cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The A/C (Araphidineae/Centrales) ratio in high and low alkalinity lakes in eastern Minnesota

SUMMARY. Diatoms from surface sediment samples from lakes on both sides of a glacial drift border in eastern Minnesota show that Araphidinate diatom genera like Fragilaria, Asterionella and Synedra are more common in lakes in drift with lower CaCO3 whereas Stephanodiscus and Melosira species are more abundant in those with high CaCo3. In a lake sediment core from low carbonate drift Fragilaria crotonensis and Asterionella formosa increased when pioneer farmers arrived. These results confirm speculation that high A/C ratios are associated with low-alkalinity eutrophic lakes.
Management Control Using Nonbinding Budgetary Announcements

We use an experiment to investigate the efficacy of a nonbinding budgetary announcement made by an owner in order to mitigate a management control problem induced by asymmetric information. The own...
A Bayesian learning model with applications to party identification

Previous research has suggested that party labels operate like brand names that citizens use to inform their votes. The article argues that this earlier work has focused too much on the content of ...
Relationship Between Changes in Left Ventricular Dimensions and the Ejection Fraction in Man

Left ventricular length and calculated diameter were derived from angiocardiograms in 24 subjects with various heart diseases. Chamber diameter was noted to decrease an average of 27.5% from end-diastole to end-systole, and chamber length decreased 13%. Only subjects with calculations of left ventricular mass differing less than 25% from end-diastole to end-systole were accepted in order to avoid effects of spurious increases in end-systolic wall thickness on calculated diameter. Patients with localized disorders of contraction were also excluded. An extremely close linear relationship between the percentage change in diameter and the ejection fraction was demonstrated. Analysis of the radii of curvature showed that the lateral wall usually straightens during systole. However, if extreme ventricular dilatation is present, the lateral-wall curvature increases with systole. The possible implications of this alteration in contraction pattern and its effect upon the ejection fraction were discussed.
Dynamics of Photoinduced Charge Separation and Charge Recombination in Synthetic DNA Hairpins with Stilbenedicarboxamide Linkers

The dynamics of photoinduced charge separation and charge recombination in synthetic DNA hairpins have been investigated by means of femtosecond and nanosecond transient spectroscopy. The hairpins consist of a stilbene linker connecting two complementary 6-mer or 7-mer oligonucleotide strands. Base pairing between these strands results in formation of hairpins in which the stilbene is approximately parallel to the adjacent base pair. The singlet stilbene is selectively quenched by guanine, but not by the other nucleobases, via an electron-transfer mechanism in which the stilbene singlet state is the electron acceptor and guanine is the electron donor. In a hairpin containing only A:T base pairs, no quenching occurs and the restricted geometry results in a long stilbene lifetime and high fluorescence quantum yield. In families of hairpins which contain a single G:C base pair at varying locations in the hairpin stem, the stilbene fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield decrease as the stilbene−guanine dista...
Double cropping opportunities for biomass crops in the north central USA

Increased biomass crop production is essential for the development of sustainable bioenergy and bioproduct industries. Double cropping is one strategy that may help meet those goals, but in more northern latitudes traditional double cropping has been limited by a short growing season. However, since lignocellulosic biomass crops do not need to complete their lifecycle and produce seed, double cropping those species could be successful and provide several beneficial ecosystem services. This includes providing nearly year-round ground cover to reduce soil exposure to water and wind erosion, and diversifying landscapes to help mitigate the unintended consequences of many current agricultural practices. Double cropping could also offer management flexibility in response to weather and market factors, provided the net return is commensurate with current singlecrop, grain production practices. Currently available double crop information for the north central region of the USA is limited, so we conclude that suc...
Solution behavior of Hg(II)-cystamine by Uv-Vis and 199Hg NMR

The combination of HgCl2 with the disulfide salt of 2-aminoethanethiol (cystamine dihydrogen dichloride) in water yields a two-dimensional chain {[HgCl4][(NH3CH2CH2S[sbnd])2]}n (1). It consists of six-coordinate Hg in [HgCl4]n units with bridging and termainal Cl atoms. The disulfide groups, (NH3CH2CH2S[sbnd])2 are held between the [HgCl4]n chain with weak S[sbnd]S interactions. The chlorides in the [HgCl4]n units are involved in intermolecular hydrogen bonding to yield a three-dimensional network. A similar reaction with the reduced form of cystamine (2-amino ethanethiol) yields a linear Hg(II)-bis-thiolate, [Hg(SCH2CH2NH3]2+ (2). When compound 1 is combined with two equivalents of NaOH it rearranges to 2 as indicated by 199Hg NMR and Uv-Vis.
Monocytosis in chlorpromazine-associated agranulocytosis: Termination in acute leukemia

