cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ROSE: a novel link state information update scheme for QoS routing

Distributing the link state information may introduce a significant protocol overhead on network resources. Hence, it is critical to investigate the issue of effectively and efficiently updating link state information. In this paper, by demonstrating that link state update schemes without considering the QoS requirements of connections cannot provide satisfactory solutions to real networks, we introduce a novel link information update scheme, routing-oriented update scheme (ROSE). Via theoretical analysis and extensive simulations, we show that ROSE greatly outperforms the state of the art in terms of both protocol overhead and the accuracy of link state information. Another contribution of this paper is the introduction of a method to numerically evaluate the staleness of link state information.
An Immunocytochemical Approach to the Study of β-Endorphin Production in Human Keratinocytes using Confocal Microscopy

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a protein that is posttranslationally processed to yield POMC peptides. The main site of POMC expression is the anterior pituitary lobe but many other sources have been identified. There is evidence that the skin produces POMC peptides, although their roles have not yet been defined. In the skin, regulation of POMC gene expression is known to be hair-cycle dependent, and it is localized to the sebaceous gland. In particular, beta-endorphin, a POMC peptide, has been shown to be modulated by TPA, IL-1 alpha, and ultraviolet radiation in keratinocytes. These results were obtained by examination of POMC mRNA levels using the Northern blot method; beta-endorphin protein production by the Western blot method on cultured cells; and immunocytochemistry for tissue preparations. This report represents an approach to use immunocytochemistry to quantify beta-endorphin production in cultured human keratinocytes. Additionally, we examined whether exposure to 20 mJ ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) and/or UVA could influence beta-endorphin production in these cells. Keratinocytes were grown in monolayers, in serum-free medium, fixed, and incubated with antiserum to whole synthetic beta-endorphin. Fluorescence microscopy was performed with a confocal laser scanning microscope. The integrated level of fluorescence was evaluated in n = 18 +/- 8 individual cells, and this was assumed to be proportional to beta-endorphin content. High variability was observed in the fluorescence intensity among cells. No significant differences between control and UVB- or UVA + UVB-treated cells was found. Similar results were produced by using brefeldin A, a compound that disrupts the secretory pathway, eliminating the possibility that the absence of a difference between beta-endorphin content in the treated and control cells was due to secretion of the peptide into the medium. We conclude that: (1) beta-endorphin or beta-endorphin-like peptides are produced in human keratinocytes and are readily detected by immunocytochemistry; (2) under the conditions tested, UVA and/or UVB did not increase beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity in these cells.
Estimation of duration of separation, widowhood, and family life cycle.

This is the second of two reports on a study of the durations related to marriage. Divorce and death of one's spouse, the main causes of dissolution of marriage, are two of the most important events in a person's life. In the United States in 1994, 30.7 million, or 16.2%, of the adult population were either divorced or widowed. Among the widowed, the female to male ratio was 5 to 1! In this paper duration of separation due to divorce and duration of widowhood are the main variables under study. Algebraic formulas are derived and computer programs are written for estimating these durations for husbands and wives, and for living couples of any age. Relations with the duration of marriage, the expectation of life, and the family life cycle are also presented.
Retrieval processes in perceptual recognition and cued recall: the influence of category size

The purpose of these experiments was to determine whether nonsemantic category size and other variables would influence perceptual recognition as they influence cued recall. Procedures developed by Jacoby and his associates were replicated with words belonging to either small or large nonsemantic categories and with recognition tested under bright-target/patterned-mask conditions. The results indicated that words belonging to larger nonsemantic sets were more difficult to identify. This finding and the results of other manipulations are discussed in relation to the interactive activation model and to the proposal that perceptual recognition performance is dependent on a retrieval process similar to that involved in recall prompted by nonsemantic cues.
Sex control, science, and society.

The possible effects of sex control on society raise ethical moral and philosophical problems. The work on sex control in recent years is reviewed. Soft and hard evidence of sex preferences indicate a higher number of boys are desired and if sex control by medication were available the actual preference for boys might be even higher. Possible societal consequences of a boy surplus might be an increase in criminal behavior a decrease in agents of moral education and an intensification of interracial and interclass tensions; changes caused by sex control would probably be spread throughout society however and the effects lessened. Various approaches to protecting society from science and technology are presented and the direction given to technology by society is stressed.
Scalable synthesis of self-assembling nanoparticle clusters based on controlled steric interactions

