cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Skin deep: The decoupling of genetic admixture levels from phenotypes that differed between source populations

Objectives In genetic admixture processes, source groups for an admixed population possess distinct patterns of genotype and phenotype at the onset of admixture. Particularly in the context of recent and ongoing admixture, such differences are sometimes taken to serve as markers of ancestry for individuals-that is, phenotypes initially associated with the ancestral background in one source population are assumed to continue to reflect ancestry in that population. Such phenotypes might possess ongoing significance in social categorizations of individuals, owing in part to perceived continuing correlations with ancestry. However, genotypes or phenotypes initially associated with ancestry in one specific source population have been seen to decouple from overall admixture levels, so that they no longer serve as proxies for genetic ancestry. Here, we aim to develop an understanding of the joint dynamics of admixture levels and phenotype distributions in an admixed population. Methods We devise a mechanistic model, consisting of an admixture model, a quantitative trait model, and a mating model. We analyze the behavior of the mechanistic model in relation to the model parameters. Results We find that it is possible for the decoupling of genetic ancestry and phenotype to proceed quickly, and that it occurs faster if the phenotype is driven by fewer loci. Positive assortative mating attenuates the process of dissociation relative to a scenario in which mating is random with respect to genetic admixture and with respect to phenotype. Conclusions The mechanistic framework suggests that in an admixed population, a trait that initially differed between source populations might serve as a reliable proxy for ancestry for only a short time, especially if the trait is determined by few loci. It follows that a social categorization based on such a trait is increasingly uninformative about genetic ancestry and about other traits that differed between source populations at the onset of admixture.
A 10% Tomato Diet Selectively Reduces Radiation-Induced Damage in TRAMP Mice.

BACKGROUND Tomatoes contain carotenoids that have the potential to alter the effects of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). OBJECTIVES We hypothesized that dietary lyophilized tomato paste (TP) would reduce apoptosis within carotenoid-containing nonneoplastic tissues in EBRT-treated TRansgenic Adenocarcinoma of the Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) mice. METHODS Male TRAMP mice (n = 73) were provided an AIN-93G diet or a modified AIN-93G diet containing 10% TP (wt:wt) at 4 wk of age. Prostate tumor growth was monitored by ultrasound. The caudal half of the mouse was irradiated with 7.5 Gy (Rad) or 0 Gy (sham) at 24 wk of age or after the tumor volume exceeded 1000 mm3 with a Cobalt-60 source. Mice were euthanized 24 h postradiation. Carotenoids and α-tocopherol were measured by HPLC and compared by a t test. Tissues were assessed for radiation-induced changes (hematoxylin and eosin) and apoptosis [cleaved caspase-3 (CC3)] and compared by Kruskal-Wallis test or Freedman-Lane's permutation test. RESULTS Serum concentrations of lycopene (52% lower), phytoene (26% lower), and α-tocopherol (22% lower) were decreased in TP-fed irradiated mice (TP-Rad) compared with TP-fed sham mice (P < 0.05). CC3 scores increased within the prostate tumor with radiation treatments (P < 0.05), but were not affected by tomato consumption. In nonneoplastic tissues, TP-Rad had a lower percentage of CC3-positive cells within the cranial (67% lower) and caudal (75% lower) duodenum than irradiated mice on the control diet (Rad) (P < 0.005). Likewise, CC3 scores within the dorsolateral prostate of TP-Rad trended toward lower scores than for Rad (P = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS TP selectively reduces radiation-induced apoptosis in extratumoral tissues without decreasing radiation-induced apoptosis within the prostate tumor in TRAMP mice. Additional studies are needed to confirm and expand upon these findings.
Steroid Hormones as Biomarkers of Endocrine Disruption in Wildlife

Xenobiotic compounds introduced into the environment by human activity have been shown to adversely affect the endocrine system of wildlife. Various species exhibit abnormalities of (1) plasma sex steroid hormones, (2) altered steroid synthesis form the gonad in vitro and (3) altered steroidogenic enzyme function. These endpoints are sensitive and relatively easy to measure quantitatively with reliability and precision. These observations have led to the conclusion that sex steroid hormones could be markers of exposure to, and altered function from, endocrine disrupting contaminants (EDCs). However, there are serious limitations in the use of steroid hormones as generalized markers of EDC exposure. Steroid hormones exhibit seasonal, ontogenetic, gender and species-specific variation. Moreover, the regulation of sex steroid plasma concentrations is a relatively complex phenomenon capable of short-term (minutes-hours) alteration due to environmental inputs, such as acute stress--an activational response. Alterations in steroids synthesis and degradation also can be a response to altered embryonic development due to EDC exposure--an organizational response. If steroid hormones are to be used as biomarkers, then closely controlled, well designed sampling has to be performed. Additionally, an appreciation of the variation possible in endocrine responses among the species to be studied must be obtained.
Homonegative Microaggressions and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms

ABSTRACTIn this study, the connection between sexual orientation microaggressions and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms has been evaluated. The researchers measured the perception and impact of homonegative microaggressions, with the Homonegative Microaggression Scale (Wright & Wegner, 2012), as well as the severity of posttraumatic symptoms, with the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist—Civilian Version (Weathers, Litz, Huska, & Keane, 1994). Ninety lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) and 80 heterosexual participants were recruited through convenience sampling and online LGB communities. Completion of the measures occurred through an online survey system at the convenience of the participants. The results of the study revealed a positive correlation between reported posttraumatic symptoms and microaggressive experiences, and between posttraumatic symptoms and their perceived impact on participants. A difference between LGB and heterosexual participants' experiences of microaggressions was see...
Corruption's Hold on the Economy: An Examination of the Causes of Economic Development

This study focuses on the relationship between political corruption and economic development through a cross-national survey of twenty-three of the twenty-five European Union Member States. This study was conducted in order to expand on the research conducted by Margaret Goodman and Nathaniel Leff. The survey examined the effect of political corruption on six dependent variables that represent economic development: gross domestic product per capita, unemployment rate, education, fertility rate, infant mortality rate, and government debt. Of the six, GDP, unemployment and fertility were shown to be significant. The findings suggest that corruption index increase coupled with a job creation program caused decreases in unemployment and increases in GDP.
Inducing RNA interference in the arbovirus vector, Culicoides sonorensis.

Biting midges in the genus Culicoides are important vectors of arboviral diseases, including epizootic haemorrhagic disease, bluetongue and most likely Schmallenberg, which cause significant economic burdens worldwide. Research on these vectors has been hindered by the lack of a sequenced genome, the difficulty of consistent culturing of certain species and the absence of molecular techniques such as RNA interference (RNAi). Here, we report the establishment of RNAi as a research tool for the adult midge, Culicoides sonorensis. Based on previous research and transcriptome analysis, which revealed putative small interfering RNA pathway member orthologues, we hypothesized that adult C. sonorensis midges have the molecular machinery needed to perform RNA silencing. Injection of control double-stranded RNA targeting green fluorescent protein (dsGFP), into the haemocoel of 2–3-day-old adult female midges resulted in survival curves that support virus transmission. dsRNA injection targeting the newly identified C. sonorensis inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1 (CsIAP1) orthologue resulted in a 40% decrease of transcript levels and 73% shorter median survivals as compared with dsGFP-injected controls. These results reveal the conserved function of IAP1. Importantly, they also demonstrate the feasibility of RNAi by dsRNA injection in adult midges, which will greatly facilitate studies of the underlying mechanisms of vector competence in C. sonorensis.
Workshop I - Intelligent Tutoring Systems on the Web

Educational material has begun to proliferate on the World Wide Web. However, most of these applications are rather simple, providing little interaction or customization for students. A promising approach to Web-based education is the use of intelligent Web-based systems. In this workshop, we investigate the application of intelligent tutoring systems on the Web and bring together researchers who have had and can share their experiences in developing Web-based intelligent tutoring systems. Some of the questions we address concern the specific problems and advantages of the Web for intelligent tutoring systems. In particular, we address topics such as: How can we increase interactivity on the Web? How can we overcome delays due to downloading? Where will the intelligence be located? On the client? The server? A mix of both? What kind of intelligence can be used? Can we build systems as smart as our standalone systems? What type of connectivity and communication is possible between intelligent systems?
TD methods applied to mixture of experts for learning 9/spl times/9 Go evaluation function

The temporal difference (TD) method is applied on a committee of neural network experts to learn the board evaluation function for the oriental board game Go. The game has simple rules but requires complex strategies to play well, and the conventional tree search algorithm for computer games makes a poor Go program. Thus, the game Go is an ideal problem domain for exploring machine learning algorithms. Here, the neural networks learned a board evaluation function for Go played on 9/spl times/9 board sizes. Two learning algorithms, e.g., hybrid mixture of experts (HME) and Meta-Pi, are used to train the neural network experts. Both algorithms learned good Go evaluation functions and the neural network based Go engines were able to defeat a public domain rule-based program more than 50% of the times. The performances of the mixture networks are compared with that of a single feedforward network trained similarly.
Autobiography and women's travel writings in nineteenth‐century France: Journeys through self‐representation

Abstract This analysis of nineteenth‐century travel literature by French and francophone women examines the various mechanisms and strategies at play in women's struggle with self‐representation within the genre of travel writing. Through the works of three women travellers, Henriette d'Angeville, Adele Hommaire de Hell and Carla Serena, four main voices are identified as representing the plurality of self‐images women writers create in their texts: conventional autobiographical voices where they present themselves in a stereotypically feminine manner; conventional ‘neutral’ scientific voices where they take on the traditionally masculine task of science writing, thus erasing the autobiographical; differentiated scientific voices where they valorize a (private) sphere of knowledge dependent upon their personal experiences and valorized as such; and finally, differentiated autobiographical voices which undermine constraining representations of women by placing them in the valued public sphere. As a result,...
The Cannabinoid System and Cytokine Network

