cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coming In? The Evolution of the Transsexual Memoir in the Twenty-First Century

Beginning with Jay Prosser's Second Skins: The Body Narratives of Transsexuality, scholars have rightly treated gender transition narratives as cultural objects distinct from homosexual coming-out stories; however, existing scholarship rarely sets these two objects against each other for comparison and contrast. This study examines the evolution of transgender memoir with an eye for comparison to the coming-out story. Central questions include: How are gender transition narratives affected by transgender authors' perceived need to prove their gender identity to public audiences? Has the development of transgender self writing been hindered by the unique concern about using the “correct” language required by clinicians to receive medical treatment? Most importantly, how does the issue of “passing”—living convincingly enough in a target gender that one is not effectively “out”—change how authors define their goals on both a personal and a political level? Is the goal to come out or to come in? This article focuses on gender transition narratives published in the twenty-first century, demonstrating how the genre has changed by examining several texts, including Jennifer Finney Boylan's She's Not There and Jamison Green's Becoming a Visible Man. I conclude that the gender transition narrative has grown away from the imposed medical narrative of the twentieth century as transsexual memoirists have claimed the role of authors of their own lives. In the process the transsexual experience itself has changed, and the gender transition narrative is growing to resemble the coming-out story more than ever before
Burial diagenesis of argillaceous sediment, south Texas Gulf of Mexico sedimentary basin: A reexamination

Cuttings from a well through a thick section of Miocene–Oligocene mudrocks from Kenedy County, Texas, spanning a depth range of 2130 to 5490 m (7000 to 18 000 ft), have been studied petrographically and geochemically. On the basis of whole-rock chemical analyses, the deepest samples have lost ≈18 wt% (and approximately vol%), mostly as CaCO3, mineral-bound H2O, and SiO2, but including additional Ca, as well as Sr, light rare earth elements (REE) (La, Ce, Nd, Sm), Fe, and Li. K2O and Rb have been added to the deeper rocks. The large chemical changes are accompanied mineralogically by loss of detrital calcite, kaolinite, K-feldspar, Ca-plagioclase, and muscovite, gain of chlorite and albite, and continued reaction of smectitic illite/smectite (I/S) to more illitic (and K-rich) compositions throughout the entire depth interval of the well. The large chemical changes in this thick mud-rich interval almost certainly require advection of water (free convection?) to accomplish the mass transfer. Initial variation in sediment composition is ruled out as a cause of the observed compositional changes with increasing depth because (1) a variety of “immobile” elements (Al2O3, TiO2, Zr, Hf, heavy REE [Er, Yb], Th, and Sc) remain constant relative to each other despite their uneven distribution across various particle size fractions in the sediments; (2) deep Frio shales are unlike Quaternary Gulf of Mexico sediments or average shales; and (3) unreasonable primary mineralogic compositions would be necessary to explain the chemical composition of the deep samples. These results indicate that burial diagenesis of argillaceous sediment can be a considerably more open chemical process than is conventionally assumed, that it can account for the two major chemical cements (calcite and quartz) in associated sandstones, and that it mirrors secular changes in shales throughout geologic time.
3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5−4isomerase activity in the rhesus monkey placenta and fetal adrenal, testis and ovary during late gestation

Abstract 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase Δ 5−4 isomerase (3β-HSDH) was measured in the rhesus monkey ( Macaca mulatta ) placenta, fetal adrenal (whole organ minus medulla), testis and ovary during late gestation (Days 145–162). Activities were evaluated from the conversion of [ 3 H]-pregnenolone to [ 3 H]progesterone. The maximum enzyme velocity (V m ) in adrenal microsomes (100,000 g pellet) was significantly higher (146 nmoles progesterone/h x mg −1 protein) than in microsomes from the other tissues. Testicular V m was greater than either ovarian or placental V m which were not different from one another (11.5 versus 1.9, 1.2 nmoles progesterone/h x mg −1 protein, respectively). Apparent Michaelis-Menten constants in the adrenal, placenta, testis and ovary averaged 1.8,2.5,0.27 and 0.16 μM, respectively. In some cases, substrate inhibition was noted. Estimated dissociation constants for pregnenolone were 2.3 μM (adrenal), 2.1 μM (placenta), 0.74 μM (testis) and 0.13 μM (ovary). 3β-HSDH was less active in a crude mitochondrial preparation from the fetal adrenal (10,000 g pellet) than in microsomes, whereas activity in the placenta and testis appeared to be equally distributed between mitochrondria and microsomes. Rate measurements were consistent with the apparent potentials of these organs to synthesize their characteristic hormones. Thus, 3β-HSDH activity may be an important rate determining step in hormone synthesis. The importance of substrate inhibition in progesterone formation remains to be assessed.
Specificity of synaptic regeneration in the spinal cord of the larval sea lamprey.

