cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tests against face flies on cattle in New Jersey during 1961.

In 1961 face flies (Musca autumnalis De Geer) were not numerous on New Jersey cattle until in late June and early July, when they became increasingly more annoying, even in southern coastal areas where in 1960 they had been the least troublesome. Since in 1960 temporary relief had been obtained from some insecticides or insecticides plus baits or repellents, tests were continued with various formulations applied in liquid form with customary apparatus and also with specialized equipment such as a mechanic’s pump-oiler. In tests on the suitability of various dust applications, beginning with an extension of the laboratory studies of stabilized insecticide dusts, it was found that 1.0% or 2.0% stabilized DDVP markedly reduced face fly annoyance for 6 to 9 hours after application, while DDVP on pyrax was ineffective. DDVP as a combination of water-base spray (at 0.2.5%) applied to the bodies of the animals or a paint or liquid treatment (at 0.5%) on the faces was generally not so effective as the stabilized dust. A stabilized Ortho Dibrom® (1,2-dibromo-2,2-dichloroethyl dimethyl phosphate) dust (4%) and Dibrom spray (0.6%) provided 50% to 60% reduction for the day of application, but both formulations appeared to cause discomfort to the animals and to the persons who made the applications. When larger quantitites of water-base sprays, 1 pint per animal, were used, SD-4294(dimethy12-( alpha -methylbenzyloxycarbonyl)-1-methylvinyl phosphate) and Gen. Chemical 4072 (2-chloro-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl) vinyl diethyl phosphate) (0.5%) provided 50% to 60% protection on the day following application, with the latter formulation being slightly superior to the Shell product. Other formulations tried in this way which provided up to 6 but not usually more than 6 hours protection were 1% Bayer 37344 spray (4-(methylthio)-3,5-xylyl methylcarbamate) and 0.12% Diazinon® ( O,O -diethyl O -(2-isopropyl-4-methyl-6-pyri-midinyl) phosphorothioate). Some protection was also obtained on day of application from 1% dimethoate as a paint on the faces of the animals; 1% of 2,4 dimethyl benzyl chrysanthemumate spray; synergized pyrethrins as a pressure spray, and as an oil-base spray with Crag Fly Repellent® (butoxy polypropylene glycol) or MGK 1207 (3-chloropropyl n -octyl sulfoxide); and 2% Lethane 384®, (beta -butoxy- beta -thiocyanodiethyl ether) plus Crag Fly Repellent in oil. Starting with stock material obtained in the field, a small colony of face flies was successfully reared in the laboratory for four generations.
Determining the effective cutoff wavelength of single-mode fibers: An interlaboratory comparison

The National Bureau of Standards (NBS), in cooperation with the Electronic Industries Association, conducted an interlaboratory measurement comparison among six fiber manufacturers to determine the effective cutoff wavelength of single-mode fibers. Measurement techniques based on transmitted power were used to determine cutoff wavelength on four fibers designed for single-mode operation at 1300 nm. NBS also contributed results using a spectral near-field technique. One standard deviation measurement spreads for the various techniques range from 6 to 12 nm. With the appropriate data analysis, single bend attenuation and power step methods give the same results. Both techniques are easily implemented as extensions to the usual spectral attenuation measurement.
Measuring mating preferences: the use of Manly's beta

The use of Manly's (1985) statistic β, in mate choice experiments is discussed. Beta is a measure of the homogamic mating preference of one sex (usually females) of a strain. Beta has several advantages over previously proposed measures of deviation from random mating: (a) its sampling distribution is known and hence it can be used in establishing confidence intervals and in hypothesis testing; (b) this distribution is continuous and unimodal, even when fairly small numbers of individuals are used; (c) beta is not affected by changes in the numbers of individuals used (provided the preference remains constant); (d) it is not affected by changes in the ratios of the two strains, and (e) it is not affected by the proportions of females mated. Several properties of β and its estimate from an experiment, , are derived and have been verified for a wide range of conditions using computer simulations. Their consequences for experiments attempting to quantify sexual isolation are discussed. Finally, statistics to measure the significance of values are given.
Induction of ovulation and multiple ovulation in seasonally-anovulatory mares with equine pituitary fractions.