A simple one-pot method is presented for the synthesis of amphiphilic gold nanoparticles that can spontaneously self-assemble into stable clusters with controllable geometry. The technique is based on the control of colloidal interactions through sequential functionalization of the surfaces with long polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains followed by short alkane–thiol molecules. This process renders the gold nanoparticles amphiphilic and initiates the self-assembly of stable clusters in the dispersion. It is shown that the dominant structures and sizes of the clusters (i.e. singlets, doublets, triplets and others) are directly and reproducibly controlled by the concentration of PEG chains that are linked to the particle surface. Changes in the structure of the clusters are systematically characterized by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Systematic shifts in the plasmon resonance peak of the gold nanoparticle clusters demonstrate that this new method for self-assembly can be effectively used to tune optical properties with great precision. With this new approach, we show that it is possible to fabricate large numbers of amphiphilic nanoparticles and clusters with controllable structure by manipulating the repulsive steric forces that are imparted by surface bound polymers and the attractive interactions of the hydrophobic alkane–thiols. The major advantage of this technique lies in its simplicity, versatility and potential for scalable production of self-assembled ‘colloidal molecules’.
Midlatency auditory evoked responses: differential recovery cycle characteristics.

Abstract Middle latency responses (MLRs), in the 10–100 msec latency range evoked by click stimuli, were examined in two sets of 7 adult subjects utilizing 5 randomly ordered rates of stimulus presentation: 0.5/sec, 1/sec, 5/sec, 8/sec and 10/sec. Evoked potentials were collected in 250 trial averages for each rate, and a replication across rates yielded 500 trial averages. Peak-to-peak measurements for Pa-Nb and P1-Nb components revealed that the P1 component was reduced in amplitude or absent at the faster rates, while the amplitude of the Pa component remained unchanged across rates. In addition, the latency of Pa was significantly longer for the faster rates of stimulation. These findings were similar across both mastoid and sternovertebral references. Taken together with previous work, these data suggest that the human Pa and P1 potentials reflect different generator systems. Moreover, the physiological similarities between the human P1 potential and the cat wave A suggest that in the human, as in the cat, this potential may be generated within the ascending reticular activating system, whereas the physiological similarities between the human Pa and the cat wave 7, as well as previous clinical data, suggest an auditory cortex origin of this component.
Novel approaches to stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: introduction.

Both the incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation increase with advancing age. Hence, the burden posed by stroke resulting from atrial fibrillation will continue to increase. Varying pharmacological methods to prevent such strokes have been tested over the preceding decades. Warfarin, warfarin plus dipyridamole, aspirin, warfarin plus aspirin, low-dose warfarin, and other regimens have been evaluated in clinical trials. The most rigorous trials have shown conventional dose warfarin, by itself, to be the most effective and safe means of stroke prevention for patients with heart disease and atrial fibrillation. New agents are in development or under evaluation in randomized clinical trials, …
Neuronal Responses to Lemniscal Stimulation in Laminar Brain Slices of the Inferior Colliculus

The central nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICC) receives inputs from all parts of the auditory brainstem and transmits the information to the forebrain. Fibrodendritic laminae of the ICC provide a structural basis for a tonotopic organization, and the interaction of inputs within a single layer is important for ICC processing. Transverse slice planes of the ICC sever the layers and many of the ascending axons that enter through the lateral lemniscus. Consequently, the activity initiated within a lamina by a pure lemniscal stimulus is not well characterized. Here, we use a slice plane that maintains the integrity of the laminae in ICC and allows the axons in the lateral lemniscus to be stimulated at a distance from the ICC. We examined both the postsynaptic currents and potentials of the same neurons to lemniscal stimuli in this laminar brain slice. Our main finding is that lemniscal stimulation evokes prolonged synaptic potentials in ICC neurons. Synaptic potential amplitudes and durations increase with lemniscal shock strength. In ∼50% of ICC neurons, the postsynaptic potential is equal in duration to the postsynaptic current, whereas in the remaining neurons it is three to four times longer. Synaptic responses to single shocks or shock trains exhibit plateau potentials that enable sustained firing in ICC neurons. Plateau potentials are evoked by N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation, and their amplitudes and durations are regulated by both NMDA-R and gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA)-R activation. These data suggest that in the intact laminae of the ICC, lemniscal inputs initiate sustained firing through monosynaptic and polysynaptic NMDA-mediated synapses regulated by GABAA synapses.
Scalable nano-particle assembly by efficient light-induced concentration and fusion

Avalanche concentration, a rapid, long-range accumulation of particles around a laser spot in a liquid sample, is demonstrated and characterized for various nanoparticles (NPs). The effect is driven by a convective flow in the sample, caused by efficient heating of NPs with high absorption efficiencies. Several types of concentration behavior were observed and characterized. Control of optical power and initial particle density was found to be effective in determining the assembly process. VO2 nanowires, carbon nanotube (CNT), and quantum dot (QD) electrode gap bridges were assembled with a variety of sizes and geometries to show the utility of the method for nano-assembly. Bridges were assembled from as many as thousands to as few as one NP and were found to form solid electrical contact between the electrodes, as verified by measuring the current - voltage (I-V) characteristic.
“In Brief” Articles

