cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulation and experimental validation of bacterial detachment using a spherical produce model in an industrial-scale flume washer

Abstract Thorough and proper washing of fresh produce is critical for ensuring their microbiological safety. Using spherical produce models (40 mm diameter), the effect of the separation distance (40 mm–200 mm) between adjacent models placed in the flow in an industrial flume washer, on bacterial detachment was investigated. The fluid flow in the flume washer was numerically simulated, and the shear stress on the surface of the produce models was calculated. The numerical simulation indicated that varying the center-to-center distance between produce models from 40 mm to 200 mm increased the average shear stress on the produce models from 264 mPas to 469 mPas. The corresponding experimental data of the number of bacteria that survived on the surface of the produce models after 60 s of washing ranged from 8.6 × 103 CFU/cm2 to 2.7 × 102 CFU/cm2. An empirical model, which incorporated the effect of calculated shear stress on the kinetics of bacteria removal, was developed to predict the number of bacteria that survived on the surface of the produce after washing. The findings in this study are useful for fresh-cut produce processors in optimizing product loading rate without compromising food quality and safety during flume washing.
Paternal biopsychosocial resilience in triadic interactions among African American/Black families exposed to trauma and socioeconomic adversity.

Fathers have a distinct and unique effect on child development, but little is known about fathering beyond White or majority White families. The current study includes African American/Black biological fathers (N = 88) and their two-year-old children. Fathers reported low incomes and high rates of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Parenting behaviors were observed in high-stress and low-stress triadic contexts. In the high-stress condition, we assessed paternal responses to children's bids after the family was reunited following a separation paradigm. In the low-stress condition, we assessed parenting behaviors during a teaching task. Fathers' social baseline respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was obtained as an index of parasympathetic arousal. RSA moderated the association between PTSD and fathers' responsiveness (F = 6.90, p = .00, R2 = .30), with no association between PTSD and responsiveness demonstrated among fathers with the highest levels of RSA relative to the sample (effect = .04, p = .00; CI [0.02, 0.06]). RSA did not moderate the association between paternal depression and parenting behaviors (p > .05). Furthermore, responsiveness was only significantly associated with low-stress paternal teaching behaviors for fathers with lower RSA (F = 4.34, p = .01, R2 = .21; effect = -.19, p = .00; CI [0.06, 0.32]). Findings demonstrate significant relationships among RSA, PTSD, and parenting for African American/Black men in contexts of economic adversity.
Cation Size Effects on the Electronic and Structural Properties of Solution-Processed In–X–O Thin Films

The nature of charge transport and local structure are investigated in amorphous indium oxide-based thin fi lms fabricated by spin-coating. The In–X–O series where X = Sc, Y, or La is investigated to understand the effects of varying both the X cation ionic radius (0.89–1.17 A) and the fi lm processing temperature (250–300 °C). Larger cations in particular are found to be very effective amorphosizers and enable the study of high mobility (up to 9.7 cm 2 V −1 s −1 ) amorphous oxide semiconductors without complex processing. Electron mobilities as a function of temperature and gate voltage are measured in thin-fi lm transistors, while X-ray absorption spectroscopy and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations are used to probe local atomic structure. It is found that trap-limited conduction and percolation-type conduction mechanisms convincingly model transport for low- and high-temperature processed fi lms, respectively. Increased cation size leads to increased broadening of the tail states (10–23 meV) and increased percolation barrier heights (24–55 meV) in the two cases. For the fi rst time in the amorphous In–X–O system, such effects can be explained by local structural changes in the fi lms, including decreased In–O and In–M (M = In, X) coordination numbers, increased bond length disorder, and changes in the MO x polyhedra interconnectivity.
Logistic regression for metadata: Cheshire takes on adhoc-TEL

In this paper we will briefly describe the approaches taken by the Berkeley Cheshire Group for the Adhoc-TEL 2008 tasks (Mono and Bilingual retrieval). Since the Adhoc-TEL task is new for this year, we took the approach of using methods that have performed fairly well in other tasks. In particular, the approach this year used probabilistic text retrieval based on logistic regression and incorporating blind relevance feedback for all of the runs. All translation for bilingual tasks was performed using the LEC Power Translator PC-based MT system. This approach seems to be a fit good for the limited TEL records, since the overall results show Cheshire runs in the top five submitted runs for all languages and tasks except for Monolingual German.
The Tgif2 gene contains a retained intron within the coding sequence

