cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
School administration in a changing education sector: the US experience

Purpose – Research, spanning half a century, points to the critical role of school administration and to the successful implementation of US government policies and programs. In part these findings reflect the times and a US educational governance system characterized by local control, a constitutionally‐constrained federal government, resource‐poor state governments, and an overall system of segment arrangements for governing education. However, the US education policy environment has changed dramatically over the past several decades, with standards and high stakes accountability becoming commonplace. The purpose of this paper is to examine the entailments of shifts in the policy environment for school administrative practice, focusing on how school leaders manage in the middle between this shifting external policy environment and classroom teachers.Design/methodology/approach – The paper's focus is on how school administration manages the dual organizational imperatives of legitimacy and integrity in a...
First‐year performance assessment of SWATH Research Ship

The first small waterplane area twin hull (SWATH) design ship in the U.S. academic research vessel fleet, the R/V Kilo Moana (Figure 1), entered service in September 2002. The ship, whose home port is in Honolulu, has been operating with diverse groups of oceanographers on board. Before the ship became operational, the University National Oceanographic Laboratory System Fleet Improvement Committee (UNOLS- FIC) decided that it was important to gather fair and representative impressions of the vessel's performance from the first scientists on board. Science mission requirements developed over the past year by UNOLS have all indicated that sea-keeping is a very high priority: oceano graphers wanted to work comfortably at higher sea states. Just about the only way to achieve this is by using the SWATH design rather than the mono-hull.
Lateral cervical epidural catheter placement for continuous unilateral upper extremity analgesia and sympathetic block.

Abstract Background and Objectives: The use of the laterally directed cervical epidural catheter for the treatment of acute and chronic pain has not been previously described. We have used this technique in a series of 30 patients to produce unilateral upper extremity analgesia and sympathetic block. We present a case report of a patient treated with this technique and a description of the technique and results from the series. Methods: We placed an epidural catheter at the C6-7 vertebral interspace and directed the needle bevel and catheter to the affected side in a woman with a history of complex regional pain syndrome of the right upper extremity. Results: We were able to show a unilateral block with this technique by anatomic parameters (unilateral contrast dye spread), physiologic parameters (unilateral Horner's syndrome), and symptomatic parameters (unilateral, subjective neural block). Although 1 patient treated with this technique had bilateral effects, no patient has had a predominant block on the contralateral side and there have been no complications. Conclusions: This case report shows results typical of this series of 30 patients. In this series, the laterally directed cervical epidural catheter was an effective technique to produce continuous unilateral analgesia and sympathetic block. Reg Aneth Pain Med 2000;25:313–317 .
Fast and accurate transaction level models using result oriented modeling

Efficient communication modeling is a critical task in SoC design and exploration. In particular, fast and accurate communication is needed to predict the performance of a system. Recently, Transaction Level Modeling (TLM) is used to speedup communication simulation at the cost of accuracy. This paper proposes a novel modeling technique called Result Oriented Modeling (ROM) which removes the accuracy drawback of TLM. Using ROM, models yield the same speed as their TLM counterparts, yet still are 100% accurate in timing. ROM utilizes the fact that internal states in the communication channel are not observable by the caller. Hence, ROM omits the internal states entirely and optimistically predicts the end result. Retroactively, the outcome is checked and, if necessary, corrective measures are taken to maintain the accuracy of the model. In this paper, we apply ROM to the AMBA AHB bus architecture. Our experimental results show that ROM exhibits the same high simulation performance as traditional TLM, yet it retains the same accuracy as the bus functional model. Thus, the proposed ROM approach eliminates the speed/accuracy tradeoff exhibited by traditional TLM.
Localization of agmatine in vasopressin and oxytocin neurons of the rat hypothalamic paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei.

Agmatine (decarboxylated l-arginine), an endogenous ligand of imidazoline and alpha(2) adrenoreceptors, is particularly enriched in the rat hypothalamic paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic (SON) nuclei. The present study utilized light and electron microscopic immunocytochemical methods to determine the distribution and extent of colocalization of agmatine relative to subpopulations of vasopressin- (VP) and oxytocin- (OT) producing neurons in PVN and SON nuclei. By light microscopy, agmatine-immunoreactive perikarya were found in both the magnocellular and the parvocellular neuronal subdivisions of PVN and SON. Confocal and electron microscopy revealed that agmatine-immunoreactivity (I) within neuronal perikarya was associated with the nuclear membrane as well as mitochondria, Golgi complexes, endoplasmic reticula, and plasmalemma. Additionally, agmatine-I was identified in both axons and axonal terminals, which were enriched in large dense-core vesicles. Dual and triple immunocytochemical labeling experiments also demonstrated that agmatine coexists with VP or OT in most PVN and SON magnocellular neurons. Combinations of iontophoretic injections of Fluorogold into the dorsomedullary complex with immunocytochemical labeling revealed that many retrogradely labeled neurons in the parvocellular region of the PVN contained agmatine-I and either VP or OT. These findings provide evidence that agmatine may function as a modulator of both hypothalamically mediated neuroendocrine and autonomic responses.
Mucosal perfusion and reactivity of the rat small intestinal allograft : effect of acute rejection

