cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cross relaxation and spin diffusion in the proton NMR of hydrated collagen

PROTON NMR of water is being used extensively to probe the molecular dynamics of water molecules in biological systems such as protein solutions, hydrated macromolecules, cells and tissue. The nuclear magnetic relaxation rates R1 (spin–lattice) and R2 (spin–spin) can be analysed in terms of the rotational motions of the water molecules1–3. A crucial assumption in this analysis is that the proton relaxation of the water proceeds independently of that of the macromolecules. Kimmich and Noack4–6 claim that this assumption may be incorrect for proton spin–lattice relaxation because of spin diffusion, but clear evidence of spin diffusion in hydrated biological samples has not been reported. We show here that the proton spin–lattice relaxation behaviour in hydrated collagen is dominated by cross relaxation between the water protons and the macromolecular protons as a result of spin diffusion; the macromolecular spin–lattice relaxation contributes significantly to the water proton R1.
Phase separation and superconductivity in superoxygenated La2−xSrxCuO4+δ

Abstract La 2−x Sr x CuO 4+δ with x = 0.01, 0.025, 0.050, 0.10 and 0.16 and with excess oxygen δ incorporated using high-pressure O 2 anneals has been examined using neutron diffraction data. Various models were fit by Rietveld least-squares refinement, with the maximum amount of δ being only of the order of 20 times the standard deviation. δ is largest for x near 0, is zero for x = 0.10 and is intermediate for x = 0.16. Only the sample with x = 0.01 shows distinct phase separation into a nearly stoichiometric phase with δ ∼0 and an oxygen-rich superconducting phase as the temperature is lowered.
The non-enzymic conversion of dopa to melanin. II. The aerobic catalysis of dopa oxidation by copper ions and copper-plasma protein complexes.

Abstract Though cupric ions were not essential for dopa autoxidation, the oxidation rate of dopa was increased by cupric-plasma protein complexes and, to a lesser extent, by cupric ions. With 10−4M Cu++, globulin was more effective than albumin. Dialysis, partial acid hydrolysis, deamination, or blocking of SH groups of plasma did not affect copperplasma catalysis. Catalysis was decreased by partial alkali hydrolysis. Glycine and pyrophosphate inhibited, and tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane accelerated copper-plasma catalyzed oxidation relative to oxidation in phosphate buffer. In the presence or absence of plasma, copper ions increased dopa oxidation up to a maximum, beyond which more copper had no effect. Each molecule of dopa bound a maximum of 2 atoms Cu++. Oxidation was directly proportional to plasma level up to 1.2% protein. Dopa added to copper-plasma beyond 0.76 mg. dopa was oxidized more slowly than during autoxidation. The rates of copper-catalyzed and copper-plasma catalyzed oxidation were dependent on the hydroxyl-ion concentration, and became the same as autoxidation at pHs 7.8 and 8.5, respectively. The effects of temperature on autocatalyzed, copper-catalyzed, and copper-plasma catalyzed oxidations were in accord with the Arrhenius equation between 22 and 48 °.
Evolution and the classification of social behavior

Recent studies in the evolution of cooperation have shifted focus from altruistic to mutualistic cooperation. This change in focus is purported to reveal new explanations for the evolution of prosocial behavior. We argue that the common classification scheme for social behavior used to distinguish between altruistic and mutualistic cooperation is flawed because it fails to take into account dynamically relevant game-theoretic features. This leads some arguments about the evolution of cooperation to conflate dynamical scenarios that differ regarding the basic conditions on the emergence and maintenance of cooperation. We use the tools of evolutionary game theory to increase the resolution of the classification scheme and analyze what evolutionary inferences classifying social behavior can license.
Should The Brain Drain Be Encouraged? A Critical Look At The Grubel‐Scott Approach

It is no longer the call to ‘give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses:’ now we ask for your alert, your privileged, your brainy, your talented.
A parametric independence test for clustered binary data

This paper proposes an independence test for a set of clustered binary observations, such as might be encountered in developmental toxicity studies. An exchangeable binary model is employed, under an assumption of exchangeability among cluster elements, to model probability of positive response. With a Weibull form assumed for response, the independence test is equivalent to testing whether a parameter value is unity. This Weibull form also allows for parametric tests for a covariate-response relationship and for covariate effects on correlation. The procedure is illustrated using data obtained from a developmental toxicity study.
DEVELOPING STUDENT FIELD EXPERIENCES THROUGH UNIVERSITY‐COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS

(2000). DEVELOPING STUDENT FIELD EXPERIENCES THROUGH UNIVERSITY‐COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS. Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education: Vol. 21, No. 1, pp. 65-74.
INFLUENCE OF SOME ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ON THE GROWTH OF EXCISED ROOT TIPS OF WHEAT SEEDLINGS IN LIQUID MEDIA.

