cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parameter counting in models with global symmetries

We present rules for determining the number of physical parameters in models with exact flavor symmetries. In such models the total number of parameters (physical and unphysical) needed to described a matrix is less than in a model without the symmetries. Several toy examples are studied in order to demonstrate the rules. The use of global symmetries in studying the minimally supersymmetric standard model (MSSM) is examined.
Association and Familial Segregation of CTG18.1 Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion of TCF4 Gene in Fuchs' Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy

Purpose We tested the association between two intronic polymorphisms (CTG18.1 and rs613872) in TCF4 and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), and analyzed their segregation patterns in families. Methods We recruited 120 unrelated Caucasian subjects with FECD and 100 controls. Available family members of probands were recruited. Genotyping of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs613872 was performed using Sanger sequencing or real-time allelic discrimination assay. The trinucleotide repeat polymorphism, CTG18.1, was genotyped using a combination of short tandem repeat assay and triplet repeat primed PCR assay. The cytosine-thymine-guanine (CTG) repeat length of ≥40 was classified as an expanded CTG18.1 allele. Association of the two loci with FECD was evaluated. Segregation in 29 families was examined. Results The two polymorphisms are in linkage disequilibrium (r(2) = 0.65 in cases and 0.31 in controls). Significant associations were found between FECD and rs613872 (P = 3.1 × 10(-17)), expanded CTG18.1 allele (P = 6.5 × 10(-25)), and their haplotypes (P = 5.9 × 10(-19)). The odds ratio (OR) of each copy of the rs613872 G allele for FECD was estimated to be 9.5 (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.1-17.5). The OR of each copy of the CTG18.1 expanded allele was estimated to be 32.3 (95% CI, 13.4-77.6). The expanded CTG 18.1 allele cosegregated with the trait in 52% (15/29) of families with complete penetrance and 10% (3/29) with incomplete penetrance. Conclusions We report, to our knowledge, the first independent replication of the expanded CTG 18.1 allele conferring significant risk for FECD (>30-fold increase). The expanded allele cosegregates with the trait with complete penetrance in a majority of families, but we also document cases of incomplete penetrance.
Brief report: Eye-movement patterns during an Embedded Figures Test in children with ASD.

The present study examined fixation frequency and duration during an Embedded Figures Test (EFT) in an effort to better understand the attentional and perceptual processes by which individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) achieve accelerated EFT performance. In particular, we aimed to elucidate differences in the patterns of eye-movement in ASD and typically developing (TD) children, thus providing evidence relevant to the competing theories of weak central coherence (WCC) and enhanced perceptual functioning. Consistent with prior EFT studies, we found accelerated response time (RT) in children with ASD. No group differences were seen for fixation frequency, but the ASD group made significantly shorter fixations compared to the TD group. Eye-movement results indicate that RT advantage in ASD is related to both WCC and enhanced perceptual functioning.
DOES THE INTERICTAL EEG HAVE A ROLE IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF EPILEPSY

Lorsque l'epilepsie est une possibilite raisonnable, l'EEG de routine dans l'intervalle entre les crises peut etre un outil de diagnostic tres utile, et la malade pourra eviter d'autres explorations couteuses et longues
Next-generation sequencing-based multi-gene mutation profiling of solid tumors using fine needle aspiration samples: promises and challenges for routine clinical diagnostics

Increasing use of fine needle aspiration for oncological diagnosis, while minimally invasive, poses a challenge for molecular testing by traditional sequencing platforms due to high sample requirements. The advent of affordable benchtop next-generation sequencing platforms such as the semiconductor-based Ion Personal Genome Machine (PGM) Sequencer has facilitated multi-gene mutational profiling using only nanograms of DNA. We describe successful next-generation sequencing-based testing of fine needle aspiration cytological specimens in a clinical laboratory setting. We selected 61 tumor specimens, obtained by fine needle aspiration, with known mutational status for clinically relevant genes; of these, 31 specimens yielded sufficient DNA for next-generation sequencing testing. Ten nanograms of DNA from each sample was tested for mutations in the hotspot regions of 46 cancer-related genes using a 318-chip on Ion PGM Sequencer. All tested samples underwent successful targeted sequencing of 46 genes. We showed 100% concordance of results between next-generation sequencing and conventional test platforms for all previously known point mutations that included BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, MET, NRAS, PIK3CA, RET and TP53, deletions of EGFR and wild-type calls. Furthermore, next-generation sequencing detected variants in 19 of the 31 (61%) patient samples that were not detected by traditional platforms, thus increasing the utility of mutation analysis; these variants involved the APC, ATM, CDKN2A, CTNNB1, FGFR2, FLT3, KDR, KIT, KRAS, MLH1, NRAS, PIK3CA, SMAD4, STK11 and TP53 genes. The results of this study show that next-generation sequencing-based mutational profiling can be performed on fine needle aspiration cytological smears and cell blocks. Next-generation sequencing can be performed with only nanograms of DNA and has better sensitivity than traditional sequencing platforms. Use of next-generation sequencing also enhances the power of fine needle aspiration by providing gene mutation results that can direct personalized cancer therapy.
THE GROOMING BEHAVIOR OF THE TERRESTRIAL AMPHIPOD TALITROIDES ALLUAUDI

