cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Managing biological complexity across orthologs with a visual knowledgebase of documented biomolecular interactions

The complexity of biomolecular interactions and influences is a major obstacle to their comprehension and elucidation. Visualizing knowledge of biomolecular interactions increases comprehension and facilitates the development of new hypotheses. The rapidly changing landscape of high-content experimental results also presents a challenge for the maintenance of comprehensive knowledgebases. Distributing the responsibility for maintenance of a knowledgebase to a community of subject matter experts is an effective strategy for large, complex and rapidly changing knowledgebases. Cognoscente serves these needs by building visualizations for queries of biomolecular interactions on demand, by managing the complexity of those visualizations, and by crowdsourcing to promote the incorporation of current knowledge from the literature.
CROSS-LINKING THE ENDOTHELIAL αvβ3 INTEGRIN CAUSES CALCIUM-INDEPENDENT ENHANCEMENT OF PROTEIN TYROSINE PHOSPHORYLATION. ▴ 2288

Cross-linking the αvβ3 integrin in the presence of extracellular Ca2+, enhances protein tyrosine phosphorylation in lung endothelial cells (Bhattacharya, S. et al, J. Biol. Chem. 270: 16781-16787, 1995). To determine the Ca2+-dependence of this response, we loaded rat lung microvascular endothelial cells (RLMVEC) with Fura-2AM (5 μM, 20 min, 20°C), then incubated them with the anti-αvβ3 polyclonal antibody, R838 (20 μg/ml, 30 min, 4°C). To cross-link theαvβ3 integrin, we exposed the monolayers to a goat anti-rabbit secondary antibody (5 min, 37°C). Then we determined cytosolic Ca2+([Ca2+]i) by Fura-2 imaging and protein tyrosine phosphorylation by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting of cell lysates. Cross-linking in Ca2+-HEPES increased [Ca2+]i and enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation. However, cross-linking either in Ca2+-free HEPES or following cell incubation with the membrane permeant calcium chelator, MAPTAM(bis-(2-Amino-5-methylphenoxy) ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid tetraacetoxymethyl ester; 200 μM), blunted the increase of[Ca2+]i but not the enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation. We conclude first, that in RLMVEC, cross-linking the αvβ3 integrin increases [Ca2+]i because of external calcium entry; second, that the cross-linking induced enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation is[Ca2+]i independent (supported by R29 HL54157).
Interfacial reaction and wetting behavior in eutectic SnPb solder on Ni/Ti thin films and Ni foils

Ni-based under bump metallization (UBM) is of interest in low cost flip chip technology primarily due to a slower chemical reactions with high-Sn solders such as eutectic SnPb as compared to Cu-based UBM. We studied wetting behaviors and interfacial reactions of the eutectic 63Sn–37Pb on Ni foils and Ni/Ti thin films using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersion x-ray analysis. Wetting angle, morphology of solder surface, and the rate of consumption of Ni have been studies as a function of reflow time at the temperatures of 200, 220, and 240 °C. From the TEM analysis, we found that Ni forms a single layer of scallop-type Ni3Sn4 compound with the eutectic SnPb. During the isothermal annealing, we observed the spalling of Ni3Sn4 compound from the Ni/Ti thin films. The spalling phenomenon is similar to that of Cu6Sn5 from the Cu/Cr thin films, yet the rate is slower. The spalling of Ni–Sn compound eventually caused dewetting of the molten solder from the Ti surface.
NetGraph: an object-oriented graphical toolset for risk assessment

This article describes NetGraph, an object-oriented toolset for risk assessment applications. There are two significant aspects of NetGraph functionality. Firstly, NetGraph is a graphical knowledge acquisition tool for risk assessment, designed for robust structuring and efficient use of domain knowledge. A component library facility in NetGraph helps the domain expert to store and easily retrieve frequently encountered objects in complex systems. Time spent in designing fault trees is significantly reduced by the help of a cut/paste facility that allows the expert to easily define new fault trees by retrieving subtrees (components) of previously defined fault trees and putting them together. A second aspect of NetGraph is fault tree analysis. Fault trees designed in NetGraph can be used by either experts or operators to analyze fault behavior and probability of complex systems. A hypertext interface is also being developed to provide efficient communication of risks to individuals.
Tribo-Rheometry: From Gap-Dependent Rheology to Tribology

We describe a new tribo-rheometry fixture that can be utilized with a commercial torsional rheometer in order to explore the coupled rheological and tribological properties of complex fluids and solid–liquid systems. The fixture is self-leveling and both the normal load and the sample gap can be monitored or controlled. At large gaps, the fixture imposes an approximately constant shear rate on the sample and the bulk viscometric properties of the fluid can be measured. However, as the gap between the plates is reduced, the measured viscosity function becomes gap-dependent. For gaps on the order of the surface roughness of the plates, the device is operated under a constant applied load and the tribological properties of the fluid–solid pair can then be measured. Using this new tribo-rheometer fixture it is possible to obtain tribological information over a wider range of sliding velocities than is typically possible using conventional devices such as pin-and-disk systems. The data can be represented in the form of a classical Stribeck diagram or, by using a dimensionless gap-dependent shift factor, it is possible to construct a more general “friction map” of the gap- and load-dependent effective viscosity (Luengo et al. Wear 200 (1996)). The capabilities of this system are illustrated using a number of different lubricant fluids, for a range of normal stresses and variations in surface properties such as the mean roughness.
Perceptions of Students' Locus of Control of Discipline among Pre-Service and In-Service Teachers in Multicultural Classrooms.

