cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of a Pilot Study for Amelioration of Itching in Liver Disease

This article presents an analysis of a small “failed clinical trial” that shows how the combination of solid statistical theory and methods and expert collaboration from other disciplines can lead to new areas of research. A double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study of 15 subjects was conducted in order to examine the efficacy of gabapentin in reducing itching and scratching secondary to liver disease. The data from the study contained missing values due to a number of mechanisms. In addition, the measurement instrument produced highly variable data, including large outliers. This article describes how these issues were resolved for this trial in an expedient manner, and particular attention is paid to a modification of nearest-neighbor hot-deck imputation. Although the study results were inconclusive with respect to the efficacy of gabapentin on itching, when they are considered in the light of other known properties of the drug, the outcome points to an exciting new line of inquiry on the role of gaba...
The maternal immune response inhibits the success of in utero hematopoietic cell transplantation

In utero hematopoietic cell transplantation (IUHCTx) is a promising strategy for the treatment of congenital stem cell disorders. Despite the purported immaturity of the fetal immune system, the clinical success of this strategy has been limited by poor engraftment of transplanted cells. The fetal host immune system is thought to be the major barrier to achieving successful IUHCTx. Since the fetal immune system is immature, however, we hypothesized that the maternal immune response may instead pose the true barrier to IUHCTx. We have demonstrated that maternal T cells traffic into the fetus after allogeneic in utero transplantation and that these lymphocytes play a critical role in limiting engraftment. Furthermore, we have shown that MHC matching the donor cells to the mother improves engraftment in the unmatched fetus. These results help renew interest in using the fetal environment to treat patients with congenital stem cell disorders.
Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations Are Regulated by Acute Hyperinsulinemia in Nondiabetic But Not Type 2 Diabetic Subjects

An association between hyperhomocysteinemia and premature atherosclerosis in patients with non—insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) has recently been described. Little is known about the role of insulin in homocysteine [H(e)] metabolism. We measured plasma H(e) concentrations in the fasting state and during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in normal subjects and patients with NIDDM. Plasma H(e) decreased significantly from 7.2 ± 2.6 to 6.0 ± 2.7 mmol/L (P < .01) in normal subjects, but did not change in patients with NIDDM (6.0 ± 2.7 to 5.9 ± 2.5 mmol/L, respectively). These data suggest that plasma H(e) concentrations are regulated by acute hyperinsulinemia in normal subjects, but not in insulin-resistant NIDDM subjects. These abnormalities may have implications for the pathogenesis of premature vascular disease associated with NIDDM.
Theoretical investigation of the relative stabilities of singlet and triplet disulfides

Abstract Ab initio molecular orbital calculations have been performed on the singlet ( 1 A) and triplet ( 3 A u ) states of hydrogen persulfide (HSSH) at the SCF and post-SCF levels using a double zeta basis set augmented with polarization functions. The relative energies for this system were computed by many-body perturbation theory (MBPT) and coupled-cluster (CC) methods, indicating that the singlet and triplet states are both lower in energy than the isolated HS fragments. Structural information for 1 [HSSH] determined at the SCF and post-SCF levels are in good agreement with experiment. The triplet state is very weakly bound (
Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) for sulfoxidation reactions in Mortierella isabellina ATCC 42613 and Helminthosporium sp. NRRL 4671.

Previous models for mechanisms of enzymatic sulfoxidation have been somewhat limited by a lack of knowledge of the essential features of substrate–enzyme versus product–enzyme relationships. Computerized methods for modeling ligand–protein (substrate–enzyme) interactions can overcome some of these limitations. Specifically, CoMFA (comparative molecular field analysis) provided a useful general approach in which to evaluate substrate–enzyme and product–enzyme relationships. The present investigation examined the relationship between substrate and product structure in predicting enantioselective sulfoxidation reactions using CoMFA for two species of microorganisms that have been used as models for mammalian metabolism, Mortierella isabellina and Helminthosporium sp. The overall enantioselectivity observed was based on the composite stereoselectivity of sulfoxide formation, sulfone formation (from the sulfoxide), and sulfoxide reduction back to the achiral substrate (sulfide).
Temporal Stability and Convergent Validity of the Behavior Assessment System for Children

Abstract This study assessed the temporal stability and convergent validity of the Behavioral Assessment System for Children (BASC). Teachers and parents rated 85 nonclinical kindergarten and first-grade students over a 6-month interval with the BASC and the Social Skills Rating System. Teachers were more stable than parents in rating children's externalizing behaviors and attention problems. Significant associations were found between the two rating systems' adaptive and clinical scales, and negative associations between the School Problems and Internalizing scales with standardized math and reading scores. The Externalizing Composite was negatively related to classroom conduct. Results are discussed in terms of the accuracy of information provided by different informants in social–emotional assessments of early school-age children.
Heterogeneous Interactions of HBr and HOCl with Cold Sulfuric Acid Solutions: Implications for Arctic Boundary Layer Bromine Chemistry

