cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A joint framework for modeling freight mode and destination choice: Application to the US commodity flow survey data

Abstract Earlier research has extensively examined freight mode and shipment weight dimensions. However, freight destination behavior at a high resolution has received scant attention. In our study, we attempt to address the limited research on destination decision processes and develop a latent segmentation-based approach that accommodates mode and destination choices in a unified framework. The proposed approach postulates that these two choices are actually sequential in nature with an infinitesimally small time gap between them. However, the actual sequence (mode-destination or destination-mode) is unknown to us. Thus, a probabilistic model that can accommodate for the two choice sequences within a single framework is proposed. The latent segmentation framework probabilistically assigns the decision maker to the two sequences. In the Mode first – Destination second (MD) sequence, the destination choice model is calibrated with choice alternatives customized to the chosen mode. In the Destination first – Mode second (DM) sequence, the destination model is calibrated without any mode information as mode is unknown to the decision maker. In the study, we used 2012 US Commodity Flow Survey (CFS) data. We found that the latent segmentation-based sequence model outperformed the independent sequence models (MD and DM). The validation exercise also confirmed the superiority of the proposed framework. Finally, an elasticity analysis is conducted to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model system.
Inhomogeneous aging of cathode materials in commercial 18650 lithium ion battery cells

Abstract To understand the relationships among first life use case, battery state of health, and end-of-life condition, the materials in commercial 18650 Li-ion cells were aged using prolonged cycling under different conditions and subsequently harvested and analyzed. In particular, different charge termination protocols and temperatures were applied to potential-limited galvanostatic cycling over 1000 cycles. Relationships between observed aging phenomenon and cycling conditions were explored at the cell and cathode materials level. We noted area-specific inhomogeneities in cathode cycled under constant current charge protocol at 25 °C while such inhomogeneity was not observed in three other conditions. The mechanism behind the cathode inhomogeneity was discussed in the context of uneven growth of a secondary solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on the anode surface occuring during constant-current charge protocol at 25 °C.
Drug Court Recidivism in the Rural Midwest: A 3-Year Post-Separation Analysis:

Substance abuse continues to be a pressing social problem in the United States today. As the country battles an opioid epidemic, many jurisdictions have adopted the problem-solving court model in r...
The Experience of Being Fathered of Mexican-origin Male Youth:

Fathers are important influences for the healthy development during the transition to adulthood of their children. Despite the theoretical acknowledgement of the reciprocal nature of the father–chi...
β3 Integrin-Mediated Fibrin Clot Retraction by Nucleated Cells: Differing Behavior of αIIbβ3 and αvβ3

Fibrin clot retraction may be important in resolution of thrombi and, in platelets, is mediated by integrin α IIb β3 (GPIIb-IIIa). Nucleated cells that lack α IIb β3 can retract fibrin clots, and we now report that integrin α v β 3 can support this process. In addition, we compared the capacities of recombinant β 3 integrins to mediate clot retraction in Chinese hamster ovary and M21 melanoma cells. We found that α v β 3 , but not a IIb β 3 , could spontaneously support retraction. Transferring the cytoplasmic domain of α v to α IIb enabled the resulting chimeric α IIb β 3 to support clot retraction. The capacity of the α v cytoplasmic domain to support clot retraction was not caused by activation of the ligand binding function of α IIb β 3 or by enhancement of α IIb β 3 's capacity to stimulate the formation of focal adhesions or the tyrosine phosphorylation of pp125 FAK . These experiments define requirements for α IIb β 3 -mediatind clot retraction, establish the capacity of α v β 3 to mediate this process, and suggest differing functional roles of the α v and α IIb cytoplasmic domains.
Learning to Forecast Dynamical Systems from Streaming Data.

Kernel analog forecasting (KAF) is a powerful methodology for data-driven, non-parametric forecasting of dynamically generated time series data. This approach has a rigorous foundation in Koopman operator theory and it produces good forecasts in practice, but it suffers from the heavy computational costs common to kernel methods. This paper proposes a streaming algorithm for KAF that only requires a single pass over the training data. This algorithm dramatically reduces the costs of training and prediction without sacrificing forecasting skill. Computational experiments demonstrate that the streaming KAF method can successfully forecast several classes of dynamical systems (periodic, quasi-periodic, and chaotic) in both data-scarce and data-rich regimes. The overall methodology may have wider interest as a new template for streaming kernel regression.
A $p$-Adic Characterization of the Periodic Points of a Class of Collatz-Type Maps on the Integers