The experiments reported in this paper are of a preliminary nature, dealing with what may reasonably be expected from solution cultures of excised roots of wheat seedlings. In a certain sense (11) the culture of excised root tips may be considered as lying within the field of tissue culture, a field that has received much attention at the hands of animal physiologists and one that clearly deserves much more attention among plant physiologists than it has received thus far.
Analysis of transient queues with semidefinite optimization

We derive upper bounds on the tail distribution of the transient waiting time in the GI/GI/1 queue, given a truncated sequence of the moments of the service time and that of the interarrival time. Our upper bound is given as the objective value of the optimal solution to a semidefinite program (SDP) and can be calculated numerically by solving the SDP. We also derive the upper bounds in closed form for the case when only the first two moments of the service time and those of the interarrival time are given. The upper bounds in closed form are constructed by formulating the dual problem associated with the SDP. Specifically, we obtain the objective value of a feasible solution of the dual problem in closed from, which turns out to be the upper bound that we derive. In addition, we study bounds on the maximum waiting time in the first busy period.
Variability in catheter microwave sterilization techniques in a single clinic population.

Purpose: We designed a survey to assess the microwave sterilization technique practiced by patients at our clinic who perform clean intermittent catheterization.Materials and Methods: A 23-question survey addressing urinary catheter use and home sterilization techniques was mailed to 129 patients. A followup survey was mailed to 47 respondents who reported using a microwave oven to sterilize the catheters to assess the microwave technique further.Results: Of the 129 initial surveys 84 (64%) were returned, while 40 (85%) of the 47 followup questionnaires on microwave sterilization were returned. All patients surveyed have used clean intermittent catheterization for at least 1 year and 75% have used it more than 5 years. Of the respondents 80% perform clean intermittent catheterization 4 to 5 times daily, although sterilization frequency varies from daily to less than once weekly. Of the respondents 71% reported no difficulty with microwave sterilization, although 31 (63%) reported a history of catheter mel...
Trans-ABS Power Coupling Efficiency of Near Field Transducers for HAMR Calculated with Finite Element Modeling

We compute the efficiency of coupling between the end of various small plasmonic waveguide NFTs and magnetic media for HAMR. Coupling ranges from 10-80% and is a strong function of geometry and material properties.
Combined pregastric and gastric stimulation by food is sufficient for normal meal size

Abstract Rats equipped with a pyloric noose ate liquid food after 3-hr food deprivation. When the noose was open, ingested food accumulated in the stomach and entered the intestine in the normal fashion. When the noose was open, rats ate a mean meal size (MS) of 8.1 ml, displayed a postprandial satiety sequence with a mean latency to rest (LR) of 16.5 min, and had a gastric fluid volume at the end of a meal that was 111.7% of the MS volume. When the noose was closed, ingested food was trapped in the stomach and did not enter the intestine. When the noose was closed, rats ate a mean MS of 8.4 ml, displayed a postprandial satiety sequence with a mean LR of 15.4 min, and had a gastric fluid volume at the end of a meal that was 148.5% of the MS volume. These results show that (1) preabsorptive stimuli from pregastric and gastric sites are sufficient for normal meal size and postprandial satiety behavior, and (2) that satiety signals produced by preabsorptive contact of food with the intestine and by postabsorptive nutrient stimuli are not necessary for normal meal size and postprandial satiety behavior under experimental conditions that resemble spontaneous feeding in the light phase of the diurnal cycle.
Modulation by thiols of the merocyanine 540-sensitized photolysis of leukemia cells, red cells, and herpes simplex virus type 1.

— This paper reports on the role of endogenous and exogenous thiols in the merocyanine 540 (MC 540)-sensitized photoirradiation of L1210 leukemia cells, human erythrocytes, and human Herpes simplex virus type 1. Several measures taken to decrease the intracellular content of glutathione enhanced the cells sensitivity to MC 540-sensitized photoirradiation while stimulation of glutathione biosynthesis or supplementation of the extracellular or extraviral thiol content decreased the photosensitivity of cells and viruses. Taken together, these data suggest that endogenous and exogenous thiols can modulate the sensitivity of cells and enveloped viruses to MC 540-sensitized photoirradiation. They also pose new questions as to the mechanism of MC 540-sensitized photolysis.
Analysis of Wrist Motion Following Vascularized Bone Graft to the Proximal Scaphoid

Purpose To determine whether there is any motion loss associated with the 1,2 intracompartmental supraretinacular artery (ICSRA) bone graft to the dorsal scaphoid. The null hypothesis is that placement of a vascularized bone graft in the dorsal scaphoid does not lead to a significant change in range of motion. Methods Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremities were examined. Simulated 1,2 ICSRA bone grafts were harvested and placed into a dorsal trough made in the proximal scaphoid. Wrist motion measurements were performed before and after 1,2 ICSRA bone graft implantation. Results There were no significant changes in wrist motion following 1,2 ICSRA bone graft implantation. Conclusions Properly placed 1,2 ICSRA vascularized bone grafts for treatment of proximal scaphoid nonunions do not by themselves cause loss of wrist motion. Clinical Relevance Loss of motion following the treatment of proximal scaphoid nonunions with properly placed 1,2 ICSRA vascularized bone grafts are due to factors other than the bone graft itself.
Efficient Phthalimide Copolymer‐Based Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells: How the Processing Additive Influences Nanoscale Morphology and Photovoltaic Properties