ABSTRACT Talitroides alluaudi (Talitroidea: Talitridae) exhibits a complex repertoire of grooming movements. The mouthparts and both pairs of gnathopods are the primary grooming effectors, with more grooming effort devoted to the appendages than to the general body surfaces. The grooming behavior of T. alluaudi is similar to that of semiterrestrial and aquatic talitroideans. Amphipod grooming is relatively specialized in comparison to many crustaceans. The possible secondary role of grooming as a displacement behavior is also discussed.
A Step-Sector for the Astigmatic Spectrograph

A step sector is described which can be used with astigmatic spectrographs to give results in every way as good as those obtained with conventional sectors and stigmatic instruments. In its action it may be described as a cross between a focal plane shutter and a band saw, as it consists of a continuous band of opaque film with a succession of stepped openings cut from its center. This film is passed at high speed in front of the focal curve next to the sensitive emulsion, then around a return path which is not in the optical path of the instrument. Added versatility is achieved by the inclusion of adjustable vertical and horizontal masks.
Melon aphid performance on chrysanthemum as mediated by cultivar, and differential levels of fertilization and irrigation

Population parameters of the melon aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover, were compared for insects grown on six cultivars of chrysanthemum, Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev ('Fontana', 'Iridon', Pink Lady', 'Splendor', 'White Diamond', and 'White View Time') fertilized with 3 different levels of nitrogen (80, 160 and 240 mg N/l) and 2 levels of irrigation (high 300 ml and low 210 ml every other day). Fecundity, longevity, and survivorship of aphids were significantly affected by the cultivar treatment, but were not affected by irrigation or fertilizer treatments or by any combination of interactions among cultivar, fertilizer and irrigation. Significantly fewer aphids survived on the cultivar 'Pink Lady' (populations reduced by 20.8%) than any other cultivar examined. Intrinsic rates of increase (r m ), finite rates of increase (R 0 ), and population doubling times (DT) for aphids were different among fertilizer levels and cultivars, but were not different among irrigation levels. There were no significant fertilizer by irrigation interaction effects upon r m , R 0 , or DT. The highest rate of fertilizer applied (240 mg N/liter) adversely affected the intrinsic rate of increase of melon aphids; however, aphid intrinsic rate of increase was weakly correlated with foliar soluble protein levels (r = 0.989, P= 0.0954). Foliar soluble protein levels were not associated with fertilization treatment. Melon aphids perform consistently better on the cultivars 'White Diamond', 'Fontana', and 'Splendor', relative to those aphids growing on 'Iridon', 'Pink Lady', or 'White View Time'. In general, melon aphids performed best on 'White Diamond' and poorest on 'Pink Lady'.
Effects of Physical Training on Stuttering

Eight college students enrolled in group therapy for stuttering were divided into two equal groups for 20 weeks. The training group supplemented therapy with endurance running and calisthenics thre...
Tools for designing conceptual schemata of databases

Abstract CSDL, a language for designing conceptual schemata, is described. The language provides tools to ease the translation of knowledge about data into a formal conceptual schema.
Alpha-particle transfer in the reaction 40Ca(12C, 8Be)44Ti

Abstract Four-particle transfer leading to the ground state and first excited state of 44 Ti has been studied with the 40 Ca( 12 C, 8 Be) 44 Ti reaction. Angular distributions are compared to exact finite-range DWBA calculations and the basis for a direct α-particle transfer assumption is discussed.
Conservation and management of transboundary fish stocks: Comments in light of the adoption of the 1995 agreement for the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks

The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea has not properly settled the question of conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stocks in areas beyond zones under national jurisdiction, despite the recognition of the interdependence of these stocks with those located within exclusive economic zones. As a consequence, unregulated fishing under the open access regime of the high seas has caused overfishing of these living resources and has led, in recent years, to tensions between coastal states and high seas fishing states. In 1992, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development requested that the United Nations convene a conference aimed at implementing the relevant provisions of the Convention and with a view to establishing a conservation and management regime for the two types of stocks concerned. In August 1995, the conference adopted an agreement for the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly migratory fish stoc...
Antibacterial Activity of Mare Uterine Fluid