With this issue of CORR, we introduce a new feature: “In Brief.” These one- to two-page articles are intended to provide readers with a quick overview of a focused question or issue. The series will include: Fractures in Brief, Statistics in Brief, Classifications in Brief, and may be expanded to other areas. These articles are not intended to comprehensively review the literature, but rather to provide the opinion of one individual who is expert in the area. We particularly hope residents will find these useful. Richard A. Brand, MD Editor-in-Chief
Propagation constant and the velocity of the coherent wave in a dense strongly scattering medium

Frequency- and time-domain experiments are conducted to study the effective propagation constant of the coherent wave in a dense strongly scattering medium. A wide-band microwave signal (10-40 GHz) is propagated through randomly distributed glass spheres with a 5.73 mm average diameter and separated into incoherent and coherent fields. The real and imaginary parts of the propagation constant are obtained from the coherent field. The narrow size distribution of the particles enables the authors to study scattering from the Rayleigh region through the Mie resonance scattering region. The results of the experiments are compared to independent scattering, effective-field approximation (Foldy's), and the higher order quasi-crystalline approximation (QCA) using Mie scattering coefficients and the Percus-Yevick approximation for the pair-distribution function. The phase and group velocities of the coherent wave are obtained from the effective propagation constant and compared with theory. In addition, the velocity of the coherent wave in random media is measured using the time-domain technique. It is shown that the velocity of the coherent wave in random media is neither phase nor group velocity.
Characterization and Quantitation of Experimental Surgical-Wound Infections Used to Evaluate Topical Antibacterial Agents

Reproducible experimental surgical-wound infections in mice for use in the evaluation of topical antibacterial agents are described. The experimental would was created on the backs of mice by means of a midline incision and was infected by means of cotton sutures monocontaminated with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa . The course of these wound infections was followed by quantitation of surface bacteria through use of a surface rinse technique. Surface wound counts of the infecting organisms thus obtained appeared to reflect the dynamics of the total wound count, as determined by homogenization of biopsied tissue. Treatment of infected wounds with a placebo cream had only a slight effect on surface wound counts and on mortality in the case of the S. aureus infection but enhanced markedly the lethality of the P. aeruginosa infection. Images
Spectral Measurement of Nonlinear Absorption and Refraction Using a White-Light Continuum Z-scan

We use a white-light continuum (WLC) as the source in a standard Z-scan technique to measure the degenerate two-photon absorption (2PA) spectrum and the nonlinear refraction dispersion in optical materials.
Carboxin resistance in the haploid, the heterozygous diploid, and the plant-parasitic dicaryotic phase of Ustilago maydis

Abstract Respiration and growth of a diploid strain of Ustilago maydis , heterozygous at the oxr -1 locus for resistance to carboxin and carboxin analogs, were less sensitive to the fungicide than the corresponding processes in the wild type haploid. Data on the inhibition of succinate-2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol reductase indicate that the mitochondria of the heterozygous diploid probably contain a mixture of carboxin-sensitive and carboxin-resistant succinic dehydrogenase complexes. This hypothesis is supported by the results of temperature aging experiments: When mitochondria of the heterozygous diploid were subjected to incubation at 30°C which destroyed the enzyme activity of mitochondria from the mutant haploid, the remaining succinate-2,6-dichlorophenol-indophenol reductase activity exhibited a carboxin sensitivity similar to that of mitochondria from the wild type haploid. Carboxin gave very good control of corn smut in seedlings artificially inoculated with two wild type compatible strains but not when both strains were mutant for carboxin resistance, which indicates high resistance in the dicaryon. In a heterozygous cross, the dicaryon seemed to exhibit considerable resistance, if sufficient time was allowed for its formation between inoculation and carboxin treatment of soil.
Some Improved Forced Commutated Cycloconverter Structures

Full automation in manufacturing processes has generated a considerable demand for ac motor drives and in particular static frequency changers (FC's). Forced commutated cycloconverters (FCC's) are frequency changers that can provide a wide output frequency range with minimum energy storage requirements. For this reason they can be manufactured in integrated form with significant savings in price, weight, and volume. These factors have generated considerable research activity toward the development of FCC structures that can compete with the typical rectifier-inverter structures. Some advanced FC cycloconverter structures with improved performance characteristics are considered. Areas of improvement include voltage utilization and generated harmonic distortion.
Truncated (N)-Methanocarba Nucleosides as A1 Adenosine Receptor Agonists and Partial Agonists: Overcoming Lack of a Recognition Element

