cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Selection of Summary Statistics for Network Model Choice with Approximate Bayesian Computation

Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) now serves as one of the major strategies to perform model choice and parameter inference on models with intractable likelihoods. An essential component of ABC involves comparing a large amount of simulated data with the observed data through summary statistics. To avoid the curse of dimensionality, summary statistic selection is of prime importance, and becomes even more critical when applying ABC to mechanistic network models. Indeed, while many summary statistics can be used to encode network structures, their computational complexity can be highly variable. For large networks, computation of summary statistics can quickly create a bottleneck, making the use of ABC difficult. To reduce this computational burden and make the analysis of mechanistic network models more practical, we investigated two questions in a model choice framework. First, we studied the utility of cost-based filter selection methods to account for different summary costs during the selection process. Second, we performed selection using networks generated with a smaller number of nodes to reduce the time required for the selection step. Our findings show that computationally inexpensive summary statistics can be efficiently selected with minimal impact on classification accuracy. Furthermore, we found that networks with a smaller number of nodes can only be employed to eliminate a moderate number of summaries. While this latter finding is network specific, the former is general and can be adapted to any ABC application.
Observational evidence of the excitation of magnetosonic waves by an He ion ring distribution

We report plasma wave observations of equatorial magnetosonic waves at integer harmonics of the local gyrofrequency of doubly-ionized helium (He++). The waves were observed by Van Allen Probe A on ...
Paternal preconception phthalate exposure alters sperm methylome and embryonic programming.

Preconception environmental conditions have been demonstrated to shape sperm epigenetics and subsequently offspring health and development. Our previous findings in humans showed that urinary anti-androgenic phthalate metabolites in males were associated with altered sperm methylation and blastocyst-stage embryo development. To corroborate this, we examined the effect of preconception exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on genome-wide DNA methylation and gene expression profiles in mice. Eight-week old C57BL/6J male mice were exposed to either a vehicle control, low, or high dose of DEHP (2.5 and 25 mg/kg/weight, respectively) for 67 days (~2 spermatogenic cycles) and were subsequently mated with unexposed females. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) of epididymal sperm was performed and gastrulation stage embryos were collected for RRBS and transcriptome analyses in both embryonic and extra-embryonic lineages. Male preconception DEHP exposure resulted in 704 differentially methylated regions (DMRs; q-value < 0.05; ≥10% methylation change) in sperm, 1,716 DMRs in embryonic, and 3,181 DMRs in extra-embryonic tissue. Of these, 29 DMRs overlapped between sperm and F1 tissues, half of which showed concordant methylation changes between F0 and F1 generations. F1 transcriptomes at E7.5 were also altered by male preconception DEHP exposure including developmental gene families such as Hox, Gata, and Sox. Additionally, gene ontology analyses of DMRs and differentially expressed genes showed enrichment of multiple developmental processes including embryonic development, pattern specification and morphogenesis. These data indicate that spermatogenesis in adult may represent a sensitive window in which exposure to DEHP alters the sperm methylome as well as DNA methylation and gene expression in the developing embryo.
Colonialism, ethnogenesis, and biogeographic ancestry in the US Southwest

OBJECTIVE Differences between self-perceived biogeographic ancestry and estimates derived from DNA are potentially informative about the formation of ethnic identities in different sociohistorical contexts. Here, we compared self-estimates and DNA-estimates in New Mexico, where notions of shared ancestry and ethnic identity have been shaped by centuries of migration and admixture. MATERIALS AND METHODS We asked 507 New Mexicans of Spanish-speaking descent (NMS) to list their ethnic identity and to estimate their percentages of European and Native American ancestry. We then compared self-estimates to estimates derived from 291,917 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and we examined how differences between the estimates varied by ethnic identity. RESULTS Most NMS (94%) predicted that they had non-zero percentages of European and Native American ancestry. Self-estimates and SNP-estimates were positively correlated (rEuropean = 0.38, rNative-American = 0.36, p < 0.001). The correlations belie systematic patterns of underestimation and overestimation based on ethnic identity. NMS with ancestral ties to 20th century immigrants, who identified as Mexican or Mexican American, often underestimated their European ancestry (self-estimate < SNP-estimate) and overestimated their Native American ancestry. The pattern was reversed for NMS who emphasized deep connections to colonial New Mexico and identified as Spanish or Spanish American. DISCUSSION While NMS accurately predicted that they had European and Native American ancestry, they predicted ancestry percentages with only moderate accuracy. Differences between self-estimated and SNP-estimated ancestry were associated with ethnic identities that were shaped by migration to the region over the past 400 years. We connect ethnic identities and patterns of ancestry estimation to resistance to colonial hegemony and discuss the implications of our results for the construction of ethnic identities, now and in the past.
Itinerant Electron Scenario

