cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling tensile response and flow localization effects in 316SS after exposure to spallation and fission irradiation environments

The mechanical stability of structural materials under irradiation is a major concern for reactor component design and life cycle evaluation. The most important issue is the loss of ductility due to the development of radiation damage defect structures in the material. The acute loss of material tensile ductility is often characterized by a process where the material necks at very low uniform elongations in tensile loading, just following the yield point, a process commonly referred to as flow localization. The process where small tensile strains lead to plastic instability is examined through the analysis of tensile test data for 316SS irradiated either in a fission neutron spectrum or in a mixed proton and neutron spectrum characteristic of spallation sources. In both cases, it is found that uniform elongation levels are limited by a critical material strength. It is shown that there is a direct correlation between the material yield strength and the uniform elongation for the materials examined here. It is also shown that the large differences in He and H production between the two kinds of radiation environments have little or no effect on tensile properties. A further implication of the work is that the specifics of the post-yield flow and strain hardening processes are less important than the critical stress for determining the onset of plastic instability.
Feminism, intellectuals and the formation of micro-publics in postcommunist ukraine

This article broadens understanding of the role that East European intellectuals have played in building foundations for democratic institutions and practices over the past two decades. Drawing on Habermas’ writings on the public sphere, we use interviews conducted with founders of women’s and gender studies centers, professional women’s NGOs and Internet forums to examine the establishment of new micro-contexts for civic engagement and critical debate in Ukraine. Three main types of indigenous feminist micro-public are identified: academic, professional and virtual. Through an analysis of these micro-publics as well as the works of writer Oksana Zabuzhko, we explore the articulation and legitimation of a “national feminist” standpoint that draws upon feminism to criticize populist understandings of national history and civic belonging. We contribute to studies of democratization and transition by suggesting how small groups of critical intellectuals (locally called “tusovky”) acted as microfoundations of civil society. By supporting local engagement with Western critical theory, these small groups helped to create a new infrastructure for engaging intellectuals in the pluralization and diversification of public life.
On some problems of buckling of prismatical beams under the influence of axial and transverse loads

Recent results of a variational analysis of finite deformations of prismatical beams are specialized so as to apply to the problems of buckling of cantilever beams with singly symmetric cross sections, acted upon by an axial end force, and end bending moment, and a transverse end force. Given the classical formulae of Euler and Michell-Prandtl, the paper is concerned, in particular, with modifications of these formulae due to the influence of transverse shear-deformability, pre-buckling deformation, warping stiffness, and non-coincidence of centroid and shear center. Comparisons are also made of the present results with previously known results based on the application of the classical one-dimensional Kirchhoff equations, and on the application of certain one-dimensional generalizations of Kirchhoff's equations.
Interest in learning of personal genetic risk for cancer: a general population survey.

Abstract Background. Previous studies have reported high interest in genetic testing for risk for colon or breast–ovarian cancer. These studies, however, have used samples which might be atypical with regard to level of interest evident among the general U.S. population. Methods. As part of an annual statewide telephone health survey, adults’ ( n = 649) interest in learning about their personal genetic predisposition for cancer was assessed. Results. High levels of interest in learning about a personal genetic predisposition for cancer in general (87%) and breast cancer in particular (93%) were expressed. Logistic regression analysis indicated that lack of interest was associated with less education, minority status, and less performance of other health-protective behaviors. Only 53% of respondents reported their understanding of genetics was “good” or “excellent.” Conclusion. While interest in learning of one's personal genetic predisposition for cancer was high, many individuals requesting testing may have a less than good understanding of genetics and the implications of test results. Furthermore, variables associated with lack of interest in learning about personal genetic risk for cancer in this study were similar to those which have been previously found to be associated with poor utilization of other cancer control activities such as breast or cervical cancer screening.
Doppler-limited and atmospheric spectra of the 4-μm ν1 + ν3 combination band of SO2

Abstract The combination vibration-rotation ν1+ν3 band of SO2 has been recorded under Doppler-limited and atmospheric conditions with 3 × 10−4 cm−1 instrumental resolution using a difference-frequency laser. The spectra are compared to recent theories based on rotational constants from microwave data.
Molecular Composites Comprising Rodlike Polyamides and Vinyl Polymers