A1 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists are neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anxiolytic. (N)-Methanocarba adenine nucleosides designed to bind to human A1AR were truncated to eliminate 5′-CH2OH. This modification previously converted A3AR agonists into antagonists, but the comparable effect at A1AR is unknown. In comparison to ribosides, affinity at the A1AR was less well preserved than that at the A3AR, although a few derivatives were moderately A1AR selective, notably full agonist 21 (N6-dicyclopropylmethyl, Ki 47.9 nM). Thus, at the A1AR, recognition elements for nucleoside binding depend more on 5′ region interactions, and in their absence, A3AR selectivity predominates. Based on the recently reported agonist-bound AR structure, this difference between subtypes likely correlates with an essential His residue in transmembrane domain 6 of A1 but not A3AR. The derivatives ranged from partial to full agonists in A1AR-mediated adenylate cyclase inhibition. Truncated derivatives have more druglike physica...
Membrane differentiation in the golgi apparatus of mammalian urinary bladder epithelium

The endomembrane system in superficial and intermediate epithelial cells of mammalian urinary bladder was studied by cytochemistry, thin-section and freeze-fracture electron microscopy to determine the sites where special forms of membrane differentiation first appear. Glutaraldehyde-resistant NADH-ferricyanide reductase, distinctive 11-12 nm intramembrane particles (IMP), and asymmetry of membrane leaflets served as markers of membrane maturation. The three markers were specifically associated with the maturing face of Golgi apparatus and were absent from the remainder of the endomembrane system. Activity of this enzyme was associated with the lateral regions of the maturing face, fusiform vesicles, and the plasmalemma. Asymmetric unit membrane (AUM) plaques were not observed in the Golgi apparatus per se but were present in immature fusiform vesicles that had not detached from the maturing face. When freeze-fracture replicas and thin sections were compared, randomly arranged 11-12 nm IMP first appeared in maturing face membranes that were adjacent to clusters of "free" polyribosomes in the Golgi apparatus region. The proximity of these polyribosomes suggests that they may be related to the coincident appearance of the 11-12 nm IMP in the maturing face membrane. Our observations support the hypothesis that membranes undergo differentiation during "flow" through compartments of the endomembrane system. The lateral regions of the maturing face of the Golgi apparatus appear to be a critical location for the morphogenesis of plasma membranes in urinary bladder.
Theoretical Support and Other Considerations in Using Simulated Clients to Educate Social Workers

This article builds on literature from many helping disciplines supporting the use of simulated clients (sometimes referred to as standardized patients) in training professional students, explaining why the use of simulated clients is more effective in developing clinical skills as compared with student-to-student role-plays. Psychodynamic and Bowen intergenerational family theory, critical to the development of social work knowledge, is used to support the use of simulated clients to portray clients with challenging and complex lives. Risks and benefits of using simulated clients is discussed, along with recommendations to educational programs regarding ways to effectively use this experiential learning method.
Comparison of peak expiratory flow and FEV1 admission criteria for acute bronchial asthma

One hundred nine episodes of acute bronchial asthma were studied utilizing PEFR and FEV 1 measurements to determine objective patient disposition criteria. Of patients with both a pre-treatment PEFR 1 at all stages of treatment.
Trauma of lung due to impact load.

Abstract A quantitative evaluation of lung injury due to impact loading is of general interest. Hemorrhage and edema are the usual sequelae to traumatic pulmonary impact. To gain some quantitative understanding of the phenomena, we perfused excised rabbit lung with Macrodex at isogravimetric condition and monitored lung weight continuously after impact. It is shown that a factor of importance is the rigidity of the surface on which the lung rests. The rate of lung weight increase is smaller if the lung was ‘freely’ supported on a soft cloth, more if it was supported on a rigid plate. This suggests the influence of stress wave reflection. The critical condition correlates with the initial velocity of impact at the surface of the lung, or with the maximum deflection. For a freely supported lung, the rate of lung weight increase was 22% of the initial total lung weight per h after impact when the impact velocity was 11.5 m s −1 , 30% when the velocity was 13.2 m s −1 , several 100% at 13.5 m s −1 , signaling massive lung injury. Since the velocity of sound in rabbit lung is 33.3 m s −1 when the inflation (transpulmonary) pressure is 10 cm H 2 O, the critical velocity of 13.5 m s −1 corresponds to a Mach number of 0.4. The maximum surface displacement of the lung is almost linearly proportional to the initial velocity of impact. The exact cause of edema and hemorrhage is unknown; we hypothesize that it is due to tensile stress in the alveolar wall caused by the impact.
Nearest neighbor pair models for solutions

Abstract It has been shown that it is necessary for any solution model to have a physically sound estimate of the combinatory factor of the configurational partition function in order to yield consistent properties of the solutions. The pair approximation is found to yield consistent solution properties. It is then concluded that the pair approximation is a sound and self-consistent solution model in spite of some recent criticisms. The possible defects in the other pair models have been identified, and the models shown not to predict consistent solution properties.
Acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene copolymers (ABS): Pyrolysis and combustion products and their toxicity—a review of the literature