Abstract Equine pituitary fractions were used to induce ovulation in seasonally-anovulatory pony mares. Over three experiments, 87% of mares ovulated following twice daily injections for 14 days of equine pituitary fractions. Of the mares which ovulated, 58% had 2 or more ovulations/estrus.
Material removal in abrasive waterjet machining of metals : A residual stress analysis

Abstract The influence of cutting parameters and material properties on the residual stress fields resulting from abrasive waterjet (AWJ) machining of metals was analyzed. The measurement and evaluation were conducted using X-ray diffraction with the sin2ψ and X-ray integral method (RIM) of analyses. For all materials and cutting conditions, a significant bi-axial compressive residual stress was observed in the plane of the machined surface. Although the normal stresses increased in magnitude with larger abrasive sizes, changes in cutting pressure had minimal influence. In addition, no clear trends were apparent between the mechanical properties of the metals and residual stress fields. However, it was found that the magnitude of residual stresses in the plane of the machined surface increased considerably with the material's melting temperature.
Associations between Dietary Intake of Choline and Betaine and Lung Cancer Risk

Evidence from human and animal research indicates that choline metabolic pathways may be activated during a variety of diseases, including cancer. We report results of a case-control study of 2821 lung cancer cases and 2923 controls that assessed associations of choline and betaine dietary intakes with lung cancer. Using multivariable logistic regression analyses, we report a significant association between higher betaine intake and lower lung cancer risk that varied by smoking status. Specifically, no significant association was observed between betaine intake and lung cancer among never-smokers. However, higher betaine intake was significantly associated with reduced lung cancer risk among smokers, and the protective effect was more evident among current than former smokers: for former and current smokers, the ORs (95% CI) of lung cancer for individuals with highest as compared to lowest quartiles of intake were 0.70(0.55–0.88) and 0.51(0.39–0.66) respectively. Significant linear trend of higher betaine intake and lower lung cancer risk was observed among both former (ptrend = 0.002) and current (ptrend<0.0001) smokers. A similar protective effect was also observed with choline intake both in overall analysis as well as among current smokers, with p-values for chi-square tests being 0.001 and 0.004 respectively, but the effect was less evident, as no linear trend was observed. Our results suggest that choline and betaine intake, especially higher betaine intake, may be protective against lung cancer through mitigating the adverse effect of smoking.
Comments on a Paper by Gaver

In a 1967 publication, D. P. Gaver studied a probabilistic model of a multiprogramming computer system. His results have been utilized recently by a number of authors. However, we have observed that Gaver's results contain inconsistencies. These inconsistencies are discussed in detail and a correction suggested and verified through an independent derivation.
The conservative management of facial fractures: indications and outcomes

Summary Background With little in the published literature on the conservative management of facial fractures we set out to determine whether our current criteria for treatment are valid. Method Two hundred and thirty adult patients with fractures of the facial skeleton were treated conservatively by our unit between February 1997 and January 2003. Their notes were reviewed retrospectively. Results Most patients were males (76%), the average age was 38 years, and drugs or alcohol were a significant aspect of the history in 30% of the cases. The most common mechanism of injury was assault (47%), followed by falls and sporting injuries. Fifty percent of the fractures involved the orbital or orbito-zygomatic complex, and 55% had associated injuries. Average follow-up was for six weeks (range 0–44 weeks). Most patients were managed conservatively based on our current criteria of un-displaced/minimally displaced fracture (57%); or minimal/no symptoms (24%). At final review, a number had residual symptoms, but only three required corrective surgery. The other reasons for conservative management included patient non-compliance (11%), and medical contraindications (8%). Conclusion Our results support current indications for the conservative management of facial fractures, but emphasise the need for ongoing follow-up of these patients.
Activation of natural killer (NK) cells in vivo with H-2 and non-H-2 alloantigens.

Intraperitoneal inoculation of allogeneic lymphoid cells rapidly activates cytotoxic cells in the peritoneum which are nonadherent and express the NK-1, asialo-GM1, and Thy-1 antigens. Allogeneic spleen cells were very efficient at activating these natural killer (NK) cells, while allogeneic thymocytes were much less effective. Heat-killed allogeneic cells or sonicates also could augment NK activity. — Incompatibility atH-2K, H-2I-A, orH- 2D readily evoked NK cell activity, whileH-2S- andH-2I-E/C-associated disparities did not. Non-H- 2 differences also stimulated NK activity and augmentation was particularly evident inMls-disparate combinations. Thus, the same alloantigens which efficiently activate T cells also activate NK cells.
A model to predict when a cholera outbreak might hit the Congo

In 2011, as many as 600,000 people in 58 countries contracted cholera, with thousands succumbing to the disease. In most countries, cholera is rare. In others, like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, cholera is an endemic threat, always lurking in the background waiting for the right set of conditions to spark an outbreak.
Characterization of the Outer Membrane Protein OprF of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a Lipopolysaccharide Membrane by Computer Simulation

The N-terminal domain of outer membrane protein OprF of Pseudomonas aeruginosa forms a membrane spanning eight-stranded anti-parallel β-barrel domain that folds into a membrane channel with low conductance. The structure of this protein has been modeled after the crystal structure of the homologous protein OmpA of Escherichia coli. A number of molecular dynamics simulations have been carried out for the homology modeled structure of OprF in an explicit molecular model for the rough lipopolysaccharide (LPS) outer membrane of P. aeruginosa. The structural stability of the outer membrane model as a result of the strong electrostatic interactions compared to simple lipid bilayers is restricting both the conformational flexibility and the lateral diffusion of the porin in the membrane. Constricting side-chain interactions within the pore are similar to those found in reported simulations of the protein in a solvated lipid bilayer membrane. Because of the strong interactions between the loop regions of OprF and functional groups in the saccharide core of the LPS, the entrance to the channel from the extracellular space is widened compared to the lipid bilayer simulations in which the loops are extruding in the solvent. The specific electrostatic signature of the LPS membrane, which results in a netmore » intrinsic dipole across the membrane, is found to be altered by the presence of OprF, resulting in a small electrically positive patch at the position of the channel.« less
Woman suffrage and women's rights