The heterogeneous interactions of HBr and HOCl with cold sulfuric acid solutions have been measured with a low-temperature, coated-wall flow tube coupled to an electron-impact mass spectrometer. In particular, (i) the effective Henry's law constants (H*) for the solubility of HBr in sulfuric acid solutions (40.3−60.5 wt %) have been determined by measuring the HBr partial pressure as a function of temperature, (ii) the values of HD1/2 of HOCl, where D is the liquid-phase diffusion coefficient, have been measured by monitoring the time-dependent uptake of HOCl over sulfuric acid solutions (59.7−69.3 wt %), and (iii) when the steady-state decay of gas-phase HOCl is monitored in the presence of an excess of HBr, the liquid-phase rate constant for reaction between dissolved HOCl and HBr has been measured to be 2 × 106 M-1 s-1 in 69.3 wt % acid at 228 K. When coupled with field observations from the Arctic boundary layer, these experimental results suggest that (i) heterogeneous interactions involving HOCl cou...
Elongation Variability of AM60 Die Cast Specimens

Tensile properties of die cast magnesium AM60 were investigated by testing tensile bar specimens obtained from three sources. The first series of tensile bars were cut from eight locations from multiple copies of a die cast magnesium AM60 automotive instrument panel beam. The second series were cut from six-inch square AM60 die cast plates in both the parallel and perpendicular to the flow direction. The last series of specimens were die cast AM60 tensile bars. The measured yield stress did not significantly depend on the specimen source and matched published values. However, the elongation as determined by the engineering strain at break in the tensile test varied significantly for samples cut from the automotive instrument panel beams and those cut from the six-inch by six-inch plates. The elongation remained constant for the cast tensile bars. Statistic General Linear Models were used to study the effect of casting conditions on both the yield stress and the strain at break. Sample location within the beams was the main factor for the material property variation.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Optimization of self-acting gas bearings for maximum static stiffness

The gap profile of a two-dimensional self-acting gas bearing is determined such that the static stiffness it can achieve is maximum. Three fundamental profiles are obtained according to the stiffness mode to be considered: normal, pitch, or roll. The optimization process takes place within the framework of the compressible lubrication theory among all the profiles having a given minimum film thickness
Costs of overstocking on cattle and wildlife ranches in Zimbabwe

Abstract In African semi-arid savannas livestock production frequently dominates human activity, but it has been claimed that wildlife ranching can be more profitable than extensive beef production. Traditional accounting methods generally exclude the biological costs of stocking effects on rangeland productivity. This paper presents a framework for evaluating overstocking effects on the financial profits (based on market prices) and economic profits (estimated from the opportunity costs of inputs and outputs) of alternative range-based animal production systems. The method was applied to 50 commercial cattle, wildlife, and mixed ranches in the Zimbabwe Midlands using 1989/90 data. Level of overstocking was estimated from positive differences between grazer stocking rate and rangeland carrying capacity, which was predicted from long-term mean annual rainfall. Since it is generally impossible to accurately quantify stocking effects on rangeland productivity, and thus to confidently evaluate overstocking costs, values ranging from Z$0.00 to Z$0.50 kg-1 ha-1 overstocking were used. The resulting range of costs were subtracted from financial and economic profits. Cattle ranches were significantly overstocked while mixed and wildlife ranches were not. Thus cattle ranch profits decreased more rapidly with increasing simulated overstocking cost. In other words, with increasing sensitivity to overstocking, wildlife and mixed ranches had a higher probability of remaining financially and economically profitable than did cattle ranches.
A novel adenosine precursor 2',3'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate inhibits formation of post-surgical adhesions.

Background Intraperitoneal adenosine reduces abdominal adhesions. However, because of the ultra-short half-life and low solubility of adenosine, optimal efficacy requires multiple dosing.
Colonization of a dynamic substrate: factors influencing recruitment of the wood-boring isopod, Sphaeroma terebrans, onto red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) prop roots

The isopod Sphaeroma terebrans, which bores into the prop roots of the red mangrove, Rhizophora mangle, can cause death and subsequent breakage of the inhabited root and, debatably, may reduce the support system of the tree. We examined whether different characteristics of a root or its physical setting, both of which may relate to habitat quality, influence the colonization of S. terebrans. A series of in situ experimental manipulations were conducted over 2 years. The first experimental protocol examined colonization of intact root substratum. Free-hanging aerial prop roots which were previously unsubmerged were bent down and anchored underwater at high tide after which the colonization of S. terebrans was monitored. A second manipulation was performed to evaluate the relative roles of submergence depth and plant anatomy in isopod colonization preference. Detached aerial prop roots were oriented either with the root tip directed downward, or upside down with the root tip directed upward but at a constant water depth. Additionally, detached aerial prop roots were oriented so that their tips were in contact with the sediment surface in order to investigate whether colonization on grounded roots was prevented by benthic predators. For all experiments, colonization began within 24 h; juveniles were the predominant colonizers. The submergence depth of a prop root, a characteristic of a root's physical setting, was consistently the strongest component correlated with the abundance of colonizing S. terebrans. The root-quality feature of root diameter was also found to play a significant role in colonization. Biotic influences, such as predation, however, did not influence recruitment of the isopod onto a root. Additionally, the absence of burrowing on grounded roots appeared to be related to intrinsic plant features. Along a root there was a strong preference by S. terebrans to colonize the root tip region (i.e., youngest part of the root) especially when these roots were also the deepest. The results of our experimental manipulation using natural root substratum are the first to identify physical setting as an important feature of habitat suitability for S. terebrans.
Nineteen new microsatellite DNA polymorphisms in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina)

