cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New guidance for ex situ gene conservation: Sampling realistic population systems and accounting for collection attrition

Abstract A vital component of conservation is to sample germplasm from wild populations for safeguarding ex situ (e.g., in seed banks, though the concept also applies to animals via cryopreservation or zoos). For decades, conservationists have commonly heeded a logically sound, but perhaps suboptimal, minimum sampling guideline- to sample from 50 individuals per population. Here, I demonstrate how sampling can be improved based on two considerations that are neglected in this common, simple guideline, and have not previously been tested. First, I consider a fundamental aspect of population biology- sharing of genetic material among populations through migration. Second, I consider a fundamental aspect of ex situ collections maintenance- loss of plants through germination failure, disease, and active use (e.g., research, seed exchanges). I first simulate metapopulations with a wide range of migration rates, population sizes, numbers of populations and demographic (i.e., bottleneck) histories. Then I determine minimum sampling to preserve a sufficient number of allele copies to account for various degrees of collection attrition. My results show that sampling seed from approximately 200 to 300 individuals in total across a species' geographic range may suffice for a wide range of plant population systems, if all seeds germinate and produce plants that survive in perpetuity. However, to compensate for expected losses over time, sampling should be increased by a factor closely related to the expected loss rate, meaning that a robust minimum collection for ex situ gene conservation will often be 1000 individuals or more. More work is needed to establish final guidelines, but I do provide a summary table for practitioners. I conclude that seed collections planning must consider the plant's biology, collection maintenance, and desired characteristics of the collection such as the number of allele copies and the type of allele targeted. These results emphasize a need for thoughtful deliberation and decisions by the curator and collector, and renewed discussion of conservation targets for ex situ collections to remain viable over hundreds to thousands of years.
Development and characterization of embryogenic suspension cultures of pecan

A method for the establishment and proliferation of developmentally stable, embryogenic suspension cultures in pecan is described, and the growth and development of cultures characterized. Suspension cultures were generated from somatic embryos derived from zygotic embryo cotyledon explants induced on a solidified medium with naphthaleneacetic acid. Cultures were repetitively embryogenic and proliferated in growth-regulator-free medium. The suspensions consisted of a mixture of globular stage embryo-aggregates, freely suspended globular embryos and pre-globular stage embryo masses. Culture growth and proembryo production were evaluated with respect to several liquid media and pH conditions. Significant differences in growth and productivity were observed between cultures. Pre-globular stage embryo masses collected on filter paper and overlaid on solidified medium continued ontological development and converted into plants. Thus a method has been developed for pecan suspension culture, which presents a major improvement in embryogenic tissue culture within the Juglandaceae.
Function-Driven Single-Cell Genomics Uncovers Cellulose-Degrading Bacteria from the Rare Biosphere

Assigning a functional role to a microorganism has historically relied on cultivation of isolates or detection of environmental genome-based biomarkers using a posteriori knowledge of function. However, the emerging field of function-driven single-cell genomics aims to expand this paradigm by identifying and capturing individual microbes based on their in situ functions or traits. To identify and characterize yet uncultivated microbial taxa involved in cellulose degradation, we developed and benchmarked a function-driven single-cell screen, which we applied to a microbial community inhabiting the Great Boiling Spring (GBS) Geothermal Field, northwest Nevada. Our approach involved recruiting microbes to fluorescently labeled cellulose particles, and then isolating single microbe-bound particles via fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The microbial community profiles prior to sorting were determined via bulk sample 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The flow-sorted cellulose-bound microbes were subjected to whole genome amplification and shotgun sequencing, followed by phylogenetic placement. Next, putative cellulase genes were identified, expressed and tested for activity against derivatives of cellulose and xylose. Alongside typical cellulose degraders, including members of the Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Chloroflexi, we found divergent cellulases encoded in the genome of a recently described candidate phylum from the rare biosphere, Goldbacteria, and validated their cellulase activity. As this genome represents a species-level organism with novel and phylogenetically distinct cellulolytic activity, we propose the name Candidatus 'Cellulosimonas argentiregionis'. We expect that this function-driven single-cell approach can be extended to a broad range of substrates, linking microbial taxonomy directly to in situ function.
Long-term cropping systems management influences soil strength and nutrient cycling