The power conversion efficiency of poly(N-(2-ethylhexyl)-3,6-bis(4-dodecyloxythiophen-2-yl)phthalimide) (PhBTEH)/fullerene bulk heterojunction solar cells improves from 0.43 to 4.1% by using a processing additive. The underlying mechanism for the almost 10-fold enhancement in solar cell performance is found to be inhibition of fullerene intercalation into the polymer side chains and regulation of the relative crystallization/aggregation rates of the polymer and fullerene. An optimal interconnected two-phase morphology with 15–20 nm domains is obtained when a processing additive is used compared with 100–300 nm domains without the additive. The results demonstrate that a processing additive provides an effective means of controlling both the fullerene intercalation in polymer/fullerene blends and the domain sizes of their phase-separated nanoscale morphology.
Effect of Situational Factors on the Self-Attributions of Females and Males.

The simultaneous effects of the sex-role appropriateness of the task and the presence or absence of competition upon the attributions made by males and females were studied with 192 college students. Contrary to predictions, males rated themselves as luckier than females in the competitive conditions. However, as predicted, females made fewer self-serving attributions for the male than the female task.
The foraging behavior of granivorous rodents and short-term apparent competition among seeds

The foraging behavior of a predator species is thought to be the cause of short-term apparent competition among those prey species that share the predator. Short-term apparent competition is the negative indirect effect that one prey species has on another prey species via its effects on predator foraging behavior. In theory, the density-dependent foraging behavior of granivorous rodents and their preference for certain seeds are capable of inducing short-term apparent competition among seed species. In this study, I examined the foraging behavior of two heteromyid rodent species (family Heteromyidae), Merriam’s kangaroo rats (Dipodomys merriami) and little pocket mice (Perognathus longimembris). In one experiment I tested the preferences of both rodent species for the seeds of eight plant species. Both rodent species exhibited distinct but variable preferences for some seeds and avoidance of others. However, the differences in preference appeared to have only an occasional effect on the strength of the short-term apparent competition detected in a field experiment. In another experiment, I found that captive individuals of both rodent species had approximately equal foraging effort (i.e., time spent foraging) in patches that contained a highly preferred seed type (Oryzopsis hymenoides) regardless of seed density and the presence of a less preferred seed type (Astragalus cicer) in the patches. The rodents also harvested a large proportion of O. hymenoides seeds regardless of initial seed density; this precluded a negative indirect effect of A. cicer on O. hymenoides. But there was a negative indirect effect of O. hymenoides on A. cicer caused by rodents having a lower foraging effort in patches that only contained A. cicer seeds than in patches that contained A. cicer and O. hymenoides seeds. The indirect interaction between O. hymenoides and A. cicer thus represented a case of short-term apparent competition that was non-reciprocal. Most importantly, it was caused by the foraging behavior of the rodents.
The Nonabelian {Chern-Simons} Term With Sources and Exotic Source Statistics

The statistical properties of N identical particles are related to the fundamental group π 1 (Q) of Q, where Q, the configuration space is given by \(\frac{{{{{\left( {{{\mathbb{R}}^{d}}} \right)}}^{N}}\backslash \mathbb{R}_{{diagonal}}^{d}}}{{{{S}_{N}}}}\), where d is the space dimension. In three or more dimensions, the group π 1 (Q) is the permutation group S N . Each unitary irreducible representation (UIR) of π 1(Q) corresponds to a distinct quantum theory, these quantum theories describing bosons, fermions and paraparticles in three or more dimensions.1 In two space dimensions the situation is different: π 1 (Q) is the infinite braid group B N 11, which has N — 1 generators σ α , these generators describing the exchange of particles α with α + 1. This group governs the statistics and has many UIR’s which are not also UIR’s of S N , S N being a factor group of B N . We expect therefore a novel type of statistics, specific to two space dimensions. In 2+1 dimensions, it has been known for some time2 that a Lagrangian consisting of an abelian Chern-Simons term for charged particles leads to ‘fractional statistics’. This statistics seems to be the one obeyed by the Laughlin3 quasiparticles of the fractional quantum Hall effect. This work concentrates on the nonabelian generalization of the U(1) sources and the abelian Chern-Simons term and whether this generalization leads to novel statistics. This inquiry is of relevance for example for the strongly coupled Hubbard model which has an SU(2) gauge invariance4 and where it is possible that the effective action of the connection fields contains a Chern-Simons term.
Analytical solutions for diffusive finite reservoir problems using a modified orthogonal expansion method