The purpose of this study was to determine teacher perceptions of students' behavior/misbehavior in the classroom, and the differences between pre‐service and in‐service teachers' perceptions of students' locus of control of discipline (i.e. the source of discipline) in multicultural classrooms. The study also investigated perceptions in three related dimensions of discipline: motivation, mechanism and the basis of discipline. Furthermore, the study generated data to determine whether culture was perceived as a factor in teachers' perceptions of students' locus of control of behavior in the classroom. Findings were intended to assist in determining choices for appropriate intervention strategies for use in effective discipline or management of behavior in multicultural classrooms.
Effects of Gender, Attributional Style, and Item Difficulty on Academic Performance

ABSTRACT To examine the effects of gender, attributional style, and item difficulty on subsequent performance, 140 undergraduates were randomly assigned to one of two experimental conditions. Group A received a sequential-numbers completion test with difficult items, and Group B received a test with easy items. Five similar items, moderately difficult and identical on both tests, were used as the criterion measure. To assess attributional style, subjects completed the Attrbutional Style Questionnaire (Peterson et al., 1982). Results revealed significant gender and attributional style differences, with men and subjects with self-serving attributional styles scoring higher on the criterion than women or subjects with self-derogating attributional styles. A statistically significant three-way interaction indicated that the effects of item difficulty on subsequent performance were dependent on each subject's attributional style and gender.
The Scaling of Blood Flow Resistance: From a Single Vessel to the Entire Distal Tree

Although the flow resistance of a single vessel segment is easy to compute, the equivalent resistance of a network of vessel segments or the entire vasculature of an organ is difficult to determine in an analytic form. Here, we propose what we believe is a novel resistance scaling law for a vascular tree (i.e., the resistance of a vessel segment scales with the equivalent resistance of the corresponding distal tree). The formulation can be written as (R(s)/R(c)) proportional, variant(L(s)/L(c)) (where R(s) and L(s) are the resistance and length of a vessel segment, respectively, and R(c) and L(c) are the equivalent resistance and total length of the corresponding distal tree, respectively), which was validated for the coronary vascular systems of the heart. The scaling law was also shown to apply to the vascular systems of the lung, mesentery, muscle, eye, and so on. The novel resistance scaling law, coupled with the 3/4-power scaling law for metabolic rates, can predict several structure-function relations of vascular trees, albeit with a different exponent. In particular, the self-similar nature of the scaling law may serve as a diagnostic tool with the help of noninvasive imaging modalities.
Emerging Issues in Research on Lesbians' and Gay Men's Mental Health: Does Sexual Orientation Really Matter?.

Theoretical writings and research suggest that the onset, course, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders among lesbians and gay men differ in important ways from those of other individuals. Recent improvements in studies of sexual orientation and mental health morbidity have enabled researchers to find some elevated risk for stress-sensitive disorders that is generally attributed to the harmful effects of antihomosexual bias. Lesbians and gay men who seek mental health services must find culturally competent care within systems that may not fully address their concerns. The affirmative therapies offer a model for intervention, but their efficacy and effectiveness need to be empirically documented. Although methodological obstacles are substantial, failure to consider research questions in this domain overlooks the welfare of individuals who may represent a sizable minority of those accessing mental health services annually.
Abandoned Larvacean Houses: A Unique Food Source in the Pelagic Environment

Observations made by using conventional scuba techniques reveal that abandoned larvacean houses serve as food sources for marine, planktonic copepods. Techniques have been developed for photographing these houses in the field for the first time. The abundance of larvacean houses in the open ocean indicates that they are important in pelagic food webs and as a source of particulate organic matter.
A single, multiplex PCR for differentiating all species of Trichinella.

The genus Trichinella is currently divided into seven species and at least three additional, unclassified genotypes, Trichinella T6 T8 and T9. where both T8 and T9 have been deemed very similar to T. britovi. Other than for the non-encapsulated species, the absence of distinguishing morphological characters and the overlapping nature of the biological characters within this genus make these traits unsuitable for diagnosis. Consequently, we have developed a simple PCR test for the unequivocal differentiation of all currently recognized species of Trichinella including Trichinella T6. DNA sequence data from each Trichinella genotype were generated from internal transcribed spacers, ITS1 and ITS2, and from expansion segment V (ESV) of the rDNA repeat from which five different PCR primer sets were chosen When used simultaneously, this primer mix generates a simple and unique electrophoretic DNA banding pattern for each species and genotype. The ESV-derived primer set contributes at least one band to each agarose gel-derived genotypic pattern and therefore functions as an internal control for PCR integrity. Geographical isolates of each Trichinella genotype were used to verify the reliability and reproducibility of respective DNA banding patterns using single muscle larvae.
Seasonal soil-water availability influences snakeweed root dynamics

