cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Viewpoint: A proposal to reconstruct the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) into a universal basic income program for food

Abstract Food insecurity has emerged as a leading measure of well-being in the U.S. due to the magnitude of the problem, the array of associated negative health consequences, and higher health care costs. The Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program) has ensured that the extent of food insecurity is less than it would otherwise be but many food insecure Americans aren’t on the program due to choice or ineligibility and SNAP benefits are often not enough for current recipients. In this paper I consider what would happen if SNAP was instead structured as a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program. Using a measure of additional dollars needed by food insecure households (the resource gap) and data from the 2019 December Supplement of the Current Population Survey (CPS), I find an 88.8% decline in food insecurity rates if the costs are borne by households in higher income-tax brackets. The cost to this would be approximately $730.1 billion. If, instead, the UBI was only extended to those with incomes up to 400% of the poverty line, the decline in food insecurity is slightly lower at 88.5% but at a much lower cost of $408.5 billion. If benefits were expanded by roughly 25% and only extended to those with incomes up to 400% of the poverty line, the reduction would be 98.2% at a cost of $564.5 billion.
Knockdown of astrocytic monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) in the motor cortex leads to loss of dendritic spines and a deficit in motor learning

Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) shuttle molecules, including L-lactate, involved in metabolism and cell signaling of the central nervous system. Astrocyte-specific MCT4 is a key component of the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS) and is important for neuroplasticity and learning of the hippocampus. However, the importance of astrocyte-specific MCT4 in neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex remains unknown. In this study, we investigated astrocyte-specific MCT4 in motor learning and neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex using a cell-type specific shRNA knockdown of MCT4. Knockdown of astrocyte-specific MCT4 resulted in impaired motor performance and learning on the accelerating rotarod. In addition, MCT4 knockdown was associated with a reduction of neuronal dendritic spine density and spine width and decreased protein expression of PSD95 and Arc. Using near-infrared-conjugated 2-deoxyglucose uptake as a surrogate marker for neuronal activity, MCT4 knockdown was also associated with decreased neuronal activity in the M1 primary motor cortex and associated motor regions including the dorsal striatum and ventral thalamus. Our study supports a potential role for astrocyte-specific MCT4 and the ANLS in the neuroplasticity of the M1 primary motor cortex. Targeting MCT4 may serve to enhance neuroplasticity and motor repair in several neurological disorders, including Parkinson9s disease and stroke.
A GIS-based framework for local agricultural decision-making and regional crop yield simulation

Abstract CONTEXT In agricultural activities, the decision-making process is central to agricultural system management and subsequent crop yield. As a powerful tool in field-specific decision-making processes, crop simulation models have the potential to simulate crop yields on a large scale. However, their performance is often biased by the spatial heterogeneity of environment and management factors when applied over a large scale. OBJECTIVE The major objectives of this study include: (1) Predicting and evaluating the annual yields of dominant crops with real rotation scenarios; (2) Locating fields with low crop yield and determining possible reasons; and (3) Evaluating the improvement for crop yield with different management strategies. METHODS This study proposed a crop yield simulation framework at the regional level by coupling a cropping system model (CropSyst) with a geographic information system (QGIS) to provide more reliable information for the decision-making process. In the study of a cropland concentrated USGS sub-watershed (Hydrologic Unit Code: 031402030101) in Geneva County, Alabama, we estimated the annual yields of four regionally dominant crops (i.e., corn, cotton, soybean, and peanuts) from 2016 to 2018. Low yield fields were identified in the simulation results visualization. Moreover, four management strategies were tested at a field scale to improve annual yields. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Overall, the simulated crop yields were significantly correlated with the recorded values (Pearson's r = 0.99). However, the performance of the regional model varied for different crops. The model achieved the best performance for soybean with a high index of agreement (0.93) and modeling efficiency (0.86). For cotton, the model achieved positive model efficiency (0.23) and a good index of agreement (0.59). For peanut and maize, the model fitted records well but not sensitive enough. According to the visualization of simulation results, we located fields with low yields. The low organic matter content and high sand percentage of the soil were the potential causes of the nitrogen deficiency, which leads to the low yield subsequently. In field scale tests, four proposed management strategies could increase the cotton yields as high as 74.4%. But some strategies would also increase greenhouse gas emissions at the same time. SIGNIFICANCE This study bridges the gap between local cropping system models and the regional estimation of crop yields. The GIS-based crop simulation framework developed here demonstrates the potential of cropping system models to provide reliable information at a regional scale and hence significantly broadens their application in the agricultural decision-making process.
Triangulating spatial relationships from single-cell interaction maps.