During acute rejection (AR), * the endothelial targeting seen in the mucosal vessels of the intestinal allograft (IA) could impair the blood supply and response to luminal stimuli. To study the effect of AR in the perfusion and reactivity of the IA mucosa, we measured the mucosal blood flow in the ileum (IL) of 2 groups of control rats (Lewis and ACI) and in the native and grafted IL of syngeneic (ACI to ACI) and allogeneic (donor ACI to recipient Lewis) rats. Using reflectance spectrophotometry and laser-Doppler flowmetry, parameters of mucosal oxygen saturation (ISO 2 ), hemoglobin content (IHB), and blood flow (FLOW) were obtained at baseline and after saline and 50% dextrose (D50) stimulation. When compared to controls, the isograft IL had similar perfusion (ISO 2 , IHB, and FLOW). The allograft IL showed ischemia (similar ISO 2 , and lower ISO 2 and FLOW). In the allografts, the ISO 2 and FLOW were lower than in the isografts. In response to D50, the native IL of all groups showed an increased IHB and FLOW (hyperemia); the isografts showed an increase only in IHB (partial response) ; the allografts did not show any response at all. In summary, the mucosal perfusion in the rejecting allografts, but not in the isografts, showed ischemia. The response to D50 seen in the native ilea was only partial in the isografts and absent in the allografts. Because these changes occurred before the onset of mucosal ulcerations, we postulate that they could be used as early indicators of AR.
Effect of edge restraint coupling on buckling of ring-supported cylinders.

References 1 Budiansky, B. and Radkowski, P. P., "Numerical Analysis of Unsymmetrical Bending of Shells of Revolution," AIAA Journal, Vol. 1, No. 8, Aug. 1963, pp. 1833-1842. 2 Cohen, G. A., "Computer Analysis of Asymmetrical Deformation of Orthotropic Shells of Revolution," AIAA Journal, Vol. 2, No. 6, June 1964, pp. 932-934. 3 Cappelli, A. P., Nishimoto, T. S., and Radkowski, P. P., "The Analysis of Shells of Revolution Having Arbitrary Stiffness Distributions," AIAA/ASME 8th Structural Dynamics & Materials Conference, March 29-31, 1967, Palm Springs, Calif. 4 Rossettos, J. N. and Tene, Y., "Analysis of Prestressed Layered Shells With Application to Buckling," AIAA Journal, Vol. 5, No. 8, Sept. 1967, pp. 1721-1722. Effect of Edge Restraint Coupling on Buckling of Ring-Supported Cylinders
Effect of stochasticity, capacity and lead time cost drivers on WIP and throughput in a pull production environment

Abstract Using a simulation approach, the effect of stochasticity, capacity, and lead time on WIP and throughput is examined in a pull production environment. In this dynamic environment production variation, capacity, and lead time are found to be significant cost drivers in terms of their effect on WIP inventory and throughput. The effects of these cost drivers do not necessarily follow from the logic used in earlier push production environment research. There are trade-offs among these cost drivers and their effect on WIP and throughput. Some excess capacity is found to be optimal in a stochastic environment. As a result there are significant strategic cost management implications that may impact the entire value chain. Management may need to model pull production environments to assess the strategic trade-offs between these cost drivers and the actions needed to minimize their effect on WIP and throughput.
Effect of denaturization on the immunogenicity and uveitogenicity of retinal S-antigen.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that alteration of pH or temperature of retina extract can affect its complement fixing reactivity with anti-S-antigen serum. To examine the effect of pH or heat on the immunogenicity and uveitogenicity of purified bovine S-antigen, guinea-pigs were injected with pH- or heat-treated S-antigen and evaluated for clinical and histopathological signs of uveoretinitis, histopathology of pineal gland, serum and intraocular S-antigen antibody reactivity, and S-antigen skin test reactivity. Guinea-pigs that received pH 7 or pH 10 treated S-antigen responded as did those that received untreated S-antigen. Guinea-pigs injected with pH 4 or heat-treated S-antigen exhibited lower incidence, later onset and less severe uveitis than those that received untreated S-antigen. Systemic responses of skin test reactivity to S-antigen were not different from those of the control group; pineal gland involvement and serum anti-S antibody reactivity were slightly reduced. Skin test responses of animals receiving treated antigen were less to the treated (injected) antigen than to untreated S-antigen. In addition, antibody responses of guinea-pigs receiving pH 4 or heat-treated antigen were less to the treated (injected) antigen than to untreated S-antigen. These results suggest that the sites on the S-antigen molecule responsible for various aspects of pathogenicity and immunogenicity do not have the same sensitivity to physical/chemical treatment and may reside on different parts of the molecule. Furthermore, the reactive sites, especially for antibody and skin test reactivity, may be continuous sites.
Robotic Surgery in Otolaryngology: Endocrine

Over the last decade, robotic surgery has evolved from a medical curiosity, with anticipated potential to overcome the limitations of surgical endoscopy, to the favored procedure in several surgical specialties such as urology and gynecology. The application of robotic technology in head and neck endocrine surgery has recently expanded. Different approaches have lately been described that are intended to preserve the safety of these operations, while avoiding visible neck scars. This article aims to provide the reader with an overview of the current robotic approaches and their capability to assist surgeons in accomplishing remote-access thyroid and parathyroid surgery.
The program of RNA synthesis in N4-infected Escherichia coli.

