cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Disruptive counterillumination and its anti-predatory value in the plainfish midshipman Porichthys notatus

The plainfin midshipman Porichthys notatus Girard occurs in nearshore waters off the western coast of North America. We found that the ventrally directed photophores of juvenile laboratory-grown P. notatus function in counterillumination. Their bioluminescence matched downwelling light to obscure the silhouette as viewed from below. P. notatus did not obligatorily counterilluminate at all times in appropriate light. A hydrodynamic stimulus, in addition to appropriate downwelling light, was required to induce counterillumination. This is perhaps an adaptation to conserve its Vargula-type luciferin, which is obtained from its diet. The angular distribution of light produced by P. notatus approximated that typical of downwelling light in the ocean. There was a direct relationship between downwelling irradiance and the maximum intensity of P. notatus luminescence. Insufficient light was produced to replace the light blocked by the fish under lighting conditions typical of the natural environment. The luminescence was, however, effective in eliminating the silhouette of P. notatus as observed with an image-intensifying camera and by dark-adapted human observers. Consequently, the effectiveness of counterillumination probably originates in part from the disruptive pattern of the luminous photophores. P. notatus from the Puget Sound population, which lacks a luciferin source and is non-luminous, displayed counterillumination behavior when its luminescent system was activated by force-feeding the fish with dried Vargula hilgendorfi. Experiments using adult P. notatus as predators on a mixed population of non-luminous (Puget Sound) and luminous (Santa Barbara Channel) juvenile P. notatus revealed that under conditions of dim overhead illumination non-luminous P. notatus were preyed upon at twice the rate of luminous individuals. This is the first experimental evidence suggesting that counterillumination is effective as an anti-predatory strategy.
Multiscale Simulation of a Prescribed Fire Event in the New Jersey Pine Barrens Using ARPS-CANOPY

Smoke prediction products are one of the tools used by land management personnel for decision making regarding prescribed fires. This study documents the application to a prescribed fire of a smoke prediction system that employs ARPS-CANOPY, a modified version of the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) model containing a canopy submodel, as the meteorological driver. In this paper, the performance of ARPS-CANOPY in simulating meteorological fields in the vicinity of a low-intensity fire is assessed using flux-tower data collected prior to and during a low-intensity prescribed fire in the New Jersey Pine Barrens in March 2011. A three-dimensional high-resolution plant area density dataset is utilized to define the characteristics of the canopy, and the fire is represented in ARPS-CANOPY as a heat flux to the atmosphere. The standard ARPS model is compared with reanalysis and upper-air data to establish that the model can simulate the observed synoptic-mesoscale and planetary boundary layer features that are salient to this study. ARPS-CANOPY profiles of mean turbulent kinetic energy, wind speed/direction, and temperature exhibit patterns that appear in the flux-tower observations during both the preburn phase of the experiment and the period of time the flux tower experienced perturbed atmospheric conditions due to the impinging fire. Last, the character and source of turbulence in and around the fire line are examined. These results are encouraging for smoke prediction efforts since transport of smoke from low-intensity fires is highly sensitive to the near-surface meteorological conditions and, in particular, turbulent flows.
Regulation of adipose oestrogen output by mechanical stress

Aberrant production of oestrogens by adipose stromal cells is a driving factor in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Here the authors discover that oestrogen synthesis in adipose tissue is regulated by mechanical stress, and reveal how this effect is mediated.
Broad Spectrum Bioluminescence: Shine On!

Review of : Bioluminescence: Living lights, lights for living , 1st ed.; Therese Wilson and J. Woodland Hastings; (2013). Harvard Press, Cambridge, MA. 185 pages.
Using quantitative models to search for appropriate organizational designs

As the scale and scope of distributed and multi-agent systems grow, it becomes increasingly important to design and manage the participants' interactions. The potential for bottlenecks, intractably large sets of coordination partners, and shared bounded resources can make individual and high-level goals difficult to achieve. To address these problems, many large systems employ an additional layer of structuring, known as an organizational design, that assigns agents different roles, responsibilities and peers. These additional constraints can allow agents to operate more efficiently within the system by limiting the options they must consider. Different designs applied to the same problem will have different performance characteristics, therefore it is important to understand the behavior of competing candidate designs. In this article, we describe a new representation for capturing such designs, and in particular we show how quantitative information can form the basis of a flexible, predictive organizational model. The representation is capable of capturing a wide range of multi-agent characteristics in a single, succinct model. We demonstrate the language's capabilities and efficacy by comparing a range of metrics predicted by detailed models of a distributed sensor network and information retrieval system to empirical results. These same models also describe the space of possible organizations in those domains and several search techniques are described that can be used to explore this space, using those quantitative predictions and context-specific definitions of utility to evaluate alternatives. The results of such a search process can be used to select the organizational design most appropriate for a given situation.
Insulin Causes Fatty Acid Transport Protein Translocation and Enhanced Fatty Acid Uptake in Adipocytes