I review works on Fe-based superconductors which depart from a metal with well-defined Fermi surfaces and Fermi liquid-type quasiparticles. I consider normal state instabilities—SDW magnetism and nematic order, and superconductivity, all three as the consequences of the instability of a Fermi surface due to interactions between low-energy fermionic quasiparticles. This approach assumes that renormalizations coming from fermions from high energies, of order bandwidth, modify but do not destroy Fermi liquid behavior in the normal state and can be absorbed into the effective low-energy model of interacting fermions located near hole and electron-type Fermi surfaces. I argue that the interactions between these fermions are responsible for (1) a stripe-type SDW magnetic order (and, in some special cases, a checkerboard order), (2) a pre-emptive nematic-type instability, in which magnetic fluctuations break C 4 lattice rotational symmetry down to C 2, but magnetic order does not yet develop, and (3) a superconductivity, which competes with these two orders. The experimental data on superconductivity show very rich behavior, with potentially different symmetry of a superconducting state even for different compositions of the same material. I argue that, despite all this, the physics of superconductivity in the itinerant scenario for Fe-based materials is governed by a single underlying pairing mechanism.
Practical Tips for Sexual Counseling and Psychotherapy in Premature Ejaculation

ABSTRACT Introduction A number of milestones in the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE) have occurred over the past five decades, including the development of various behavioral and cognitive techniques as well as pharmacotherapies that modify neurophysiological processes involved in ejaculation. Nevertheless, the notion that sexual responses such as PE are influenced by physiological, psychobehavioral, cultural, and relationship factors is as valid now as it was 50 years ago, and therefore, interventions should consider all such domains in the development of effective treatment strategies. Aim Provide an overview of which patients with PE are suitable to receive psychosexual treatment and the psychological approaches for managing this disorder. Methods Review of the literature. Main Outcome Measure Psychosexual treatments that integrate behavioral, psychological, and relationship functioning. Results PE is typically a couple's problem and, therefore, psychotherapy is best when the partner is involved. Before embarking on psychotherapy, the clinician should obtain a medical history pertaining to sexual-, psychological-, and relationship-related factors, so that the treatment strategy can be tailored to the needs of the individual. General strategies underpinning integrative, “process-oriented” elements of psychotherapy most relevant to PE are: developing the therapist–patient relationship; expressing empathy, genuineness, and positive regard; motivational interviewing, i.e., developing motivation to change; developing discrepancy; working through resistance; identifying PE-related affect, cognitions, and behaviors (including interaction with partners); and supporting self-efficacy. The four main domains that encompass psychotherapy techniques specific to the treatment of PE are: behavioral; cognitive; affective; and relational. Sustained positive outcomes in PE may be obtained using a combination treatment strategy that addresses all elements of PE, including psychological and biological factors. Conclusions Psychosexual treatments may help the patient with PE and his partner to address their sexual problems and improve their overall relationship. The effects of psychosexual therapy may be augmented by combining this intervention with pharmacotherapy. Rowland D and Cooper S. Practical tips for sexual counseling and psychotherapy in premature ejaculation.
Global Intracoronary Allogeneic Cardiosphere-Derived Cells Promote Functional Repair Without Affecting Myocardial Perfusion in a Porcine Model of Acute Myocardial Infarction

Objective: Intracoronary cardiosphere-derived cells (icCDCs) exert beneficial effects on left ventricular (LV) function in experimental models of myocardial infarction (MI), but the role of microva...
The Nonlinear Material Properties of Liver Tissue Determined From No-Slip Uniaxial Compression Experiments

The mechanical response of soft tissue is commonly characterized from unconfined uniaxial compression experiments on cylindrical samples. However, friction between the sample and the compression platens is inevitable and hard to quantify. One alternative is to adhere the sample to the platens, which leads to a known no-slip boundary condition, but the resulting nonuniform state of stress in the sample makes it difficult to determine its material parameters. This paper presents an approach to extract the nonlinear material properties of soft tissue (such as liver) directly from no-slip experiments using a set of computationally determined correction factors. We assume that liver tissue is an isotropic, incompressible hyperelastic material characterized by the exponential form of strain energy function. The proposed approach is applied to data from experiments on bovine liver tissue. Results show that the apparent material properties, i.e., those determined from no-slip experiments ignoring the no-slip conditions, can differ from the true material properties by as much as 50% for the exponential material model. The proposed correction approach allows one to determine the true material parameters directly from no-slip experiments and can be easily extended to other forms of hyperelastic material models.
An approach to optimal hyperspectral and multispectral signature and image fusion for detecting hidden targets on shorelines