Microsatellite loci known to be polymorphic in baboons (Papio hamadryas) and/or humans were tested in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) from the Washington Regional Primate Research Center. Nineteen polymorphisms were identified in the macaques, with an average of 9.2 alleles per locus and an average heterozygosity of 0.76. Seven loci were analyzed using radiolabelled PCR primers and standard gel electrophoresis. Twelve loci were studied using fluorescently labelled primers and the Perkin-Elmer ABI 377 genotyping system. Of these 19 pigtailed macaque polymorphisms, 12 were used to perform paternity testing among captive animals. In a set of 15 infants, this panel of 12 genetic polymorphisms was sufficient to establish paternity in all cases. The number of alleles per locus in pigtailed macaques was compared with the number of alleles in a sample of baboons, and no significant correlation was observed. This indicates that population genetic processes such as genetic drift and recurrent mutation act rapidly enough on these loci to eliminate any relationship in levels of polymorphism across those two species. These 19 loci will be valuable for a range of genetic studies in pigtailed macaques, including paternity testing, analysis of population structure and differentiation among wild populations, and genetic linkage mapping.
Effects of Strain and Rearing Dietary Regimens on Brown-Egg Pullet Growth and Strain, Rearing Dietary Regimens, Density, and Feeder Space Effects on Subsequent Laying Performance

Abstract The objective of this experiment was to compare the growth and development of two brown-egg strains when grown on three different dietary regimens, i.e., a “normal” step-down protein (SDP) regimen, a step-up protein regimen with a low energy starter (SUPLES), and a step-up protein regimen with a high energy starter (SUPHES). The SUPLES and SUPHES feeding regimens resulted in significantly lower BW and feed conversion, shorter sternum length, and lower tibial breaking strength than the SDP regimen. The weights of the liver, spleen, and fat pad were not different among the three regimens. The high energy starter in the SUPHES regimen significantly reduced FC below that obtained with the SUPLES program. The SUPHES regimen significantly reduced total feed cost compared with the other two feeding regimens. Both step-up protein regimens reduced total protein, energy, Ca, P, lysine, and sulfur amino acid consumption. Because tibial breaking strength was also reduced by the step-up protein regimens, the data suggest that the levels of dietary Ca and P should be increased with these programs to compensate for the reduced consumption associated with them.
Student Perceptions of Marketing Careers and Career Decision Influences: A Retiling Example:

College students were surveyed to determine important personal and work-related influences on career choice, perceptions of seven marketing career paths, and intent to pursue each of these paths. Building on previous research, this study also investigated the career choice influences and likelihood of pursuit of various retail career paths.
Anxious depression among the elderly: Clinical and phenomenological correlates

This study investigated clinical, historical and phenomenological correlates of anxious depression in a sample of 159 depressed elders. Regression analyses indicated that comorbidity of anxiety and depression was associated with a history of a greater number of depressive episodes, more negative stressors and with a higher self-reported average stress level over the past six months. Significant bivariate correlates also included feeling sinful, guilty, or worthless, early depressive onset and attempted suicide. The findings suggest a stress-related younger age of onset sub-type of elderly depression which is clinically distinct from late onset elderly depression
Toxicology studies of a chemical mixture of 25 groundwater contaminants. II. Immunosuppression in B6C3F1 mice.

Concern over the potential adverse health effects of chemically contaminated groundwater has existed for many years. In general, these studies have focused on retrospective epidemiological studies for cancer risk. In the present studies, immune function was monitored in female B6C3F1 mice exposed to a chemical mixture in drinking water for either 14 or 90 days. The mixture consisted of 25 common groundwater contaminants frequently found near toxic waste dumps, as determined by EPA surveys. None of the animals developed overt signs of toxicity such as body or liver weight changes. Mice exposed to the highest dose of this mixture for 14 or 90 days showed immune function changes which could be related to rapidly proliferating cells, including suppression of hematopoietic stem cells and of antigen-induced antibody-forming cells. Some of these responses, e.g., granulocyte-macrophage colony formation, were also suppressed at lower concentrations of the chemical mixture. There were no effects on T cell function or T and B cell numbers in any of the treatment groups. Altered resistance to challenge with an infectious agent also occurred in mice given the highest concentration, which correlated with the immune function changes. Paired-water studies indicated that the immune effects were related to chemical exposure and not to decreased water intake. These results suggest that long-term exposure to contaminated groundwater may represent a risk to the immune system in humans.
Enhanced diffusion welding of TD-NiCr sheet.