Abstract At present we have strong evidence that several members of a series of wholly-aromatic, para-linked, rodlike polyamides, polyesters, and polyesteramides form molecular composites with certain flexible-chain, thermoplastic polymers over a wide range of compositions. This paper reports on the initial results of an investigation of intermolecular interactions using spectroscopy and various scattering techniques as well as characterization of some of the mechanical and optical properties of these materials. The composites are made by two techniques: 1) photo-polymerization of a homogeneous solution of a rodlike polymer in a monomer containing a photoinitiation; 2) solvent evaporation from homogeneous solutions of very limited combinations of solvent, rodlike polymers and flexible polymers. While both of these techniques produce optically clear, nonscattering films of various thicknesses over the entire compositional range, e.g., 1–99 wt% of rodlike polymer, the latter is generally more convenient and...
Complex compatriots: Jews in post-Vichy French Algeria

In 1870, the entire Arabic-speaking Jewish population of 30,000 living North of the Sahara became French citizens overnight through the so-called Cremieux Decree. They were never accepted by the European settlers as one of their own, despite a shared French status. Weathering the sustained anti-Semitism in Algeria and the persecution of the Vichy government, Algerian Jews remained committed to their French status throughout the Algerian War. However, this was not a simple nationalist consciousness. This article revisits the period of the 1950s to examine the impact that the Vichy regime's abrogation of the Cremieux Decree and revocation of Jewish citizenship had on Algerian Jews. After World War II, educated French Jews in Algeria became aware of the fragility of the Cremieux Decree. They actively engaged with the World Jewish Congress (WJC), which came to their aid after Vichy, and took interest in their place among Jews worldwide. During the Algerian War, as the Zionists of the WJC, Jewish agencies, the...
Parasite-mediated disruptive selection in a natural Daphnia population

A mismatch has emerged between models and data of host-parasite evolution. Theory readily predicts that parasites can promote host diversity through mechanisms such as disruptive selection. Yet, despite these predictions, empirical evidence for parasite-mediated increases in host diversity remains surprisingly scant. Here, we document parasite-mediated disruptive selection on a natural Daphnia population during a parasite epidemic. The mean susceptibility of clones collected from the population before and after the epidemic did not differ, but clonal variance and broad-sense heritability of post-epidemic clones were significantly greater, indicating disruptive selection and rapid evolution. A maximum likelihood method that we developed for detecting selection on natural populations also suggests disruptive selection during the epidemic: the distribution of susceptibilities in the population shifted from unimodal prior to the epidemic to bimodal after the epidemic. Interestingly, this same bimodal distribution was retained after a generation of sexual reproduction. These results provide rare empirical support for parasite-driven increases in host genetic diversity, and suggest that this increase can occur rapidly.
"Perspectives in Organizational Identity, Culture, and Change in Light of the Theory of Autopoiesis"

Theories regarding the biological basis of human cognition, such as the theory of autopoiesis, can elucidate opaque aspects concerning several topics in organizational studies such as organizationa...
Epidermal Growth Factor (Urogastrone) in Human Tissues

Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF), which stimulates the growth of a variety of tissues, was first isolated from mouse submandibular glands, but is also excreted in large amounts (about 50 micrograms/day) in human urine and is probably identical to human beta-urogastrone (hUG), a potent inhibitor of stimulated gastric acid secretion. However, the primary tissue source of hEGF/hUG is as yet unknown. The hEGF/hUG in homogenates of human salivary glands and a wide variety of other endocrine and nonendocrine tissues was extracted by Amberlite CG-50 cation exchange chromatography and immune affinity chromatography using the immunoglobulin fraction of rabbit anti-hEGF serum covalently bound to agarose. The extracts were subjected to homologous hEGF RIA. Immunoreactive hEGF was found in extracts of adult submandibular gland, thyroid gland, duodenum, jejunum, and kidney, but not in several fetal tissues. The tissue immunoreactive hEGF was similar to standard hEGF in terms of immunoreactivity and elution from Sephadex G-50 Fine resin, but its concentrations were very low (1.3-5.5 ng/g wet tissue). Thus, it is not certain that these tissues represent the only source of the large amounts of hEGF/hUG that appear to be filtered by the kidneys each day.
The effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for victims of interparental violence