A review of literature was undertaken to ascertain the current knowledge of the nature of the thermal decomposition products generated from ABS and the toxicity of these evolved products in toto. The literature review encompasses English language publications available through June 1984. This literature surveyed showed that the principal ABS thermooxidative degradation products of toxicologic importance are carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. The experimental generation of these and other volatile products is principally dependent upon the combustion conditions and the formulation of the plastic. The toxicity of ABS thermal degradation products has been evaluated by fire methods. The LC50 (30 min exposure + 14 day post-exposure period) values for flaming combustion ranged from 15.0 mgl−1 to 28.5 mgl−1. In the non-flaming mode of combustion, the LC50 values ranged from 19.3 Mgl−1 to 64.0 mgl−1. Therefore, no apparent toxicological difference exists between the flaming mode and the non-flaming mode. The toxicity of ABS degradation products was found to be comparable with the toxicity of the thermal decomposition products of other common polymeric materials.
The density of sodium borosilicate glasses related to atomic arrangements

Densities of sodium-borate glasses are reported over an extremely wide range of compositions. A semi-empirical model for density based on the ideas of Krogh-Moe and recently applied to the lithium borates is here applied to the sodium borates. The analysis was able to yield the volumes of the structural units present in the glasses and these were found to be larger than in the corresponding lithium borates. Carbon dioxide retention occurs for high sodium content glasses prepared from sodium carbonate and is shown not to have an effect on the densities. The volume of the carbonate unit in the glasses was also found.
The electronic scrapbook: knowledge representation and interface design for desktop video

Video is increasingly being manipulated on computer systems. Can an interface for video manipulation be made sufficiently simple and powerful to free the user's attention to focus on creative aspects of the medium? How are images to be described so that they can be retrieved? How is this representation to be presented to the user? Issues of knowledge representation and interface design are tightly linked.The Electronic Scrapbook is an environment designed to encourage people to use home video as a creative medium. This work addresses issues of knowledge representation, narrative structure, and interface design. To date, I have:•Developed the metaphor of a scrapbook as an interface for a video manipulation environment.•Applied a semantic network to video logging.•Implemented a pane-based video logging interface, which keeps information organized and minimizes screen clutter (see Figure 1).•Used inheritance to save the user work in logging video.•Created a library of story models, which help the user to tell home-video stories.•Applied the use of specific domain knowledge to help the user.•Focused on viewing the computer and the user as partners in a creative process.•Implemented a working system.Issues still to be solved include:•Designing an interface to allow the user to create new story models.•Extending the logging interface to allow the user to modify the underlying ontology.•Creating ontologies for additional subject domains.•Integrating object and stream representations of video to maintain simplicity while better accounting for video's temporal nature.•Testing the design on real users.Computer technology promises to make video more accessible to the non-specialist. However, careful interface design is needed to hide technical complexities and free the user's attention to learn about narrative structures and the creative potential of the medium. Using detailed color screen shots of the interface, I will be able to discuss the solutions I have obtained so far and the challenges that remain for incorporating video in the interface.
Co-culture of domestic animal embryos

Abstract Early bovine and ovine embryos co-cultured on monolayers of oviductal cells and uterine fibroblasts had improved viability and cleaved more frequently than embryos cultured in medium alone or co-cultured on monolayers of non-reproductive tract cells. Co-culture of early bovine and ovine embryos resulted in the development beyond the 8- to 16-cell “blocks” to development in vitro but which lagged behind in vivo development of contemporaneous embryos from superovulated females. Transfer of co-cultured embryos to recipients resulted in successful pregnancies although early embryonic wastage appeared to be high. Co-culture of porcine embryos with uterine fibroblasts improved their developmental scores and their ability to attach to the culture substrate. In several studies, co-culture of embryos on monolayers of cells from the reproductive tract improved the development of embryos more than co-culture with non-reproductive tracts cells. Co-culture may be a valuable tool for identification of interactions between the embryo and reproductive tract cells that play a specific role in the early development of embryos. In addition, co-culture may become a tool for evaluation of viability of ova that have been manipulated by procedures such as splitting, microinjection and nuclear transfer.
The Contribution of White Collars to Occupational Prestige

Regression analysis of the 1947 and 1963 NORC occupational prestige scores for 45 occupations indicates that being white-collar may have contributed modestly to the prestige of the 24 nonmanual occ...
Opposing central autonomic actions of α1- and α2-adrenoceptor antagonists on oculomotor tone

Abstract Electrical stimulation of the afferent sciatic nerve produces reflex mydriasis in anesthetized rats. The α 2 -antagonist idazoxan (10–100 μg/kg i.v.) inhibited this reflex in a dose-dependent fashion. In contrast, the α 1 -antagonist prazosin (30–300 μg/kg i.v.), produced a dose-related enhancement of the reflex. Single dose administration of the α 2 -antagonists yohimbine (3.0 mg/kg i.v.), rauwolscine (3.0 mg/kg i.v.) and idazoxan (1.0 mg/kg) also blocked the reflex, whereas the α 1 -antagonists phenoxybenzamine (3.0 mg/kg i.v.), corynanthine (1.0 mg/kg i.v.) and prazosin (1.0 mg/kg i.v.) potentiated this response. These studies demonstrate that α 2 -antagonists block and α 1 -adrenoceptor antagonists potentiate α 2 -adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition of oculomotor tone.
Critical Soil-Structure Interaction Analysis Considerations for Seismic Qualification of Safety Equipment