In this paper, we consider an eigenfunction expansion solution method useful for a family of 1-d, unsteady diffusion dominated transport problems (Mass, e.g., effluent leakage from a landfill; Momentum, e.g., deceleration of shaft in a journal bearing, and energy; e.g., unsteady thermal loading of the skin of a re-entry vehicle) characterized by movement from a bounded, and therefore, time dependent, reservoir to an infinite reservoir. It is demonstrated that simple orthogonality is not applicable to this type of problem. To overcome this limitation, an extended eigenfunction expansion method is developed by modifying the weighting function within the classical orthogonality definition. Using this method, an analytical series solution is obtained. This series solution is also obtained using Laplace transform methods and analytical inversion. Comparison with numerical and approximate methods is good. The analytical solution developed here provides a convenient and physically insightful solution form useful in its own right and as a test problem for numerical implementations.
On an inconsistency in the derivation of the equations of elastohydrodynamic lubrication

Reynolds's lubrication approximation, one of the cornerstones of fluid mechanics, is constructed on the assumption that the viscosity is independent of the pressure. This assumption is reasonable at low pressures and is appropriate for a large class of applications. However, in an important instance that appeals to the approximation (elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL)), the liquid lubricant is subjected to extremely high pressures and the assumption that the viscosity is independent of the pressure no longer holds. On the contrary, pressure dependence of viscosity is severe and the viscosity can increase by several orders of magnitude due to pressure increase. Nevertheless, in the current literature the pressure dependence of viscosity in the derivation of the governing equations for EHL is only recognized a posteriori , that is, after the Reynolds equation has been stated under the assumption of constant viscosity. A consistent derivation of the equations of EHL that takes into account the pressure dependence of viscosity right from the outset leads to additional and hitherto neglected terms in the governing equations. Consequently, construction of a single pressure equation, analogous to the Reynolds equation, is no longer possible without additional, drastic, assumptions. In this study,we provide a consistent derivation of the equations of motion for EHL and, with additional, simplifying assumptions, derive a modified Reynolds equation. We then provide a comparison between the solutions to the classical equation of Reynolds's and our modified equation. The modified equation results in slightly higher pressures, but at significantly higher viscosities, than the classical Reynolds equation.
Increased Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Sensitivity of MCF-7 Cells Transfected with NAD(P)H:Quinone Reductase

Evidence from a number of studies suggests that the mechanism by which tumor necrosis factor (TNF) kills transformed cells involves oxidative stress. NAD(P)H:(quinone acceptor) oxidoreductase (NQO1) is an antioxidant enzyme with particular relevance to cancer. The MCF-7 breast cancer cell line was stably transfected with rat NQO1 cDNA to determine whether increased NQO1 activity alters sensitivity to TNF-induced apoptosis. Five clones, with a range of NQO1 enzyme activities from 5- to 50-fold greater than the MCF-7 line, and two control transfectants were examined. Northern blot hybridization analyses and reverse transcription-PCR demonstrated that the increase in NQO1 activity in the transfectants was attributable to expression from the transfected rat sequence. Based on sulforhodamine B assays for the number of viable cells, the NQO1 clones showed increased sensitivity to EO9, an indoloquinone that undergoes bioactive reduction by NQO1. Viability studies also demonstrated that the NQO1 transfectants were significantly more sensitive to TNF than the control transfectants or MCF-7 parent. This increased sensitivity could not be explained by changes in superoxide dismutase or catalase activity or to increased sensitivity to oxidative stress in general, as assessed by response to hydrogen peroxide and paraquat treatment. Using dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate as a probe, we found that the NQO1 transfectants had no difference in baseline level of oxidative stress compared to the control cells but did exhibit greater intracellular oxidative stress after TNF treatment. We conclude that NQO1 can affect the TNF-mediated pathway to apoptosis.
In vitro production of radiolabeled red clover (Trifolium pratense) isoflavones

Red clover isoflavones are increasingly used in dietary supplements for their purported estrogenic effects. However, little is known about their metabolism in animals due to a lack of commercially available isotopically labeled tracers. The goal of this research was to establish red clover cell culturing methodology for 14C-biolabeling of isoflavones. When root, leaf, and petiole-derived suspension cultures were grown in darkness or light, dark-grown, petiole-derived solution cultures produced the highest concentrations of the two major red clover isoflavones, formononetin (0.67 mg/g FM inoculum) and biochanin A (0.13 mg/g FM inoculum). Varying levels and timing of copper chloride elicitor did not significantly affect isoflavone accumulation. Approximately 38% of the 14C-sucrose dose accumulated in the cells. Eighteen percent of the initial labeled dose was detected in the isoflavone-rich methanolic extract and of that, 22% accumulated in isoflavones.
Pulse Generator Exchange Does Not Accelerate the Rate of Electrical Failure in a Recalled Small Caliber ICD Lead.