Fix an integer $\varrho\geq2$. We consider maps $H:\mathbb{Z}\rightarrow\mathbb{Z}$ so that for any $n\in\mathbb{Z}$, the value of $H\left(n\right)$ is the image of one of \varrho distinct affine-linear maps, the choice of which is determined by the value of $n$ mod $\varrho$; these maps generalize the infamous Collatz or $3x+1$ map. This paper introduces a $p$-adic formalism for studying the sets of periodic points of $H$, applicable to the case where $H$ is the Collatz map, as well as a large family of generalizations thereof. When applicable, this approach yields a function $\chi_{H}:\mathbb{Z}_{\varrho}\rightarrow\mathbb{Z}_{q}$ (where $q$ is an integer $\geq2$ associated to $H$ and where $q$ is an integer depending on $H$) with the property that every element of $\chi_{H}\left(\mathbb{Z}_{\varrho}\right)\cap\mathbb{Z}$ is a periodic point of $\chi_{H}$, and that every cycle of $H$ of length $\geq2$ contains an element of $\chi_{H}\left(\mathbb{Z}_{\varrho}\right)\cap\mathbb{Z}$. The $\chi_{H}$ formalism simplifies, unifies, and generalizes previous work by other authors on Collatz-type maps (both old and recent), and establishes a foundation for future work on the periodic points of Collatz-type maps using methods of $p$-adic Fourier analysis, Complex analysis, and Probability theory.
Internal Load Distribution Effects During Fatigue Loading of Composite Laminates

Two fundamental processes govern the reduction of strength and stiffness of composite laminates caused by cyclic loading, commonly called the "fatigue effect." One process is the reduction of the strength and stiffness ofthe individual constituent materials in the composite, caused by events such as localized nonconservative deformation, microcrack formation, and substructure variations. This process is essentially the source of the "fatigue effect" homogeneous materials, except that macrocrack formation and fracture dominated by a single crack generally does not occur as a consequence of this process in composite materials. In laminated composites there is another fundamental process which plays a major role in determining residual properties. That process is the damage-dependent redistribution of load sharing among the plies of the laminate caused by the continuous variation of the elastic stiffness properties of each ply induced by microdamage development in those plies. Experience suggests that this process is critical and, in some cases, dominant in the determination of the residual strength and life of a laminate under cyclic loading. This paper addresses the experimental and analytical aspects of this fundamental process. The results of the present work indicate that strain (and stress) redistributions in regions of highly localized damage are large and significant. The general nature of these redistributions has been established, which provides the first firm foundation for the formulation of the philosophy needed to interpret these physical damage states in terms of residual strength and life.
Analysis of Usage Patterns in Large Multimedia Websites

User behavior in a website is a critical indicator of the web site’s usability and success. Therefore an understanding of usage patterns is essential to website design optimization. In this context, large multimedia websites pose a significant challenge for comprehension of the complex and diverse user behaviors they sustain. This is due to the complexity of analyzing and understanding user-data interactions in media-rich contexts. In this chapter we present a novel multi-perspective approach for usability analysis of large media rich websites. Our research combines multimedia web content analysis with elements of web-log analysis and visualization/visual mining of web usage metadata. Multimedia content analysis allows direct estimation of the information-cues presented to a user by the web content. Analysis of web logs and usage-metadata, such as location, type, and frequency of interactions provides a complimentary perspective on the site’s usage. The entire set of information is leveraged through powerful visualization and interactive querying techniques to provide analysis of usage patterns, measure of design quality, as well as the ability to rapidly identify problems in the web-site design. Experiments on media rich sites including the SkyServer – a large multimedia web-based astronomy information repository demonstrate the efficacy and promise of the proposed approach.
An Overhead Specimen Handling System for Variable Workloads

This unique overhead specimen handling system requires virtually no floor space and only a minimal amount of bench space. It uses state-of-the-art conveyors suspended near the ceiling to transport, log-in and sort blood specimens in standard specimen containers. Specimens placed into the system at bench-level bins are automatically singulated and loaded onto cleated conveyors and lifted to the main conveyor belt near the ceiling. The barcoded labels are then read as the containers are rotated under an optical scanner. The specimens are then diverted to the appropriate branch conveyor and lowered back to the bench level by cleated conveyors. The specimen handling system is rapid and accurate, requires no special containers, allows laboratorians to move unimpeded below it, and is inexpensive by automation standards. Studies show no adverse effect upon the specimens.
Comparative study of different technology of mechanical decap to check excess solder issue — Conventional versus new approaches

Mechanical decapsulation is a method of removing mold compound material from a packaged electronic device of the type encapsulated with a protective material that forms an outer surface of the device [1]. Though wet decapsulation is certainly the most common method, it is not appropriate for all types of semiconductor failure analysis. Contaminants on the surface and side of the semiconductor die can be washed away by the acids and solvents; if the contaminants had no secondary effect (for example, corrosion of the traces on the IC and solder remelt traces on the side wall of the die). Thus, there will be no remaining clue as to the root cause of failure on the device. Different decapsulation approach is necessary which is for this case, mechanical decapsulation much more appropriate approach to be used [2]. This paper aims to describe and compare conventional mechanical decapsulation and new approaches of mechanical decapsulation to check solder remelt mechanism on the die side wall.
Getting a More Precise Grip on the Physical World