We tested a hypothesis that variable precipitation may induce altered rooting patterns. A nursery study was conducted over 2 years to evaluate the effect of seasonally variable soil moisture on the rooting pattern of shallow-rooted shrub broom snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae Britt and Rusby). Plants irrigated during the spring–summer, but grown under rainout shelters in the winter (S) produced more roots in the upper 30 cm of soil than plants receiving natural precipitation (N), or plants irrigated in the winter, but grown under rainout shelters in the spring–summer (W). Plants irrigated in the winter, but grown under the rainout shelter in the spring–summer had 45–47% more roots (p<0·05) extended below the 30 cm soil layers in the early spring than the other treatments. These well-developed deeper roots provided 75% of plant evapo-transpirational water use for the winter irrigation treatment. This altered root distribution also enabled the plants to produce above-ground biomass similar to that of plants receiving natural precipitation. Our data suggest that the root deployment pattern of snakeweed can be altered by variations in seasonal precipitation, which may help explain the competitive relationship between snakeweed and the shallow-rooted native grasses.
II.—THE MEANING OF PROPER NAMES

A PROPER name is a name of a particular thing; and a necessary condition of its being particular is its having a (particular) historical position. The thing named may also be unique in virtue of possessing some characteristic or set of characteristics possessed by nothing else. But it would not be its uniqueness which made it a possible subject of a proper name. For identical particular things may be given different names; and a unique thing may go nameless. Imagine two human twins more alike than any twins ever are: we should yet give them different proper names. And imagine a tree with a unique shape: we might decline to give it a proper name. The tree's uniqueness might interest us sufficiently to cause us to give it a proper name. But the subject of the proper name would not be the tree-as-unique but the tree-as-particular. That about the tree which stimulated us to give it a proper name would not be that about the tree which made it a possible subject of a proper name. What makes it a possible subject for a proper name is that we can find it at a particular time or at a particular time and place. Now certainly most things bearing proper names have location in both time and space, and perhaps all things have both sorts of location. But I do not want to discuss this question here. I want to insist only on the minimal condition of location in time. The views I shall offer will apply equally if the required location of the subject of proper names is of both sorts. I shall comment, but only briefly, on the topic of proper names of such doubtfully spatial entities as divine beings, ghosts, and fictional characters. Special problems are also raised by the proper names of such large and loose entities as nations and institutions. There is also a problem as to the length of temporal duration which a thing must occupy in order to be a possible subject of a proper name. For example, we give proper names to storms which last an appreciable time; do we also think it correct to give a proper name to a very brief event, as an earthquake ? The views I shall defend about the meaning of proper names will apply in either case. The particular question I want to consider is whether the meaning of proper names is " denotative " or " connotative " or both. The problem arises as follows. Because the thing named is particular (has a particular temporal location), it might appear that the meaning of the name is " denotative "-is just this
What do we know? How do we know it? An idiosyncratic readers’ guide to philosophies of engineering education

Conversations at the 2002 ASEE Conference in Montreal prompted Karl to write an Academic Bookshelf column on educational philosophy for the July 2003 issue of the Journal of Engineering Education. The column and set of recommended books have been read or browsed by many. Five years have passed and there are many new developments in the area, including conversations on the philosophy of engineering education. The purpose of this paper is to update an annotated reading list for those interested in engaging in the conversation about philosophy of education. John Heywood and Roy McGrann, co-designers and implementers of the 2007 and 2008 special sessions ldquoCan philosophy of engineering education improve the practice of engineering education?rdquo have crafted fascinating position pieces [1,2] and in this brief readerspsila guide we will try to provide complementary ideas based on selected recommended readings. Specifically we attempt to address ontology and epistemology, as well as the relationship between theory and practice.
Current and future nail research : Areas ripe for study

This discussion examines five common topics that affect nails adversely, onychomycosis, brittle nails, developmental nail disorders, chronic paronychia and onycholysis. What is known about these processes, what areas of research, old and new, might lead to improved understanding of the underlying basis of the problems and what prospects the future might hold are considered.
Morphodynamic profiling of protrusion phenotypes.