Background St. Jude Riata/Riata ST defibrillator leads (St. Jude Medical, Sylmar, CA, USA) were recalled by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011 for an increased rate of failure. More than 227,000 leads were implanted and at least 79,000 patients still have active Riata leads. Studies have examined clinical predictors of lead failure in Riata leads, but none have addressed the effect of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) generator exchange on lead failure. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of ICD generator exchange on the rate of electrical failure in the Riata lead at 1 year. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted in patients who underwent implantation of a Riata/Riata ST lead at one center. Patients with a functioning Riata lead (with/without externalized conductor) at the time of ICD exchange were compared to controls with Riata leads implanted for a comparable amount of time who did not undergo generator replacement. Results Riata leads were implanted in 1,042 patients prior to the recall and 153 of these patients underwent generator exchange without lead replacement. Conductor externalization was noted in 21.5% of Riata leads in the ICD exchange cohort, which was not different from the control group (19.2%; P = 0.32). Two leads failed in the first year after generator replacement (1.5%) which did not significantly differ from the control group (2.0%; P = 0.57). At change-out, 54% received a commanded shock (18.6 ± 0.9 J) that did not result in any change in the high-voltage lead impedance (46.1 ± 1.1 ohms). Conclusions Conductor externalization was seen frequently in our cohort of patients. ICD generator exchange did not accelerate the rate of Riata lead failure at 1 year. Although both the control and the change-out cohorts failed at a rate much greater than nonrecalled leads, generator exchange did not appear to add to the problem.
Neighborhood influences on perceived social support among parents: findings from the project on human development in Chicago neighborhoods

BACKGROUND: Social support is frequently linked to positive parenting behavior. Similarly, studies increasingly show a link between neighborhood residential environment and positive parenting behavior. However, less is known about how the residential environment influences parental social support. To address this gap, we examine the relationship between neighborhood concentrated disadvantage and collective efficacy and the level and change in parental caregiver perceptions of non-familial social support. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The data for this study came from three data sources, the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN) Study's Longitudinal Cohort Survey of caregivers and their offspring, a Community Survey of adult residents in these same neighborhoods and the 1990 Census. Social support is measured at Wave 1 and Wave 3 and neighborhood characteristics are measured at Wave 1. Multilevel linear regression models are fit. The results show that neighborhood collective efficacy is a significant (s = .04; SE = .02; p = .03), predictor of the positive change in perceived social support over a 7 year period, however, not of the level of social support, adjusting for key compositional variables and neighborhood concentrated disadvantage. In contrast concentrated neighborhood disadvantage is not a significant predictor of either the level or change in social support. CONCLUSION: Our finding suggests that neighborhood collective efficacy may be important for inducing the perception of support from friends in parental caregivers over time. Language: en
Third-order intermodulation reduction by harmonic injection in a TWT amplifier

A method for reducing the two-tone third-order intermodulation products arising from two carrier frequencies at 1.95 and 2.00 GHz is demonstrated in a traveling wave tube-distributed amplifier. The optimum amplitude and phase of an injected second harmonic and the resulting intermodulation suppression of up to 24.2 dB are examined for fundamental drive levels approaching saturation.
Differences between rats and guinea pigs in gastrointestinal and nervous system substance P levels

Abstract Substance P immunoreactivity was measured in regions of the gastrointestinal and nervous systems of age-matched adult rats and guinea pigs. Guinea pigs were found to have substantially higher substance P levels than rats in the gastrointestinal system, in dorsal roots and ganglia, and in dorsal spinal cord. Rats had higher levels in hypothalamus while levels in corpus striatum and ventral spinal cord were comparable in both species. Treatment of guinea pigs with parenteral capsaicin reduced substance P levels only in dorsal roots and ganglia and in dorsal spinal cord.
Strained layer heterostructures, and their applications to MODFETs, HBTs, and lasers

Recent developments in strained layer epitaxial systems are reviewed. Their interest stems primarily from the additional degree of freedom that strained layers provide in the design of heterostructures and devices, which has led to device structures that can be tailored to a particular application with, in many cases, performances that are and out of reach with lattice-matched systems alone. With the advent of SiGe alloys, the concept of strained layers was extended to include the elemental semiconductors as well. Si/SiGe heterojunctions have provided a way to study quantum phenomena and explore heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs) and field-effect transistors (FETs). In optoelectronics, quantum well lasers with strained InGaAs active layers provide considerable reduced threshold current density. With coherently strained active layers based on GaAs, lasers with longevities superior to those with lattice-matched channels have been obtained. >
A Systematic Review of Complications and Failures Associated With Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for Recurrent Patellar Dislocation

Background:Patellofemoral instability affects activities of daily living and hinders athletic participation. Over the past 2 decades, more attention has been paid to medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction for the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocations/subluxations. Numerous techniques have been reported; however, there is no consensus regarding optimal reconstruction.Purpose:This study sought to report on the various techniques for MPFL reconstruction described in the literature and to assess the rate of complications associated with the procedure.Study Design:Meta-analysis.Methods:A systematic review of the literature was performed in early October 2010 using keywords “medial patellofemoral ligament,” “MPFL,” “reconstruction,” “complication(s),” and “failure(s).” Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Graft choice, surgical technique, outcome measures, and complications were recorded and organized in a database. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed on the dat...
Universal Patterns in Cultural Evolution: An Empirical Analysis Using Guttman Scaling