Many advances have been made in the last few years concerning our understanding of the receptors and ligands composing the cannabinoid system. Likewise, the science surrounding cytokine biology has advanced enabling us to measure these proteins more precisely as well as understand and interpret the meaning of changes in their levels. Scientists wishing to study the health consequences of smoking marijuana as well as understand the possible role of endogenous cannabimimetic ligands in immune regulation have continued to study the influence of these substances on the regulation and development of the cytokine network. Research has shown that two major cannabinoid receptor subtypes exist and that subtype 1 (CB1) is expressed primarily in the brain whereas subtype 2 (CB2) is expressed primarily in the periphery. A variety of ligands for these receptors based on the cannabinoid structure have been synthesized and studied as well as low affinity compounds, noncannabinoid ligands, and endogenous ligands derived from fatty acid eicosanoids. Highly selective receptor antagonists have also been introduced and studied. Synthetic, low affinity ligands such as (+)-HU-211 and DMH-11C have been shown to cause anti-inflammatory effects possibly through inhibiting the production and action of TNF-alpha and other acute phase cytokines. In addition, suppression of TNF and other cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-6, IFNgamma, and IL-12 has also been seen following exposure to high affinity and psychoactive ligands such as marijuana and THC. However, some of these ligands have also been shown to increase rather than decrease interleukins such as IL-1, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-6, cytokines such as TNF-alpha, and chemokines such as IL-8, MIP-1, and RANTES. The endogenous ligand, anandamide, has been shown in culture to either suppress the proliferation response to prolactin or enhance the response to cytokines such as IL-3 and IL-6. This eicosanoid has also been shown to increase the production of interleukins and other cytokines. Cannabinoid receptors have been shown to be involved in some but not all of these effects. It is clear that psychoactive and nonpsychoactive compounds have demonstrated effects in vivo and in vitro on the production and function of a variety of cytokines. Depending upon the model system, these effects are often conflicting, and the involvement of cannabinoid receptors is unclear. However, enough evidence exists to suggest that the cannabinoid system significantly impacts the functioning of the cytokine network, and this association may provide clues to the mechanisms of certain immune diseases and form the basis for new immunotherapies.
Effect of Channeling on Damage Rates Associated with Heavy-Ion Irradiation of Gold

Electron microscope studies of radiation damage produced by 60-MeV iodine ions in thin gold crystals have been made to determine the dependence of damage rate on orientation of the ion beam relative to [011] and (111). Experimental values of the minimum damage rates and half-widths were compared with calculations made with a Monte Carlo computer program using either the Thomas-Fermi or the Bohr potential and incorporating thermal vibrations. The thermal vibrations were found to be necessary for agreement with experiment, and agreement was better with the Thomas-Fermi potential than with the Bohr. Experimental observations by a stereo technique gave a tentative confirmation of a calculated depth dependence and showed in addition a deficiency of damage clusters near the surface. Strahlenschaden, durch 60 MeV-Jodionen in dunnen Goldkristallen erzeugt, wurden mit dem Elektronenmikroskop untersucht, um die Abhangigkeit der Schadigungsrate von der Orientierung des Ionenstrahles relativ zu [011] und (111) zu bestimmen. Experimentelle Werte der minimalen Schadigungsrate und Halbwertsbreite wurden mit Monte-Carlo-Rechnungen verglichen, die ein Thomas-Fermi-und ein Bohr-Potential benutzten und thermische Schwingungen berucksichtigten. Die Hinzunahme von thermischen Schwingungen war notig, um Ubereinstimmung mit dem Experiment zu erzielen. Das Thomas-Fermi-Potential ergab bessere Ergebnisse als das von Bohr. Beobachtungen mit einer Stereotechnik ergaben eine vorlaufige Bestatigung der berechneten Tiefenabhangigkeit und zeigten zusatzlich eine Verminderung von Strahlenschadenclustern nahe der Oberflache.
Proteolysis in Mozzarella Cheese During Refrigerated Storage

Abstract On four occasions, a 2.72-kg (6-lb) rectangular block of commercial Mozzarella cheese was obtained immediately after manufacture and brined (27% NaCl wt/wt, Ph 5.3) in the laboratory for 4h at 4°C. After brining, four concentric sections (1 = 0 to 1cm from surface, 2=1 to 2cm, 3=2 to 3cm, and 4=core) were taken from half the block and analyzed for NaCl, moisture, and proteolysis. The other half was vacuum packaged and aged at 4°C for 14 d prior to sectioning and analysis. Average NaCl concentrations in fresh cheese (1 d after manufacture) were highest (2.28±.28%) in section 1 and decreased sharply to s1 -casein to α s1-I -peptide, suggesting residual coagulant activity. Also the intensity of the band corresponding to β-casein decreased with concomitant increase in γ-casein bands, suggesting plasmin activity. Other unidentified bands with electrophoretic mobility slower than γ-caseins were noted. Between d 1 and 14 postmanufacture, α s1 -casein and β-casein decreased by 26.4±10.1% and 40.2±9.0%. Levels of total N soluble in water increased from 4.07±1.10% in fresh cheese to 9.66±1.61% in 14-d-old cheese.
Theoretical Studies of Models of the Active Site of the Tungstoenzyme Acetylene Hydratase