We propose a framework for tracking arbitrary complex cell boundary movements, relying on a unique definition of protrusion and retraction as the pathlength a virtual edge marker traverses when moving continuously perpendicular to the cell boundary. We introduce the level set method as a numerical scheme to reconstruct continuous boundary movement in time-lapse image sequences with finite time sampling. For moderately complex movements, we describe a numerically less expensive method that satisfactorily approximates the definition. Densely sampled protrusion and retraction rates were accumulated in space-time charts revealing distinct morphodynamic states. Applying this technique to the profiling of epithelial cell protrusion we identified three different states. In the I-state, long cell edge sectors are synchronized in cycles of protrusion and retraction. In the V-state random bursts of protrusion initiate protrusion waves propagating transversally in both directions. Cells switch between both states dependent on the Rac1 activation level. Furthermore, the persistence of transversal waves in the V-state depends on Arp2/3 concentration. Inhibition of PAK shifts cells into a λ-state where continuous protrusion is occasionally interrupted by self-propagating ruffles. Our data support a model where activation of Rac1 mediates the propagation of protrusion waves, whose persistence depends on the relative abundance of activated Arp2/3 and polymerizable G-actin.
Economic and environmental analysis of standard, high efficiency, rainwater flushed, and composting toilets.

Abstract The current sanitation technology in developed countries is based on diluting human excreta with large volumes of centrally provided potable water. This approach is a poor use of water resources and is also inefficient, expensive, and energy intensive. The goal of this study was to compare the standard sanitation technology (Scenario 1) with alternative technologies that require less or no potable water use in toilets. The alternative technologies considered were high efficiency toilets flushed with potable water (Scenario 2), standard toilets flushed with rainwater (Scenario 3), high efficiency toilets flushed with rainwater (Scenario 4), and composting toilets (Scenario 5). Cost, energy, and carbon implications of these five design scenarios were studied using two existing University of Toledo buildings. The results showed that alternative systems modeled in Scenarios 2, 4, and 5 were viable options both from an investment and an environmental performance perspective. High efficiency fixtures that use potable water (Scenario 2) is often the most preferred method in high efficiency buildings due to reduced water use and associated reductions in annual water and wastewater costs. However, the cost, energy, and CO 2 EE analyses all showed that Scenarios 4 and 5 were preferable over Scenario 2. Cost payback periods of scenarios 2, 4 and 5 were less than 10 years; in the future, increase in water and wastewater services would further decrease the payback periods. The centralized water and wastewater services have high carbon footprints; therefore if carbon footprint reduction is a primary goal of a building complex, alternative technologies that require less potable water and generate less wastewater can largely reduce the carbon footprint. High efficiency fixtures flushed with rainwater (Scenario 4) and composting toilets (Scenario 5) required considerably less energy than direct energy demands of buildings. However, the annual carbon footprint of these technologies was comparable to the annual carbon footprint from space heating. Similarly, the carbon savings that could be achieved from Scenario 4 or 5 were comparable to a recycling program that can be implemented in buildings.
Osmium Complexes of 1,4,7-Triazacyclononane (tacn) and 1,4,7-Trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (Me(3)tacn) and the X-ray Crystal Structure of [(Me(3)tacn)Os(eta(6)-C(6)H(5)BPh(3))]BPh(4).CH(3)CN.

The complexes of osmium with tacn (1,4,7-triazacyclononane) and Me(3)tacn (1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane), [LOs (eta(6)-C(6)H(6))](PF(6))(2) (L = tacn) and LOsCl(3) (L = tacn, Me(3)tacn), have been prepared by substitution of L on [Os(eta(6)-C(6)H(6))Cl(2)](2) or [Os(2)Cl(8)](2)(-), respectively. Reaction of LOsCl(3) with neat triflic acid leads to partial replacement of chloride and formation of the binuclear Os(III)-Os(III) complexes [LOs(m-Cl(3))OsL](PF(6))(3) (L = tacn, Me(3)tacn). The binuclear nature was established by NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis and, for L = tacn, a partially refined X-ray crystal structure which shows the Os-Os separation to be 2.667 A, indicative of significant metal-metal bonding. Reduction of [LOs(m-Cl(3))OsL](3+) over zinc amalgam in either aqueous or non-aqueous solution yields the intensely colored Os(II)-Os(III) mixed-valence ions [LOs(m-Cl(3))OsL](2+). Electrochemical measurements on [LOs(m-Cl(3))OsL](3+) in CH(3)CN reveal the reversible formation of the mixed valence ions. These are further reduced at lower potential to the Os(II)-Os(II) binuclear species, reversibly for L = Me(3)tacn. (Me(3)tacn)OsCl(3) is oxidized by persulfate ion to give [(Me(3)tacn)OsCl(3)](+); zinc amalgam reduction in an aqueous solution at high concentration produces the binuclear complex [(Me(3)tacn)Os(m-Cl(3))Os(Me(3)tacn)](3+) or, at low concentration, a solution containing an air sensitive osmium(II) species. Addition of BPh(4)(-) results in the eta(6)-arene zwitterion [(Me(3)tacn)Os(eta(6)-C(6)H(5)BPh(3))](+), which was characterized by X-ray diffraction on the BPh(4)(-) salt. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 with a = 11.829(2) A, b = 12.480(3) A, c = 17.155(4) A, alpha = 84.42(2) degrees, beta = 83.52(2) degrees, gamma = 71.45(2) degrees, V = 2380(2) A(3), Z = 2, and R = 7.62%, and R(w) = 7.39%.
Explanation of the matrix-induced chromatographic response enhancement of organophosphorus pesticides during open tubular column gas chromatography with splitless or hot on-column injection and flame photometric detection