Luminal fluid from the mare uterus was used to investigate its relation to antibacterial defenses. Uterine flushings were collected at Day 3 of estrus, Day 8 postovulation and Day 15 postovulation. Uterine proteins were concentrated by ultrafiltration, dialyzed and examined for chemotactic activity to neutrophils and for antibacterial properties. Serum taken at the time of flushing was dialyzed and studied in a similar manner. Neutrophil migration in response to serum from Day 3 estrus and Day 8 postovulation was increased (P less than 0.05) above controls. Uterine protein from Day 8 postovulation and from Day 3 of estrus also stimulated neutrophil migration (P less than 0.05) above values of controls. Antibacterial activity was measured by incubation of S. zooepidemicus with concentrated uterine flushing or serum. Serum from all three estrous cycle intervals diluted 1:10 or used at a protein concentration equal to the protein concentration of uterine fluid did not inhibit growth. After 4 h of incubation, bacterial growth in estrous serum was significantly greater (P less than 0.01) than serum taken at Day 8 and Day 15 postovulation. Uterine flushings from Day 8 postovulation significantly decreased bacterial colony-forming units (P less than 0.01). Heating flushings at 56 degrees C for 30 min did not abolish the antimicrobial activity, while heating flushings for 30 min at 80 degrees C removed this activity. The antibacterial activity does not appear to be due to agglutinating antibody.
Simulation of host-parasite-landscape interactions: influence of season and habitat on cattle fever tick (Boophilus sp.) population dynamics

Integration of temporal and spatial factors controlling host-landscape interactions is essential to development of systems perspectives important to the management of animal parasites. A simulation model based upon factors regulating distribution and population dynamics of cattle fever ticks, Boophilus annulatus and B. microplus, on rangelands of the Northeastern Mexico-United States border region was found to reasonably represent interactions of season and habitat type. Three submodels represent tick development on cattle, tick development in the environment, and cow movement among three different habitat types. Simulated populations in grass tended to be smaller but with more abrupt peaks than those in mesquite and mixed-brush canopied habitats. Three generations were produced in grass from infestations beginning in January. Generations were less well marked in mesquite and mixed-brush due to the comparatively extended survivorship of larvae in these habitats. Sensitivity analysis of host-larvae encounter rate showed the model to be highly sensitive to this variable when all other factors are constant and demonstrated that utilization of a landscape by host animals is a powerful determinant in Boophilus population dynamics.
Effective-medium theory of a filamentous triangular lattice.

We present an effective-medium theory that includes bending as well as stretching forces, and we use it to calculate the mechanical response of a diluted filamentous triangular lattice. In this lattice, bonds are central-force springs, and there are bending forces between neighboring bonds on the same filament. We investigate the diluted lattice in which each bond is present with a probability $p$. We find a rigidity threshold ${p}_{\mathrm{b}}$ which has the same value for all positive bending rigidity and a crossover characterizing bending, stretching, and bend-stretch coupled elastic regimes controlled by the central-force rigidity percolation point at ${p}_{\mathrm{CF}}\ensuremath{\simeq}2/3$ of the lattice when fiber bending rigidity vanishes.
The antimicrobial properties of chile peppers (Capsicum species) and their uses in Mayan medicine

A survey of the Mayan pharmacopoeia revealed that tissues of Capsicum species (Solanaceae) are included in a number of herbal remedies for a variety of ailments of probable microbial origin. Using a filter disk assay, plain and heated aqueous extracts from fresh Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum chinense, Capsicum frutescens, and Capsicum pubescens varieties were tested for their antimicrobial effects with fifteen bacterial species and one yeast species. Two pungent compounds found in Capsicum species (capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin) were also tested for their antimicrobial effects. The plain and heated extracts were found to exhibit varying degrees of inhibition against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium sporogenes, Clostridium tetani, and Streptococcus pyogenes.
A Kirkpatrick-Baez microscope for the National Ignition Facility

Current pinhole x ray imaging at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) is limited in resolution and signal throughput to the detector for Inertial Confinement Fusion applications, due to the viable range of pinhole sizes (10–25 μm) that can be deployed. A higher resolution and throughput diagnostic is in development using a Kirkpatrick-Baez microscope system (KBM). The system will achieve <9 μm resolution over a 300 μm field of view with a multilayer coating operating at 10.2 keV. Presented here are the first images from the uncoated NIF KBM configuration demonstrating high resolution has been achieved across the full 300 μm field of view.
Sexual Victimization, Health Status, and VA Healthcare Utilization Among Lesbian and Bisexual OEF/OIF Veterans

Background Many lesbian and bisexual (LB) women veterans may have been targets of victimization in the military based on their gender and presumed sexual orientation, and yet little is known regarding the health or mental health of LB veterans, nor the degree to which they feel comfortable receiving care in the VA.
Considerations for the prediction of survival time in pancreatic cancer based on registry data

Semi-parametric and parametric survival models in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) using data from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) registry were developed to identify relevant covariates affecting survival, verify against external patient data and predict disease outcome. Data from 82,251 patients was extracted using site and histology codes for PC in the SEER database and refined based on specific cause of death. Predictors affecting survival were selected from SEER database; the analysis dataset included 2,437 patients. Survival models were developed using both semi-parametric and parametric approaches, evaluated using Cox–Snell and deviance residuals, and predictions were assessed using an external dataset from Saint Louis University (SLU). Prediction error curves (PECs) were used to evaluate prediction performance of these models compared to Kaplan–Meier response. Median overall survival time of patients from SEER data was 5 months. Our analysis shows that the PC data from SEER was best fitted by both semi-parametric and the parametric model with log-logistic distribution. Predictors that influence survival included disease stage, grade, histology, tumor size, radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and lymph node status. Survival time predictions from the SLU dataset were comparable and PECs show that both semi-parametric and parametric models exhibit similar predictive performance. PC survival models constructed from registry data can provide a means to classify patients into risk-based subgroups, to predict disease outcome and aide in the design of future prospective randomized trials. These models can evolve to incorporate predictive biomarker and pharmacogenetic correlates once adequate causal data is established.
Collective Life as the Ground of Implicit Religion: The Case of American Converts to Russian Orthodoxy