FUNDAMENTAL CONSTANTSLast summer, the latest official set of values of the fundamental physical constants was posted on the Web site of the National Institute of Standards and Technology ([physics.nist.gov/constants][1]). In many cases, these new constants are more accurate by a factor of 10, say researchers. Behind those simple numbers lies ground-breaking technology combined with the amazing skill of experimenters around the world who spend their working lives teasing out increasingly refined values of the constants. [1]: http://physics.nist.gov/constants
Effects of strength vs. endurance exercise on myocardial function and remodeling (1154.8)

Effects of strength vs. endurance training on myocardial function and remodeling in post-MI rats Michael A. Garza, Emily A. Wason, John Q. Zhang, Department of Health and Kinesiology, The University of Texas at San Antonio TX After Myocardial Infarction (MI), increased plasma volume (PV) attributes to the progressive decline in cardiac function by exacerbating left ventricular (LV) dilation; however, compelling evidence suggests that endurance exercise training, despite eliciting a marked increase in PV, beneficially preserves post-MI cardiac function. Contrarily, strength exercise training, which promotes concentric myocardial hypertrophy and has no effect on PV, may be more therapeutic in post-MI applications; therefore, we investigated for the first time the effects of strength vs. endurance exercise training on myocardial function and remodeling in post-MI rats. MI was surgically induced on 7-wk-old Sprague-Dawley rats by ligation of the coronary artery. The survivors were assigned to 4 groups (n=8/gr...
Bassariscus from the Early Pliocene of Washington

Abstract Fossils of Bassariscus, the ringtail (Carnivora, Procyonidae) are reported and described from the early Pliocene White Bluffs Local Fauna of the Ringold Formation, central Washington. The specimens, assigned to Bassariscus astutus, are larger than Miocene species of Bassariscus but show no apparent difference in size or dental characters from the living species B. astutus. The locality lies outside the geographical range of modern B. astutus and adds to evidence of less-extreme winter climate in the area during the early Pliocene.
The Accuracy of Approximate Solutions in the Analysis of Fracture of Composites

This paper concerns the accuracy of three related mathematical models (developed by Hedgepeth, Eringen and Sendeckyj and Jones), used in the stress analysis and in fracture studies of continuous fiber composites. These models have particular application in the investigation of fiber and matrix stresses in unidirectional composites in the region near a crack tip. The interest in such models is motivated by the desire to be able to simplify the equations of elasticity to the point that they can be solved in a relatively easy manner.
Assessment and Physiology of Burns

Burn injuries are one of the most devastating forms of trauma worldwide. Not only do burn injuries affect almost all organ systems, the long-term sequelae of burns are significant and can be debilitating. Rapid, accurate assessment and prompt response to burns are keys to minimizing morbidity and mortality. The treatment of burn patients requires the presence of a well-organized team of caregivers who understand the complex consequences of burn injuries and who are adept at coordinating care. All of this begins with understanding the types of burns that can occur, being able to classify burns, and applying the principles of ATLS to burn patients. Beyond this, a keen understanding on the evolving physiological changes that result from the injury helps to guide therapy, intraoperative management, and recovery and rehabilitation in these patients.
Practical-theoritical argumentation

This essay explores the dialectics of theory and practice in terms of argumentation theory. Adapting Jonsen and Toulmin's (1988) notion of a Theory-Practice spectrum, it conceives Theory and Practice as extreme ends of a continuum and discourses as falling at various points along the continuum. Every theoritical discourse has essential practical aspects, and every practical discourse has essential theoretical aspects. Practices are theorized to varying degrees but every practice is thorized to some degree. Reflective discourse, which is discourse about practice, moves to and fro along the Theory-Practice continuum. Reflective discourse involves argumentation. Practical argumentation connects theory to practice; it appeals to general warrants, which may be simple or may tap into elaborate conceptual structures, in order to establish grounds for practical judgments. A practical discipline is a relatively coherent intellectual-professional enterprise that cultivates a field of social practice by engaging within itself and with practitioners in a reflective discourse. The argumentation of a practical discipline, like ordinary practical reflection, moves to and fro along the Theory-Practice continuum but in more methodical steps informed by systematic methodological reflection on the reflective process itself.
Quantitative Absorption spectra via photoacoustic phase angle spectroscopy (ΦAS)

Abstract By measuring the phase angle of the photoacoustic signal it is possible to calculate the quantitative absorption spectrum of a condensed phase sample, if in addition only the sample thermal diffusivity is known. The technique also extends the upper limit of absorptivity which may be usefully studied photoacoustically by a factor of 10.
Behavioral couple therapy: A new beginning