Fatty acid uptake into 3T3 L1 adipocytes is predominantly transporter mediated. Here we show that, during 3T3 L1 adipocyte differentiation, expression of fatty acid transport proteins (FATPs) 1 and 4 is induced. Using subcellular membrane fractionation and immunofluorescence microscopy, we demonstrate that, in adipocytes, insulin induces plasma membrane translocation of FATPs from an intracellular perinuclear compartment to the plasma membrane. This translocation was observed within minutes of insulin treatment and was paralleled by an increase in long chain fatty acid (LCFA) uptake. In contrast, treatment with TNF-alpha inhibited basal and insulin-induced LCFA uptake and reduced FATP1 and -4 levels. Thus, hormonal regulation of FATP activity may play an important role in energy homeostasis and metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.
The Cellular and Clinical Parameters of Anabolic Therapy for Osteoporosis

A new era in the management of osteoporosis began with the recent approval of parathyroid hormone (PTH) for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. This peptide holds promise as the first in a series of anabolic growth factors that promote bone formation, enhance mineralization,and stimulate periosteal growth, yet exert relatively limited effects on bone resorption. Daily intermittent PTH treatment for postmenopausal women results in a dramatic increase in bone mineral density (BMD) (i.e., 10-15% improvement in spine BMD) and a significant decline (i.e., a risk reduction of nearly 2/3) in the occurrence of fragility fractures. The mechanism of PTH's anabolic action on the skeleton is complex and involves multiple pathways linked to common signaling peptides that affect gene transcription in osteoblasts. One fascinating aspect of PTH, both at the clinical and molecular level, is the relationship between the frequency of PTH treatment and the bone response. Depending on the type of PTH exposure, there can be an anabolic or catabolic skeletal phenotype that can then be recapitulated by certain in vivo and in vitro model systems. Transcriptional events following ligand binding to the PTH/PTHrP1 receptor have been studied, with particular interest in target genes such as IGF-I that can regulate both bone formation and resorption. Novel in vivo strategies, including temporal and conditional mutagenesis, will almost certainly lead to newer therapeutic paradigms for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Examination of a backchaining/counterconditioning process during the extinction of conditioned fear.

Abstract Two experiments using rat subjects are reported which attempt to delineate the theoretical mechanisms involved in exposure/extinction procedures that are used to eliminate conditioned fear. In Experiment 1, a within-subjects design was employed to study the temporal course of the extinction process by examining the relationship among three separate measures of classically conditioned fear-suppression of an ongoing, operant behavior during the nonreinforced fear-eliciting CS presentation, the time to the first response during this CS presentation, and the time to recover responding following termination of the CS. The results indicated a temporal relationship among these measures, both within and across nonreinforced CS trials, which were considered to reflect a backchaining of a fear—antagonistic response during extinction, and provided an empirical demonstration of an extinction process consistent with Denny's ( Behaviour Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry , 7 , 315–321, 1976) elicitation/backchaining explanation of extinction. Experiment 2 attempted to manipulate the course of extinction and the temporal relationship among these three fear meaures through the paired presentations of the fear CS with a palatable substance (maltose). This procedure produced greater extinction apparently by facilitating the backchaining process. These results are discussed with implications for exposure-based therapies.
An Illustrated Primer in Differential Privacy

The vast amounts of data that are now available provide new opportunities to social science researchers, but also raise huge privacy concerns for data subjects. Differential privacy offers a way to balance the needs of both parties. But how?
Application of the finite element method to towed cable dynamics

This paper deals with towing an object through a fluid by means of a cable. For a slender, neutrally buoyant towbody, the planar configuration of the towed system is determined for steady motion and for time-dependent maneuvers of the towing vehicle. A formulation of the finite element method that applies to towed cable dynamics is presented including bending deformation and stretch of the elements, and nodal forces caused by acceleration, distributed weight, and hydrodynamic loading. Although based on established forms for fluid drag, the treatment and expressions for nodal hydrodynamic loading forces are new. The resultant system of equations for the unknown nodal displacements is solved by step-by-step integration in time using a scheme that eliminates troublesome longitudinal oscillations. Lumped and distributed systems are compared with respect to the treatment of mass and hydrodynamic loading and the effects of bending stiffness are illustrated.
+Your circles: sharing behavior on Google+

Users are sharing and consuming enormous amounts of information through online social network interaction every day. Yet, many users struggle to control what they share to their overlapping social spheres. Google+ introduces circles, a mechanism that enables users to group friends and use these groups to control their social network feeds and posts. We present the results of a qualitative interview study on the sharing perceptions and behavior of 27 Google+ users. These results indicate that many users have a clear understanding of circles, using them to target information to those most interested in it. Yet, despite these positive perceptions, there is only moderate use of circles to control information flow. We explore reasons and risks associated with these behaviors and provide insight on the impact and open questions of this privacy mechanism.
Use of a 1 mm collimator to test the accuracy of stereotactic radiotherapy