An essential examination of the woman suffrage movement In recent decades, the woman suffrage movement has taken on new significance for women's history. Ellen Carol DuBois has been a central figure in spurring renewed interest in woman suffrage and in realigning the debates which surround it. This volume gathers DuBois' most influential articles on woman suffrage and includes two new essays. The collection traces the trajectory of the suffrage story against the backdrop of changing attitudes to politics, citizenship and gender, and the resultant tensions over such issues as slavery and abolitionism, sexuality and religion, and class and politics. Connecting the essays is DuBois' belief in the continuing importance of political and reform movements as an object of historical inquiry and a force in shaping gender. The book, which includes a highly original reconceptualization of women's rights from Mary Wollstonecraft to contemporary abortion and gay rights activists and a historiographical overview of suffrage scholarship, provides an excellent overview of the movement, including international as well as U.S. suffragism, in the context of women's broader concerns for social and political justice.
A rare cause of noncirrhotic intrahepatic portal hypertension.

Question: A 38-year-old woman with history of splenomegaly and thrombocytopenia was referred to the outpatient hepatology office after an extensive negative hematologic and infectious workup. On physical examination, the patient seemed to be comfortable with a blood pressure of 110/65 mm Hg and heart rate of 72 bpm. Her abdominal examination showed an enlarged spleen. A rectal examination revealed brown stool without melena. Laboratory evaluation revealed a white blood cell count of 4,800/mL, hemoglobin of 11.3 g/dL (baseline, 12.2 g/dL), platelets 53 10/mL (baseline, 70 10/mL), creatinine of 0.6 mg/dL, prothrombin time of 12 seconds, and International Normalized Ratio of 1.1. Electrolytes, amylase, lipase, liver chemistry tests, ceruloplasmin, and immunoglobulin levels were normal. Anti-smooth muscle antibody and antimitochondrial antibody were negative. Pertinent review of systems revealed that the patient is a current tobacco user with a 10-year pack history and a former user of intravenous heroine. Abdominal ultrasonography with Doppler revealed a diffusely heterogeneous liver parenchyma and enlarged spleen measuring 20.2 cm with a patent splenic vein (Figure A). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated multiple columns of large esophageal varices in the lower third of the esophagus (Figure B). A colonoscopy demonstrated small to medium sized, nonbleeding rectal varices. Both studies were consistent with portal hypertension. A transjugular core liver biopsy was performed and the slides demonstrated liver cell plate atrophy alternating with hepatocellular regeneration (hematoxylin and eosin, and reticulin stains), and focal portal and pericellular fibrosis (trichrome stain). A minimal to mild inflammatory infiltrate composed of lymphocytes and clutters of macrophages containing brown granular refractive material was noted in the portal tracts without evidence of cirrhosis (Figure C, D). No significant bile duct injury, steatosis, granulomas, siderosis, or alpha1-antitrypsin globule was identified on histology. These findings were consistent with nodular regenerative hyperplasia, a condition of noncirrhotic intrahepatic portal hypertension (NCIPH). However, further inquisition of the same region under polarized light revealed multiple scattered, white, birefringent, irregular or needle-shaped material within some of the portal tracts (Figures E [arrow head], F [arrow head]).
On the nature of the interaction between serotonin and serotonin binding protein: effect of nucleotides, ions, and sulfhydryl reagents.

: Rat brain serotonin binding protein (SBP) was found to have essential -S-S and -SH groups. Both reduction of the disulfide bond by dithiothreitol or mercaptoethanol and modification of -SH group(s) by Ellman reagent or alkylating agents caused loss of binding capacity. In contrast, formation of a mixed disulfide bond with sodium metabisulfite did not affect the binding capacity. Serotonin in the presence of Fe2+ and phosphate was found to bind to either an -SH group or to a site in very close proximity. Addition of serotonin protected -SH groups from modification by Ellman reagent and from denaturation of protein upon storage. Lipids that enhance binding of serotonin to SBP also protected -SH groups from modification. Nucleotides were found to be strong inhibitors of the binding of serotonin to SBP. The inhibitory effect of nucleotides was due to their chelating properties and not to their ability to phosphorylate the protein or to bind directly to it. Inhibition by nucleotides and other chelators was reversible. Binding capacity was fully restored after removal of the chelator by molecular sieve chromatography and addition of Fe2+. The ionic environment had a marked effect on the binding: intracellular ions such as K+ were found to enhance the binding, and extracellular ions such as Na+ and Ca2+ inhibited the binding. Based on these data and our previous studies, we suggest that SBP is an intracellular protein that acts as a storage protein. Consistent with our data is formation of a complex of SBP-S-Fe-S that in a hydrophobic surrounding could bind up to four molecules of serotonin in coordination bond with Fe2+ and thereby reduce the osmotic pressure within a storage vesicle. Extracellular ionic conditions that favor the dissociation of the complex would free the amine to interact with its receptor or the presynaptic reuptake carrier.
Physician responses to ambiguous patient symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: To examine how primary care physicians respond to ambiguous patient symptom presentations.
"Is Power-sharing Possible?" Using Empowerment Evaluation with Parents and Nurses in a Pediatric Hospital Transplantation Setting