We test for universal patterns in cultural evolution by Guttman scaling on two different worldwide samples of archae- ological traditions and on well-known archaeological sequences. The evidence is generally consistent with universal evolutionary se- quences. We also present evidence for some punctuated evolutionary events. (Keywords: cultural evolution, cross-cultural research, scaling, anthropological theory)
Determination of the phosphorus fertilization rate for bluegill ponds using regression analysis

Pond fertilization studies usually are restricted by availability of ponds forcing researchers to limit treatments to maintain adequate replicates for statistical analysis. Data from a wide range of fertilizer rates applied over a single season in un-replicated ponds were treated using regression analysis to establish the optimum phosphorus application rate for bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) ponds. The response to phosphorus fertilization conformed to a saturation model (R2 = 0.92). Bluegill production increased with greater fertilization rate up to 3 kg P2O5 ha(-1), but production was similar (501-558 kg ha(-1)) at rates of 3-7 kg P2O5 ha(-1). The observation that 3 kg P2O5 ha(-1) per application was adequate phosphorus fertilization for bluegill ponds with sufficient nitrogen agrees closely with the usual recommendation of 4 kg P2O5 ha(-1) per application. Results of this research also revealed that nutrient assessment in bluegill ponds can be based on total nitrogen and total phosphorus analyses, and Secchi disk visibility may be used as an index of plankton abundance.
Estimating Centrality Statistics for Complete and Sampled Networks: Some Approaches and Complications

The study of large, "big data" networks is becoming increasingly common and relevant to our understanding of human systems. Many of the studied networks are drawn from social media and other web-based sources. As such, in-depth analysis of these dynamic structures e.g. In the context of cyber security, remains especially challenging. Due to the time and resources incurred in computing network measures for large networks, it is practical to approximate these whenever possible. We present some approximation techniques exploiting any tractable relationship between the measures and network characteristics such as size and density. We find there exist distinct functional relationships between network statistics of complex "slow" measures and "fast" measures, such as the linkage between betweenness centrality and network density. We also track how these relationships scale with network size. Specifically, we explore the efficacy of both linear modeling (i.e., Correlations and least squares regression) and non-linear modeling in estimating the network measures of interest. We find that sparse, but not severely sparse, networks which admit sufficient entropy incur the most variance in the network statistics and, hence, more error in the estimation. We review our approaches with three prominent network topologies: random (aka Erdos-Renyi), Watts-Strogatz small-world, and scale-free networks. Finally, we assess how well the estimation approaches perform for sub-sampled networks.
Decomposition and coordination for non-convex optimal control problems with parallel algorithm

A parallel algorithm is developed lor non-convex optimal control problems. The essential idea is to decompose the original problem into subproblems along the time axis so that subproblems can be solved in parallel. The decomposed problems has been proved to be equivalent to the original problem in the sense that there is an one-to-one correspondence between the local minima of the former with quadratic incentives and that of the latter under certain technical conditions. A parallel algorithm is developed to find the incentive coefficients and thus obtain the local minima of the original problem. The convergence properties are summarized and a simple numerical example is used to illustrate its feasibility.
MIAMI BLUE BUTTERFLY LARVAE (LEPIDOPTERA: LYCAENIDAE) AND ANTS (HYMEOPTERA: FORMICIDAE): NEW INFORMATION ON THE SYMBIONTS OF AN ENDANGERED TAXON

Abstract Historical, anecdotal records of the state-endangered Miami blue butterfly, Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri (Comstock & Huntington) (Lepidoptera), have mentioned larval associations with the Florida carpenter ant, Camponotus sp. Recent population studies confirm that C. t. bethunebakeri larvae associate with Camponotus floridanus (Buckley) as well as another member of the genus, Camponotus planatus (Roger). Additionally, caterpillars have been observed tended by Crematogaster ashmeadi (Emery), Forelius pruinosus (Roger), and Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fab.). Field surveys of remaining Miami blue habitat and recent butterfly reintroduction sites reveal other potential ant associates, Paratrechina longicornis (Latreille) and Paratrechina bourbonica (Forel), and a host of possible predaceous ant species. The corresponding conservation implications are discussed. Detailed information is also presented about larval ant-associated organs and their mediation of this facultative symbiosis.
Temporal and geographic genetic variation in Culex nigripalpus theobald (Culicidae: Diptera), a vector of St. Louis encephalitis virus, from Florida.