Models of the tungstoenzyme acetylene hydratase (AH), which catalyzes the addition of water to acetylene through a nonredox process, are examined using density-functional theory (DFT). The relative energy of acetylene adduct formation was calculated for several tungsten- and molydbenum-oxo dithiocarbamates (dtc) and dithiolates (dtl). Stronger coordination of acetylene to tungsten and dtc complexes is consistent with experimental Keq values and attributed to the larger W 5d orbitals and the overall negative charge of the dithiolate complexes. The recently solved AH X-ray crystal structure suggests the presence of a water molecule bonded to the metal and the possibility that catalysis occurs via a non-organometallic intermediate. Models of the truncated active site are used to analyze this claim by determining the relative energies of acetylene versus water coordination. Complexation of acetylene is favored over water by 12 kcal/mol with the aquo complex formation endergonic by 7 kcal/mol (ΔG). These resul...
A Conversation with Kenneth Waltz

Kenneth Waltz's books and articles have definitively shaped the study of international relations over the past fifty years. He developed a version of “Realist” thinking on the subject that has structured research in the entire field, for critics and supporters alike. On March 11, 2011, at his home in New York, he was interviewed by James Fearon, a member of the Editorial Committee of the Annual Review of Political Science. The conversation ranged over some of his best-known arguments and the relationships between them, his thinking about contemporary international politics, and issues in the field that he thinks are understudied relative to their importance. What follows is an edited transcript of that conversation. A video of the entire conversation is available online.
Prevalent mutations in prostate cancer

Quantitative and structural genetic alterations cause the development and progression of prostate cancer. A number of genes have been implicated in prostate cancer by genetic alterations and functional consequences of the genetic alterations. These include the ELAC2 (HPC2), MSR1, and RNASEL (HPC1) genes that have germline mutations in familial prostate cancer; AR, ATBF1, EPHB2 (ERK), KLF6, mitochondria DNA, p53, PTEN, and RAS that have somatic mutations in sporadic prostate cancer; AR, BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 (RAD53), CYP17, CYP1B1, CYP3A4, GSTM1, GSTP1, GSTT1, PON1, SRD5A2, and VDR that have germline genetic variants associated with either hereditary and/or sporadic prostate cancer; and ANXA7 (ANX7), KLF5, NKX3-1 (NKX3.1), CDKN1B (p27), and MYC that have genomic copy number changes affecting gene function. More genes relevant to prostate cancer remain to be identified in each of these gene groups. For the genes that have been identified, most need additional genetic, functional, and/or biochemical examination. Identification and characterization of these genes will be a key step for improving the detection and treatment of prostate cancer.
Monoclonal antibody to L-selectin attenuates neutrophil accumulation and protects ischemic reperfused cat myocardium.

BACKGROUND Interaction of CD11/CD18 located on neutrophil membranes with its endothelial counter-receptor, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, plays a major role in polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN)-mediated endothelial dysfunction and myocardial injury associated with ischemia and reperfusion. However, PMN-derived L-selectin, which is thought to play an early role in PMN rolling along the vascular endothelium, has not been studied in a setting of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, we evaluated the effects of a monoclonal antibody against L-selectin, DREG-200, in a feline model of myocardial ischemia (1.5 hours) and reperfusion (4.5 hours). DREG-200 (1 mg/kg) or an isotype-matched IgG1 antibody, MAb R3.1, which does not cross-react in cats, was administered as a bolus 10 minutes before reperfusion. In MAb R3.1-treated cats, myocardial ischemia followed by reperfusion resulted in significant coronary vascular endothelial dysfunction, elevated cardiac myeloperoxidase activity indicative of neutrophil accumulation in the ischemic myocardium, and severe myocardial injury. In contrast, administration of DREG-200 at 1 mg/kg significantly attenuated myocardial necrosis (14 +/- 4 versus 32 +/- 3 expressed as percentage of area at risk, P < .001) and attenuated coronary endothelial dysfunction (P < .01) associated with ischemia/reperfusion. Moreover, myeloperoxidase activity in the ischemic myocardium was significantly lower than MAb R3.1-treated cats (0.4 +/- 0.1 versus 0.9 +/- 0.2 U/100 mg tissue, P < .05). CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that blocking L-selectin with DREG-200 exerts a significant cardioprotective effect in a feline model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion, indicating that L-selectin plays a significant role in mediating PMN accumulation and PMN-induced endothelial and myocardial injury after ischemia and reperfusion.
Further considerations of stress concentration problems for twisted or sheared shallow spherical shells

Abstract We extend earlier studies of closed-form and asymptotic solutions of the problems of transverse twisting and membrane shearing of shallow spherical shells with small circular tractionfree holes or rigid inserts. Our first extension concerns a modified form of the relevant exact solution of the shell equations, so as to take advantage of the static-geometric duality property of linear shell theory. As a consequence we observe that the results for two of the four previously considered problems can be seen as the static-geometric duals of the other two. The second extension concerns the formulation of a general boundary value problem, with the problems of the hole and the rigid insert as special cases. Furthermore, on the basis of this formulation we find, as a particularly simple boundary value problem of physical interest, the problem of a hole the edge of which is transversely fixed. The asymptotic properties of the twisting and shearing solutions for this case are shown to be intermediate, in a specific sense, to the previously established order of magnitude properties for the free hole or rigid insert cases.
Modeling the output of a central pattern generator