Le besoin de sacre gagne differentes formes d'expression explicite. Etudiant un groupe de convertis a la religion orthodoxe aux Etats-Unis, l'A. montre l'effet de la vie collective sur la creation et le maintien d'un systeme de croyances qui agit sur la religion implicite de ses membres. Leurs recits montrent que le produit d'une experience collective (la conscience collective du groupe) devient plus important que celui de ses composantes (les individus) : ceci est le moyen pour les individus de retrouver un grand recit impliquant le sacre dans les temps postmodernes
Regulated expression of neuronal SIRT1 and related genes by aging and neuronal β2-containing nicotinic cholinergic receptors

Longevity genes attenuate the aging process, but their expression in the brain during aging remains unknown. Loss of the majority of heteromeric brain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) results in premature brain aging, and altered regulation of longevity genes could be involved. Using in situ hybridization, the expression of SIRT1, Ku70, Nampt, p53, forkhead Box O3 (FoxO3), and mitochondria uncoupling protein 5 (UCP5) was determined in neocortex and hippocampus of young adult 3-month and middle-aged 18-month-old wild-type (WT), and age-matched mice lacking β2* heteromeric nAChRs (β2-/-). Age-related structural changes were detected in WT mice. In particular, cortical thickness was decreased but neuronal density increased, and hippocampal volume increased with age. In contrast, young β2-/- mice exhibited increased cortical neuronal density, and with age, cortical thickness decreased more dramatically, and hippocampal volume did not increase. Thus, young β2-/- mice exhibited cortical signs of aging, and aging was accelerated at 18 months. The longevity genes probed exhibited similar expression patterns in frontal brain structures, with strong expression in hippocampus, medial habenula (MHb), and cortex. In WT mice, age significantly decreased expression of all genes except SIRT1 in cortical structures, and a similar pattern was detected in the MHb. Genotype had no effect on expression in young adults in either cortex or MHb, but increased mRNA expression of SIRT1, Nampt, and Ku70 was detected in cortex, hippocampus, and MHb of aged β2-/- mice compared with WT mice. This is the first study to determine age-related expression of survival genes in forebrain areas. Although, structural changes indicative of accelerated aging are evident in young β2-/- mice, the data suggest that nAChRs do not directly regulate expression of survival genes. However, loss of β2* nAChRs could result in augmented cellular stress, which indirectly increases expression of SIRT1, Nampt, and Ku70 as an adaptive response to provide protection against neurodegeneration.
Half-Baked — The Retail Promotion of Marijuana Edibles

In states where marijuana has been legalized, new edible marijuana products raise public health concerns, including a risk of consumption by children. States have only partially addressed these risks, which are likely to be amplified as other states follow their lead.
Links between early Holocene ice-sheet decay, sea-level rise and abrupt climate change

The beginning of the Holocene interglacial was marked by ice-sheet melting and sea-level rise. A review of sea level and climate records identifies two sea-level jumps associated with the final drainage of glacial Lake Agassiz, and links them to an abrupt cooling event.
A Note on Exponential Decay Properties of Ground States for Quasilinear Elliptic Equations

We give an explicit formula for exponential decay properties of ground states for a class of quasilinear elliptic equations in the whole space R N .
TRANSIENT THERMAL STRESSES AROUND AN ELLIPTICAL HOLE

An experimental solution is presented to the quasistatic problem of transient thermal stresses around an elliptical hole in a plate. Photothermoelasticity by means of heating is used as the experimental technique, and empirical equations are obtained for maximum stress due to a step temperature change at the edge of the plate.
Influence of polymer–metal interface on the photovoltaic properties and long-term stability of nc-TiO2-P3HT hybrid solar cells

The role played by the interface between light harvesting polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and thermally evaporated metal electrodes such as Au, Ag, and Cu on the photovoltaic performance and stability of nc-TiO2-P3HT (nc refers to nanocrystalline) ordered heterojunction hybrid solar cells has been systematically investigated. These hybrid solar cells with Cu films as positive electrode have been fabricated for the first time, and they exhibit improved open circuit voltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF) compared to those fabricated with Au and Ag electrodes. More importantly, the Cu-based cells show better stability during continuous operation and ageing in an inert atmosphere. The improved photovoltaic performance and stability of the cells fabricated with the Cu electrodes are attributed to the chemical bonding between Cu and the S atoms of P3HT to give copper–sulfur complex or copper sulfide like species as indicated by the photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) data. The improvement in stability exhibited by the cells with Cu electrode is interesting in light of the fact that hybrid solar cells based on semiconductor oxides like TiO2 quickly decay in the absence of oxygen.
Recurrent selection for maysin, a compound in maize silks, antibiotic to earworm