A patient with chlorpromazine-induced agranulocytosis was found to have a marked monocytosis. Eighteen months after complete recovery, acute leukemia developed. Unlike earlier reported cases of leukopenic monocytosis appearing prior to recovery from agranulocytosis, the monocytosis was associated with leukocytosis and appeared at the onset of chlorpromazine toxicity. At the time of agranulocytosis and during the recovery period, no blast cells were seen in the marrow aspirates. Before the appearance of leukemia the patient had neither objective nor subjective evidence of a hematologic disorder. The possible relationship between marrow injury and subsequent development of acute leukemia is discussed.
Correlates of Correctional Orientation in a Treatment-Oriented Prison: A Partial Test of Person—Environment Fit Theory

This exploratory study examined several propositions of person—environment fit theory in an adult midwestern correctional facility oriented toward treatment. Special attention was given to the manner that person—organization fit influenced correctional staff outcomes. Drawing from the need—supply fit framework of person—environment fit theory, the authors predicted that correctional staff whose values and objectives were congruent with those of the institution would experience better outcomes than staff whose values and objectives were not congruent. The results generally supported these propositions. Staff who supported punishment had higher levels of role stress and work—family conflict, had lower levels of life satisfaction and moral commitment, and were more likely to perceive the organization as unfair. Conversely, correctional staff who were supportive of treatment perceived higher levels of integration and had higher moral commitment. These results suggest that efforts to increase value congruence ...
Bringing Acquisition Reform into Focus

The response of our defense industrial base to major changes, such as the collapse of the former Soviet Union, emphasize the need to continue to improve the way the United States buys weapon system...
Non-mesonic few-nucleon phenomena

Abstract Recent investigations of the interactions and properties of few-nucleon systems are reviewed and commented on.
Land use/cover mapping with quad-polarization radar and derived texture measures near Wad Madani, Sudan.

This study examines the relative utility of quad-polarization spaceborne radar and derived texture measures for classification of specific land cover categories at a site in east-central Sudan near the city of Wad Madani. Japanese Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR) quad-polarization spaceborne radar data at 12.5 m spatial resolution were obtained for this study. Measures of variance texture were applied to the original PALSAR data over varied window sizes. Transformed divergence (TD) measures of separability were calculated in order to evaluate the best bands from the original and texture measures for classification. Results show that quad-polarization radar data and derived texture measures have high separability between different land cover classes, and therefore hold potential to attain high levels of classification accuracy. Specifically, when used individually the cross-polarization bands showed the highest separability, but when used i...
Stoichiometry of the slow I(ks) potassium channel in human embryonic stem cell-derived myocytes.

The delayed rectifier Iks potassium channel is composed of α-(KCNQ1) and β-(KCNE1) subunits. The stoichiometry of Iks channels is a matter of some debate. Recently some investigators proposed that the number of KCNE1 subunits per KCNQ1 tetramer could be vary from one to four depending on the relative expression of these two genes. Here we review our previous study of biophysical properties of Iks in human embryonic stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes (hESC-CMs) showed that Iks in hESC-CMs is a coassembly channel with a stoichiometry other than 1:1, which could be further modulated by additional KCNE1.
Reported Obstacles to Eating a Well-Balanced Diet, Among Collegiate Female Athletes

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To state that limited time is the most significant obstacle to eating a well-balanced diet, among collegiate females. Inadequate nutrient intake is a problem for some female athletes. Athletes' concern for body size and composition and coaches' expectation for weight or size have been implicated as factors contributing to this problem. This research explored the importance of time as a limiting factor in obtaining a well-balanced diet. Female athletes participating in NCAA sports (n=82) and females participating in aerobics classes (n=105) at a U.S. university were surveyed to determine which factors they perceived to be the biggest obstacles to eating a well-balanced diet. The survey included 21 factors related to time, scheduling, money, facilities, concern for body size and composition and coaches' expectation for weight or size. Chi- square analysis tested the differences between athletes and controls for the biggest obstacle. Time factors were the biggest obstacles, with no significant differences between athletes and controls. The paired t-test compared the mean differences between two factors and indicated which was the bigger obstacle for athletes and for controls. Athletes indicated time to buy, eat and prepare food were bigger obstacles than coaches' expectation for weight or size. Enough time to prepare food was a bigger obstacle than concern for body size and composition and than coaches' expectation for weight or size. Being too tired to eat food was a bigger obstacle than concern for body size and composition. For control subjects, having enough time and being too tired to prepare food were bigger obstacles than concern for body size and composition. Thus for collegiate females, both athletes and non-athletes, lack of time appears to be an important obstacle to eating a well-balanced diet.
Bonding mechanisms and conformation of poly(ethylene oxide)-based surfactants in interlayer of smectite