ABSTRACT Hyperspectral and multispectral imagery of shorelines collected from airborne and shipborne platforms are used following pushbroom imagery corrections using inertial motion motions units and aug mented global positioning data and Kalman filtering. Corrected radiance or reflectance image s are the n used to optimize synthetic high spatial resolution spectral signatures resulting from an optimized data fusi on process. The process demonstrated utilizes littoral zone features from imagery acquired in the Gulf of Mexico region. S horeline imagery along the Banana River, Florida, is presented that utilizes a technique that makes use of numerical ly embedded target s in both higher spatial resolution multispectral images and lower spatial resolution hyperspectral imagery. The fusion process developed utilizes optimization procedures that include random selection of regions and pixels in the imagery, and minimizing the difference between the synthetic signatures and observed signatures. The optimized data fusi on approach allows detection of spectral anomalies in the resolution enhanced data cubes. Spectral -spatial anomaly detection is demonstrated using numerically emb edded line targets within a ctual imagery. The approach allows one to test spectral signature anomal y detection and to identify features and targets . The optimized data fusion techniques and software allows one to perform sensitivity analysis and optimizati on in the singular value decomposition model building process and the 2 -D Butterworth cutoff frequency and order numerical selection process . 7KHGDWDIXVLRQ³ synthetic imagery ´IRUP s a basis for spectral -spatial resolution enhancement for optimal band selection and remote sensing algorithm development within ³VSHFWUDO DQRPDO\ areas ´ Sensitivity analysis demonstrates the data fusion methodology is most sensitive to (a) the pixels and features used in the SVD model building process and (b) the 2 -D Butterworth cutoff frequency optimized by applic ation of K -S nonparametric test . The i mage fusion protocol is transferable to sensor data acquired from other platforms, including moving platforms as demonstrated. Keywords: image analysis, targ et detection, feature detection, calibration, hydrologic optics, airborne sensors, airborne imagery, hyperspectral sensing, multispectral imagery, radiative transfer, subsurface imaging, cameras, oil spills, data fusion, image contrast, derivative spectros copy, data fusion , shorelines, fusion protocol, fusion optimization.
Teacher Preparation for Profit or Prestige: Analysis of a Diverse Market for Teacher Preparation.

With increasing awareness of the importance of teacher quality for student learning, education policy leaders have turned their attention to the nation’s teacher training programs as a potential target for reform. One proposed strategy is to increase competition for university-based programs by encouraging new program types. This study examines the relative effectiveness of universities and new program types using the diverse market in Texas. We examine program effectiveness through a framework integrating certificate pathways, organizational goals, and market incentives. We find that independent nonprofits have positive effects on student performance in math that are not explained by teacher sorting or program selectivity. Effects of program types vary across student and school demographics, and some types are particularly effective with high-risk populations. However, some program types are not available to all schools, and thus small differences between program types do not justify focusing reforms on ...
Hip arthrodesis in young patients. A long-term follow-up study

We evaluated the results in fifty-three patients who had had a successful hip arthrodesis at least twenty years (average, thirty-eight years) prior to the study and who had been less than thirty-five years old at the time of operation. We determined the functional history of each patient and the current status of the opposite hip, the knees, and the back. Radiographs were made and each joint was rated according to standard clinical scales. Seventy-eight per cent of the patients were satisfied with the arthrodesis, and all were able to work. Fifty-seven per cent had some low-back pain and 45 per cent, some knee discomfort. Only seven patients (13 per cent) had had a total hip arthroplasty on the arthrodesed hip.
Adoption of a clinical decision support system to promote judicious use of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections in primary care

Abstract Purpose Overuse of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in primary care is an established risk factor for worsening antimicrobial resistance. The "Reducing Inappropriate Prescribing of Antibiotics by Primary Care Clinicians" study is assessing the impact of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) on antibiotic prescribing for ARIs using a multimethod intervention to facilitate CDSS adoption. The purpose of this report is to describe use of the CDSS, as well as facilitators and barriers to its adoption, during the first year of the 15-month intervention. Methods Between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2010, 39 providers in 9 practices in US states participated in this study. Quarterly EHR based audit and feedback, practice site visits for academic detailing, performance review and CDSS training, and "best-practice" dissemination during two meetings of study participants were used to facilitate CDSS adoption. Mixed methods were used to evaluate adoption of the CDSS. Using data extracted from the EHR, CDSS use for ARI was calculated. To determine facilitators and barriers of CDSS adoption, semi-structured group interviews were conducted with providers and staff at each practice. Results During the first year of implementation, the ABX-TRIP CDSS was used 14,086 times for ARI encounters. Overall, practice use of the CDSS during ARI encounters ranged from 39.4% to 77.2%. Median use of the CDSS for adult patients was 58.2% and 68.6% for pediatric patients. Key factors associated with CDSS adoption include the perception by providers that it assists with decision making and stimulates patient discussions, engagement of non-physician staff and an iterative CDSS development process. Conclusions Adoption of a custom designed CDSS in the first year of implementation is promising. Successful implementation of such technology requires a focus not only on the technological solution itself, but on its integration with the entire clinical workplace.
Biological Observations on Inopus rubriceps (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