TGIF and TGIF2 are homeodomain proteins, which act as TGFβ specific Smad transcriptional corepressors. TGIF recruits general repressors including mSin3 and CtBP. The related TGIF2 protein functions in a similar manner, but does not bind CtBP. In addition to repressing TGFβ activated gene expression, TGIF and TGIF2 repress gene expression by binding directly to DNA. TGIF and TGIF2 share two major blocks of similarity, encompassing the homeodomain, and a conserved carboxyl terminal repression domain. Here we characterize two splice variants of the Tgif2 gene from mouse and demonstrate that the Tgif2 gene contains a retained intron. By PCR from mouse cDNA, we identified two alternate splice forms of the Tgif2 gene. One splice variant encodes the full length 237 amino acid Tgif2, whereas the shorter form results in the removal of 39 codons from the centre of the coding region. The generation of this alternate splice form occurs with the mouse RNA, but not the human, and both splice forms are present in all mouse tissues analyzed. Human and mouse Tgif2 coding sequences contain a retained intron, which in mouse Tgif2 is removed by splicing from around 25–50% of RNAs, as assessed by RT-PCR. This splicing event is dependent on sequences within the mouse Tgif2 coding sequence. Both splice forms of mouse Tgif2 encode proteins which are active transcriptional repressors, and can repress both TGFβ dependent and independent transcription. In addition, we show that human and mouse Tgif2 interact with the transcriptional corepressor mSin3. These data demonstrate that the Tgif2 gene contains a retained intron, within the second coding exon. This retained intron is not removed from the human mRNA at a detectable level, but is spliced out in a significant proportion of mouse RNAs. This alternate splicing is dependent entirely on sequences within the mouse Tgif2 coding sequence, suggesting the presence of an exonic splicing enhancer. Both splice forms of mouse Tgif2 produce proteins which are functional transcriptional repressors.
Asymptotic completeness in classical three-body scattering

The present work is motivated by the paper of DEIFT and SIMON [1] in which the problem of proving asymptotic completeness in N-body quantum scattering is reduced to the proof of existence of certain strong limits closely related to the adjoints of the wave operators and certain spectral information about the M-body subsystems with 2 ~< M ~< N-1. This "geometric" approach is time-dependent in character as contrasted with the time-independent character of the more customary approach involving resolvents. DEIFT and SIMON describe the difficulties involved in the application of the latter approach and we refer to their paper for these details as well as for references to recent work.
Flow cytometric detection of perforin upregulation in human CD8 T cells

Perforin and granzymes work synergistically to induce apoptosis in target cells recognized by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. While perforin is readily detectable by flow cytometry in resting CD8 T cells, upregulation of perforin in activated cells is thought to require proliferation. However, perforin undergoes numerous conformational changes during its maturation, which may affect the ability of conventional antibodies to recognize newly synthesized perforin. Polychromatic flow cytometry was used to detect perforin and cytokine production following stimulation of ex vivo human CD8 T cells. Two different anti-perforin antibodies, clones B-D48 and deltaG9, were used to discriminate various forms of perforin after cellular activation. We provide evidence for the rapid upregulation of perforin protein, which may contribute to the ability of CD8 T cells to kill multiple targets over time. The deltaG9 clone recognizes the granule-associated conformation of perforin, while the B-D48 clone is able to detect perforin in multiple forms. Finally, we show there is variability in the ability of CD8 T cells to upregulate perforin. Human CD8 T cells are capable of new perforin production immediately following activation. This work defines a novel flow cytometric procedure that can be used to more completely assess the cytotoxic capacity of human CD8 T cells.
Conditioned Flavor Aversions: Assessment of Drug‐Induced Suppression of Food Intake

Administration of a drug following ingestion of a novel food or solution often suppresses subsequent intake of the new food or solution. This suppression is associative, in that consumption is not suppressed when there is no temporal relationship between consumption and drug administration. The robust nature of aversion learning has made this procedure a sensitive and widely used behavioral index of drug side effects. The procedures described in this unit are suitable for work with rodents, and may require modifications, e.g., in presentation of the ingesta and drug for other species. Familiar and novel foods may be used instead of solutions, with similar results.
Social Dominance Orientation and John Henryism at the Intersection of Race and Class

Three studies were conducted to explore the relationship between social dominance orientation (SDO) and John Henryism (JH). Each study was framed using an intersectionality perspective which predicted that specific combinations of social identities would impact endorsement of SDO and JH in unique ways. We hypothesized that upper-class non-Whites would be higher in SDO and lower in JH than any other class/race identity combination. As predicted, a Class × Race interaction emerged for both SDO and JH in Study 1 (N = 387), with upper-class non-Whites displaying the highest levels of SDO and the lowest levels of JH. Study 2 (N = 340) replicated these findings and also explored the impact of context-level class on SDO and JH. Using a qualitative method, in Study 3 (N = 23) we found that upper-class non-Whites described their social class positions in ways highly consistent with SDO, whereas middle/working-class non-Whites described their experiences in ways consistent with JH.
A 7.4mW 200MS/s wideband spectrum sensing digital baseband processor for cognitive radios

A digital baseband cognitive radio spectrum sensing with channel-specific threshold and sensing time is integrated in 1.64mm2 in 65nm CMOS. The processor achieves detection probability ≥ 0.9 and false-alarm probability ≤ 0.1 for −5dB SNR within a 50ms sensing time. The chip dissipates 7.4mW for a 200MHz sensing bandwidth. A 22x reduction in power per sensing bandwidth is achieved compared to prior work.
Optimal skewed tiling for cache locality enhancement