A better understanding of the interactions between poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-based nonionic surfactants and smectite is important to fully comprehend the transport and the fate of nonionic surfactants in the environment and to design novel organo-clay composites. We studied the bonding between the surfactants and smectite and the molecular conformations of the surfactants in the interlayer of smectite. A reference polymer PEG and three nonionic surfactants—Brij 56, Brij 700, and PE-PEG—were intercalated into a smectite. The polymers and the composites were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The XRD and FT-IR results indicate that the bulk surfactants existed as crystalline materials at room temperature, and surfactant molecules had both helical/extended diblock and planar zigzag conformations. The surfactants intercalated smectite and expanded the d(001) spacing of smectite to nearly 1.8 nm. The shapes and positions of the IR bands of interlayer surfactants were similar to those of the melted (amorphous) bulk polymers: the wagging vibrations of the CH2 merged to a single band at 1,350 cm−1, the twisting bands of CH2 had 9 cm−1 or more blue shifts. These changes imply that the PEO segments of the surfactants existed with a distorted and extended conformation in the interlayer of smectite, and this extended conformation was an intermediate form of the helical and planar zigzag conformations. The molecular conformation of the interlayer surfactant was not affected by the seven types of exchangeable cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, and H+) tested. There were 20 cm−1 or more red shifts from the C–O–C stretching bands when the surfactants were adsorbed. The red shifts suggest that surfactants were bonded to smectite mainly through (1) H-bonding between oxygen atoms of the PEO segments and water molecules in hydration shells of the exchangeable cations, and (2) direct coordination or ion–dipole interaction between the oxygen atoms of the PEO segments and the exchangeable cations. With the extended conformation, the oxygen atoms of the PEO segments have maximum exposure to the bonding water molecules and exchangeable cations.
An interface for transmitting discrete response information to a computer

A circuit is described for interfacing response keys and other discrete inputs from psychological apparatus to a computer. Some of the unique features are: high noise immunity, the ability to transmit data over long distances, and electrical protection of the computer from accidental and potentially catastrophic high voltage inputs.
Full-Scale Load Test of a Sand-Jack

The results of a laboratory load test performed on a particular type of steel sand-jack are presented. A sand-jack is a sand-filled containment frame placed atop falsework to temporarily support abutting concrete bridge-girder segments prior to posttensioning. The girder segments bear directly on a timber “plunger,” which in turn is supported on the sand bed. After construction, the sand is removed, causing the timber plunger to drop, thereby removing support from beneath the finished girder. The falsework may then be easily disassembled. Also presented are the results of a finite-element analysis performed to determine the lateral pressure exerted by the sand bed corresponding to the experimentally obtained displacements of the containment frame. The results provide insight into the capacity and performance of the sand-jack assembly, and guidance to the engineer in determining appropriate design pressures.
From Liberal Pluralism to Critical Multiculturalism: The Need for a Paradigm Shift in Multicultural Education for Social Work Practice in the United States

ABSTRACT The mandate to educate students to work toward ending oppression and other forms of injustice is clear, but there has been little discussion in the multicultural literature about the kinds of knowledge that are needed to prepare students for such work. This article discusses the need for a paradigm shift from liberal pluralism to a critical approach to social work education and practice. It also outlines a set of core themes to guide multicultural curriculum development. These include (a) culture, (b) race and racism, (c) oppression, (d) multiple identities, (e) power, (f) whiteness and privilege, (g) historical context, and (h) social change. Obstacles to incorporating these ideas into the curriculum and recommendations for overcoming such obstacles are also discussed.
Host-marking pheromone and use of previously established oviposition sites by the mediterranean fruit fly (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Under controlled conditions, the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata(Wiedemann) preferred to initiate oviposition into preexisting, naturally formed oviposition punctures in a host fruit, kumquat (Fortunella japonica),over establishing new sites on the fruit. This preference was expressed despite the presence of naturally deposited host-marking pheromone (HMP)shown previously to deter oviposition. An almost-identical preference for existing punctures was expressed when females were presented with fruit bearing artificially made punctures on which HMP had been naturally deposited. Using artificial punctures and HMP extracts, the occurrence of punctures was manipulated independently of the presence of HMP.Under field-cage conditions, we found that (1) punctures stimulated egg-laying on kumquats, regardless of HMP treatment; (2) HMP extract inhibited egg-laying, regardless of the occurrence of punctures; and (3) the extent to which HMP inhibited egg-laying was greater on fruit free of punctures than on fruit bearing them. The physiological, evolutionary, and pest management implications of these results are discussed.
Brane Boxes: Bending and Beta functions.