Abstract A field population of Culex (Culex) nigripalpus Theobald from Vero Beach, FL, sampled monthly over a period of 24 mo, a colony sample and 10 geographic samples were analyzed for genetic variation at 14 enzyme loci using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The Cx. nigripalpus colony sample showed significantly lower genetic variation than the field-collected samples, measured by mean number of alleles per locus (colony 1.4 ± 0.1 versus field 2.1 ± 0.22), percentage of polymorphic loci (colony 35.7% versus field 54.8 ± 7.7%), but mean observed heterozygosity (Ho = colony 0.16 ± 0.07 versus field 0.17 ± 0.03) and mean Hardy–Weinberg expected heterozygosity (He = colony 0.14 ± 0.06 versus field 0.18 ± 0.02) did not differ significantly. Three of the 14 loci (Aldox, Gpd, and Gpi) from the Vero Beach field samples showed distinct temporal patterns in the frequency of the most common allele. Higher mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) occurred during months following high rainfall in the Vero Beach field s...
The Mind-Body Problem

It often happens in the history of philosophy that problems which cannot be solved are dropped. This may come about when due to the advent of access to additional information a problem turns out to be not a genuine problem after all but only a pseudo-problem, or when interest shifts from a problem which proves to be either undecidable or of less importance than had been thought. In any case it means for some philosophical assumptions that they lead to trial runs which need not be made.
Computational Prediction and Biochemical Analyses of New Inverse Agonists for the CB1 Receptor

Human cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) G-protein coupled receptor is a potential therapeutic target for obesity. The previously predicted and experimentally validated ensemble of ligand-free conformations of CB1 [Scott, C. E. et al. Protein Sci. 2013, 22, 101−113; Ahn, K. H. et al. Proteins 2013, 81, 1304–1317] are used here to predict the binding sites for known CB1-selective inverse agonists including rimonabant and its seven known derivatives. This binding pocket, which differs significantly from previously published models, is used to identify 16 novel compounds expected to be CB1 inverse agonists by exploiting potential new interactions. We show experimentally that two of these compounds exhibit inverse agonist properties including inhibition of basal and agonist-induced G-protein coupling activity, as well as an enhanced level of CB1 cell surface localization. This demonstrates the utility of using the predicted binding sites for an ensemble of CB1 receptor structures for designing new CB1 inverse agonists.
Water adsorption on the LaMnO3 surface

Studying the adsorption of water on the metallic LaMnO3 surface can provide insight into this complicated surface-adsorbate interaction. Using density functional theory, we investigated the adsorption of a water monomer, dimer, trimer, and a monolayer on the surface. The electronic structure of ground state configurations is explored using analysis of density of states, charge density, and crystal orbital overlap populations. We found that the interaction between the surface and water molecules is stronger than hydrogen bonding between molecules, which facilitates wetting of the surface. Adsorbed water molecules form very strong hydrogen bonds, with substantially shifted OH stretch modes. For the monolayer of adsorbed water, a hint of a bilayer is observed with a height separation of only 0.2 A. However, simulated scanning tunneling microscopy images and vibrational spectra suggest a significant difference between the two layers due to intermolecular bonding and interaction with the substrate.
Exploratory analysis of the pathway towards operationalizing resilience in transportation infrastructure management

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the pathway toward operationalizing resilience in management of transportation infrastructure. Design/methodology/approach – The research approach includes a comprehensive survey of the State Transportation Agencies (STA) in the USA. The information collected from the survey is analyzed using statistical analysis to explore the determinants of operationalizing resilience in transportation infrastructure management. Findings – The results reveal that the current practices of STA need improvement in terms of pre-disaster vulnerability and exposure analysis as well as pre-disaster retrofit and betterment efforts. A pathway toward this end is identified with the major components being: funding availability, integration of efforts across different units, use of risk and vulnerability assessment approaches, and use of resilience indices. Practical/implications – The pathway, along with the other findings, enhances the understanding of the status quo, drivers, an...
Methanogenic archaea in marcellus shale: a possible mechanism for enhanced gas recovery in unconventional shale resources

Marcellus Shale occurs at depths of 1.5–2.5 km (5000 to 8000 feet) where most geologists generally assume that thermogenic processes are the only source of natural gas. However, methanogens in produced fluids and isotopic signatures of biogenic methane in this deep shale have recently been discovered. This study explores whether those methanogens are indigenous to the shale or are introduced during drilling and hydraulic fracturing. DNA was extracted from Marcellus Shale core samples, preinjected fluids, and produced fluids and was analyzed using Miseq sequencing of 16s rRNA genes. Methanogens present in shale cores were similar to methanogens in produced fluids. No methanogens were detected in injected fluids, suggesting that this is an unlikely source and that they may be native to the shale itself. Bench-top methane production tests of shale core and produced fluids suggest that these organisms are alive and active under simulated reservoir conditions. Growth conditions designed to simulate the hydrofr...
Initial investigation of small colony variants of Staphylococcus aureus in chronic rhinosinusitis.