1. Pairs of central neurones in large larval sea lampreys were impaled with micro-electrodes and studied for synaptic connexions in both unoperated control animals and animals which had recovered from complete spinal transection. Two identified classes of neurones served as post-synaptic targets: giant interneurones (g.i.s) and lateral cells (l.c.s). Several identified neurone types were tested as potential sources of presynaptic input. 2. When synaptic potentials had short, fixed latencies they also persisted during activation of the presynaptic cell at 3.3-33.3 Hz and were not eliminated after addition of lamprey saline containing high (20 mM) Ca2+. These presumably represented monosynaptic connexions. Variable-latency responses were eliminated by faster rates of stimulation of the presynaptic cell and were mediated via polysynaptic pathways. 3. In control animals, g.i.s received monosynaptic input from more caudal g.i.s in fourteen of thirty-two tested cell pairs. These excitatory post-synaptic potentials (e.p.s.p.s) were composite electrochemical responses. The amplitudes of the earlier electrical component averaged 1.66 +/- 0.24 mV (mean +/- S.E. of mean) and the amplitude of the later chemical component averaged 0.79 +/- 0.05 mV. 4. In operated larvae, eight of forty-seven g.i.-g.i. pairs separated by the transection scar were connected by monosynaptic composite e.p.s.p.s. In these pairs the electrical component averaged 0.84 +/- 0.17 mV (P less than 0.05 vs. control) and the chemical component averaged 1.56 +/- 0.40 mV. The average conduction velocity between these cells was less than that in control g.i.-g.i. pairs (0.93 +/- 0.11 vs. 1.61 +/- 0.25 m/s; P less than 0.01). 5. The l.c.s showed monosynaptic e.p.s.p.s after activation of a subset of the bulbar Muller neurones (B2-4) in seven of twelve pairs. In behaviourally recovered larvae three of twenty-two similar pairs separated by the transection scar were also connected via monosynaptic e.p.s.p.s. The average conduction velocity between these experimental neurones was also less than that in control bulbar-l.c. pairs (1.03 +/- 0.03 vs. 1.58 +/- 0.09 m/s; P less than 0.001). 6. Several types of neurones were either infrequently linked or never connected to g.i.s or to l.c.s in control larvae. In animals which had recovered from a spinal transection, no synaptic connexions were found from such neurones on to g.i.s or l.c.s respectively, in 124 tested cell pairs. In addition, dorsal cells (intraspinal primary sensory neurones) received no synaptic input upon stimulation of the spinal cord before or after transection.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
The male genital system in two species of mysid crustacea.

The male genital systems of two mysids, Archaeomysis grebnitzkii (subfamily Gastrosaccinae) and Neomysis awatschensis (subfamily Mysinae) are described. The testes of both species include a pair of central cords (spermatogonial cells), two sets of lateral sacs, and a set of dorsal-lateral spermatidic pouches in which spermiogenesis takes place. Mature sperm exit dorsally from the pouches into a common U-shaped seminal vesicle, the arms of which extend posteriorly as the right and left vasa deferentia. The emphasis of this study was on the follicle cell-spermatid relationship. Spermatids retain their own cell membranes as do the follicle cells. A bundle of sperm tails extends toward the follicle cell nucleus making several revolutions about the nucleus. Masses of rodlets occupy this tract with the spermatid tails. The tail consists of an outer cylinder with banding in a periodicity similar to collagen protein, and an inner cavity filled with a structureless, dark-staining material. Heads of the spermatozoa differ considerably between the two species. The elongate, reflexed head of Neomysis with its central filament joins the tail at an acute angle. The short cylindrical head of Archaeomysis with its anterior hood-like extension joins the tail directly. The distinctiveness of the sperm types might prove useful for taxonomic purposes. As noted by previous investigators, the number of spermatids per follicle cell shows specificity: Neomysis awatschensis has around 16 spermatids per follicle cell, Archaeomysis grebnitzkii about 100.
Numerical Study of an Observed Orogenic Mesoscale Convective System. Part 2: Analysis of Governing Dynamics

Abstract A detailed analysis of the dynamics and thermodynamics responsible for the structure, growth and propagation of an orogenic mesoscale convective system simulated in two dimensions is made. The process of scale interaction is addressed through Fourier analysis and Reynolds averaging analysis of representative predicted variables, diabatic forcing and momentum acceleration terms. Additional dynamical analysis is accomplished through sensitivity experiments in which Coriolis, diabatic heating and ambient airflow are varied. The general conclusion is that the simulated orogenic development is a geostrophic adjustment process to convective heating which is itself modulated and maintained by orographically induced flow systems. The heating scales range over a nearly continuous spectrum ranging from 10–250 km. The heating occurs in response to primary advective gravity modes. The larger-scale gravity-wave disturbances modulate the smaller scales by organizing mean upward vertical motion patterns. The la...
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: an overview

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) includes a broad spectrum of fat-induced liver injury, ranging from mild steatosis to cirrhosis and liver failure. The presence of obesity and insulin resistance is strongly associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver and a greater risk of advanced disease. We present here a review of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, advances in the diagnosis, and options for treatment.
Optimal liquidation rule and debt in the principal-agent model

Abstract This paper introduces liquidation decisions into the standard principal-agent model. The problem is formulated and the optimal compensation and liquidation rules are characterized. It is also shown that, under an assumption about the distribution function of the output, debt can be used to implement the optimal liquidation rule.
Encoding of episodic information through fast task-irrelevant perceptual learning.

