cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increasing Precision in Survey Experiments Without Introducing Bias

The use of survey experiments has surged in political science as a method for estimating causal effects. By far, the most common design is the between-subjects design in which the outcome is only measured posttreatment. This design relies heavily on recruiting a large number of subjects to achieve adequate statistical power. Alternative designs that involve repeated measurement of the dependent variable promise greater precision, but are rarely used out of fears that these designs will bias treatment effects (e.g., due to consistency pressures). Across six studies, we assess this conventional wisdom by testing experimental designs against each other. Our results demonstrate that repeated measures designs substantially increase precision, while introducing little to no bias. These designs also offer new insights into the nature of treatment effects. We conclude by encouraging researchers to adopt repeated measures designs and providing guidelines for when and how to use them.
A new delay differential equation model for COVID-19

In this work we give a delay differential equation, the retarded logistic equation, as a mathematical model for the global transmission of COVID-19 This model accounts for asymptomatic carriers, pre-symptomatic or latent transmission as well as contact tracing and quarantine of suspected cases We find that the equation admits varied classes of solutions including self-burnout, progression to herd immunity and multiple states in between We use the term “partial herd immunity” to refer to these states, where the disease ends at an infection fraction which is not negligible but is significantly lower than the conventional herd immunity threshold We believe that the spread of COVID-19 in every localized area can be explained by one of our solution classes © 2020, Copyright held by the author(s)
Three's Company: Observations of a Nonnative Map Turtle (Graptemys pseudogeographica) Occurring Syntopically with Two Endemic Graptemys in the Pearl River, Mississippi

Humans commonly move turtles and tortoises across geopolitical and geographic boundaries through food markets and the pet trade. One group commonly encountered in the pet trade is the genus Graptemys (map turtles and sawbacks). In the late 1980s, Graptemys pseudogeographica (false map turtle) was documented outside of its native range in the Pearl River near Jackson, Mississippi. Through replicated visual surveys in 2017 and 2018, we found that G. pseudogeographica persists in this location, but their densities were low (0.22/river km; 0.5% of all observations) compared with the 2 native Graptemys species. We evaluated the historical avenues for introduction via natural or human-mediated routes. Based on topographic profiles and historical hydrologic records, we strongly refute a prior hypothesis that G. pseudogeographica naturally colonized the Pearl from a neighboring drainage during the Easter Flood of 1979. Rather, we suggest that introduction via the release of unwanted pets is a more parsimonious conclusion. Because the lineage is shallowly diverged on an evolutionary scale, it seems possible that hybridization could occur between introduced G. pseudogeographica and Graptemys oculifera. Consequently, genetic introgression of the nonnative G. pseudogeographica genome is a possible threat to G. oculifera, a federally threatened species. This is a conservation concern to be further evaluated.
Over the Counter and Home Remedies

Pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly affect a woman’s life in a negative way. Concerns about leakage of urine, lack of lubrication, lack of sexual desire, painful sex and a pelvic organ prolapse can make daily life difficult and wanting to be intimate with their partner low priority.
Anxiety treatment preferences among veteran primary care patients: Demographic, mental health, and treatment-related correlates.

INTRODUCTION Anxiety symptoms are common, yet undertreated, among primary care patients. Accommodating patient treatment preferences improves engagement and retention. In contrast to depression, little is known about primary care patients' preferences for anxiety treatment. METHOD Participants were 144 veterans experiencing anxiety symptoms but not receiving psychotherapy who were recruited from primary care. Preferences for 11 anxiety treatment attributes (method; location; type; format; provider; frequency, length, and number of appointments; psychotherapy orientation; symptom focus; and topic/skill) and demographic, mental health (e.g., anxiety symptom severity), and treatment-related (e.g., psychotherapy history) variables were assessed via mailed survey. We used chi-square goodness of fit tests to identify patient preferences for each attribute and multivariate multinomial logistic regression models to explore demographic, mental health, and treatment-related correlates of treatment preferences. RESULTS Patient preferences were largely consistent with integrated primary care models, particularly Primary Care Behavioral Health, with a few exceptions. Patients preferred longer appointments (e.g., 45-60 minutes) and a longer duration of treatment (e.g., ≥13 appointments) than is typically offered in primary care. Several variables, particularly education level, perceived need for help, anxiety symptom severity, and attitudes toward psychotherapy, were repeatedly associated with preferences for various anxiety treatment attributes. DISCUSSION Results from this study suggest that patients tend to have distinct preferences for anxiety treatment in primary care that are largely consistent with common integrated primary care models. Results also identify several variables that may be associated with specific preferences, which may help match patients to their preferred type of care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
The Intellectual Property Hostage in Trade Retaliation