This article describes the evaluation of an innovative empowerment project aimed at improving nurse-family communication in a pediatric transplantation setting. Empowerment and family-centered care models were employed to reduce barriers to communication and build partnerships. The goals of the project were to facilitate empowerment, power-sharing, and joint decision-making among nurses and families. Families gained insight into biomedical culture, culminating in the creation of a handbook for navigating biomedical culture, which they site as empowering. However, major barriers exist to achieving the remaining goals. Although nurses involved with the project value the principles of joint decision-making and power-sharing abstractly, they are reluctant to incorporate them into their practice. They describe them as at odds with tasks and roles they must accomplish. Foucault’s insights on clinical power assist in understanding why this project was successful in creating partnerships in some areas, but not ac...
Fabrication of ZnS nanoparticle chains on a protein template

In the present study, we have exploited the properties of a fibrillar protein for the template synthesis of zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticle chains. The diameter of the ZnS nanoparticle chains was tuned in range of ~30 to ~165 nm by varying the process variables. The nanoparticle chains were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The effect of incubation temperature on the morphology of the nanoparticle chains was also studied.
Experimental investigation of a Hall-current accelerator

The Hall-current accelerator is being investigated for use in the 1000-2000 sec. range of specific impulse. Three models of this thruster were tested. The first two models had three permanent magnets to supply the magnetic field and the third model had six magnets to supply the field. The third model thus had approximately twice the magnetic field of the first two. The first and second models differ only in the shape of the magnetic field. All other factors remained the same for the three models except for the anode-cathode distance, which was changed to allow for the three thrusters to have the same magnetic field integral between the anode and the cathode. These Hall thrusters were tested to determine the plasma properties, the beam characteristics, and the thruster characteristics. The thruster operated in three modes: (1) main cathode only, (2) main cathode with neutralizer cathode, and (3) neutralizer cathode only. The plasma properties were measured along an axial line, 1 mm inside the cathode radius, at a distance of 0.2 to 6.2 cm from the anode. Results show that the current used to heat the cathode produced nonuniformities in the magnetic field, hence also in the plasma properties. In a Hall thruster this general design appears to provide the most thrust when operated at a magnetic field less than the maximum value studied.
Role of Fourier theory in optics education

Fourier theory has found application in many areas of science and engineering, but perhaps nowhere has it found a more natural home than in the field of optics. Why? Because optics, by its very nature, allows the utility of this incredible mathematical tool to be viewed directly; in other disciplines, its consequences can usually only be imagined or, at best, observed indirectly. Such a unique characteristic serves as a powerful educational aid for those in the process of learning about the field. The thesis that a polychromatic optical wavefield consists of a superposition of temporal-frequency components is easily demonstrated in the classroom, as is the decomposition of an arbitrary monochromatic wavefield into its plane-wave spectrum. Yet another demonstration helps explain the spatial-frequency performance of an optical imaging system. The now-popular Fourier techniques that provide a solid mathematical foundation for exploring the physics associated with these and other phenomena are discussed.
Fitness Costs for Influenza B Viruses Carrying Neuraminidase Inhibitor-Resistant Substitutions: Underscoring the Importance of E119A and H274Y

Influenza B viruses cause annual outbreaks of respiratory illness in humans and are increasingly recognized as a major cause of influenza-associated pediatric mortality. Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors (NAIs) are the only available therapy for patients infected with influenza B viruses, and the potential emergence of NAI-resistant viruses is a public health concern. The NA substitutions located within the enzyme active site could not only reduce NAI susceptibility of influenza B virus but also affect virus fitness. In this study, we investigated the effect of single NA substitutions on the fitness of influenza B/Yamanashi/166/1998 viruses (Yamagata lineage). We generated recombinant viruses containing either wild-type (WT) NA or NA with a substitution in the catalytic (R371K) or framework (E119A, D198E, D198Y, I222T, H274Y, and N294S) residues. We assessed NAI susceptibility, NA biochemical properties, NA protein expression, and virus replication in vitro and in differentiated normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells. Our results showed that four NA substitutions (D198E, I222T, H274Y, and N294S) conferred reduced inhibition by oseltamivir and three (E119A, D198Y, and R371K) conferred highly reduced inhibition by oseltamivir, zanamivir, and peramivir. All NA substitutions, except for D198Y and R371K, were genetically stable after seven passages in MDCK cells. Cell surface NA protein expression was significantly increased by H274Y and N294S substitutions. Viruses with the E119A, I222T, H274Y, or N294S substitution were not attenuated in replication efficiency in vitro or in NHBE cells. Overall, viruses with the E119A or H274Y NA substitution possess fitness comparable to NAI-susceptible virus, and the acquisition of these substitutions by influenza B viruses should be closely monitored.
The prevalence of need for assistive technology devices and home accessibility features