This study compares the effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) in reducing behavior problems (e.g., aggression, defiance, anxiety) of 62 clinic-referred, 2- to 7-year-old, maltreated children exposed to interparental violence (IPV) with a group of similar children with no exposure to IPV (N=67). Preliminary analyses showed that IPV-exposed dyads were no more likely to terminate treatment prematurely than non IPV-exposed dyads. Results of repeated-measures MANCOVAs showed significant decreases in child behavior problems and caregivers' psychological distress from pre- to posttreatment for IPV-exposed and IPV nonexposed groups, and no significant variation by exposure to IPV. Stress in the parent role related to children's difficult behaviors and the parent-child relationship decreased from pre- to posttreatment, but parental distress did not decrease significantly over the course of PCIT. Results of an analysis testing the benefits of a full course of treatment over the first phase of treatment showed that dyads completing the full course of treatment reported significantly greater improvements in children's behavior problems than those receiving only the first phase of treatment.
Ingestion of erythrocytes containing 51Cr-labeled hemoglobin by Psoroptes cuniculi (Acari: Psoroptidae).

Washed rabbit erythrocytes labeled with radioactive chromium in vitro were resuspended in plasma and injected into 2 adult female rabbits that were heavily infested with ear canker mites, Psoroptes cuniculi . After 24 h the mites were harvested and the radioactivity was measured. The mites (850 mg) contained approximately 77 μl of blood and had digested almost ½ the hemoglobin. The data suggest that the mites actually penetrate the capillaries and ingest intact erythrocytes during feeding.
Enzymatic amplification of DNA/RNA hybrid molecular beacon signaling in nucleic acid detection.

Abstract A rapid assay operable under isothermal or nonisothermal conditions is described, where the sensitivity of a typical molecular beacon (MB) system is improved by using thermostable RNase H to enzymatically cleave an MB composed of a DNA stem and an RNA loop (R/D-MB). On hybridization of the R/D-MB to target DNA, there was a modest increase in fluorescence intensity (∼5.7× above background) due to an opening of the probe and a concomitant reduction in the Forster resonance energy transfer efficiency. The addition of thermostable RNase H resulted in the cleavage of the RNA loop, which eliminated energy transfer. The cleavage step also released bound target DNA, enabling it to bind to another R/D-MB probe and rendering the approach a cyclic amplification scheme. Full processing of R/D-MBs maximized the fluorescence signal to the fullest extent possible (12.9× above background), resulting in an approximately 2- to 2.8-fold increase in the signal-to-noise ratio observed isothermally at 50 °C following the addition of RNase H. The probe was also used to monitor real-time polymerase chain reactions by measuring enhancement of donor fluorescence on R/D-MB binding to amplified pUC19 template dilutions. Hence, the R/D-MB–RNase H scheme can be applied to a broad range of nucleic acid amplification methods.
HOYT LONG. On Uneven Ground: Miyazawa Kenji and the Making of Place in Modern Japan

Stanford: Stanford University Press, 2012. ix, 298 pp. US$60.00, hardcover. There are many features of the career of the poet and storywriter Miyazawa Kenji (1896–1933) that set him apart from the ...
Unlocking the culture for quality schools: reengineering

Successful school reform requires a paradigm shift which begins with unlocking the school’s existing culture before attempts are made to integrate reform variables. Reengineering, and rethinking and radical redesign of internal processes calls for discarding current practices and reinventing better ways to supply products and services. Holistic thinking, cross‐sectional configurations, proactive behaviour patterns, reward for innovation and creativity, and the demise of traditional infrastructures are essential for facilitating fluid social, economic and political trends into the 21st century. Educators must think differently about the purpose of schools and their delivery and redesign infrastructures which are built on shared values and beliefs, multiple interacting linkages and teamwork. School leaders are the catalysts for change and, working with the school’s power agents and modeling expected behaviours, motivate teachers to replace the old culture with new processes of schooling. Shared ownership of case values, realistic and achievable goals and collaboration places the responsibility for creating a reengineered delivery system on teachers themselves.
Identification of candidate genes and molecular markers for heat-induced brown discoloration of seed coats in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp)