Intellectual property law has become bound up in a debate about appropriate remedies for violations of the World Trade Organization Agreement. As an alternative to traditional countermeasures that consist of retaliation under the violated agreement, the World Trade Organization (“WTO”) contemplates that violations of one of its covered agreements may be remedied through “cross-retaliation,” or retaliation under another agreement. One form of cross-retaliation has garnered interest in recent years: the threat to suspend intellectual property rights in response to unrelated trade violations.Cross-retaliation through intellectual property rights suspension is theoretically appealing for its potential to avoid problems inherent in traditional retaliatory countermeasures — often tariff increases. Cross-retaliation appears attractive because its strength as a remedy is theoretically dependent on the value of the intellectual property rights at stake, rather than the political or economic strength of the complaining country. Proponents suggest it will solve power differential problems at the WTO while encouraging compliance. Missing from the conversation about cross-retaliation are (1) an assessment of its effectiveness in cases where it has been approved, and (2) an advocate for what I call the “IP hostage” of trade retaliation — that is, an account of the potential costs that may accompany threats to intellectual property rights. This account is useful in explaining why cross-retaliation has not been as effective as its proponents have suggested it would be. This Article fills the gap in the literature by providing case studies of the instances in which the WTO Dispute Settlement Body has approved intellectual property rights suspension as a means of trade retaliation. Based on these case studies, this Article argues that cross-retaliation may be a useful tool in some, limited circumstances, but generally suffers from many of the same problems as traditional retaliatory measures, particularly as they relate to developing countries with smaller economies. Moreover, this Article argues that the unique characteristics of intellectual property rights make it particularly difficult to carry out a threat of cross-retaliation through intellectual property rights suspension. Taking intellectual property rights hostage will not solve problems inherent in the remedial scheme for trade violations.
Managing Chronic Pain in Primary Care

Because pain is one of the primary reasons for an individual to visit their primary care provider, a great deal of work has been done to assess the efficacy of integrating pain management into primary care settings. This is especially true since musculoskeletal pain is the second leading symptom prompting all primary care visits. The most common medical setting a clinical psychologist is likely to work with chronic pain patients is within primary care settings, which will be the focus of this chapter. However, many of the topics discussed in this chapter are applicable to any medical setting dealing with chronic pain patients. This chapter’s recommendations are particularly well suited to a medical home model of primary care (covered in Chap. 14).
A Conceptual Framework for Examining Color Preference, Importance and Categorization in a Multiattribute Context among Blacks

This paper develops a conceptual framework that investigates the salience of color in the presence of price, brand name and quality, using two distinct products, and examines the subsequent differences in purchase behaviors and color preferences between black males and females. A conjoint analysis revealed significant differences in the perceived relative importance among the four attributes, differences were evident for general and product specific color preferences and relationships among past/ intended purchase behaviors were established. Implications for future research on an "antecedent color choice model" are introduced.
Topological Peeling and Implementation

We present a new approach, called topological peeling, and its implementation for traversing a portion AR of the arrangement formed by n lines within a convex region R on the plane. Topological peeling visits the cells of AR in a fashion of propagating a "wave" of a special shape (called a double-wriggle curve) starting at a single source point. This special traversal fashion enables us to solve several problems (e.g., computing shortest paths) on planar arrangements to which previously best known arrangement traversal techniques such as topological sweep and topological walkm ay not be directly applicable. Our topological peeling algorithm takes O(K + n log(n + r)) time and O(n + r) space, where K is the number of cells in AR and r is the number of boundary vertices of R. Comparing with topological walk, topological peeling uses a simpler and more efficient way to sweep different types of lines, and relies heavily on exploring small local structures, rather than a much larger global structure. Experiments show that, on average, topological peeling outperforms topological walkb y 10 - 15% in execution time.
A biologically-inspired basis of e-business software: from cellular level to ecological level

From the notion that a particular e-business software running on the Internet is considered as a living species, we investigate the anatomical, metabolic, physiological, genetic and ecological basis of e-business software. We suggest that there is an automated e-business software continuum, from bit and cellular level to ecological level, which is parallel to the natural bio-ecology from particles to ecosystems and beyond. This parallelism between bio-ecology and e-commerce/e-business gives rise to interesting research venues from which we might gain insights from bio-ecological information technology for potential applicability to the normal e-business/ecommerce, its continuity and crisis.
A Brief History of the Bhagavad Gita's Modern Canonization

Believed to have been written well over 2000 years ago, the Gita's original social, cultural, and religious or philosophical context is far removed from the context of the present, and it is written in a language no longer used in daily speech. In its original form, it was not even a complete, independent text, it was a small part of the Mahabharata epic and only one of many texts expounding vedantic ideas. Yet, the Gita enjoys currency, new translations are released by major publishers every year. The Gita is believed to be the most translated text after the Bible today. This essay investigates the process by which the Gita has achieved its canonical status and thinks about why the Gita—and no other Hindu text—is today regarded the representative text of Hinduism. For this purpose, the essay surveys recent history over the last 200 years since Wilkins' translation into English and the process of interpretation, translation, and dissemination by which the Gita was adapted to contexts and made instrumental to ideologies. Comparing the Gita to other Hindu texts provides clues for the suitability of the Gita, time and time again, to such adaption.
RANJIT SINGH, THE SHAWL, AND THE KAUKAB-I IQBĀL-I PUNJĀB