Abstract Two classes of N4-specific RNAs, which account for all N4 transcription, have been defined by DNA-RNA hybridization competition in bacteriophage N4-infected Escherichia coli cells. The synthesis of both classes of RNA is rifampicin and streptolydigin resistant; addition of rifampicin (or streptolydigin) prior to infection has no effect on the appearance of these transcriptional classes. Class I RNA synthesis requires no postinfection protein synthesis but does require the function of a virion protein. Class II RNA synthesis requires the proper expression of cistrons 3 and 4 but does not require N4 DNA synthesis. The role of both rifampicin-resistant RNA classes in N4 development is discussed.
PURIFICATION OF ALKALINE FRUCTOSE DIPHOSPHATASE FROM EUGLENA GRACILIS.

Abstract 1. 1. A 450–800-fold purification of an alkaline fructose diphosphatase ( d -fructose-1,6-diphosphate) 1-phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.11) from Euglena gracilis strain Z is described. 2. 2. The purified fructose diphosphatase activity is inhibited by p -chloromercuribenzoate and sodium fluoride and enhanced by Mg 2+ and EDTA. Of the substrates tested, only fructose diphosphate was hydrolyzed by the enzyme. The pH optimum in Tris buffer was around 8.25. 3. 3. There is an optimum Mg 2+ /Fru-1,6- P 2 ratio for activity at pH 8.25 of approx. 20.0. An EDTA enhancement of activity was found to depend on both the Mg 2+ /Fru-1,6- P 2 ratio and the degree of purification of the Fru-1,6- P 2 .
Social-Cognitive Processes in Behavioral Health Implications for Counseling

Social cognitive variables are salient factors in the prevention, development, and maintenance of health-related problems. These variables are of particular interest to counseling psychologists, as they are amenable to a variety of psychological interventions. We review several social-cognitive processes that have been studied in relation to behavioral health and health-related problems. We then discuss implications for assessment and theory-based interventions.
Three Signaling Systems for Double Access to an Active Satellite

An active satellite is modeled as a repeater with a summer at its input and with a constant power output. The effectiveness of the following digital communication strategies for a constant bandwidth are compared in terms of R copm of the resulting channel: 1) "time pulsing," 2) "frequency division," and 3) "CW signaling,'' where both transmitters simultaneously use the entire bandwidth while transmitting not necessarily synchronized or equal power signals, which are chosen from the same M -ary alphabet and have identical duration. R comp formulas are obtained, and parametric families of their curves are given. Among others, the following conclusions may be drawn: 1) For sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratios, CW signaling is best, the potential improvement increasing with increasing alphabet size. 2) Noncoincidence of time intervals of the two transmitters improves the performance of CW signaling.
Determinants of Firm Survival in E-Markets: An Analysis with Software Service Providers

This research studies the shakeout in an e-market for software implementation service providers following the introduction of signaling mechanisms in the marketplace. We use theories from research on information economics, trust, and service marketing. We also distinguish between signals on provider technical competence such as education and experience from signals on providers' functional competence such as 'preferred provider' status and feedback ratings that are related to buyers' satisfaction with their interaction with the service provider during the service process. Our empirical results support the key role played by the signals in inducing the separating equilibrium that leads to the shakeout among software implementation service providers in an e-market.
Iteratively decodable codes for bridging the shaping gap in communication channels

We consider the power-constrained complex memoryless additive white Gaussian noise channel whose channel inputs are drawn from a finite alphabet. It is well known that if the probability mass function over the finite alphabet is uniform, a shaping gap is created that asymptotically approaches 1.53 dB as the constellation cardinality approaches infinity. In a recent paper, we proposed a method to compute the shaping gap for a finite alphabet size and finite SNR. Here, we take advantage of the constellations that can be represented as cross products of the in-phase (real) and quadrature (imaginary) unidimensional constellations. For a 256-QAM constellation, we construct separate simple in-phase and quadrature inner trellis codes whose combined information rate bridges (and nearly closes) the shaping gap. We then demonstrate that a judiciously constructed outer iteratively decodable low-density parity-check code performs inside the shaping gap, which is very near the channel capacity.
Microstructure and Electronic Properties of Thin Film Nanoporous Silica as a Function of Processing and Annealing Methods

Alcogels, aerogel precursors, were prepared by hydrolysis and condensation of the metal alkoxide tetraethylorthosilicate and were catalyzed by both acids and bases, according to a standard reaction. Alcogel solution was spin coated onto p-type silicon wafers and fluid extraction was achieved in an uncontrolled (room temperature, atmospheric pressure) environment. Film porosity was retained through surface modification and/or low vapor pressure solvent techniques. The microstructure and electronic properties of the resulting films were evaluated using non-contact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM), cross sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Metal insulator semiconductor (MIS) devices were prepared and current-voltage and capacitance-voltage measurements were obtained from these devices. Annealing studies reveal a dramatic temperature dependent effect on both the microstructure and electronic properties of the porous silica films.
The conserved active site motif A of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I is highly mutable.

Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I participates in DNA replication, DNA repair, and genetic recombination; it is the most extensively studied of all DNA polymerases. Motif A in the polymerase active site has a required role in catalysis and is highly conserved. To assess the tolerance of motif A for amino acid substitutions, we determined the mutability of the 13 constituent amino acids Val 700 ‐Arg 712 by using random mutagenesis and genetic selection. We observed that every residue except the catalytically essential Asp 705 can be mutated while allowing bacterial growth and preserving wild-type DNA polymerase activity. Hence, the primary structure of motif A is plastic. We present evidence that mutability of motif A has been conserved during evolution, supporting the premise that the tolerance for mutation is adaptive. In addition, our work allows identification of refinements in catalytic function that may contribute to preservation of the wildtype motif A sequence. As an example, we established that the naturally occurring Ile 709 has a previously undocumented role in supporting sugar discrimination.
Carotenoids in human buccal mucosa cells after 4 wk of supplementation with tomato juice or lycopene supplements

Background: Lycopene has been identified as a phytochemical with potentially protective health benefits. Objective: Our objective was to monitor lycopene changes in buccal mucosa cells (BMCs) in response to 3 vehicles for oral delivery of lycopene. Design: Fifteen healthy subjects ingested lycopene-rich tomato juice, tomato oleoresin, lycopene beadlets (each containing 70‐75 mg lycopene) and a placebo for 4 wk each in a randomized crossover design while consuming self-selected diets. A 6-wk washout period separated the treatment periods. BMCs were collected at baseline and after 4 wk of supplementation. Results: Lycopene in BMCs increased significantly (<2-fold) after 4 wk of ingestion of oleoresin and of beadlets to 4.95 ( P < 0.001) and 3.75 mg/g protein (P = 0.053), respectively, but was not significantly affected by tomato juice treatment. The placebo treatment produced a significant decrease in BMC lycopene concentrations (P = 0.018). We observed significant treatment differences between oleoresin and tomato juice, oleoresin and placebo, and beadlets and placebo. BMC concentrations of phytofluene and b-carotene, which were present in small amounts in the lycopene-containing treatments, increased significantly with ingestion of these products. Strong correlations were found between plasma and BMC concentrations of lutein, b-cryptoxanthin, a-carotene, and b-carotene. In contrast, correlations between lycopene concentrations in plasma and in BMCs were weak and not significant for any treatment. Conclusions: The cellular content of lycopene and other tomatorelated carotenoids with proposed beneficial health effects can be increased through prolonged supplementation. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70:490‐4.
The Effect of 3-Year Treatment with 0.25 mg/day of Micronized 17β-Estradiol on Cognitive Function in Older Postmenopausal Women

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of ultra-low-dose (0.25 mg/d) micronized 17β-estradiol on cognitive function in older postmenopausal women. DESIGN: Randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted for 3 years. SETTING: Academic health center in greater Hartford, Connecticut. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty-seven healthy, community-dwelling, older postmenopausal women. INTERVENTION: Women received 0.25 mg/d of micronized 17β-estradiol (estrogen therapy (ET), n=32) or placebo (n=25); all women who had not had a hysterectomy received 100 mg/d of oral micronized progesterone for 2-week periods every 6 months. MEASUREMENTS: Neuropsychological measures of memory, language, mood, and executive function were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 36 months. Measures of executive function included the Controlled Oral Word Association Test, the Trail Making Test, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. The Boston Naming Test was used to measure language skills. The Symbol Digit Modalities Test was used as a measure of sustained attention. Measures of memory included the Complex Figure Test, Fuld Object Memory Test, and a selected subtest from the Wechsler Memory Scale. Scores from the Geriatric Depression Scale and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to assess symptoms of depression. RESULTS: No differences were found between ET and placebo on any of the neurocognitive measures or depression instruments, nor were there any differences when the groups were stratified according to age. CONCLUSION: This small study, which had adequate power to detect change in some but not all domains of cognition tested, revealed that low-dose estrogen neither benefits nor harms cognitive function in older women after 3 years of treatment, but confirmation is needed from larger trials.
Real-time dynamic state estimation using synchrophasor data