BACKGROUND: Small colony variants (SCVs) are a metabolically inactive form of bacteria that can be difficult to eradicate. To examine whether SCVs contribute to Staphylococcus aureus persistence in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), we compared the prevalence of S. aureus SCVs in CRS patients and healthy controls. METHODS: Endoscopically guided middle meatus samples were collected from 23 CRS patients and 12 controls. Samples were cultured and screened for the presence of phenotypically small colonies. Candidate SCV isolates were classified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. To further characterize the capacity of S. aureus isolates to form SCVs when stressed, colonies underwent a gentamicin exposure assay. RESULTS: Among CRS patient samples, 15 were culture positive for S. aureus (65.2%), and of those, two grew putative SCVs on selective media (8.7%). However, neither was genetically confirmed to be S. aureus upon sequencing. In healthy controls, eight specimens were culture positive for S. aureus (66.7%), and of these, two grew putative S. aureus SCVs on selective media (16.7%); but again, neither was confirmed to be S. aureus by 16S analysis. None of the four patients colonized with SCVs had evidence of sinonasal disease at a mean follow-up of eight months. S. aureus isolates from CRS patients and controls were equally likely to form SCVs with gentamicin exposure. CONCLUSION: S. aureus SCVs were not associated with CRS in the current study. Their role in refractory CRS remains theoretical, and further research is warranted to determine whether S. aureus SCVs may reside in the intracellular compartment.
Integrating literacy and tool-based technologies: examining the successes and challenges

SUMMARY Elementary teachers have a significant responsibility to foster children's abilities to read and write. At the same time, elementary teachers are encouraged to use tool-based technologies such as the World Wide Web, multimedia encyclopedias, and word processors. However, tool-based technologies do not inherently develop children's literacy abilities. The author conducted an ethnographic study in a fourth-grade classroom in order to examine how literacy and tool-based technologies can be integrated. In this report, the author describes the setting that includes an explanation of the instructional approaches and theoretical underpinnings used by the teacher. While many findings emerged, in this paper the author focuses on the successes and challenges the teacher had while integrating literacy and tool-based technologies. The findings empower teachers to consider potential successes and challenges they may have and to decide how they might replicate the successes while addressing or circumventing the...
Retailing with Opaque Products

An opaque product is a product where the retailer hides one or more attributes of the product until after it has been sold. Historically, opaque products have been used in the hotel and airline industries where customers can purchase a room or flight without knowing the brand name. In this work, we show that using opaque products in the retail industry, where there are nonperishable goods and supply chain costs, may also be beneficial. Although opaque products have traditionally been used as a vehicle for price discrimination, we show that opaque products can also be used as a vehicle for inventory management and therefore lower supply chain costs.In our model, customers arrive dynamically and choose between two substitutable products and an opaque product, which is sold at a discount. Customers that purchase the opaque product will be allocated one of the two substitutable products at the discretion of the retailer. For serving demand, joint replenishment and holding costs are incurred by the retailer. We prove that offering an opaque product can strictly improve the profit of the retailer, even without altering the prices of the original products. We also provide a simple method to estimate demand in an opaque selling environment based on the demand without an opaque product, which may be of independent interest. Finally, we analytically show that using opaque products to balance inventory has dramatic cost advantages, even when the amount of opaque products sold is relatively small.
Pharmacokinetics of cephradine in neonates

The pharmacokinetics after single intravenous injection of cephradine 50mg/lg was studied in 15 neonates. The peak concentration was 84. 30±28. 00mg/L after injection. The elimination T1/2 was 1. 91 ±0. 56h, the volume of distribution 0. 76 ±0. 28L/kg, the clerance of cephradine 0. 322±. 126L. h-1·kg-1. The difference for elimination of cephradine in different dag age was studied. Comparison as the data in neonateas over 14 days and under 14 days showed that T1/2(β)is shorter and the clearance is larger. The urine cephradine concentration at 8 hours after injection was 1058±61. 75mg/L, showing that the elimination of cephradine in neonates is slowerthan that in adults. It is suggested that the interval of dosage for neonates may be longer than that for adults.
Handling Arabidopsis plants: growth, preservation of seeds, transformation, and genetic crosses.

Growing healthy plants is essential for the advancement of Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) research. Over the last 20 years, the Arabidopsis Biological Resource Center (ABRC) has collected and developed a series of best-practice protocols, some of which are presented in this chapter. Arabidopsis can be grown in a variety of locations, growth media, and environmental conditions. Most laboratory accessions and their mutant or transgenic derivatives flower after 4-5 weeks and set seeds after 7-8 weeks, under standard growth conditions (soil, long day, 23 oC). Some mutant genotypes, natural accessions, and Arabidopsis relatives require strict control of growth conditions best provided by growth rooms, chambers, or incubators. Other lines can be grown in less-controlled greenhouse settings. Although the majority of lines can be grown in soil, certain experimental purposes require utilization of sterile solid or liquid growth media. These include the selection of primary transformants, identification of homozygous lethal individuals in a segregating population, or bulking of a large amount of plant material. The importance of controlling, observing, and recording growth conditions is emphasized and appropriate equipment required to perform monitoring of these conditions is listed. Proper conditions for seed harvesting and preservation, as well as seed quality control, are also described. Plant transformation and genetic crosses, two of the methods that revolutionized Arabidopsis genetics, are introduced as well.