Iterative stencil loops are used in scientific programs to implement relaxation methods for numerical simulation and signal processing. Such loops iteratively modify the same array elements over different time steps. Hence, exploitation of temporal data locality can lead to significantly improved cache performance. This paper shows that, to optimally tile iterative stencil loops, the imperfectly nested inner loops must be realigned such that they can be minimally skewed across different time steps. A memory-reference cost analysis proves that the number of cache misses is minimized when the skewing is minimum. A graph-theoretical algorithm, which takes polynomial time, is presented to determine the minimum skew factors for a given nesting of iterative stencil loops.
ASP: an automated seismic processor for microearthquake networks

abstract ASP, a low-power, in-field Automated Seismic Processor of microearthquake network data has been designed, fabricated, and deployed for initial operation in four different field areas to monitor seismicity associated with two geothermal areas (The Geysers, California, and Cerro Prieto, Mexico), a nuclear explosion with its related collapse and aftershock sequence, and late (>1 year) activity in a major aftershock series (Livermore, California). A second ASP system, with a high-speed front-end, is used in acoustic emission (1 to 20 kHz) analysis for fracture monitoring. Each of the 15 channels of ASP (configured for up to 128 channels) automatically detects, measures times and amplitudes, and computes and fits FFT9s for both the P and S waves on data sampled at 100 samples/sec. These data from each channel are then processed with a central microprocessor for hypocenter location, running b values, source parameters, event count, and P -wave polarities. The system is capable of processing a 15-station detection in approximately 40 sec, excluding printout. The initial trials have demonstrated that in-field real-time analysis of data maximizes the efficiency of microearthquake surveys allowing flexibility in experimental procedures, with a minimum of the traditional labor-intensive postprocessing. Current efforts are directed toward improving efficiency of computation and data output and in expanding software capabilities.
Identification of MARPP(14–20), morphine- and cyclic AMP-regulated phosphoproteins of 14–20 kDa, as myelin basic proteins: evidence for their acute and chronic regulation by morphine in rat brain

Abstract MARPP(14–20), morphine- and cyclic AMP-regulated phosphoproteins of 14, 17–18, and 20 kDa, were identified originally by one-dimensional electrophoresis as a group of proteins whose state of phosphorylation was decreased by acute morphine and increased by chronic morphine in the rat locus coeruleus. We now show that MARPP(14–20) represent myelin basic proteins based on biochemical and immunochemical criteria. First, MARPP(14–20) were found to have isoelectric points of about 11 based on their migration on non-equilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis. Second, MARPP(14–20) were greatly enriched in myelin fractions of brain, and were not detectable, or present at very low levels, in other subcellular fractions of brain. Third, analysis of phosphorylated MARPP(14–20) by one- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis demonstrated precise comigration with immunolabeled myelin basic proteins. In contrast, MARPP(14–20) were distinguished from histones, another group of low molecular weight, highly basic phosphoproteins, in these subcellular fractionation and immunochemical studies. Finally, we confirmed using two-dimensional electrophoresis, that changes observed previously by one-dimensional electrophoresis in the phosphorylation of MARPP(14–20) in response to acute and chronic morphine, and to acute forskolin, occur in myelin basic proteins. It was also found that changes in the state of phosphorylation of myelin basic proteins in response to chronic morphine occur without a change in the total amount of the proteins as determined by immunoblot analysis. The results demonstrate that the phosphorylatoin of myelin basic proteins is regulated by morphine in the nervous system, and raise the possibility that regulation of these proteins contributes to mechanisms underlying some of the acute and chronic actions of opiates in brain.
Mounting of large stripper foils for use in the terminal of an electrostatic accelerator

Abstract A method of mounting stripper foils is proposed using a high transmission tungsten grid. This enables the foil to be subdivided into a large number of independent foils, failure of any one of which does not affect the rest. It is thus possible to use a large foil moved across the beam to obtain a very long life. Test results and a prototype mechanism to exploit this are described.
Wave-number selection by target patterns and sidewalls in Rayleigh-Bénard convection.

We present experimental results for patterns of Rayleigh-Benard convection in a cylindrical container with static sidewall forcing. The fluid used was methanol, with a Prandlt number sigma=7.17 , and the aspect ratio was Gamma identical withR/d approximately 19 ( R is the radius and d the thickness of the fluid layer). In the presence of a small heat input along the sidewall, a sudden jump of the temperature difference DeltaT from below to slightly above a critical value Delta T(c) produced a stable pattern of concentric rolls (a target pattern) with the central roll (the umbilicus) at the center of the cell. A quasistatic increase of epsilon identical withDeltaT/Delta T(c) -1 beyond epsilon(1,c) approximately 0.8 caused the umbilicus of the pattern to move off center. As observed by others, a further quasistatic increase of epsilon up to epsilon=15.6 caused a sequence of transitions at epsilon(i,b) ,i=1,...,8 , each associated with the loss of one convection roll at the umbilicus. Each loss of a roll was preceded by the displacement of the umbilicus away from the center of the cell. After each transition the umbilicus moved back toward but never quite reached the center. With decreasing epsilon new rolls formed at the umbilicus when epsilon was reduced below epsilon(i,a) < epsilon(i,b) . When decreasing epsilon , large umbilicus displacements did not occur. In addition to quantitative measurements of the umbilicus displacement, we determined and analyzed the entire wave-director field of each image. The wave numbers varied in the axial direction, with minima at the umbilicus and at the cell wall and a maximum at a radial position close to 2Gamma/3 . The wave numbers at the maximum showed hysteretic jumps at epsilon(i,b) and epsilon(i,a) , but on average agreed well with the theoretical predictions for the wave numbers selected in the far field of an infinitely extended target pattern. To our knowledge there is as yet no prediction for the wave number selected by the umbilicus itself, or by the cell wall of the finite experimental system.
A comparison of 5-bromodeoxyuridine and thymidine incorporation into fertilized sea urchin eggs