Real-time state estimation is one of the important tools for modern control center operation in this smart grid era. Efficient and accurate dynamic state estimation is essential for a reliable operation of power system. Synchrophasor technology or PMU devices provide the technological advantage to perform efficient and accurate dynamic real-time state estimation. In this study, a real-time dynamic state estimation tool with graphical user interface (GUI) has been developed and tested. It involves the setup of a phasor data concentrator (PDC) with SQL server database which stores streaming phasor measurements coming over the Internet. A new algorithm to identify the optimal PMU placements is also proposed in this study. It is found that this new algorithm is computationally very fast and efficient. A real-time simulation model of IEEE 39 Bus system has been developed in Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) and is used to stream phasor data from the real-time simulation. OpenPDC has been used as PDC front-end software and MS SQL server has been used as back-end PDC database server. MATLAB has been used to develop real-time state estimator tool with GUI and successful testing has been performed.
Effect of geometry on the strain in electronic packages

Due to mismatch in the coefficients of thermal expansion of the components of an electronic package, mechanical strains are induced which may cause package failure under thermal load. An experimental method of fractional fringe Moire interferometry enhanced by digital image processing was used to investigate those strains. This technique is a full field displacement measurement tool possessing high sensitivity and excellent spatial resolution. Therefore, the relatively small regions, such as chip corners, which are thought to be high strain concentration zones, were easily examined. Several packages which had chips of different sizes were investigated. The resulting Moire patterns were recorded and analyzed. The results revealed that the mechanical strains which are due to mismatch in the coefficients of thermal expansion of the chip, leadframe, and encapsulant are on the order of thousands microstrains and the strains in the long chip package are lower than those in the package with a short chip specimen at 90 degrees C. >
Enhancement of fracture toughness due to energy screening effectin the early stages of non‐elastic failure

A triaxiality-dependent cohesive zone model for a stationary and a quasistatic crack is proposed. The model is rooted in the mesomechanical approach to Fracture Mechanics and is inspired by the quantum law concerning emission of light, which was postulated by Max Planck at the end of the 19th century. The model provides an extension of the early concepts of Barenblatt, Dugdale and the Bilby–Cotrell–Swinden team. It also incorporates the experimental observations of the pre-fracture states due to Panin and his school in Tomsk. Relations between micro- and macroparameters that characterize the deformation and fracture processes in dissipative media are described in detail. The analysis suggests that the ratio of the ‘true’ work of fracture to the total energy dissipated during the course of the irreversible deformation contained within the end zone can be used as a measure of material resistance to a quasistatically propagating fracture.
Understanding the Influence of Perceived Norms on Behaviors

Although a number of studies demonstrate the impact of perceived norms on human behavior we know little about how this relation works. Extant norms-based campaigns to reduce alcohol consumption among U.S. college students fail to distinguish between descriptive and injunctive norms. In this article we make this distinction and we develop a model of normative influences that also includes the impact of group identity and communication patterns of students alcohol consumption. Based on a survey of college students (N = 353) we found that descriptive and injunctive norms were different in terms of their impact on behavior. Furthermore the inclusion of group identity and communication patterns significantly added to the explanatory power of our model. Overall we were able to explain roughly 53% of the variance in consumption. (authors)
Optimization Of Stochastic Systems Via Simulation

In this paper, we discuss some research issues related to the general topic of optimizing a stochastic system via simulation. In particular, we devote extensive attention to finite-difference estimators of objective function gradients and present a number of new limit theorems. We also discuss a new family of orthogonal function approximations to the global behavior of the objective function. We show that if the objective function is sufficiently smooth, the convergence rate can be made arbitrarily close to n-1/2 in the number of observations required. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of how these ideas can be integrated into an optimization algorithm.
Belief maintenance in a natural language system

A method for belief maintenance for a natural language system is proposed. Based on uncertainty values and the interlinkage of directly asserted and derived propositions, the method provides a means for the postponement of a decision regarding the reason for a contradiction, and includes algorithms that perform nonmonotonic reasoning on a commonsense knowledge base in a manner consistent with humanlike, informal reasoning. >
The Law and Economics of Subprime Lending

The collapse of the subprime mortgage market has led to calls for greater regulation to protect homeowners from unwittingly trapping themselves in high-cost loans that lead to foreclosure, bankruptcy, or other financial problems. Weighed against this catastrophe are the benefits that have accrued to millions of American families who have been able to become homeowners who otherwise would not have access to mortgage credit. Although the bust of the subprime mortgage market has resulted in high levels of foreclosures and even problems on Wall Street, the boom generated unprecedented levels of homeownership, especially among young, low-income, and minority borrowers, putting them on a road to economic comfort and stability. Sensible regulation of subprime lending should seek to curb abusive practices while preserving these benefits. This article reviews the theories and evidence regarding the causes of the turmoil in the subprime market. It then turns to the question of the rising foreclosures in that market in order to understand the causes of rising foreclosures. In particular, we examine the competing models of home foreclosures that have been developed in the economics literature - the distress model and the option model. Establishing a correct model of the causes of foreclosure in the subprime market is necessary for sensible and effective policy responses to the problem. Finally, we review some of the policy initiatives that have been suggested in response to the crisis in the subprime market. Because new regulatory interventions will have costs as well as benefits, until the causes of the market's problems are better understood it may be that the best policy in the short-term is to do little until well-tailored regulatory approaches are available.
Expectant Mothers Maximizing Opportunities: Maternal Characteristics Moderate Multifactorial Prenatal Stress in the Prediction of Birth Weight in a Sample of Children Adopted at Birth