Although Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule has been well studied by scholars none up to this point have turned their attention to the cultural capital produced by his court and what this meant in regard to Ranjit Singh’s association with the British and how this configured the colonial relationship. This article challenges basic assumptions about the cordial nature of Ranjit’s kingdom, claimed to be particularly genial towards the British after the Treaty of Lahore in 1809, by focussing in part upon the image of himself that Ranjit wished to portray to the outside world, an image not only of his personal self but also of the products produced by his court in particular the Sikh Kashmiri shawls of the Lahore Darbar and the medal of valour, the Kaukab-i Iqbāl-i Punjāb.
Descolonizando las historias biopolíticas con amílcar cabral

Resumen es: En este articulo propongo que algunas historias biopoliticas contemporaneas heredan filosofias de historia problematicas, cuyas fronteras recapitulan man...
Behaviour of microtubules and actin filaments in living Drosophila embryos

We describe the preparation of novel fluorescent derivatives of rabbit muscle actin and bovine tubulin, and the use of these derivatives to study the behaviour of actin filaments and microtubules in living Drosophila embryos, in which the nuclei divide at intervals of 8 to 21 min. The fluorescently labelled proteins appear to function normally in vitro and in vivo, and they allow continuous observation of the cytoskeleton in living embryos without perturbing development. By coinjecting labelled actin and tubulin into the early syncytial embryo, the spatial relationships between the distinct filament networks that they form can be followed second by second. The dynamic rearrangements of actin filaments and microtubules observed confirms and extends results obtained from previous studies, in which fixation techniques and specific staining were used to visualize the cytoskeleton in the Drosophila embryo. However, no tested fixation method produces an exact representation of the in vivo microtubule distribution.
Financial Ratios and Stock Returns on China’s Growth Enterprise Market

China’s capital markets are not yet fully integrated into the world equity markets. Given the market segmentation, I investigate the relationships between financial ratios and short-term stock returns on China’s recently established Growth Enterprise Market (GEM). Based on regression results, among dozens of financial variables tested, the year-to-year revenue growth is found to be the most significant variable predicting a stock’s short-term performance in every sub-sample period. In contrast, neither the conventional measure price-to-book nor the newly proposed measure of gross profitability is significant. In addition, market capitalization does not behave in the familiar way found in developed markets. The evidence indicates that factors beyond the traditional size, value, or quality have strong explanatory power in short-term asset pricing behavior on the GEM.
Normative perceptions of non-medical stimulant use: Associations with actual use and hazardous drinking

Abstract Approximately 10% of US college students are engaged in non-medical use of prescription stimulants (NMUPS) and that use is linked to concerning health, educational, and societal consequences. Few studies have assessed normative perceptions surrounding NMUPS. Accordingly, we examined self-reported use and normative perceptions for NMUPS and demographic factors that may be associated with them. We also investigated whether higher normative perceptions for NMUPS were related to the most commonly used and abused substance among college students (alcohol). Method: 1106 undergraduates participated in an online survey of normative perceptions of NMUPS and students' own drinking and stimulant use habits. Results: Students overestimated NMUPS by other students and those normative estimates were associated with higher NMUPS. Living in a fraternity or sorority was related to higher NMUPS and perceived norms. Finally, higher normative perceptions of NMUPS were associated with higher hazardous drinking. Conclusion: The large discrepancy between actual use (generally low) and students' perceptions (generally high), and the relationship of these perceptions to both one's own use of NMUPS and alcohol suggests that interventions aimed at correcting norms may be useful.
Analysis of the calcium-dependent regulation of proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 by gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Calcium influx through L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) is required for ERK activation induced by GnRH in pituitary gonadotropes. The current studies investigate VGCC-sensitive catalytic activities that may lie upstream of ERKs within the GnRH signaling network. Ion exchange fractionation of αT3-1 cell lysates subjected to anti-phosphotyrosine Western blot analysis revealed a nifedipine-sensitive activity that colocalized with proline-rich tyrosine kinase (Pyk) 2 immunoreactivity. Phosphorylated Pyk2 was present in αT3-1 cells after GnRH agonist administration for a time course that lasted up to 4 h. Pyk2 phosphorylation was also evident in gonadotropes in vivo after administration of a bolus of GnRH. Knockdown of Pyk2 using specific small interfering RNAs revealed that Pyk2 contributed to modulation of GnRH-induced ERK but not c-Jun N-terminal kinase activation. Using pharmacological approaches, calmodulin (Cam) was also demonstrated to be required for the phosphorylation of Pyk2. Pyk2 was shown to bind specifically to a Cam agarose affinity column in a calcium-dependent manner, suggesting Cam and Pyk2 are capable of forming a complex. Specific mutation of a putative Cam binding motif within the catalytic domain of Pyk2 blocked association with Cam and uncoupled Pyk2’s ability to activate ERK-dependent gene transcription. Thus, GnRH induces Pyk2 tyrosine phosphorylation dependent upon calcium flux within gonadotropes. Furthermore, association of Pyk2 and Cam may be required to mediate the effects of calcium on Pyk2 phosphorylation and subsequent activation of ERKs by GnRH.
Quantum films adsorbed on graphite: Third and fourth helium layers