A combined experimental and computational approach to transcriptomic profiling of cell ‘multiplets’ enables the reconstruction of cell–cell interactions and higher-order structural features of biological tissues.
The Precession Index, a Nonlinear Energy Balance Model, and Seversmith Psychroterms

An important component of Milankovitch's astronomical theory of climate change is the precession index. The precession index, along with the Earth's tilt and orbital eccentricity, are believed to be the major controlling factors of climate change in the last few million years. The precession index is e sin omega(sub s) where e is the Earth's orbital eccentricity and omega(sub s) measures how close the Sun is to the Earth at midsummer. When omega(sub s) = 90deg the Sun is close to the Earth during northern summer, and at 270deg it is far from the Earth during northern summer. The precession index varies with time, because both the eccentricity e and the parameter omega(sub s) are constantly changing due to disturbances in the Earth's orbit by other planets, and due to the precession of the Earth, The change is largely periodic, with a period of about 23,000 years.
Just Put Your Lips Together and Blow? The Whistled Fricatives of Southern Bantu

Just put your lips together and blow? The whistled fricatives of Southern Bantu Ryan K. Shosted 12∗ Dept of Linguistics, University of California, Berkeley 1203 Dwinelle Hall #2650 – Berkeley, CA 94120-2650 USA Dept of Linguistics, University of California, San Diego 9500 Gilman Drive #108 – La Jolla, CA 92093-0108 USA shosted@berkeley.edu Abstract. Phonemically, whistled fricatives /s Ţ z / are rare, limited almost en- tirely to Southern Bantu. Reports differ as to whether they are realized with labial protrusion and / or rounding. Phonetically, whistled sibilants are com- mon; they are regarded as a feature of disordered speech in English. According to the clinical literature, unwanted whistled fricatives are triggered by dental prosthesis and / or orthodontics that alter the geometry of the incisors—not by aberrant lip rounding. Based on aeroacoustic models of various types of whis- tle supplemented with acoustic data from the Southern Bantu language Tshwa (S51), this paper contends that labiality is not necessary for the production of whistled fricatives. 1. Introduction 1.1. Typology Few phonemes are as typologically restricted as the so-called whistled, whistling, or whistly fricatives / s Ţ z Ţ /. 1 They are said to occur in only a handful of languages: the Shona (S10) and Tshwa-Ronga (S50) groups of Southern Bantu (Bladon et al., 1987; Sitoe, This research was supported by a Jacob K. Javits Fellowship and a Fulbright Fellowship to the author. I would like to thank John Ohala, Keith Johnson, and Ian Maddieson for their insights. I am also grateful to Larry Hyman for his help with the diachronic data. Sam Liebhaber graciously shared his Sheh ri materials ˙ literature. with me. Joyce Cohen and Dr. George Murrell, D.D.S., introduced me to the prosthodontics My colleagues and linguistic consultants at the N´ucleo de Estudos de L´inguas Ind´igenas Moc¸ambicanas, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique were also influential in this resarch. Any errors are my own. The vertical subscript arrows are used for whistled fricatives in the clinical literature (ICPLA, 1994). As far as I know, I am the first to use this transcription for the whistled fricatives of Bantu. Ladefoged and Maddieson (1996, 171) choose not to represent the sound symbolically in their explicit discussion of whistled fricatives. Later, however, they use the symbols [s — — z ] to refer to “a pair of rounded fricatives,” in Shona, but with no reference to the whistle (358). Bladon et al. (1987) and Maddieson (2003, 20, 27) use /s — — z / but this seems unsatisfactory since the diacritic [—] elsewhere signifies only labialization (IPA, 1979). Sitoe (1996) uses /u u /, signifying retroflexion. This may represent the whistling ‘gesture’ better than [s — ], which is really just the older transcription of [s w ] (IPA, 1949). Contemporary orthographies of Shona and Tshwa-Ronga languages use the digraphs sv and zv.
Epoxy Impregnated Solenoid Coil Training Dependence on Boundary Forces and Peak Field

Five solenoid coils are required for the axial component of a Minimum B magnetic field of a confined plasma ion source under construction at NSCL. The design requires an inside radius of 0.15 m and a coil current density of 12 kA/cm2 at a Bmax of 3.5 T. The initial fabrication scheme was envisaged to be wet wound coils in pockets on the outside of a stainless steel bobbin, (the inner surface being reserved for a six coil superconducting hexapole magnet that completes the magnetic structure). Finite element analysis indicated the possibility of large internal and boundary stresses on the epoxy/coil composite, and we have completed several empirical studies of this geometry. We have measured bobbin to epoxy bond strengths, and have found that the best, most consistent results are obtained by acid etching the stainless steel for good epoxy adhesion. A test arrangement of three coils with differing boundary conditions (potted in pocket, potted in lineal pocket and a free coil) reached, respectively, 40, 48 and 58 kA/cm2 after training. Finite element analysis indicate the probable failure mode of the fixed coil to be boundary stress and for the free coils, internal shear is the indicated failure mode.
Monetary regime changes and the behavior of ex ante real interest rates: a multi-country study

Abstract Previous research has found that U.S. monetary regime changes are related to changes in the behavior of ex ante real interest rates. This paper examines monetary regime changes in other countries to test whether changes in expected real interest rates are related to monetary regime changes in a systematic manner. The results show that while real rates have not been constant across monetary regimes, the characteristics of the real rate process shifts differ across countries. This evidence is consistent with theories that predict the neutrality of monetary regime changes with respect to real variables.
A Theory of Preemptive Entrenchment