In this article, I describe an integrative approach to couple therapy developed with Andrew Christensen. After summarizing the empirical findings which justify the need for clinical innovation, the basic principles underlying the new integration are delineated. The new dimension of Behavioral Couple Therapy is the addition of strategies to promote “acceptance of partner”; the acceptance work balances the traditional behavioral emphasis on “change” in the form of accommodation, compromise and collaboration. After outlining the basic strategies for promoting acceptance, I interpret this work from a behavioral perspective, and explain why it is not useful to conceptualize acceptance from a cognitive perspective. Finally, I place this focus on acceptance within a broader context, as a growing and vital movement within behavior therapy.
Challenges in breeding for yield increase for drought

Crop genetic improvement for environmental stress at the molecular and physiological level is very complex and challenging. Unlike the example of the current major commercial transgenic crops for which biotic stress tolerance is based on chemicals alien to plants, the complex, redundant and homeostatic molecular and physiological systems existing in plants must be altered for drought tolerance improvement. Sophisticated tools must be developed to monitor phenotype expression at the crop level to characterize variation among genotypes across a range of environments. Once stress-tolerant cultivars are developed, regional probability distributions describing yield response across years will be necessary. This information can then aid in identifying environmental conditions for positive and negative responses to genetic modification to guide farmer selection of stress-tolerant cultivars.
ATRIOVENTRICULAR VALVE INSUFFICIENCY ASSOCIATED WITH CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE DETECTED IN UTERO USING COMBINED 2D ECHO/DOPPLER ULTRASOUND

Little is known about the effects of atrioventricular valve insufficiency (AVVI) in utero in association with congenital heart disease. Using an ATL ultrasound system with a 3 MHz range-gated pulsed Doppler (PD) transducer we found 3 of 114 fetuses had AVVI. The atria were insonated using the 2D echocardiographic image as a guide for position. The mother of one fetus, gestational age (GA) of 20 weeks, had received high dosage lithium during early pregnancy. Tricuspid insufficiency was associated with Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve. Serial studies showed nonimmune fetal hydrops (NIH) developed at 34 weeks GA. Labor was induced but the fetus died from low cardiac output and blood pressure after delivery. At postmortem the diagnosis was confirmed. A second fetus, 36 weeks GA, was referred for examination because of bradycardia. The 2D echocardiogram showed an atrioventricular canal defect. NIH was present. PD showed insufficiency of the common atrioventricular valve. Following induction of labor and delivery, low cardiac output and blood pressure persisted despite medication and the infant died. In a 23 week twin pregnancy, one fetus had NIH. 2D echo showed this fetus to have pulmonary atresia with a normally developed right ventricle. Tricuspid insufficiency was found by PD. The pregnancy terminated spontaneously. AVVI in the presence of congenital heart disease has a poor prognosis. Associated NIH may make the prognosis even worse and reflect in utero cardiac failure.
Factors Affecting Feeding Behavior and Survival of Juvenile Lake Trout in the Great Lakes

Abstract We explored the importance of experience with feeding on live prey, of cataracts, of strain, and of maternally transferred contaminants for the feeding rate and predator avoidance behavior of young lake trout Salvelinus namaycush. Hatchery-reared and feral juvenile lake trout were tested separately as predators on lake trout fry in tanks with artificial cobble reefs. Feral fish captured more prey per day and more prey per strike than did hatchery lake trout. The predatory performance of hatchery and feral fish did not improve significantly with experience. Feeding rates did not differ between lake trout with unilateral cataracts and normal-eyed fish, but significantly diminished for lake trout with bilateral cataracts. Neither strain nor contaminant background affected the ability of fry to feed or to avoid predators. Of the factors studied, previous experience with live food under natural conditions (i.e., the experience of feral fish) was the most important factor affecting feeding behavior of ...
A noninvasive optical probe for breast cancer: diagnostic use of acoustically induced blood stasis

Ultrasound-induced blood stasis was demonstrated thirty years ago. Most of the literature has been focused on methods employed to prevent stasis from occurring during ultrasound imaging. The current work discusses some of the theory behind this phenomenon. It also demonstrates ultrasound-induced blood stasis in murine tumor and muscle tissue, observed through noninvasive measurements of optical spectroscopy, and discusses possible diagnostic uses. We demonstrate that, using optical spectroscopy, effects of ultrasound can be used to noninvasively differentiate tumor from muscle tissue in mice, and that we can quantitatively differentiate tumor from muscle with maximum specificity 0.83, maximum sensitivity 0.79, and area under ROC curve 0.90, using a simple algorithm.
Ribonuclease P catalysis differs from ribosomal RNA self-splicing

Two RNA-catalyzed reactions have been described, the Tetrahymena self-splicing ribosomal RNA and ribonuclease P. The Tetrahymena self-splicing reaction proceeds through a transesterification cascade that is dependent upon nucleophilic attacks by ribose 3'-OH groups. Periodate oxidation of the catalytic (or substrate) RNA, which destroys the nucleophilicity of RNA 3' termini, did not inhibit ribonuclease P activity. Thus, catalysis by ribonuclease P differs from the self-splicing reaction.
Model Reaction Study on the Interaction between the Inorganic and Organic Phases in Drying Oil Based Ceramer Coatings