Abstract Purpose: To develop a method of measuring locations of the center of dose in stereotactic radiotherapy relative to the center of the target, and thereby obtain a test of the accuracy of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT). Methods and Materials: An insert was mounted in an SRT collimator on a 6 MV linear accelerator to provide a photon beam ∼1 mm in diameter at isocenter, and a method of measuring radiation center coordinates of arced SRT beams. To simulate a small intracranial target, two halves of a Barium paste column were embedded in two adjacent slabs of a humanoid phantom. A film was placed between the slabs to image the radiation relative to the target center. A surgical head ring and computerized tomography (CT) localizer were attached to the phantom and CT scans were obtained. The scans were entered in a three-dimensional computerized treatment-planning system and radiation isocenter coordinates determined by iteratively moving the 90% isodose surface center of arced beam dose distributions to coincide with the target center. The phantom was bolted to an SRT floorstand with isocenter coordinates obtained from the treatment plan, and then irradiated in two sets of experiments. The first set applied five 1 mm noncoplanar arced beams with and without offsets of the planned coordinates in the transverse plane. The second set applied one large transverse arc coplanar to the film with and without offsets in the craniocaudal direction. Irradiations with coordinate offsets tested the sensitivity of the method. Films were developed and digitized with a high resolution film scanner to measure the location of the radiation relative to the target center. Results and Conclusion: The radiation center was found from 0.0 to 0.3 mm of the target center, within requirements of our clinical quality assurance program. The measurement and evaluation of coincidence of radiation and target centers are, thus, proposed as elements of radiosurgery facility acceptance and annual quality assurance.
Some Effects Caused by Solid Particles in Flows

A study of the behavior of particulate flows near the solid boundaries is necessary to determine the effect of the presence of solid particles on the skin friction and heat transfer. In the present analysis, the particles are continuously distributed throughout the flowfield and each of the two phases has its own mean properties. The particles translational velocity is generally different in magnitude and direction from that of the gas. They also have a rotational velocity which is not equal to the gas rotational speed. The particles motion, however, is basically due to the gas motion. If the rate of change of the angular momentum of the suspension in the volume V is set equal to the total moment of the surface forces about an axis in the /c-direction passing through a point 0 within this volume we obtain
Economic Influences on Presidential Popularity

Gallup data indicating presidential popularity from 1950 to 1974 are analyzed in a distributed lag model which tests the importance of key economic influences. Results indicate that inflation and military expenditures are statistically significant and politically important influences on presidential popularity. The success of this model in revealing hitherto undetected economic influence calls into question the nonfindings of previous simple linear analyses and suggests the need for more sophisticated models which provide, through the use of time lags and cumulative impacts, a more complex pattern of economic influence on presidential popularity. Kristen R. Monroe is Assistant Professor, Department of Politics, New York University. The author wishes to thank Bernard Grofman and Maurice Levi for their comments, and Sylvia Willie for her computer assistance. Public Opinion Quarterly ? 1978 by The Trustees of Columbia University Published by Elsevier North-Holland, Inc. 0033-362X/78/0042-0360/$1.25 This content downloaded from 157.55.39.138 on Mon, 27 Jun 2016 05:45:36 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms KRISTEN R. MONROE 361 for a gradual decrease in the political importance of these events. Using this model, we found that both inflation and military expenditures are important influences on presidential popularity. In this article, we present (1) a description of the data and the model developed to detect the economic influences on presidential popularity and (2) the key results from our empirical analysis.
A new species of electric knifefish, genus Compsaraia (Gymnotiformes: Apteronotidae) from the Amazon River, with extreme sexual dimorphism in snout and jaw length

Abstract A new species of the neotropical electric fish genus Compsaraia is described from the western Amazon of Peru and Brazil. Compsaraia samueli is distinguishable from all other apteronotids by sexual dimorphism in which mature males exhibit extreme elongation and slenderness of the snout and jaws. Compsaraia samueli is readily distinguishable from its only congener, C. compsa, by more caudal‐fin rays (17–18 vs. 13–16), a shorter caudal peduncle (mean length 9% vs. 34% body length to end of anal fin), a less tapering body shape in lateral profile (mean ratio of body depth at origins of anal fin and dorsal organ 93% vs. 75%), and a smaller maximum adult body size (230 vs. 305 mm). The genus Compsaraia is readily separated from other apteronotids by a pale antorbital stripe and a pale L‐shaped patch over the supra‐temporal canal. The phylogenetic position of C. samueliis estimated by inclusion in a previously published data matrixof osteological and other morphological characters. Comparisons of the cr...
Direct adaptive dynamic compensation for minimum phase systems with unknown relative degree