Abstract The mechanisms guiding our learning and memory processes are of key interest to human cognition. While much research shows that attention and reinforcement processes help guide the encoding process, there is still much to know regarding how our brains choose what to remember. Recent research of task-irrelevant perceptual learning (TIPL) has found that information presented coincident with important events is better encoded even if participants are not aware of its presence (see Seitz & Watanabe, 2009 ). However a limitation of existing studies of TIPL is that they provide little information regarding the depth of encoding supported by pairing a stimulus with a behaviorally relevant event. The objective of this research was to understand the depth of encoding of information that is learned through TIPL. To do so, we adopted a variant of the “remember/know” paradigm, recently reported by Ingram, Mickes, and Wixted (2012) , in which multiple confidence levels of both familiar (know) and remember reports are reported (Experiment 1), and in which episodic information is tested (Experiment 2). TIPL was found in both experiments, with higher recognition performance for target-paired than for distractor-paired images. Furthermore, TIPL benefitted both “familiar” and “remember” reports. The results of Experiment 2 indicate that the most confident “remember” response was associated with episodic information, where participants were able to access the location of image presentation for these items. Together, these results indicate that TIPL results in a deep enhancement in the encoding of target-paired information.
Chiral perturbation theory for gradient flow observables

We construct the next-to-leading-order chiral Lagrangian for scalar and pseudoscalar densities defined using the gradient flow, for flow times much smaller than the square of the pion wavelength. We calculate the chiral condensate and the pion decay constant to this order from operators at positive flow time, and confirm results obtained earlier in the chiral limit. We also calculate the quark-mass dependence of the scales ${t}_{0}$ and ${w}_{0}$ defined from the scalar gluon density and find that nonanalytic terms in the quark mass only enter at next-to-next-to-leading order.
Akt Promotes Survival of Cardiomyocytes In Vitro and Protects Against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mouse Heart

Background—IGF-1 has been shown to protect myocardium against death in animal models of infarct and ischemia-reperfusion injury. In the present study, we investigated the role of the IGF-1–regulated protein kinase Akt in cardiac myocyte survival in vitro and in vivo. Methods and Results—IGF-1 promoted survival of cultured cardiomyocytes under conditions of serum deprivation in a dose-dependent manner but had no effect on cardiac fibroblast survival. The cytoprotective effect of IGF-1 on cardiomyocytes was abrogated by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) inhibitor wortmannin. Wortmannin had no effect on cardiomyocyte viability in the absence of IGF-1. IGF-1–mediated cytoprotection correlated with the wortmannin-sensitive induction of Akt protein kinase activity. To examine the functional consequences of Akt activation in cardiomyocyte survival, replication-defective adenoviral constructs expressing wild-type, dominant-negative, and constitutively active Akt genes were constructed. Transduction ...
The Traumatic Stress Institute Belief Scale as a Measure of Vicarious Trauma in a National Sample of Clinical Social Workers

(TSI)-Revision L (Traumatic Stress Institute, 1994) as a measure of vicarious trauma in a random sample of master' s level clinical social workers. Forty-nine items from six subscales of the TSI were used. The scale purports to measure disturbed beliefs that may be caused by direct traumatic experience or repeated exposure to details of clients' traumatic stories. Results of correlational analyses of the TSI score with study variables and exploratory multiple regression analysis on the TSI score indicate its association with younger age, more reported somatic symptoms, lower annual salaries, lower scores on the Perceived Social Support (PSS)-Friends subscale (Procidano & Heller, 1983) and greater burnout as measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Maslach & Jackson, 1986). TSI scores were not associated with social workers' personal trauma history, their reported weekly amount of face-to-face client contact, or a self-report of the level of intrusiveness of client material into the social workers' lives...
Mandibular motor control during the early development of speech and nonspeech behaviors.

Purpose The mandible is often portrayed as a primary structure of early babble production, but empiricists still need to specify (a) how mandibular motor control and kinematics vary among different...
Passage of 17 kDa calmodulin through gap junctions of three vertebrate species

Abstract Gap junctions of some vertebrates are capable of passing the elongate molecule, calmodulin, with a molecular weight 8–17 times greater than the previously recognized size limits. Fluorescently labeled calmodulin (FCaM) (17.34 kDa) microinjected into oocytes of ovarian follicles from an amphibian, Xenopus laevis , and from two species of teleost fish, Danio rerio (Zebrafish) and Oryzias latipes (Medaka), is shown to transit their gap junctions and enter the surrounding epithelial cells. Passage of FCaM was terminated when follicles were first treated with 1 mM octanol, a molecule known to down-regulate gap junctions. There was no FCaM detected in the surrounding medium, nor did epithelial cells become fluorescent when follicles were incubated in medium containing dye. Calmodulin is well known to modulate many cytoplasmic reactions; thus, its passage through gap junctions opens possibilities of additional means by which cells may be supplied with this signaling molecule, and by which their supply may be regulated.
Tachinid (Diptera: Tachinidae) Parasitoid Diversity and Temporal Abundance at a Single Site in the Northeastern United States