Abstract 3 H-Thymidine ( 3 H-TdR) and 3 H-5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine ( 3 H-BUdR) are first incorporated into newly fertilized Strongylocentrotus purpuratus eggs 30 min after fertilization, which is about the time of pronuclear fusion. An initial incorporation of 3 H-BUdR immediately following fertilization has been previously reported. This was found to be due to a radioactive impurity present in samples of 3 H-BUdR stored in aqueous solutions. 3 H-TdR stored in water, or 3 HBUdR stored in 50% ethanol, did not contain this impurity.
Purdy Awarded 2006 Maurice Ewing Medal

G. Michael Purdy was awarded the Maurice Ewing Medal at the AGU Fall Meeting honors ceremony, which was held on 13 December 2006 in San Francisco, Calif. The medal recognizes significant original contributions to the scientific understanding of the processes in the ocean; for the advancement of oceanographic engineering technology and instrumentation; or outstanding service to marine science. It is an honor for me to deliver the citation for G. Michael Purdy, the 2006 recipient of AGU's Maurice Ewing Medal. Mike Purdy has made significant and original contributions to our understanding of ocean crustal structure, been an innovative developer of marine seismic instrumentation, and served for over two decades as an important leader of the oceanographic community.
Unusual structural effects on the chemical degradation of steroid sidechains

Abstract 17-Chlorosteroids from template-directed halogenation can be converted to 17(20) olefins with DBU or DBN. The dependence of this reaction on base-structure and reaction conditions suggests geometric control by liquid packing effects related to those operating in liquid crystals.
A preliminary investigation of the role of self-control in behavioral weight loss treatment.

Summary Self-control is associated with positive health outcomes; however, there is limited information on self-control and weight loss. Thus, the purpose of this preliminary research was to examine how objectively measured self-control operates within the context of a behavioral weight loss program (BWL). Results showed that greater self-control and increases in self-control during BWL treatment were associated with greater weight loss ( r 's≥0.26; p 's r 's≥0.26; p r 's≤-0.37; p 's r 's≥0.46; p 's
Effects of Ni(II) upon plasma glucagon and glucose in rats.

Abstract Plasma glucagon and glucose concentrations were measured in fasting Fischer rats after administration of Ni(II) as NiCl2 in ip dosage of 34 or 68 μmol/kg. Injection of Ni(II) produced prompt increases in plasma glucagon and glucose concentrations. Thus, at 0.5 hr after Ni(II) (68 μmol/kg), plasma glucagon concentrations averaged 0.75 ± 0.24 ng/ml (vs 0.20 ± 0.05 in control rats, p
Looking back and looking in: Rethinking adaptation strategies of Ghanaian immigrant women in Canada

Based on research that the author conducted in 1998 this paper re-examines theories of immigrant adaptation by relating Philomena Essed's three-point framework of immigrant adaptation to the settlement of Ghanaian immigrant women in Canada. Essed identifies three phases of the adaptation process that she categorizes as “when are we going back”, “are we going back”, and “here to stay.” This paper examines what it meant for Ghanaian women to “look back” and how “looking back” dictated their adaptation strategies. The paper moves beyond notions of adaptation that stress measurable and quantifiable outcomes to one that stresses the agency of immigrant women. The author argues that Ghanaian immigrant women's seemingly low status in the economy was not a reflection of poor adaptation but rather a measure to help them connect with people in the homeland.
Di-O-alkylglycerol, mono-O-alkylglycerol and ceramide inositol phosphates of Leishmania Mexicana Mexicana promastigotes

Three acidic unsaponifiable lipid fractions were isolated by chromatographic methods from sandfly vector stages (promastigotes) of a protozoan parasite of man, Leishmania mexicana mexicana , cultured in vitro . Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry, fast atom bombardment collision induced tandem mass spectrometry and metabolic labeling were used to characterize these lipids as di-O-alkylphosphatidyl-inositols, lyso-1-O-alkylphosphatidylinositols and inositol phosphosphingolipids. Molecular species of the dialkyl forms, new to natural product biochemistry, had a 20:0 substituent and either 17:1 or 18:1. The monoalkyl forms had either 17:0 or 18:0. The predominant ceramide had the 16:1 base and the lesser component the 16:0 base. In both, the N-acyl group was 18:0.
Microphytobenthos: The ecological role of the “secret garden” of unvegetated, shallow-water marine habitats. I. Distribution, abundance and primary production