Abstract Elucidating complex interactions of cover crops and crop residues on soil physicochemical properties is critical to sustaining soil productivity long-term. Our objective was to compare soil strength and chemistry (physiochemical), cover crop residue composition, and soil compaction following 15-years of cropping system implementation under non-tillage. Main effects were cropping sequences of soybean (Glycine max L.), corn (Zea mays L.), and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), grown on a Loring silt loam, and sequences of corn and soybean on a Maury silt loam. Split-block treatments consisted of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativum L. sativum var. arvense) and hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) cover crops, as well as poultry litter, and a fallow control. Soil physicochemical characteristics were evaluated at surface (0–15 cm) and sub-surface (15–30 cm) depths. Overall, soil physicochemical parameters were more affected by long-term cover crops and poultry litter in surface layers, whereas crop rotations impacted soil chemistry at sub-surface layers. High-nitrogen (N) containing cover crops had more desirable composition for soil biota (less recalcitrant), whereas corn had the highest soil carbon (C), N, and C:N ratio, likely owing to the greatest amount of residue being produced under this cropping sequence. Whole profile (0–1.2 m) assessment of soil compaction indicates: continuous cotton > continuous soybean > corn-soybean > continuous corn > corn-cotton, likely owing to greater planting and spraying traffic throughout the cotton production cycle. Study results help identify cropping system management effects on soil physicochemical properties under no-tillage and such data are needed for quantifying soil quality per soil conservation management.
Senioritis From the Student’s Perspective

The Research to Practice Full Paper presented here describes senioritis from the student’s perspective. Senioritis is a known ailment that affects the best of students, often rendering them unproductive, depressed, and despondent. Nearly all have experienced this affliction to one extent or another, sometimes as it relates to academia and other times as it relates to particular situations or experiences in which one is involved.The instructor and grader of a required course, most often taken by senior students towards the end of their studies, noticed serious issues in students possibly experiencing this ailment and wondered what the group of students were reacting to. When asked, the students were vague, and not particularly engaged in providing an answer. The instructor asked if the students would be willing to provide a quick write up explaining what they were experiencing, and how they were reacting to it. The answer was affirmative, with the students expressing an interest in learning what other students were experiencing as well. Most students indicated that they felt they were the only one having motivation issues, as students, in general, do not talk about it. Although they did indicate some of their close friends had similar issues. The student’s experiences were formulated via an in-class reflective assignment, where students were asked to keep the response to one page or less and asked the following question below:“Tell me how senioritis affected you this semester. How did you approach things difrerently and how did you feel about school in general?”The results from this were not surprising, but significant in the reasons they cited for their issues. Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to think about what was going on and this compelled them to work through some of the issues they encountered. The instructor and grader found that after this activity some of the students were able to work more effectively and responded more positively as their time in the classroom was coming to a close. This paper will present the results of this informal, in-class study examined using content analysis techniques intended to probe the reflective assignment responses for themes and issues students encounter at this time in their academic career. This work intends to impart information to faculty and graduate staff that will provide a clear up-to-date understanding of what students are experiencing in the classroom
Effectiveness and Implications of Seismic Retrofit Measures for Deck Unseating of Multiframe Bridges with Regular and Irregular Geometry

AbstractDeck unseating at abutments and in-span hinges can be a major cause of collapse, especially for older multiframe bridges that are not in compliance with the latest code provisions for seat ...
Custom mastoid-fitting templates to improve cochlear implant electrode insertion trajectory.

Insertion trajectory affects final intracochlear cochlear implant (CI) positioning, but limited information is available intraoperatively regarding ideal trajectory. We sought to improve intracochlear positioning CI electrodes using custom templates to specify insertion trajectory. 3D reconstructions were created from computed tomography of three cadaveric temporal bones. Trajectories co-planar with the straight segment of the cochlea’s basal turn were considered ideal. Templates were designed to fit against the drilled mastoid’s surface and convey this guided trajectory via a hollow cylinder. Templates were 3D-printed using stereolithography. Mastoidectomy was performed. Template accuracy was tested by measuring target registration error (TRE) for four templates. A novel, roller-based insertion tool (designed to fit within the template cylinder) constrained insertions to intended trajectories. Insertions were performed with MED-EL Standard electrodes in three bones with three conditions: guided trajectory with insertion tool, non-guided trajectory with insertion tool and guided trajectory with surgical forceps. For the final condition, the template was used to mark the mastoid to convey trajectory. Insertion was stopped when electrode buckling occurred. TRE ranged from 0.23 to 0.73 mm. Mean TRE ± standard deviation was 0.55 ± 0.19 mm. Insertions along guided versus non-guided trajectories averaged more intracochlear electrodes (9, 8, 8 vs. 7, 7, 8) and greater angular insertion depths (AID) (377°, 341°, 320° vs. 278°, 302°, 290°). Insertions performed with forceps using templates as a guide also achieved excellent results (intracochlear electrodes: 10, 7, 8; AID: 478°, 318°, 333°). No translocations occurred. Custom mastoid-fitting templates reliably specify intended insertion trajectory and provide sufficient information for recreation of that trajectory with manual insertion after template removal. The templates can accurately target structures within the temporal bone with a TRE of 0.55 ± 0.19 mm. Our roller-based insertion tool achieves results comparable to manual insertion using surgical forceps.
Ubiquitin-Specific-Processing Protease 47, A Novel 53BP1 regulator

DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are repair by homology-based repair or non-homologous end joining and multiple sub-pathways exist. 53BP1 is a key DNA double strand break repair protein that regulates repair pathway choice. It is key for joining DSBs during immunoglobulin heavy chain class switch recombination. Here we identify USP47 as a deubiquitylase that associates with and regulates 53BP1 function. USP47 loss results in 53BP1 instability in proteasome dependent manner, and defective 53BP1 ionizing radiation induced foci (IRIF). USP47 catalytic activity is required for maintaining 53BP1 protein level. Similar to 53BP1, USP47 depletion results in sensitivity to DNA DSB inducing agents and defective immunoglobulin CSR. Our findings establish a function for USP47 in DNA DSB repair at least partially through 53BP1.
Different Levels of Physical Activity, Physical Health, Happiness, and Depression among Older Adults with Diabetes.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between different levels of physical activity (light, moderate, and vigorous), physical health, happiness, and depression among older a...
Natural and forced soil aeration during agricultural managed aquifer recharge

Author(s): Ganot, Y; Dahlke, HE | Abstract: One of the suggested approaches to mitigate the chronic groundwater depletion in California is agricultural managed aquifer recharge (Ag-MAR), in which farmland is flooded using excess surface water in order to recharge the underlying aquifer. Successful implementation of Ag-MAR projects requires careful estimation of the soil aeration status, as prolonged saturated conditions in the rhizosphere can damage crops due to O2 deficiency. We studied the soil aeration status under almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] trees and cover crops during Ag-MAR at three sites differing in drainage properties. Water application included several cycles (2–7) and flooding durations (27–63nh) that varied according to the soil infiltration capacity at each site. We used O2 and redox potential as soil aeration quantifiers to test the impact of forced aeration by air-injection compared with natural soil aeration. Results suggest an average increase of up to 2% O2 at one site, whereas mixed impact was observed at the two other sites. Additionally, no impact on crop yield was observed for one growing season. Results further suggest that natural aeration can support crop O2 demand during Ag-MAR if flooding duration is controlled according to O2 depletion rates. In large Ag-MAR projects, forced aeration might be useful to improve local zones of O2 deficiency, which are expected to occur due to topographic irregularities and spatial variability of drainage properties.
Specialty Grand Challenge for Brain Disease Mechanisms

[...]there is a major unmet need to identify treatment options, which are disease modifying and thereby affect fundamental mechanisms implicated in pathogenic processes leading to disease and its progression. Specifically, core metabolites, such as adenosine are uniquely linked to energy homeostasis (ATP), used as building blocks of biomolecules (RNA, including poly-A tails of mRNAs), coupled to transmethylation reactions (DNA and histone methylation), and act as receptor ligands (adenosine receptors) (Boison, 2013;Boison and Yegutkin, 2019). [...]adenosine is a unique network regulator linking metabolism and gene expression with neuromodulation. [...]adenosine augmentation therapies, e.g., through engineered stem cells (Fedele et al., 2004;Li et al., 2009), are uniquely suited to restore network homeostasis, and to not only suppress comorbid symptoms but also to exert lasting disease modifying therapeutic effects (Li et al., 2008;Boison, 2012;Shen et al., 2012;Williams-Karnesky et al., 2013). Because epigenetic mechanisms regulate gene expression, there is an urgent need to invest in the field of epigenomics which is one of the remaining frontiers in neuroscience.
How Have Automation and Trade Affected the Taxable Share of Covered Earnings

Over the past few decades, U.S. income inequality has grown, with high earners experiencing disproportionate growth. This pattern has increased the top earners’ share of national income and reduced the share of earnings taxable by Social Security from 87.1 percent to 82.7 percent since 1994, weakening the program’s fiscal situation. Yet the drivers of earnings inequality, and thus the taxable share, are poorly understood. This paper combines data from several sources with administrative earnings records from the Social Security Administration to estimate the contribution of two factors to the declining taxable share between 1994 and 2015: industrial automation and trade with China. The effect of each factor on different sections of the earnings distribution is estimated through a series of instrumental variables quantile regressions. The resulting coefficients are used to construct a counterfactual 2015 earnings distribution, assuming the factors had remained constant at their 1994 levels.
Attitudes, Experiences, and Interest in Geriatrics of First‐Year Allopathic and Osteopathic Medical Students