A thorough knowledge of the inheritance of maysin, a flavone glycoside with antibiosis to corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea Boddie, in the silks of maize will assist breeders in choosing the most efficient method of incorporating this trait into elite inbreds. Two breeding populations, one having exotic origin (EPM), the other from southern inbred lines (SIM) were subjected to six cycles of recurrent selection for increased silk maysin. Ten per cent of the individuals evaluated in populations were selected for recombination as S 1 progenies in each cycle. Progress was evaluated as C0 to C6 population cycles in a randomized complete-block experiment with five replications in 1997 and 1998. Maysin fresh weights in silks of the C0 populations were 0.54% for EPM and 0.36% for SIM. Responses of 0.19% per cycle in EPM and 0.22% per cycle in SIM resulted in an EPM (C6) population with 1.76% maysin and an SIM (C6) population with 1.69% maysin. Silk maysin concentrations above 0.2% begin to substantially reduce larval growth and prevent completion of the life cycle when husk coverage is sufficient to force the insect to feed on silks while entering the ear. Chlorogenic acid and two analogues of maysin, apimaysin and 3'-methoxymaysin, were found in such minor quantities in silks that they could not be credited with any impact on antibiotic activity against the insect. Selection has effectively increased silk maysin concentration in both EPM and SIM. Trait responses for maysin are highly heritable and will allow the plant breeder to introgress resistance to the corn earworm into elite material easily.
Physical exercise as an evolutionary force

Physical exercise is an integral part of the history of our species. It is proposed that our ability to run long distances in the heat was a selective advantage which allowed our ancestors with otherwise modest physical endowments to endure. Further, it is proposed that the concomitant physiological adaptation to high levels of physical activity facilitated the development of our enlarged brain and enabled our geographic dispersion into diverse environments. Failure to recognize the significance of this active heritage poses a threat to the continued well-being of the species.
Workplace Social Exchange: Substitutes and Neutralizers of LMX in Team Contexts

The purpose of this study is to develop an integrated theoretical model of the simultaneous interplay of social exchange relationships with a supervisor (leader-member exchange: LMX) and fellow tea...
Assessment of climatic suitability for the expansion of Solenopsis invicta Buren in Oklahoma using three general circulation models

This study assessed the climatic suitability for the expansion of Solenopsis invicta Buren (red imported fire ant) in Oklahoma under the present climate and with a doubling of atmospheric CO2 using three general circulation models (GCMs) (GFDL R30, OSU, UKMO). Oklahoma was chosen as the geographical focus because it has a dense network of meteorological stations and lies on the edge of the current biogeographic range of S. invicta. Meteorological data were spatially referenced with model data in GIS to produce a series of images of selected suitability indicators: (1) mean annual precipitation >510 mm; (2) less than seven consecutive days with mean air temperature 9.4 C. These indicator images were combined to produce suitability maps for the potential range of S. invicta. Under current climatic conditions, roughly three-quarters of Oklahoma is suitable for potential invasion by S. invicta. The GFDL R30, OSU, and UKMO show that the area suitable for colonization increases by approximately 26, 26, and 36%, respectively. In terms of actual land area, the increase with a warmer, wetter climate ranges from 35,300 km2 to 47,600 km2. The destructiveness of S. invicta on human livelihood necessitates a better understanding of the future expansion of the species for an uncertain future climate.
The jagged line between mediation and couples therapy

Mediation of conflict in couples has emerged as a hybrid discipline blending theory and practice from psychology, law and other disciplines. In attempting to orchestrate a successful negotiation, mediators engage the couple in problem solving over concrete issues and workable alternatives. While the healing aspirations of couples therapists transcend the narrower focus of mediation, clinical practice is enriched and informed by facilitating a negotiation that provides valuable data in an economic manner and a rich context for therapeutic intervention.
Asymptotic equivalence of estimators of average derivatives

Abstract This paper establishes the asymptotic equivalence among four semiparametric sample analog estimators of average derivatives of a regression function and their corresponding slope or ratio-of-moments estimators.
Student perceptions of the effectiveness of Web‐based distance education

Web‐based distance education is rapidly vying to become one of the preferred norms for teaching in many library and information science programs, especially in the USA. Within the distance education paradigm, courses taught utilizing the Web may be classified as either totally asynchronous, or synchronous when there are provisions, to a greater or lesser degree, for “real‐time” interaction, such as by means of Internet chat or a limited number of face‐to‐face classes. The results of this study show that, although library and information science students in Web‐based distance education course environments remain generally satisfied with the quality of the instruction and education that they are receiving through courses with significant Web‐based content, it is nevertheless clear that they have generally come to perceive that the quality of their educational experience is significantly improved when there is included within or as an integral part of the course offering some meaningful level of real‐time in...
Evaluation of video-printer images as secondary CT images for clinical use.