Heat-induced browning (Hbs) of seed coats is caused by high temperatures which discolors the seed coats of many legumes, affecting the visual appearance and quality of seeds. The genetic determinants underlying Hbs in cowpea are unknown. We identified three QTL associated with the heat-induced browning of seed coats trait, Hbs-1, Hbs-2 and Hbs-3, using cowpea RIL populations IT93K-503-1 (Hbs positive) x CB46 (hbs negative) and IT84S-2246 (Hbs positive) x TVu14676 (hbs negative). Hbs-1 was identified in both populations, accounting for 28.3% -77.3% of the phenotypic variation. SNP markers 1_0032 and 1_1128 co-segregated with the trait. Within the syntenic regions of Hbs-1 in soybean, Medicago and common bean, several ethylene forming enzymes, ethylene responsive element binding factors and an ACC oxidase 2 were observed. Hbs-1 was identified in a BAC clone in contig 217 of the cowpea physical map, where ethylene forming enzymes were present. Hbs-2 was identified in the IT93K-503-1 x CB46 population and accounted for of 9.5 to 12.3% of the phenotypic variance. Hbs-3 was identified in the IT84S-2246 x TVu14676 population and accounted for 6.2 to 6.8% of the phenotypic variance. SNP marker 1_0640 co-segregated with the heat-induced browning phenotype. Hbs-3 was positioned on BAC clones in contig512 of the cowpea physical map, where several ACC synthase 1 genes were present. The identification of loci determining heat-induced browning of seed coats and co-segregating molecular markers will enable transfer of hbs alleles into cowpea varieties, contributing to higher quality seeds.
HMM-based stressed speech modeling with application to improved synthesis and recognition of isolated speech under stress

A novel approach is proposed for modeling speech parameter variations between neutral and stressed conditions and employed in a technique for stressed speech synthesis and recognition. The proposed method consists of modeling the variations in pitch contour, voiced speech duration, and average spectral structure using hidden Markov models (HMMs). While HMMs have traditionally been used for recognition applications, here they are employed to statistically model the characteristics needed for generating pitch contour and spectral perturbation contour patterns to modify the speaking style of isolated neutral words. The proposed HMM models are both speaker and word-independent, but unique to each speaking style. While the modeling scheme is applicable to a variety of stress and emotional speaking styles, the evaluations presented focus on angry speech, the Lombard (1911) effect, and loud spoken speech in three areas. First, formal subjective listener evaluations of the modified speech confirm the HMMs ability to capture the parameter variations under stressed conditions. Second, an objective evaluation using a separately formulated stress classifier is employed to assess the presence of stress imparted on the synthetic speech. Finally, the stressed speech is also used for training and shown to measurably improve the performance of an HMM-based stressed speech recognizer.
Regulation of proline utilization in enteric bacteria: cloning and characterization of the Klebsiella put control region.

Abstract Enteric bacteria can grow on proline as the sole nitrogen and carbon source. Expression of the proline utilization (put) operon in Klebsiella strains and Escherichia coli is responsive to nitrogen regulation. In contrast, Salmonella typhimurium cannot activate put operon expression when growing in medium with glucose as a carbon source and proline as the sole nitrogen source. To compare nitrogen regulatory sites in the control regions of the put operons in these three closely related genera, we cloned the Klebsiella put operon onto a plasmid. The putA and putP genes were localized on the plasmid by transposon mutagenesis. The DNA sequence of the put control region was determined and compared with those of the put control regions from S. typhimurium and E. coli. The overall size and organization of the put control region were very similar in all three bacteria. However, no obvious ntr regulatory sites were found in this region, and transcription of the put genes started at the same sites during growth with limiting or excess nitrogen. These results strongly suggested that the Klebsiella put operon may not be directly regulated by the ntr system.
Chelating Base Effects in Palladium-Mediated Activation of Molecular Oxygen