A cross-sectional survey was designed to assess interest in geriatric medicine of allopathic and osteopathic medical students and to determine whether their career interests were related to past experiences with and current attitudes toward older adults. The study was conducted at an allopathic and osteopathic medical school with 231 first-year medical students. Experiences with elderly people were measured using survey questions assessing amount and quality of experiences with grandparents, as well as experiences caring for, volunteering with, or having a paid position working with older adults. Attitudes were measured using the University of California at Los Angeles Geriatric Attitudes Scale, revised for applicability to medical students. Interest in geriatrics was measured using a 4-point scale. Overall, students expressed positive attitudes toward older adults. Past experiences, including positive relationships with older relatives (P<.001) and experiences providing care for older adults (P<.001), were related to more-positive attitude scores toward elderly people. Students had low interest in geriatric medicine, but those with more-positive attitudes were more likely to consider geriatrics as a career (odds ratio=8.18, P<.001). Furthermore, having prior experience caring for older persons increased interest in the field (P=.001). No significant differences were found between allopathic and osteopathic student interest in geriatrics or attitudes toward older adults. Efforts toward increasing the pool of future geriatricians and increasing positive attitudes toward older patients could be improved by providing quality experiences caring for and interacting with older adults before medical school training.
Methyl-CpG-binding domain 2: a protective role in bladder carcinoma.

BACKGROUND MBD2, a methyl-CpG-binding domain 2 protein, has attracted much attention because of its role in epigenetic regulation of gene expression. In addition to transcriptional repression, MBD2 has also been shown to catalyze demethylation by directly removing methyl groups from 5-methylcytosine residues in DNA. Although the demethylase activity of MBD2 remains controversial, reduction of MBD2 messenger RNA expression has been observed in various tumor tissue types. In the current case–control study, the authors investigated the association between MBD2 expression and bladder carcinoma risk. METHODS RNA was isolated from the peripheral blood lymphocytes of 98 bladder carcinoma case patients and 135 frequency-matched control patients. MBD2 expression was measured by real-time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction assays. RESULTS Overall, there was a significantly reduced risk associated with high levels of MBD2 expression (odds ratio [OR], 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21–0.90). This relation was maintained when the data were categorized according to quartile distribution for MBD2 expression (P for trend < 0.05). It is noteworthy that the protective effects were more apparent in women (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.06–1.02) compared with men (OR, 0.58; 95%; CI, 0.24–1.42), in older individuals (OR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.03–0.45) compared with younger individuals (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.40–3.33), and in heavier smokers (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.18–0.93) compared with lighter smokers (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.18–2.86). CONCLUSIONS Although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear, the data obtained in the current study represent the first evidence demonstrating a protective role against bladder carcinoma risk for MBD2. MBD2 expression may prevent age-related, gender-related, and smoking-induced hypermethylation, which are predisposing factors for tumor development. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Automatic generation of conformance tests from message sequence charts

Over the past five years our group has developed a tool that automatically generates conformance test scripts from a combination of Message Sequence Charts (MSCs), specifying dynamic behaviour, and Protocol Data Units (PDUs), specifying data formats. This paper outlines how tests are derived from MSCs and PDU specifications, and summarises different test strategies. It describes the testing required to prove conformance of various MSC language features ranging from time constraints to MSC variables, in-line expressions and high-level MSCs. We cover test generation for both single process test scripting and concurrent test scripting, where a test is distributed across autonomous processes, co-ordinating through additional messaging. All of the above aspects have been implemented in our tool that is in widespread use across Motorola. Tool support has not only resulted in cycle-time benefits for test preparation, but quality improvement in the testing process, improved test coverage, and validation of requirements specification.
Monetary Policy Interactions Between the U.S. and the EMU

This paper examines the monetary policy relationship between the United States and the European Monetary Union (EMU) using a large open economy model that incorporates the interactions between policy makers in the two "countries". The paper builds on and extends previous research, by Ball, Svensson, McCallum and Nelson and Rotemberg & Woodford, among others, that focused on the performance of simple policy rules in closed economies or in small open economies. Parameters of the model are matched to data taken from the U.S. and from the EMU's 11 member countries. These parameters are then used to calculate the optimal reaction coefficients of closed and open econmy monetary policy rules under both a cooperative and a non cooperative setting. The results of the paper show that, under most policy rules, the EMU has worse macroeconomic performance. Despite the overall worse performance, the results show that the EMU can gain from using policy rules that include external variables, as well as through policy cooperation. The model also confirms that the fundamental sources of the worse performance lie in the higher inflation persistence, the greater volatility of shocks and the greater openness of the EMU economies. Since all three of these sources are likely to witness substantial change following the adoption of the single currency and the creation of the European Central Bank, the results point to a more symmetric monetary policy relationship between the U.S. and the EMU in the future.
Forgot your password: Correlation dilution