The microphytobenthos consists of unicellular eukaryotic algae and cyanobacteria that grow within the upper several millimeters of illuminated sediments, typically appearing only as a subtle brownish or greenish shading. The surficial layer of the sediment is a zone of intense microbial and geochemical activity and of considerable physical reworking. In many shallow ecosystems, the biomass of benthic microalgae often exceeds that of the phytoplankton in the overlying waters. Direct comparison of the abundance of benthic and suspended microalgae is complicated by the means used to measure biomass and by the vertical and horizontal distribution of the microphytobenthos in the sediment. Where biomass has been estimated as chlorophyll a, there may be negligible to large (40%) error due to interference by degradation products, except where chlorophyll is measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. The vertical distribution of microphytobenthos, aside from mat-forming species, is determined by the opposing effects of their vertical migration, which tends to concentrate them near the surface, and physical mixing by overlying currents, which tends to cause an even vertical distribution through the mixed layer of sediment. Uncertainties in vertical distribution are compounded by frequently patchy horizontal distribution. Under-sampling on small (<1 m) scales can lead to errors in the estimate that are comparable to the ranges of seasonal and geographic variation. These uncertainties are compounded by biases in the techniques used to estimate production by the microphytobenthos. In most environments studied, biomass (as chlorophyll a) and light availability appear to be the principal determinants of benthic primary production. The effect of variable light intensities on integral production can be described by a functional response curve. When normalized to the chlorophyll content of the surficial sediment, the residual variation in the data described by the functional response curve is due to changes in the chlorophyll-specific response to irradiance. Production by the benthos is often a significant fraction of production in the water column and microphytobenthos may contribute directly to water column production when they are resuspended. Thus on both the basis of biomass and biogeochemical reactivity, benthic microalgae play significant roles in system productivity and trophic dynamics, as well as such habitat characteristics as sediment stability. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** A01BY074 00003
Nonlinear Local Bending Response and Bulging Factors for Longitudinal Cracks in Pressurized Cylindrical Shells

Results of a geometrically nonlinear finite element parametric study to determine curvature correction factors or "bulging factors" that account for increased stresses due to curvature for longitudinal cracks in unstiffened pressurized cylindrical shells are presented. Geometric parameters varied in the study include the shell radius, the shell wall thickness, and the crack length. The major results are presented in graphs of the bulging factor as a function of the applied load and as a function of geometric parameters that include the shell radius, the shell thickness and the crack length. The computed bulging factors are compared with solutions based on linear shallow shell theory, and with semi-empirical solutions that approximately account for the nonlinear deformation in the vicinity of the crack. The effect of biaxial loads on the computed bulging factors is also discussed.
The moderating role of social desirability, age, and experience in human judgment: Just how indirect is policy capturing?

Abstract As policy capturing is becoming a popular methodology both in human judgment research and in publicly debated issues (e.g., Comparable Worth), it is important to assess the relative susceptibility of this and other methods to biases due to individual differences. The present study examined the moderating role of raters' social desirability (SD), age, and experience on the correspondence of judgments obtained via three methods. Industrial recruiters evaluated applicant profiles in a policy capturing task (Policy) and assigned weights to applicant attributes to reflect their importance to themselves (Self) and to others (Others). Overall judgments were predicted using the weights obtained from each task. Three judgment correspondence indices were generated by correlating predicted judgments from each pair of methods. Each of the indices was then regressed on recruiters' SD, age, experience, and their two- and three-way interactions. Results showed that the relationship of SD with judgment correspondence was nonuniform across raters' age and experience in the Policy-Self and Self-Others indexes. Analysis of the Policy-Self index in particular provided a profile of judges whose judgments via these two methods were similar and positively associated with their desire to be socially acceptable. Inferences about the susceptibility of policy capturing to SD response bias and theoretical and practical implications of these inferences are discussed.
Cochlear summating potential recorded from the external auditory meatus of normal humans. Amplitude-intensity functions and relationships to auditory nerve compound action potential

The summating potential (SP) and the auditory nerve compound action potential (AP) of the electrocochleogram were recorded from the external auditory meatus (EAM) of 10 normal subjects in response to alternating rarefaction and condensation clicks at 90-120 dB pe SPL. Both logarithmic and power functions suggested a similar strength of relationship between SP amplitude and stimulus intensity in each subject. However, a power function represented a more appropriate model of this relationship for the whole set of subjects than did the logarithmic function. Individual power function exponents varied from 0.35 to 0.56 with a weighted average of 0.46 and a S.E. of 0.03. By contrast, because of major heterogeneity of individual slopes at the high stimulus intensities eliciting EAM-measurable SPs, neither the logarithmic nor the power model provided a common description of the relationship between AP voltage and click strength for all subjects. Remarkable inter-individual variability also characterized the relationships between SP and AP amplitudes at various intensity levels and between the SP/AP amplitude ratio and click intensity. The lawful behavior of SP amplitude with varying click strength indicates that, in appropriate circumstance, non-invasive recordings from the ear canal of normal humans provide quantitative information on certain states of activity of cochlear receptors.
It takes a village to raise a tide: non-linear multiple-mode coupling and mode identification in KOI-54