We consider parameter-monotonic direct adaptive control for single-input-single-output minimum-phase linear time-invariant systems with knowledge of the sign of the high-frequency gain (first nonzero Markov parameter) and an upper bound on the magnitude of the high-frequency gain. The first part of the paper is devoted to fixed-gain analysis of single-parameter high-gain-stabilizing controllers. Two novel fixed-gain dynamic compensators are presented for stabilizing minimum-phase systems. One compensator stabilizes systems with arbitrary-but-known relative degree, while the other utilizes a Fibonacci series construction to stabilize systems with unknown-but-bounded relative degree. Next, we provide a general treatment of parameter-monotonic adaptive control, including a result that guarantees state convergence to zero. This result is then combined with the high-gain-stabilizing controllers to yield parameter-monotonic direct adaptive dynamic compensation for minimum-phase systems with either arbitrary-but-known or unknown-but-bounded relative degree
FOXO3 Regulates the CD8 T cell Response to a Chronic Viral Infection

Chronic infections with viruses such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and HIV constitute a major global public health problem. Studies of chronic viral infections in humans and mice show that persistent antigenic stimulation induces dysregulation of T cell responses; virus-specific T cells either undergo clonal deletion or lose their ability to display the full spectrum of effector functions, a condition termed functional exhaustion. The ability to generate and retain sufficient numbers of functionally competent T cells, therefore, becomes vitally important in controlling chronic viral infections. Our understanding of the mechanisms governing T cell homeostasis during chronic viral infections, however, is poor. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway controls cell fate decisions in many cell types by modulating the activity of downstream effectors, including the FOXO family of transcription factors. We have observed dynamic, in vivo alterations in the phosphorylation levels of three key proteins (Akt, FOXO1/FOXO3 [FOXO1/3], and mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR]) involved in this signaling cascade and have identified the transcription factor FOXO3 as a negative regulator of the magnitude and effector function of CD8 T cells during chronic lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection in mice. We report that ablation of FOXO3 in T cells reduced apoptosis, increased the abundance of polyfunctional virus-specific CD8 T cells, and improved viral control. Thus, FOXO3 is a promising candidate target for immunotherapies of chronic viral infection.
The Distribution of Gene Segments in T-Cell Receptor γ Gene Rearrangements Demonstrates the Need for Multiple Primer Sets

Limited data exist regarding the distribution of gene segments used in T-cell receptor γ gene rearrangements (TCRγGR) in T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. The reported efficacy of TCRγGR protocols ranges from 60% to greater than 90%. Laboratories reporting a lower detection rate tend to use a limited set of primers. The goal of our study was to provide TCRγGR data to demonstrate the molecular biological basis for needing multiple primer sets targeting all gene segments. Sixty cases with a confirmed histological diagnosis of a T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder and TCRγGR were identified in our lymphoma registry from 1995 to 2001. DNA was obtained from fresh/frozen tissue, cell lysates, or paraffin-embedded tissue. Variable (Vγ) region gene segments were identified using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, which was used to select the cases in the study. Capillary electrophoresis using fluorescent-labeled joining (Jγ) region primers was performed to identify Jγ segments. Sixty cases contained a total of 98 TCRγGR, as some cases have more than one rearrangement. The most frequent gene segment combination involved the Vγ1–8 and Jγ1/2 segments. If a single primer set directed at these two segments were used for clinical diagnosis, that pair of primers would only diagnose 67% of cases as positive for TCRγGR. Our gene segment distribution data emphasize the importance of using a comprehensive set of Vγ and Jγ primers for an optimal detection rate of TCRγGR. Protocols with limited numbers of primers should be reconsidered.
Using CASA IP1 to Diagnose Kinematic and Microphysical Interactions in a Convective Storm

Data from the Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA) Integrated Project I (IP1) network of polarimetric X-band radars are used to observe a convective storm. A fuzzy logic hydrometeor identification algorithm is employed to study microphysical processes. Dual-Doppler techniques are used to analyze the 3D wind field. The scanning strategy, sensitivity, and low-level scanning focus of the radars are investigated for influencing bulk hydrometeor identification and dual-Doppler wind retrievals. Comparisons are madewith thenearby S-bandpolarimetric Next GenerationWeatherRadar (NEXRAD) prototyperadar (KOUN), for consistency. Lightning data are used as an independent indicator of storm evolution for comparison with radar observations. A new methodology for retrieving the vertical wind utilizing upward and variational integration techniques is employed and shown to illustrate trends in mean wind, with particularly good results at low levels. IP1 observations of a case on 10 June2007 showthe development of the updraft, subsequent graupel echovolume evolution, and a descending downdraft preceded by significant graupel in the midlevels, with updraft and graupel volumes leading the onset of lightning. Many of these trends are corroborated by KOUN. The high temporal resolution of three minutes and near-ground sampling provided by IP1 is integral to resolving upanddowndrafts,aswell ashydrometeor evolution.IP1coverageoftheupperlevelsis diminishedcomparedto KOUN, impacting the quality of the dual-Doppler derived vertical winds and ice echo volumes, although the low-level coverage helps to mitigate some errors. However, IP1 coverage of the low- to midlevels is demonstrated to be comparable or better than coverage by KOUN for this storm location.
Restoring the Victim: Emotional Reactions, Justice Beliefs, and Support for Reparation and Punishment