Entrenchment can benefit shareholders since aggressive managers deter rivals and, thus, make competition softer in the product market. I formalize this intuition within a simple industry equilibrium model of optimal entrenchment and test its implications empirically. The key cross-sectional prediction of the model is that industry leaders benefit most from preemptive entrenchment, since they suffer relatively larger losses in market share from facing tougher competition. I find strong support for this prediction and a number of related cross-sectional implications of my model using a large sample of U.S. public firms between 1990 and 2005 and a wide variety of entrenchment measures, such as external (antitakeover provisions, state antitakeover laws) and internal (board size and independence, institutional shareholders and pension funds) governance. In particular, I find that (i) industry leaders are more entrenched than laggards; (ii) the valuation effect of entrenchment is negative for laggards, but positive for leaders. Moreover, the link between industry leadership and the valuation effect of entrenchment is more pronounced in industries that are more concentrated, relatively less heterogeneous, and less subject to foreign competition. These findings offer a novel perspective over the debate on whether governance creates value by documenting when that is actually the case.
Fully integrated bandpass filters for wireless transceivers-problems and promises

Despite decades of research into developing true, single-chip radio transceivers, most commercial designs continue to rely on off-chip components for bandpass filtering. Implementing these filters on-chip remains nearly as challenging today as it was 10 years ago, due to the demanding system requirements of modern radio standards, and few technologies have made it into commercial production. Exceptions include the sporadic adoption of low-Q active filters in IF subsystems and the occasional use of low-Q LC filtering in front-end designs. This paper overviews filter performance requirements and implementation alternatives, and identifies fundamental as well as technological constraints limiting their use. An example design of a Q-enhanced LC filter for Bluetooth applications at 2.4 GHz is also discussed.
Reconstitution of Purple Membrane Vesicles Catalyzing Light-driven Proton Uptake and Adenosine Triphosphate Formation

Abstract The purple membrane from Halobacterium halobium was incorporated into phospholipid vesicles. On illumination (2 x 106 ergs per cm2 per s) the reconstituted vesicles took up protons (50 to 200 ng of ions H+ per mg of purple protein) which were released in the dark. Addition of valinomycin accelerated both the rate of uptake in the light and the release of protons in the dark. Uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation abolished the uptake of protons. Inclusion of the mitochondrial oligomycin-sensitive ATPase during reconstitution yielded vesicles which catalyzed light-dependent phosphorylation. These reconstituted vesicles represent a simple model system for a biological proton pump capable of generating ATP from ADP and Pi.
A Research-Based Reconsideration of the Psychoanalytic Theory of Dreaming:

We present a brief review of sleep research which, when combined with psychoanalytic experience, has led to the hypothesis that REM sleep and dreaming serve the function of adaptation by the process of integration of information. We then report the results of a study of dreams, based on this hypothesis. We studied dreams and their relation to waking mental activity and found a correlation between problems in manifest dreams and those in pre- and postsleep waking life. Dreams can be understood on the basis of problems that appear in them. We also found evidence for a relation between the solution of problems in dreams and the fate of those problems the next day. We discuss these findings in relation to some of the controversies about dreaming, and then present suggestions for future research.
Denaturation of the folacin-binding protein in pasteurized milk products

The folacin-binding characteristics and chromatographic properties of the folacin-binding protein (FBP) of commercial pasteurized skim milk and whey protein concentrate were compared with those of fresh raw cows' milk. Native state FBP recently has been shown to enhance the intestinal absorption of folacin, whereas the FBP of pasteurized milk is ineffective. Anion-exchange chromatography indicated no major electrostatic differences in the FBP of these products, although gel-filtration chromatography provided evidence of enhanced FBP aggregation in the pasteurized whey protein concentrate. Analysis of folic acid binding kinetics by using Scatchard and Hill plots indicated that pasteurization or subsequent processing induces alterations in binding cooperatively, its pH dependence, or both. These results suggest that partial denaturation during pasteurization alters the folacin-binding characteristics and extent of molecular interaction of FBP. These changes may be responsible for the reported differences between raw and pasteurized milk products in their ability to enhance folacin absorption. Further research is needed to clarify the biological significance of these findings with respect to potential differences in folacin bioavailability from breast milk, pasteurized cows' milk and infant formulas.
A portrait of the insider trader as a woman

This revised draft book chapter describes the interrelationship between gender and U.S insider trading law and explores (anecdotally and through extensions of existing gender studies outside the insider trading realm) the potential roles and significance of gender in that context. Although women have become more visible as participants in the securities markets and as alleged and actual transgressors of insider trading rules, the role of women in insider trading is still ill understood, except anecdotally. In sum, the portrait of the insider trader as a woman is a work in process.
Magnetic Water Conditioning

