sets to produce classifications for anomaly based systems. Several test cases executed on ICMP protocol revealed a 60% identification rate of true positives. This rate matched the previous work, but 70% less memory was used and the run time was reduced to less than 1 second from 37 seconds.
A source of polarized ions

Abstract A preliminary model of a source of polarized ions has been built in order to evaluate the feasibility and limitations of such an apparatus as an accelerator source. A current of 10−4 μA of polarized deuterons has been produced and the alignment demonstrated by observation of anisotropic neutron yield from the T(d, n)He4 reaction. Experimental problems are discussed.
Religious Non-involvement Among African Americans, Black Caribbeans and Non-hispanic Whites: Findings from the National Survey of American Life

This study examines the association between race/ethnicity, socio-demographic characteristics, and religious non-involvement among a national sample of African Americans, Black Caribbeans and Non-Hispanic Whites. The relationship between religious non-involvement and selected measures of religious participation, spirituality, religious coping is also examined. The study utilizes data from a national multi-stage probability sample, the National Survey of American Life (n = 6,082). Very few individuals, <1 out of 20 respondents, both never attended religious services and have no current denomination. Overall, <8 % have never attended religious services since the age of 18. Both African Americans and Black Caribbeans were significantly less likely than non-Hispanic Whites to report never attending religious services and not having a current denomination. The greater reliance upon religious institutions for support and guidance among African Americans and Black Caribbean Americans relative to Non-Hispanic Whites may help explain the importance of race in predicting religious non-involvement. Women, married persons, Southerners, and the more highly educated are significantly more likely to be involved in religion. Finally, this study indicates that the religiously non-involved are less likely than others to participate in religious activities, to identify as spiritual, and to rely upon religion to cope with trying circumstances. Nonetheless, even respondents who never attend religious services and do not have a denomination still report some level of religious participation along with relatively high levels of religious coping. We posit that religious non-involvement is less indicative of apostasy, but rather likely reflects a critique of organized religion.
Galactocerebrosidase from human urine: Purification and partial characterization

Abstract Galactocerebrosidase (GALC, EC 3.2.1.46) was purified from human urine by a series of hydrophobic affinity column chromatography steps. The activity was enriched 176000-fold from concentrated urine by only four columns, including octyl Sepharose, hydroxylapatite, butyl Sepharose and ethyl-agarose. The overall recovery was about 20% but only low amounts were obtained due to its low abundance. The estimated final specific activities of several batches were between 1 and 2 mmol/h per mg protein. The final purified fractions were essentially free of other lysosomal enzyme activities. The most pure fractions showed a series of bands between 50 and 53 kDa on sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis which were determined to have identical N-terminal amino acid sequence. In addition, gel filtration of partially purified GALC after disassociation showed one peak of activity estimated to have a molecular mass near 50 kDa. GALC was also purified from human brain and human placenta using the same methods demonstrating the usefulness of this procedure in obtaining GALC from solid human tissues. In addition to the bands migrating near 50 kDa from urine, there were also bands at 80 kDa and 30 kDa in some preparations. By N-terminal sequencing and the use of antipeptide antibodies, the 80 kDa band was demonstrated to have the same N-terminal amino acids as the 50−53 kDa bands. The 30 kDa band had a unique sequence. The relationship between the different molecular weight species remains to be determined. The purification of GALC and the securing of amino acid sequence information will aid in the cloning of the GALC gene. This enzyme is deficient in human patients with Krabbe disease and several animal species.
Characterization of CsI photocathodes for use in a fast RICH detector

We have completed a series of measurements that provide a basic understanding of the properties of CsI photocathodes for use in ring imaging Cherenkov (RICH) detectors. The quantum efficiency of CsI has been measured relative to an NIST-calibrated photodiode and is in excellent agreement with a similar measurement by Breskin et al. A representative value of the quantum efficiency is 20% at 180 nm. The quantum efficiency of a fresh photocathode is unaffected by temperature, but heating the photocathode can be helpful if it has been exposed to water vapor, or has been aged by a large integrated photocurrent. Detailed studies of aging show a “fast” component that appears to be associated with a rise in the work function, and a “slow” component associated with conversion of the bulk CsI to Cs. We judge that a practical lifetime of a CsI photocathode is until it has lost 20% of its initial quantum efficiency, which process is dominated by the “fast” rise in the work function. This rise occurs both due to photoelectron transport with an effective lifetime of 0.1 μC/mm2 and due to positive-ion bombardment with an effective lifetime of 15 μC/mm2. When the CsI photocathode is used in a chamber with gas gain greater than 150 the latter lifetime is the relevant one. This lifetime should be sufficient for use of a RICH detector at an e+e− B factory. The reduction of quantum efficiency of a CsI photocathode in a gas-filled chamber has been studied for several gases over a wide range of reduced electric field. This effect can be minimized by use of atmospheric-pressure methane in a chamber with anode wires rather than a mesh. We have also demonstrated that excellent spatial resolution for the location of the photoelectrons can be obtained using a coarse cathode-pad readout if the anode-cathode spacing is similar to the pad width.
A New Social Perspective on Disability and Its Implications for Rehabilitation