This article summarizes demographic information about people with disabilities and their use of assistive technology. Issues relating to the lack of a coordinated national level data collection effort about Americans with disabilities are discussed. These issues have broad implications for assistive technology systems because the lack of data on assistive technology use hampers efforts to build policies supportive of consumer-driven assistive technology services. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.
Design of an over-moded 94 GHz coupled-cavity TWT

The design and cold test of a novel over-moded folded-waveguide 94 GHz TWT is discussed with operation in the rectangular TM 31 mode. Lower order modes are suppressed with dielectric loading. With plans for fabrication, simulations show 31 dB of gain and 300 W peak output power. Cold test results for a 9-cavity structure are forthcoming.
Solar-wind tritium limit and the mixing rate of the solar atmosphere

Tritium has been measured, in Surveyor 3 samples, some of which were adjacent to those in which solar-wind-implanted He-4 had previously been measured. Little of the H-3 can be attributed to solar-wind implantation. The upper limit for the H-3/He-4 ratio in the solar wind is four times ten to the minus tenth power and corresponds to a H-3/H-1 limit of two times ten to the minus eleventh power. This limit imposes a requirement on the mixing rate in the solar atmosphere if the H-3 production rate in solar-surface nuclear reactions is greater than 160 sq cm/sec.
Eve: Islamic image of woman

Abstract Like other patriarchal traditions, Islam has been accused of a variety of injustices toward women. These are seen as both actual, in terms of the treatment of women, and theoretical insofar as women have been imagined as somehow lesser or inferior beings. The essay ‘Eve: Islamic Image of Woman’ attempts to deal with the latter of these accusations, focusing on the figure of Eve as portrayed in the Qur'ān, in Islamic tradition, and in contemporary Muslim writings. Here it is demonstrated that the way in which Eve is portrayed and understood has immediate and obvious ramifications for the Muslim view of women in general. In the Islamic case, the scriptural references to the wife of the first man show her neither as inferior or secondary to Adam in creation, nor in any way culpable in tempting him to eat of the forbidden tree. In the traditional narratives this situation is generally reversed, and both modes of creation and culpability are used to explain the nature of the female. References in modern writings represent a range of perspectives—some more Qur'ānic and some more traditional—and reflect the struggle of contemporary Islam to come to terms with the nature and role of women within the context of what is perceived as the Islamic view of humanity.
Zebrafish Foxd3 is required for development of a subset of neural crest derivatives

foxd3 encodes a winged helix/forkhead class transcription factor expressed in the premigratory neural crest cells of many vertebrates. We have investigated the function of this gene in zebrafish neural crest by a loss of function approach using antisense morpholino oligonucleotides and immunostaining for Foxd3 protein. Knockdown of Foxd3 expression produces deficits in several differentiated neural crest derivatives, including jaw cartilage, peripheral neurons, and glia, and iridophore pigment cells. Other derivatives, such as melanophore and xanthophore pigment cells are not affected. Reduction in the expression of several lineage-specific markers becomes evident soon after the onset of neural crest migration, suggesting that Foxd3 knockdown affects these lineages at early stages in their development. In contrast, analysis of the expression of early neural crest markers indicates little effect on neural crest induction or initial emigration. Finally, cell transplantation suggests that with respect to dorsal root ganglia neurons the Foxd3 requirement is cell autonomous, although Foxd3 itself is not detectable in differentiated DRG neurons. These results suggest that in zebrafish Foxd3 may not be required for induction of neural crest identity but is necessary for the differentiation of a subset of neural crest cell fates, perhaps in precursors of particular neural crest lineages.
The effect of moisture contamination on the relative permittivity of polymeric composite radar-protecting structures at X-band