A method termed 'enhanced diffusion welding' has been developed to produce solid-state welds in TD-NiCr (Ni-20Cr-2ThO2) alloy sheet with weld strengths of 100% of the parent metal strength. Diffusion welded joints were made in specially processed TD-NiCr that equaled the tensile-shear and creep-rupture shear strengths of the parent material at 1090 deg C. The following observations have been made: specially processed TD-NiCr is preferred over commercial TD-NiCr for diffusion welding; the weld line can be eliminated when joining specially processed TD-NiCr by 600-grit sanding and electropolishing the faying surfaces prior to welding; and, a two-step weld cycle is preferred for diffusion welding of this alloy.
Restoring restoration: removal of the invasive plant Microstegium vimineum from a North Carolina wetland

Restoration sites are vulnerable to plant invasions due to habitat and resource alteration. We conducted an invasive plant-removal study at a wetland restoration in the North Carolina Piedmont, a site dominated by the non-native invasive, Microstegium vimineum. Paired plots (M. vimineum hand-weeded and unweeded) were established and maintained to monitor response of plant species richness and diversity. Plots increased from 4 to 15 species m−2 after three growing seasons of M. vimineum removal and 90% of the newly establishing species were native. Weeding ceased in the fourth growing season and M. vimineum rapidly re-invaded. Formerly weeded plots increased to 59% (±11% SE) M. vimineum cover, 25 of 51 plant species disappeared from the plots, and species richness decreased to an average of <8 species m−2. Our results show that we can quickly establish an abundant, diverse community with invasive removal, but that persistent effort is required to monitor and maintain the long-term viability of this community.
Grade Point Average Differences between Dual and Nondual Credit College Students

We examined the first and final term grade point averages (GPA) for a class of students at a Texas community college to determine how dual enrollment credit influenced GPA. Five statistically significant differences, albeit small effect sizes, were present by gender and by ethnic membership. Dual credit students had higher GPAs than did nondual credit students. Interestingly, dual enrollment did not have a statistically significant influence on GPAs for Asian students or for students after two years at this community college. As such, this study is the first research investigation of which we are aware in which student GPA in the first college semester and at the end of the second year was compared between dual credit and nondual credit students. Implications of our findings and suggestions for future research are provided.
An electromotive force series for redox couples in a borosilicate melt: The basis for electron exchange interactions of the redox couples

Abstract Oxidation-reduction equilibria for Ag, Ce, Co, Cr, Cu, Eu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sn, Ti, U, and V in a borosilicate liquid at 1150°C have been studied as a function of imposed oxygen fugacity. Redox couples for these multivalent elements could then be assigned a relative reduction potential and, thus, could be arranged in an electromotive force series in this glass-forming solvent. The electromotive force series in the borosilicate melt is comparable to that in other solvent systems and even to that in aqueous solution. All involve the redox ions associated with a coordination sphere of oxygens, but each possesses unique characteristics due to specific solvation interactions. The relative reduction potentials can be employed to predict the percentages of oxidized and reduced species of a multivalent element during the processing of borosilicate glass. For example, the difference in reduction potential of two interacting redox couples can predict to a first approximation the degree of mutual interaction by electron exchange. The mechanism for redox interaction is probably analogous to the inner-sphere redox mechanism for electron exchange between inorganic coordination complexes. The borosilicate oxygen ligands associated with the redox ions play an integral role in the electron transfer process. This concept provides credence to the clustering of redox ions in melts.
Variations in Near-Global Sea Level Pressure: Another View

Abstract The behavior of large-scale patterns of sea level pressure is documented using a simple composite analysis over the period 1951–85. One interpretation of the maps shows that anomalies of a given sign appear sequentially along a closed, counterclockwise trajectory that transits Asia, eastward through the tropics of the Indo-Pacific then into the eastern Pacific, and finally back to Asia via the North Pacific. A typical time scale for this process is approximately 2 yr. Unfortunately, the composites are noisy and often poorly defined, thus allowing alternate interpretations.
Heat shock induces metamorphosis in the larvae of the prosobranch gastropod Crepidula fornicata