We consider the problem of diluting common randomness from correlated observations by separated agents. This problem creates a new framework to study statistical privacy, in which a legitimate party, Alice, has access to a random variable X, whereas an attacker, Bob, has access to a random variable Y dependent on X drawn from a joint distribution p X,Y . Alice's goal is to produce a non-trivial function of her available information that is uncorrelated with (has small correlation with) any function that Bob can produce based on his available information. This problem naturally admits a minimax formulation where Alice plays first and Bob follows her. We define dilution coefficient as the smallest value of correlation achieved by the best strategy available to Alice, and characterize it in terms of the minimum principal inertia components of the joint probability distribution p X,Y . We then explicitly find the optimal function that Alice must choose to achieve this limit. We also establish a connection between differential privacy and dilution coefficient and show that if Y is ϵ-differentially private from X, then dilution coefficient can be upper bounded in terms of ϵ. Finally, we extend to the setting where Alice and Bob have access to i.i.d. copies of (X i , Y i ), i = 1, …, n and show that the dilution coefficient vanishes exponentially with n. In other words, Alice can achieve better privacy as the number of her observations grows.
Why a polysomnogram should become part of the diagnostic evaluation of stroke and transient ischemic attack.

Summary: Neurologists need to recognize, diagnose, and treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Increasing medical evidence suggests that OSA is an independent risk factor for stroke and TIA. Stroke (or TIA) is more likely a cause, rather than a consequence, of OSA because PSG studies have shown: 1) apneas in stroke are typically obstructive, not central or Cheyne-Stokes in type; 2) apneas are just as frequent and severe in patients with either TIA or stroke; 3) OSA severity is not influenced by the acuteness or location of the stroke; 4) untreated OSA patients have more strokes, stroke morbidity, and mortality than those who are treated. OSA alone can induce hypertension, especially in younger men. A causal relationship has recently been demonstrated between OSA and hypertension. A distinctive feature of OSA-induced hypertension is loss of the normal nighttime fall in blood pressure (“nondippers”). Data from the Sleep Heart Health Study showed a dose-response association between OSA severity and the presence of hypertension 4 years later. Hypertension or ischemic heart disease usually develops in untreated patients with OSA over time without particular worsening of OSA. Studies have shown sleep itself is not a risk factor for stroke because most stroke and TIAs begin between 6 AM and noon, while the individual is awake. However, OSA promptly be considered in stroke beginning during sleep because 88% of strokes that develop during sleep occur in “nondippers.” Premature death in OSA patients is most often cardiovascular, but occurs while the patients are awake. The risk of myocardial infarction is increased 20-fold in untreated OSA. Treating OSA patients with continuous positive airway pressure can prevent or improve hypertension, reduce abnormal elevations of inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules, reduce excessive sympathetic tone, avoid increased vascular oxidative stress, reverse coagulation abnormalities, and reduce leptin levels. If all this can be achieved by a polysomnogram, then this test should become part of a neurologist’s armamentarium for stroke and TIA.
Derivation of a new stiffness matrix for helically armoured cables considering tension and torsion

A new element stiffness matrix is derived for straight cable elements subjected to tension and torsion. The cross-section of a cable, which may consist of many different structural components, is treated in the following as a single composite element. The derivation is quite general; consequently, the results can be used for a broad category of cable configurations. Individual helical armourning wires, for instance, may have unique geometric and material properties. In addition, no limit is placed on the number of wire layers. Furthermore, compressibility of the central core element can also be considered. The equations of equilibrium are first derived to include ‘internal’ geometric non-linearties produced by large deformations (axial elongation and rotatioin) of a straight cable element. These equations are then linearized in a consistent manner to give a liner stiffness matrix. Linear elasticity is assumed throughout. Excellent agreement with experimental results for two different cables validates the correctness of the analysis.
Strength models and serial position in short-term recognition memory ☆

Abstract A number of continuous strength models for memory are developed for and tested by an experimental study of recognition memory for three-digit numbers at all serial positions in lists of length two through seven. Empirical estimates of trace strength in different conditions, independent of response bias, are obtained by means of the operating characteristic. The principal theoretical findings are: (a) strength in short-term memory (STM) appears to decay exponentially with the number of subsequent items; (b) subjects report that they recognize an item if and only if strength in memory exceeds a criterion; (c) the first item of a list is remembered better than subsequent items because it receives a greater increment in strength in STM upon presentation, not because it decays more slowly in STM or because it acquires some strength in a long-term memory.
Instrumentation for the observation of circular dichroism in IR vibrational transitions

Dispersive instruments for the observation of infrared circular dichroism were designed and constructed. Equations governing infrared CD are summarized, and the principles and details of the measurement of this effect are discussed. Results obtained from aqueous solutions of biological molecules are presented, and the conformational sensitivity of the technique is demonstrated.
Factors affecting the production of sporophylls in the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera (L.) C.Ag.