Video-printer (VP) images of 24 abnormal views from a body CT scanner were made. Although the physical quality of printer images was poor, a group of radiologists and clinicians found that VP images are adequate to confirm the lesion described in the radiology report. The VP images can be used as secondary images, and they can be attached to a report as a part of the radiology service to increase communication between radiologists and clinicians and to prevent the loss of primary images from the radiology file.
Ferroelectric fatigue of Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 thin films measured in atmospheres of varying oxygen concentration

Ferroelectric fatigue in Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 films was found to be remarkably sensitive to the oxygen partial pressure of the atmosphere above the film during measurement. Films with Zr/Ti ratios of 55/45 and 75/25 were subjected to ferroelectric fatigue testing at room temperature in atmospheres of various oxygen partial pressure, or pO2. The number of switching cycles at which the onset of fatigue occurred was found to be sharply peaked with respect to the oxygen partial pressure surrounding the sample. Such a striking dependence on the oxygen concentration strongly supports current theories for fatigue that involve oxygen vacancy migration.
Revisiting retinoblastoma protein phosphorylation during the mammalian cell cycle

It is widely accepted that phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma (Rb) protein during the G1 phase of the mammalian division cycle is a major control element regulating passage of cells into S phase and through the division cycle. The experiments supporting G1-phase-specific Rb phosphorylation and the historical development of this idea are reviewed. By making a rigorous distinction between 'growth cessation' and the phenomena of 'cell cycle exit' or 'G1-phase arrest', the evidence for the G1-phase-specific phosphorylation of Rb protein is reinterpreted. We show that the evidence for G1-phase phosphorylation of Rb rests on few experiments and a chain of reasoning with some weak links. Evidence is reviewed that growth conditions regulate the phosphorylation of Rb. A growth-regulated control system that is independent of the cell cycle explains much of the evidence adduced to support cycle-specific phosphorylation of Rb. We propose that additional experimental evidence is needed to decide whether there is a G1-phase-specific phosphorylation of Rb protein.
High-density mesoscopic atom clouds in a holographic atom trap

We demonstrate the production of micron-sized high-density atom clouds of interest for mesoscopic quantum information processing. We evaporate atoms from 60 {mu}K, 3x10{sup 14} atoms/cm{sup 3} samples contained in a highly anisotropic optical lattice formed by interfering diffracted beams from a holographic phase plate. After evaporating to 1 {mu}K by lowering the confining potential, in less than a second the atom density reduces to 8x10{sup 13} cm{sup -3} at a phase space density approaching unity. Adiabatic recompression of the atoms then increases the density to levels in excess of 1x10{sup 15} cm{sup -3}. The resulting clouds are typically 8 {mu}m in the longest dimension. Such samples are small enough to enable mesoscopic quantum manipulation using the Rydberg blockade and have the high densities required to investigate collision phenomena.
Efficacy of contemporary chemotherapy in stage IIIC endometrial cancer: A histologic dichotomy

Background Treatment failures in stage IIIC endometrial carcinoma (EC) are predominantly due to occult extrapelvic metastases (EPM). The impact of chemotherapy on occult EPM was investigated according to grade (G), G1/2EC vs G3EC.
Simultaneous determination of analyte concentrations, gas-phase basicities, and proton transfer kinetics using gas chromatography/Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (GC/FT-ICR MS)

Abstract Details on using analyte gas-phase basicity (GB) or proton affinity (PA) as an additional analysis dimension in GC/FT-ICR MS are reported. Ion–molecule reactions of chemical ionization (CI) reagent ions with the GC separated C1, C2, and C3 aromatic neutral (viz., toluene, m-xylene, and mesitylene) and ketone (acetone, 3-pentanone, and 4-heptanone) molecules were monitored. A suite of CI reagent ions was generated by self-chemical ionization (SCI) of ethanol in an ICR cell. Multiplexed reactant ion monitoring (MRIM) of the CI reagent ions (RiH+) was used for GB bracketing of the neutral analytes eluting from the GC column. The PAs of the conjugate bases (Ri) of the reagent/reactant ions spanned a wide range (∼170 to ∼200 kcal mol−1). A kinetic model was constructed to relate the degree of reactant ion depletion to analyte concentration and proton transfer reaction efficiency. Our experimental GB estimations, based on the thermokinetic data, were in broad agreement with the GB values reported in the NIST database and primary sources (experimental and ab initio). Experimentally measured MRIM chromatogram profiles and kinetic analysis were used to estimate analyte gas-phase pressures in the ICR cell and losses to the surfaces in the ICR vacuum chamber. The MRIM approach permits GB determinations of multiple analytes in a single GC run and provides an additional dimension to improve analytical resolution in GC/FT-ICR MS.
Comparison shopping: purchasing continuations as standing orders or on approval

When purchasing continuations from book vendors, libraries have essentially two options: a) establish standing orders, or b) receive on approval plans. Both options offer advantages and disadvantages. Librarians need to explore both options fully to decide which is best for their needs before purchasing continuations. This article explores the two options for acquiring continuations and explains both the advantages and disadvantages for each option so that librarians can make informed decisions. While all book vendors can offer these two purchasing options to libraries, this article specifically addresses purchasing continuations from Yankee Book Peedler, Inc.
MP1: A MEK Binding Partner That Enhances Enzymatic Activation of the MAP Kinase Cascade