As disabled people become more active and vocal in asserting their rights, they are sharing important information about the experience of disability in our society. In fact, they are challenging the defintions and models of disability traditionally utilized in rehabilitation practice. This paper contrasts the traditional medical model of disability with a new interactional or socio-political model. The experience of disability is examined in the context of disabled people's minority group status. Also discussed are the efforts of disabled persons to fashion a positive identity and sense of cultural pride. Arguments are presented for addressing the social aspects of disability in rehabilitation.
Reactive Ion Etching of Sputter Deposited Tantalum Oxide and Its Etch Selectivity to Tantalum

Reactive ion etching of the sputter deposited tantalum oxide has been studied. Process parameters that affect the etch rate, such as the power, pressure, and temperature, were investigated in a wide range of conditions. Etch selectivities between tantalum and tantalum oxide in various processes have been examined. By exchanging one F atom in the molecule or one Cl atom in the molecule with one H atom, we can reverse the etch selectivity. Structures of the etched surfaces were characterized with the electron spectroscope for chemical analysis. Comparisons of chemical structures of the etched and unetched surfaces were carried out. Etch mechanisms of different plasma processes have been suggested from these comparisons.
Robust emulation of shared memory using dynamic quorum-acknowledged broadcasts

The paper presents a robust emulation of multi-writer/multireader registers in message-passing systems using dynamic quorum configurations. In addition to processor and link failures, this emulation tolerates changes in quorum configurations, i.e., on-line replacements of one quorum system consisting of read and write quorums with another such system. The new emulation is specified using a modular two-layer architecture. The lower layer uses unreliable broadcast to disseminate a client request to a set of processors, and then to collect responses from a subset of the processors. The higher layer emulates robust multi-writer/multi-reader registers where quorum configurations are used to ensure register atomicity. A unique feature of the read/write service is that it implements dynamically changing quorum configurations. The processor designated as the reconfigured executes requests that replace the current configuration with a new configuration. The combination of the higher and lower layers allows essentially unlimited concurrency and does not involve locks. Waiting can occur only due to processor or link failures that disconnect at least one processor in each read quorum or at least one processor in each write quorum of the specified configurations. Additional computation and communication overhead can be incurred by the read and write operations when they encounter frequent reconfigurations. The algorithms are specified here in terms of I/O automata and their correctness is proved using invariants and partial-order methods.
Dry-ice (CO2) trap for efficient field collection of Ornithodoros coriaceus (Acarina: Argasidae).

Ornithodoros coriaceus Koch is widely distributed in coastal and mountainous regions of California and Mexico. This tick lives in the substrate under tree and chaparral species that serve as cover for deer and range cattle, its principal hosts. Data on the distribution and density of this tick are difficult to obtain because nymphs and adults feed rapidly, within 15 to 25 min., and drop off unnoticed; larvae, which remain on their hosts for 7 to 10 days, do not normally feed on man (Loomis, 1959, J. Parasitol. 47 : 91–99). Therefore, surveys must be confined largely to methods for collecting the tick from the soil and vegetative habitat it occupies between host feedings.
The Turn Team: A Novel Strategy for Reducing Pressure Ulcers in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit

Background Pressure ulcers cause significant morbidity and mortality in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU). The purpose of this study was to determine if a dedicated team tasked with turning and repositioning all hemodynamically stable SICU patients could decrease the formation of pressure ulcers. Study Design A total of 507 patients in a 20-bed SICU in a university hospital were assessed for pressure ulcers using a point prevalence strategy, between December 2008 and September 2010, before and after implementation of a team tasked with turning and repositioning all hemodynamically stable patients every 2 hours around the clock. Results At baseline, when frequent turning was encouraged but not required, a total of 42 pressure ulcers were identified in 278 patients. After implementation of the turn team, a total of 12 pressure ulcers were identified in 229 patients (p Conclusions A team dedicated to turning SICU patients every 2 hours dramatically decreased the incidence of pressure ulcers. The majority of stage I and stage II ulcers appear to be preventable with an aggressive intervention aimed at pressure ulcer prevention.
The Cerebral Response during Subjective Choice with and without Self-reference

The anterior medial prefrontal (AMPFC) and retrosplenial (RSC) cortices are active during self-referential decision-making tasks such as when participants appraise traits and abilities, or current affect. Other appraisal tasks requiring an evaluative decision or mental representation, such as theory of mind and perspective-taking tasks, also involve these regions. In many instances, these types of decisions involve a subjective opinion or preference, but also a degree of ambiguity in the decision, rather than a strictly veridical response. However, this ambiguity is generally not controlled for in studies that examine self-referential decision-making. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging experiment with 17 healthy adults, we examined neural processes associated with subjective decision-making with and without an overt self-referential component. The task required subjective decisions about colors—regarding self-preference (internal subjective decision) or color similarity (external subjective decision) under conditions where there was no objectively correct response. Results indicated greater activation in the AMPFC, RSC, and caudate nucleus during internal subjective decision-making. The findings suggest that self-referential processing, rather than subjective judgments among ambiguous response alternatives, accounted for the AMPFC and RSC response.
Functional Regulatory Divergence of the Innate Immune System in Interspecific Drosophila Hybrids

In order to investigate divergence of immune regulation among Drosophila species, we have engaged in a study of innate immune function in F1 hybrids of Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans. If pathways have diverged between the species such that incompatibilities have arisen between interacting components of the immune network, we expect the hybrids to display dysregulation of immune genes. We have quantified gene induction in hybrid and parental flies in response to bacterial infection. These results show that although the hybrids do not suffer widespread immune breakdown, they show significantly different regulation of many immune genes relative to the parents. We examine this divergence in terms of additivity and expression differences among genes, observing distinct patterns of dysregulation among functional groups within the pathways of the innate immune system. The functional groups most sensitive to misexpression in the hybrids are the downstream components of the network, indicative of some propagation of dysregulation throughout the immune pathways. Interestingly, this dysregulation does not appear to associate with phenotypic differences in bacterial load after infection in hybrids, possibly highlighting some robustness of function of the innate immune response to perturbations like hybridization.
Local and landscape scale factors influencing edge effects on woodland salamanders

We examined local and landscape-scale variable influence on the depth and magnitude of edge effects on woodland salamanders in mature mixed mesophytic and northern hardwood forest adjacent to natural gas well sites maintained as wildlife openings. We surveyed woodland salamander occurrence from June–August 2006 at 33 gas well sites in the Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia. We used an information-theoretic approach to test nine a priori models explaining landscape-scale effects on woodland salamander capture proportion within 20 m of field edge. Salamander capture proportion was greater within 0–60 m than 61–100 m of field edges. Similarly, available coarse woody debris proportion was greater within 0–60 m than 61–100 m of field edge. Our ASPECT model, that incorporated the single variable aspect, received the strongest support for explaining landscape-scale effects on salamander capture proportion within 20 m of opening edge. The ASPECT model indicated that fewer salamanders occurred within 20 m of opening edges on drier, hotter southwestern aspects than in moister, cooler northeastern aspects. Our results suggest that forest habitat adjacent to maintained edges and with sufficient cover still can provide suitable habitat for woodland salamander species in central Appalachian mixed mesophytic and northern hardwood forests. Additionally, our modeling results support the contention that edge effects are more severe on southwesterly aspects. These results underscore the importance of distinguishing among different edge types as well as placing survey locations within a landscape context when investigating edge impacts on woodland salamanders.
Win-stay, lose-switch and public information strategies for patch fidelity of songbirds with rare extra-pair paternity