Using a path-integral Monte Carlo method for simulating superfluid quantum films, we investigate helium layers adsorbed on a substrate consisting of graphite plus two solid helium layers. Our results for the promotion densities and the dependence of the superfluid density on coverage are in agreement with experiment. We can also explain certain features of the measured heat capacity as a function of temperature and coverage.
Septal efferents in the cat.

Abstract Four selected cases were studied following placement of 1–2 mm lesions in the septum of the cat. Degeneration of nerve fibers and terminals was observed in the olfactory peduncle, olfactory tubercle, gyrus rectus and overlying gyrus cinguli. Projections to posterior cortex occurred over the fornix longus and body of the fornix to the gyrus cinguli, subiculum and hippocampal gyrus. Other projections occurred downstream via three pathways. A dorsal route was traced over the stria medullaris to thalamic nuclei and midbrain. A central pathway coursed through the internal medullary lamina and zona incerta into the prerubral field. Ventrally, degeneration traveled over the diagonal band, medial forebrain bundle and ventral tegmental tract into the midbrain. The over-all degeneration preferential was to the anterior thalamic nuclei, lateral reticular nucleus of the thalamus and hippocampus. Differential projections evidenced by terminals occurred in the septum, anterior and other thalamic nuclei, hypothalamus and midbrain reticular nuclei. Degeneration was noted differentially within the columns of the fornix, diagonal band and medial forebrain bundle. These differential topographic projections of the septum are proposed as a possible structural basis for diverse effects reported in the literature concerning septum studies. The septum is considered as part of an accessory thalamus functioning within a larger system referred to as a “dynamic scale”. It is also implied that this functional concept could be true of other cerebral structures.
Radiative corrections in highly ionized atoms

A review of the theory of radiative corrections in highly ionized atoms is given. Comparison of theory and experiment in these atoms provides an important test of the theory of strongly bound electrons. For one-electron atoms, energy level separations predicted by quantum electrodynamics among the n = 1 and n = 2 states of hydrogen-like atoms with nuclear charge Z in the range 10–40 have recently been tabulated on the basis of a complete nonperturbative calculation of the self energy. In highly ionized atoms with more than one electron, the hydrogenic radiative level shifts provide a first approximation to the few-electron radiative level shifts. Uncalculated corrections due to multielectron effects in the radiative corrections give the largest known uncertainty in the theory of two-electron atoms. Various approaches to this problem and the prospects for further improvements are described.
Measurement by two-dimensional pulse analysis of the time and energy distributions of afterpulses in proportional counters

Abstract Measurements of afterpulses occuring in proportional counters were carried out by a method based on two-dimensional pulse analysis for time and energy distributions. An aluminium single-wire proportional counter of 2.06 cm radius, fitted with field tubes, was used with a filling of one atmosphere of 87% argon- 13% propane gas. With radioactive 37Ar contained in the counter gas, the energy distribution and time delays of the afterpulses initiated by K-capture events (2.82 keV, Auger electrons or K X-rays) were measured. With ultra-high purity argon counter gas (containing less than 10 ppm total impurities), the occurrence of afterpulses was of the order of 1 per 103 K-events. With normal purity argon, the rate of afterpulses per K-event was approximately doubled. The energy distribution of the afterpulses was studied in the region 0 to 100 eV for gas gains well within the region of proportionality and exhibited the form of a single-electron spectrum. The time delays were studied up to 64 msec. The time distribution of the afterpulses shows a maximum in the region of 120 to 160 μsec and a vanishing contribution for time delays longer than 400 μsec for our counter under the chosen experimental conditions. The maximum in the time distribution may be attributed primarily to a positive ion effect. The versatility of the method for a systematic and general study of afterpulses in various types of detectors is pointed out.
Optimal vehicle scheduling & layout for automated material handling systems (AMHS)

This paper describes a scheduling of Automatic Material Handling System(AMHS) for improving productivity and reducing delivery time. In the paper, we simulate various scenarios and then analyze them for finding the optimal solution. In order to find the optimal solution, we use scenarios of vehicle scheduling and various layouts for AMHS in intra-bay. The paper shows the simulation to improve overall performance on AMHS by reducing the delivery time and raising productivity.
Time and temperature effects on the mechanical properties of glass-filled amide-based thermoplastics