Hard scale is a significant problem costing billions of dollars annually throughout the world in industrial, commercial, and residential equipment that utilizes heat transfer surfaces. The development and use of technologies that can help reduce hard scale and the use of vital energy, water, and other resources is critically important as society grapples with increasingly more common resource shortages and environmental pollution. One important green technology that can reduce scale that results from hard water in a wide variety of applications (including boilers, hot water heaters, cooling towers, and steamers) is permanent magnetic water conditioning. Magnetic water conditioning is a nonchemical treatment option that can be used as a replacement for most water-softening equipment. It can also be used as a preconditioner to allow other water treatment technology to work more efficiently and last longer. Whether it is used as a primary treatment device or as a preconditioner for other technologies, magnetic water conditioning can reduce the use of hazardous chemicals, maintenance downtimes, and labor costs and can result in overall cost savings compared to other strategies for scale reduction or removal. Keywords: hard water; scale control; magnetic water conditioner; magnetic water conditioning; magnetic water treatment; magnetic technology; green technology; water treatment; water conditioning
Technical forum: information reuse parallels software reuse

Organizations that place a high value on their information can best leverage and maintain that information if they apply the same infrastructure and techniques used for reusable software. The software life cycle produces several types of reusable information such as customer information, product development information, and process information. Just as software reuse benefits from structured programming practices, information reuse benefits from the use of common tools, centrally coordinated standards and terminology, and development practices consistent with good writing and design.
So you think you can edit

This article presents one scientist's perspective on the transition from life at the bench to an editorial career.
The Biochemical Basis of Cobalamin Deficiency

Objective In this report, our goal was to summarize the current knowledge of the biochemical basis for the impaired DNA synthesis and neuropathy associated with vitamin B 12 deficiency. Material and Methods We reviewed the pertinent literature and our clinical experience with cobalamin deficiency. Results Studies have established that the megaloblastic hematopoiesis associated with vitamin B 12 and folate deficiency is secondary to impaired DNA synthesis. Two mechanisms of impairment of DNA synthesis have been proposed: the "methylfolate trap hypothesis" and the "formate starvation hypothesis." One possibility is that both hypotheses may be contributory—that is, incoming dietary folate may be inaccessible for polyglutamation in accordance with the methylfolate trap hypothesis, whereas the formate starvation hypothesis may explain the failure to use already polyglutamated forms of folate. Conclusion Although the pathophysiologic mechanisms of vitamin B 12 and folate deficiency are not completely understood, nutritional anemias offer suitable models for the study of the biochemical basis of disease.
SUPPORTING EFFICIENT, EVIDENCE‐CENTERED ITEM DEVELOPMENT FOR THE GRE VERBAL MEASURE

This paper explores alternative approaches for facilitating efficient, evidence-centered item development for a new type of verbal reasoning item developed for use on the GRE® General Test. Results obtained in two separate studies are reported. The first study documented the development and validation of a fully automated approach for locating the types of stimulus materials needed to support more efficient generation of the studied item type. The validation results confirmed that the proposed filtering technique can help item writers increase the percentage of acceptable stimulus paragraphs located per unit time interval from the current level of about 10% to nearly 30%. The second study documented the development and validation of a set of task models designed to help item writers generate new items that are optimally constructed to provide high-quality evidence about targeted skills. The proposed models were validated by considering the percentage of difficulty variance accounted for by the specified item classifications. That amount ranged from slightly more than 30% for items designed to test vocabulary skills to slightly more than 40% for items designed to test additional verbal reasoning skills, such as generating near and far inferences and understanding complex oppositional reasoning.
Do companions of designated drivers drink excessively

Abstract Purpose: A common criticism of designated driver programs (DDPs) is that they promote excessive drinking among companions of the designated driver (DD). Methods: Data were collected from two representative samples of drinkers using computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATIs), and questionnaires administered to customers in barrooms. Results: Most respondents drank moderately—had usual estimated blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) of less than 0.10 when they used DDs. Differences between respondents' estimated BACs when they used a DD and when they drank outside their homes were very small: 0.017 in both samples. Additional analyses examined shifts between lower and higher categories of risk defined as a BAC of less than 0.10 and a BAC of 0.10 or greater. A minority, 15% of CATI and 30% of barroom respondents, switched to the higher risk category when using a DD. These CATI and barroom respondents increased their BACs by an average of 0.089 and 0.11, respectively. Risk associated with this increase was mitigated, however, by respondents' infrequent use of DDs. Implications: Use of DDs was not generally associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Since a minority of respondents did drink heavily when using a DD, programs promoting DD use should caution drinkers that the availability of a DD is not an excuse for excessive consumption, and remind hosts and servers that they should not overserve their guests or customers even when they have a DD.
The 1992 Elections