Experimental analysis in our lab has provided a quantitative description of the spatiotemporal pattern of inhibitory synaptic input from the heartbeat central pattern generator (CPG) to segmental motor neurons that drive heartbeat in the medicinal leech. To begin the process of elucidating the relative roles of this pattern of input and motor neuron intrinsic properties and electrical coupling in the elaboration of the heartbeat fictive motor pattern, we constructed a conductance-based ensemble model of all the segmental heart motor neurons and their known synaptic inputs. Our focus was intersegmental and side-to-side coordination of the asymmetric motor pattern: motor neurons on one side fire nearly in synchrony (synchronous coordination), while on the other they fire in a rear-to-front progression (peristaltic coordination). The model reproduces the general trends of the two intersegmental phase relations among motor neurons, but the match with the living system is quantitatively poor, particularly for the peristaltic coordination mode where the phase progression among the segmental motor neurons in the model is only half that observed in the living system. Thus the realistic inputs (experimentally determined) do not produce similarly realistic output in our model. Modeling experiments, indicate that the most important determinant of the intersegmental and side-to-side phase relations among the heart motor neurons in the model was the spatiotemporal pattern of synaptic inputs, yet phasing was influenced by electrical coupling between the motor neurons in each segment, intersegmental conduction delays in the premotor interneurons, intra-burst synaptic plasticity, and intrinsic membrane currents of the motor neurons. Understanding the shortcomings of the model required that we establish experimentally the precise timing of motor neuron activity in each segment with respect to CPG activity. This analysis show quantitatively how motor neurons in the model fail to fire at the appropriate time with respect to their synaptic inputs and suggest that the intrinsic properties of the model motor neuron are simplistic.
Excision of benign pigmented skin tumours by deep shaving.

Abstract Benign pigmented skin tumours are frequently removed by shave excision. There is little information as to how often the method achieves a complete excision of the lesion and how often the full thickness of the dermis is removed. 43 benign pigmented skin tumours, on the trunk and proximal parts of the limbs, were removed by deep shaving and the shaved areas were then removed by elliptical excision. The shave excision achieved complete tumour removal in 72% of the lesions and did not divide the dermis to fat junction in 63%. Both objectives were achieved in 46%. Shave excision of these lesions may be preferable to elliptical excision in sites where the incidence of hypertrophic scarring is high, as preservation of some thickness of the dermis may result in a more acceptable scar.
3-Methyladenine-DNA glycosylase: a probe for determining alkylation damage and repair in human fibroblasts.

Abstract 3-Methyladenine-DNA glycosylase was partially purified from human lymphoblasts and used as an enzymatic probe to assay the amounts of 3-methyladenine in DNA from cultured human fibroblasts after treatment with dimethyl sulfate. Aside from this specific alkylation product, the total number of alkylated bases was estimated after depurination by heating. Both enzyme-induced and heat-induced apurinic sites were converted to strand breaks and estimated after alkaline sucrose-gradient sedimentation. The results indicate that 3-methyladenine in cultured human fibroblasts is rapidly excised, with a half-life of about 2 hours. The rest of the alkylated purines (mostly 7-methylguanine) are removed much more slowly, with a half-life of about 20 hours.
Evidence for an unidentified ACTH-induced steroid hormone causing hypertension.

The hypothesis that hyperaldosteronism is not the sole cause of hypertension in dexamethasone-suppressible hyperaldosteronism was tested in an 18-year-old male. After six years of little or no treatment, the hypertension and mild hyperaldosteronism were promptly decreased by a small dose of dexamethasone. During dexamethasone treatment, when aldosterone secretion was suppressed to less than normal and he was normotensive, steroids were given by constant infusion in an attempt to reproduce the hypertension of the dexamethasone-free state. Neither five days of aldosterone or 18-hydroxydesoxycorticosterone (18-OHDOC) at 1 mg/day, nor desoxycorticosterone (DOC) at 30 mg/day caused hypertension. However, sodium retention and potassium loss was observed during aldosterone and DOC infusion. Hypertension was produced within five days during infusion with ACTH or oral metyrapone. The hypertensive effect of the latter was abolished by addition of aminoglutethimide treatment. These studies suggest that a steroid oth...
Effect of inorganic constituent on nanomechanical and tribological properties of polymer, quasi-ceramic and hybrid coatings

Abstract This study investigates the variations in nanomechanical properties of coatings made of a pristine polymeric backbone and those containing silicone segments. Four different coatings with varying degrees of inorganic segments were prepared and analyzed. The four coatings were 1) a pure epoxy polymer coating, 2) a hybrid coating consisting of epoxy and silicone, 3) a ceramer coating consisting of organo-silicone and 4) a quasi-ceramic coating consisting of specialty silicone composition. The molecular bonding characteristics of the coatings were characterized with FTIR spectroscopy. The coatings were also tested using nanoindentation and nanoscratch methods to investigate mechanical and tribological properties. The scratched surface was investigated using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The hybrid coating displayed superior nanomechanical properties compared to the pure polymer coating, and the coating containing high silicone levels displayed better hardness. Atomic force microscopy showed that the epoxy-based polymer coating consisted of a smooth surface that was compressed when scratched using a nanoindenter. The hybrid coating had rough surface that was damaged and partially recovered after the scratch test. The ceramer and quasi-ceramic coatings displayed brittle failure.
Experiment archive, analysis, and visualization at the National Ignition Facility