We study the type-IIB brane box configurations recently introduced by Hanany and Zaffaroni. We show that even at finite string coupling, one can construct smooth configurations of branes with a fairly arbitrary gauge and flavor structure. Limiting our attention to the better understood case where NS-branes do not intersect over a four dimensional surface gives some restrictions on the theories, but still permits many examples, both anomalous and non-anomalous. We give several explicit examples of such configurations and discuss what constraints can be imposed on brane-box theories from bending considerations. We also discuss the relation between brane bending and beta functions for brane-box configurations. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
The role of the Elongator complex in plants

The multi-subunit complex Elongator interacts with elongating RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) and is thought to facilitate transcription through histone acetylation. Elongator is conserved in eukaryotes, yet functions in diverse kingdom-specific processes. In this mini-review, we discuss the known functions of Elongator in plants, including its roles in development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. We propose that Elongator functions in these processes by accelerating gene induction in response to changing cellular and environmental conditions.
Start Saying “White,” Stop Saying “Western”: Transforming the Dominant Vocabulary of Tibet Studies

This article employs a literature review and critical race analysis to explore the need for a renewed vocabulary in English-language scholarship on Tibet. Focusing on the popular use of the term “Western” as a stand-in for “white,” this article shows how whiteness is obscured behind non racialized signifiers, such as “scholar” or “author,” whereas racialized descriptions of Tibetans, Indians, and Han Chinese are ubiquitous. I argue that the obscuration of whiteness is linked with a privileged neutrality which is evident in the majority of English-language literature on Tibet, and which has wide-ranging implications for Tibetan and Chinese scholarship on Tibet. Considering the dominant presence of white people in Tibetology, I argue for a renewed vocabulary that allows for more honest and direct dialog about the meaning of whiteness in this particular area of scholarship and practice.
Current Status of Screening for Ovarian Cancer

Many women are requesting tests to screen for ovarian cancer. Extensive media coverage of this disease probably stimulates demand for these tests. Published reports from ovarian cancer screening programs have not yet demonstrated any benefit of screening. Existing programs have largely reported only the number of cancers detected during a single round of screening. Among 36,000 screened subjects reported on, 29 ovarian cancers have been detected; 12 of these were Stage I. All programs report that considerable surgery for benign disease has occurred among subjects. Follow-up, thus far, has been brief, and no control groups are included. Several new screening programs include only women with a family history of ovarian cancer. These programs also lack control groups and have little follow-up to date. A prospective, randomized trial of ovarian cancer screening to include 74,000 postmenopausal women has been initiated by NCI as part of the PLCO trial. Results from this trial should quantify the risks and benefits of screening; however, results will not be available for many years. Until there are data to show that screening reduces mortality from ovarian cancer, clinicians should not suggest these tests are beneficial, and they should avoid performing these tests outside of research protocols.
Consensus, diversity, and learning in organizations.

Organizational learning, like individual learning, involves the development of new and diverse interpretations of events and situations. Unlike individual learning, however, collective learning also involves developing enough consensus around those diverse interpretations for organized action to result. Traditional measures of organizational consensus are unable to capture the multiplex nature of collective agreement that encompasses both unity and diversity. Traditional wisdom thus suggests that to achieve unity in groups, one must sacrifice diversity. This study breaks the notion of consensus into two component parts: consensus around interpretations embedded in the content and in the framing of communications. Communicated content consists of the labels people use to convey their “pictures” of reality, e.g., pictures of issues as threats or as opportunities. The framing of communications refers to the form people use to construct a picture, regardless of its content, e.g., rigid or flexible perceptions...
Angular momentum of Arctic Ocean tides

Oceanic tidal angular momentum (OTAM) is calculated for the four major tides of the Arctic Ocean, based on the tidal elevations and current velocities from a recent two-dimensional numerical hydrodynamic model. The presented OTAM tables are meant to be complementary to other modeling studies that use satellite altimetry (which cannot observe Arctic Ocean tides because of ice cover and limited satellite inclinations). Although the Arctic Ocean's influence on earth rotation is, as may be expected, relatively small, the rapid advancement of the subject now calls for such small contributions to be explicitly accounted for.
Performance of shell elements in modeling spot-welded joints

The numerical performance of general shell elements in modeling spot-welded joints is investigated. Finite element meshes composed of purely three-dimensional (3D) elements and purely general shell elements are used to analyze the stress and deformation fields in a symmetric coach-peel spot-welded specimen and their solutions are compared in detail. It is found that a properly refined finite element mesh of general shell elements can produce stress and deformation solutions comparable to those generated by a similarly refined mesh of 3D solid elements. The findings of this paper have direct implications to the analysis of sheet metal structures with spot-welded joints (such as automotive structures).
Effects of total ammonia on anaerobic digestion and an example of digestor performance from cattle manure-protein mixtures