Psychological responses to criminal wrongdoing have primarily focused on the offender, particularly on how (and why) offender punishment satisfies people’s need for justice. However, the restoration of the victim presents another way in which the “psychological itch” that injustice creates can be addressed. In the present article, I discuss two lay theories of how crime victims can be restored: a belief that the harm caused to crime victims should be directly repaired (a restorative justice approach) versus a belief that victim harm should be addressed via the punishment of the offender (a retributive justice approach). These two lay theories are discussed with regard to their emotional and ideological determinants, as well as situational and chronic factors that can affect whether people adopt a reparative or punitive “justice mindset” in dealing with victim concerns (and crime in general).
Putting Theory to the Test: Modeling a Multidimensional, Developmentally-Based Approach to Preschool Disruptive Behavior

Objective There is increasing emphasis on dimensional conceptualizations of psychopathology, but empirical evidence of their utility is just emerging. In particular, although a range of multidimensional models have been proposed, the relative fit of competing models has rarely been tested. Furthermore, developmental considerations have received scant attention. In this study, we tested a developmentally based, four-dimensional model of disruptive behavior theorized to represent the defining features of disruptive behavior at preschool age: Temper Loss, Noncompliance, Aggression, and Low Concern for Others. Method Model testing was conducted in two independent samples of preschoolers: Clinically Enriched Sample (n = 336) and Epidemiologic Sample (n = 532). The tau-equivalent confirmatory factor analyses were used to test the fit of the Developmental Model relative to three leading competing models ( DSM opositional defiant disorder (ODD)/conduct disorder (CD) Model, "Callous" Model, and an "Irritable/Headstrong/Hurtful" Model). Reliability of the four dimensions was also tested. Validity of the dimensions was tested by predicting multi-informant, multi-method ratings of disruptive behavior and impairment, and incremental utility relative to DSM symptoms. Results In both samples, the Developmental Model demonstrated a superior fit compared with the competing models within the full sample, and across key demographic subgroups. Validity was also demonstrated, including incremental utility relative to DSM-IV disruptive behavior symptoms. Conclusions Critical next steps for achieving scientific consensus about the optimal dimensional model of disruptive behavior and its clinical application are discussed.
Command Shaping for Systems with Time Delay

Delays in a feedback control system are a nonlinearity that can greatly degrade performance or lead to instability. Communication delays are prevalent in control over large distances and Internet-based operations. Process and/or sensor delays are common in biological and chemical systems. While feedback controllers have been developed to account for these delays, often the aggressiveness of the control effort must be tempered to avoid instability, overshoot or other unwanted effects. Command shaping's efficacy in reducing the unwanted dynamics is investigated in this paper. Using a second-order system (mass under PD control) as a test bed, command shapers are used to reduce the additional overshoot that delays in the system create.
Aberrations induced in wavefront-guided laser refractive surgery due to shifts between natural and dilated pupil center locations.

Purpose To determine the aberrations induced in wavefront-guided laser refractive surgery due to shifts in pupil center location from when aberrations are measured preoperatively (over a dilated pupil) to when they are corrected surgically (over a natural pupil). Setting Center for Visual Science and Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA. Methods Shifts in pupil center were measured between dilated phenylephrine hydrochloride (Neo-Synephrine [2.5%]) and nonpharmacological mesopic conditions in 65 myopic eyes treated with wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (Technolas 217z, Bausch & Lomb). Each patient's preoperative and 6-month postoperative wave aberrations were measured over the dilated pupil. Aberrations theoretically induced by decentration of a wavefront-guided ablation were calculated and compared with those measured 6 months postoperatively (6.0 mm pupil). Results The mean magnitude of pupil center shift was 0.29 mm ± 0.141 (SD) and usually occurred in the inferonasal direction as the pupil dilated. Depending on the magnitude of shift, the fraction of the higher-order postoperative root-mean-square wavefront error that could be due theoretically to pupil center decentrations was highly variable (mean 0.26 ± 0.20 mm). There was little correlation between the calculated and 6-month postoperative wavefronts, most likely because pupil center decentrations are only 1 of several potential sources of postoperative aberrations. Conclusions Measuring aberrations over a Neo-Synephrine-dilated pupil and treating them over an undilated pupil typically resulted in a shift of the wavefront-guided ablation in the superotemporal direction and an induction of higher-order aberrations. Methods referencing the aberration measurement and treatment with respect to a fixed feature on the eye will reduce the potential for inducing aberrations due to shifts in pupil center.
André Michaux's Influence on Stephen Elliott'sA Sketch of the Botany of South-Carolina and Georgia

Abstract Stephen Elliott (1771–1830) published “A Sketch of the Botany of South-Carolina and Georgia” in thirteen fascicles, which were later bound in two volumes. Citations of Flora Boreali-Americana by Andre Michaux appear very frequently, and Elliott's remarks under numerous plants attest to his frequent reference to Michaux's Flora. At least one specimen in Elliott's herbarium bears Michaux's name. Michaux's holding garden near Charleston, South Carolina was well known to Elliott who visited it at least once. A map shows the site of “Old” Sister's Ferry used by Michaux and Elliott.
Do Term Limits Help Women Get Elected