Abstract The National Ignition Facility (NIF) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is the world's most energetic laser, providing a scientific research center to study inertial confinement fusion and matter at extreme energy densities and pressures. A target shot involves over 30 specialized diagnostics measuring critical x-ray, optical and nuclear phenomena to quantify ignition results for comparison with computational models. The Shot Analysis and Visualization System (SAVI) acquires and analyzes target diagnostic data for display within a time-budget of 30 min. Laser and target diagnostic data are automatically loaded into the NIF archive database through clustered software data collection agents. The SAVI Analysis Engine distributes signal and image processing tasks to a Linux cluster where computation is performed. Intermediate results are archived at each step of the analysis pipeline. Data is archived with metadata and pedigree. Experiment results are visualized through a web-based user interface in interactive dashboards tailored to single or multiple shot perspectives. The SAVI system integrates open-source software, commercial workflow tools, relational database and messaging technologies into a service-oriented and distributed software architecture that is highly parallel, scalable, and flexible. The architecture and functionality of the SAVI system will be presented along with examples.
Electrical conductivity of condensed molecular hydrogen in the giant planets

Theoretical interpretation of several phenomena concerning Jupiter and Saturn depends upon the electrical conductivity of molecular hydrogen which, according to present models, forms the outermost layer of both planets. The layer starts at the transition pressure between the metallic and the molecular form of hydrogen, that is around 1 Mbar, and extends to the outside limits of the atmosphere. Whether at the highest pressures (and temperatures) this layer is a solid or a dense fluid is not certain. In any case, the fluid is in supercritical condition so that there is only a gradual transition from dense liquid to a gaseous form. The two theories which require specific values of the conductivity of the condensed molecular hydrogen are those pertaining to the generation of a magnetic field in the liquid hydrogen rather than in the deep metallic interior (HIDE, 1967), and those concerned with the electromagnetic coupling and exchange of angular momentum between the liquid core and the solid molecular hydrogen mantle.
A lithographic approach of spatial separation for multiple types of layer-by-layer self-assembled nanoparticles

A lithographic approach is presented to pattern two types of nanoparticles on one 4 inch silicon wafer. The different nanoparticles are separated completely according to the designed pattern. The process is applicable to all types of nanoparticles, which may enable its application in complex device fabrication that requires more than one type of functional nanoparticles. The process is quite simple, consisting of only two consecutive lift-offs, and there is no high requirement for the equipments. 150 nm and 64 nm polystyrene particles were selected in the experiment as two different particles. A scanning electron microscope was used to observe the patterns comprised of two types of polystyrene nanoparticles.
Complementing search engines with online web mining agents

While search engines have become the major decision support tools for the Internet, there is a growing disparity between the image of the World Wide Web stored in search engine repositories and the actual dynamic, distributed nature of Web data. We propose to attack this problem using an adaptive population of intelligent agents mining the Web online at query time. We discuss the benefits and shortcomings of using dynamic search strategies versus the traditional static methods in which search and retrieval are disjoint. This paper presents a public Web intelligence tool called MySpiders, a threaded multiagent system designed for information discovery. The performance of the system is evaluated by comparing its effectiveness in locating recent, relevant documents with that of search engines. We present results suggesting that augmenting search engines with adaptive populations of intelligent search agents can lead to a significant competitive advantage. We also discuss some of the challenges of evaluating such a system on current Web data, introduce three novel metrics for this purpose, and outline some of the lessons learned in the process.
Poly(ethylene glycol)-mediated molar mass control of short-chain- and medium-chain-length poly(hydroxyalkanoates) from Pseudomonas oleovorans

Three strains of Pseudomonas oleovorans, a well known poly(hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA) producer, were tested for the ability to control PHA molar mass and end group structure by addition of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) to the fermentation medium. Each strain of P. oleovorans – NRRL B-14682 (B-14682), NRRL B-14683 (B-14683), and NRRL B-778 (B–778) – synthesized a different type of PHA from oleic acid when cultured under identical growth conditions. Strain B-14682 produced poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), while B-14683 synthesized a medium-chain-length PHA (mcl-PHA) with a repeat unit composition ranging from C4 to C14 and some mono-unsaturation in the C14 alkyl side chains. Strain B-778 synthesized a mixture of PHB (95 mol%) and mcl-PHA (5 mol%). The addition of 0.5% (v/v) PEG (Mn =200 g/mol, PEG-200) to the fermentation broth of strains B-14682 and B-778 resulted in chain termination through esterification at the carboxyl terminus of the PHB with PEG chain segments, thus reducing the molar mass by 54% and 23%, respectively. The molar mass of the mcl-PHA produced by strains B-14683 and B-778 also showed a 34% and 47% reduction in the presence of PEG-200, respectively, but no evidence of esterification was present. PEG-400 (Mn =400 g/mol) had a reduced effect on PHA molar mass. In fact, the molar masses of the mcl-PHA derived from strain B-14683 and both the PHB and mcl-PHA from B-778 were unchanged by PEG-400. In contrast, the PHB produced by B-14682 showed a 35% reduction in molar mass in the presence of PEG-400.
Development of Dissolved Hydrogen Sensors Based on Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Solid Electrolyte with Noble Metal Electrodes