We explore the tidal excitation of stellar modes in binary systems using Kepler observations of the remarkable eccentric binary KOI-54 (HD 187091; KIC 8112039), which displays strong ellipsoidal variation as well as a variety of linear and nonlinear pulsations. We report the amplitude and phase of over 120 harmonic and anharmonic pulsations in the system. We use pulsation phases to determine that the two largest-amplitude pulsations, the 90th and 91st harmonics, most likely correspond to axisymmetric m=0 modes in both stars, and thus cannot be responsible for resonance locks as had been recently proposed. We find evidence that the amplitude of at least one of these two pulsations is decreasing with a characteristic timescale of ~100 yr. We also use the pulsations' phases to confirm the onset of the traveling wave regime for harmonic pulsations with frequencies <~50 Omega_orbit, in agreement with theoretical expectations. We present evidence that many pulsations that are not harmonics of the orbital frequency correspond to modes undergoing simultaneous nonlinear coupling to multiple linearly driven parent modes. Since coupling among multiple modes can lower the threshold for nonlinear interactions, nonlinear phenomena may be easier to observe in highly eccentric systems, where broader arrays of driving frequencies are available. This may help to explain why the observed amplitudes of the linear pulsations are much smaller than the theoretical threshold for decay via three-mode coupling.
Some New Atomic Mass Measurements and Remarks on the Mass Evidence for Magic Numbers

New mass measurements are given for the nuclei ${\mathrm{Ti}}^{48}$, ${\mathrm{Sr}}^{86}$, ${\mathrm{Sr}}^{88}$, ${\mathrm{Mo}}^{98}$, ${\mathrm{Sn}}^{117}$, ${\mathrm{Sn}}^{120}$, ${\mathrm{Pt}}^{194}$, ${\mathrm{Pt}}^{196}$, and ${\mathrm{Pb}}^{208}$. The evidence given for the theory of magic numbers in nuclear structure by nuclear mass measurements is discussed.
Analysis of the moiré effect by use of the Wigner distribution function

The Wigner distribution function is used to analyze moire patterns that originate from a superposition of nonperiodic masks. For patterns with well-defined local frequencies, the concept of the Wigner distribution function allows one to extend the description of the moire effect in terms of vector sums. How this picture can be applied to design moire patterns and to analyze their information content is also discussed.
PROPAFENONE INHIBITION OF HUMAN ATRIAL MYOCYTE REPOLARIZING CURRENTS

This study was aimed at defining cellular electropharmacologic effects of propafenone on repolarizing currents in human atrial myocytes. Whole-cell patch-clamp of enzymatically isolated atrial myocytes from 11 cardiac surgical patients aged between 29 days and 74 years revealed potent time- and concentration-dependent (IC50=4.8±0.4μmol/l), but age-, voltage-, and frequency-independent propafenone inhibition of transient outward current. Time course of apparent transient outward current inactivation was best described by a single exponential process in the absence of propafenone and by a double exponential model in its presence, with drug-concentration-dependent acceleration of the fast exponential component. Neither voltage dependence of steady-state transient outward current inactivation nor time course of recovery from inactivation was affected by propafenone. Significant inhibition (P<0.05) of the ultra-rapidly activating delayed rectifier and inwardly rectifying currents was observed only in the presence of ≥10μmol/l propafenone. These actions of propafenone could explain its repolarization prolonging effect and might contribute to clinical electrophysiologic responses which have been documented in patients of all ages.
Streptococcus pneumoniae non-susceptibility and outpatient antimicrobial prescribing rates at the Alaska Native Medical Center.

Background . American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) people suffer substantially higher rates of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) than the general US population. We evaluated antimicrobial prescribing data and their association with non-susceptibility in Streptococcus pneumoniae causing IPD in AI/AN people between 1992 and 2009. Methods . Antimicrobial use data were gathered from the electronic patient management system and included all prescriptions dispensed to Alaska Native patients aged 5 years and older from outpatient pharmacies at the Alaska Native Medical Center (ANMC). Antimicrobial susceptibility data were gathered from pneumococcal isolates causing IPD among Anchorage Service Unit AI/AN residents aged 5 years and older. Data were restricted to serotypes not contained in the pneumococcal vaccine (PCV7). Results . Over the study period, overall antimicrobial prescribing increased 59% (285/1,000 persons/year in 1992 to 454/1,000 persons per year in 2009, p<0.001). Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole prescribing increased (43/1,000 persons/year in 1992 to 108/1,000 persons/year in 2009, p<0.001) and non-susceptibility to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in AI/AN patients ≥5 years of age increased in non-PCV7 serotypes (0–12%, p<0.05). Similarly, prescribing rates increased for macrolide antibiotics (46/1,000 persons/year in 1992 to 84/1,000 persons/year in 2009, p<0.05). We observed no statistically significant change over time in erythromycin non-susceptibility among non-PCV7 serotypes in AI/AN patients aged 5 years or greater (0–7%, p=0.087). Conclusion . Antimicrobial prescribing patterns of some antibiotics in the AI/AN population corresponded to increased antimicrobial resistance in clinical isolates. This study highlights the on-going threat of antimicrobial resistance, the critical importance of judicious prescribing of antibiotics and the potential utility of prescribing data for addressing this issue. Keywords: Streptococcus pneumoniae; invasive pneumococcal disease; antibiotic resistance; antibiotic prescribing; susceptibility; Alaska Natives; Alaska (Published: 17 December 2013) Citation: Int J Circumpolar Health 2013, 72 : 22297 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/ijch.v72i0.22297
C-reactive protein impairs the endothelial glycocalyx resulting in endothelial dysfunction.