Abstract Anaerobic digestion of dairy cattle manure slurries was performed at different total ammonia concentrations, c. 50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 m m . Digestor performances, i.e. daily methane yields, volatile acid concentrations, pH and relative rates of utilization of acetate, propionate and glucose were monitored. Rates of utilization were determined prior to, during initial time periods following a change in total ammonia concentration and after acclimation had occurred. Digestor performances indicated inhibition occurred, followed by return to steady-state performance. Relative rates of acetate utilization were most affected by changes in total ammonia concentrations. Thus, we concluded that methanogenic metabolism was primarily inhibited by a high concentration of total ammonia. Anaerobic digestion of manure-bovine serum albumin as an example of manure containing high concentrations of proteinaceous material was also performed at three different added protein concentrations. Digestor instability was proportional to protein concentration.
Pulse shape discrimination and energy response of calcium tungstate crystals

Abstract The scintillation response of calcium tungstate crystals to gamma rays, protons and alpha particles has been studied. It is shown that there is a difference in shape between gamma-ray and alpha-particle pulses, and that this effect may be exploited to discriminate between particles.
Chlorophyll Formation and Photosynthetic Competence in Euglena During Light-Induced Chloroplast Development in the Presence of 3, (3,4-dichlorophenyl) 1,1-Dimethyl Urea (DCMU)

The possibility that photosynthetic competence is gratuitous for light-induced chloroplast development in Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris was examined by incubating dark-grown resting cells in the light with DCMU, an inhibitor of photosynthesis. Under these conditions photosynthetic carbon dioxide fixation was inhibited essentially completely at all times during chloroplast development, but about 70% of the chlorophyll was formed with essentially the same pattern of accumulation found for cells incubated in the absence of the inhibitor. Electron microscopy of cells incubated with DCMU in the light revealed the formation of morphologically recognizable chloroplasts having comparable overall dimensions and structural elements to those found in normally developed chloroplasts, but frequently lacking a readily detectable pyrenoid with paramylum sheaths, and often containing increased numbers of discs per lamella. Such abnormalities are considered minor since upon removal of DCMU by centrifugation, the cells usually regained almost full photosynthetic competence on a chlorophyll basis.It is concluded that photosynthetic competence is not necessary for chloroplast development in Euglena and supports the hypothesis, already suggested from other evidence, that light induction results in activation of synthetic machinery external to the developing chloroplast.
Expression and regulation of histidine decarboxylase mRNA expression in the uterus during pregnancy in the mouse

It has been hypothesized that hormonally regulated histamine production plays a role in preparation of the uterus for implantation. Histidine decarboxylase (HDC) is the rate-limiting enzyme for histamine production. The current study was designed to determine intrauterine expression of HDC mRNA expression during pregnancy in the mouse. High levels of HDC mRNA expression were observed in the preimplantation mouse uterus with peak expression occurring on day 4. High levels of HDC mRNA expression were also detected in the post-implantation uterus. In an effort to determine whether HDC mRNA is regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, the HDC mRNA pattern was compared to intrauterine expression of mRNA's for interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha), IL-1beta, macrophage chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and RANTES (regulated on activation, normal T expressed and secreted) during the peri-implantation period. IL-1beta, MCP-1 and RANTES mRNA levels were increased in the uterus on days 1-2 and on days 4-5. Increased expression of IL-1alpha mRNA was observed on days 1-2 and days 5-7. There was no clear relationship between HDC mRNA expression and cytokine/chemokine mRNA expression. Progesterone-stimulated intrauterine expression of HDC mRNA. Intrauterine cytokine/chemokine mRNA was also hormonally regulated. This data allowed the possibility that one or more of these pro-inflammatory cytokines could be involved in regulating intrauterine HDC mRNA production. Recombinant IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, MCP-1 and RANTES all failed to induce HDC mRNA expression in the preimplantation uterus in a mouse pseudopregnancy model. At the same time, IL-1beta induced the expression of mRNA for each of the four cytokines/chemokines. Despite the fact that these were also produced in the uterus during pregnancy and were hormonally regulated, none of these cytokines induced intrauterine HDC mRNA expression. The data suggest that progesterone is involved in the regulation of HDC mRNA expression in the preimplantation uterus, but IL-1alpha/beta, MCP-1 and RANTES, which have been reported to regulate histamine synthesis during inflammatory processes, do not appear to play a role.
Working Wives: Their Impact on Perceptions of Role Competency of Middle‐Age Husbands

The impact of the employment of the wife on the middle-age man's perceptions of competency in the provider role and the husband role was explored in this study. Pro portional for the area in race and socioeconomic status, the sample of 175 married men, 25 to 55 years of age, employed in business or industry, were interviewed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. An analysis of variance was used to statistically test for significant factors. The employment status of the wife had no significant impact on perceptions of husband competence or provider competence. The interaction of race and employ ment status of the wife was significant to perceived competence in the provider role. White husbands perceived themselves as most competent providers when wives held blue collar jobs, while black husbands perceived themselves as most competent providers when wives held white collar jobs.
Children's Interpersonal Perceptions as a Function of Sociometric and Peer-Perceived Popularity