The mechanism through which external cues trigger the metamorphosis of marine invertebrate larvae is incompletely understood. Much of what we currently understand about signal transduction pathways in larval marine invertebrates is based on larval responses to neuroactive compounds, pharmacological agents, and elevated ion concentrations. This paper shows that the larvae of Crepidula fornicata can also be induced to metamorphose through brief exposure to thermal shock. Exposure of larvae to lower temperature regimens (e.g., a shift from 20 °C to 25 °C through 30 °C or from 25 °C to 28 °C or 30 °C) was not effective in inducing metamorphosis. By contrast, a 2-h exposure to 32 °C induced metamorphosis significantly above the control levels regardless of whether the larvae were reared at 20 °C or 25 °C. Thus, the absolute exposure temperature was more important than the magnitude of the temperature increase for inducing metamorphosis. Moreover, the larvae of C. fornicata became responsive to temperature shock several days after they became comparably responsive to a previously documented metamorphic trigger, elevated concentrations of potassium ions. Further exploration of the heat shock metamorphic response may improve our understanding of how the metamorphic pathway develops and works in this species.
IV Some Consequences of the Scientific Study of Religion

1This article is composed of brief excerpts from the introduction and conclusion of Religion, Society, and the Individual, by J. Milton Yinger, 1957. It is published by special permission of The Macmillan Company
Review of Both Hands Tied: Welfare Reform and the Race to the Bottom of the Low‐Wage Labor Market

Melissa A. Gunderson reviews Both Hands Tied: Race to the Bottom of the Low-Wage Labor Market by Jane L. Collins and Victoria Mayer. The authors examine the results of welfare “reform” through the eyes of thirty-three women who participated in PRWORA programs in the state of Wisconsin.
Development of Aerosol Monitoring Instrument and Results from Monitoring Emissions of Contained Detonations

To determine the airborne emissions that occur when conventional munitions are destroyed by open burn/open detonation (OB/OD), munitions shots were carried out in a large underground (4650 m3) chamber. Carrying out the tests in a chamber allows the total emissions to be measured, which is not possible in open-air testing. We report here the development of an instrument to measure the time-dependent mass concentration and aerosol size distribution of respirable aerosols (< 10 μ m) from detonations of artillery projectiles in the underground chamber. The instrument incorporates an on-line diluter and real-time cascade impactor for aerosol monitoring. Design, flow modeling, construction details, and results from the instrument are given. Particulate emissions from detonations of twenty four 155 mm artillery projectiles, with a total of 377 lbs net explosive weight, were monitored. Aerosol measurements from the two duplicate tests were very similar. Aerosol mass concentrations showed rapid decreases from 37,0...
Indicators for Recovery of Renal Function

Although guidelines for initiation of dialysis in End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients are established, little is known about indicators of recovery of renal function. Renal function of dialysis-dependent (DD) patients is seldom followed and when renal function begins to normalize, it may be attributed to malnutrition. We studied a group of DD patients who recovered renal functions and were taken off dialysis. Eight patients with mean age of 53.8 ± 6.7 years ( ± SEM) were identified. Four were male. Three were Caucasian, 3 African American, 1 Asian and 1 Hispanic. The cause of renal failure was focal segmental glomerulonephritis (FSGS) in 4 patients, atheroembolism or contrast nephropathy in 2 patients, membranous glomerulonephritis in 1 patient and vHIV nephropathy in 1 patient. Six patients had uremic symptoms, 1 had rapidly declining renal function and 1 had refractory anasarca. The mean duration on dialysis was 11.1 ± 4.2 months. Four patients had either acute renal failure or acute on chronic renal failure. All had good urine output and 3 had no symptoms on dialysis. The other 5 could not tolerate dialysis due to symptoms. Three patients had normal serum chemistries. Their pre-initiation creatinine was 5.21 ± 0.6 mg/dl and BUN of 72.12 ± 11.12 mg/dl. These patients remained without dialysis for 19.75 ± 5.97 months. The mean creatinine after cessation of dialysis was 2.85 ± 0.57 mg/dl and BUN was 29.62 ± 5.26 mg/dl, while the mean creatinine clearance calculated by 24-hour urine collection was 29.75 ± 4.78 ml/min. One patient who was transferred to other facility died due to HIV complications. All patients except 1 who had to reinitiate dialysis after nine months continue to enjoy a dialysis free life. We therefore suggest that ESRD care providers should be aware of the possibility of recovery of renal function, especially in those who have significant urine output and those with acute renal failure. Dialysis intolerance should be considered a potential indicator of recovery of renal function.
Determination of the free energies of formation of NaNiF3 and NaFeF3

Abstract The free energies of formation of NaNiF3 and NaFeF3 were estimated from measurements of the following equilibria in molten NaBF4 Na M F 3 ( c ) ⇌ NaF(d) + M F 2 ( c ) where M represents either Ni or Fe. The necessary activities of NaF were estimated from measurements of BF3 pressures corresponding to the dissociation pressures of the solvent, NaBF4. The data obtained permits the calculation of corrosion equilibria such as 2 HF(g) + M( in a Ni alloy ) + NaF(d) ⇌ Na M F 3 ( c ) + H 2 ( g ).
Anemia and Mucocutaneous Lesions Due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infections