Abstract The observed chromatographic response for organophosphorus pesticides in extracts from milk and butterfat is shown to be matrix dependent. The matrix protects the organophosphorus compounds from adsorption and/or decomposition in hot vaporizing injectors ensuring a more complete transfer from injector to column compared to the results observed when standards dissolved in matrix-free solvent are used. This results in recoveries in excess of 100% for residue-free extracts spiked with organophosphorus pesticides when standards prepared in residue-free solvents are used for calibration. The chromatographic response enhancement is minimized by using hot on-column injection at an optimized injection temperature, but not completely eliminated. The preferred method of calibration is to use matrix standard solutions prepared by adding known amounts of organophosphorus pesticides to residue-free sample matrix of the same character and in similar concentration to the samples to be analyzed.
Grafting fluorocarbons to polyethylene in glow discharge

A systematic surface fluorination of high-density polyethylene was carried out using CF4, CF3H, CF3Cl, and CF3Br, in a radio-frequency glow discharge. Based on ESCA and wettability measurements, all of these compounds provided a fluorocarbon layer on high-density polyethylene surface, but the fluorine to carbon ratio and extractability of the films were strongly dependent on the starting materials and the location of the sample specimen in the reactor chamber as well as the duration of the reaction. The results with vertically held, CF3H-treated samples showed a high level of nonextractable surface fluorination and very little change in wetting properties before and after extraction with CF2ClCFCl2.
Oscillatory electrographic activity in the hippocampus: A mathematical model ☆

Abstract This model of hippocampal function describes the bilaterally symmetrical interactions of the various intrahippocampal populations of neurons that are functionally homogeneous (septal and entorhinal sources of input, granule cells, CA field pyramidal cells, and basket cells). Activity of each homogeneous population is described as a first order nonlinear differential equation. Parameters are simulated, with activity defined in relative units ranging from 0 to 1.0. The 26 equations (13 identified pools in each hemisphere) were solved simultaneously by computer to produce plots of the time course of activity changes in each of the populations. The simulations performed thus far show that the model parallels certain known properties of the system: (1) there is the expected reciprocal relationship between pyramidal cells and basket cells; (2) activity can be made to oscillate or achieve steady-state, simulating EEG “theta” rhythm or low voltage, fast activity; (3) oscillation occurs where it is known to occur (CA 1 pyramidal cells and the dentate region), where it is presumed to occur (in basket cells), and does not occur where it is known not to occur (CA 2 pyramidal cells); (4) there is a narrow range of frequency, and attempts to increase frequency readily terminate oscillation to cause steady-state activity: (5) oscillation requires excitatory drive from the medial septum, whereas entorhinal input is relatively less important: and (6) increases in medial septal activity can increase oscillation frequency. The results also predict certain undiscovered phenomena: (1) there is a major influence of variations in decay rate of activity in various neuronal pools; (2) there is probably an ultra-slow oscillation in the CA 2 area; and (3) the CA 1 projection to the entorhinal cortex seems to be important in modulating frequency and amplitude of theta rhythm.
Fourier Transform Transport Solutions in Spherical Geometry

Abstract New transport solutions in infinite spherical geometry related to solutions in plane geometry are obtained through a Fourier transform analysis. The analysis leads to the true Green's function for spherical symmetry which is used in combination with Placzek's lemma to treat a finite spherical shell.
A Key Interaction between the Alphavirus Envelope Proteins Responsible for Initial Dimer Dissociation during Fusion

Alphaviruses such as Semliki Forest virus (SFV) are enveloped viruses whose surface is covered by an organized lattice composed of trimers of E2-E1 heterodimers. The E1 envelope protein, a class II fusion protein, contains the hydrophobic fusion loop and refolds to drive virus fusion with the endosome membrane. The E2 protein is synthesized as a precursor p62, whose processing by furin primes the heterodimer for dissociation during virus entry. Dissociation of the E2-E1 heterodimer is an essential step during low-pH-triggered fusion, while the dissociation of the immature p62-E1 dimer is relatively pH resistant. Previous structural studies described an "acid-sensitive region" in E2 that becomes disordered at low pH. Within this region, the conserved E2 H170 is in position to form a hydrogen bond with the underlying E1 S57. Here we experimentally tested the role of this interaction in regulating dimer dissociation in mature and immature virus. Alanine substitutions of E1 S57 and E2 H170 destabilized the heterodimer and produced a higher pH threshold for exposure of the E1 fusion loop and for fusion of the immature virus. E1 S57K or S57D mutations were lethal and caused transport and assembly defects that were partially abrogated by neutralization of the exocytic pathway. The lethal phenotype of E1 S57K was rescued by second-site mutations at E2 H170/M171. Together, our results define a key role for the E1 S57-E2 H170 interaction in dimer stability and the pH dependence of fusion and provide evidence for stepwise dissociation of the E2-E1 dimer at low pH.
Electronic effects on the surface potential at the vapor-liquid interface of water.