Metal−oxo carboxylates containing unsaturated fatty acids were used to model the interaction between drying oils and sol−gel precursors in inorganic/organic coatings. The metal carboxylates were prepared by reacting titanium isopropoxide [Ti(O-i-Pr)4] with linolenic and oleic acids. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Fourier transform Raman (FT-Raman) spectroscopy were used to investigate the bond formation between Ti(O-i-Pr)4 and free fatty acids. The 13C NMR and FT-IR spectra indicate the metal carboxylates are complex mixtures of bidentate chelating, bridging, and metal−oxo bridging clusters. The incorporation of unsaturated metal carboxylates in linseed oil coatings increased the glass transition temperature to 49 °C and increased the cross-link density to 1.41 × 10-3 mol/cm3.
The impact of out-migration on the inter-generational support and psychological wellbeing of older adults in rural China.

This paper examines the impact of the out-migration of adult children on older parents' inter-generational support and psychological wellbeing in rural China. The sample comprised 1,237 older Chinese people aged 60 or more years in the rural province of Anhui, China, who completed baseline and follow-up questionnaires in 2001 and 2003, respectively. The differences between older parents with and without migrant children in 2001 in their support and psychological wellbeing in 2003 were examined using independent t-tests, as were changes over the two years in support and wellbeing. Multiple regression models were used to examine the impact of baseline out-migration on the psychological wellbeing of older parents at follow-up. The results showed that, compared to parents without migrant children in 2001, the parents of migrants had significantly more monetary support, less instrumental support, and a lower level of depression in 2003. Such differences may be attributed to different support resources and health status, but the regressions revealed that when the positive effect of inter-generational support was taken into account, older parents with more migrant children tended to have significantly more depression and lower life satisfaction. The findings point to the importance of continued inter-generational support after out-migration in maintaining parental wellbeing.
Visualization of molecular interactions by fluorescence complementation

The visualization of protein complexes in living cells enables the examination of protein interactions in their normal environment and the determination of their subcellular localization. The bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay has been used to visualize interactions among multiple proteins in many cell types and organisms. Modified forms of this assay have been used to visualize the competition between alternative interaction partners and the covalent modification of proteins by ubiquitin-family peptides.
Infusing social science into cybersecurity education

Cybersecurity, while definitively categorized as a sub-discipline of computing, is widely considered multidisciplinary in nature. This paper documents two attempts to adopt non-computing ideas and approaches in undergraduate cybersecurity courses for information technology majors. Specifically, the author uses the social sciences (criminal justice and political science) to elicit a deeper understanding of cybersecurity problems and to present interdisciplinary methodological approaches to students who, in their careers, will be tasked with defending against cyberthreats.
Molecular structure of nitrogen trichloride as determined by electron diffraction

Abstract Nitrogen trichloride was found to have a bond length of r g = 1.759 ± 0.002 A and a Cl-N-Cl angle of 107.1 ± 0.5°. The bond angle is larger than that found in NF 3 , consistent with the (recently revised) trends displayed by the trihalides of phosphorus and arsenic, but much lower than the 120° angle reported for the isoelectronic molecule N(SiH 3 ) 3 . Moreover, a comparison between selected compounds reveals that the N-Cl bond length is appreciably greater, relatively, than the N-Si bond length. Accordingly, the bond angles and bond lengths suggest a greater reluctance of the nitrogen lone pairs to delocalize onto Cl than onto SiH 3 groups. Mean amplitudes of vibration of NCl 3 were derived both from the diffraction data and from recently published infrared and Raman frequencies. The values agree within the estimated uncertainties.
Response to Comments by Post and Stern on Article “Toxicity and Carcinogenicity of Chromium Compounds in Humans”

We appreciate the comments of Post and Stern, who work for a state regulatory agency that has minimized the hazards of chromate by ingestion. They are correct in pointing out that we did not specif...
Bioinformatics for microbial genotyping of equine encephalitis viruses, orthopoxviruses, and hantaviruses ☆

Microbial genotyping is essential for forensic discrimination of pathogen strains, tracing epidemics, and understanding evolutionary processes. Phylogenetic analyses were performed and genotyping assays designed for five viral species complexes or genera: Western, Eastern, and Venezuelan equine encephalitis viruses, hantavirus segments L, M, and S, and orthopoxviruses. For each group, sequence alignments and phylogenetic trees were built. PCR signatures composed of primer pairs or TaqMan™ triplets were designed and mapped to nodes of the trees for sub-type or strain specific PCR-based identification. In addition, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified and mapped to trees, and SNP microarray probes were designed to enable highly multiplexed genotyping of an unsequenced sample by hybridization. SNP-based trees corresponded well with MSA trees. Near-perfect isolate resolution was possible for all viruses analyzed computationally using either SNPs or PCR signatures. More tree nodes were represented by SNP loci than by PCR signatures, as PCR signatures often represented subsets of strains not corresponding to a branch. However, while PCR genotyping is possible, the number of PCR signatures needed to characterize an unknown can be very large. SNP microarrays are a suitable alternative, as arrays enable highly multiplexed, high resolution genotyping of an unknown in a single hybridization assay.
A System for Laboratory Rearing of the Mysid, Mysidopsis bahia Molenock