Although tachinids are one of the most diverse families of Diptera and represent the largest group of nonhymenopteran parasitoids, their local diversity and distribution patterns of most species in the family are poorly known. In this study, 2 yr of samples from a Malaise trap were used to analyze the local richness and temporal distribution of a tachinid community in southwestern Ohio. In total, 883 tachinid specimens were collected, consisting of 117 species belonging to 69 genera. The majority of the specimens were collected in fall, followed by summer and spring, with 67, 22, and 11%, respectively. Estimated rarefaction curves indicate a predicted species richness of 217 species and suggest that we have sampled only a fraction of the diversity of Tachinidae occurring at this particular site. The species recorded in this study represent 16 and 19% of the species that are likely to occur in the northeastern United States and Ohio, respectively. In North America, there have been few, if any, previous attempts to quantify the diversity of tachinids on a local scale. Our results provide a baseline for understanding the temporal and spatial diversity of these ecologically and agronomically important parasitoids.
MMPI traits of incestuous fathers

Compared MMPI scores of a group of 10 documented incestuous fathers and stepfathers to those of a matched control group of nonincestuous fathers. Analyses of variance and covariance reflected more pathological scores for incest fathers than control fathers on the psychopathic deviate scale, the psychasthenia scale and the schizophrenia scale of the MMPI. Results were discussed in terms of a character disordered personality type among incestuous fathers.
Severity, timing, and duration of welfare sanctions and the economic well-being of TANF families with children

Abstract Welfare sanctions have taken on greater significance under TANF because of their increased incidence and severity. Using Wisconsin longitudinal administrative data, this study applied event history analysis to the relationship between welfare sanctions and the economic well-being of TANF families with children. Specifically, it investigated whether this relationship varies by severity, timing, and duration of sanctions. The results indicate that families with children who are currently being sanctioned are at significantly increased risk of leaving welfare without a job. However, the different levels of and duration of current sanctions affect welfare exit and employment outcomes differently. That is, those families receiving a small sanction are significantly less likely to leave welfare regardless of post-welfare employment status, while the risk of leaving welfare without a job or with a lower earnings job increases with the severity and duration of the sanctions. Moreover, previous sanction experience appears to be significantly associated with an increased probability of leaving welfare without a job or with a low-earnings job, suggesting that sanctions have lagged effects on employment outcomes. These findings have important implications for social work practice and policy.
"Sold, Not Bought: How Market Orientation Drives Acquisitions of Private Biotechnology Ventures"

Previous research on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) has typically adopted the perspective of the acquirer (incumbent firm). We focus instead on the young, small technology ventures that are the tar...
WHAT MAKES A LANGUAGE HARD

Author's Summary.— An attempt to bring out, in lighter vein, a practical difficulty in language teaching that is often overlooked or at least not appraised at its true value.
Femoral bone structural geometry adapts to mechanical loading and is influenced by sex steroids: the Penn State Young Women's Health Study.

We used 10 years of longitudinal data from Penn State Young Women's Health Study to explore predictors of adult bone structural geometry and strength. One hundred twelve participants were enrolled in the study at age 12. We report findings on the 76 participants who remained in the study for 10 years. Measurements were recorded biannually for the first 4 years and annually thereafter. Proximal femur DXA scans (Hologic QDR 2000) were taken from 17-22 years and analyzed using a hip structure analysis program to assess areal bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm 2 ), subperiosteal width, cortical thickness, bone cross-sectional area (CSA), and section modulus (Z) at the narrow neck and femoral shaft. Total body lean mass (g) was measured with DXA total body scans. Nutrition, anthropometry, and sex steroids (testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2)) were measured from ages 12-22 years. Multiple regression models were used to assess predictors of change in bone variables (17-22 years) and absolute bone values (average of age 21 and 22 years, n = 79). Neck Z (+3.1%) and width (+1.3%), but not BMD (0.8%), increased significantly from age 17 to 22 years. At the shaft, all variables increased (+1.0-4.0%, P < 0.01). After controlling for baseline (age 17) height, weight and bone measurement, weight change (neck) or lean mass (shaft), and age of menarche were the primary predictors of change in bone strength. After controlling for height and weight, only lean mass predicted absolute young adult Z at both the neck (r 2 = 0.48, P < 0.01) and the shaft (r 2 = 0.67, P < 0.01). When lean mass was removed from the model, sports exercise score replaced lean mass as a predictor of Z at both neck (r 2 = 0.40, P < 0.01) and shaft (r 2 = 0.60, P < 0.01) sites. For neck and shaft cortical thickness and BMD, both estradiol and sports score/lean mass were positive predictors (r 2 = 0.15-0.40, P < 0.01). For neck bone width, testosterone levels (negative) and lean mass (positive) were significant (r 2 = 0.48). Results were similar for each geometric variable at the shaft site. These data suggest that bone adapts its bending strength primarily to mechanical loading (represented by lean mass and sports exercise score) and that sex steroids are associated with bone geometric structure.
G protein signaling governing cell fate decisions involves opposing Gα subunits in Cryptococcus neoformans