Upside Down and Inside Out: The 1992 Elections and American Politics. By James Ceaser and Andrew Busch. (Lanham, MD: Littlefield Adams, 1993. Pp. ix, 191. $14.95 paper.) America's Choice: The Election of 1992. Edited by William Crotty. (Guilford, CT: Dushkin, 1993. Pp. viii, 200. $12.95 paper.) The Elections of 1992. Edited by Michael Nelson. (Washington, DC: Congressional Quarterly Press, 1993. Pp. xii, 192. $18.95 paper.) The Election of 1992. Edited by Gerald M. Pomper. (Chatham, NJ: Chatham House, 1992. Pp. ix, 230. $16.95 paper.)
Characterization of Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Epoxy-Glass Microballoon Syntactic Composites

The density of hollow particle (microballoon) filled composites called syntactic foams can be varied by two methods. The first method is the variation in microballoon volume fraction and the second method is the variation in the microballoon wall thickness, while keeping their volume fraction the same. A comparison of compressive properties of syntactic foams having microballoons of four different wall thicknesses in five volume fraction each is presented here. It is found that the compressive strength and modulus vary linearly with respect to the foam density. Dielectric constant, dielectric loss and electrical impedance are measured for four syntactic foam compositions with respect to temperature and frequency. Dielectric constant and loss are found to decrease with increase in frequency and with decrease in temperature in the range of 40–140°C.
Nociceptive-induced Myocardial Remote Conditioning Is Mediated By Neuronal Gamma Protein Kinase C

Deciphering the remote conditioning molecular mechanism may provide targets to develop therapeutics that can broaden the clinical application. To further investigate this, we tested whether two protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes, the ubiquitously expressed epsilon PKC (ePKC) and the neuronal-specific gamma PKC (γPKC), mediate nociceptive-induced remote myocardial conditioning. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used for both in vivo and ex vivo myocardial ischemia–reperfusion protocols. For the in vivo studies, using a surgical abdominal incision for comparison, applying only to the abdomen either bradykinin or the ePKC activator (ψeRACK) reduced myocardial infarct size (45 ± 1, 44 ± 2 %, respectively, vs. incision: 43 ± 2 %, and control: 63 ± 2 %, P < 0.001). Western blot showed only ePKC, and not γPKC, is highly expressed in the myocardium. However, applying a selective γPKC inhibitor (γV5−3) to the abdominal skin blocked remote protection by any of these strategies. Using an ex vivo isolated heart model without an intact nervous system, only selective ePKC activation, unlike a selective classical PKC isozyme activator (activating α, β, βII, and γ), reduced myocardial injury. Importantly, the classical PKC isozyme activator given to the abdomen in vivo (with an intact nervous system including γPKC) during myocardial ischemia reduced infarct size as effectively as an abdominal incision or ψeRACK (45 ± 1 vs. 45 ± 2 and 47 ± 1 %, respectively). The classical PKC activator-induced protection was also blocked by spinal cord surgical transection. These findings identified potential remote conditioning mimetics, with these strategies effective even during myocardial ischemia. A novel mechanism of nociceptive-induced remote conditioning, involving γPKC, was also identified.
Differential rates of lung growth as measured longitudinally by pulmonary function in children and adolescents.

A sample population of 67 males and 71 females with longitudinal lung function and other anthropometric measurements from all non-Hispanic white children in the Tucson Epidemiological Study of Airway Obstructive Diseases (AOD) was studied to evaluate biological determinants of the rate of lung growth. Groups within gender were defined by the following factors: 1) maximum height, 2) age at maximum forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1), 3) % predicted initial FEV1 or FEV1/FVC ratio. Only groups defined by low initial function (FEV1 or FEV1/FVC ≤ 85% predicted versus >85% predicted) showed statistically significant differences from those with more “normal” function by comparing their maximum % of predicted FEV1s and FEV1/FVC ratios. The longitudinal FEV1 data by age for the latter groups were characterized by a mathematical model (polynomial smoothing spline) yielding optimal fitted curves and an estimate of each group's growth velocity curve. The statistical comparisons between these fitted curves indicate that subjects with low initial pulmonary function continued to have significantly lower FEV1 values for males older than 13.12 years and for females between 8.23 and 15.3 years. At post-hoc analysis persistent wheezing was more likely in the initially more impaired group. Disease at the end of follow-up was not related to initial functional status. Pediatr Pulmonol 1990; 8:145-154.
Combined face-body tracking in indoor environment

Background subtraction is commonly used for tracking objects in outdoor environment. But it doesn't work that well indoors, because of the problems caused by illumination change, shadows, occlusion and targets' changing appearances. In contrast, color tracking is relatively resistant to these problems, but suffers from the need of initialization. To complete the specific human tracking task in indoor environment, This work utilizes the specific human face-body structure, and tracks face and body simultaneously and cooperatively. The advantage of this approach is that it can keep tracking in some bad situations, when one of the parts is missing, which makes it more robust than single-part tracking. Experimental tracking results on a meeting room video data are given.
The origin of female-biased sex ratios in intertidal seagrasses (Phyllospadix spp.)