Background Mothers’ stress in pregnancy is considered an environmental risk factor in child development. Multiple stressors may combine to increase risk, and maternal personal characteristics may offset the effects of stress. This study aimed to test the effect of 1) multifactorial prenatal stress, integrating objective “stressors” and subjective “distress” and 2) the moderating effects of maternal characteristics (perceived social support, self-esteem and specific personality traits) on infant birthweight. Method Hierarchical regression modeling was used to examine cross-sectional data on 403 birth mothers and their newborns from an adoption study. Results Distress during pregnancy showed a statistically significant association with birthweight (R2 = 0.032, F(2, 398) = 6.782, p = .001). The hierarchical regression model revealed an almost two-fold increase in variance of birthweight predicted by stressors as compared with distress measures (R2Δ = 0.049, F(4, 394) = 5.339, p < .001). Further, maternal characteristics moderated this association (R2Δ = 0.031, F(4, 389) = 3.413, p = .009). Specifically, the expected benefit to birthweight as a function of higher SES was observed only for mothers with lower levels of harm-avoidance and higher levels of perceived social support. Importantly, the results were not better explained by prematurity, pregnancy complications, exposure to drugs, alcohol or environmental toxins. Conclusions The findings support multidimensional theoretical models of prenatal stress. Although both objective stressors and subjectively measured distress predict birthweight, they should be considered distinct and cumulative components of stress. This study further highlights that jointly considering risk factors and protective factors in pregnancy improves the ability to predict birthweight.
Environmental variation and cohort effects in an Antarctic predator

Understanding the potential influence of environmental variation experienced by animals during early stages of development on their subsequent demographic performance can contribute to our understanding of population processes and aid in predicting impacts of global climate change on ecosystem functioning. Using data from 4,178 tagged female Weddell seal pups born into 20 different cohorts, and 30 years of observations of the tagged seals, we evaluated the hypothesis that environmental conditions experienced by young seals, either indirectly through maternal effects and/or directly during the initial period of juvenile nutritional independence, have long-term effects on individual demographic performance. We documented an approximately 3-fold difference in the proportion of each cohort that returned to the pupping colonies and produced a pup within the first 10 years after birth. We found only weak evidence for a correlation between annual environmental conditions during the juvenile-independence period and cohort recruitment probability. Instead, the data strongly supported an association between cohort recruitment probability and the regional extent of sea ice experienced by the mother during the winter the pup was in utero. We suggest that inter-annual variation in winter sea-ice extent influences the foraging success of pregnant seals by moderating the regional abundance of competing predators that cannot occupy areas of consolidated sea ice, and by directly influencing the abundance of mid-trophic prey species that are sea-ice obligates. We hypothesize that this environmentally-induced variation in maternal nutrition dictates the extent of maternal energetic investment in offspring, resulting in cohort variation in mean size of pups at weaning which, in turn, contributes to an individual?s phenotype and its ultimate fitness. These linkages between sea ice and trophic dynamics, combined with demonstrated and predicted changes in the duration and extent of sea ice associated with climate change, suggest significant alterations in Antarctic marine ecosystems in the future.
Multi-static Radar Target Tracking Using Information Consensus Filters

In this paper, the information consensus filter (ICF) is adapted to non-linear process and measurement models by employing an extended information filter (EIF). The nonlinear ICF is a decentralized estimator, where each node in the sensor network maintains a local estimate. A node’s local observations are fused with the local estimate, and the new information is communicated throughout the network by a consensus filter. We apply the non-linear ICF to a multi-static radar tracking system, where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) act as mobile adaptive radar receivers. Each UAV maintains a local track of the target using the non-linear ICF, and for a small UAV team, it is shown that the accuracy of the decentralized non-linear ICF is similar to that of the estimate in an centralized extended information filter.
Critical Security Studies and World Politics

Critical Security Studies and World Politics. Edited by Ken Booth. Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2005. 336p. $62.00 cloth, $24.50 paper.Ken Booth has tasked himself and his contributors (particularly chapters by S. Smith, A. Linklater, H. Alker, and R. Wyn Jones) with sorting out the menagerie of theoretical criticisms often identified as either critical or in some way as alternatives to realism, including not only those that directly engage questions of security—“securitization” theorists and constructivists—but also the various “post” (modern, structural, positivist, colonial) theoretical critiques. Though on the whole the book rejects both realism and poststructuralism, the contributors do find some common ground with and among “critical,” “post,” and “alternative” writers on the question of improving the human condition (as an implicit goal of criticism), and applauds those who engage ethical issues to the extent that criticism is undertaken in order to reveal and confront, if not overcome, oppression.
Predicting a Behavioral Profile for Pleasure Travelers on the Basis of Internet Use Segmentation