Determining where organisms breed and understanding why they breed in particular locations are fundamental biological questions with conservation implications. Breeding-site fidelity is common in migratory, territorial songbirds and is typically thought to occur following reproductive success with a social mate and success of nearby conspecifics. It is currently unknown if frequency of extra-pair paternity in a population influences use of information about reproductive success of nearby conspecifics for site fidelity decisions. We investigated patch fidelity of white-eyed vireos (Vireo griseus) based on reproductive success and quantified frequency of extra-pair paternity. We found support only for females making patch fidelity decisions following reproductive success with a social mate. Patch fidelity of males was not associated with reproductive success of nearby conspecifics, suggesting males may not use this information when extra-pair paternity is infrequent or the association is non-existent in this species.
When will the unaffected seek justice for others? Perceptions of and responses to another's injustice

Despite the plethora of research on perceptions of and responses to personal injustices, fewer studies have examined the reactions of those who observe another's injustice. This study extends work ...
Mosaic isochromosome 8p

Findings in a patient with mosaic isochromosome 8p are compared with those of previously reported cases. There were no distinguishing findings on physical examination; all had cognitive delays, especially in speech and language development.
Hepatitis C Virus Replicates in the Same Immune Cell Subsets in Chronic Hepatitis C and Occult Infection

Background & Aims: Infection of the lymphatic system by hepatitis C virus (HCV) appears to be an intrinsic characteristic of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and low-level (occult) HCV infection, but the subsets of immune cells involved were not defined. The aim of this study was to characterize HCV replication status and to assess virus compartmentalization in CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, B cells, and monocytes in CHC, and silent infection persisting after resolution of hepatitis C. Methods: Immune cell subtypes isolated from 7 patients with CHC and 7 individuals with occult infection were analyzed for HCV-RNA–positive and –negative strands and, in selected cases, nonstructural protein 5A display and HCV variants. Results: All subtypes of immune cells investigated support HCV replication in both forms of infection, although significant differences were found between patients, and virus loads in the cells were greater in CHC than in occult infection. Although HCV RNA occurred at a comparable frequency in all cell subtypes in CHC, monocytes contained the greatest loads. In contrast, B cells tended to carry the highest virus quantities in occult infection, whereas monocytes appeared to be the least frequently infected. Detection of HCV nonstructural protein 5A and HCV variants that were not found in plasma confirmed virus replication in different immune cell types. Conclusions: This work documents that the immune system supports HCV replication regardless of clinical appearance of infection and identifies immune cells that are reservoirs of HCV in symptomatic and occult infections.
X-ray absorption spectroscopy studies of electrochemically deposited thin oxide films

We have utilized ''in situ'' X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy to investigate the structure and composition of thin oxide films of nickel and iron that have been prepared by electrodeposition on a graphite substrate from aqueous solutions. The films are generally disordered. Structural information has been obtained from the analysis of the data. We also present initial findings on the local structure of heavy metal ions, e.g. Sr and Ce, incorporated into the electrodeposited nickel oxide films. Our results are of importance in a number of technological applications, among them, batteries, fuel cells, electrochromic and ferroelectric materials, corrosion protection, as well as environmental speciation and remediation.
How Immersive Is Enough? A Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Immersive Technology on User Presence

The concept of presence, or “being there” is a frequently emphasized factor in immersive mediated environments. It is often assumed that greater levels of immersive quality elicit higher levels of presence, in turn enhancing the effectiveness of a mediated experience. To investigate this assumption the current meta-analysis synthesizes decades of empirical research examining the effect of immersive system technology on user experiences of presence. Aggregating 115 effect sizes from 83 studies, it finds that technological immersion has a medium-sized effect on presence. Additionally, results show that increased levels of user-tracking, the use of stereoscopic visuals, and wider fields of view of visual displays are significantly more impactful than improvements to most other immersive system features, including quality of visual and auditory content. These findings are discussed in light of theoretical accounts of the presence construct as well as practical implications for design.
The trafficking of the cellulose synthase complex in higher plants.

Background Cellulose is an important constituent of plant cell walls in a biological context, and is also a material commonly utilized by mankind in the pulp and paper, timber, textile and biofuel industries. The biosynthesis of cellulose in higher plants is a function of the cellulose synthase complex (CSC). The CSC, a large transmembrane complex containing multiple cellulose synthase proteins, is believed to be assembled in the Golgi apparatus, but is thought only to synthesize cellulose when it is localized at the plasma membrane, where CSCs synthesize and extrude cellulose directly into the plant cell wall. Therefore, the delivery and endocytosis of CSCs to and from the plasma membrane are important aspects for the regulation of cellulose biosynthesis. Scope Recent progress in the visualization of CSC dynamics in living plant cells has begun to reveal some of the routes and factors involved in CSC trafficking. This review highlights the most recent major findings related to CSC trafficking, provides novel perspectives on how CSC trafficking can influence the cell wall, and proposes potential avenues for future exploration.
Loss of AKAP150 perturbs distinct neuronal processes in mice