A hydrogen sensor has been developed for in situ measurements of the concentration of hydrogen in aqueous solutions at elevated temperatures. The sensor was based on an electrochemical cell employing an yttria-stabilized zirconia (9% Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}) solid electrolyte, a Ag-O{sub 2} (in air) reference electrode, and a noble metal working electrode (Pt or Pd) covered with a polytetrafluorene-ethyl membrane. The response of the sensor to hydrogen has been examined in gas mixtures and aqueous solutions at temperatures as high as 300 C, and for hydrogen concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 100% or 7.61 {times} 10{sup {minus}6} to 7.61 {times} 10{sup {minus}4} mol/kg, respectively. The sensor displayed rapid responses to changes in concentration of hydrogen in both gas mixtures and aqueous solutions. Linear relationships with Nernstian slopes (2.303RT/2F) were observed between the measured potential of the sensor and the logarithm of the hydrogen concentration. Oxygen in solution had little effect on the potential of the sensor when the concentration of oxygen was lower than that of hydrogen, while there was a significant change in the potential with oxygen concentration in gas mixtures. The potential of the sensor was not affected by the pH of the solution.
Approximations of excitation threshold in modeling nerve stimulation

A simplified model for relative excitation thresholds of cylindrical excitable fibers in response to external electrical stimulation is presented. The approach is based on the induced transmembrane potential of target fibers and includes their "characteristic lengths," thereby accounting for different fiber diameters and the "net driving force" from neighboring fiber segments.
Architectural effects on the stability limits ofABC block copolymers

The random phase approximation has been used to extend the Leibler theory for the stability limit of a homogeneous melt of A-B diblock copolymers to examine the onset of microphase and macrophase separation in a variety of ABC block copolymer systems. The stability limit is located by the divergence of the collective structure factor of the melt. We introduce and analyze three models for ABC block copolymers: linear triblocks, random comb copolymers where a fixed number of A and B teeth are placed randomly along a C backbone, and statistical comb copolymers, with A or B teeth spaced regularly, but with sequences constructed using a two parameter Markov process. We compute order-disorder stability boundaries for the segregation strength parameter XAB N at threshold as a function of XAC N, XBC N, composition, and other model parameters, and compare the results for the three different architectural models. An interesting reentrant order-disorder transition is located in several model phase diagrams, and is associated with a peculiar situation in which more incompatibility causes less segregation. In the case of statistical combs, macrophase separation into two liquid phases can be favored over microphase separation.
Risk Communication and Social Choices: The Discussion Heats Up

Environmental Hazards: Communicating Risks as a Social Process Sheldon Krimsky and Alonzo Plough Dover, MA: Auburn House Publishing Co.
On the transition from short-range diffusion-limited to collision-limited growth in alloy solidification

Abstract Short-range diffusion-limited growth, collision-limited growth, and the transition between the two regimes are explained as natural consequences of a single model for the kinetics of alloy solidification. Analytical expressions are developed for the velocity-undercooling function of a planar interface during dilute alloy solidification, using Turnbull's collision-limited growth model and the Continuous Growth Solute Trapping Model of Aziz and Kaplan both with and without a solute drag effect. The interface mobility, −dv/dT, is shown to be very high (proportional to the speed of sound) if the alloy is sufficiently dilute or if the growth rate is sufficiently rapid for nearly complete solute trapping. The interface mobility is reduced by about three orders of magnitude (becoming proportional to the diffusive speed) at intermediate growth rates where partial solute trapping occurs. Differences in low velocity predictions of the models with and without solute drag are also discussed. Comparison of the results of the analytical expressions to numerical solutions of the non-dilute kinetic model for AlBe alloys shows that the dilute approximation breaks down at melt compositions on the order of 10 at.%. Similar variations in the interface mobility are shown for the disorder-trapping model of Boettinger and Aziz.
Differential attention in the treatment of astasia-abasia

Abstract A 62-yr-old woman with a 16-yr history of astasia-abasia was treated by means of the differential treatment technique. Generalization of treatment effects from hospital to home was achieved through family therapy. This study is a systematic replication of earlier work and is the first report of this intervention with an elderly patient, treated by a first year psychiatry resident receiving his first behavior therapy supervision on a psychodynamically oriented inpatient unit. Follow-up 10 months after discharge revealed no symptom return or substitution.
Male/Female Differences in Mathematical Ability: A Function of Biological Sex or Perceived Gender Role?