Abstract Time-dependent mechanical design properties of four commercial thermoplastic resin systems were investigated at temperatures of 23, 100, and 150°C. The test materials were glass-filled polyamides and polyphthalamides. Experiments were performed to characterize creep, creep-rupture and tensile behaviors after isothermal aging. Creep-rupture data were used to create master curves using a Sherby–Dorn analysis. Although each material possessed a different property advantage, a polyphthalamide with 33% glass reinforcement exhibited a good combination of creep resistance, strength and ductility. The reported results provide information that is critical for the design and development of structural thermoplastic components.
The role of an NAD-independent lactate dehydrogenase and acetate in the utilization of lactate by Clostridium acetobutylicum strain P262

Clostridium acetobutylicum strain P262 utilized lactate at a rapid rate [600 nmol min−1 (mg protein)−1], but lactate could not serve as the sole energy source. When acetate was provided as a co-substrate, the growth rate was 0.05h−1. Butyrate, carbon dioxide and hydrogen were the end products of lactate and acetate utilization, and the stoichiometry was 1 lactate + 0.4 acetate →0.7 butyrate + 0.6H2 + 1CO2. Lactate-grown cells had twofold lower hydrogenase than glucose-grown cells, and the lactate-grown cells used acetate as an alternative electron acceptor. The cells had a poor affinity for lactate (Ks=1.1 mM), and there was no evidence for active transport. Lactate utilization was catabolyzed by an inducible NAD-independent lactate dehydrogenase (iLDH) that had a pH optimum of 7.5. The iLDH was fivefold more active withd-lactate thanl-lactate, and theK m ford-lactate was 3.2 mM. Lactate-grown cells had little butyraldehyde dehydrogenase activity, and this defect did not allow the conversion of lactate to butanol.
Teflon felt embolism of coronary arteries after cardiac surgery: A case report

A case is presented of fatal coronary embolism of Teflon felt used to buttress sutures in the placement of a Bjork-Shiley aortic valve prosthesis. The embolism occurred on the tenth postoperative day, lodging in the left anterior descending branch of the left coronary artery 5.5 cm. from the ostium, causing a large anterior myocardial infarct. The patient died in less than 24 hours following the infarct. A review of the literature indicates that this is the first reported case of clinically significant embolism of Teflon felt used in the placement of a Bjork-Shiley aortic valve.
Salmonella spp. in free-ranging and farmed alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) from Texas and Louisiana U.S.A.

Abstract A survey of 71 free-ranging and 29 farmed alligators ( Alligator mississippiensis ) for Salmonella was conducted in southeast Texas and south Louisiana (USA) from September 1992 to September 1995. Salmonella spp. were isolated more commonly in indoor farmed animals (20%) than wild animals (2.8%). There was no difference in prevalence between wild adult (> 1.83 m) and wild subadult alligators (
The importance of maintaining wish lists

Purpose – The article's aim is to illustrate why a library might compile a list of desired purchases.Design/methodology/approach – This is an opinion piece.Findings – In these tight budget times, having a current wish list is vital; if an unexpected windfall appears, a library should have priorities in order.Research limitations/implications – Areas of further study might include how or if libraries collaborate with academic departments to compile priority wish lists, and using sales representatives as library marketing to academic departments.Practical implications – Determining a way to keep priority purchasing lists visible is important.Originality/value – The article offers some ideas for a librarian compiling a wish list of resources.
The local behavior of the derivative of a cubic spline interpolator

Abstract : The derivative of a cubic spline interpolator is sometimes used to smooth a histogram. An asymptotically precise estimate of the difference between the derivative of the cubic spline interpolator and the derivative of the function interpolator is obtained under the assumption of equal interval size, appropriate boundary data and sufficient smoothness. (Author)
A probable 1970 hard X-ray outburst by 4U0041+32

Balloon observations of a hard X-ray burst in 1970 most likely associated with the highly variable high-latitude X-ray source 4U 0041+32 are reported. The observation of X-ray flux at a density of about 0.06 photons/sq cm per sec from a previously unknown source at r.a. O h 45 min, dec 33 + or - 3 deg was made by a scintillation telescope on February 4, 1970. The spectrum was found to be very hard between 25 and 300 keV, with radiation in the form of a well-collimated beam causing the excess counting rate over a period of 30 min. Further observations on September 25, 1970 indicated the object had faded to an intensity below 0.01 photons/sq cm per sec. The power law spectrum obtained during the February burst is observed to differ from those of other hard transients and hard compact binary X-ray sources by the fact that it extends to 300 keV, its apparent lack of pulsation and its not being associated with an early-type giant or supergiant companion.
Controls on the distribution and accumulation of terrigenous organic matter in sediments from the Mississippi and Atchafalaya river margin