Objective. We examine the proposition put forward by term limit advocates and some scholars that the implementation of term limits will lead to increases in the numbers of women serving in state legislatures. Methods. Data are examined for all state house races in the six states that implemented term limits in 1998. Results. Although there was some variation across the states, the overall number of women serving in state house seats that were term-limited actually decreased following the election. Conclusions. More research is needed as more states implement term limits in future elections. However, our analysis suggests that term limits, unaccompanied by efforts to recruit women to run for term-limited seats, may be insufficient to increase the number of women state legislators.
Genetic Background and GxE Interactions Modulate the Penetrance of a Naturally Occurring Wing Mutation in Drosophila melanogaster

Many genes involved in producing complex traits are incompletely penetrant. One such example is vesiculated, an X-linked gene in Drosophila melanogaster that results in wing defects. To examine the genetic architecture of a complex trait (wings containing vesicles), we placed a naturally occurring variant into multiple autosomal backgrounds and quantified penetrance and expressivity at a range of developmental temperatures. We found significant epistasis, genotype-by-environment interactions, and maternal effects. Sex and temperature effects were modulated by genetic background. The severity of wing phenotypes also varied across different genetic backgrounds, and expressivity was positively correlated with penetrance. We also found evidence of naturally segregating suppressors of vesiculated. These suppressors were present on both the second and third chromosomes, and complex interactions were observed. Taken together, these findings indicate that multiple genetic and environmental factors modulate the phenotypic effects of a naturally occurring vesiculated allele.
Assessment of human exposure to di-isodecyl phthalate using oxidative metabolites as biomarkers

Di-isodecyl phthalate (DiDP), primarily used as a plasticiser, is a mixture of isomers with predominantly ten-carbon branched side chains. Assessment of DiDP exposure has not been conducted before because adequate biomarkers were lacking. In 129 adult volunteers with no known exposure to DiDP, the urinary concentrations of three oxidative metabolites of DiDP: monocarboxyisononyl phthalate (MCiNP), monooxoisodecyl phthalate (MOiDP) and monohydroxyisodecyl phthalate (MHiDP), previously identified in DiDP-dosed rats, were estimated by solid-phase extraction coupled to high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) using the respective oxidative metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate since authentic standards of the DiDP oxidative metabolites were unavailable. Interestingly, the hydrolytic monoester of DiDP, monoisodecyl phthalate (MiDP), was not detected in any of the samples, while MCiNP, MHiDP and MOiDP were detected in 98%, 96% and 85%, respectively, of the samples tested. MCiNP was excreted predominantly in its free form, whereas MOiDP was excreted as its glucuronide. MCiNP, MHiDP and MOiDP eluted as clusters of multiple peaks from the HPLC column probably due to the presence of numerous structurally similar isomers present in commercial DiDP formulations. The urinary concentrations of these oxidative metabolites correlated significantly (p < 0.0001) with each other, thus confirming a common precursor. The urinary concentrations of these DiDP oxidative metabolites also correlated significantly (p < 0.0001) with oxidative metabolites of di-isononyl phthalate (DiNP) suggesting the potential presence of DiNP isomers in commercial DiDP or simultaneous use of DiDP and DiNP in consumer products. The concentrations presented are semiquantitative estimates and should be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, the higher frequency of detection and higher urinary concentrations of MCiNP, MHiDP and MOiDP than of MiDP suggest that these oxidative metabolites are better biomarkers for DiDP exposure assessment than MiDP. These data also suggest that unless oxidative metabolites are measured, the prevalence of exposure to DiDP will probably be underestimated.
Cigarette Smoking Trajectories From Sixth to Twelfth Grade: Associated Substance Use and High School Dropout

Introduction The purpose of this longitudinal study was to identify distinct trajectories of cigarette smoking from sixth to twelfth grade and to characterize these trajectories by use of other drugs and high school dropout. Methods The diverse sample for this analysis consisted of a cohort of 611 students from Northeast Georgia who participated in the Healthy Teens Longitudinal Study (2003-2009). Students completed seven yearly assessments from sixth through twelfth grade. We used semi-parametric, group-based modeling to identify groups of students whose smoking behavior followed a similar progression over time. Results Current smoking (past 30 day) increased from 6.9% among sixth graders to 28.8% among twelfth graders. Four developmental trajectories of cigarette smoking were identified: Abstainers/Sporadic Users (71.5% of the sample), Late Starters (11.3%), Experimenters (9.0%), and Continuous Users (8.2%). The Abstainer/Sporadic User trajectory was composed of two distinct groups: those who never reported any tobacco use (True Abstainers) and those who reported sporadic, low-level use (Sporadic Users). The True Abstainers reported significantly less use of alcohol and other drugs and lower dropout rates than students in all other trajectories, and Sporadic Users had worse outcomes than True Abstainers. Experimenters and Continuous Users reported the highest drug use. Over one-third of Late Starters (35.8%) and almost half of Continuous Users (44.4%) dropped out of high school. Conclusions Cigarette smoking was associated with behavioral and academic problems. Results support early and continuous interventions to reduce use of tobacco and other drugs and prevent high school dropout.
The Calling of the Barebones Parliament Reconsidered