While developing seismic analysis models for buildings that support safety-related equipment, a number of issues should be considered to ensure that the input motions for performing seismic qualification of safety-related equipment are properly defined. These considerations are listed and discussed here with special attention to the effect and importance of the interaction among the foundation soil, the building structure, the equipment anchors, and the equipment structure. Typical industry practices are critically examined to assess their adequacy for determining the input motions for equipment seismic qualification. The features that are considered essential in a soil-structure interaction (SSI) model are described. Also, the effects of inappropriate treatment or representation of these features are discussed.
Robust estimation and signal detection with dependent nonstationary data

In this paper the dual topics of robust signal detection and robust estimation of a random variable are considered, where the data may be both dependent and nonstationary. We note that classical saddlepoint techniques for robustness do not readily apply in the dependent and/or nonstationary situation, and thus our results have application in a larger domain than what was feasible heretofore. In addition, our methods make possible the quantitative measurement of robustness and admit essentially arbitrary perturbations in an underlying joint statistical distribution away from the nominal. In particular, our methods show that the presence of dependency can result in a reduction of the robustness of the linear detector by approximately 50% and that appropriate censoring can improve this situation. We also show that, somewhat surprisingly, a weak amount of censoring can actually reduce robustness rather than increase it, even with dependent data that is "almost" independent. This calls into question the common practice, inspired by classical saddlepoint results for independent data, of employing censoring in cases where residual dependency is conceded. When applied to estimation, our work shows that for nominally Gaussian data, the conditional expectation estimator is optimal not only in terms of performance but also robustness (under appropriate performance measures), thus reinforcing the appeal of this estimator. On the other hand, for other performance measures, we also note that the conditional expectation estimator can be completely unrobust, regardless of whether the data is nominally Gaussian or not. Finally, our results establish a bound on estimator robustness.
No satellites detected around 21 Lutetia

The Asteroid 21 Lutetia is the target of a flyby by the Rosetta spacecraft in mid-2010. We observed Lutetia with the Keck adaptive-optics system, and searched for satellites. We find none, to a flux limit of 1/350 (Δ-mag = 6.4), corresponding to a size limit of roughly 6 km, at a separation of 0.15″ (3 primary radii or 0.006 Hill radii).
Effects of surfactants in the spreading of liquids on solid surfaces

Abstract Advancing and static contact line experiments using the Wilhemy technique are conducted to understand the interaction of extrinsic conditions (flow, geometry) with intrinsic material parameters (adsorption, diffusion) in dynamic wetting processes, when the liquid contains soluble nonvolatile surfactants. Provided the static contact angle is replaced by the dynamic one, equilibrium models adequately predict both meniscus heights and the force exerted by a moving meniscus on a solid for pure liquid at capillary numbers
The specification of orientation and its development in polymer processing

A critical review of the specification of orientation and its development in polymer-processing operations is presented. Orientation may in general be specified by orientation distribution functions, but is most conveniently expressed in terms of orientation factors which are second moments of the distribution. The Hermans orientation factor represents polymer-chain orientation for systems with fiber symmetry (uniaxial orientation) and the Hermans-Stein orientation factors express uniaxial orientation for each of the crystallographic axes of crystalline polymers. Biaxial orientation is, however, developed in tubular film extrusion, blowmolding and, indeed, all processing operations other than fiber formation. Orientation factors developed previously by the authors express biaxial orientation in terms of the angles between the machine and transverse directions and the polymer chain axis or crystallographic axes. In flowing polymer melts, the Rheo-Optical Law, which relates birefringence and stress, represents a relationship between polymer-chain orientation and stress. In vitrified polymeric glasses (e.g. polystyrene), the orientation factors are related linearly to the stress field at vitrification. This has been shown experimentally for melt spinning and tubular film extrusion. The results of studies of blowmolding and injection molding are consistent with this. The crystalline orientation factors have also been found to be determined by the stress field at solidification in melt spinning and tubular film extrusion.
A comparison of strategies for reducing interval overconfidence in group judgments

The present experiments examined several strategies designed to reduce interval overconfidence in group judgments. Results consistently indicated that 3-4-person nominal groups (whose members made independent judgments and later combined the highest and lowest of these estimates into a single confidence interval) were better calibrated than individual judges and interactive groups. This pattern held even when participants were directly instructed to expand their interval estimates, or when interactive groups appointed a devil's advocate or explicitly considered reasons why their interval estimates might be too narrow. Interactive groups did not perform substantially better than individuals, although participants frequently had the impression that group judgments were far superior to individual judgments. This misperception resembles the illusion of group effectivity found in brainstorming research.
A Bioenergetics Model for Analysis of Food Consumption Patterns of Bloater in Lake Michigan