Exanthem is common in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections. Occasionally this exanthem is severe (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), and usually it occurs in association with pneumonia. Hemolytic anemia, which also usually occurs in association with pneumonia, is a rare but severe manifestation of M. pneumoniae infection. The association of exanthem and pneumonia or of hemolytic anemia and pneumonia should suggest the diagnosis of M. pneumoniae infection, and an appropriate work-up should be carried out
Measuring the social and economic performance of catch share programs: Definition of metrics and application to the U.S. Northeast Region groundfish fishery

Abstract In May 2010 the New England Fishery Management Council introduced a catch share, program in the Northeast Multispecies (groundfish) Fishery. Amendment 16 of the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan allocated quota to 17 self organized groups of permit holders based on their collective catch history. These groups are commonly referred to as Sectors and are similar to harvest cooperatives. Sectors represented a significant shift from previous management approaches reliant on limits to days at sea and other input controls. Given the potential for significant social and economic effects of catch shares and other management programs, social and economic performance measures were developed from 2009 to 2010 by Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) social scientists. Previous social and economic monitoring of management outcomes had been ad hoc and provided minimal opportunity for inter-fishery comparison. This paper describes the process of identifying performance measures and associated indicators to serve as the foundation of monitoring social and economic outcomes for all federal fisheries in the U.S. Northeast Region, and for planning NEFSC social and economic research priorities. It then presents how these performance measures were applied to assess the first year of the Amendment 16 Sector program. Challenges and limitations of this process are presented along with a description of efforts underway to broaden the use of these social and economic metrics to other fisheries.
Fingerprint recognition performance evaluation for mobile ID applications

According to a report by Frost and Sullivan in 2007, revenues for non-AFIS fingerprint devices in notebook PC's and wireless devices is anticipated to grow from $148.5 million to $1588.0 million by 2014, a compound annual growth rate of 40.3% [1]. The AFIS market has a compound annual growth rate of 15.2% with revenues of $445.0 million in 2007. With the development of mobile applications in a number of different market segments, such as healthcare, retail, and law enforcement, this paper analyzed the performance of fingerprints of different sizes, from different sensors (commercialy available optical and capacitance) which were generated in accordance with NIST Mobile ID best practices document using an automated image cropping process. The minutiae count, image quality scores, false non match rates (FNMR) and false match rates (FMR) were evaluated for images of seven different image sizes, ranging from 0.098?X0.126? to 0.578?X0.618?. The results provide insight into constraints of fingerprint image sizes, interoperability and fingerprint matching of different sizes in a mobile ID environment.
A mouse model for varicella-zoster virus latency.

Following primary infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the virus establishes a latent infection in humans. The molecular pathogenesis of VZV latency is not well understood, mainly due to the lack of an adequate animal model. We report here that we have developed a mouse model for VZV infection that involves corneal inoculation of mice. Although infected animals showed no signs of disease, most of the animals could not eliminate the virus early after infection. By PCR, we demonstrated that at 33 days post-infection (p.i.), viral DNA was still present in more than 60% of the animals (14/21). VZV DNA was most frequently detected in the trigeminal ganglia (7/14) followed by the brain stem (10/21), kidneys (4/21), spleen (3/20), liver (2/21) and brain (1/21). By in situ hybridization, a few cells positive for VZV mRNA were detected in the trigeminal ganglia, brain stem, cerebellum and spleen of a small number of the infected animals as late as 33 days p.i. No viral proteins were detected at the site of inoculation or in any other tissue by immunostaining. Our results suggest that VZV spreads in mice by both viraemia and axonal transport and establishes a non-productive (latent) infection.
FABRICATION OF HIGH PERFORMANCE POWDER-METALLURGY ALUMINUM MATRIX COMPOSITES

ABSTRACT Recent years have seen the development of a wide range of high-performance discontinuously reinforced aluminum powder metallurgy composites. These materials have combined both standard wrought, e.g., 6061 and 2124, and specialty matrix compositions, e.g., Al-Cu-Mg-Li and Al-Fe-Ce, with a wide variety of discontinuous reinforcements, e.g., Al2O3, B4C, SiCp and SiCw. This paper discusses the manufacturing procedures utilized to fabricate these light-weight powder-metallurgy composites. Emphasis is given to developing a generalized framework for understanding the interrelationship existing between thermo-mechanical treatment and the mechanical behavior of these composite systems.
An investigation of the involvement of cytoskeletal structures and secretion in gliding motility of the marine diatom, Amphora coffeaeformis

