cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Local Perceptions of the Sustainability of Alaska’s Highly Contested Cook Inlet Salmon Fisheries

Using a mixed set of ethnographic methods including interviews and a structured survey, we evaluate local perceptions about the sustainability of salmon fisheries among fishers of the Cook Inlet region of Alaska. A majority of residents report participating in these fisheries, but we find significant disagreement about their sustainability. Household income and the types of fishing practiced both influence people's responses, and many implicated specific user groups for overharvesting and/or for receiving unfair catch allocations. Drawing on the theoretical areas of information theory and political ecology, we argue that these findings reveal a complex interplay among the practical, social, and political aspects of how local resource users, or “local experts,” develop and communicate their assessments of ecological conditions in a context of conflict. We conclude with notes on future research as it relates to the successful design of local-management and co-management solutions, especially in settings whe...
Resource estimation for heterogeneous computing

Code-profiling is the process of determining the types of codes found in a given heterogeneous task. Once this information is available, it is desirable to know how many processors are needed for each of the code types. In this paper, we propose two methods for estimating the minimum number of processors required for each of these code types. The first method involves making use of task compatibility graphs. We show that a task compatibility graph can be generated by analyzing certain compatible relations between task module pairs of a given task flow graph. We define the resource (processor) minimization problem therefore to be equivalent to finding the minimal number of cliques that cover the task compatibility graph, or to finding the minimal number of colors that color the vertices of its complement graph, called task conflict graph. We solve this problem using a greedy approach in O(|V|log|V||E|) time, where |V| and |E| are the number of vertices and edges of the task compatibility graph. We further show that for three special types of task compatibility graphs, optimal solution can be obtained in polynomial time. The second method studied in this paper uses the Cluster-M methodology for estimating the minimum number of processors. Examples are shown to compare the estimated results obtained using different techniques.
Spectral- and time-domain optical coherence tomography measurements of macular thickness in normal eyes and in eyes with diabetic macular edema

To report macular thickness values in normal eyes and eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) using time-domain (TD) and spectral-domain (SD) optical coherence tomography (OCT), and to derive a conversion equation. The index study was a prospective investigation conducted on 80 eyes from 40 normal subjects and 130 eyes from 118 patients with DME seen in our clinic. Retinal thickness values from the central 1 mm of the macula and surrounding four ETDRS subfields were acquired using TD-OCT (Stratus OCT) and SD-OCT (SPECTRALIS HRA+OCT). Measurements of the central (C) subfield from both devices were used to derive a conversion equation. The equation was used to predict SD-OCT values using measurements from TD-OCT. Agreement between predicted and actual SD-OCT measurements was assessed. In normal eyes, the mean difference between TD-OCT and SD-OCT measurements of the C subfield was 76 μm (CI95=74 and 77, respectively). The conversion equation, y=1.029x+72.49, was derived. In eyes with DME, using the equation, SPECTRALIS-predicted values were 5% higher than actual measurements, with 95% of predicted values falling within 9% of the actual measurements. Relocating SD-OCT grids to match the location on TD-OCT resulted in predicted values falling within 7% of actual measurements. The percent difference between actual thickness measurements from SPECTRALIS and predicted thickness measurements, using the conversion equation, was within reported limits of repeatability of Stratus in eyes with DME. Our equation may help correlate OCT values from both devices in standard care and clinical trials for DME.
Idiotypic diversity and variable region gene usage by mouse anti-HLA-DQ3 mAb.

The anti-HLA-DQ3 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) KS13, SO1, SO2, SO3, SO4, and SO5 recognize spatially close but distinct antigenic determinants, since they crossinhibit each other in their binding to HLA-DQ3 antigens, but do not share idiotopes recognized in their antigen combining site by syngeneic and anti-id antisera and mAb. Furthermore, mAb SO1, SO3, SO4, and SO5 react also with HLA-DQ allospecificities other than HLA-DQ3. Sequence analysis of the heavy (VH) and light (VL) chain variable region of the six mAb revealed preferential usage of VH 36–60 and VK 12/13 gene families. However, the individual VH and VL germline gene usage by the six mAb is diverse and the utilization of D, JH, and JL gene segments is heterogeneous. The diverse usage of VH and VL gene segments and heterogeneous amino acid sequences of VH and VL CDR, together with the heterogeneous idiotypic profile, may reflect the complexity of the determinants recognized by the six mAb on HLA-DQ3 antigens. The results we have presented provide for the first time information about the structural basis of the diversity of antibodies recognizing human histocompatibility antigens.
APPLICATION OF GREY SYSTEM THEORY IN STUDYING ASPHALT AGING

Grey System Theory is used to study the relationship between the change of compositions of the aged asphalt and the change of its service performance, such as softening point, penetration, and viscosity. The results show that the increase of the asphaltene content and the collapse of the colloidal stability are the main reasons why the service performances of the aged paving asphalt deteriorate. In this paper, the mathematical method is first introduced to the study on the relationship between the change of compositions of the aged paving asphalt and the change of its service performance. The result from Grey System Theory is in accordance with that from the experiential analysis.
Examining Stress Reactivity in Neonates: Relations Between Cortisol and Behavior