Inopus rubriceps (Macquart) is a potentially serious pest which is now infesting lawns in San Francisco and San Mateo Counties in California. It was first reported in this area in 1948. The species is indigenous to eastern Australia, where it infests such crops as maize, pastures, and sugarcane. Damage to turf and other members of the grass family results from withdrawal of sap from roots of host plants by the larvae and, possibly, injection of a toxin into the plant. In California adults occur in large numbers from late September to early November each year. In some years there is a small spring flight. Eggs are deposited in crevices in the soil and hatch in 12 days at 20°C. The average number of eggs laid per female is 230 at 20°C. The length of larval life is believed to be at least 2 years. Larvae can survive extraordinarily long periods of starvation but are subject to rapid death by desiccation. Larvae can move well both horizontally and vertically through loose soil. Core samples taken over a 2-year period averaged 87 larvae per 0.093 ft of infested turf. Pupation occurs near the surface of the soil; the pupal stage lasts about 26 days at 20°C. At 20° adult female flies survived 5 days; males survived 8 days.
Characterization of Inositol-1,4,5-Trisphosphate-Gated Channels in the Plasma Membrane of Rat Olfactory Neurons

It is generally accepted that inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) plays a role in olfactory transduction. However, the precise mode of action of InsP3 remains controversial. We have characterized the conductances activated by the addition of 10 microM InsP3 to excised patches of soma plasma membrane from rat olfactory neurons. InsP3 induced current fluctuations in 25 of 121 inside-out patches. These conductances could be classified into two groups according to the polarity of the current at a holding potential of +40 to +60 mV (with Ringer's in the pipette and pseudointracellular solution in the bath). Conductances mediating outward currents could be further divided into large- (64 +/- 4 pS, n = 4) and small- (16 +/- 1.7 pS, n = 11) conductance channels. Both small- and large-conductance channels were nonspecific cation channels. The large-conductance channel displayed bursting behavior at +40 mV, with flickering increasing at negative holding potentials to the point where single-channel currents were no longer discernible. The small-conductance channel did not display flickering behavior. The conductance mediating inward currents at +40 to +60 mV reversed at +73 +/- 4 mV (n = 4). The current traces displayed considerable fluctuations, and single-channel currents could not be discerned. The current fluctuations returned to baseline after removal of InsP3. The power density spectrum for the excess noise generated by InsP3 followed a 1/f dependence consistent with conductance fluctuations in the channel mediating this current, although other mechanisms are not excluded. These experiments demonstrate the presence of plasma membrane InsP3-gated channels of different ionic specificity in olfactory receptor cells.
Factors influencing the safety of colostomy closure in the elderly

Although colostomy closure is a commonly performed surgical procedure, there remains concern that the attendant risks may be misjudged, especially in the elderly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of performing colostomy closure and to define the factors that may influence morbidity and mortality in patients over the age of 70. Three hundred seven patients (178 males, 129 females) underwent colostomy closure over a 5-year period. The mean age was 52 years and 84 (27%) of the patients were 70 years or older. The indications for colostomy included diverticulitis, 115 (38%); malignancy, 47 (15%); perforation 35 (11%); trauma, 34 (11%); congenital anomalies, 26 (8%); obstruction, 13 (4%); bleeding, 6 (2%); colovesical fistulae, 6 (2%); polyps, 2 (0.7%); and miscellaneous, 23 (8%). An end colostomy was performed in 193 (63%) patients and a transverse loop colostomy in the remaining 114 (37%). There were no deaths. Complications occurred in 27 (9%) patients: 17 were directly related to colostomy closure (8 wound infections, 3 intraabdominal abscesses, 3 small bowel obstructions, 2 anastomotic strictures, and 1 anastomotic leak) while 10 were nonsurgical. Risk factors statistically associated with increased morbidity included age > 70 years (13% versus 5%), end versus loop colostomy (10% versus 2%), an operative time > 2 hr, and estimated blood loss > or = 500 ml (P < 0.05). ASA classification was only predicative of postoperative complications in patients over 70 years of age. We conclude that although colostomy closure can be performed without mortality, the increased morbidity associated with this procedure in patients 70 years or older necessitates careful preoperative assessment.
The viscosity of the alkali metal vapors

Abstract The viscosities of cesium, rubidium, potassium, and sodium vapors have been measured up to 1000°C in the pressure range of 0.4 to 5 atm by a steady flow high-temperature coiled capillary viscometer. The interaction potential energies for the singlet and triplet states of alkali metal atoms from those of hydrogen atoms by a semi-empirical scaling procedure based on the repulsive-core theory. and those for the dimer-dimer, and monomer-dimer interactions have also been calculated from those for the triplet states by a semi-empirical pairing procedure. The Chapman-Enskog method has been used for the calculation of the viscosity of the alkali metal monatomic and diatomic vapors, and the viscosity of the equilibrium frozen-state vapors has also been calculated, either by a rigorous combination method or by Wilke's method. There is good agreement between values extrapolated from the experimental results and the calculated values of the viscosity of the alkali metal monatomic vapors, but those of the equilibrium vapors differ from the calculated values. This suggests that the Chapman-Enskog method may not be applicable to the viscosity of chemically associating gases.
Smooth Operating: A Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (SASB) Perspective on Initial Romantic Encounters