The effects of sex referents in test items and subjects' perceived gender roles were assessed in an attempt to explain sex differences in mathematics performance. The arithmetic subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) was administered to 50 male and 145 female college students. Test items were experimentally manipulated so that their orientation was either masculine, feminine, or neutral. Participants were randomly assigned to each group. No significant differences in performance were found. The Bern Sex-role Inventory was used to classify subjects as either masculine, androgynous, or undifferentiated. Irrespective of biological sex, masculine-oriented subjects performed significantly better on the WAIS arithmetic subtest than feminine oriented subjects. No other significant differences were noted. It was concluded that, for adults, personality variables appear to be a more salient factor than biological sex in explaining differences in basic mathematical skill performance.
Simulations of deep level related lock-on conductivity in SiC diodes subject to ultrafast, high voltage reverse biasing pulses

Numerical simulations of the transient response of reverse biased silicon carbide (SiC) diodes to fast voltage pulses have been performed. The results obtained reveal that 'deep-defects' can lead to high device currents and persistent conductivity, in keeping with experimental observations. The presence of such levels would be potentially detrimental to device stability.
Risk of subsequent primary thyroid cancer after another malignancy: latency trends in a population-based study.

Purpose To evaluate the risk of a subsequent primary thyroid cancer (SPTC) in patients with common invasive cancers, with attention to latency trends and histology associations.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylase Induction in Human Leukocytes

A method for determining aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase induction in human leukocytes is described. Leukocytes from healthy volunteers were cultured in the presence of phytohemagglutinin, a mitogen. Addition of 3-methylcholanthrene to 72-hour cultures induced a fourfold increase in aryl hydroxylase activity. In the absence of a mitogenic agent, 3-methylcholanthrene stimulation of increased enzymatic activity did not occur.
Ecology and behaviour of the Jaguar (Panthers onca) in Belize, Central America

Five adult male Jaguars and a translocated subadult female Jaguar were captured and followed by radio-telemetry in Cockscomb Basin, Belize. One adult male Jaguar, two resident female Jaguars, and a Puma were followed only by their tracks. Radio-collared males maintained overlapping ranges of 28–40 km2, while resident females moved in minimum areas of 10 km2 within the ranges of individual males. Despite range overlap, evidence of aggression or sign of more than one large cat in the same area simultaneously was uncommon. Such avoidance behaviour suggested some means of communication. Visual marking in the form of faeces and scrapes were found uncovered along roads and trails in areas of overlap between the cats; such marking could have helped in boundary delineation as well as spatial and temporal positioning. Males often remained in small areas of 2·5 km2 for up to two weeks, a behaviour made possible by abundant prey. This behaviour may have facilitated avoidance with other Jaguars. Faecal analysis indicated opportunistic feeding on 17 prey species. Armadillo, Paca and brocket deer accounted for 94% of the available terrestrial prey and comprised 70% of the identified prey in the faeces. All Jaguars were primarily nocturnal, though activity varied between animals. The translocated female showed changes in activity patterns when feeding upon cattle. At least one Puma travelled within the ranges of several male Jaguars and appeared to be feeding on smaller prey items. The behavioural and ecological plasticity exhibited by the Jaguars in this study is beneficial for an animal whose habitat is rapidly diminishing.
Developmental discontinuities in childhood and adolescence

Cognitive-developmental discontinuities seem to occur during several periods in childhood and adolescence-at 4 to 5, 6 to 7, 10 to 12, and 14 to 16 years.
Incorporation of 5,10,15 14C-farnesol pyrophosphate into Phycomyces carotenoids.

CELL-FREE extracts of Phycomyces blakesleeanus incorporate farnesol pyrophosphate labelled with carbon-14 into non-saponifiable lipids. Separation of these compounds on magnesium oxide-‘Hyflo-Supercel’ columns demonstrate that the carbon-14 is associated with crystalline β-carotene, purified ergosterol and fractions containing phytoene, phytofluene and lycopene. It has been reported several times that a great portion of the activity associated with the non-saponifiable compounds is lost on recrystallization1. As a consequence, the separated saturated fractions in this experiment are indicative only.
Spectrum and eigenfunctions of the Frobenius-Perron operator of the tent map

The spectrum and eigenfunctions of the Frobenius-Perron operator induced by the tent map are discussed in detail. Special attention is paid to the case where the critical point of the map lies on an aperiodic trajectory and the differences from maps with a periodic critical trajectory are stressed. It is shown that the relevant eigenvalues of the spectrum are not sensitive to the aperiodicity of the critical trajectory. All other parts of the spectrum and all eigenfunctions in particular are changed drastically if the critical trajectory becomes aperiodic. The intimate connection between the point spectrum and the kneading invariant is established and the critical slowing down as well as the band splitting are a consequence of its properties. The structure of the infinite sequence of null spaces and its implications on the spectrum of the operator are discussed. It is shown that any initial distributionP(0,x) of bounded variation can be projected uniquely onto the eigenfunctions of the relevant eigenvalues and that the time dependence ofP(n, x) is determined by this expansion up to an errorO(ηn). From this the stationary and the asymptotic behavior of the correlation function 〈x(n) x〉 can be derived exactly.