Abstract We developed a bioenergetics model for bloater Coregonus hoyi based on a synthesis of studies on the energetics of bloater and other coregonines. This model was applied to the Lake Michigan population with information on water content, gonad weight, energy density, diet, and thermal history. Water content (inversely correlated with energy density) of nonspawning Lake Michigan bloaters decreased linearly with increasing weight for fish smaller than 155 g. Model results indicated comparatively small seasonal changes in consumption, a result of high consumption by bloaters at low temperatures and relatively small differences in the temperatures of occupied water between winter and summer. Growth rates and food conversion efficiencies of bloater estimated from the model were higher by factors of 2–4 than comparable values for the alewife Alosa pseudoharengus, indicating that Lake Michigan could support a higher biomass of native coregonines than of the introduced alewife. Bioenergetics estimates of a...
The framework for DIRECTED online learning environments

Abstract A steady increase in the development and use of online instructional delivery systems in higher education institutions is expected to occur over the next few years. Online learning environments (OLEs) will emerge to provide comprehensive support for the process of learning and instruction. Currently, educators and administrators are seeking guidance for conceptualizing and implementing OLEs. A framework is needed to represent the essential aspects of OLE development and use, and to address the complex nature of OLEs. This paper offers a definition for OLEs. Also, a framework is presented to support a “directed” approach to OLEs that provides a basis for planning, designing, implementing and evaluating OLEs, and for online courses contained within OLEs. The elements of the framework for DIRECTED OLEs, Delivery, Interaction, Resources, Evaluation, Culture, Technology, Education, and Design, are defined and issues concerning the elements are presented.
Equal Cell Size and Nonorthogonality in ANCOVA.

A concern about the accuracy of the SPSS analysis of covariance program (ANCOVA) has been noted in the literature. This concern stems from different results obtained when using the classical experimental, regression, and hierarchial solutions in a "balanced" factorial design. This paper demonstrates that orthogonal effects are not to be expected following the "removal of the covariate." Three different methods of least squares were applied to an analysis of covariance problem in a 3 × 3 factorial experiment with equal cell frequencies. The three solutions yielded different sums of squares for the main effects even when the correlation between the covariate and dependent variable is negligible and the cell frequencies are equal. The importance of this fact is stressed for researchers using ANCOVA with factorial designs.
Together They Become One: Examining the Predictors of Panethnic Group Consciousness Among Asian Americans and Latinos*

Objective. This article examines panethnic consciousness as it applies to the two fastest-growing minority groups in the United States: Asian Americans and Latinos. Given the challenges of diversity and immigration faced by these two communities, I examine the individual-level factors that help strengthen their panethnic group identity. Methods. Drawing from data provided by the 2000 Pilot National Asian American Political Survey and the 1999 National Survey on Latinos, I use ordered probit models to determine the predictors of panethnic consciousness among both Asian Americans and Latinos. Results. The models confirm that for Asian Americans, high income, involvement in Asian-American politics, being a Democrat, and the role of racial discrimination encourage panethnic consciousness. For Latinos, the important factors are higher levels of education, gender, being foreign born, involvement in Latino politics, and perceptions of discrimination. Conclusions. The findings here stress the importance of social contextual factors such as racial discrimination on the formation of panethnic identity.
The Microbes Made Me Eat It

We share our bodies with a huge array of microorganisms. Many of these live in the intestine and number in the trillions ( 1 ). On page 228 in this issue, Vijay-Kumar et al. ( 2 ) show that the interaction between our immune system and these gut microbes plays an important role in the metabolic diseases that plague developed countries, with profound implications for the rise in obesity and what can be done about it.
The topography of binge eating, vomiting and laxative abuse

Data on the frequency and time distribution of bulimic episodes were examined in three groups of patients: those who reported binge eating and vomiting, those who reported binge eating and laxative abuse, and those who reported binge eating and both vomiting and laxative abuse
More than just a 'runny nose': a rare diagnosis of spontaneous CSF rhinorrhoea for a common symptom.