The association between cortisol and behavioral reactivity to a medical heel stick and a neurobehavioral exam was examined in 100 healthy African American neonates, who have been underrepresented in this area of research. Using continuous measures, behavioral distress was associated with cortisol reactivity to both stressors. High levels of behavioral distress, however, were associated with cortisol reactivity only in response to the neurobehavioral exam. In contrast, low levels of behavioral distress were associated with cortisol reactivity only in response to the heel stick. The results highlight potentially important parameters for exploring the relation between biological and behavioral reactivity to stress such as the operationalization of behavioral distress and the context in which a stress response is elicited.
Optical characterization of multi-layer thin films using the surface plasmon resonance method: A six-phase model based on the Kretschmann formalism

Abstract A large variety of biological and chemical sensors are based on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique. The procedure for data analysis in this method (which typically involves determination of optical constants and thicknesses of multi-layered thin films) can be considerably simplified by treating the working equations of the SPR device in a phenomenological framework originally introduced by Kretschmann. Although used quite widely, the Kretschmann formalism in its present form has been limited to relatively simple thin film systems – only involving three or four material-phases. In the present work, this formalism is extended to more complex systems that are often encountered in studies of layered nanostructures. The assumptions and implications of the Kretschmann formalism are discussed in detail using a six-phase model of Fresnel reflectivity. The experimental considerations of typical SPR-based sensors are included in this model. The effects of optical absorption within the sample films are also treated. The utility of the six-phase model is demonstrated with calculated results for two recently reported experimental systems.
Radiology of the right ventricle.

The right ventricle (RV) pumps desaturated blood into the low-resistance pulmonary bed at low pressure. Due to its location in the heart and chest, changes in RV morphology secondary to pathologic function may not be demonstrated by direct change in the plain film radiographic contour of the ventricle itself. Plain film evaluation of RV disease is inferential, dependent upon recognition and evaluation of changes in adjacent structures, and in the position of the heart itself. Contrast angiography provides direct demonstration of the ventricular cavity. Rapid, cine acquisition allows evaluation of functional abnormalities and direct demonstration of underlying valvular and myocardial disease. MR imaging techniques not only provide the morphologic and functional information afforded by plain film and contrast angiographic techniques, but also provide the information noninvasively, and in arbitrary tomographic section, allowing direct demonstration of local morphologic abnormalities and their sequelae. Prior to the advent of MR imaging, RV disease and its investigation had been limited and relegated to the clinical backwaters of cardiac imaging, often limited to evaluation in patients with congenital heart disease. The ability safely to visualize the chamber and its function has led to an increase in its use in evaluation of RV disease, supporting awareness of RV disease and its effect on global cardiac function. This article describes the structure and function of the RV, and the changes it undergoes in patients with RV disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease that affect the RV. When sought, changes found on plain film examination are very sensitive, but not very specific. Nevertheless, they should indicate pathophysiologic changes, and suggest further investigation to narrow or refine the differential diagnosis. Use of contrast angiography provides much anatomic and morphologic information, which helps define the problem and allows assessment of its severity. The growing use of MR imaging for the evaluation of patients with RV dysfunction is a consequence of its sensitivity to change, and ability to demonstrate directly the morphologic sequelae of an underlying disease, or the disease itself. Furthermore, it does this noninvasively, without the use of ionizing radiation and intravascular contrast material administration. Thus, we have excellent means of investigating RV disease and dysfunction, and should use these tools to help in the management of this diverse group of patients.
An Interface for Sensitive Analysis of Monoamine Neurotransmitters by Ion-Pair Chromatography–Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry with Continuous Online Elimination of Ion-Pair Reagents

A challenge in coupling ion-pair chromatography (IPC) online with electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) is that the nonvolatile ion-pair reagent (e.g., alkyl sulfate for amines or tetrabutylammonium for carboxylic acids) in the mobile phase suppresses the ESI-MS signals in the gas phase and their accumulation can clog the MS sampling interface. Consequently, IPC–ESI-MS is conducted either with a volatile ion-pair reagent, which could compromise the analyte separation efficiency, or with a downstream ion-exchange column to rid the ion-pair reagents of the mobile phase. In the latter approach, the limited capacity of ion-exchange columns requires frequent off-line column regeneration, which affects the separation throughput and prohibits long separations from being performed. A dual-valve, dual-ion exchange column interface of IPC–ESI-MS is designed for undisrupted separations and simultaneous column regeneration. Owing to the efficacy in removing the ion-pair reagent, the detection of eluents ...
Lethality of Sea Lamprey Parasitism on Lake Sturgeon