Abstract Toxicity testing with Mysidopsis bahia is often hampered by difficulties related to laboratory rearing and holding conditions. The rearing method reported here establishes an artificial community in a recirculating system. This system can support a standing stock of gravid females able to produce juveniles less than 24 hours old in sufficient numbers for toxicity testing. During 12 months of continuous operation, a population starting with about 500 adults produced over 5000 mysids. Continuous counting of the population has established that a mean ratio of 2:1 exists for adults to juveniles. Maintenance of the system is relatively easy. A solenoid-activated feeder limits cannibalism on post larvae when the system is left unattended for more than a day. It was observed that fluctuations in population size grew smaller as the method was refined.
Column: Nanostructured Materials

The field of nanostructured materials continues to be a very exciting area, with new materials, constructions, equipment, and intermaterial competition. As one would expect, there are also many new books in this field. I recently had the opportunity to review two new books that I want to bring to the attention of the readers of this column.
A far-ultraviolet photometer for planetary surface analysis

The measurement of local variations in the far-ultraviolet albedo is explored as a means of detecting changes in the refractive index of rocks and dust on the surface of atmosphereless planets and satellites. Far-ultraviolet spectrophotometric measurements of the lunar surface, which were obtained on the Apollo 17 orbital mission, are presented to demonstrate that significant albedo variations occur in the spectral range 120 to 170 nm. These data also confirm the hypothesis that the albedo variations represent refractive-index differences in the surface materials. A three-band photometer is described which, when put in orbit around a solar system object, is capable of providing refractive-index maps with a sensitivity of one part in the second decimal place and with kilometer resolution. Comparative surface-composition and surface-history analyses based on such maps are discussed.
Peeling Lead Paint Turns Into Poisonous Dust. Guess Where It Ends Up? A Media Campaign to Prevent Childhood Lead Poisoning in New York City

Successful public health media campaigns promote messages, increase awareness, engage the public, and encourage behavior change. Between 2004 and 2006, the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene conducted a media campaign grounded in social learning theory and the social marketing model to increase parents' awareness of childhood lead poisoning, ways to protect their children, and property owners' legal responsibility to fix peeling lead paint safely, and increase awareness of regulatory changes and encourage enforcement of New York City's Local Law 1 of 2004. Campaign materials were focus group tested and the campaign was refined annually. The campaign ran city-wide and in targeted high-risk neighborhoods. Neighborhoods and media venue (bus, train, kiosk, and store) changed annually, based on population risk factors and venue availability. Exposure to the campaign, campaign-related knowledge, and behavior were assessed using pre- and postcampaign street intercept surveys. Results showed that campaign reached the targeted population, and had an impact on knowledge of lead poisoning prevention measures as evidenced by increased knowledge of lead paint exposures sources in one year and increased knowledge of preventive behaviors in another year; these improvements were observed for both genders and most ethnic, primary language, educational attainment, and age groups in each year. Lessons learned indicate that well-targeted media campaigns, designed with audience participation, can reach parents through various venues, and improve key knowledge areas. Evaluation challenges faced include high levels of knowledge at baseline, competing media messages, and balancing between program needs and evaluation design.
Further study on the excitation of pyramidal tract cells by intracortical microstimulation.

The effective spread of stimulating current for pyramidal tract (PT) cells and fibers was studied using a method of cancelling the shock artifacts and the following results were obtained: 1. The excitability of PT axon collaterals was as high as that of PT cells. 2. These axon collaterals extended as far as 1.0 mm horizontally from the PT cells. 3. The low threshold area for activation of a given PT cell was as wide as 3–4 mm2 on the surface of the cortex. 4. Intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) delivered to the PT cell layer produced direct (D) and indirect (I) descending volleys in the pyramidal tract, but ICMS to the superficial layer (III) produced only I-waves. 5. These I-waves grew significantly larger after 15–20 msec from the start of the train of stimuli. 6. It is concluded that either surface stimulation, or short train of ICMS is inadequate for delineating fine localization of motor function within the cortex. Longer train (30–40 msec) with high frequency pulses (300–400 cy/sec) can produce muscle contraction with much smaller currents, increasing the accuracy of measuring the localization of motor function.
Cardiovascular disease and sleep-related erections