Sediment samples from 14 box cores across the Mississippi and Atchafalaya River Margin were examined in order to quantify the magnitude and composition of the OM depositional flux in sediments from a river-dominated margin and identify the fate of terrigenous OM in the study area. Elemental, isotopic, mineral surface area, and terrigenous biomarker analyses suggest that physical sorting of particles across this river-dominated margin controls the chemical composition of sedimentary OM. Sediment accumulation rates in the area ranged from 0.012 to 0.68 cm/year and showed an inverse logarithmic relationship with water depth. Highest organic carbon (OC) content (1.3-1.5%) was observed on the inner shelf ( 200 m water depth), with lower OC (0.8%) measured on the outer shelf (10-200 m water depth). Mineral surface area (SA) showed a similar spatial distribution as OC, with the highest values on the inner shelf (average 41 m 2 /g) and slope (average 54 m 2 /g), and low SA values (average 23 m 2 /g) on the outer shelf. Association of OM with minerals and its apparent differential transport across the study area results in the greatest proportion of OM accumulating on the inner shelf (37%), although the slope also plays a significant role in OM accumulation (33%) due to its greater areal extent. Stable organic carbon isotope (δ 13 C OC ) values ranged between -23%o and -21%o across the study area, with a slight seaward enrichment. The spatial trend in lignin yields mirrored that of δ 13 C, with a substantial decrease in lignin content from 1.8 mg/100 mg OC at inner shelf locations to 0.31 mg/100 mg OC at slope locations. The OC in all sediment samples exhibited more depleted radiocarbon compositions (Δ 14 C OC ) than modem values (>0‰), ranging from ca. -200‰ on the inner shelf to ca. -400‰ on the slope. These isotopic and biomarker data indicate that terrigenous OM in the Gulf of Mexico is heterogeneous, composed of at least two sources: lignin-rich, isotopically depleted plant debris and lignin-poor, isotopically enriched soil-derived OM. The plant debris, which is deposited close to shore, composes a small portion of inner shelf sediments. Soil-derived OM is deposited throughout the study area, although it appears to be preferentially transported to deeper regions. The fate of terrigenous OM in the northern Gulf of Mexico appears to be governed by the hydrodynamic sorting of riverine particles of different compositional character rather than by simple dilution with marine OM.
Localization of aquaporin-5 in sweat glands and functional analysis using knockout mice.

Sweat secretion involves the transport of salt and water into the lumen of the secretory coil of the sweat gland. By analogy to salivary and submucosal glands, where fluid secretion is aquaporin-5 (AQP5) dependent, we postulated that aquaporin water channels might facilitate sweat secretion. Immunolocalization with specific antibodies revealed strong expression of AQP5 at the luminal membrane of secretory epithelial cells in sweat glands in mouse paw skin. Novel quantitative methods were developed to compare sweat secretion in wild-type mice and mice lacking AQP5. Total hindpaw sweat secretion was measured by proton nuclear magnetic resonance of sweat-derived 1H2O in 2H2O solvent, and sweat secretion from individual glands was measured by real-time video imaging of sweat droplet formation under oil. Sweat secretion rates after pilocarpine stimulation did not differ in wild-type mice (0.21 ± 0.03 nl min−1 gland−1) vs. mice lacking AQP5 (0.19 ± 0.04 nl min−1 gland−1). The lack of effect of AQP5 on sweat secretion rate was confirmed by microcapillary collections of sweat from defined regions of mouse paws. Also, as by direct counting of droplets, the number of functional sweat glands was not affected by AQP5 deletion. Sweat gland morphology was similar in wild-type and AQP5 null mice. From sweat coil geometry and gland secretion rate, the rate of fluid secretion was estimated to be 130 nl min−1 cm−2 of secretory epithelium, substantially lower than that of > 500 nl min−1 cm−2 in kidney proximal tubules and salivary glands, where active fluid absorption or secretion is aquaporin dependent. These results indicate the expression of AQP5 in sweat gland secretory epithelium, but provide direct evidence against its physiological involvement in sweat fluid secretion in mice.
Inhibition of potential food poisoning microorganisms by sorbic acid in cooked, uncured, vacuum packaged turkey products

Summary Vacuum packaged, oven-roasted turkey breasts and sliced turkey breast luncheon meat were prepared with and without potassium sorbate or sorbic acid. Control and treated products were inoculated with one of the following organisms: Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, or enteropathogenic Escherichia coli. The samples were vacuum packed and stored at 15°C for 10 days. The addition of 0.25% sorbate to the breasts and 0.12% sorbic acid in the slices provided excellent protection against the growth of Salmonella, E. coli, and S. aureus in uncured, cooked, vacuum packaged turkey.
Band-gap luminescence in strain-symmetrized Sim/Gen superlattices grown by molecular beam epitaxy using gaseous Si2H6 and solid Ge

Abstract Short period strained Si/Ge superlattices were grown by mixed source MBE (molecular beam epitaxy) for photoluminescence spectroscopy measurement. We studied the temperature dependence of the photoluminescence spectra. We also studied the effect of RTA (rapid thermal annealing) and deuterium-passivation on the luminescence spectra. In an 8 × 2 Si / Ge superlattice with 60 periods, we observed a strong peak at energy 0.84 eV and a weaker peak at 0.78 eV. We attribute those two peaks to the transition of the exciton localized in the superlattice (the no-phonon peak) and its transverse optical (TO) phonon replica. Those two peaks persisted to a temperature above 140 K, while in samples grown by conventional solid source MBE, the luminescence peaks disappear around 50 K [1]. This is because of the better optical quality of the samples grown by gas source molecular beam epitaxy (GSMBE).
The influence of host deprivation and egg expenditure on the rate of dispersal of a parasitoid following field release