Abstract The effects of variation in vegetative biomass, stand density, and stand location on sporophyll production in the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera (L.) C.Ag. were examined in a multifactorial experiment off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. Results indicate that vegetative biomass greatly influences zoospore production in this kelp, since the removal of 75% of vegetative fronds led to a drastic decrease in sporophyll production. Sporophyll biomass was shown to be closely correlated to zoospore production (r = 0.995). Plants growing offshore produced significantly less sporophyll biomass per plant than those inshore. Site differences in sporophyll production may have been caused by differential shading resulting from the persistence of the surface canopy offshore and the senescence of it inshore. As a possible result, increased plant density significantly decreased sporophyll biomass offshore and had no effect inshore. The timing of events such as storms which remove vegetative biomass could affect the local population dynamics of this kelp by decreasing zoospore production.
Using a Logic Model to Evaluate Undergraduate Instruction in a Laboratory Preschool.

Research Findings: Utilization-focused, process evaluations of university-based laboratory preschools in their role with teacher preparation programs are rare in the current literature. This paper describes a self-study evaluation designed and implemented at a university laboratory preschool. A theory approach logic model was developed and used to illustrate the connections between educational theories and the undergraduate instructional activities designed to facilitate learning. Undergraduate students and laboratory school instructors were surveyed and interviewed about five instructional strategies and their impact on achievement of undergraduate lab course goals. The emphasis in this paper is placed on the lab course goal of applying theoretical concepts to classroom situations. The results and process of the evaluation itself were informative to instructors in clarifying and improving their practices. Undergraduate instructional activities were modified, and the instructors continued to systematicall...
The Impacts of California’s San Francisco Bay Area Gap on Precipitation Observed in the Sierra Nevada during HMT and CalWater

AbstractAtmospheric rivers (ARs) are narrow regions of enhanced water vapor transport, usually found on the warm-sector side of the polar cold front in many midlatitude storms formed primarily over the oceans. Nonbrightband (NBB) rain is a shallow orographic rainfall process driven by collision and coalescence that has been observed in some of these storms. NBB rain accounts for about one-third, on average, of the total winter season rainfall occurring at a coastal mountain site in Northern California. During the California Energy Commission’s CalWater project, nearly the same fraction of NBB rain was observed at a northern Sierra Nevada foothills site as compared to the coastal mountains, whereas less than half of the fractional amount of NBB rain was observed at a southern Sierra Nevada foothills site. Both Sierra Nevada sites often experience terrain-induced blocked flow, that is, Sierra barrier jet (SBJ) during landfalling winter storms. However, the northern Sierra Nevada site often is oriented geogr...
Early Estimation of NFRs for Embedded System Using Design Metrics

In this paper, an approach is proposed to assist the designer in evaluating the impact of a design choice with respect to the Non-Functional Requirements (NFRs) in embedded systems. We use design metrics extracted from class diagrams and regression models to estimate, in the early development stages, the impact of software changes on NFRs. This prediction can be used during the first design to compare alternative design changes before implementation. Such an early estimation allows an efficient design space exploration with no penalty in the development time, which are crucial aspects for an embedded system.
Electrochemical studies of an oxidatively induced ring slippage in 17-electron (η3-indenyl)(η5-indenyl)V(CO)2

Abstract Oxidation of (η 5 -arene) 2 V (arene = indenyl, C 5 H 5 , C 5 Me 5 ) with [(C 5 H 5 ) 2 Fe][PF 6 ] under a carbon monoxide atmosphere provides a convenient route to [(η 5 -arene) 2 V(CO) 2 ] + complexes. The cyclic voltammogram of the indenyl compound shows two reversible one-electron reduction waves. Reduction of 18-electron [(η 5 -indenyl) 2 V(CO) 2 ][PF 6 ] leads directly to the 17-electron (η 3 -indenyl)(η 5 -indenyl)V-(CO) 2 . A lower limit for the η 3 -to-η 5 ring slip rate constant is estimated to be 10/sec at −32°C. Reductions of the cationic C 5 H 5 and C 5 Me 5 analogues were irreversible and showed no evidence for ring slipped intermediates.
Accounting for culture in a globalized bioethics.

As we look to the future in a world with porous borders and boundaries transgressed by technologies, an inevitable question is:Can there be a single, global bioethics? Intimately intertwined with this question is a second one: How might a global bioethics account for profound - and constantly transforming - sources of cultural difference? Can a uniform, global bioethics be relevant cross-culturally? These are not simple questions, rather, a multi-dimensional answer is required. It is important to distinguish between two meanings of bioethics: the academic discipline of bioethics as opposed to bioethics as a set of (increasingly globalized) practices governing clinical care and scientific research. There is growing evidence to support the notion of a shared global understanding of bioethics as a field of inquiry focused on the moral dimensions of science and biomedicine.
Prevalence of anxiety in adults with diabetes: a systematic review.