Summary Primary spontaneous cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea is a rare disease associated with female gender, obesity and empty sella syndrome. The authors describe the case of a 59-year-old woman who presented to her primary care physician with a 2-week history of drainage of a clear fluid from her right nostril that was initially treated as allergic rhinitis. A non-contrast CT scan revealed mucosal thickening in the right sphenoid sinus and a possible defect in the adjacent skull base. The patient initially declined a CT cisternogram, which provides greater sensitivity in assessing for a CSF leak. Nasal secretions tested positive for β-2-transferrin, which is highly sensitive and specific for CSF. After conservative interventions failed, a pedicled septal mucoperichondrial flap was used to patch the skeletal defect. At her 5-month follow-up, the patient remains asymptomatic.
The Dynamics of Pretrial Negotiation

It is shown that many cases proceed to court despite ample opportunity for interaction and much of the settlement takes place on the courthouse steps (the "deadline effect"). When fixed costs of bargaining are introduced, a "U-shaped" pattern of settlement appears with a greater chance of settlement at the beginning and at the end of negotiations than in the middle. These characteristics persist even as the time between offers approaches zero. The theoretical predictions are consistent with the stylized facts: a large proportion of the lawsuits that are settled out of court are settled very close to the trial date or in the first several days of the trial.3 Although the deadline effect appears in many other settings as well it has little theoretical support.4
SAR data collection and processing requirements for high quality coherent change detection

Coherent Change Detection (CCD) is a technique for observing very subtle changes between two Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images. It is an Interferometric processing technique that measures the coherence between two images, and denotes 'change' where coherence is not observed, and 'no change' where coherence is observed. Consequently, the strategy must be to form both images with as much initial coherence as possible, and then see where in spite of our best efforts coherence cannot be achieved. Many things contribute to destroying coherence, but we want to eliminate all sources except for temporal change in the scene being imaged itself. This requires that a number of variables in the data collection be well controlled, and that the processing must be adapted to mitigate the effects of residual imperfections to achieve maximum coherence. It must be emphasized that the coherence calculation, that is, calculating the actual CCD product from two images is the easy part. The hard part is making sure that the two input images have the underlying characteristics to yield a quality result. The purpose of this paper is to discuss "What it takes to get good CCD results."
Ouidah: The Social History of a West African Slaving “Port,” 1727–1892 – By Robin Law

This definitive history of the “port” of Ouidah is a painstaking reconstruction not just of the town's social history but also of the political and economic histories that are intertwined with it. ...
Illusory Volumes from Conformation

The purpose of this paper is to offer demonstrations of 'illusory volumes' in the spirit of the illusory flat surfaces described by Kanizsa. These demonstrations of illusory volumes exploit a new cue to the recovery of surface curvature from ambiguous images: conformation. In assuming conformation, the visual system assumes that the surface of a volume conforms to the curvature of its neighboring, underlying, or supporting surface, in the absence of image cues to the contrary. Demonstrations that exploit the assumption of conformation provide several insights into the nature of the inferential processing that underlies contour, surface, and volume formation. In particular, these demonstrations imply that the visual system does not calculate local surface curvature, illusory contours, or occlusion relationships before it analyzes global surface relationships.
A phonemic analysis of nine samples of glossolalic speech

In nine tape-recorded samples of glossolalia, there is a remarkably low correlation with English samples from the same Ss, ascribable primarily to variation in vowel frequency. Nonetheless, all glossolalic phonemes are within the normal phonemic repertoire of native speakers of English. There is a divergence of syllables per pause rates between glossolalia and English. Optional articulatory choices characteristic of glossolalic samples can evidently be studied by means of accepted scientific procedures independently of theological or religious explication.
Muscle Length is a Determinant of Cross-Bridge Cycling Rate in Intact Cardiac Trabeculae: Studies from Rodents to Humans

The rate of cross-bridge cycling, a fundamental determinant impacting cardiac output, is usually measured in permeabilized muscle preparations and under non-physiological conditions. In order to gain a better understanding of mechanisms that regulate this kinetic parameter, we developed a novel method for measuring rate of tension redevelopment (ktr), an index of cross-bridge cycling kinetics, in intact cardiac trabeculae under physiological conditions. We were able to measure ktr in rat, rabbit, canine and failing human cardiac trabeculae. The ktr at Lopt (optimal length) was 27.7 ± 3.3 s−1 for rats (n = 11), 12.4 ± 1.2 s−1 for rabbits (n = 6), 14.0 ± 1.8 for canine (n =2) and 14.5 ± 1.8 s−1 for failing human myocardium (n=3). using this technique we investigated the role of muscle length in regulation of cross-bridge cycling kinetics. In cardiac trabeculae isolated from Brown Norway rats (n=11), the ktr was measured twice at Lopt and at L90 (corresponding to 90% of optimal length) in each muscle. The ktr for the L90 was 45.1 ± 7.6 s−1 and it was significantly decreased to 27.7 ± 3.3 s−1 as the muscles were stretched to Lopt (P < 0.05). Duplicate ktr experiments at each muscle length did not show any differences between the measured rates (P = 0.84). Additionally, preliminary experiments suggest similar length-dependent modulation of ktr also exists in rabbit, canine, and failing human cardiac trabeculae. This novel technique permits studying cross-bridge cycling kinetics in intact cardiac muscles from various species. The observed slower rate at optimal length may elucidate the century old question of why contractile kinetics slow down with increased preload of the ventricle.