Abstract Parasitism by sea lampreys Petromyzon marinus may contribute to the delayed recovery of imperiled populations of lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens in the Great Lakes. Our study objectives were to examine the survival, growth, and condition of four size-classes of lake sturgeon following a single sea lamprey attack. Lake sturgeon from one of four size-groups (I: 470-570 mm fork length; II: 570-650 mm; III: 650-760 mm; and IV: 950-1,500 mm) were individually subjected to a sea lamprey attack in a series of 55 experimental trials. Direct mortality of lake sturgeon, resulting from acute anemia after an attack, was greatest for smaller lake sturgeon (I: 11%; II: 31%; III: 8%; IV: 0%). Similarly, indirect mortality resulting from secondary fungal infection was also size dependent (I: 11%; II: 19%; III: 8%; IV: 0%). No direct relationship was found between attachment duration and host survival; short intense attachments were as likely to result in host mortality as longer attachments. More than 50% of ...
The Impact of Exchange-Rate Uncertainty on Export Growth: Evidence from Korean Data

The statistical relationship between exports and real exchange-rate uncertainty has been examined extensively in recent years for a variety of industrial countries. However, very little, if any, work has been done on developing economies. In this paper, we investigate this relationship for the developing economy of Korea, using multivariate cointegration and error-correction techniques. The major result suggests that real exchange-rate uncertainty has a negative effect on exports in the short-run as well as the long-run. [F14, F31]
PROLEGOMENA TO A THEORY OF SOCIAL CHANGEa

SUMMARY Prolegomena to a Theory of Social Change. The formulation of a general theory of the processes of change of social systems is one of the chief tasks of sociology; none of the models of society currently in vogue provides an adequate basis on which such a theory could be built. The structural-functional analysis of social interaction systems is capable of understanding the majority of the various processes which go under the name of “social change” as processes within a (major) social system whose boundaries may be theoretically determined at will. On the other hand a working definition of a sociology of “social change” is suggested, in which the term will primarily refer to processes of transition from one social system to another. An obstacle to a “dynamic” sociology of this kind appears in the form of the conception of social systems in equilibrium. The inadequacy of functionalism lies in its ontological postulate that the final end of a social system is its own existence, which is derived from a false analogy with the biological law of the preservation of the species. This analogy holds good only for one social system in “Society” as a whole; the functionalist approach does not suffice to explain the existence of any particular social system or type of system as a particular case among any number of possible arrangements, each of which may equally well satisfy the basic needs of man. The criteria for the transition from one social system to another must be sought in the change of social structure. Since the notion of dynamic equilibrium always implies processes changing the relative position of units within the structure, “social change” must be viewed as the changing of changing structures with regard to the essential properties of particular structures. The change of power structure in the form of the substitution of one social stratum through another one as the ruling element has inescapable consequences for the structural arrangement of the total system. To a certain extent Marxian sociology offers univocal criteria which permit identification of social change, but the alternation of ruling classes is not the only significant change of social structure one could think of. Social change should above all be viewed independently of culture change. Both concepts refer to the same total reality, but at different levels of abstraction. The problem of determining the boundaries of cultural units is not solved by identifying any particular culture with the behaviour patterns and/or norm systems of given social groups. The concept of an “integrated culture” is as much a theoretical model as a social system in equilibrium. The essential property of cultural unity consists in a definite, existentially coloured hierarchy of values, the “Weltanschauung”, whose change is the criterion of cultural change. One possibility of correlating social and cultural change arises from the consideration of the underlying world view as one among many essential properties of social systems.
Transplantation of Glial Progenitors That Overexpress Glutamate Transporter GLT1 Preserves Diaphragm Function Following Cervical SCI

Approximately half of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) cases affect cervical regions, resulting in chronic respiratory compromise. The majority of these injuries affect midcervical levels, the location of phrenic motor neurons (PMNs) that innervate the diaphragm. A valuable opportunity exists following SCI for preventing PMN loss that occurs during secondary degeneration. One of the primary causes of secondary injury is excitotoxicity due to dysregulation of extracellular glutamate homeostasis. Astrocytes express glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1), which is responsible for the majority of CNS glutamate clearance. Given our observations of GLT1 dysfunction post-SCI, we evaluated intraspinal transplantation of Glial-Restricted Precursors (GRPs)—a class of lineage-restricted astrocyte progenitors—into ventral horn following cervical hemicontusion as a novel strategy for reconstituting GLT1 function, preventing excitotoxicity and protecting PMNs in the acutely injured spinal cord. We find that unmodified transplants express low levels of GLT1 in the injured spinal cord. To enhance their therapeutic properties, we engineered GRPs with AAV8 to overexpress GLT1 only in astrocytes using the GFA2 promoter, resulting in significantly increased GLT1 protein expression and functional glutamate uptake following astrocyte differentiation in vitro and after transplantation into C4 hemicontusion. Compared to medium-only control and unmodified GRPs, GLT1-overexpressing transplants reduced lesion size, diaphragm denervation and diaphragm dysfunction. Our findings demonstrate transplantation-based replacement of astrocyte GLT1 is a promising approach for SCI.
Ferromagnetism and stability of half-metallic MnSb and MnBi in the strained zinc-blende structure: Predictions from full potential and pseudopotential calculations