Abstract The impact of absorbed moisture on the X-band relative permittivity of three composite materials used in aircraft radar-protecting structures (radomes) is investigated, quantified, and analyzed with respect to existing effective medium theories. Two glass-fiber-reinforced epoxy laminates and a quartz-fiber reinforced bismaleimide laminate are fabricated, contaminated with water, and analyzed with a split-post dielectric resonator in order to determine moisture-induced relative permittivity changes at 10 GHz. In the most significant case, a 3.7% increase in water content by weight resulted in a 43% increase in relative permittivity for BMI/quartz laminates. Such an increase may be a root cause of radome-induced radar performance loss for long-service-life aircraft. The relationship between absorbed water volume and relative permittivity is not well described by the existing effective medium theories considered. Support is given to the existence of conditions which lead to restricted molecular dipole rotation of water within a polymer network and a resulting “effective” relative permittivity of water based on polymer chemistry and morphology. A simple power-law expression predicated upon this assumption successfully describes the relative permittivity increase as a result of absorbed water prior to equilibrium moisture condition.
Advances in integrated polarization image sensors

An overview of the latest efforts in integrated polarization imaging sensors are presented. We describe two approaches for creating focal plane polarization imaging sensors. The first approach combines polymer polarization filters with CMOS active pixel sensor and computes polarization information at the focal plane. The second approach outlines our initial work on polarization filters using aluminum nano wires. Measurements from the first polarization image sensor prototype are discussed in detail and applications for material detection using polarization techniques are described.
What Are We? The Social Construction of the Human Biological Self

This essay explores how the human biological self is socially constructed, and rejects various truisms that define our character. Rather than being stand-alone entities, the human biological self forms what biologists call “superorganisms” and what I call “poly-super-organisms.” Thus, along with prokaryotes (bacteria), viruses, and other entities, we are combined in an inseparable menagerie of species that is spread across multiple bodies. Biologists claim that only males and females are organisms. As described here, however, human sperm and eggs are equally entitled to that rank. Much about human reproduction is also socially constructed. For example, contrary to scientific wisdom, humans have always reproduced both sexually and asexually. Moreover, human life (the creation of a new organism) does not begin between conception and birth, and neither event creates new life. In addition, some cancer cells are organisms; they are contagious entities formed by asexual human reproduction. Finally, while science universally describes humans as being living entities, accumulating evidence makes clear that the life concept is failing. In fact, much that originates from human bodies does not fall under current biological or cultural classifications. How we construct the human biological self has consequences for understanding our health, how we reproduce, and what we are. These social constructions greatly influence our views on abortion, stem-cell research, human cloning, and our post-human future. A more accurate construction of the human biological self will help us better navigate these contentious issues.
Equilibrium theory of polymer liquids: Linear chains

An equilibrium theory of polymer melts, developed previously by us for polymer rings, is generalized to include linear polymer chains. This theory is based on the reference interaction site model (RISM) integral equation approach developed by Chandler and co‐workers for molecular liquids. We are able to construct a tractable formalism for the high polymer problem by employing the fact that a polymer molecule in a melt is ideal. This leads to a set of coupled, nonlinear integral equations for the intermolecular radial distribution functions. A simple optimized perturbative scheme is developed for long linear chains based on the relative unimportance of end effects. To lowest order, the theory reduces to a single nonlinear integral equation. Chain end corrections to the site‐averaged intermolecular correlation functions vanish according to N−2, where N is the degree of polymerization. Numerical techniques were used to compute the radial distribution function and structure factor for hard core linear Gaussia...
The Effectiveness of Local Campaign Spending in the 1993 and 1997 Federal Elections in Canada

Recent studies of the effects of campaign spending by political parties and candidates at elections in Canada and elsewhere have established the importance of local constituency campaigns. However, particular claims to measure the effects of campaign spending on the vote have been questioned on methodological grounds. This article revisits the question of whether local spending matters in Canadian federal elections. Responding to some criticisms of earlier work, this analysis presents the results of two parallel regression analyses (the first employing two–stage least squares estimation, the second using three–stage least squares techniques) of the effects of local spending in the 1993 and 1997 elections. The results offer strong confirmation that comparatively greater local spending by candidates enhances their vote shares, and diminishes that of rivals, albeit to different degrees for different parties and elections.
Chronic suppression of μ-opioid receptor signaling in the nucleus accumbens attenuates development of diet-induced obesity in rats

To test the hypothesis that μ-opioid receptor signaling in the nucleus accumbens contributes to hedonic (over)eating and obesity. To investigate the effects of chronic μ-opioid antagonism in the nucleus accumbens core or shell on intake of a palatable diet, and the development of diet-induced obesity in rats. Chronic blockade of μ-opioid receptor signaling in the nucleus accumbens core or shell was achieved by means of repeated injections (every 4–5 days) of the irreversible receptor antagonist β-funaltrexamine (BFNA) over 3–5 weeks. The diet consisted of either a choice of high-fat chow, chocolate-flavored Ensure and regular chow (each nutritionally complete) or regular chow only. Intake of each food item, body weight and body fat mass were monitored throughout the study. The BFNA injections aimed at either the core or shell of the nucleus accumbens resulted in significantly attenuated intake of palatable diet, body weight gain and fat accretion, compared with vehicle control injections. The injection of BFNA in the core did not significantly change these parameters in chow-fed control rats. The injection of BFNA in the core and shell differentially affected intake of the two palatable food items: in the core, BFNA significantly reduced the intake of high-fat, but not of Ensure, whereas in the shell, it significantly reduced the intake of Ensure, but not of high-fat, compared with vehicle treatment. Endogenous μ-opioid receptor signaling in the nucleus accumbens core and shell is necessary for palatable diet-induced hyperphagia and obesity to fully develop in rats. Sweet and non-sweet fatty foods may be differentially processed in subcomponents of the ventral striatum.
An examination of music student teaching seminars at midwestern universities