The Barebones Parliament occupies a unique place in the parliamentary history of England. It is probably the only parliament in English history whose members were not chosen by the electorate. Unlike other English parliaments, its members were selected by Cromwell and his Council of Officers and selected, in the main, from the Congregational communities in the nation. According to the principle professed at the time, they were chosen not because of their estates, their family connexions or their political patrons, but rather because of their reputation as ‘men of integrity, fearing God and hating covetousness’.Although the Barebones Parliament turned out to be a failure, with little or almost nothing accomplished after a short but tempestuous session, it was none the less important as a political experiment in Puritan utopianism.
IMPACT OF IRRIGATION GROUNDWATER PRICE AND QUOTA POLICIES IN CHANGING CROPPING PATTERNS IN THE PROVINCE KERMAN IN IRAN

Objective: Water scarcity is a growing global problem and increasing population pressures, living standards and the growing demand for environmental quality have evoked all the governments to represent better solutions about water resources management. In addition, there are growing political ties for reducing water use in agriculture that follow enough environmental benefits and increase the welfare of other water consumers. Methods: In addition, there are growing political ties for reducing water use in agriculture that follow enough environmental benefits and increase the welfare of other water consumers. This further increases the economic analysis to check the behavior of farmers using mathematical programming techniques and has been followed the application of Positive Mathematical Programming (PMP) especially. Results: Applied policies include increased 5, 10, 20 and 30 percent in water irrigation prices and reduced 10, 15, 25 and 30 percent in the amount of available irrigation water policies. Farmer's response to these policies showed that increased costs and reduced available irrigation water are effective in accepting deficit irrigation.
PNIPAAm-based biohybrid injectable hydrogel for cardiac tissue engineering.

Abstract Injectable biomaterials offer a non-invasive approach to deliver cells into the myocardial infarct region to maintain a high level of cell retention and viability and initiate the regeneration process. However, previously developed injectable matrices often suffer from low bioactivity or poor mechanical properties. To address this need, we introduced a biohybrid temperature-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) PNIPAAm–Gelatin-based injectable hydrogel with excellent bioactivity as well as mechanical robustness for cardiac tissue engineering. A unique feature of our work was that we performed extensive in vitro biological analyses to assess the functionalities of cardiomyocytes (CMs) alone and in co-culture with cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) (2:1 ratio) within the hydrogel matrix. The synthesized hydrogel exhibited viscoelastic behavior (storage modulus: 1260 Pa) and necessary water content (75%) to properly accommodate the cardiac cells. The encapsulated cells demonstrated a high level of cell survival (90% for co-culture condition, day 7) and spreading throughout the hydrogel matrix in both culture conditions. A dense network of stained F-actin fibers (∼6 × 10 4 μm 2 area coverage, co-culture condition) illustrated the formation of an intact and three dimensional (3D) cell-embedded matrix. Furthermore, immunostaining and gene expression analyses revealed mature phenotypic characteristics of cardiac cells. Notably, the co-culture group exhibited superior structural organization and cell–cell coupling, as well as beating behavior (average ∼45 beats per min, co-culture condition, day 7). The outcome of this study is envisioned to open a new avenue for extensive in vitro characterization of injectable matrices embedded with 3D mono- and co-culture of cardiac cells prior to in vivo experiments. Statement of Significance In this work, we synthesized a new class of biohybrid temperature-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) PNIPAAm–Gelatin-based injectable hydrogel with suitable bioactivity and mechanical properties for cardiac tissue engineering. A significant aspect of our work was that we performed extensive in vitro biological analyses to assess the functionality of cardiomyocytes alone and in co-culture with cardiac fibroblasts encapsulated within the 3D hydrogel matrix.
Criminalization of Corporate Law - The Impact on Director and Officer Behavior

If corporate officers and directors exercised better judgment in choosing their lawyers, we would see fewer convictions and, ultimately, fewer allegations and less criminalization of corporate law. However, corporate defendants are choosing lousy lawyers to defend them, resulting in more convictions and harsher penalties than there should be. The big-shot corporate defendants seem mostly to be going for big firm litigators . . . In my opinion, these guys do not litigate to win cases - they litigate to impress clients.If ever I had to choose a lawyer in one of these cases, I would choose a person who has some criminal law background and some securities and corporate governance background. In fact, I might choose . . . Frank Razzano, of Washington, D.C. . . . Frank is tough, but he knows when to give ground and when to push it - he just doesn't go and butt heads with federal prosecutors and with the federal government.
From the Beatles to Macklemore: Economics in Music in the Pop Culture Era