The surface potential of the vapor−liquid interface of pure water is relevant to electrochemistry, solvation thermodynamics of ions, and interfacial reactivity. The chemistry of an ion near the vapor−liquid interface is influenced by the surface potential. Indirect determinations of the surface potential have been experimentally attempted many times, yet there has been little agreement as to its magnitude and sign (−1.1 to +0.5 V). We present the first computation of the surface potential of water using ab initio molecular dynamics and find a surface potential of −18 mV with a maximum interfacial electric field of +8.9 × 107 V/m, which are consistent with structural data from experiment. A comparison is made between our results and those from experiments and previous molecular simulations. The associated electric field can alter interfacial reactivity and transport, while the surface potential can be used to determine the “chemical” contribution to the real and electrochemical potentials for ion transport...
Competition between Schizachyrium scoparium and Buchloe dactyloides: The role of soil nutrients

Abstract A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the competitive abilities of Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) and Buchloe dactyloides (buffalo grass) in low and high nutrient soil. These species have overlapping ranges and co-occur in semi-arid North American grasslands. Both species showed increases of approximately 2 g plant −1 in aboveground dry mass when soil nutrients were added. Aboveground dry mass of S. scoparium was slightly higher in mixture than in monoculture in low nutrient soil; however, in high nutrient soil, aboveground dry mass in mixture was significantly less than in monoculture. Buchloe dactyloides aboveground dry mass was the same in mixture and monoculture in low nutrient soil; in high nutrient soil, aboveground dry mass was significantly higher in mixture than monoculture. The competitive abilities of these species in shallow soils are dependent upon soil resource levels. At low soil resources, competitive intensity is not great and the two species appear to be equal competitors. At high soil resources, competitive intensity is greater and B. dactyloides reduced the growth of S. scoparium in mixtures. Differences in competitive abilities suggest that during the establishment phase, B. dactyloides would dominate in shallow-high nutrient soils and that coexistence would occur in low nutrient soils.
Conceptualizing and Measuring Bonding Social Capital in Low-Income Neighborhoods

Abstract As social capital continues to grow as a strategy for achieving improved outcomes for families in poverty, it is crucial to have more accurate definitions and measures of the concept. This study defines one aspect of social capital as bonding in low-income urban neighborhoods. In the context of this study, bonding social capital in low-income urban neighborhoods refers to the trusting relationships that exist among neighbors. This study tests the reliability and validity of a bonding social capital measure using five items of social cohesion and trust that are widely used in the field and were originally developed by the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN). Survey data collected in 2002 and 2003 from 7,437 respondents living in low-income urban neighborhoods and participating in the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Making Connections initiative are used to test the measurement properties of bonding social capital in low-income urban neighborhoods. Findings suggest that two of...
A Note on Taylor Instability in Circular Couette Flow

The problem of Taylor instability is reexamined, and it is shown that the effect of geometry (radius ratio) can be very nearly suppressed by a proper choice of variables. The two cases of cylinders rotating in the same direction and in opposite directions are treated separately.
The Magnetospheric cusps: A Summary

The polar cusps of the magnetosphere are key regions for the transfer of mass, momentum, and energy from the solar wind into the magnetosphere. Understaning these key regions and the dynamical interactions that occur there are fundamentally important to determining the physical nature of the magnetosphere. In this paper we try to summarize many of the conclusions reached in the papers of this special issue emphasizing the present concepts and definition of the cusp, what variations could be temporal structures and what could be spatial structures. We address the need for further measurements and the role of present and planned projects to address these needs.
Recent applications of small-angle neutron scattering in strongly interacting soft condensed matter

Before the application of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) to the study of polymer structure, chain conformation studies were limited to light and small-angle x-ray scattering techniques, usually conducted in dilute solution owing to the difficulties of separating the inter- and intrachain contributions to the structure. The unique role of neutron scattering in soft condensed matter arises from the difference in the coherent scattering length between deuterium (bD = 0.67 × 10−12 cm) and hydrogen (bH = −0.37 × 10−12 cm), which results in a marked difference in scattering power (contrast) between molecules synthesized from normal (hydrogeneous) and deuterated monomer units. Thus, deuterium labelling techniques may be used to 'stain' molecules and make them 'visible' in the condensed state and other crowded environments, such as concentrated solutions of overlapping chains.For over two decades, SANS has proved to be a powerful tool for studies of structure–property relationships in polymeric systems and has made it possible to extract unique information about their size, shape, conformational changes and molecular associations. These applications are now so numerous that an exhaustive review of the field is no longer practical, so the authors propose to focus on the use of SANS for studies of strongly interacting soft matter systems. This paper will therefore discuss basic theory and practical aspects of the technique and will attempt to explain the physics of scattering with the minimum of unnecessary detail and mathematical rigour. Examples will be given to demonstrate the power of SANS and to show how it has helped to unveil universal aspects of the behaviour of macromolecules in such apparently diverse systems as polymer solutions, blends, polyelectrolytes and supercritical mixtures. The aim of the authors is to aid potential users who have a general scientific background, but no specialist knowledge of scattering, to understand the potential of the technique and, if they so choose, to apply it to provide new information in areas of their own particular research interests.
On the Haezendonck–Goovaerts risk measure for extreme risks