This study was designed to (a) provide teacher educators and researchers with information about the structure and content of music student teaching seminars by gathering data on current practices and (b) examine whether the perceived needs of music student teachers were being met through the content and structure of the student teaching seminars. Music education professors (N = 45) participated in a researcher-designed survey that included questions pertaining to the student teaching internship and accompanying seminar course. Results indicated that seminar instructors addressed student teacher responsibilities and preparation, classroom management, and employment more extensively than any other areas. Professional portfolios, resume writing, and mock interviews represented the most common seminar activities. Findings suggest that with the exception of classroom management, the topics that instructors addressed most extensively in the music student teaching seminar did not align with the perceived needs o...
Rapid onset phacolysis.

Background Phacolysis involves the breakdown of a hyper-mature cataract, causing an antigenic reaction to the lens proteins released into the anterior chamber with subsequent inflammation. To date, the time it takes for a crystalline lens to reach hypermaturity and induce a phacolytic response has never been clearly detailed. It is believed that cataract maturation is a slow process. The process by which the lens proteins begin to leak is thought by many to be similarly slow. However, the immune-related inflammatory process that develops when the lens proteins begin to leak may be quite rapid. It may be an error to consider this aspect of the phacolytic process to be slow. Methods We present a case with a clear, timed delineation of the phacolytic process. A mature cataract became hyper-mature with subsequent phacolysis and inflammatory pressure rise over the course of 17 days. It appears that this is the first published account of the time involved in the development of phacolysis and, we believe, the fastest onset of the process. Conclusion While cataract maturation is generally considered to be a slow, insidious process, it should be recognized that the phacolytic process might not be slow. Once a lens reaches hypermaturity, phacolysis could occur quite rapidly over the course of several days. This case could be an important consideration in management of the removal of advanced cataracts. This case may be the shortest reported time from diagnosis of a mature cataract to the development of inflammatory phacolysis and secondary glaucoma, occurring over a period of only 17 days.
Diverse Presentation of Aberrant Origin of the Right Subclavian Artery: Two Case Reports

Aberrant origin of the right subclavian artery occurs in up to 1% of the population and can result in a wide range of symptoms. In this report, two cases of this anomaly are presented. In the first case, a patient developed fatal group A streptococcal aortitis. In the second case, the patient complained of chronic cough and intermittent dyspnea. The embryologic genesis of this abnormality is discussed and the current literature is summarized. Although relatively uncommon, it is important to consider this vascular anomaly in the differential diagnosis of patients with dysphagia, dyspnea, chest pain, fever, or mediastinal widening evidenced on chest roentgenography.
HPLC analysis of lens GSH and GSSG.

A sensitive method for the analysis of reduced and oxidized glutathione in bovine lens fractions is described. Samples which have been derivatized with iodoacetic acid and dinitrofluorobenzene have been analyzed by high pressure liquid chromatography. Quantitation of reduced and oxidized glutathione in the sample at nanomole levels has been accomplished using a commercially available Bondapak-amine column. Values for reduced glutathione of approximately 30 umoles/gm wet weight have been found for epithelium preparations while only 4 umoles/gm wet weight were found in the nucleus. Only small amounts of oxidized glutathione were observed, increasing in the inner regions of the lens.
Cost-effectiveness of biologics compared with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in rheumatoid arthritis.

Introduction: For many rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, RA leads to pain and stiffness, progressive joint destruction, functional disability, and premature mortality. The economic burden of RA is significant and includes direct costs (medical visits, medications, laboratory testing, and imaging) and indirect costs (lost productivity, early mortality, and out-ofpocket health care expenses). Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) slow the progression of joint damage and loss of function associated with RA. Newer but significantly more expensive biologic agents offer greater potential to slow disease progression and extend productivity, which raises the question of whether the improved clinical outcomes with biologics are worth their higher costs. Aims: This study identified and critically appraised existing economic evaluations of biologics versus DMARDs for adults with RA. Furthermore, it examined whether the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were within the range of generally accepted medical interventions.
Group Work with First Episode Schizophrenia Clients