We use first principles calculations to study the energy and magnetic moment of MnSb and MnBi in the (equilibrium) nickel arsenide, zinc-blende, and tetragonally distorted zinc-blende structures. We find that the zinc-blende structure is mechanically unstable, i.e., the energy is a relative maximum for $c/a=1$ at fixed volume. We studied the tetragonal structures by fixing the in-plane lattice constant to be equal to that of typical semiconductors (such as GaAs) which might serve as substrates for epitaxial growth and then minimizing the energy as a function of $c/a.$ Over a wide range of $a,$ including that of GaAs, we find half-metallic ferromagnets. We suggest that these structures are much more likely to be achieved as thin films than the cubic zinc-blende phases.
Analysis of bimodal orientation data

Statistical models underlying the analysis of orientation data commonly assume a unimodal symmetric population, such as the circular normal distribution. If the sample distribution is skewed or bimodal, standard procedures usually produce misleading results. Where such situations occur, a mixture of two or more circular normal distributions may be used as the population model. The parameters describing each mode and the mixing proportion may be estimated by the method of maximum likelihood using numerical techniques. This approach is applied to a distinctly bimodal set of cross-bedding data from the Mississippian Salem Limestone of central Indiana.
Using U-Shaped Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors to Compensate for Nonspecific Interactions

We report a simple label-free localized surface plasmon resonance sensor that uses the multiple resonances of a U-shaped gold nanostructure to differentiate the target interaction of interest from background refractive index interference and nonspecific binding of interfering molecules. U-shaped nanostructures were fabricated using electron-beam lithography and their sensing capabilities were tested by introducing different solutions to simulate various specific and nonspecific effects. The three resonances of the nanostructure yield distinct bulk as well as specific and nonspecific surface sensitivities that allow for the differentiation of the three effects.
Adhesion-Induced Instability Patterns in Thin Confined Elastic Film

Adhesion-induced instability has been observed at the interface of a flexible plate and a thin elastic film bonded to a rigid substrate. The surface of the confined film develops undulations almost instantaneously, and instability patterns appear in the form of fingers or bubbles at the interface. The characteristic wavelengths of these instabilities remain independent of all material and geometrical properties of the system except the thickness of the film. These observations contrast sharply with the Saffman−Taylor-type phenomenon in which the length scale of the instability patterns depends on the viscous and surface tension forces in addition to the thickness of the liquid film. The analogy between the phenomenon reported here and the Rayleigh−Kelvin instability with curved liquid menisci is more pronounced, as, in both cases, surface force triggers the instability while not determining its wavelength. The instability also throws light on cavitation phenomena in confined adhesive layers.
Uniform approximation of holomorphic functions on bounded hartogs domains in ℂ2

On etudie l'algebre A(Ω) des fonctions continues sur Ω, qui sont holomorphes dans Ω: approximation uniforme des fonctions de A(Ω) par des fonctions holomorphes dans un voisinage de Ω; question de la densite uniforme dans A(Ω) de l'algebre A∞(Ω) des fonctions regulieres sur Ω qui sont holomorphes dans Ω
Doping Experiments in ZNO

This paper reports on attempts to fabricate transparent electrically conductive p-type ZnO by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and sputtering using N2, N2O and NO gases. Expanding on the work of Kawai and coworkers [1,2], we used an ion source, rather than an ECR source in the PLD chamber to dissociate N2O gas, and explored the use of aluminum in addition to gallium as potential co-dopants. The most promising results have been obtained with DC reactive sputtering of gallium-doped zinc metal targets. A three to six order of magnitude reduction in n-type carrier density was observed when 2% of the argon sputtering gas was replaced with NO.
Lower eyelid reconstruction.

Reconstruction of the lower eyelid seeks to restore both anatomic function and prereconstructive lid aesthetics. A sound understanding of the nature of lower eyelid anatomy and function is required to acheive these goals. The lower eyelid differs in several crucial ways from the upper eyelid, and only by appreciating these differences can optimal lower eyelid surgery be achieved. A multitude of approaches to lower eyelid reconstruction exist. The proper choice of technique is guided by two major factors: size of defect and involvement of anterior or posterior lamellae. Lower eyelid anatomy and function Medial and lateral canthal tendons The lower eyelid has a number of unique anatomic features. The height of the tarsus of the lower eyelid is approximately 3 to 4 mm, far shorter than the 10 to 12 mm found in the upper lid [1]. The lower eyelid is in apposition with the globe for the full length of the eyelid and is suspended on either side by tendinous attachments to the orbital rim. The inferior crus of the lateral canthal tendon inserts just inside the lateral orbital rim at a bony protuberance named Whitnall’s tubercle [2]. The medial canthal tendon attaches to the lacrimal crest both anteriorly and posteriorly. These two portions of the medial canthal tendon envelop the lacrimal sac, which rests in the lacrimal sac fossa [3]. Importantly, it is the posterior portion of the medial canthal tendon that maintains the integrity of medial eyelid support. Functionally, the tarsal plate and its canthal tendon insertions act as a sling for the lower eyelid, referred to as a tarsoligamentous band [4]. This band not only maintains the eyelid in a normal anatomic position, but also supports the globe and orbital contents. The lower eyelid also is subject to the vertical
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR MAN GENERATED POWER