Gliding motility was investigated in the marine diatom, Amphora coffeaeformis. Ultrastructural, biochemical, and pharmacological protocols were employed to probe the possible involvement of cytoskeletal proteins and a secretory process in gliding motility. Motility rate was measured using a video recording apparatus, and the effects of various cytoskeleton-disrupting drugs on motility were tested. Cytochalasins D and E, podophyllotoxin, and vinblastine (all at 25 μUg/ml) reversibly inhibited motility, as did monensin (10 μUM) and pronase (25 μUg/ml). Biochemical protein analysis of whole-cell extracts by one- and two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed polypeptides comigrating with rabbit skeletal muscle actin and bovine brain tubulin; however, specific assays used to separate actin from whole-cell preparations gave ambiguous results. Ultrastructural studies revealed the presence of extracellular material between the raphe canal and the substratum in motile cultures. An assay was devised for the detection of radioactively labeled material (MW > 1800 Daltons) released by motile cultures into the culture medium. When cultures were treated with either an anticytoskeletal drug or monensin, motility was inhibited while the amount of measured radioactivity increased over solvent-treated control groups. The results from this study indicate possible roles for both actin- and tubulin-based structures in gliding motility of Amphora. Though secretion may be necessary for gliding to occur, its exact relationship to motility was not deduced. The data obtained in this study are compatible with a theory for the mechanism of gliding which involves the surface translocation of externally exposed membrane proteins against an immobile matrix of substratum-attached secreted material to generate the force required for movement.
The case for efficient renewable energy management in smart homes

Distributed generation (DG) uses many small on-site energy sources deployed at individual buildings to generate electricity. DG has the potential to make generation more efficient by reducing transmission and distribution losses, carbon emissions, and demand peaks. However, since renewables are intermittent and uncontrollable, buildings must still rely, in part, on the electric grid for power. While DG deployments today use net metering to offset costs and balance local supply and demand, scaling net metering for intermittent renewables to many homes is difficult. In this paper, we explore a different approach that combines residential TOU pricing models with on-site renewables and modest energy storage to incentivize DG. We propose a system architecture and control algorithm to efficiently manage the renewable energy and storage to minimize grid power costs at individual buildings. We evaluate our control algorithm by simulation using a collection of real-world data sets. Initial results show that the algorithm decreases grid power costs by 2.7X while nearly eliminating grid demand peaks, demonstrating the promise of our approach.
Optical measurements of vocal fold tensile properties: Implications for phonatory mechanics

In voice research, in vitro tensile stretch experiments of vocal fold tissues are commonly employed to determine the tissue biomechanical properties. In the standard stretch-release protocol, tissue deformation is computed from displacements applied to sutures inserted through the thyroid and arytenoid cartilages, with the cartilages assumed to be rigid. Here, a non-contact optical method was employed to determine the actual tissue deformation of vocal fold lamina propria specimens from three excised human larynges in uniaxial tensile tests. Specimen deformation was found to consist not only of deformation of the tissue itself, but also deformation of the cartilages, as well as suture alignment and tightening. Stress–stretch curves of a representative load cycle were characterized by an incompressible Ogden model. The initial longitudinal elastic modulus was found to be considerably higher if determined based on optical displacement measurements than typical values reported in the literature. The present findings could change the understanding of the mechanics underlying vocal fold vibration. Given the high longitudinal elastic modulus the lamina propria appeared to demonstrate a substantial level of anisotropy. Consequently, transverse shear could play a significant role in vocal fold vibration, and fundamental frequencies of phonation should be predicted by beam theories accounting for such effects.
Knowledge Sourcing from Repositories: The Role of System Characteristics and Autonomy

Organizations invest in the development of knowledge repositories (KR) to foster knowledge reuse and integration. Yet many KR initiatives fail to meet expectations, in part because knowledge workers underutilize the KR as a knowledge source. To date, little empirical research has considered how enabling characteristics of a KR influence individuals' propensity to use it as a knowledge source. This paper draws on extant knowledge management literature, including research on knowledge-based system design, to develop hypotheses relating key KR characteristics to KR knowledge sourcing behavior. These hypotheses are tested using survey data from 110 technical support agents from seven companies. Results reveal that support for online action (finding knowledge in the KR), support for offline action (applying retrieved knowledge to problem solving) and support for knowledge sharing are characteristics of a KR that predict its use as a knowledge source. Moreover, two of these relationships are moderated by the degree to which the knowledge worker retains autonomy in determining her work procedures. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
An Analytical Method to Assess Microstructure in Li-Ion Battery Cathodes

The successful implementation of electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices within a sustainable energy infrastructure is an inherently multi-scale problem that can benefit from device design at the nano- and micro-scales. These design efforts can be facilitated through the development of analytical models for assessing the merit of microstructural candidate designs. To this end, an analytical model has been developed based on an analogy between charge transport in the presence of electrochemical reactions and thermal fin analysis. This modeling approach provides a method for promptly evaluating microstructures that can be produced with established and novel fabrication techniques. This approach is applied to the assessment of Li-ion battery cathode microstructure by focusing on electronic transport within the solid cathode material. The influence of microstructural morphology on electrode performance is addressed for a set of common cathode materials and the microstructural design implications associated with these materials are discussed.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Autologous Transplantation Therapy for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

THE TERM CHRONIC myelogenous leukemia (CML) belies the insidious, unsparing course of this lethal hematopoietic malignancy. In CML, the malignant transformation of a hematopoietic stem cell results in a vast expansion of progenitor, precursor, and mature hematopoietic cells of malignant clonal
Alteration of neural tissue structure by expression of polysialic acid induced by viral delivery of PST polysialyltransferase