In an attempt to create a behavioral profile of pleasure travelers segmented based on Internet use, 5,319 pleasure travelers were interviewed. Initially, the respondents were classified as an Internet user or Internet nonuser based on whether or not they would use the Internet to seek travel-related information. Using discriminant analysis, chi square, and analysis of variance statistical techniques, a profile of demographic and behavioral characteristics was created. The results of this study suggest that people who use the Internet to search for travel-related information are likely to be people who are (a) college-educated owners of computers, (b) less than 45 years of age, (c) stay more often in commercial lodging establishments, and (d) spend more money each day while traveling. Implications for marketing managers and future research are discussed.
Update on Surgical Principles and Equipment

The diversity implicit in exotic animal surgery requires a tailored approach to optimize successful outcomes. Outlined is information on patient preparation, instrumentation, hemostatic techniques, and magnification as it pertains to the exotic animal. Application of topical antiseptic solutions and judicious removal of pelage and feathers will decrease bacterial load during patient preparation. The use of specific barrier protection ensures proper aseptic technique and enables optimal patient monitoring. Magnification combined with a focal light source enhances visual acuity, allowing for better use of delicate instrumentation and identification of anatomic structures.
Far Infrared Magneto-optical Studies of Shallow Impurities in GaAs/AlGaAs Multiple-Quantum-Well Structures

Infrared and far infrared (FIR) magnetospectroscopy has been an important tool for the study of semiconductors for more than 30 years. With advances in materials growth techniques high quality, thin semiconductor films and repeated structures with compositional control in the growth direction on the scale of one or two monolayers, and well-controlled selective doping can be produced. These techniques have been used to grow structures both for basic physical studies and for novel device applications. Detailed understanding of the nature of the impurity states in these structures is important in both areas.
Cultural Beliefs and Disability: Implications for Rehabilitation Counsellors

This article discusses cultural beliefs and disability and how they can impact the rehabilitation process. It specifically addresses the importance of understanding and acknowledging how different cultures view disability. Diversity considerations for counsellors when working with clients from differing backgrounds are also discussed. Due to the ever-changing demographics of the world’s population, it is imperative that counsellors have a working knowledge of the cultural impact of disability. Acquiring, retaining and cultivating how different cultures respond to disability is an ongoing process for counsellors and for their multicultural competence development.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Staphylococcus aureus Carriage in a Community-Based Sample of Mexican-Americans in Starr County, Texas.

Staphylococcus aureus is the number one cause of hospital-acquired infections. Understanding host pathogen interactions is paramount to the development of more effective treatment and prevention strategies. Therefore, whole exome sequence and chip-based genotype data were used to conduct rare variant and genome-wide association analyses in a Mexican-American cohort from Starr County, Texas to identify genes and variants associated with S. aureus nasal carriage. Unlike most studies of S. aureus that are based on hospitalized populations, this study used a representative community sample. Two nasal swabs were collected from participants (n = 858) 11–17 days apart between October 2009 and December 2013, screened for the presence of S. aureus, and then classified as either persistent, intermittent, or non-carriers. The chip-based and exome sequence-based single variant association analyses identified 1 genome-wide significant region (KAT2B) for intermittent and 11 regions suggestively associated with persistent or intermittent S. aureus carriage. We also report top findings from gene-based burden analyses of rare functional variation. Notably, we observed marked differences between signals associated with persistent and intermittent carriage. In single variant analyses of persistent carriage, 7 of 9 genes in suggestively associated regions and all 5 top gene-based findings are associated with cell growth or tight junction integrity or are structural constituents of the cytoskeleton, suggesting that variation in genes associated with persistent carriage impact cellular integrity and morphology.
Do Supreme Court Justices Play the Legitimacy Card? Evidence of an Emerging Strategic Tactic

Do contemporary Supreme Court justices use the prospect of legitimacy loss to persuade and pressure wayward colleagues? Using an original database, this study finds that they do. The data show that justices issue strategic warnings about potential legitimacy loss, that the use of these warnings has increased dramatically over the past several decades, and that they are more common in dissents and nonunanimous cases. Results of three cross-case comparisons also suggest that the use of this strategic instrument may have some effect on case outcomes. Together, these findings offer students of judicial behavior insight into a previously undocumented strategic tactic. Future research is needed to examine this emerging phenomenon further and explore its implications.
Minimal arm lymphedema after breast conservation therapy

10527 Background: Arm lymphedema (ALE) is a serious consequence of the treatment for breast carcinoma. The objective of the current retrospective study was to analyze the time-course of minimal ALE...
Source of a Substance in Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) that Elicits a Searching Response in Its Habitual Parasite Cardiochiles nigriceps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)

A substance which the parasite Cardiochiles nigriceps Viereck utilizes in locating its host apparently is produced in the mandibular glands of Heliothis virescens (F.). This material is secreted by the host primarily during feeding, and on contact with it the parasite is stimulated to begin directed searching movements for its host.
Escherichia coli Resistance to Ethionine.