Abstract A scheme is presented for designing man-powered devices for optimal power transfer from human operator to mechanism. This scheme is a mathematical description of human dynamics in terms of components capable of storing and releasing energy. Such a description provides a notion of the information required for the engineering design of man-machine systems and indicates a possible direction for potentially fruitful research. The work conducted by Hill's school, culminating in Wilkie's data demonstrating the measurements and theoretical considerations relating to individual muscle fibres, can be used to predict the performance of the gross anatomy of the body, is reviewed. Data on the efficiency of muscular work and human power output are discussed, In addition, certain data for human power generation by handwheels and pedals are presented in terms of short duration and sustained efforts.
The effect of high and very low fluorescent light exposure levels on age-related cataract in a pigmented mouse strain.

This study examined the effect of fluorescent light on the timing and severity of age-related cataracts in a fully pigmented mouse strain, the (C57BL/6 x C3H)F1, that normally develops slowly progressing age-related cataracts only beyond middle age. Two groups of 56 animals each were exposed, respectively, either to a daily range of 66-222 foot candles (FC) or to 1 FC of standard fluorescent lighting for a period beginning at 5 weeks of age and ending at 33.5 months (by which time approximately 65% of the colony had died). Contrary to previous reports involving albino rats or mice and a strain of pigmented but cataract-prone transgenic mice, the two groups of animals in this experiment did not differ for cataract development in time of first occurrence, rate of advancement, or degree of severity. It was concluded that genetic predisposition, based on levels of oxidative free radical production vs antioxidant enzyme and repair enzyme protection in the lens, was probably the major factor governing the rate and degree of age-related cataract development in these animals. The effect of relatively intense life-long fluorescent light exposure was so minimal as not to be manifested in this strain of mice under the conditions of this experiment. Remarkably, maintaining the one group of mice in semi-darkness from 5 weeks of age to beyond their mean lifespans did nothing to delay or reduce the incidence or severity of their age-related cataracts.
Outer space formation of a laser host glass

Abstract Classical crystallization calculations were performed to determine the possibility of forming a particular type of laser glass with the avoidance of devitrification in an outer space laboratory. Although the laser glass in question readily crystallizes in an earth environment, it is demonstrated that under the homogeneous nucleating conditions obtainable in a zero gravity laboratory this laser glass may be easily quenched to a virtually crystal-free product. Use of this material as a host in a neodymium glass laser would result in a more than 10% increase in efficiency when compared to laser glass rods of similar composition currently commercially available.
Functional tomographic fluorescence imaging of pH microenvironments in microbial biofilms by use of silica nanoparticle sensors.

Attached bacterial communities can generate three-dimensional (3D) physicochemical gradients that create microenvironments where local conditions are substantially different from those in the surrounding solution. Given their ubiquity in nature and their impacts on issues ranging from water quality to human health, better tools for understanding biofilms and the gradients they create are needed. Here we demonstrate the use of functional tomographic imaging via confocal fluorescence microscopy of ratiometric core-shell silica nanoparticle sensors (C dot sensors) to study the morphology and temporal evolution of pH microenvironments in axenic Escherichia coli PHL628 and mixed-culture wastewater biofilms. Testing of 70-, 30-, and 10-nm-diameter sensor particles reveals a critical size for homogeneous biofilm staining, with only the 10-nm-diameter particles capable of successfully generating high-resolution maps of biofilm pH and distinct local heterogeneities. Our measurements revealed pH values that ranged from 5 to >7, confirming the heterogeneity of the pH profiles within these biofilms. pH was also analyzed following glucose addition to both suspended and attached cultures. In both cases, the pH became more acidic, likely due to glucose metabolism causing the release of tricarboxylic acid cycle acids and CO2. These studies demonstrate that the combination of 3D functional fluorescence imaging with well-designed nanoparticle sensors provides a powerful tool for in situ characterization of chemical microenvironments in complex biofilms.
Effects of Acidified Water on the Locomotor Behavior of the Gulf Killifish, Fundulus grandis: A Time Series Approach

Locomotor activity ofFundulus grandis was monitored hourly at four pH levels (7.8, 6.5, 5.0, and 4.0) for 96 hr using infrared photoelectric detection. As an internal control, the activity pattern of each fish was followed for 96 hr in pH 7.8 prior to acidification. Rhythmicity of activity patterns was progressively reduced with increased acidification. Fish became hyperactive in low pH water, particularly during the normal diurnal inactive period in pH 5.0 and 4.0. Time series analysis allowed quantitative determination of the effects of acidity on the normal diel activity pattern and suggested a useful method for detection of subtle changes in an activity regime in response to stress.
In situ monitoring of kinetics of charged thiol adsorption on gold using an atomic force microscope