Communication between cells and their environments is often mediated by G protein-coupled receptors and cognate G proteins. In fungi, one such signaling cascade is the mating pathway triggered by pheromone/pheromone receptor recognition. Unlike Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which expresses two Gα subunits, most filamentous ascomycetes and basidiomycetes have three Gα subunits. Previous studies have defined the Gα subunit acting upstream of the cAMP-protein kinase A pathway, but it has been unclear which Gα subunit is coupled to the pheromone receptor and response pathway. Here we report that in the pathogenic basidiomycetous yeast Cryptococcus neoformans, two Gα subunits (Gpa2, Gpa3) sense pheromone and govern mating. gpa2 gpa3 double mutants, but neither gpa2 nor gpa3 single mutants, are sterile in bilateral crosses. By contrast, deletion of GPA3 (but not GPA2) constitutively activates pheromone response and filamentation. Expression of GPA2 and GPA3 is differentially regulated: GPA3 expression is induced by nutrient-limitation, whereas GPA2 is induced during mating. Based on the phenotype of dominant active alleles, Gpa2 and Gpa3 signal in opposition: Gpa2 promotes mating, whereas Gpa3 inhibits. The incorporation of an additional Gα into the regulatory circuit enabled increased signaling complexity and facilitated cell fate decisions involving choice between yeast growth and filamentous asexual/sexual development.
The theory of the Gödel functionals

In [2] we described an arithmetic theory of constructions (ATC) and showed that first-order intuitionistic arithmetic (HA) could be interpreted in it. In [3] we went on to show that the interpretation of HA in ATC is faithful. The purpose of the present paper is to apply these ideas to intuitionistic arithmetic in all finite types. Tait has shown [6] that a conservative extension of HA is obtained by adding the Godel functionals with intuitionistic logic and intensional identity in all finite types. Below we show that this extension remains conservative on the addition of certain axioms of choice which are evident on the intended interpretation of the intuitionistic logical connectives. This theorem (Corollary 6.2 below) was first obtained by a more complicated argument in our dissertation [1]. Some of its implications are discussed in Goodman and Myhill [4]. We assume that the reader is familiar with [2] and [3].
Analytic interpolation problems and lattice filter design

The so-called analytic interpolation problem is addressed and solved. The objective is to find the family of rational interpolants which are analytic in a certain region of the complex plane. It turns out that the usual linear fractional map cannot be used to describe the solution set conveniently. Instead, an affine parametrization formula is proposed as the natural framework to impose analyticity constraint on the interpolants. All solutions of the interpolation problem are characterized in terms of a generating system, which can be obtained efficiently via a fast recursive algorithm. The recursive procedure can be used to update the solutions whenever a new interpolation constraint is added to the input data set. It is shown that the analytic interpolation problem is solvable if and only if the corresponding unconstrained problem is solvable, i.e., if and only if the interpolation data-set is consistent. The above results have many applications in different areas such as stable lattice filter design, channel identification, and Q-parametrization of stabilizing controllers. >
Transmural Heterogeneity of Na+–Ca2+ Exchange: Evidence for Differential Expression in Normal and Failing Hearts

Spatial electrical heterogeneity has a profound effect on normal cardiac electrophysiology and genesis of cardiac arrhythmias in diseased hearts. The Na+–Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) is a key linker, through Ca2+ signaling, between contractility and arrhythmias. Here we characterize the differential transmural expression of NCX in normal and rapid pacing-induced failing canine hearts. Significant transmural heterogeneity of NCX was present in normal hearts, as NCX current density measured at +80 mV was significantly (P<0.05) greater in epicardial (EPI) (5.49 pA/pF) than mid-myocardial (MID) (2.84 pA/pF) and endocardial (ENDO) (2.21 pA/pF) cells. Interestingly, heart failure caused a selective increase in NCX current density (P<0.05) limited to ENDO (by 202%) and MID (by 76%) but not EPI myocytes (P=not significant). The differences in functional expression were associated with changes in both mRNA and protein levels. The normal EPI layer exhibited the greatest NCX mRNA and protein levels compared with MID and END...
Mechanics of thin films and microdevices