Flowering sex ratios of dioecious plants are commonly male-biased but rarely female-biased. While greater costs of reproduction from females have been repeatedly demonstrated and explain male biases, male reproductive costs almost never exceed female costs, making the origins of female biases enigmatic. I investigated the seagrasses Phyllospadix scouleri and P. serrulatus (surfgrasses), which have some of the most extreme female-biased sex ratios documented (>90% female), to identify the mechanisms driving sex ratio bias. I developed sex-linked amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers and applied them to three P. scouleri life stages at four sites to determine when during the life cycle sex ratio bias arises. Sex ratios were even among seedlings but became more female-biased at later life stages, indicating that sex ratios were driven by male-biased mortality. To identify when during the life cycle sex ratio bias developed, I examined sex differences in survival among seedlings and three aspects of reproductive costs that could potentially generate biased sex ratios under field conditions. No differences in seedling survival between the sexes were detected, and there was no evidence of substantial sex differences in costs of reproduction. I found no support for a trade-off between current and future reproduction or between reproductive investment and growth. Thus, costs of reproduction appear unlikely to drive sex ratio bias in surfgrass. Instead, small sex differences in growth and survival spread across the life cycle appear to be responsible for female-biased sex ratios and suggest that life history trade-offs other than reproductive costs drive sex ratio bias.
An Improved Preference Data Collection Method: Balanced Incomplete Block Designs

Numerous preference data collection methodologies exist. However, one of the relatively efficient methods has received far less attention than deserved. It is the balanced incomplete block (BIB) design. In this article, the author provides an overview of BIB designs, discusses corresponding advantages and limitations, presents appropriate statistical procedures for analyzing preference data, and illustrates the methodology underlying the development and application of BIB designs with a real-world marketing problem.
Hair follicle response of the golden syrian hamster flank organ to continuous testosterone stimulation using silastic capsules

Abstract The hamster flank organ has served as a model to study androgen-dependent responses of the skin, but the quantitative response of hair follicles to androgenic stimulation has been neglected. We assayed the hair follicle response to testosterone (T) and compared it to the response of the sebaceous glands and of the dermal pigment in the Golden Syrian hamster flank organ. Because of biologic variation in male animals and uneven absorption of hormone from parenteral injections, we implanted silastic capsules 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2 cm in length filled with crystalline T subcutaneously into female hamsters for 6 weeks. Hair follicle response to T was more sensitive than sebaceous gland or pigment. Diameters of hairs under the sebaceous gland increased significantly from control values of 27.7 ± 1.0 μm to 38.0 ± 1.6 μm at the lowest dose of T tested, the 0.25-cm capsule ( p We conclude that T affects hair by specifically stimulating growth of individual hairs physically under the sebaceous gland. As the whole flank organ enlarges more hairs are recruited to become larger but no new follicles appear. These studies also confirm that there are different sensitivities to androgen within the various androgen-dependent components of the hamster flank organ, with increase in hair diameter being highly sensitive. This model should be useful for the specific and quantitative assessment of androgenic and antiandrogenic substances on hair growth and ultimately be useful for therapy of hirsutism.
Organization of projections from the juxtacapsular nucleus of the BST: a PHAL study in the rat

The axonal projections of the juxtacapsular nucleus of the anterior division of the bed nuclei of the stria terminalis (BSTju) were examined with the Phaseolus vulgaris-leucoagglutinin (PHAL) method in the adult male rat. Our results indicate that the BSTju displays a relatively simple projection pattern. First, it densely innervates the medial central amygdalar nucleus and the subcommissural zone and caudal anterolateral area of the BST - cell groups involved in visceromotor responses. Second, it provides inputs to the ventromedial caudoputamen (CP) and anterior basolateral amygdalar nucleus - areas presumably modulating somatomotor outflow. Third, the BSTju sends dense projections to the caudal substantia innominata, a distinct caudal dorsolateral region of the compact part of the substantia nigra, and the adjacent mesencephalic reticular nucleus and retrorubral area. And fourth, the BSTju provides light inputs to the prelimbic, infralimbic, and ventral CA1 cortical areas; to the posterior basolateral, posterior basomedial, and lateral amygdalar nuclei; to the paraventricular and medial mediodorsal thalamic nuclei; to the subthalamic and parasubthalamic nuclei of the hypothalamus; and to the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray. These projections, in part, suggest a role for the BSTju in circuitry integrating autonomic responses with somatomotor activity in adaptive behaviors.
Variations in health insurance coverage for rural and urban nonelderly adult residents of Florida, Indiana, and Kansas.