Background: Anxiety is associated with decreased functioning and quality of life. It may have added importance in diabetes for its potential adverse effects on regimen adherence and glycemic control. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of clinically significant anxiety in adults with diabetes. Research Design and Methods: MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases and published reference lists were searched to identify studies that determined the prevalence of anxiety in diabetes from threshold scores on self-report measures or from diagnostic interviews. Prevalence was calculated as an aggregate mean weighted by the combined number of subjects in the included studies. Results: Eighteen studies having a combined population (N) of 4076 (2584 diabetic subjects, 1492 controls) satisfied the inclusion criteria. Most did not adjust for the effects of moderator variables such as gender, and only one was community-based. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) was present in 14% of patients with diabetes. The subsyndromal presentation of anxiety disorder not otherwise specified and of elevated anxiety symptoms were found in 27% and 40%, respectively, of patients with diabetes. The prevalence of elevated symptoms was significantly higher in women compared to men (55.3% vs. 32.9%, P<.0001) and similar in patients with Type 1 vs. Type 2 diabetes (41.3% vs. 42.2%, P=.80). Conclusion: GAD is present in 14% and elevated symptoms of anxiety in 40% of patients with diabetes who participate in clinical studies. Additional epidemiological studies are needed to determine the prevalence of anxiety in the broader population of persons with diabetes.
Mobile robot kinematic reconfigurability for rough terrain

Future planetary exploration missions will use rovers to perform tasks in rough terrain. Working in such conditions, a rover could become trapped due to loss of wheel traction, or even tip over. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory has developed a new rover with the ability to reconfigure its structure to improve tipover stability and ground traction. This paper presents a method to control this reconfigurability to enhance system tipover stability. A stability metric is defined and optimized online using a quasi-static model. Simulation and experimental results for the Sample Return Rover (SSR) are presented. The method is shown to be practical and yields significantly improved stability in rough terrain.
THE INFLUENCE OF CARPENTER ANT ( CAMPONOTUS MODOC ) (HYMENOPTERA: FORMICIDAE) ATTENDANCE ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND SURVIVAL OF APHIDS ( CINARA SPP.) (HOMOPTERA: APHIDIDAE) IN A GIANT SEQUOIA FOREST

Camponotus modoc was associated with numerous species of Homoptera in Giant Forest, Sequoia — Kings Canyon National Park, California. Ant-exclusion experiments and field observations indicated that survival of the abundant Cinara occidentalis Davidson on white fir depends on attendance by C. modoc . More of the predators, Neomysia oblonguttata (Mulsant), Deraeocoris brevis Uhler, Passaloecus cuspidatus F. Smith, Pityophyphantes sp., were found on ant-unattended than on attended aphid colonies. As aphid populations decreased, ant attendance per aphid and number of predators/aphid increased. Attended aphid colonies were more likely to survive to produce oviparae and a lower proportion of alates.
Assessment of bone biopsy needles for sample size, specimen quality and ease of use.

To assess whether there are significant differences in ease of use and quality of samples among several bone biopsy needles currently available. Eight commonly used, commercially available bone biopsy needles of different gauges were evaluated. Each needle was used to obtain five consecutive samples from a lamb lumbar pedicle. Subjective assessment of ease of needle use, ease of sample removal from the needle and sample quality, before and after fixation, was graded on a 5-point scale. The number of attempts necessary to reach a 1 cm depth was recorded. Each biopsy specimen was measured in the gross state and after fixation. The RADI Bonopty 15 g and Kendall Monoject J-type 11 g needles were rated the easiest to use, while the Parallax Core-Assure 11 g and the Bard Ostycut 16 g were rated the most difficult. Parallax Core-Assure and Kendall Monoject needles had the highest quality specimen in the gross state; Cook Elson/Ackerman 14 g and Bard Ostycut 16 g needles yielded the lowest. The MD Tech without Trap-Lok 11 g needle had the highest quality core after fixation, while the Bard Ostycut 16 g had the lowest. There was a significant difference in pre-fixation sample length between needles (P<0.0001), despite acquiring all cores to a standard 1 cm depth. Core length and width decrease in size by an average of 28% and 42% after fixation. Bone biopsy needles vary significantly in performance. Detailed knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of different needles is important to make an appropriate selection for each individual’s practice.
Interaction of hypothalamic structures in the mediation of male sexual behavior.