ABSTRACT Group work with first episode schizophrenia clients is an effective way of improving ego functioning, building adaptive coping skills, and addressing the painful feelings associated with learning of this diagnosis. First episode schizophrenia clients are typically in their late teens to late twenties, and confront the cognitive disability, the stigma and the loss of social roles and statuses at a developmentally difficult stage of emotional growth. The dynamic processes by which cohesive groups reduce isolation, build self-esteem, and provide peer support are illustrated with case material. The group work consists of integrating psychoeducation with clients' concerns in order to provide optimal adjustment to the disease. The groups described in this article are structured within a continuing care team treatment model in a medical facility, but the group work discussed may be utilized in a variety of settings.
Free vibration of complex cable/mass systems: theory and experiment

Abstract A theoretical model is presented that describes the non-linear, three-dimensional response of a suspended cable supporting an array of discrete masses. The equations of motion for the cable/mass suspension are linearized about a generally sagged and supported equilibrium state and the eigensolutions governing free response are determined. A hybrid analytical/numerical method is developed that permits the efficient evaluation of low and higher order eigensolutions for arbitrarily complex and sagged cable/mass suspensions. The method utilizes a numerical implementation of a transfer matrix solution to an asymptotic form of the equations of motion. Experimental modal tests, performed on laboratory cables, provide corroborating measurements of system natural frequencies. This investigation contributes an important extension to previous investigations of cable/mass suspensions which are limited by mode order, array complexity or suspension sag.
Marketing strategy: An assessment of the state of the field and outlook

This article provides an assessment of the state of the field of marketing strategy research and the outlook. Using institutional theory, the authors develop an organizing framework to serve as a road map for assessing research in marketing strategy. Their assessment of the state of the field based on a review of extant literature suggests that significant strides in conceptual development and empirical research have been achieved in a number of areas. Several recent developments in the business world, including deconglomeration and increased organizational focus on managing and leveraging market-based assets such as brand equity and customer equity, suggest that marketing is likely to play a more important role in charting the strategic direction of the firm. However, the theoretical contributions of the field to the academic dialogue on strategy leave much to be desired.
Cooperative conservation efforts to help recover an endangered south Florida butterfly.

. 1 The Miami blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri) (Lycaenidae) is a small, brightly coloured butterfly endemic to Florida. 2 It was once locally common across much of the south Florida mainland south through the Florida Keys to the Dry Tortugas. 3 Over the last few decades, ever-expanding urbanisation and the associated loss of coastal habitat have lead to a significant reduction in the taxon's overall geographical distribution and numerical abundance. 4 The butterfly is currently limited to two small extant populations in the Lower Florida Keys, making it one of the most imperilled insects in North American and warranting a state of Florida listing as endangered. 5 As part of a large-scale, model cooperative recovery programme led by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the University of Florida, the National Park Service, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, efforts are underway to conserve the butterfly through captive propagation, organism re-introduction to state and federal lands, and research on the biology, population ecology, genetic diversity, and non-target impact of mosquito control adulticides.
Thermodynamics and Kinetics of the Li/FeF3 Reaction by Electrochemical Analysis

FeF3 is a promising cathode material for lithium batteries with a very high energy density due to its complete reduction to a mixture of LiF and Fe. The material is not yet practical due to a greater than 1 V hysteresis during charge and discharge. Previous work has suggested that this hysteresis might be intrinsic due to different reaction pathways. We employ galvanostatic intermittent titration (GITT), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to study the reaction thermodynamics and kinetics. GITT experiments, when the electrode is allowed to rest for 72 h following a discharge or charge step, show that the hysteresis is 280 mV, in contrast to >1 V observed previously with slow rate charge and discharge experiments. CV results obtained in different potential ranges indicate that the apparent hysteresis is mostly due to the large overpotential needed to overcome the energy barrier for the nucleation of the LiF/Fe composite phases. EIS results are consistent with the forma...
Magnetostriction, Forced Magnetostriction, and Anomalous Thermal Expansion in Ferromagnets

In previous papers we have formulated the theory of magnetostriction arising from single-ion crystal-field effects, for cubic crystals, and we have shown that the theory accounts extremely well for the temperature dependence of the magnetostriction in yttrium iron garnet. We here summarize that theory, extend it to arbitrary crystal symmetry, augment it by the inclusion of two-ion interactions, analyze the dependence on magnetic field strength (the "forced magnetostriction"), and discuss the totally symmetric component (which exhibits itself as an anomalous thermal expansion). The first part of this paper is concerned with the above matters, and the analysis is based entirely on symmetry considerations. It culminates in expressions relating the macroscopic magnetostriction coefficients to the product of microscopic magnetoelastic coupling constants and certain spin correlation functions. Only three such correlation functions appear, and all temperature and field dependence enters through these correlation functions. In the second part of the paper, we evaluate these correlation functions by various approximate theories: molecular field theory, a cluster theory, and the random-phase approximation. Applications to Dy and to EuS are cited, and a detailed application to Gd is given. In Gd the sign inversion of a particular magnetostriction coefficient, and its full temperature dependence, are accurately accounted for theoretically. The field dependence of the forced magnetostriction of Gd is also discussed, with special reference to the observed persistence of a pseudo-linearity slightly above the Curie temperature.