Aims Inflammation is pivotal in atherosclerosis and a key early step is endothelial dysfunction. C-reactive protein, the prototypic marker of inflammation, and cardiovascular risk marker have been shown to promote atherogenesis. Increased levels of C-reactive protein are associated with endothelial dysfunction. The glycocalyx decorates the luminal surface and affords critical protection of the endothelium. Thus, the aim of the study was to examine the effect of C-reactive protein on the endothelial glycocalyx. Methods and results Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were incubated with C-reactive protein at different concentrations (0, 12.5, 25, and 50 µg/mL) with boiled C-reactive protein as a control. For in vivo experiments, human C-reactive protein was injected into rats and human serum albumin was used as a control. Endothelial glycocalyx thickness was examined by transmission electron microscopy. Hyaluronan (HA) was examined in the supernatant of HAECs and in plasma and surface expression of heparan sulfate (HS) was quantified. C-reactive protein dose-dependently increased HA release in vitro and in vivo ( P < 0.01). Also, glycocalyx thickness was significantly decreased ( P < 0.05). Western blotting for HS showed significant reduction in expression of HS, one of the main glycosaminoglycans in the glycocalyx, with C-reactive protein treatment. There was a significant positive correlation between HA release and monocyte–endothelial cell adhesion, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 release and a negative correlation with endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity. Conclusion Collectively, these data suggest that C-reactive protein impairs glycocalyx function, resulting in endothelial dysfunction.
The girth of a directed distance-regular graph

Abstract Let G be a distance-regular digraph of short type, that is, with diameter d equal to g − 1 where g is the girth. Suppose the valency k > 1, so that G is not a directed cycle. Then the structure of Γ 1 ( u ) forces g ≤ 8.
The shifting tide of expectations

Interest, hype, and expectation in areas of materials science can surge and then fade away, as in many aspects of modern life.
The challenge of new media in French and American politics: Concepts, methods and opportunities

As the digital revolution in political discourse continues, there are some important conceptual, methodological and empirical challenges that must be met by scholars interested in new media politics in both France and the United States. Some of the challenges that the Internet poses to basic concepts and procedures in the field of political communication are profound, and perhaps explain a lack of disciplinary consensus on any kind of theory. This article uses an example of recent research to highlight these difficulties and suggest some possible solutions. It then surveys the realm of new media politics in France, and offers some suggestions for future research.
THE EFFECT OF ALCOHOL ON THE CHOLINE REQUIREMENT : I. CHANGES IN THE RAT'S LIVER FOLLOWING PROLONGED INGESTION OF ALCOHOL

Rats maintained for a period of 7 months on a fluid intake of 15 per cent alcohol and a diet marginal in lipotropic activity developed fatty infiltration and mild fibrosis of the liver. Similar changes were observed in pair-fed controls given an isocaloric equivalent of sucrose instead of alcohol, but not in pair-fed controls receiving neither alcohol nor sucrose supplements. To exclude the possibility that the alcohol effect was related to an augmentation of the caloric intake, a third group of controls was given the same amount of alcohol, but a limited number of calories. This was accomplished by subtracting from the basal diet an amount of sucrose equivalent in calories to the alcohol consumed. Under these conditions the hepatic changes following alcohol ingestion appeared to be enhanced. Choline or methionine, on the other hand, abolished the effects of both alcohol and sucrose supplements. There was no increase in fecal nitrogen excretion following alcohol ingestion, and no histological changes were observed in the pancreas. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that alcohol increases the choline requirement of the rat, but do not support the contention that this effect is the consequence of an augmented caloric intake. Further studies are needed to establish conclusively the relationship between alcohol ingestion and the choline requirement, and to elucidate the mechanisms involved.
T and B cell responses to myelin basic protein and encephalitogenic epitopes

Abstract The major encephalitogenic epitope of myelin basic protein (MBP) for the Lewis rat includes residues 68–84, although a minor epitope has been localized to MBP residues 87–99. We synthesized MBP68–84 and MBP87–99, and immunized rats with these peptides or with MBP in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). MBP and MBP68–84 induced paralytic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) at equimolar concentrations, whereas significantly higher dosages of MBP87–99 were required to elicit paralytic disease. Spleen cells (SpC) from MBP- or MBP68–84-immunized rats could be activated with either MBP or MBP68–84 to transfer EAE to recipients. Anti-MBP antibodies were detected by ELISA in rats immunized with MBP-CFA, and anti-MBP68–84 specific antibodies were present in serum obtained from MBP68–84-immunized animals. However, these antibodies were non-cross reactive. MBP87–99 elicited only a meager antibody response to the immunizing peptide, and cross reactivity with MBP was not observed. Thus, although MBP and each peptide exhibited encephalitogenic activity, and MBP and MBP68–84 were cross reactive at the T cell level, the absence of cross reactivity at the humoral level indicates that significant immunological differences exist between MBP and the synthetic determinants, which may reflect differences in epitope recognition by T and B lymphocytes.
Application of the transtheoretical model of behavior change for obesity in Mexican American women