A-Kinase Anchoring Proteins (AKAPs) ensure the fidelity of second messenger signaling events by directing protein kinases and phosphatases toward their preferred substrates. AKAP150 brings protein kinase A (PKA), the calcium/calmodulin dependent phosphatase PP2B and protein kinase C (PKC) to postsynaptic membranes where they facilitate the phosphorylation dependent modulation of certain ion channels. Immunofluorescence and electrophysiological recordings were combined with behavioral analyses to assess whether removal of AKAP150 by gene targeting in mice changes the signaling environment to affect excitatory and inhibitory neuronal processes. Mislocalization of PKA in AKAP150 null hippocampal neurons alters the bidirectional modulation of postsynaptic AMPA receptors with concomitant changes in synaptic transmission and memory retention. AKAP150 null mice also exhibit deficits in motor coordination and strength that are consistent with a role for the anchoring protein in the cerebellum. Loss of AKAP150 in sympathetic cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons reduces muscarinic suppression of inhibitory M currents and provides these animals with a measure of resistance to seizures induced by the non-selective muscarinic agonist pilocarpine. These studies argue that distinct AKAP150-enzyme complexes regulate context-dependent neuronal signaling events in vivo.
Influence of Radiation Dose on the Level of F1 Sterility in the Cactus Moth, Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Abstract We examined inherited sterility effects on the F1 and F2 generations of the cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) after gamma sterilization. Our objectives were to identify the dose of gamma radiation that would fully sterilize F1-generation moths and result in no viable offspring when F1 males were inbred- or out-crossed to fertile females, and that would allow maximum production of F1 sterile C. cactorum adults by irradiated males. Newly emerged adults of C. cactorum were exposed to increasing doses of gamma radiation and inbred or out-crossed to fertile counterparts. Inherited effects resulting from irradiation of males and females were expressed in the F1 generation as reduced egg hatch, increased developmental time for the F1 egg, and increased F1 larval to adult mortality. These effects were most pronounced when parental adults were irradiated at 200 Gy. Survival of F1-generation offspring originating from irradiated male × fertile female crosses was greatest at 200 Gy. In addition, inb...
Complementary Meta-Analytic Methods for the Quantitative Review of Research: 2. An Extended Illustration

In Figueredo, Black, and Scott (this issue), we presented the rationale for a complementary meta-analytic method to accompany traditional effects meta-analytic procedures. Here, we provide an example using Contents Meta-Analysis so that readers can become familiar with the application of the method and the implications of its use. This illustration will be presented in two major sections. First, we will describe an empirical example of a meta-analysis on retention in higher education where a Contents Meta-Analysis was conducted. Then we will show how the information gained in the Contents Meta-Analysis may be applied to address issues of generalizability. DOI:10.2458/azu_jmmss_v4i2_figueredo
The Effect of Mass-Weighting on the Effective Independence of Mode Shapes

Many methods exist to identify the degrees of freedom (DOFs) that are to be measured during a mode survey test. One popular method is effective independence. Effective independence attempts to retain linear independence of the modal vectors while eliminating from the proposed measurement set those DOFs which contribute the least to the linear independence. However, mode shapes are not only linearly independent vectors ‐ they are also self-orthogonal with respect to the mass. Therefore, using a metric based on linear independence may not result in an acceptable candidate set of measurements. In order to address this shortcoming, several methods have been investigated which introduce a selforthogonality constraint via mass-weighting of the effective independence matrix. The results of these methods for a simple example as well as a complex space structure will be presented along with relative measures of performance and computational effort. The study leads to the conclusion that the use of a Guyan reduced mass matrix without the factorization methods used in previous studies leads to acceptable performance based on measures of computational effort and self-orthogonality of test-article modes.
Farmed and Wild-Caught Shrimp in Kentucky and South Carolina: Consumer Preference for Homegrown by Heroes, Community Supported Fishery, and Other Quality Attributes