The present report used the comprehensive structural analysis of social behavior (SASB) observational coding scheme to examine which behaviors differentiate smooth from awkward initial romantic encounters. Participants on speed-dates rated as smooth (by independent observers) behaved more warmly and were more other-focused than participants on awkward dates. In addition, participants on smooth dates tended to avoid extremes on the autonomy dimension, exhibiting neither strong independence from nor strong interdependence with their speed-dating partners. Furthermore, the manner in which participants were self-focused (but not other-focused) reliably differentiated smooth from awkward dates; that is, date smoothness strongly predicted how participants reacted to their speed-dating partners (type of self-focus) but only weakly predicted how participants acted toward their speed-dating partners (type of other-focus). Finally, the authors note SASB’s potential to serve as an overarching framework that explains...
The Ionization and Dissociation of Water Vapor and Ammonia by Electron Impact

The results of a mass-spectrometric study of the products of ionization and dissociation of water vapor and ammonia by electron impact are given. The ionizing potential of the ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O molecule is found to be 13.0\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2 volts, and of the N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ molecule 10.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1 volts. The possible processes responsible for the formation of the various ions observed, both positive and negative, are discussed. Ions observed in ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O vapor are ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$, O${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$, $\mathrm{H}_{2}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, and ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. Ions observed in N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ are N$\mathrm{H}_{3}^{+}$, N$\mathrm{H}_{2}^{+}$, N${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{N}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$, N$\mathrm{H}_{3}^{++}$, N$\mathrm{H}_{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, and ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$.
Elastic constants of two dental porcelains

The development of stress that affects the bonding in porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) systems can be influenced by the temperature dependence of the elastic constants of both systems. Instead of using the normal, static procedure, e.g. determining the slope of a stress-strain curve, and measuring the lateral and vertical strains, in this study the sonic resonance technique was used to determine the elastic moduli for two dental bodyporcelains. The sonic resonance technique involves the determination of both the flexural as well as the torsional resonance frequencies. From these values both Young's,Y, and shear moduli,G, are determined. Since two elastic constants are sufficient to describe completely the elastic response of isotropic materials, it was also possible to compute, by usingY andG, the bulk modulus,B, and the Poisson's ratio. Resonant frequency measurements taken at elevated temperatures resulted in correspondingly lower values for the elastic constants. Young's and shear moduli for two dental porcelains obtained in the range from 20° C (293 K) to 500° C (773 K) are presented in this study. These data may in the future be used for refined stress calculations in PFM systems.
Narrowband (TL-01) UVB phototherapy beyond psoriasis

Editoral commentOver the past 10 years narrowband UVB has become established as a standard treatment for recalcitrant chronic plaque psoriasis. Dr Pravit Asawanonda and Dr Charles Taylor of the Mas...
Characterization of a plasmid carrying the Escherichia coli K-12 entD, fepA, fes, and entF genes

The plasmid pMS101 carries Escherichia coli K-12 genes (entD, fes, entF) essential for enterochelin-mediated iron transport [Laird, A.J. and Young, I.G., Gene 11 (1980) 359–366]. We have further characterized pMS101 and shown that it also contains the gene (fepA) for the 81 000 Da outer membrane ferrienterochelin receptor. Subcloning experiments in conjunction with complementation and maxicell studies demonstrated the gene order to be entD fepA fes entF. The entF- and fes-encoded polypeptides were found to be 115 000 and 42 000-Da soluble proteins, respectively. Plasmid-borne enterochelin cluster genes were overexpressed in iron-deficient conditions and their products were undetectable under iron-replete conditions.
Self‐Diffusion of 45Ca and 88Y in Pure and YF3‐Doped CaF2 Single Crystals

Tracer self-diffusion coefficients for Ca and Y were measured in pure and YF3-doped CaF2 crystals for dopant levels ranging from 2 to 10 mol% and temperatures between 960° and 1212°C. Coefficients for both cations increased approximately linearly with the square of the dopant concentration at constant temperature, with D*Ca>D*Y in doped crystals but D*Ca>D*Y in pure crystals. The activation energies for diffusion of both cations decreased with increasing dopant concentration. Atomic jump pathways are considered and the decrease in activation energy is explained in terms of reduction in the enthalpy of motion accompanying the formation of Willis anion defect clusters in the more heavily doped crystals.
Debate-Proof Grades: Experiences and Challenges of Using a Grading Rubric in a Social Welfare Policy Course