The expression of polysialic acid (PSA) on neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is known to attenuate cell-cell interactions. During neural development the widespread expression of PSA-NCAM creates permissive conditions for the migration of neuronal and glial precursors and the guidance and targeting of axons. NCAM polysialylation can occur via either of two specific sialyltransferases, ST8SiaII (STX) and ST8SiaIV (PST), and the purpose of this study was to determine if retroviral delivery of either PST or STX could induce PSA expression in vivo and thereby alter tissue plasticity. Retroviruses expressing GFP-PST or GFP-STX were injected into embryonic retina, and development was evaluated by examining neuroepithelial structure, the expression of markers for specific cell types, cellular proliferation, and apoptosis. Chick retina was chosen because it down-regulates PSA early in its development and has a highly stereotyped program of morphogenesis. Retroviral expression of PST induced PSA expression in retina and resulted in severe but localized alterations in retinal morphogenesis, including an early disruption of radial glial cell morphology, highly disorganized retinal layers, and invasion of pigmented cells into the neural retina. In contrast, retroviral delivery of STX did not induce PSA expression or affect morphogenesis. These findings demonstrate that expression of PSA is sufficient to promote morphological alterations in a relatively nonplastic neural tissue.
SMG: a new simulation/optimization approach for large-scale problems

It typically can be difficult to create and solve optimization models for large-scale sequential decision problems, examples of which include applications such as communications networks, inventory problems, and portfolio selection problems. Monte Carlo simulation modeling allows for the creation and evaluation of these large-scale models without requiring a complete analytical specification. Unfortunately, optimization of such simulation models is especially difficult given the large state spaces that often produce a combinatorially explosive number of potential solution policies. In this paper we introduce a new technique, Simulation for Model Generation (SMG), that begins with a simulation model of the system of interest and then automatically builds and solves an underlying stochastic sequential decision model of the system. Since construction and implementation of the created model requires approximation techniques, we also discuss several types of error that are induced into the decision process. Fortunately, the decision policies produced by the SMG approach can be directly evaluated in the original simulation model-thus the results of the SMG model can be compared against any other possible strategies, including any decision policies currently in use.
Aging-like Phenotype and Defective Lineage Specification in SIRT1-Deleted Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells

Aging hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) exhibit defective lineage specification that is thought to be central to increased incidence of myeloid malignancies and compromised immune competence in the elderly. Mechanisms underlying these age-related defects remain largely unknown. We show that the deacetylase Sirtuin (SIRT)1 is required for homeostatic HSC maintenance. Differentiation of young SIRT1-deleted HSCs is skewed toward myeloid lineage associated with a significant decline in the lymphoid compartment, anemia, and altered expression of associated genes. Combined with HSC accumulation of damaged DNA and expression patterns of age-linked molecules, these have striking overlaps with aged HSCs. We further show that SIRT1 controls HSC homeostasis via the longevity transcription factor FOXO3. These findings suggest that SIRT1 is essential for HSC homeostasis and lineage specification. They also indicate that SIRT1 might contribute to delaying HSC aging.
Use of 2-(4′-Hydroxybenzeneazo)benzoic Acid to Study the Binding of L-Thyroxine to Serum Albumins

A study was made to investigate the use of the dye 2-(4′-hydroxybenzeneazo)benzoic acid as a potential agent that would reflect the binding of l-thyroxine to serum albumins. The dye is a strong visible absorbing material which interacts with serum albumins to give characteristic spectrophotometric peaks and, as such, provides the basis for an extremely convenient assay to measure amounts, free and bound, after their separation in the presence of serum albumin and potential competitive inhibitors. The results obtained showed that the dye and l-thyroxine compete for the same binding site on bovine and rat serum albumins; thus the dye can be used to gauge the displacement of l-thyroxine from serum albumin by potential competitive inhibitors. Additionally, a method was introduced to evaluate statistically differences, between data sets, in y-intercepts obtained by linear regression. The method used should have general application.
A non-linear, passive, model of the leg drop pendulum test: assessing changes in spastic cerebral palsy after vertical accelerations

Reports on the use of a passive, second order non-linear model of the leg drop pendulum test as a means of gaining insight into a therapeutic intervention in spastic cerebral palsy. Optimization techniques are used to adjust model parameters, such that model data fits actual data. Actual data is taken from a set of triplets, two of which have varying degrees of spastic cerebral palsy and one is without disability. The author compares five sets of data, one from the normal triplet and two each from the subjects with spasticity. Data from the subjects with spasticity is taken before and after vertical stimulation similar to that which one would receive while on horseback. The model parameters show several trends. First, stiffness and dampening coefficients are higher in the models of the disabled subjects' data than the normal subjects. Second, these coefficients change, becoming more like the normal subject's coefficients after vertical accelerations. >