As information regarding origin, production method, and environmental certifications characterize a progressing seafood market, scare analysis has been made to understand market responses. This study focuses on consumer preference for wild-caught and farm-raised shrimp with several attributes. These include the Homegrown By Heroes label and Best Aquaculture Practices certification, as well as other existing attributes including the Marine Stewardship Council and each state’s local label. Also considered are hypothetical labels including Community Supported Fishery (CSF) and National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This study surveys consumers in Kentucky and South Carolina while utilizing a choice experiment to elicit willingness-to-pay measures for these various product attributes. Both wild-caught and farm-raised shrimp are considered since these species have significant market potential. Like previous studies, a strong preference for fresh as well as local shrimp was found. Furthermore, preference for Homegrown By Heroes was found to be highly valued by consumers, as well as the NOAA label signifying a federally operated ecolabel. Consumers were also found to value BAP and MSC certifications, two third-party agencies currently existent in the seafood market. Marketing and policy recommendations are given based on consumer willingness to pay estimates for these various seafood attributes in both states.
Characterization of inwardly rectifying potassium currents from dissociated rat taste receptor cells

Inwardly rectifying potassium currents were recorded from taste receptor cells dissociated from the rat tongue with the use of patch-clamp techniques in the whole cell configuration. These currents displayed strong inward rectification at potentials negative to the potassium reversal potential and little outward current at potentials positive to it. With elevations of external potassium concentration, the slope and chord conductance increased, activation shifted toward more depolarized potentials, and the reversal potential varied in a predicted Nernst relationship. These currents were insensitive to 4-aminopyridine and partially blocked by tetraethylammonium. Both barium and cesium gave more complete blocks with characteristic relief at more negative potentials. Inhibition with barium was more voltage sensitive than with cesium. These currents were unaffected by changes in external sodium. The high conductance at negative membrane potentials suggests these currents may contribute with other conductances to the resting potential of taste cells. They may also participate in yet unidentified processes of taste transduction, resulting in the early depolarization of the resting potential.
Stock Recommendations for Politically Connected Firms

Social network connections of corporations can significantly affect operating performance and firm valuation. Political connections are one form of social networking which often manifests into improved firm profitability as a result of political favors granted by politicians. However, analysts often have greater difficulty forecasting the earnings of politically connected firms than those of non-connected firms. This is because politicians often grant political favors to firms in an unpredictable manner making it difficult for market participants to time precisely when political benefits will translate into higher firm profitability. I examine how political connections affect analysts’ stock recommendations using a unique dataset of political contributions in the US over the period 1993–2012. I show that analysts’ recommendations are less profitable for firms with high connectedness than for firms with low (or no) connectedness. I also find that analysts are less effective in translating earnings forecasts into profitable recommendations for highly connected firms. Overall, the findings suggest that analysts do not impound all of the information concerning corporate political connections efficiently into their primary research outputs.
Angiotensin Antagonists in Models of Heart Failure

The development of agents that inhibit the renin—angiotensin system by specific blockade of the angiotensin II (ANG II) receptor has provided investigators with a new pharmacological tool to examine cardiovascular pathophysiology. Before the development of these compounds, saralasin was the only agent that could block the angiotensin receptor. The disadvantages of saralasin are that it is a partial agonist as well as an antagonist and that it is active only if given intravenously, which precludes investigation of the chronic effects of ANG II blockade. By comparing the effects of ANG II blockers with converting enzyme inhibition, it also is now possible to examine the effects of the renin—angiotensin system more specifically. One interesting issue is whether there are different effects of renin—angiotensin blockade produced by inhibition of the converting enzyme versus blockade of the angiotensin receptor. This differentiation is particularly germane in congestive heart failure because this is a clinical syndrome in which the renin—angiotensin system is activated. and converting enzyme inhibition is now conventional therapy for this disease.
Comparative Outcomes of Surgical and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis in Nonagenarians

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) emerged as a promising alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in extreme-aged patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Data on the outcomes of TAVR or SAVR in nonagenarians are limited. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used to identify patients aged 90 years or older who underwent TAVR or SAVR from 2004 to 2013. In-hospital morbidity and mortality were assessed. From 2004 to 2013, 9,066 (national estimate) nonagenarians underwent aortic valve replacement. After the introduction of TAVR, most nonagenarians were treated with TAVR (76%) compared with SAVR (24%). A total of 1,847 nonagenarians who underwent SAVR (n = 1,152) or TAVR (n = 695) were included in the analysis. In-hospital mortality was similar between patients who underwent SAVR (6.4%) compared with TAVR (6.5%; p = 0.29). Vascular complications were more common after TAVR (11.9% vs 6.3%, p
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Pediatric High-Grade Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: Our Experience and Review of Literature.