The adsorption of a charged thiol (HSC10COO-) on gold from its aqueous solutions of different concentration was monitored in situ by probing the surface charge. This was accomplished by measuring the interfacial forces between a modified (with a negatively charged silica sphere) tip of an atomic force microscope and the thiol-adsorbed gold surface as a function of adsorption time. The surface charge and potential were then deduced from the force data. If a Langmuir rate law is employed to fit the overall surface coverage vs time data, average observed adsorption rate constants of 0.045 ± 0.005 (0.5 mM) and 0.020 ± 0.003 (0.05 mM) min-1 were obtained and were dependent on thiol concentration. The self-assembly process was a two-step process, an initial fast step followed by a slow step.
Anterior transcanal tympanoplasty: a novel technique to repair anterior perforations.

OBJECTIVE: To report a novel, minimally invasive technique for anterior tympanic membrane (TM) perforation repair. STUDY DESIGN: A transcanal repair of the anterior TM was performed on 45 patients. METHODS: A total of 689 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media underwent surgical intervention; of these, 45 patients with isolated anterior TM perforations underwent an anterior tympanoplasty. This approach is similar to a transcanal approach for small posterior perforations; an anterior rather than a posterior flap is raised. RESULTS: Perforations ranged from 20 to 50 percent in size. Preoperative air-bone gaps ranged from 5 to 51 dB and averaged 25 dB. Postoperative air-bone gaps ranged from 0 to 33 dB and averaged 14 dB. Of 45 patients, 40 (88%) had closure of their perforations. Data from 1- to 10-year follow-up are provided. CONCLUSIONS: The anterior transcanal tympanoplasty is a minimally invasive technique to repair anterior TM perforations. The procedure is simple and obviates the need for a large postauricular incision.
Effects of naphthalene and benzene on fathead minnows and rainbow trout

Fathead minnows (FHM) and rainbow trout (RBT) were used in flow-through bioassays to determine the acute toxicity of benzene and naphthalene, and to determine the embryo-larval effects of naphthalene on FHM. On an acute basis, naphthalene was more toxic than benzene (naphthalene LC50 values were 1.6 mg/L for RBT and 7.9 mg/L for FHM; benzene LC50 values were 5.3 mg/L for RBT and >15.1 mg/L for FHM). In the embryo-larval test naphthalene significantly (α= 0.05) reduced FHM growth at concentrations as low as 0.85 mg/L. The highest concentration producing no effect was 0.45 mg/L naphthalene, which was 5.7% of the FHM 96-hr LC50. Based upon long-term no-effects naphthalene concentration, the best estimate of the maximum acceptable toxicant concentration (MATC) was >0.45 to <0.85 mg/L naphthalene.
Two mechanisms for IgG uptake in cultured human trophoblast: evidence for a novel high affinity Fc receptor.

Two Mechanisms for IgG Uptake in Cultured Human Trophoblast: Evidence for a Novel High Affinity Fc Receptor
A constructivist analysis of the concept of credibility

(1976). A constructivist analysis of the concept of credibility. Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 62, No. 4, pp. 361-375.
Starting the Same . . . Finishing the Same? Race, Occupational Origins, and Mobility Into Managerial Positions:

Data from the 1994-2001 waves of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics are used to examine the theory of “disparate occupational effects,” which maintains that among men there are race-specific incidence and determinants of intragenerational mobility from the same occupational origins into managerial positions. Findings support theory: Across both occupational origins considered, lower white collar and blue collar, the two minority groups considered, African Americans and Latinos—relative to Whites—are handicapped along both issues. Specifically, both minority groups suffer from a lower incidence of mobility into managerial slots and attain them in a more narrow and restrictive manner then Whites. Furthermore, the racial gap between Whites and minorities support a qualification to this general finding: Racial differences in the incidence and determinants are greater from those originating at blue collar than lower white collar slots. Implications of the findings for identifying racial inequality in the dynam...
The Predisposition to Obesity and Diabetes in Offspring of Diabetic Mothers

The hypothesis of fuel-mediated teratogenesis (1) proposes that intrauterine exposure to an excess of fuels (for example, glucose) causes permanent fetal changes. In pregnancies complicated by diabetes, this would lead to malformations, greater birth weight, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in later life. Recently, obesity in the offspring has been included as an outcome in pregnancies complicated by diabetes. The hypothesis is now widely accepted, although the relatively few studies that have examined the question are poorly comparable and focus almost exclusively on growth and glucose regulation. This article reviews the evidence that intrauterine exposure to maternal diabetes conveys high risks for obesity and type 2 diabetes in the offspring, in addition to genetic predisposition, and regardless of maternal diabetes type. It also discusses potential mediators as well as possible public health consequences of fuel-mediated teratogenesis driven by maternal hyperglycemia in utero. Development in a diabetic intrauterine environment results in excess fetal growth. While maternal glucose freely crosses the placenta, maternal insulin does not (1). The developing fetal pancreas responds to this increased glucose load by producing additional insulin, which in turn, acts as a fetal growth hormone promoting growth and adiposity (1). Only two studies have prospectively examined the role of exposure to diabetes in utero on childhood growth, later obesity, and risk for type 2 diabetes in the offspring: the Pima Indian Study and the Diabetes in Pregnancy Study at Northwestern University in Chicago. ### Growth and risk for obesity Researchers at the Diabetes in Pregnancy Center at Northwestern University in Chicago have reported excessive growth in a multiethnic population of offspring of women with diabetes during pregnancy, including both gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and insulin-treated preexistent diabetes (2). Children were examined at birth, at age 6 months, and annually to age 8 years. The symmetry index (an obesity index …
Ultrafast vectorized multispin coding algorithm for the Monte Carlo simulation of the 3D Ising model