Abstract In this paper, we are interested in the calculation of the Haezendonck–Goovaerts risk measure, which is defined via a convex Young function and a parameter q ∈ ( 0 , 1 ) representing the confidence level. We mainly focus on the case in which the risk variable follows a distribution function from a max-domain of attraction. For this case, we restrict the Young function to be a power function and we derive exact asymptotics for the Haezendonck–Goovaerts risk measure as q ↑ 1 . As a subsidiary, we also consider the case with an exponentially distributed risk variable and a general Young function, and we obtain an analytical expression for the Haezendonck–Goovaerts risk measure.
Effect of Load-Mix on Fatigue Crack Growth in 63Sn-37Pb Solder Joints

Fatigue crack growth at the interface between Sn-Pb solder and Cu was examined under various mixed-mode conditions. The load-mix, in terms of the ratio of Mode-II to Mode-I stress intensities, was systematically changed by varying the thickness ratio of Cu layers in the flexural-peel specimens made from Sn-Pb/Cu joints. Fatigue crack growth experiments were conducted using a sinusoidal waveform at a frequency of 5 Hz and a load-ratio of zero. Fatigue crack growth rates were measured as a function of the total strain energy release rates for a given load-mix. Fatigue crack growth resistance was found to increase with the load-mix, with the effect of the load-mix being more pronounced in the near-threshold regime. The effect of the load-mix on fatigue crack growth is shown to result from shear-enhanced frictional sliding of fatigue crack surfaces.
Two-step method without harmonics suppression in error separation

Harmonics suppression in traditional multi-step method hinders improvements in accuracy in roundness measurements. The two-step method proposed in this paper can solve the problem and at the same time shorten the measuring process with the Prony spectrum method and singular value decomposition.
Testosterone Threshold Levels and Lean Tissue Mass Targets Needed to Enhance Skeletal Muscle Strength and Function: The HORMA Trial

LOSS of skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia) contributes to declines in muscle performance and physical function during aging. Substantial losses in muscle strength may result in difficulty rising from a chair, climbing stairs, generating gait speed, maintaining balance, and frailty (1,2). The levels of endogenous anabolic hormones also decline during the aging process (3). Indeed, 25%–30% of men aged older than 60 years have low levels of serum testosterone levels (4) that may be associated with sarcopenia and muscle weakness (3,5). Restoring testosterone to youthful levels increases synthesis of myofibrillar proteins, total body cell mass, and muscle strength (6,7). Declines in growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) may also contribute to comorbidities in older men with normal testosterone levels (3,8). To better understand the relative contributions of testosterone and GH/IGF-1 axes in older persons at risk for sarcopenia, we conducted the HORMA (Hormonal Regulators of Muscle and Metabolism in Aging) Trial to test our hypothesis that endogenous testosterone and GH are important independent but complementary regulators of skeletal muscle mass and function even into advanced age (9). Total lean body mass (LBM), appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM), muscle performance, and stair climbing power increased significantly with testosterone and changes appeared to be enhanced by recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) (9). However, there was considerable variability in anabolic responses as well as in changes in testosterone and IGF-1 levels during treatment. This provided the opportunity to examine relationships of a broad range of hormone changes, including declines in levels as may occur in clinical practice, and their effects on changes in lean tissue mass, muscle strength, performance, and physical function. We used pathway analysis to test the hypothesis that testosterone and rhGH affected muscle mass directly and that a threshold change in lean tissue mass was needed to generate significant improvements in muscle performance and physical function. Additionally, we used bootstrap analysis to determine target hormone levels associated with threshold changes in whole-body and appendicular lean mass that would be necessary for improving muscle performance and functional outcomes.
Economic Benefits of Sport Fishing and Angler Wildlife Watching in Pennsylvania: A Comment:

Upneja et al. (2001) stated correctly that benefit estimates beyond those generated by economic impact analyses are appropriate kinds of information for policymakers and resource managers. The authors’ concern is that Upneja et al.’s article could potentially encourage other travel professionals to estimate travel cost models that provide inaccurate or flawed economic benefit estimates. Problems include using price as the only variable in the demand equation, out-of-pocket travel expenses as a proxy for price, and linear regression instead of a count data process.
Inhibition of follicular development by a potent antagonistic analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (detirelix).