Abstract A series of studies was conducted in which the influences of medial forebrain bundle (MFB) and medial preoptic area (MPOA) lesions on the copulatory behavior of the male rat were investigated. Previous findings that bilateral electropytic lesions in parafornical MFB or the MPOA abolish sexual behavior were confirmed. Further, it was found that MFB lesions as far anterior as the MPOA, but not rostral to this area, were also effective in abolishing male sexual behavior. Asymmetrical hypothalamic lesions were also employed in an attempt to ascertain the degree of interaction between the MPOA and the MFB in the mediation of male sexual behavior. Unilateral lesions in the MFB combined with contralateral destruction of the MPOA were also found to effectively suppress mating. These findings were interpreted as supporting suggestions that portions of the MFB function as a caudally directed pathway from the MPOA in the mediation of sexual behavior. Attempts to reverse the effects on sexual behavior of MFB lesions by the administration of dl -5-hydroxytryptophan were not successful. On the contrary, this chemical was found to be inhibitory to male sexual behavior.
Energetic stability and electronic properties of exohedral derivatives of C20: C20Xn (X = H, F, Cl; n = 1–4)

Exohedral derivatives of the smallest fullerene, C20, with the general formula of C20Xn (X = H, F, Cl; n = 1–4) have been systematically investigated to evaluate the energetic stability of these molecular structures and determine their respective electronic properties. Analysis of the theoretical results indicate that the addition of exohedral atoms increase the stability of the caged-structure to varying degrees according to the predicted HOMO-LUMO gaps, ionization energies, and electron affinities. Further support for increasing stability is deduced from the calculated reaction and binding energies of the exohedral atoms. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interactive effects of interpellet interval and pellet composition on schedule-induced licking and drinking behavior

Three groups of rats received different formulae of Noyes 45-mg dry food pellets (sugarless, 7.5% sucrose, 7.5% glucose) on fixed time reinforcement schedules with interpellet intervals of 30, 60, and 90 sec. For all groups, as interpellet interval increased, water consumed and licks per session increased to a maximum and then decreased. Licks per pellet increased across sessions. There was a significant interaction between pellet formula and interpellet interval. The type of sugar contained in the food pellet affected the number of licks and the number of mls consumed.
Orientations to juvenile justice: Exploratory notes from a statewide survey of juvenile justice decisionmakers

Abstract This study examined the extent to which orientations to juvenile justice held by decisionmakers are related to their functional roles and educational backgrounds. Predictions concerning this question were drawn from both the literature on complex organizations and writings by scholars interpreting and forecasting the future of juvenile justice. The findings indicate that assignment to specific roles in the juvenile justice system is a significant predictor of commitment to either a rehabilitative or a just deserts model of juvenile justice. This effect appears to be modified to some extent by educational backgrounds and professional identifications. The implications of these findings for a continuation of the traditional rehabilitative ideal in juvenile justice are discussed.
A threat to the nation and a threat to the men: the banning of Depo‐Provera in Zimbabwe, 1981

In this paper, I discuss the prohibition of the injectible contraceptive Depo‐Provera in Zimbabwe in 1981 by analysing the confluence of events which led both to its popularity amongst Zimbabwean women and to the suspicion in which it was held by many Zimbabwean men. I argue that the prohibition of Depo‐Provera must be seen both as an act of nationalist self‐assertion by the newly victorious majority government under ZANU (PF) and also as a significant moment in the gendered politics of reproduction in Zimbabwe. During the era of the white minority government in the 1960s and 1970s, Depo‐Provera was constructed by Africans as a form of medical colonisation of African women's bodies and, because of its centrality to the white regime's population control strategies, as a weapon for cutting down the African nation by preventing future generations of Zimbabweans from being born. At the same time, Depo‐Provera was associated with ‘subversive’ conduct by women, as Depo enabled these women, with the assistance o...
Not yet the post‐imperialist era

The early formulation in the late 1960s of the cultural domination thesis occurred in a specific historical era. Although that period is over, this by no means indicates that cultural domination no longer exists. The difference today is that national (largely American) media‐cultural power has been largely (though not fully) subordinated to transnational corporate authority. A total cultural package—film, TV, music, sports, theme parks, shopping malls, etc.—is delivered worldwide by a small number of multi‐billion‐dollar media combines. To the extent that communication research ignores or glosses these developments, it loses its explanatory power.
N-Dimethylnitrosamine in Tobacco Smoke Condensate

THE possible presence of N-nitrosamines in cigarette smoke and/or condensate has been of interest for some years. Druckrey and Preussmann1 postulated that N-nitrosamines could be produced in burning tobacco, but the difficulty of measuring these compounds prevented the testing of this postulate. We have developed2 a gas chromatographic method for the selective detection of N-nitrosamines, and now report its application to the analysis of cigarette smoke condensate. We have identified N-dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) in cigarette smoke condensate, and shown that certain tobaccos grown in different conditions vary widely in their content of DMN.