Introduction Although high-grade AVMs pose a particularly high lifetime hemorrhage risk to pediatric patients (age Methods We reviewed baseline and treatment outcomes data from pediatric patients aged less than 18 years with Spetzler-Martin grade IV AVMs treated with SRS in a single session at our institution. The study cohort comprised 28 pediatric patients with Spetzler-Martin grade IV AVMs, with a mean age of 12.1 years. Statistical analyses were performed to determine predictors of obliteration and compare the outcomes of patients with versus without previous AVM hemorrhage. Results The mean nidus volume, radiosurgical margin dose, and follow-up duration were 5.9 cm3, 19.4 Gy, and 116 months, respectively. The actuarial obliteration rates at 3, 5, 7, and 10 years were 11%, 19%, 29%, and 35%, respectively. Older age was significantly associated with obliteration in the univariate Cox proportional regression analysis (P = 0.01). During the latency period before obliteration, the annual post-SRS hemorrhage rate was 3.2%. Symptomatic and permanent radiation-induced changes were detected in 7.1% and 3.5%, respectively. A favorable outcome was achieved in 35.7%, and it was more frequently achieved for those with ruptured AVMs (P = 0.0484). Conclusions The efficacy of single-session SRS for the treatment of high-grade AVMs in the pediatric population is limited, particularly for those with unruptured nidi. Multimodal therapies should be considered in the management of selected pediatric high-grade AVMs. However, further prospective analyses are warranted to define the optimal management strategy for these challenging vascular malformations.
Real-time prediction of aeroelastic loads of wind turbine blades in gusty and turbulent wind using an improved load model

Abstract The traditional method of flutter analysis of wind turbine blades employs a mixed-domain (frequency- and time- domain) formulation for self-excited aerodynamic loads, because flutter derivatives are functions of reduced frequencies. However, a time-domain formulation for self-excited and buffeting loads allows the equations of motion to be continuously solved for response time histories of wind turbine blades below flutter speed and captures the transient response in gusty and turbulent winds. The rational function coefficients and buffeting indicial function coefficients that appear in the time-domain formulation were previously extracted for the NREL S830 airfoil section model in a wind tunnel. The objective of the current study is to evaluate how well these experimentally extracted coefficients can predict the aerodynamic loads on a blade in different wind conditions, through a separate set of tests conducted on a much larger (3.3 times) section model of the blade in a larger wind tunnel than originally used. The measured loads (lift and moment) were used to validate simulated loads using the time domain load prediction procedure. To improve the correlation between the measured and predicted loads, an improved loads model was developed using an additional lag term and its performance is presented in smooth, gusty and turbulent wind. An aeroelastic model test of a HAWT blade in a wind tunnel was used for further validation showing the efficacy of the loads model.
Milk, Cheese, and Other Food Intake as Measured by Mobile Apps and How That Changes Consumption

Abstract Mobile phones, apps, and related technology have become commonplace in our modern-day society, and as a result, many have adapted these devices and technologies as a way to measure dietary intake, increase weight loss, and otherwise assist in health- and food-related cases. After looking at a multitude of studies, it was found that technology (mobile or otherwise) has the potential to significantly alter food intake, generally to better health and lifestyle for both the average user and one suffering from a chronic disease such as obesity or diabetes. However, this potential is hampered by usability barriers and quality of software available.
Measuring Pharmacy Student Attitudes Toward Prayer: The Student Prayer Attitude Scale (SPAS)

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to develop and validate an instrument to assess the attitude of student pharmacists toward prayer in general and in particular as it relates to their academic performance. To fulfill the study objective, faculty from seven colleges of pharmacy located at Christian universities collaboratively developed the Student Prayer Attitude Scale (SPAS). The items were used to assess the attitudes of student pharmacists toward prayer as well as the effects of prayer on personal lives and academic performance. Faculty investigators asked 1,563 students to complete the survey and received 677 valid responses. A principal components analysis with promax rotation was conducted and revealed a two-factor structure: (a) general attitude toward prayer and (b) specific attitude regarding the impact of prayer on academic performance. Analysis of variance was used to compare student responses by religious identity. Students identifying as atheist or agnostic were significantly different ...