This article discusses the experiences and challenges of a graduate teaching assistant in using a grading rubric in a social welfare policy course. Using a grading rubric as a debate-proof strategy against the grade entitlement of students is expatiated. In addition, the benefits of using grading rubrics to achieve CSWE/EPAS competency expectations in social work are explored.
Pullorum Disease Studies in Turkeys V. On the Chemical Nature of the Factor Responsible for Zone Reactions in the Tube Agglutination Test for Pullorum Disease in Turkeys

Abstract THIS work was done in an attempt to gain some insight into the chemical nature of the factor responsible for zone reactions in the tube agglutination test and to find some method of removing it from the antiserum. The zone, or prozone, phenomenon in various types of serological reactions has been reported on numerous occasions. It has been generally assumed by the workers concerned that the zone phenomenon is due to some inhibitive substance which combines with the antigen and thus prevents the formation of the specific antigen-antibody complex. The reader is referred to Jamil and Stafseth (1948), and Wai and Stafseth (1950), for reviews of the literature on this subject. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twelve, four-month-old, White Holland turkey hens, obtained from a “pullorumfree” flock, were used. The antigens employed in the experimental stimulation of antibody production, and in the tube agglutination test, consisted of three standard strains of Salmonella pullorum . . .
Optimal Measuring Apparatus

An upper limit for the accuracy of the measurement of a simple quantity which does not commute with a conserved quantity is obtained in terms of the "size" of the apparatus. The "size" of the apparatus is defined as the mean square value ${\ensuremath{\hbar}}^{2}{M}^{2}$ of the conserved quantity for the apparatus which is, in the example chosen, the $z$ component of the angular momentum. The measured quantity is the projection of a spin in a perpendicular direction. It is found that the probability of an unsuccessful measurement is at least $\frac{1}{8{M}^{2}}$.
U–Th/Pb geochronology of detrital zircon and monazite by single shot laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SS-LA-ICPMS)

Abstract A modified single-shot laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SS-LA-ICPMS) technique is presented that enables rapid acquisition of in-situ U–Th/Pb dates on accessory minerals from a single laser pulse. Advances over existing techniques include formulation of a semi-automated data reduction method and robust error propagation. The effects of pulse-to-pulse laser stability and analyte transport configurations on the precision and accuracy of the analyses are systematically assessed. The validity of the SS-LA-ICPMS approach is demonstrated by repeat analyses of multiple zircon and monazite reference materials, which consistently reproduce to within uncertainty of accepted reference values. Application of the method to detrital zircon and monazite samples with a wide range of ages and variable parent and daughter nuclide concentrations results in U–Th/Pb age spectra that are statistically indistinguishable from conventional laser ablation protocols that employ continuous laser pulsing. The SS-LA-ICPMS technique is minimally destructive, offers increased sample and grain throughput and enables rapid dating of large numbers of grains—enabling, e.g., to identify grains that are geologically significant yet rare.
Age-related differences in phosphonoformate-induced bone toxicity in cats.

Phosphonoformate (PFA), a monophosphonate pyrophosphate analog, caused plasma biochemical and bone histomorphologic abnormalities in cats given 1,000 mg/kg/day as a continuous intravenous infusion for 14 days. Plasma biochemical alterations observed in young cats (10 weeks old) treated with PFA included increased calcium and decreased phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and calcitriol. Young cats treated with PFA developed rickets-like lesions characterized by widened growth plates, increased osteoid, and failure of mineralization. In addition, area of mineralized trabecular bone was decreased. Osteoclast size was increased whereas osteoclast perimeter and number were unaffected in young PFA-treated cats. Plasma alkaline phosphatase was decreased in adult cats (≥1 year old) treated with PFA but changes in calcium, calcitriol, and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone were highly variable and not significantly different. Adult cats treated with PFA exhibited osteomalacia characterized by increased osteoid area, perimeter, and width with failure of mineralization. In addition, static resorption indices were increased in PFA-treated adult cats but area of mineralized trabecular bone was not decreased. The monophosphonate PFA inhibited bone mineralization in young and adult cats similar to bisphosphonate treatment in other species. Because PFA is currently in phase I trials for use in AIDS, results of this study suggest a need to evaluate patients treated with PFA for metabolic bone disease.
Molecular approximation between residue 10 of secretin and its receptor demonstrated by photoaffinity labeling