SummaryEthionine resistance in E. coli ATCC 9637 occurs at a high frequency and requires the constant presence of the analogue to maintain resistance. Resistant cells exhibited a lag phase 6 to 8 hours longer than sensitive cell controls when cultured in a glucose salts medium. This extended lag was reduced to that of sensitive cell controls by ethionine, methionine, homocysteine or cystathionine. A similar prolonged lag occurred when sensitive cells, previously grown in the presence of methionine, homocysteine or cystathionine, were inoculated in basal glucose salts media. The extended lag in all cases tested was due to the rapid death of a significant portion of the initial inoculum during the first hour of incubation. Resistant cells were repressed for cystathionine synthetase to the same degree as sensitive cells grown in media containing methionine. The data indicate that ethionine resistance in this strain occurs by an induced ability to convert ethionine to methionine via homocysteine, which result...
Tritium-Labeled Compounds XII. Note on the Synthesis of d-Glucose-2-t and d-Mannose-2-t.

d-Glucose-2-t and d-mannose-2-t have been synthesized from sodium 2-keto-d-gluconate (sodium d-arabino-hexulosonate). Reduction of the salt with lithium borohydride-t produced the epimeric, 2-labeled aldonic acids in almost equal proportions. The acids, separated by carrier techniques, were lactonized, and the lactones were reduced with sodium amalgam to the corresponding sugars. The specificity of the labeling was established by converting each sugar into d-arabino-hexulose phenylosazone and determining that the osazone was substantially tritium-free.
REPORT OF MONITORING RESULTS OF DISINFECTION EFFICACY IN MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS IN YA′AN CITY

Objective To Know the disinfection quality in medical institutions of Ya'an city and prefecture level,in order to provide basis for control nosocomial infection.Methods Field sampling and bacterial examination method were used to detect the disinfection and sterilization quality of the medical institutions.Results The eligible rates of air disinfection in indoor air of medical institutional of city and prefecture level from 2004 to 2008 were 80.52% and 71.10% respectively.The eligible rates of performance surface were 95.79% and 89.41% respectively.The eligible rates of medical staff hands were 93.75% and 91.43% respectively.The eligible rates of aseptic instrumental preserve solution were 94.81% and 81.68% respectively.The eligible rate of disinfectants in use was all 100%.Conclusions The quality of disinfection and sterilization in Ya'an medical institutions of city and prefecture level was good.The disinfection quality of indoor air should be improved.
Genetic discrimination in a time of false hopes.

I. THE PROBLEM OF GENETIC DISCRIMINATION IN HEALTH COVERAGE 365 II. THE LAW’S RESPONSE TO GENETIC DISCRIMINATION IN HEALTH INSURANCE. . 368 A. Federal Law 368 1. The Murky Role of the ADA 368 2. HIPAA’s Specific but Limited Protections 372 B. State Laws: Evolution and Limits 373 III. EQUALIZING COVERAGE: SHORT TERM CONCERNS 375 A. Ambiguities in the Law: Speaking Clearly 376 B. Avoiding the Effect of Clear Laws: Covert Discrimination 380 IV. THE FUTURE OF GENETIC DISCRIMINATION 386 A. Adverse Selection and Exceptionalism 387 1. Regulating Around Adverse Selection 387 2. Exceptionalism, Incrementalism, and Social Pooling 390 B. Scarcity and Equity 394 CONCLUSION 398
Formalizing the impact of diversity on performance in a heterogeneous swarm of robots

We are interested in a principled study of the impact of diversity in heterogeneous large-scale distributed robotic systems. In order to evaluate the implications of heterogeneity on performance, we consider the concrete problem of distributing a large group of robots among a set of tasks that require specialized capabilities in order to be completed. We model the system of heterogeneous robots as a community of species, where each species (robot type) is defined by the traits (capabilities) that it owns. We develop a continuous model of the system at a macroscopic level, and formulate an optimization problem that produces an optimal set of transition rates for each species, so that the desired trait distribution is reached as quickly as possible. In order to evaluate the effects of heterogeneity, we propose a diversity metric that defines the notion of eigenspecies. We show that our metric correlates with performance: the higher the cardinality of the eigenspecies, the harder it becomes to optimize the system. Our approach is validated over multiple levels of abstraction, and real robot results confirm its validity on physical platforms.
Severe penile curvature after implantation of an inflatable penile prosthesis

We describe 6 cases of penile curvature following implantation of inflatable penile prostheses. Exploration revealed severe scarring of the corpora cavernosa, which produced the curvature in 4 patients. In all 4 cases this area was incised and the defect was filled with a polytetrafluoroethylene vascular graft. The penis was straightened and the prosthesis functioned normally. The remaining 2 patients were treated with inflation for 8 weeks with resolution of the curvature. To our knowledge, these cases represent the first reported complications produced by abnormal scar tissue outside of the inflammatory pseudocapsule after implantation of an inflatable penile prosthesis.