Context Evidence exists for differences in health insurance coverage among states, but less is known about variations across different kinds of communities within states. Purpose This article assesses the role of residential setting (metropolitan county, rural adjacent, and rural nonadjacent) in health insurance coverage for adult residents, under age 65, using data from large-scale surveys collected in 3 diverse states (Florida, Indiana, and Kansas). Methods Descriptive statistics are provided, and logistic regression models are used to examine the relationship between uninsurance status and residential settings while controlling for personal characteristics. Adjusted uninsurance rates by residential settings are presented for each state. Findings Residential settings are significantly associated with uninsurance status in 2 of the 3 states we examined. We find that adult Floridians of rural adjacent counties are more likely to be uninsured than those in urban counties, but, for Indiana residents, uninsurance status is comparable between urban and rural adjacent residents. Rural nonadjacent Indiana residents are more likely to be uninsured compared to those in urban counties. The insurance status of adult Kansans does not vary across residential settings. Conclusion Residential settings are significantly associated with being uninsured, but the significance of this link between residential locations and uninsurance status varies from state to state.
Glucocorticoids Inhibit Fibronectin Synthesis and Messenger Ribonucleic Acid Levels in Cultured Fetal Rat Parietal Bones

The effects of corticosterone on fibronectin production, bone growth, and morphology were examined in a mineralizing organ culture system derived from 20-day-old fetal rat parietal bones. During 4 days of culture, 1-1000 nM corticosterone had no significant effect on the increase in dry weight or on DNA content, but 100 and 1000 nM corticosterone did inhibit the increase in calcium content. Light microscopic examination of the 4-day cultures demonstrated a glucocorticoid-induced change in osteoblast shape and organization along the mineralizing front of the bone. A dose-dependent inhibition of fibronectin secretion into the medium was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay. In control cultures, fibronectin production was 0.105 ± 0.005 μg/ml-bone at 24 h and 0.397 ± 0.037 μg/ml-bone during the 72- to 96-h interval. The maximal inhibition of fibronectin secretion was 45% at 24 h and 70% at 96 h with 1000 nM corticosterone. Both immunofluorescent visualization of fibronectin staining in the tissue a...
FM spectroscopy: Raman scattering and luminescence

Abstract This paper describes a new method of light scattering spectroscopy which involves modulation of the optical frequency of a cw laser. The experiments are shown to yield accurate Raman data while suppressing sample luminescence and reducing contamination by background laser luminescence. The laser FM technique also shows promise for studying certain properties of luminescing systems.
QUERI and implementation research: emerging from adolescence into adulthood: QUERI Series.

The Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) program and implementation research have both come of age in the 10 years since QUERI was established. Looking forward, if QUERI and the field of implementation science are to mature successfully, we will need to address a series of challenges. First, we need to more clearly demonstrate how applying principles of implementation science leads to more effective implementation and communicate those lessons to our partners and funders. Second, we will need to engage in the ongoing debate over methodological standards in quality improvement and implementation research. Third, a program like QUERI needs to become more relevant to the daily decisions of key stakeholders. Fourth, if we hope to sustain interest in implementation science, we will need to demonstrate the business case for more effective implementation. Fifth, we need to think creatively about how to nurture the next generations of implementation researchers and front-line "connectors," who are critical for accelerating implementation. Finally, we need to strengthen the connections between implementation research and the other operational and research activities that influence change in healthcare systems.
Symptom experience of adult hospitalized medical-surgical patients

The purpose of this study is to describe the symptom experience of adult patients hospitalized in medical/surgical units, to examine the relationship between demographic characteristics and symptom experience, and to explore the relationship between symptom severity and symptom distress. Utilizing the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS), patients (n 334) were asked to convey the presence or absence of each of 31 symptoms, the severity of the symptoms, and the degree to which the symptoms distressed or bothered them. Higher levels of symptom distress were found in women and in those who were unpartnered. The average number of symptoms reported per patient was 9.31 (SD 5.15), with a mean symptom distress rating of 1.8 (SD 0.84) and a mean symptom severity rating of 1.65 (SD 0.83) on a 1-5 scale. The correlation between reports of symptom severity and symptom distress varied greatly by symptom, ranging from r 0.37 to r 0.82. This is the first study to examine the symptom prevalence, severity, and distress of hospitalized medical/surgical patients. The large sample size allowed for the detection of demographic differences in the reporting of symptom distress, and advances the current knowledge in the area. J Pain Symptom Manage 2004;28:451–459. 2004
Survival of the mosquito predator, Notonecta unifasciata (Hemiptera: Notonectidae) embryos at low thermal gradients.

Notonecta unifasciata Guerin eggs maintained at different stages of embryonic development in water at variable temperatures (2.2–25.6 °C) and for periods of 4–12 weeks revealed maximum viability (>80 %) at the highest temperature. However, optimum nondevelopmental viability was at 14.4 °C with eight-day-old embryos (>35 %). Short term (4 weeks) storage at 14.4 °C significantly increased egg viability. Survival was poor (<20 %) at the 2 lowest temperatures. Eggs held at 14.4 °C for 12 weeks and sustainingca. 50 % mortality, may be a practical procedure for biological control.
The development of culturally-sensitive measures for research on ageing