Using photoaffinity labeling, we have previously explored the molecular approximations between multiple positions of secretin and its receptor. Interestingly, the amino-terminal secretin probe incorporating a photolabile residue in position 1 labels the top of the sixth transmembrane domain of the receptor, whereas other probes with photolabile residue in positions 6, 12, 13, 14, 18, 22, and 26 all label the long amino-terminal domain of the secretin receptor. Recently, we have developed a secretin probe that incorporated a radioiodinatable photolabile p-(4-hydroxybenzoyl)phenylalanine in position 10 and demonstrated that it efficiently labeled the secretin receptor in a saturable and specific manner. In this work, we attempted to further map its domain of labeling by cyanogen bromide (CNBr) cleavage of the wild-type and mutant receptors. Surprisingly, this position 10 probe labeled the top of the sixth transmembrane domain of the receptor, a domain labeled by the position 1 probe. These data provide an important constraint for modeling the agonist-bound G protein-coupled secretin receptor and should add substantially to our current understanding of the molecular basis of ligand binding of this important receptor.
Normal Metal-insulator-superconductor Junction Technology for Bolometers

Abstract Normal metal–insulator–superconductor tunnel junctions are candidates for large-format arrays of ultra-low noise equivalent power bolometers. Using a wafer scale process we have fabricated devices with the required sub μ m 3 volumes and ohmic superconductor–normal metal contacts for delivering power loads. Additionally, we demonstrate simultaneous tunnel junction thermometry and SQUID-based Johnson current noise thermometry.
Ranting about race: Crushed eggshells in computer-mediated communication

When conflicts about race erupt in computer-mediated communication (CMC), what can an instructor do? This article draws a distinction between unnecessary conflict and conflict that makes visible deeply held values and resentments. It provides suggestions as to how to forestall unnecessary conflict and emphasizes the importance of working through values-driven conflict.
MESA: Farsighted flow management for video delivery in broadband wireless networks

Video traffic over cellular and broadband wireless access networks has been rapidly increasing in the recent years. To ameliorate the effect of this increase at wireless bottleneck links, we design and implement the first farsighted flow management framework, called MESA. During periods of network overload, MESA attempts to maximize the long-term quality of experience for each user. MESA has three key differentiating features: (1) It enables joint soft admission control and scheduling across video flows, (2) it takes into account a long-term dissatisfaction metric in making admission control and scheduling decisions, which results in a uniform quality of experience to users, and (3) it builds on the resource virtualization paradigm to enable extensibility in response to future trends and innovations. We implement a prototype system of MESA and evaluate it in detail on a WiMAX network testbed using both static and mobile client scenarios.
On the Uniformly Minimum Variance Unbiased Estimators of the Variance and its Reciprocal of an Inverse Gaussian Distribution

Abstract The two-parameter inverse Gaussian distribution is found to have useful applications in a wide variety of fields. The uniformly minimum variance estimator of its mean is known and is the sample mean; however, no such estimator of the variance is reported in the literature. Here the uniformly minimum variance unbiased estimators of the variance and its reciprocal are derived.
SURGICAL APPROACH TO MIDDLE EAR ATELECTASIS

Summary Surgery for middle ear atelectasis remains challenging, often with unpredictable results. This relates to an incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology and natural history of atelectasis. Is the eustachian tube too firmly closed to allow equalization of pressure, resulting in middle ear gas absorption and the creation of “ex-vacuo” negative pressures? Or is there tubal incompetence allowing the negative pressures of the nasopharynx to be transduced to the middle ear? Why does retraction typically occur posteriorly if ventilation fails anteriorly? Surgery can restore function in an ear that has improved ventilation (as a result of surgery or maturation of the eustachian tube) and by constructing a TM that can resist the negative pressures of the middle ear. This can be achieved in a significant number of carefully selected patients using this technique. It is likely that with a better understanding of the pathophysiology of chronic negative middle ear pressure, outcomes would be more predictable.
Selection of Raman laser materials

In order to select Raman laser materials for a specific purpose, it is important to know which frequency shifts and excitation power thresholds can be expected from various substances. The thresholds are strongly dependent on the peak scattering cross sections of the corresponding incoherent Raman lines, and these cross sections can vary by several orders of magnitude between Raman lines from different molecules as well as between Raman lines from a single molecule. This paper points out how the rules concerning frequencies, intensities, degrees of depolarization, and line widths, established for incoherent Raman scattering, can be used as a guide for the prediction of Raman laser performance for new materials. Subsequently, all substances and participating vibrations which have been reported to exhibit stimulated Raman scattering to date are listed and discussed.
Copolymerization of (Meth)acrylates with Olefins Using Activators Regenerated by Electron Transfer for Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (ARGET ATRP)