Abstract This study extends previous research on the distinction between sociometric popularity and peer-perceived popularity among middle school children. The accuracy and consensus of children's perceptions regarding popularity were examined. A sample of 135 4th- and 5th-grade children (81 girls and 54 boys) answered questions about whom they liked, whom they disliked, who they believed was popular, and who they believed was unpopular in their class. Consistent with past research, results showed a discrepancy between classifications based on sociometric popularity and those based on peer-perceived popularity. Furthermore, girls demonstrated somewhat higher levels of accuracy than boys in identifying who was perceived as popular or unpopular by the class, and unpopular children evidenced less consensus with the rest of the class in whom they liked and disliked. Results are discussed in terms of the predictive utility of the alternative form of classification based on children's perceived status rather th...
Nurturing a Culture of Change: Creativity and Docents

In late 2006, the Columbus Museum of Art adopted a new framework that established creativity as the lens for learning and visitor experiences. However, the museum's most passionate and supportive advocates, docents, were not necessarily aligned with this new direction. This article explores how staff worked to gain docent support and advocacy for a new educational vision, and what strategies were employed to build a docent culture that values thinking.
Cytotoxic and Anti-cancer Effects of Nickel Nanowires against Pancreatic Cancer Cells

Cytotoxicity study of magnetic nanomaterials is a key consideration for biomedical applications. Very little is known about the cytotoxic and anti-cancer effects of nickel nanowires (Ni NWs) on mammalian cells and their interaction with proliferating cancer cells. Current therapeutics do not address the full heterogeneity of pancreatic cancers due to the resistance to apoptosis and does not suffice for a successful treatment. Therefore, synthesis of novel anticancer drugs continues to be a potential topic for pancreatic cancer research. In this study, we have investigated the cellular toxicity and anti-cancer effects of Ni NWs in one of the most aggressive human pancreatic ductal cancer (Panc-1) cell lines with the objective of development of a potential treatment strategy. Ni NWs were fabricated in a custom-made setup utilizing the electrodeposition method. Elemental analysis, crystallographic structure, and morphological properties of the synthesized Ni NWs were investigated using Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX), X-Ray Diffraction (X-RD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. Panc-1 cell cultures were maintained according to a slightly modified American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) protocol. Morphological apoptogenic characteristics assessment of the Ni NWs induced Panc-1 cell was accomplished using phase contrast microscopy (PCM). Two commercially available cytotoxicity procedures including 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and trypan blue (TB) assays were utilized to determine the qualitative and quantitative cytotoxicity and anti-cancer effects of Ni NWs. As a negative control, Panc-1 cells without Ni NWs treatment were used in all experiments. Phase contrast microscopy (PCM) was used to confirm the Ni NWs internalization by Panc-1 cells. Both the MTT and TB assays, qualitatively and quantitatively confirmed the cytotoxic and anti-cancer effects of Ni NWs treated Panc-1 cells in vitro in both concentration and exposure-time dependent manners. We studied the cytotoxic and anti-cancer effects of Ni NWs on Panc-1 cells using novel integrated bionanotechnological approaches to understand the corresponding biological pathway with the objective of developing pancreatic cancer treatment. More specifically, we explored the molecular mechanisms associated with the pathway involved in Ni NWs induced toxicity against Panc-1 cells. Our results demonstrated that Ni NWs show strong candidacy for targeting cell selective applications in pancreatic cancer therapy. Key words: Nickel Nanowires, anti-cancer effects, pancreatic cancer.
OPTIMAL CNN TEMPLATES FOR LINEARLY-SEPARABLE ONE-DIMENSIONAL CELLULAR AUTOMATA

In this tutorial, we present optimal Cellular Nonlinear Network (CNN) templates for implementing linearly-separable one-dimensional (1-D) Cellular Automata (CA). From the gallery of CNN templates presented in this paper, one can calculate any of the 256 1-D CA Rules studied by Wolfram using a CNN Universal Machine chip that is several orders of magnitude faster than conventional programming on a digital computer.
Abstract 1764: Inhibition of R-spondin (RSPO) signaling reduces the growth of multiple human tumors