Signal transduction is controlled both by regulation of enzyme activation and by organization of enzymatic complexes with nonenzymatic adapters, scaffolds, and anchor proteins. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade is one of several evolutionarily conserved mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascades important in the regulation of growth, apoptosis, and differentiation. A two-hybrid screen was conducted to identify nonenzymatic components of this signaling cascade that might be important in regulating its activity. A protein called MP1 (MEK Partner 1) was identified that bound specifically to MEK1 and ERK1 and facilitated their activation. When overexpressed in cultured cells, MP1 enhanced activation of ERK1 and activation of a reporter driven by the transcription factor Elk-1. Expression of MP1 in cells increased binding of ERK1 to MEK1. MP1 apparently functions as an adapter to enhance the efficiency of the MAP kinase cascade.
Evidence for the local action of intranasal dexamethasone aerosols in the suppression of hay fever symptoms.

Abstract Nasally administered dexamethasone aerosols have been shown to suppress hay fever symptoms in about 75 per cent of patients with ragweed hay fever. To determine whether symptomatic improvement is due to the local action of the steroid in the nose, or is due to systemic absorption, seasonal symptoms were compared in ragweed patients who received either the nasal aerosol or an oral dose of steroid with equivalent metabolic effect. Control of symptoms in patients receiving the nasal steroid was again excellent, but control of symptoms in patients receiving orally the metabolic equivalent of dexamethasone was no better than in patients receiving placebos. The effect of the nasal steroid spray appears to depend, therefore, upon local application in the nose.
On the growth of variances in a central limit theorem for strongly mixing sequences

In a central limit theorem under certain strong mixing conditions, one does not quite have an asymptotic linear growth of the variance of the partial sums.
Protein Diffusion in the Periplasm of E. coli under Osmotic Stress

The physical and mechanical properties of the cell envelope of Escherichia coli are poorly understood. We use fluorescence recovery after photobleaching to measure diffusion of periplasmic green fluorescent protein and probe the fluidity of the periplasm as a function of external osmotic conditions. For cells adapted to growth in complete medium at 0.14-1.02 Osm, the mean diffusion coefficient increases from 3.4 μm² s⁻¹ to 6.6 μm² s⁻¹ and the distribution of D(peri) broadens as growth osmolality increases. This is consistent with a net gain of water by the periplasm, decreasing its biopolymer volume fraction. This supports a model in which the turgor pressure drops primarily across the thin peptidoglycan layer while the cell actively maintains osmotic balance between periplasm and cytoplasm, thus avoiding a substantial pressure differential across the cytoplasmic membrane. After sudden hyperosmotic shock (plasmolysis), the cytoplasm loses water as the periplasm gains water. Accordingly, increases threefold. The fluorescence recovery after photobleaching is complete and homogeneous in all cases, but in minimal medium, the periplasm is evidently thicker at the cell tips. For the relevant geometries, Brownian dynamics simulations in model cytoplasmic and periplasmic volumes provide analytical formulae for extraction of accurate diffusion coefficients from readily measurable quantities.
Inferring missing relevance judgments from crowd workers via probabilistic matrix factorization

In crowdsourced relevance judging, each crowd worker typically judges only a small number of examples, yielding a sparse and imbalanced set of judgments in which relatively few workers influence output consensus labels, particularly with simple consensus methods like majority voting. We show how probabilistic matrix factorization, a standard approach in collaborative filtering, can be used to infer missing worker judgments such that all workers influence output labels. Given complete worker judgments inferred by PMF, we evaluate impact in unsupervised and supervised scenarios. In the supervised case, we consider both weighted voting and worker selection strategies based on worker accuracy. Experiments on crowd judgments from the 2010 TREC Relevance Feedback Track show promise of the PMF approach merits further investigation and analysis.
Barriers and benefits of quality management in the construction industry: An empirical study

In this paper we discuss the problems of defining quality in the construction industry, examine possible benefits of implementing quality, and look at barriers to quality implementation in construction. We use data collected during interviews with contractors and data from questionnaire surveys. Results show that contractors do understand the potential benefits of quality implementation but that there are also many barriers to implementation. We describe recent developments that might help to overcome the barriers. However, the different actors in construction need to understand that change is a slow and often painful process and that much effort is required to implement quality in construction industry.
An Improved Harmonic Current Detection Method Based on Variable Forgetting Factor RLS Algorithm

The effects of compensating and restraining the power system harmonics using active power filter are determined by the detection precision and its dynamic response characters. To improve both of them, a harmonic current detection algorithm based on variable forgetting factor Recursive Least-Squares algorithm is presented. The occurrence of the dynamic process is identified firstly by the judgment condition which is given by the algorithm, and then the forgetting factor is assigned dynamically, so that the convergent speed is significantly improved. The algorithm overcomes the impact of low-pass filter of traditional p-q or ip-iq algorithm, and releases the contradiction cased by the conflicting requirements of forgetting factor value between steady process and dynamic process. So it has better dynamic performance. Simulation and experiments prove the validity and feasibility of the approaches.
A New Species of Polymnia (Asteraceae: Tribe Polymnieae) from Tennessee