Summary: Controlled copolymerization of polar (meth)acrylates with non-polar olefin monomers (1-octene, norbornene, vinylcyclohexane) was studied by ARGET (activators regenerated by electron transfer) ATRP (atom transfer radical polymerization). When a normal ATRP of n-butyl acrylate (nBA) and 1-octene was conducted, the polymerization resulted in relatively low conversion, limited control over the polymerization process and high polydispersity (PDI > 1.6). This was due to formation of a dormant species, by reaction of 1-octene radicals with Cu(II) deactivator, that could not be reactivated. However, in ARGET ATRP with 10 ppm amounts of Cu-based catalyst, higher yields and a better controlled copolymerization was obtained (PDI < 1.4), because the low concentration of Cu(II) deactivator reduced the formation of the non-reactive dormant species. The influence of the amount of Cu catalyst, ligand structure, initiators with different halogens, the reaction temperature, and monomer feed ratio were also investigated for ARGET ATRP. In copolymerization of (meth)acrylates with non-polar alkenes, the level of control and the total conversion in ARGET ATRP were higher than those for normal ATRP.
EFFECT OF NITRITE AND ERYTHORBATE ON RECOVERY OF Clostridium perfringens SPORES IN CURED PORK

Fresh pork shoulders were boned and ground through a 12.7 mm plate, packed in 1-kg packages, frozen at −28.9°C and stored at −17.8°C for 2 wk. The frozen pork samples were thawed for 24 hr at 3°C, then blended with a curing mixture consisting of 6 parts of NaCl and 1 part sugar at a rate of 47.5g/kg of meat with erythorbate and NaNO2 added to give levels of 0,183, 366 or 550 ppm of erythorbate and 0, 50,100, 150 or 200 ppm nitrite in the meat. The pork was then inoculated at the rate of 11 spores of Clostridium perfringens (UK92)/g, packed in quart jars (500/g jar) and cured for 2 wk at 1-4°C followed by 2 wk salt equalization at 12.8°C. Enumeration for C. perfringens began at this time and continued on alternate weeks during the 6-wk aging period. Recovery of C. perfringens spores was significantly reduced by NaNO2. After 4 wk, 80% of the inoculated spores were recovered from samples with no added nitrite while only about one-third of the spores were recovered from samples with the lowest level of NaNO2. Higher levels of nitrite and increased aging time reduced the number of spores recovered. At 10 wk, recovery was 38.0, 12.0, 5.4, 3.6 and 0.9% of inoculated spores, respectively, for 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm NaNO2. Sodium erythorbate had no significant effect on recovery of spores. Nitrite levels in the meat decreased rapidly with less than 60% of initial levels remaining after 24 hr. Only about 10% of initial concentrations were present after 4 wk. Results generally were similar for survival of C. perfringens spores and for nitrite losses when ground pork samples were dry-cured in stockinettes and aged for the same time and at the same temperature as those cured in jars.
Representaciones sociales sobre el proceso evaluación desde la mirada de docentes de 1° año básico en establecimientos municipalizados urbanos de la comuna de Quilpué.

Resumen es: El presente estudio consiste en una investigacion cualitativa a partir del discurso de un grupo de docentes de 1o Ano Basico sobre las creencias y repres...
Probabilistic Formulation of the Cyclic Void Growth Model to Predict Ultralow Cycle Fatigue in Structural Steel

The previously developed cyclic void growth model (CVGM) has been demonstrated to accurately simulate ductile fracture initiation under monotonic and ultralow cycle fatigue loading for a variety of steel materials and geometric configurations. Prediction of ductile fracture initiation involves significant uncertainty, particularly where there is high variability in the material (e.g., welded connections) subjected to irregular cyclic loading. The reliability of the model predictions is improved through a probabilistic formulation based on maximum likelihood parameter estimation. The probabilistic formulation, which incorporates information from both the failure and nonfailure loading cycles, has the following features: (1) the calibration of model parameters provides the maximum likelihood of agreement for a given set of cyclic fracture observations, and (2) fracture predictions are provided in a probabilistic sense by generating a distribution of the expected instant of fracture. The benefit of the approach is twofold. First, it eliminates an inconsistency that is inherent in the deterministic calibration procedure, as proposed in the original development of the CVGM. Second, the degree of certainty of fracture predictions is quantified. In combination, these features significantly enhance the robustness of the framework within which the model is implemented. Although this paper applies this approach in the specific context of the CVGM, the method can be generalized to other models that share similar characteristics.
Restricted diffusion of macromolecules through agar-gel membranes.

Abstract A gel-diffusion technique in which transport occurs across a thin agar membrane has been devised. This technique was used for pore-size calibration of a series of agar gels of various concentrations by measurement of hindrance to diffusion of human hemoglobin and southern bean mosaic virus particles. Pore radii calculated from independent restricted diffusion measurements of these two particle-species by use of a theoretical equation of renkin were in very good agreement, and show that this equation provides a close approximation to the diffusional restriction occurring in these systems. Values of restricted diffusion coefficients in gels of various pore sizes were obtained from restricted diffusion measurements of four other proteins (rabbit γ-globulin, human serum albumin, bovine serum albumin, and pancreatic ribonuclease). When these coefficients were extrapolated to conditions of infinite pore size (zero gel concentration) the values obtained agreed generally with reported values of the free diffusion coefficients for these proteins. Sharp differentiation in diffusional restriction on the basis of particle size and shape was demonstrated.