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Deregulation of the canonical Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway has long been associated with cancer. Intracellular components of this pathway, including Axin, APC, and beta-catenin are frequently mutated in a range of human tumors. The identity of specific extracellular ligands that contribute to human cancer development through this signaling axis has remained unclear. Molecular characterization of the secreted beta-catenin signaling activities produced by minimally passaged human tumor xenograft models identified RSPO family members produced by multiple tumor types including ovarian, pancreatic, colon, breast and non-small cell lung cancer. In human tumor xenograft models that had RSPO overexpression, in some instances due to genomic translocation, anti-RSPO treatment markedly inhibited tumor growth. In addition, striking combination activity with standard of care chemotherapy agents resulted in regression of established tumors. These results highlight the potential for therapeutic intervention with this newly appreciated signaling axis. Citation Format: Austin Gurney, Fumiko Axelrod, Chris Bond, Jennifer Cain, Cecile Chartier, Marcus Fischer, May Ji, Chris Murriel, Janak Raval, Jalpa Shah, Min Wang, Wan-Ching Yen, Ann Kapoun, John Lewicki, Timothy Hoey. Inhibition of R-spondin (RSPO) signaling reduces the growth of multiple human tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1764. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1764
Finding Causal Interactions in Video Sequences

This paper considers the problem of detecting causal interactions in video clips. Specifically, the goal is to detect whether the actions of a given target can be explained in terms of the past actions of a collection of other agents. We propose to solve this problem by recasting it into a directed graph topology identification, where each node corresponds to the observed motion of a given target, and each link indicates the presence of a causal correlation. As shown in the paper, this leads to a block-sparsification problem that can be efficiently solved using a modified Group-Lasso type approach, capable of handling missing data and outliers (due for instance to occlusion and mis-identified correspondences). Moreover, this approach also identifies time instants where the interactions between agents change, thus providing event detection capabilities. These results are illustrated with several examples involving non-trivial interactions amongst several human subjects.
A proton shadow camera using CR-39 track detectors☆

Abstract We have developed a capability for imaging proton sources of moderate energy (6 MeV), with moderate spatial resolution (≅ 9 μm), as a diagnostic for laser fusion research. Our technique involves the use of Fresnel zone plate coded imaging coupled with nuclear track detectors (CR-39). We report on a series of test experiments in which a zone plate shadow camera successfully produced images of a proton source distribution. The zone plate shadow patterns were optically reconstructed in higher order producing diffraction-limited point response images with FWHM values of ≅ 9 μm for a 6 MeV proton source.
Probing protein structure by amino acid‐specific covalent labeling and mass spectrometry

For many years, amino acid-specific covalent labeling has been a valuable tool to study protein structure and protein interactions, especially for systems that are difficult to study by other means. These covalent labeling methods typically map protein structure and interactions by measuring the differential reactivity of amino acid side chains. The reactivity of amino acids in proteins generally depends on the accessibility of the side chain to the reagent, the inherent reactivity of the label and the reactivity of the amino acid side chain. Peptide mass mapping with ESI- or MALDI-MS and peptide sequencing with tandem MS are typically employed to identify modification sites to provide site-specific structural information. In this review, we describe the reagents that are most commonly used in these residue-specific modification reactions, details about the proper use of these covalent labeling reagents, and information about the specific biochemical problems that have been addressed with covalent labeling strategies.
Establishing Individualized Goals in a Supported Education Intervention: Program Influences on Goal-Setting and Attainment

Objectives: Support for goal-setting and attainment is a frequent component of social work interventions aimed at fostering client growth. This study investigated goal-setting and attain- ment in the Michigan Supported Education Research Project, an intervention that provides sup- port for adults with psychiatric disabilities to engage in postsecondary education. Method: An experimental design with three conditions was used and data was collected at five time points. The sample included 397 adults. Results: Results indicate increased complexity of goal state- ments over time. Goals became more specific for those in the treatment conditions and for those who were high participants. Multivariate models found that selecting school as the most impor- tant goal was a significant factor in predicting later enrollment. Conclusions: Interventions can influence the goals that are set by individuals. Because of its importance to social work practice, researchers and practitioners should pay more explicit attention to goal-setting.
Multivariate statistical techniques for parallel performance prediction

Performance prediction can play an important role in improving the efficiency of multicomputers in executing scalable parallel applications. An accurate model of program execution time must include detailed algorithmic and architectural characterizations. The exact values for critical model parameters such as message latency and cache miss penalty can often be difficult to determine. This research uses multivariate data analysis to estimate the values of these coefficients in an analytical model. Representing the coefficients as random variables with a specified mean and variance improves the utility of a performance model. Confidence intervals for predicted execution time can be generated using the standard error values for model parameters. Improvements in the model can also be made by investigating the cause of large variance values for a particular architecture. >
Pavlovian Fear Conditioning Activates a Common Pattern of Neurons in the Lateral Amygdala of Individual Brains

Understanding the physical encoding of a memory (the engram) is a fundamental question in neuroscience. Although it has been established that the lateral amygdala is a key site for encoding associative fear memory, it is currently unclear whether the spatial distribution of neurons encoding a given memory is random or stable. Here we used spatial principal components analysis to quantify the topography of activated neurons, in a select region of the lateral amygdala, from rat brains encoding a Pavlovian conditioned fear memory. Our results demonstrate a stable, spatially patterned organization of amygdala neurons are activated during the formation of a Pavlovian conditioned fear memory. We suggest that this stable neuronal assembly constitutes a spatial dimension of the engram.
Policy Responses to Substance Abuse and Disability A Concept Paper