Abstract With a view of improving the establishment of Mastrus ridibundus , a potential candidate for the biological control of the codling moth in California, a series of studies were undertaken to investigate the effect of a pre-release treatment with or without hosts on different performance characteristics. The post-release dispersal of M. ridibundus females was investigated in this study, using mark-release-recapture experiments with immunological markers. The results suggest that, in general, M. ridibundus is high dispersive. In the absence of any host stimuli for at least 4 days before release, females showed a strong dispersal response with an average dispersal rate of 81.50 m 2 /h. In contrast, females continuously provided with hosts before release or deprived of hosts for only a short period of time (1–2 days), showed a lower rate of dispersal averaging 2.07 m 2 /h. These results suggest that to enhance local establishment in a fragmented environment parasitoids should be given access to hosts prior to release. In contrast, for regional establishment in a less fragmented environment, host deprivation could be used to encourage broader dispersal if large numbers can be released at each release site to counteract the dilution effect of dispersal.
Oxytocin facilitates fidelity in well-established marmoset pairs by reducing sociosexual behavior toward opposite-sex strangers

Behavioral strategies that facilitate the maintenance of social bonds are critical for the preservation of high-quality social relationships. Central oxytocin (OT) activity modulates the behavioral features of socially monogamous relationships in a number of mammalian species (including marmoset monkeys), and plays a vital role in the behavioral maintenance of long-term social relationships. Two distinct variants of OT have been identified in some New World primates (including marmosets; Lee et al., 2011). The marmoset variant of the oxytocin ligand (Pro(8)-OT) is structurally distinct from the consensus mammalian variant of the oxytocin ligand (Leu(8)-OT), due to a proline substitution at the 8th amino-acid position. The goal of the present study was to determine if treating marmosets with Pro(8)-OT, relative to treatments with Leu(8)-OT, control saline, or an OT antagonist, had modulatory effects on the behavioral maintenance of long-term social relationships in marmosets. Treatment with the Pro(8) variant, but not the Leu(8) variant, of OT facilitated fidelity with a long-term partner by reducing time spent in close proximity with an opposite-sex stranger. However, this facilitative effect of Pro(8)-OT on proximity behavior manifested itself differently in male and female marmosets, such that females preferred to interact socially with their partner rather than a stranger when treated with Pro(8)-OT, while males spent less time in close proximity with both their partner and a stranger when treated with Pro(8)-OT. Furthermore, treatment with Pro(8)-OT, but not Leu(8)-OT, significantly delayed the expression of sexual solicitation behavior toward an opposite-sex stranger in both male and female marmosets, but had no effect on sociosexual behavior directed toward a long-term partner. These results suggest that the OT system is highly involved in reducing fidelity-threatening behaviors in well-established marmoset pairs, and that the effects were only produced by species-specific OT ligands.
An Analytical Model for Cyclic Chip Formation in 2-D Machining with Chip Breaking

Abstract This paper presents a new analytical model for 2-D machining involving a cyclic chip formation process due to chip breaking. This model includes a chip/work contact force at the free-end of the curled chip which contributes to the development of a bending moment in the chip. Chip breaking occurs when the bending moment and the corresponding chip strain reach maximum. The model provides a predictive capability for forces acting on the chip, bending moment, chip thickness, chip velocity, tool-chip contact length, shear angle, friction angle, etc. for a given set of input conditions such as the work material, cutting conditions, tool rake angle and chip-work friction conditions. Oxley's machining theory was used for predicting the work material shear flow stress at the shear plane. The present work provides a deeper insight into the chip breaking process in machining.
Mutations prolong life in flies; implications for aging in mammals.

Abstract Recent studies have demonstrated a significant increase in the longevity in fruit flies Drosophila melanogaster that have mutations in the insulin–insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathway. Disruption of insulin-like receptor or loss of insulin receptor substrate protein leads to prolonged adult lifespan. In conjunction with the findings in yeast, worms and mice, these results provide new, important evidence that at least some of the mechanisms of genetic control of longevity might have been conserved from yeast to mammals and that insulin–IGF signaling is causally linked to aging across taxa.
Blunt scissors stromal dissection technique for deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty.