Attempts to import existing measures developed in other countries when constructing research instruments for use with older people can result in several problems including inappropriate wording, unsuitable response sets, and insufficient attention to cultural nuances. This paper addresses such problems by discussing a mixed-methods approach (i.e. both qualitative and quantitative) to measurement development that incorporates input from the older adults for whom the measure is intended. To test this approach, a step-by-step process to the development of a culturally-grounded measure for older Thai people is described. Using focus groups and in-depth interviews, the process begins with an identification of the culturally-meaningful domains of the construct under study. Next, input is gathered from other studies; a preliminary quantitative measure is developed; and the measure is reviewed by a panel of experts. Based on further pre-testing and cognitive interviews with older people, the measure is again modified. Subsequently, the measure is incorporated into a large-scale survey and tested for its psychometric qualities. In addition to providing a template for culturally-sensitive measurement development in gerontology, this paper also highlights issues (e.g. time constraints and trade-offs between cultural specificity as against cultural comparability) that researchers should consider when attempting to develop measures. Suggestions for how to address such issues are provided.
Delayed-onset dystonia associated with corticospinal tract dysfunction†

We report a young man with delayed-onset dystonia secondary to a cerebral infarction. The infarction was caused by an embolic event at the age of 18 months. Delay to onset of dystonia was 16 years and, prior to the onset of dystonia, the patient had profound corticospinal tract dysfunction manifested by a severe hemiparesis. Computed tomography scan revealed infarction of the lentiform nucleus and precentral gyrus. The profound involvement of the corticospinal tract both clinically and radiologically are features not previously described in symptomatic dystonia and contradict the concept that sparing of the corticospinal tract is an essential feature for the onset of acquired dystonia.
Effects of International Trade and Economic Development on Quality of Life

The authors integrate theories from macromarketing, economics, and sociology to develop a conceptual model assessing the effects of international trade and economic development on physical quality of life (PQOL), individual freedom, and the environment (carbon dioxide [CO2] emissions and environmental performance). The study introduces new measures of individual freedom and environmental performance to the macromarketing literature. Research hypotheses are tested on time-lagged data from 104 countries using structural equation modeling. Results suggest that international trade is associated with economic growth that enhances the well-being of people and their ‘‘visible’’ natural environment but with a deleterious impact on global warming through increased CO2 emissions. Increases in PQOL and individual freedom are associated with lower CO2 emissions and improved environmental performance. These findings have important implications for public policy makers, marketing academics, and practitioners.
High time-resolved, 2D imaging of type-I ELMs in DIII-D using a image-intensified CID camera

The evolution of 2D emission profiles of D-alpha and C III during type-I edge localised modes (ELMs) has been investigated in DIII-D using a tangentially viewing gated, intensified charge-injected device (CID) camera. The measured CIII emission profiles indicate transient inner leg attachment with the arrival of the ELM heat pulse. The measured D-alpha emission profiles during an ELM cycle show enhanced deuterium recycling during the deposition of the ELM particle pulse at the target, which suggests the detachment of the divertor plasma from the target plates. Measurements taken in ELMy H-mode discharges at densities of 50% and 90% of the Greenwald density limit are compared utilising the CID camera system and a comprehensive set of other divertor diagnostics. An ELM models based on fluid and PIC simulations are used to discuss the observation on the response of the divertor plasma to the ELM heat and particle pulse.
Liquid chromatographic chiral stationary phases in pharmaceutical analysis: determination of trace amounts of the (-)-enantiomer in (+)-amphetamine.

A rapid and accurate method was developed for the determination of the enantiomeric composition of amphetamine preparations. Amide derivatives of the amphetamine enantiomers are first formed by using achiral 2-naphthoyl chloride. The resulting enantiomeric amides are then chromatographed on a commercially available chiral stationary phase. The capacity factors (k′) of (minus;)- and (+)-2-naphthoylamphetamine are 20 and 22, respectively, and the separation factor (α) for the two enantiomers is 1.08. The method allows detection of as little as 0.5% of the (minus;)-enantiomer in (+)-amphetamine and is applicable to both bulk drug and single-tablet analyses.
Is (ge − 2) apparatus-dependent?

Abstract We show that the modification of the photon propagator in the presence of the conducting walls of an apparatus leads to a new contribution Δg e to the magnetic moment g e of the electron. This change is of order Δg e ∼ α log (2 Λa )/ ma , where a is the characteristic size of the apparatus, and Λ is the frequency above which the apparatus becomes transparent to photons. Numerically Δg e is comparable to other contributions which arise in order (α/π) 4 , which is the current level of sensitivity of theory and experiment.
A simplified method for the preparation of pure UDP[14C]glucose

Abstract A two-step enzymatic synthesis of UDP[14C]glucose was described which resulted in high yield. Separation of product from labelled intermediates and other contaminants was achieved by a simple ion exchange chromatography method.
Endoscopic Polarized Scanning Spectroscopic Imaging of Barrett’s Esophagus in vivo

Endoscopic polarized scanning spectroscopic imaging provides real time information about morphology of epithelial tissue in gastrointestinal tract. This technique could lead to in vivo detection of invisible dysplasia in Barrett’s esophagus.