Economists have explored the relationship between economics and music since Tinari and Khandke (2000) made use of popular songs, dating back to the 1930s, to help teach economics. This paper takes the work of Tinari and Khandke and combines it with the more recent efforts of Mateer and Rice (2007) and Hall, Lawson and Mateer (2008) to create a database of the best economic songs for each year from 1964 through 2015. The database provides a historical timeline that helps instructors connect economic events from the past with the music of that time period. For each song selected, we provide the core economic concept(s) that it conveys and a sample of the relevant lyrics.
The Migratory Habit of the Spotted Cucumber Beetle

A brief report is made on the observations and experiments conducted in Louisiana and northward through the Mississippi Valley relating to the seasonal habits of the spotted cucumber beetle, Diabrotica duodecimpunctata Fabr. According to the information obtained, this species regularly migrates northward during the spring and early summer and the offspring migrate back to the South during the fall, with none surviving the winter north of central Missouri, and no true hibernation occurring in the South. The number of generations matured during this annual advance and retreat is not known.
Perceived Risk in Store Selection

Typically, perceived-risk studies [3, 7, 12] have focused on products or brands, although risk has been related to telephone shopping [8] and mail-order buying [15]. These studies suggested that risk attaches not only to what is acquired but also to how or where it is acquired. This study focuses on acquisition by attempting to relate perceived risk to retail store selection. It is consistent with Bucklin's [6] product/patronage typology in that it suggests-for certain types of acquisitions-that consumers' concern for product choice in no way lessens the importance of store choice. In fact, in our study store choice seemed to dominate product or brand choice.
Silica–Dendrimer Core–Shell Microspheres with Encapsulated Ultrasmall Palladium Nanoparticles: Efficient and Easily Recyclable Heterogeneous Nanocatalysts

We report the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic properties of novel monodisperse SiO2@Pd-PAMAM core–shell microspheres containing SiO2 microsphere cores and PAMAM dendrimer-encapsulated Pd nanoparticle (Pd-PAMAM) shells. First, SiO2 microspheres, which were prepared by the Stober method, were functionalized with vinyl groups by grafting their surfaces with vinyltriethoxysilane (VTS). The vinyl groups were then converted into epoxides by using m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid. Upon treatment with amine-terminated G4 poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers, the SiO2-supported epoxides underwent ring-opening and gave SiO2@PAMAM core–shell microspheres. Pd nanoparticles within the cores of the SiO2-supported PAMAM dendrimers were synthesized by letting Pd(II) ions complex with the amine groups in the cores of the dendrimers and then reducing them into Pd(0) with NaBH4. This produced the SiO2@Pd-PAMAM core–shell microspheres. The presence of the different functional groups on the materials was monitored by foll...
Mechanical Properties and Wear Resistance of High Moment thin Film Head Materials

Mechanical and tribological properties of soft magnetic thin films with high permeability and low coercivity are very important for the application of these films in high-density recording heads. This paper reports our experimental observations on these important properties of FeTaN thin film head materials. Hardness(H) and Young’s modulus(E) for FeTaN sputtered films were determined by nanoindentation. Wear resistance of these films against commercial magnetic tapes was measured with a sphere-on-flat wear tester. The experimental results indicate that the FeTa films can be hardened when nitrogen is introduced. It was found in this study that the thermal stability of the mechanical properties such as hardness of thin films containing nitrogen is better than that of the film without nitrogen. However, our experiments also revealed that the wear resistance of FeTaN films decreases when the concentration of nitrogen increases and the hardness of the worn surface at a wear scar is lower than that of the unworn surface.
Mall Models How Abercrombie & Fitch Sexualizes its Retail Workers

Corporate branding strategies entail showcasing a store’s “look” using retail workers’ bodies. In this research note, I describe how clothing chain Abercrombie & Fitch embeds its brand of sexuality onto visible retail workers—employees the company long referred to as “models.” Drawing on interview and observational research, I examine their labor practices of cultivating workers’ appearances by imposing their employee “look policy,” recruiting workers for “the look,” stratifying employees based on appearance, employing shirtless greeters, and creating a shopping environment that encourages customers to sexually harass workers. The discussion highlights the discriminatory nature of these labor practices and resulting negative experiences for workers.
Developing Robots that Recognize When They Are Being Trusted

In previous work we presented a computational framework that allows a robot or agent to reason about whether it should trust an interactive partner or whether the interactive partner trusts the robot (Wagner & Arkin, 2011). This article examines the use of this framework in a well-known situation for examining trust--the Investor-Trustee game (King-Casas, Tomlin, Anen, Camerer, Quartz, & Montague, 2005). Our experiment pits the robot against a person in this game and explores the impact of recognizing and responding to trust signals. Our results demonstrate that the recognition that a person has intentionally placed themselves at risk allows the robot to reciprocate and, by doing so, improve both individuals play in the game. This work has implications for home healthcare, search and rescue, and military applications.