This paper discusses the latest developments in nanomechanics of thin films with applications in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and microelectronics. A precise methodology that combines in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM) surface measurements of uniaxially tension-loaded MEMS specimens and strain analysis via digital image correlation (DIC) achieving 0.1 pixel spatial displacement resolution is presented. By this method, the mechanical deformation of thin films was obtained in areas as small as 4 /spl times/ 4 /spl mu/m and with 1-2 nm spatial displacement resolution supporting the derivation of interrelations between the material microstructure and the local mechanical properties. This methodology provided for the first time the values of Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio from specimens with cross-sections as small as 2 /spl times/ 6 /spl mu/m. The value of properties derived via AFM/DIC demonstrated very limited scatter compared to indirect mechanical property measurement methods. The application of this technique on nonuniform geometries resolved nanoscale displacement and strain fields in the vicinity of ultrasharp elliptical perforations achieving very good agreement with finite element models. Furthermore, the stochastic and deterministic material failure properties described via Weibull statistics and fracture toughness, respectively, are illustrated for brittle thin films. Failure initiated at notches was found to be influenced by the local radius of curvature and the stress concentration factor. Precise fracture toughness values for MEMS materials were obtained from MEMS specimens with atomically sharp cracks. These studies were supported by measurements of displacements/strains conducted for the first time in the vicinity of mathematically sharp cracks via the AFM/DIC method. The method can be applied to a variety of thermomechanical reliability problems in multilayered thin films and inhomogeneous/anisotropic materials.
Oral epithelium–Candida glabrata interactions in vitro

Background: Oropharyngeal candidiasis is a common opportunistic infection and Candida glabrata is the second or third most frequently isolated species from oropharyngeal candidiasis lesions, after Candida albicans. The aim of this study was to study the cytokine-inducing and cell-damaging potential of C. glabrata in oral epithelial cells and compare this to C. albicans. Methods: Oral epithelial cell lines and primary gingival epithelial cells were cocultured with C. glabrata strains GDH2269 and 94-11 or C. albicans strains SC5314 and ATCC28366. Supernatants were analysed for the presence of interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-8 and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cytotoxity of different strains was determined using the CytoTox-96 assay. Results: Compared to C. albicans, C. glabrata induced different proinflammatory cytokine responses in oral epithelial cells; a high level of GM-CSF induction was only detected in C. glabrata-infected cells and not in C. albicans-infected cells, regardless of the origin of these cells (cell lines or primary cells) or the strain used. Like C. albicans, C. glabrata induced an IL-1α response by oral epithelial cells, but this response was both strain-dependent and epithelial cell origin-dependent. Unlike C. albicans, C. glabrata failed to induce a strong IL-8 response in any of the cell systems studied. Finally, in these studies C. glabrata showed lower cytotoxicity than C. albicans. Conclusions: C. glabrata is less cytotoxic than C. albicans and induces different proinflammatory cytokine responses in oral epithelial cells.
The Role of Nondeterminism in Computational Model Verification and Validation

Model verification and validation (V&V) is an enabling methodology for the development of computational models that can be used to make engineering predictions with quantified confidence. Model V&V procedures are needed to reduce the time, cost, and risk associated with component and full-scale testing of products, materials, and engineered systems. Quantifying the confidence and predictive accuracy of model calculations provides the decision-maker with the information necessary for making high-consequence decisions. This paper reviews the main concepts involved in model V&V and then focuses on the critical role that nondeterministic analysis plays in the V&V process.
Contact topology and hydrodynamics III: knotted orbits

We employ the relationship between contact structures and Beltrami fields derived in part I of this series to construct a steady nonsingular solution to the Euler equations on a Riemannian S3 whose flowlines trace out closed curves of all possible knot and link types. Using careful contacttopological controls, we can make such vector fields real-analytic and transverse to the tight contact structure on S3. Sufficient review of concepts is included to make this paper independent of the previous works in this series.
Warm spring temperatures induce persistent season-long changes in shoot development in grapevines

†Background and Aims The influence of temperature on the timing of budbreak in woody perennials is well known, but its effect on subsequent shoot growth and architecture has received little attention because it is understood that growth is determined by current temperature. Seasonal shoot development of grapevines (Vitis vinifera) was evaluated following differences in temperature near budbreak while minimizing the effects of other microclimatic variables. †Methods Dormant buds and emerging shoots of field-grown grapevines were heated above or cooled below the temperature of ambient buds from before budbreak until individual flowers were visible on inflorescences, at which stage the shoots had four to eight unfolded leaves. Multiple treatments were imposed randomly on individual plants and replicated across plants. Shoot growth and development were monitored during two growing seasons. †Key Results Higher bud temperatures advanced the date of budbreak and accelerated shoot growth and leaf area development. Differences were due to higher rates of shoot elongation, leaf appearance, leaf-area expansion and axillary-bud outgrowth. Although shoots arising from heated buds grew most vigorously, apical dominance in these shoots was reduced, as their axillary buds broke earlier and gave rise to more vigorous lateral shoots. In contrast, axillary-bud outgrowth was minimal on the slow-growing shoots emerging from buds cooled below ambient. Variation in shoot development persisted or increased during the growing season, well after temperature treatments were terminated and despite an imposed soil water deficit. †Conclusions The data indicate that bud-level differences in budbreak temperature may lead to marked differences in shoot growth, shoot architecture and leaf-area development that are maintained or amplified during the growing season. Although growth rates commonly are understood to reflect current temperatures, these results demonstrate a persistent effect of early-season temperatures, which should be considered in future growth models.
Simple algorithm aggregation improves signal strength based localization