Sexual difficulties are highly prevalent in male patients with cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and hypercholesterolemia. Recently, several studies have been conducted on the effects of cardiovascular diseases, as well as associated drug and nondrug treatments, on nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) and other measures of sexual function. Although an overall trend has been observed toward decreased NPT in patients with chronic hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, design and methodological difficulties have been noted in most studies, and results have been generally inconclusive. Similarly, antihypertensive drugs such as beta-blockers and diuretics have been associated with diminished NPT in several studies, although methodological problems have again been noted. Furthermore, the mechanism of action of antihypertensive drugs on sleep-related erections has not been determined. Most recently, a positive effect of cholesterol-lowering drugs (pravastatin, lovastatin) on NPT has been observed in middle-aged males with chronic hypercholesterolemia. Additional studies of the effects of cardiovascular disease on NPT and other measures of sexual function are needed.
Pressure casting of a zirconia-toughened alumina fiber-reinforced NiAl composite

A pressure-cast NiAl composite reinforced with polycrystalline alumina (PRD-166) fibers containing 0.2 weight fraction of partially stabilized zirconia was examined by optical and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fibers in the preform used for casting were forced into contact, and fiber bonding occurred in a number of instances. Fiber volume fraction was increased from an initial value of 0.4 to 0.6 as a consequence of the applied pressure. An explanation is offered for the interaction of applied pressure, wetting angle, and the rigidity of the fiber preform on the final volume fraction of the fibers in the composite. At the fiber/matrix interface, the alumina was free of zirconia particles. It is proposed that alumina grain growth forced the zirconia into the molten NiAl, where it dissolved. As solidification took place, the concentration of zirconium in the molten NiAl increased to a point where zirconium reacted with alumina to form zirconia again.
Electron paramagnetic resonance and Mössbauer spectroscopy and density functional theory analysis of a high-spin Fe(IV)-oxo complex.

High-spin FeIV–oxo species are known to be kinetically competent oxidants in non-heme iron enzymes. The properties of these oxidants are not as well understood as the corresponding intermediate-spin oxidants of heme complexes. The present work gives a detailed characterization of the structurally similar complexes [FeIVH3buea(O)]−, [FeIIIH3buea(O)]2–, and [FeIIIH3buea(OH)]− (H3buea = tris[(N′-tert-butylureaylato)-N-ethylene]aminato) using Mossbauer and dual-frequency/dual-mode electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopies. The [FeIVH3buea(O)]− complex has a high-spin (S = 2) configuration imposed by the C3-symmetric ligand. The EPR spectra of the [FeIVH3buea(O)]− complex presented here represent the first documented examples of an EPR signal from an FeIV–oxo complex, demonstrating the ability to detect and quantify FeIV species with EPR spectroscopy. Quantitative simulations allowed the determination of the zero-field parameter, D = +4.7 cm–1, and the species concentration. Density functional theor...
Clustering index analysis of the surface electromyogram poststroke

The purpose of this study is to test the utility of a new and simple quantitative analysis method, termed clustering index (CI) method, using surface electromyogram (EMG) for evaluating spinal motoneuron involvement in muscle weakness of chronic stroke patients. Five stroke patients were recruited and instructed to generate isometric contraction for the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle at difference force levels. The recording was performed in both paretic and contralateral sides of all stroke subjects, respectively. The Z-score, based on the CI method, was calculated on each side of a subject. Three subjects presented abnormally lower Z-scores on the paretic side, indicating dominant myopathic changes like muscle atrophy, while other 2 subjects presented relatively normal Z-scores. The normal observation in these 2 subjects may be induced by the combination of myopathic changes and neurogenic changes like degeneration of spinal motoneurons.
Synthesis of oligonucleotides containing 2′-deoxy-6-thioguanosine at a predetermined site

A new approach has been devised for the synthesis of oligonucleotides containing 2'-deoxy-6-thioguanosine [d(s6G)]. The synthesis of oligonucleotides containing d(s6G) requires special protection and deprotection strategies to prevent the thione functionality from undergoing oxidation and hydrolysis. Previous attempted syntheses have neglected to address this problem. By using the cyanoethyl protecting group for the thione and phenoxyacetyl for the exocyclic amino group, it was possible to deprotect oligonucleotides with a mixture of sodium hydroxide and sodium hydrogen sulfide without any significant conversion of d(s6G) to deoxyguanosine. Application of this strategy will allow investigation of the structural as well as biological activity of d(s6G)-containing oligonucleotides.
Lipoatrophy and severe metabolic disturbance in mice with fat-specific deletion of PPARγ