Some groups within our society are at a greater risk for the abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) than other groups are. People with disabilities or others with special needs are identified as high-risk groups. Although this reality is generally recognized by agencies serving these individuals, it is not always clear how an agency should respond to these needs. General substance abuse policies and procedures may not be appropriate for some populations or settings. Unique approaches are called for, but there are few sources of information on this topic. Here we present a concept paper regarding the establishment of such policies and procedures.
Geometry Optimization and Ground-State Properties of Complex Ceramic Oxides

The crystal structures of the several complex oxides including MgAl 2 O 4 , α-Al 2 O 3 , θ-Al 2 O 3 , r-Al 2 O 3 , Y 2 O 3 , Y 3 Al 5 O 12 , and YAlO 3 are fully optimized by means of first-principles total energy calculations with relaxation of all internal parameters. This is achieved by the implementation of a simple scheme based on the finite difference method for the energy gradient. In most cases, the predicted lattice constants are within 0.5% of the experimental values. The bulk moduli and the pressure coefficients for these crystals are calculated from fitting the energy vs volume data to the equation of state. Because all of the internal parameters of the crystal are optimized at different volumes, the calculated ground-state properties are found to be in excellent agreement with measured data. For the polymorphs of the Al 2 O 3 system, comparison to other existing calculations are made and discussed.
Economics, economists, and public policy<

Abstract This article examines the role of economics and economists in shaping public policy by, first, examining the employment of economists in government, academe, and the private sector. In the United States, only a minority of Ph.D. economists (about 12 percent) are employed in government, and several important departments of the federal government employ few economists. The article goes on to illustrate the pitfalls that economists face in assisting and advising with public policy by examining the adoption of statistical profiling in Unemployment Insurance. The article concludes that, if the economics profession and economic research are to be effective in shaping public policy, then academic economists must become more directly involved with policy makers in government and decision makers in business.
Writer profiling using handwriting copybook styles

Handwriting originates from a particular copybook style such as Palmer or Zaner-Bloser that one learns in childhood. Since questioned document examination plays an important investigative and forensic role in many types of crime, it is important to develop a system that helps objectively identify a questioned document's handwriting style. We proposed a handwriting analysis system that can assist a document examiner in the identification of the writer's handwriting style and therefore of his/her origin or nationality. We collected 33 English alphabet copybook styles from 18 countries. Here, we extend the analysis using several data mining techniques to discover important information that can be gleaned from a handwriting copybook style image database, e.g., the most information bearing alphabet characters for the purpose of copybook style identification and the relationship between geographical regions and similarity based clusters of copybook styles.
A preliminary investigation of thermal ice pressures

Abstract Measured ice stress data are needed to verify and improve thermal ice thrust prediction models used in estimating ice forces on dams, bridge piers, locks and other hydraulic structures. During February and March, 1983, thermal ice pressures were measured in the ice on a small lake in central New Hampshire. Even though the ice sheet was relatively warm and only exhibited small changes in temperature, stresses up to 200 to 300 kPa were recorded with a newly designed biaxial ice-stress sensor. Ice stresses normal and parallel to the shore of the lake were similar. Given the rate of change of temperature of the ice, ice pressures were calculated for the measurement period using a uniaxial rheological model consisting of a spring and nonlinear dashpot connected in series. Calculated and measured stresses were in good agreement.
Social effects of diazepam use: A longitudinal field study☆

A longitudinal panel study examined the effects of actual use of diazepam (Valium" ) on subjective reports of life quality, affect. performance, stress, social support, control. coping and other variables related to mental health. Standardized interviews were conducted with 675 persons from the Detroit Metropolitan Area. Based on prescription records, diazepam users and nonusers were selected to represent a variety of sociodemopraphic characteristics rather than lo be a completely random sample. Significant pthers in work and in personal life were also interviewed. Four interviews took place. one approximately every 6 weeks. Testing for social effects was conducted by within- and across-person analyses of 367 respondents who reported taking the medication at some time during the study and by comparisons with 308 respondents who did not report taking Valium. Users of Valium tended 10 take less Valium than prescribed. They also reported consuming less alcohol when using Valium than at other times and less than non-Valium users. Although there was a modest. positive cross-sectional relation between Valium use and distress. numerous multivariate analyses controlling for levels of stress and health indicated no notable effects of Valium use on any of the social or psychological indicators. including anxiety. Several interpretations of the results are examined including the possibility that the effects of Valium use were short-lived rather than long-term and that Valium may have been taken in anticipation of anxiety rather than after its occurrence. INTRODUCTlON