In this paper we propose using algorithm aggregation to improve signal strength based localization performance. Prior work comparing a spectrum of received signal strength (RSS) based localization algorithms concluded that their performance is strikingly similar and none of them manage to localize objects accurately all the time. We, however, show that despite such similarity in average localization accuracy, simple algorithm aggregation can improve performance. Specifically, comparing with point-based algorithms, the performance improvement ranges from 23% (when aggregating 2 algorithms) to 51% (when aggregating all 12 algorithms we consider); comparing with area- based algorithms, aggregation offers comparable accuracy with much higher and directly controllable precision. As a guideline for the practical use of aggregation, our experimentation shows that aggregating any 3 or 4 algorithms out of our 12 algorithms will be able to achieve a good performance gain.
Compressional-wave propagation in porous media saturated with two fluids

A theory of porous media with voids filled by two immiscible fluids should comply with Laplace’s law of capillary pressure at the pore level. For the convenience of practical use, it ideally should also involve only the generic elastic coefficients of the mineral grains and pore-filling fluids and avoid the use of “bulk” coefficients of the dry solid frame, whose measurement involves idealized experiments, or poorly understood “phase-coupling” coefficients. It should be reconcilable with the body of empirical data as well. Such a theory and the resulting propagation of the conventional compressional wave can be deduced from principles of linear elasticity. Although the interfacial tension between the fluids is rigorously included, it turns out to have no effect on the velocity of seismic waves. To be reconcilable with observational data, the theory needs to be modified to (1) postulate a power-law effect of the volume fraction of the solid and fluid phases on the reduction of their elastic moduli contributing to the aggregate value and (2) honor the additivity of fluid compressibilities versus bulk moduli to form the effective bulk modulus of the fluids. Empirical calibration of the constants of the power law is necessary to make the theory applicable to a specific class of rock. Constructed this way for well-cemented rocks such as sandstones or limestones, the theory agrees well with the empirical data describing (1) the bulk modulus of the dry solid frame, (2) the bulk modulus of the solid frame filled with one fluid, both as functions of porosity; (3) the data on wave velocity in such rocks filled with one fluid, as a function of porosity, and (4) the measurements of wave velocity in such rocks filled with air and water, as a function of water saturation.
A Possible Hepatic Hepatic (Hepatorenal) Factor in Gynecologic Mortality

Summary The possibility of the occurrence of the so-called “liver” and “livet-kidney” deaths after gynecologic surgery is discussed, The theory of “hepatic inferiority” and the “liver weakling” is also discussed. Ten deaths after gynecologic surgery are analyzed, and it is painted out that in them a liver factor was an important cause of the fatality, and sometimes the only cause. A method of preventing such deaths is briefly outlined.
The Samaritans in the New Testament

In a painful paradox the word “good” has become forever attached to “Samaritan” by Jesus' Lucan parable (Lk 10:29-37; see 17:16), even while bitter Jewish hostility to this group has continued over the centuries: through the highly redacted polemic against the Samaritans of 2 Kgs 17 (see Sir 50:26) and through Talmudic commentary on it such as that in bKiddushin 75. Dan Jacobson in his recent The Story of the Stories: The Chosen People and Its God sees a “propagandistic … intention” in the parable of the Good Samaritan: It is significant that the passerby who succors the injured man is a Samaritan—i.e., not a Jew, let alone of the priests or levites. (“For Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans,” says the fourth chapter of John, describing a meeting between Jesus and yet another strikingly well-disposed Samaritan.)In the first century, as now, the praise accorded this separated Jewish group in the Christian writings must have rankled those Judean, Galilean and diaspora Jews to whose notice it came. It would have confirmed them in their view of the noṣrim as incorrigibly deviant from halakah. The principle of the ancient world was, “Your friends are my friends and your enemies are my enemies.” The favorable notice given to these enemies of the Jews by Jesus' followers could only have set the movement back in Jewish eyes.
Acoustic Measurements of an Integrated Pulse Detonation Engine with Gas Turbine System

A rig has been designed to integrate an annular array of six pulse detonation engines (PDEs) with a common gas turbine engine. The purpose of this rig is to allow for the examination of the acoustic and performance effects of such integration. The overall effect of this combination is a more compact, simplified engine concept whereby the core (the high pressure compressor, combustor, and high pressure turbine) of a typical gas turbine engine is replaced by the PDE tubes, and combustion occurs in an unsteady manner instead of that which comes from typical steady flow combustors. Success in such integration would result in a more efficient form of combustion that would use less fuel while reducing the weight and cost of the engine dramatically. This paper describes the design of the integration rig, and presents some preliminary pressure history results based on the flow inside the PDE tube, inside the rig itself, and the flow downstream of the turbine to provide an understanding of the behavior of the PDE flow passing through the blades of the turbine.
Mammary Arterial and Venous Concentrations of Serum Insulin in Lactating Dairy Cows