Objective: We describe a modified technique for performing lamellar dissection in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty after failure to achieve a “big bubble” detachment of Descemet’s membrane (DM) with deep intrastromal pneumatic injection. Methods: The technique utilizes blunt lamellar dissection with blunt-tipped corneal mini scissors as an alternative to a crescent blade, which can be difficult for surgeons to master and is associated with a high risk of perforation. Results: Other techniques of blunt dissection, such as the Melles technique, cannot be utilized after failure to achieve a big bubble, as emphysema in the stroma prevents visualization of the spatula. In contrast, our blunt scissors lamellar dissection technique takes advantage of the emphysema and microdetachments of DM created by the pneumatic injection. Conclusion: This technique provides deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty surgeons with a simple, alternative method of baring DM or achieving a pre-DM plane with minimal residual stroma, after failure to achieve a big bubble.
Using Direct Behavior Rating (DBR) to Screen for School Social Risk A Preliminary Comparison of Methods in a Kindergarten Sample

In this study, preliminary evidence of the potential for Direct Behavior Rating (DBR) in screening assessment of school social behavior is provided through evaluation of the concurrent validity of ...
THE KINETICS OF INITIAL NUCLEAR EXCHANGE IN COMPATIBLE AND NONCOMPATIBLE MATINGS OF SCHIZOPHYLLUM COMMUNE

A B S T R A C T The effect of mating-type factors on exchange of nuclei between mycelial fragments mated in liquid culture was studied. Evidence for exchange of nuclei was based on three criteria for detecting nuclei from both mating partners in mycelial fragments of the developing dikaryon or heterokaryon. The kinetics of nuclear exchange were shown to be relatively independent of the method used. It was shown that the kinetics of nuclear exchange in the first 96 hr are different in the compatible (A41 B41 X A42 B42), common-A (A42 B42 X A42 B41), common-B (A41 B42 X A42 B42), and common-AB (A41 B41 X A41 B41) matings. In all four types of matings, the percentage of fragments possessing both types of nuclei 12-24 hr after mating is nearly equal. After this time, significant differences appear in the patterns for compatible vs. the three noncompatible matings and the common-A vs. the common-B and common-AB matings. The percentage of mycelial fragments possessing both types of nuclei throughout the 96-hr test period is similar for both the common-B and common-AB matings. The kinetics of nuclear exchange were shown to be independent of the particular mating-type alleles and nutritional markers used. When the efficiency of nuclear exchange in complete and minimal media was compared, it was shown that nuclear exchange occurred more rapidly and synchronously in minimal medium. This difference is not due to growth differences in the two media. These data indicate that the earliest mating interactions, i.e., hyphal anastomosis and nuclear exchange, are independent of the mating-type factors but that subsequent events are determined by these genes.
Firing rate control of a neuron using a linear Proportional-Integral (PI) controller

Controlling the firing rate of a neuron is useful for experiments where you would like to see how a small perturbation to the neuron deviates it from its normal period. This is used to characterize phase response curves (PRCs). PRCs can be used to predict how networks of neurons will synchronize, which help in understanding dynamical diseases as epilepsy. In PRC experiments, it is necessary first to apply a constant current in order to make the neuron to fire at a desired constant frequency and then series of short perturbations are applied to find the causal relationship between the timing of the perturbation and the change in the natural period of the neuron. Cells that spike regularly are preferred for this experiment because they tend to keep a constant interspike interval (ISI) at a given constant current. However, even when constant current is applied there are small variations in the ISI that obscure or confound the change of the period caused by the perturbations. These variations can be broken into two types, jitter, which characterizes the rapid changes in interspike intervals from spike to spike, and drift, which characterizes the slow changes in firing rate of the neuron over the time scales in which we measure the phase response curves, on the order of minutes. We designed a linear Proportional-Integral (PI) controller to remove the slow drift and maintain the neuron at a desired firing rate by controlling the current applied to the neuron. We measured the change in ISI in response to steps of constant current. A discrete first order model was fit to the measured response. Then, the proportional and integral coefficients were estimated using a z-domain analysis to obtain critical damping of the neuron’s response. When the controller is on, the histogram of ISI is centered at the set value and also is narrower than using constant current, which implies variance reduction. The PI controller was then tested first on a model neuron and then and then implemented in a dynamic clamp and tested on pyramidal neurons from hippocampal rat slices. Furthermore, we implemented an auto-tuning algorithm that will estimate the coefficients on line. The program runs on Real Time eXperiment Interface (RTXI), which is a real-time Linux based software system for hard real-time data acquisition and control applications. The RTXI PI control module we have made will be available to the community trough the rtxi website.
Comparison of scores of hearing-impaired children on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales and the Vineland Social Maturity Scale.

A study comparing the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales with the original Vineland Social Maturity Scale was conducted with a sample of 37 hearing-impaired children. A brief discussion of the literature showed a current lack of instrumentation for assessing adaptive behavior of such children. Correlations of scores on the two scales were significant and positive. Comparisons of mean standard scores indicated that the Social Maturity Scale yielded significantly higher standard scores than the Adaptive Behavior Scales.
Optical vortex solitons and the stability of dark soliton stripes.

Dark soliton stripes are robust but can decay into optical vortex solitons when subjected to a persistent, long-period, transverse modulation. We explore the nonlinear dynamics of this symmetry-breaking process and determine growth rates, vortex densities, and other characteristics by conducting a nonlinear stability analysis that uses numerical techniques for several cases of special interest.