The prevalence, consequences, and resistance to treatment of obesity make it one of the most difficult psychological and medical problems in society today. The incidence of obesity is greater in Mexican Americans than in Caucasians. The purpose of this study was to apply the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change on a sample of Mexican American women in weight-loss study. Questionnaires assessing the stages and processes of change were shortened, translated, and administered to subjects. Cluster analyses were conducted to determine the stage of change profiles, with five distinct profiles emerging. These profiles are consistent with those reported in previous research on smoking, psychotherapy, alcoholism, and overeating. Relationships among stages, processes, and profiles of change were examined and found to be consistent with previous research. This study supports the use of the Transtheoretical Model with Mexican American women who were enrolled in a behaviorally oriented weight-loss program. Results of the study are limited owing to a small sample size; however, it does provide a foundation to incorporate Hispanic populations in future studies pertaining to stages and processes of behavior change.
Assessment of transmission, pathogenesis and adaptation of H2 subtype influenza viruses in ferrets.

After their disappearance from the human population in 1968, influenza H2 viruses have continued to circulate in the natural avian reservoir. The isolation of this virus subtype from multiple bird species as well as swine highlights the need to better understand the potential of these viruses to spread and cause disease in humans. Here we analyzed the virulence, transmissibility and receptor-binding preference of two avian influenza H2 viruses (H2N2 and H2N3) and compared them to a swine H2N3 (A/swine/Missouri/2124514/2006 [swMO]), and a human H2N2 (A/England/10/1967 [Eng/67]) virus using the ferret model as a mammalian host. Both avian H2 viruses possessed the capacity to spread efficiently between cohoused ferrets, and the swine (swMO) and human (Eng/67) viruses transmitted to naive ferrets by respiratory droplets. Further characterization of the swMO hemagglutinin (HA) by x-ray crystallography and glycan microarray array identified receptor-specific adaptive mutations. As influenza virus quasispecies dynamics during transmission have not been well characterized, we sequenced nasal washes collected during transmission studies to better understand experimental adaptation of H2 HA. The avian H2 viruses isolated from ferret nasal washes contained mutations in the HA1, including a Gln226Leu substitution, which is a mutation associated with α2,6 sialic acid (human-like) binding preference. These results suggest that the molecular structure of HA in viruses of the H2 subtype continue to have the potential to adapt to a mammalian host and become transmissible, after acquiring additional genetic markers.
Submersible Studies of Current-Modified Bottom Topography in Lake Superior

Abstract Submersible studies of deep-lake sedimentary features, especially furrows (at 100 m water depth) and large arcuate depressions (at 240 m water depth), in an area directly north of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Lake Superior, have shown that currents deep in the lake are important agents in depositing and eroding sediments and in creating surficial sediment variability. Furrows are linear, parallel troughs created by flow-sediment interactions, and these bedforms are commonly observed in estuaries and in the deep sea. Sedimentological and isotopic studies show that sediment accumulation rates vary by 60% to 80% across the furrow profile (lower accumulation rates in the trough). Also, strong currents (to 28.5 cm/sec at 10 m above the bottom) sweep the bottom at 100 m water depth during the fall, winter, and spring when the lake is poorly stratified. These currents are strong enough to erode the furrowed sediments. Large arcuate depressions (about 5 m deep, 50 m wide, and 300 m long) are eroded into varved, carbonate-rich gray glacial clays in the deep lake floor. Ripples, developed on the trough walls, suggest that deep currents are occasionally strong enough to rework sediments at 240 m. Also, carbonate in the varved gray clays exposed on the walls and floor of the depressions may be dissolved by the undersaturated lake waters, leading to enhanced erosion. Both furrows and arcuate depressions have been observed in other Great Lakes.
Firm performance: the interactions of corporate social performance with innovation and industry differentiation

The impact of corporate social performance on firm financial performance has been examined previously with mixed results. This study examines the possibility that corporate social performance enhances financial performance by allowing the firm to differentiate, and that this effect may be moderated both by innovation, which also drives firm differentiation, and the level of differentiation in the industry. Hypotheses concerning both direct and moderating effects are developed and tested using secondary data. Our results support both innovation and the level of differentiation in the industry as moderators for a positive relationship between corporate social performance and financial performance: corporate social performance most strongly affects performance in low-innovation firms and in industries with little differentiation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Traumatic evisceration of intestinal loops through the anus

A case of traumatic evisceration of intestinal loops through the anus in a young child is presented. This unusual injury took place in a swimming pool and was brought about when a negative pressure applied to the child's perineum by the suction pump created a pressure differential of sufficient force to cause the injury. Surgical management of the case is discussed.