SummaryInsulin averaged 2.6 ng/ml in mammary arterial and venous sera collected from 30 min before to 70 min after milking of cows lactating 5-12 weeks. During the same period in cows lactating 37-57 weeks insulin increased to 3.5 ng/ml. Milking did not affect insulin concentrations during early or late lactation. Arteriovenous (A-V) differences averaged 0.17, 0.14 and 0.22 ng/ml for 30 min before, 0-20 min after and 30-70 min after milking. Stage of lactation (and yield of milk) did not affect A-V differences. Mammary uptakes of insulin averaged 1.6 and 1.4 μg/min in early and late lactating cows, respectively. Maintenance of uptakes of insulin may be associated with uptake of metabolites essential for maintenance of lactation.
Growth Characteristics of a Hamster Cell Line on Collagen Gel

SummaryA previously reported (1) hamster monolayer cell culture derived from a fibro-hemangiosarcoma was grown on firm gels of reconstituted collagen. The gel was cleared without concomitant collagenolysis as judged by the release of labeled soluble collagen peptides from the reconstituted gel. In the final phase, the collagen was condensed. Histological examination of the condensed gel revealed a proliferation of cells showing variations in cell appearance within the gel matrix.
Character Development Within the Relational Developmental Systems Metatheory: A View of the Issues

At this writing, the study of character development is burgeoning, and this special issue provides an overview of why and how the relational developmental systems metatheory frames such growth, particularly growth in theory-predicated research and applications aimed at describing, explaining, and optimizing the development of positive attributes of character (i.e., character virtues). The empirical reports related to character development that are presented in this special issue are all framed by relational developmental systems–based ideas and, together, provide information about the mutually beneficial individual  context relations that are involved in character virtue development across the first three decades of life. A commentary discusses the implications of these studies for the enhancement of relational developmental systems–based character development research, for programs aimed at promoting different facets of character, and for the future growth of a developmental science of character virtues...
Disinfection of Medical Institutions in Yandu District of Yancheng City in 2008

[Objective]To understand the current status of disinfection in medical institutions at different levels,to explore and solve the existed problem in the disinfection of those medical institutions.[Methods]According to "Hygiene Standards of Hospital Disinfection"(GB 15982-1995),the disinfection status of 106 medical institutions was detected in Yandu District from Jan 2008 to Dec 2008.[Results]Of 1811 tested samples,the total qualified rate was 89.34%;that of hospitals at district and township levels,clinics in the factory,school,kindergarten and village was 89.34%,97.40%,92.47%,respectively.The qualified rate of air,pressure steam sterilizer,hands of the medical staff,object surface,medical supplies,disinfectant and UV germicidal lamp was 62.37%,85.29%,87.15%,90.35%,94.93%,95.26% and 95.83%,respectively.[Conclusion]The disinfection of the medical institutions in Yandu District needs to be improved.It's necessary to complete the air disinfection method and the monitoring content.Special attention should be given to the improvement of the equipment conditions of disinfection and quality management in the clinics of factories,schools,kindergartens and villages.
TABLES OF BINARY LOGARITHMS, UNCERTAINTY FUNCTIONS, AND BINARY LOG FUNCTIONS.

Three sets of 4-place tables are presented, one set on each of two facing pages: binary logarithms (log2n) of 3-digit numbers, uncertainty functions (– p log2p) and binary log functions (log2 1/p) for values of p from .001 to .999.
Extended duration strategies for the pharmacologic treatment of diabetic retinopathy: current status and future prospects

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Intraocular pharmacotherapy (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] inhibitors and corticosteroids) has become first-line therapy for diabetic retinopathy (DR). A series of intraocular injections is usually required before disease modulation decreases the treatment burden in some patients, but others with chronic diabetic macular edema may require intensive longer-term therapy.Areas covered: Recent studies showing successful pharmacologic treatment of proliferative DR will probably lead to increased use of pharmacotherapy, thereby further emphasizing the need for longer duration drugs. Recently approved anti-VEGF drugs (aflibercept) and corticosteroids (dexamethasone and fluocinolone inserts) provide extended durations of action. Longer action anti-VEGF molecules, sustained release devices and pumps, and encapsulated cell technology, may further decrease treatment burden, though regulatory approval may not occur for at least 5 years. Oral medications (danazol and minocycline) and ...
Is Intrinsic Motivation Better Than Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation is the driving force that explains why people act and behave as they do. Even though the image of a carrot dangling from the end of a stick in front of a person’s nose is often used as a symbol of motivation, you cannot actually motivate another person. True motivation must come from within—it must be intrinsic. Prizes or awards (extrinsic) may bribe someone into performing a certain action but compliance is not motivation. If you want your group to be successful, intrinsic motivation must be infused into every aspect of group-centered prevention. An intrinsic motivational environment (the group) can actually change a person’s perceived perceptions of self and guide them into changing their behavior. This chapter discusses the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and how to infuse intrinsic motivation into your group-centered prevention program. A case study gives a detailed description of how to use intrinsic motivation. The training session for this chapter gives two examples of groups using extrinsic rewards and shows how to transform these groups by using intrinsic motivation.