Abstract A new Monte Carlo algorithm for the 3D Ising model and its implementation on a CDC CYBER 205 is presented. This approach is applicable to lattices with sizes between 3·3·3 and 192·192·192 with periodic boundary conditions, and is adjustable to various kinetic models. It simulates a canonical ensemble at given temperature generating a new random number for each spin flip. For the Metropolis transition probability the speed is 27 ns per updates on a two-pipe CDC Cyber 205 with 2 million words physical memory, i.e. 1.35 times the cycle time per update or 38 million updates per second.
Application of Compressive Sensing to Refractivity Retrieval Using Networked Weather Radars

Radar-derived refractivity from stationary ground targets can be used as a proxy of near-surface moisture field and has the potential to improve the forecast of convection initiation. Refractivity retrieval was originally developed for a single radar and was recently extended for a network of radars by solving a constrained least squares (CLS) minimization. In practice, the number of high-quality ground returns can be often limited, and consequently, the retrieval problem becomes ill-conditioned. In this paper, an emerging technology of compressive sensing (CS) is proposed to estimate the refractivity field using a network of radars. It has been shown that CS can provide an optimal solution for the underdetermined inverse problem under certain conditions and has been applied to different fields such as magnetic resonance imaging, radar imaging, etc. In this paper, a CS framework is developed to solve the inversion. The feasibility of CS for refractivity retrieval using single and multiple radars is demonstrated using simulations, where the model refractivity fields were obtained from the Advanced Regional Prediction System. The root-mean-squared error was introduced to quantify the performance of the retrieval. The performance of CS was assessed statistically and compared to the CLS estimates for various amounts of measurement errors, numbers of radars, and model refractivity fields. Our preliminary results have shown that CS can consistently provide relatively robust and high-quality estimates of the refractivity field.
Foodborne illness — chemical fish and shellfish poisoning

Summary Table 2 summarizes the characteristics of the various fish and shellfish poisoning discussed in this review. In today's global trading market and due to the large demand for fish and shellfish, it is unlikely that illnesses such as PSP and ciguatera can be completely prevented. Prevention of ciguatera might consist of limiting the consumption of large carnivorous fish obtained from areas that are endemic for this disease. In cases of ciguatera, repeated exposure to contaminated fish can result in symptoms of increasing severity (6). In contrast to PSP and ciguatera, scombroid poisoning can be prevented by immediate and continued refrigeration of all fish. Fish that have been left out at room temperature or in warm areas should be suspect and handled with care since cooking will not destroy the metabolic by-products that cause illness. To protect consumers from disease, both state and federal agencies regulate all commercially-harvested bivalve shellfish in the United States. In the state of California, the Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning Prevention Program, implemented in 1927, mandates paralytic shellfish poisoning as a reportable condition. In 1962, a shellfish sampling program was developed to monitor toxin levels in commercially-harvested shellfish. Since toxin levels can increase rapidly and unpredictably, a mandatory quarantine exists along the coast of California each year from May to October in which sport harvesting of mussels for human consumption is prohibited. Commercial shellfish harvesters are exempt from this quarantine since they submit shellfish samples to certified laboratories which test and confirm that shellfish meats do not exceed regulatory limits for PSP toxin.
Macrophomate Synthase: QM/MM Simulations Address the Diels-Alder versus Michael-Aldol Reaction Mechanism

Macrophomate synthase (MPS) of the phytopathogenic fungus Macrophoma commelinae catalyzes the transformation of 2-pyrone derivatives to the corresponding benzoate analogues. The transformation proceeds through three separate chemical reactions, including decarboxylation of oxalacetate to produce pyruvate enolate, two C-C bond formations between 2-pyrone and pyruvate enolate that form a bicyclic intermediate, and final decarboxylation with concomitant dehydration. Although some evidence suggests that the second step of the reaction catalyzed by MPS is a Diels-Alder reaction, definite proof that the C-C bond formations occur via a concerted mechanism is still required. An alternative route for formation of the C-C bonds is a stepwise Michael-aldol reaction. In this work, mixed quantum and molecular mechanics (QM/MM) combined with Monte Carlo simulations and free-energy perturbation (FEP) calculations were performed to investigate the relative stabilities of the transition states (TS) for both reaction mechanisms. The key results are that the Diels-Alder TS model is 17.7 and 12.1 kcal/mol less stable than the Michael and aldol TSs in the stepwise route, respectively. Therefore, this work indicates that the Michael-aldol mechanism is the route used by MPS to catalyze the second step of the overall transformation, and that the enzyme is not a natural Diels-Alderase, as claimed by Ose and co-workers (Nature 2003, 422, 185-189; Acta Crystallogr. 2004, D60, 1187-1197). A modified link-atom treatment for the bonds at the QM/MM interface is also presented.
A closer look at consistent operator splitting and its extensions for topology optimization