Adipose tissue is an important metabolic organ, the dysfunction of which is associated with the development of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is considered the master regulator of adipocyte differentiation and function. Although its cell-autonomous role in adipogenesis has been clearly demonstrated in cell culture, previous fat-specific knockouts of the murine PPARγ gene did not demonstrate a dramatic phenotype in vivo. Here, using Adipoq–Cre mice to drive adipose-specific recombination, we report a unique fat-specific PPARγ knockout (PPARγ FKO) mouse model with almost no visible brown and white adipose tissue at age 3 mo. As a consequence, PPARγ FKO mice had hugely enlarged pancreatic islets, massive fatty livers, and dramatically elevated levels of blood glucose and serum insulin accompanied by extreme insulin resistance. PPARγ FKO mice also exhibited delayed hair coat formation associated with absence of dermal fat, disrupted mammary gland development with loss of mammary fat pads, and high bone mass with loss of bone marrow fat, indicating the critical roles of adipose PPARγ in these tissues. Together, our data reveal the necessity of fat PPARγ in adipose formation, whole-body metabolic homeostasis, and normal development of fat-containing tissues.
Detection of Methanol in Gasolines Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and an Optical Fiber

Because of methanol's relatively low cost and its utility as an octane booster, a need to monitor the concentration of methanol in gasolines has evolved. Near-infrared analysis can be used to monitor methanol in gasolines with the use of optical fiber. If stepwise multiple linear regression is used, methanol can be predicted to within 0.25 weight percent. The use of an optical fiber lowers personnel and instrument exposure to hazardous environments and minimizes the risk of explosion. It is pointed out, however, that care must be taken in the prediction of future specimens. The differences between enumerative and analytical calibrations are also discussed.
Effects of two louisiana marsh management plans on water and materials flux and short-term sedimentation

The impact of two coastal Louisiana marsh management plants on water and materials flux, shortterm sedimentation, and several soil parameters was evaluated between May 1989 and January 1990. The study was carried out in the Fina-Laterre Marsh Management Area and the Rockefeller State Wildlife Refuge in managed and unmanaged areas. Water and material flux was measured each two hours during twelve 48 h flux studies, and net fluxes per m2 of drainage area were calculated for water, total suspended sediments, salinity, NO3+NO2, PO4, and NH4. Short-term sedimentation was measured as the weight of material deposited over 2–4 week intervals on petri dishes placed on the marsh surface. The managed sites experienced considerable reductions in total water exchange, leading to reductions in net material exchanges. When expressed on a per m2 basis, the managed wetlands are much less tightly coupled to the surrounding estuary compared to unmanaged areas. Within the context of a general decrease of exchange, the two managed areas on average export materials to the estuary. In the managed areas, the results suggest that management can lead to reduced salinity and a loss of sediments and nutrients. Short-term sedimentation was less at the managed areas; expressed as g m−2d−1, total sedimentation rates were 0.57 for Fina managed, 1.02 for Fina unmanaged, 1.68 for Rockefeller managed, and 3.82 for Rockefeller unmanaged. Soil P was lower and soil organic matter was higher at the managed areas. Organic matter in the soil was low compared with recently deposited material, suggesting that most organic matter deposited on the surface of the marsh is lost through decomposition. Reduction of flooding during storm events is the likely mechanism leading to reduced sedimentation on the marsh surface in the managed areas.
Reply to Deborah Cameron on Verbal Hygiene

est in these matters, however, recent events ^ the national curriculum debate in particular^must surely prompt us to re£ection on how we can make more eiective interventions. My own feeling is that we need to start talking more concretely about what we are for as well as what we are against (e.g. grammar drills and standard English in the playground). Researching Verbal hygiene convinced me that the main obstacle to our making our views `heard' beyond the boundaries of our discipline is the lay perception of us as unreconstructed relativists with no values or standards at all ^ we are seen as a strange and mealy-mouthed group of experts for whom ways of using language can only be more or less `acceptable' or `appropriate', never `good' or `bad'. (Milroy ¢nds my discussion of linguists' language confused, and perhaps it is: but part of my point is simply that we have sometimes given a misleading impression of ourselves by not using plain words.) Linguists do not lack the hygienic impulse, as our own writings show. We acknowledge not only the beauty and intricacy of human languages but also degrees of skill and artistry in the use of them (qualities which are not however con¢ned to `polite' letters). We criticise departures from certain standards of clarity and correctness in one another's use of language^ witness Milroy's remarks on my spelling. Why should we suppress our value-judgements, or dress them up in language that is likely to be misunderstood? Better, surely, to show how evaluation can be made more accountable to knowledge and to reason.Verbal hygiene is, among other things, an expression of my hope that in future, through the eiorts of linguists and nonlinguists alike, we will have a form of public discourse on language which is informed and rational, as well as passionate.
Singular behaviour at the end of a tensile crack in a hardening material

Abstract D istributions of stress occurring at the tip of a crack in a tension field are presented for both plane stress and plane strain. A total deformation theory of plasticity, in conjunction with two hardening stress-strain relations, is used. For applied stress sufficiently low such that the plastic zone is very small relative to the crack length, the dominant singularity can be completely determined with the aid of a path-independent line integral recently given by rice (1967). The amplitude of the tensile stress singularity ahead of the crack is found to be larger in plane strain than in plane stress.