Abstract Polymnia johnbeckii , a new, narrowly endemic species, is distinct in its combination of highly dissected leaves, hirsute herbage, and relatively large, showy heads. It is known from two populations in Marion County, Tennessee, and should be considered a rare species at both the state and federal level. A chromosome count indicates that P. johnbeckii is diploid. Although standard cladogenesis is the null hypothesis for the origin of this diploid species, evidence supporting an alternative scenario of homoploid hybrid speciation is discussed.
Writing off marginality, minoring, and effacement

Abstract This paper explores questions of marginality and canonicity as they relate to African women writers. It argues that one can look at African women writers using notions of marginality, minoring, and effacement in order to locate these writers' positions in the context of a variety of literary traditions. One has to move beyond these traditions, however, to view the specificity of African women's writing by examining how these works decenter, oppose, and transform hierarchical or silencing arrangements.
Structure and magnetic properties of nanoparticles of barium ferrite synthesized using microemulsion processing

Abstract Nanoparticles of barium ferrite (BaFe 12 O 19 ) were synthesized using a novel method called microemulsion processing. In this process, the aqueous cores (typically 5–25 nm in size) of water—cetyltrimethylammonium bromide— n -butanol—octane microemulsions were used as constrained microreactors for the co-precipitation of precursor carbonates (typically 5–15 nm in size). The carbonates thus formed were separated, dried and calcined to form nanoparticles (less than 100 nm) of barium ferrite. The particle size and size distribution were determined by transmission electron microscopy. Phase analysis of the final product by X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of hexagonal barium ferrite. The powder was further characterized by the measurement of magnetic properties such as coercive field H c , saturation magnetization M s , remanent magnetization M r and loop squareness S r .
Nitric Oxide Stimulates Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-2 Expression in Sepsis

NO is a crucial mediator of the inflammatory response, but its in vivo role as a determinant of lung inflammation remains unclear. We addressed the in vivo role of NO in regulating the activation of NF-κB and expression of inflammatory proteins using an in vivo mouse model of sepsis induced by i.p. injection of Escherichia coli . We observed time-dependent degradation of IκB and activation of NF-κB accompanied by increases in inducible NOS, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), and ICAM-1 expression after E. coli challenge, which paralleled the ability of lung tissue to produce high-output NO. To determine the role of NO in this process, mice were pretreated with the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG -methyl-l-arginine. Despite having relatively modest effects on NF-κB activation and ICAM-1 or inducible NOS expression, the NOS inhibitor almost completely inhibited expression of MIP-2 in response to E. coli challenge. These responses were associated with the inhibition of migration of neutrophils in lung tissue and increased permeability induced by E. coli . In mice pretreated with NG -methyl-l-arginine, coadministration of E. coli with the NO donor ( Z )-1-[ N -(2-aminoethyl)- N -(2-ammonioethyl)amino]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate substantially restored MIP-2 expression but decreased ICAM-1 expression. The results suggest that NO generated after administration of E. coli serves as an important proinflammatory signal to up-regulate MIP-2 expression in vivo. Thus, NO production in high quantities may be important in the mechanism of amplification of the lung inflammatory response associated with sepsis.
Effect of Extrusion on the Antioxidant Capacity and Color Attributes of Expanded Extrudates Prepared from Purple Potato and Yellow Pea Flour Mixes

Foods with antioxidant capacity provide protection against cardio-vascular, certain forms of cancers, and Alzheimer's diseases caused by oxidative damages and contribute health benefits. The effect of extrusion cooking on the antioxidant capacity and color attributes of extruded products prepared from 3 selected formulations of purple potato and yellow pea flours using a co-rotating twin screw extruder were studied. Expansion ratios of the extruded products varied from 3.93 to 4.75. The total antioxidant capacities (TAC) of the extruded products, using DPPH assay, were 3769 to 4116 μg trolox equivalent/g dry weight sample and not significantly different (P > 0.05) from their respective raw formulations. The total phenolic contents (TP) of the extruded products varied from 2088 to 3766 μg of gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight sample and retained 73% to 83% of the TP from the raw formulations after extrusion. The total anthocyanins contents (TA) in the extrudates were 0.116 to 0.228 mg of malvidin-3-glucosides/g dry weight sample. Compared with their raw formulations, significant losses (60% to 70%) of the TA in the extruded products occurred due to extrusion cooking. Browning indices and color attributes such as brightness, chroma, and hue angle agreed with degradation of anthocyanins in the extruded products. However, extrusion cooking retained antioxidant capacities of the raw formulations in the extruded products either in their natural forms or degraded products with radical scavenging activity. This study demonstrated the potential for the production of puffed extruded food products with the improved antioxidant content from colored potatoes and pulse formulations.