Abstract In this work, we explore the use of operator splitting algorithms for solving regularized structural topology optimization problems. The context is a classical structural design problem (e.g., compliance minimization and compliant mechanism design), parametrized by means of density functions, whose ill-posedness is addressed by introducing a Tikhonov regularization term. The proposed forward–backward splitting algorithm treats the constituent terms of the cost functional separately, which allows for suitable approximations of the structural objective. We will show that one such approximation, inspired by the reciprocal expansions underlying the optimality criteria method, improves the convergence characteristics and leads to an update scheme resembling the heuristic sensitivity filtering method. We also discuss a two-metric variant of the splitting algorithm that removes the computational overhead associated with bound constraints on the density field without compromising convergence and quality of optimal solutions. We present several numerical results and investigate the influence of various algorithmic parameters.
Potential functions of retinoic acid receptor A in Sertoli cells and germ cells during spermatogenesis

Elucidation of the retinoid signaling circuitry in the testis is critical to understanding how male germ cells develop to spermatozoa. Retinoic acid receptor A protein (RARA) is an essential mediator of retinoid signaling in the testis, as shown by a sterility phenotype observed for retinoic acid receptor A gene (Rara) knockout male mice. The seminiferous tubules of Rara knockout mice showed varying degrees of germ-cell degeneration. A dramatic increase in apoptosis of early meiotic prophase spermatocytes was observed in these tubules compared to the wild-type tubules. Germ-cell loss was dependent on the stages of the spermatogenic cycle: germ-cell loss was negligible in stages I-V, but severe after stages VIII and IX of the spermatogenic cycle. Using spermatogonial transplantation, the individual function of RARA in Sertoli cells or germ cells was determined. The wild-type donor germ cells, transplanted into Rara knockout testes, colonized and proliferated in the RARA-deficient microenvironment. The donor-derived cells were mostly early meiotic prophase spermatocytes, with few more advanced germ cells detected. Conversely, when Rara-deficient germ cells were injected into the microenvironment that express RARA, establishment of donor-derived germ-cell colonies was rare, but remarkably, once colonized, Rara-deficient germ cells progressed normally through spermatogenesis. These results together suggest that RARA may function in Sertoli cells to promote the survival and development of early meiotic prophase spermatocytes, whereas RARA in germ cells functions to increase the proliferation and differentiation of spermatogonia, prior to meiotic prophase.
Reward Systems, Faculty Alienation, and Militancy: Academic Dilemmas in the Middle of the Academic Procession.

The study examines the effect of alienation resulting from discrepancies between departmental goals and reward policies on faculty attitudes toward collective bargaining. Analysis of structural data derived from official records of a large, public university and of attitudinal data consisting of faculty responses to a survey, shows that alienation from reward systems has a significant independent influence on faculty attitudes towards collective action. The observed trends in militancy are interpreted in terms of institutional context and framework of “unionization” movement.
White-Tailed Deer Vigilance: The Influence of Social and Environmental Factors

Vigilance behavior may directly affect fitness of prey animals, and understanding factors influencing vigilance may provide important insight into predator-prey interactions. We used 40,540 pictures taken withcamera traps in August 2011 and 2012to evaluate factors influencing individual vigilance behavior of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) while foraging at baited sites. We used binary logistic regression to determine if individual vigilance was affected by age, sex, and group size. Additionally, we evaluated whether the time of the day,moon phase,and presence of other non-predatorwildlife species impacted individual vigilance. Juveniles were 11% less vigilant at baited sites than adults. Females were 46% more vigilant when fawns were present. Males and females spent more time feeding as group size increased, but with each addition of 1 individual to a group, males increased feeding time by nearly double that of females. Individual vigilance fluctuated with time of day andwith moon phase but generally was least during diurnal and moonlit nocturnal hours, indicating deer have the ability to adjust vigilance behavior to changing predation risk associated with varyinglight intensity.White-tailed deer increased individual vigilance when other non-predator wildlife were present. Our data indicate that differential effects of environmental and social constraints on vigilance behavior between sexes may encourage sexual segregation in white-tailed deer.
Evidence-based medicine and myocardial protection — where is the evidence?

Objective:Myocardial protection with cardioplegia is an integral component of most cardiac surgical procedures, providing protection of the heart by limiting metabolic activity and increasing the m...