The ability of a potent long-acting antagonistic analog of GnRH to suppress gonadotropin secretion, disrupt follicular development, and inhibit ovulation was studied in six women with normal menstrual cycles. The GnRH antagonist detirelix ([N-Ac-d-Nal(2)1 d-pCl-Phe2, d-Trp3, d-hArg(Et2)6, d-Ala10]GnRH; Syntex Research) was administered to six women by sc injection on alternate days during a 27-day period. Six additional women underwent blood sampling only, without receiving detirelix. Within 8 h after the initial injection of detirelix, mean (±sem) serum LH and FSH concentrations decreased by 74 ± 2% and 26 ± 3%, respectively. Mean immunoreactive FSH levels, however, returned to baseline after the first 72 h despite continued administration of detirelix. Mean estradiol (E2) concentrations decreased from 165 ± 15 to 70 ± 11 pmol/L in the first 24 h. During the treatment period follicular development was inhibited, and none of the six volunteers showed evidence of ovulation, as assessed by serum progesteron...
Adenoidectomy for otitis media with effusion in 2-3-year-old children.

Objective To compare the efficacy of three surgical treatment combinations – myringotomy and tympanostomy tube insertion (M&T), adenoidectomy with M&T (A-M&T), and adenoidectomy with myringotomy (A-M) – in reducing middle-ear disease in young children with chronic OME. Methods Children 24–47 months of age, with a history of bilateral middle-ear effusion (MEE) for at least 3 months, unilateral for 6 months or longer or unilateral for 3 months after extrusion of a tympanostomy tube, unresponsive to recent antibiotic, were randomly assigned to either M&T, A-M&T, or A-M. Treatment assignment was stratified by age (24–35 months, 36–47 months), nasal obstruction (no, yes) and previous history of M&T (no, yes). Subjects were followed monthly and with any signs or symptoms of ear disease for up to 36 months. Results Ninety-eight subjects were randomly assigned to the three treatment groups. Fifty-six subjects (57%) were 24–35 months of age; 63% had nasal obstruction, and 36% had previously undergone MT M&T vs. A-M, p = 0.01). By 36 months, there were no differences in the number of further surgical procedures for ear disease needed among the groups. Conclusions Adenoidectomy with or without tube insertion provided no advantage to young children with chronic OME in regard to time with effusion compared to tube insertion alone. Fewer tympanostomy tubes were placed in children undergoing A-M as their initial procedure, but this should be balanced by the performance of the more invasive surgical procedure and their increased time with effusion.
Parallel Java: A Unified API for Shared Memory and Cluster Parallel Programming in 100% Java

Parallel Java is a parallel programming API whose goals are (1) to support both shared memory (thread-based) parallel programming and cluster (message-based) parallel programming in a single unified API, allowing one to write parallel programs combining both paradigms; (2) to provide the same capabilities as OpenMP and MPI in an object oriented, 100% Java API; and (3) to be easily deployed and run in a heterogeneous computing environment of single-core CPUs, multi-core CPUs, and clusters thereof. This paper describes parallel Java's features and architecture; compares and contrasts parallel Java to other Java-based parallel middleware libraries; and reports performance measurements of parallel Java programs.
Primary care providers' perceptions of physical activity counselling in a clinical setting: a systematic review

Objective The evidence regarding the effectiveness of promoting physical activity (PA) in primary care is varied. The present study systematically reviews the literature pertaining to primary care providers9 perceptions about PA counselling to identify the barriers and enablers to PA counselling in clinical practice. Design A systematic literature review (through 2011) of quantitative and qualitative studies was conducted. Articles were included in the review if the study population consisted of primary care providers and the study evaluated providers9 attitudes and perceptions pertaining to PA counselling. Results Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Most primary care providers believe PA counselling is important and that they have a role in promoting PA among their patients. However, providers are uncertain about the effectiveness of counselling, feel uncomfortable providing detailed advice about PA, and cite lack of time, training and reimbursement as barriers. Providers are more likely to counsel their patients about PA if they are active themselves, or if they feel their patients9 medical condition would benefit from a lifestyle change. Conclusion Primary care providers are receptive to the notion of PA promotion in the clinical setting, yet numerous individual and organisational barriers need to be addressed to integrate PA counselling into primary care effectively.
20-Gb/s power-efficient CMOS-driven multimode links

We report several firsts for CMOS-driven, VCSEL-based, multimode transmitters and receivers: serial links up to 20 Gb/s; unprecedented full-link power efficiencies from 8 pJ/bit (15 Gb/s) to 17 pJ/bit (20 Gb/s); and >25-Gb/s transmitter operation.
Wave Boundary Layer Turbulence over Surface Waves in a Strongly Forced Condition

AbstractAccurate predictions of the sea state–dependent air–sea momentum flux require a thorough understanding of the wave boundary layer turbulence over surface waves. A set of momentum and energy equations is derived to formulate and analyze wave boundary layer turbulence. The equations are written in wave-following coordinates, and all variables are decomposed into horizontal mean, wave fluctuation, and turbulent fluctuation. The formulation defines the wave-induced stress as a sum of the wave fluctuation stress (because of the fluctuating velocity components) and a pressure stress (pressure acting on a tilted surface). The formulations can be constructed with different choices of mapping. Next, a large-eddy simulation result for wind over a sinusoidal wave train under a strongly forced condition is analyzed using the proposed formulation. The result clarifies how surface waves increase the effective roughness length and the drag coefficient. Specifically, the enhanced wave-induced stress close to the ...