We elucidate here the mechanism for the reaction of molecular oxygen with palladium-hydride complexes in toluene using quantum mechanics (B3LYP/LACVP** with the PBF polarizable continuum solvent model) for ((−)sparteine)-PdII(H)OAc. Here we focus specifically on two classes of pathways: (1) those proceeding through Pd0 and (2) those involving direct insertion of oxygen into the Pd–H bond. In particular, we present calculated potential energy surfaces and structures of the ((−)-sparteine)PdH system in which the OAc ion is substituted for Cl. We find that the acetate ligand has the ability to act as a base while chelating the Pd, making an external base unnecessary and significantly lowering the energy barrier involved in the Pd0 pathway. This switches the calculated preference to the reductive elimination pathway proceeding through Pd0 (ΔΔH⧧ = 1.0 kcal/mol, ΔΔG⧧ = −7.7 kcal/mol). The results presented herein demonstrate the ability to steer the reaction pathway through the choice of ancillary ligands. We e...
Mathematically Gifted in the Heterogeneously Grouped Mathematics Classroom: What Is a Teacher to Do?.

Differentiation provides one method by which teachers can provide appropriate challenges at appropriate levels for all learners in a heterogeneously grouped mathematics classroom, where the range of abilities and interests can be wide. This article considers a heterogeneously grouped high school geometry class where differentiation is practiced. Students who demonstrated mastery of the concepts and skills still under study are invited to move into a differentiated option closely linked to the current class material. Three differentiation opportunities are presented and discussed. The first opportunity is an extension and application of current class work. The second is an investigation of open-ended questions. The third is a consideration of student-selected problems. Each provides content, process, and product differentiation.
Dislocation motion in magnesium: a study by molecular statics and molecular dynamics

The motion of dislocations with Burgers' vector lying on the basal, prismatic and pyramidal slip planes in pure magnesium was investigated numerically under static and dynamic loading conditions. The analysis of the dislocation core structures revealed that the basal slip system was the most favorable energetically, and therefore a dislocation loop cannot extend on the pyramidal slip plane, because screw dislocations were not stable in this slip plane. In agreement with experimental data, a strong anisotropy between slip systems was observed. In both the basal and the prismatic slip planes, the dislocation velocity is consistent with phonon drag theory. In addition, the edge dislocation velocity was always larger than the screw dislocation velocity independent of the slip system, while the dislocation velocity on the prismatic slip plane was always lower than the dislocation velocity on the basal plane regardless of the dislocation character.
Structure and Gas-Flow Pattern in the Avian Respiratory System

Abstract INTRODUCTION Remarkable progress has been made the last two decades in clarifying the structure and function of the avian respiratory system. It is now easily possible to generate a mental picture of the system's morphology, which is useful in studying its normal function or the influence of disease on that function. The purpose of this brief review is to assist those not intimately familiar with the avian respiratory system in understanding several major concepts regarding the system. Great detail is omitted so “the trees do not hide the forest”. Those desiring more detail can consult recent review articles by King (1966), Duncker (1971), King and Molony (1971), Lasiewski (1972), King and McLelland (1975), King and White (1975), Fedde (1976), and Nickel et al., (1977). The terminology used here is that adopted by the International Committee on Avian Anatomical Nomenclature, soon to be published in Nomina Anatomica Avium. The Avian, Flow-Through . . .
The external genitalia of female pygmy chimpanzees

The external genitalia of four adult female pygmy chimpanzees (Pan paniscus) were examined during a 2-year period. It was found that the labia majora are retained in adults of this species and that, when tumescent, the labia minora effectively relocate the frenulum and clitoris so that they point anteriorly between the thighs. When detumescent, the configuration of the labia minora and clitoris resembles that of immature common chimpanzees (P. troglodytes). It is suggested that the simple, structural relocation of the clitoris from the normal condition noted in adult P. troglodytes makes possible the homosexual, intergenital rubbing observed in P. paniscus, when ventroventral juxtaposition of the individuals permits eye-to-eye contact. In addition, this change probably increases sexual stimulation of the female during heterosexual, ventroventral copulations. The possibility of intense, face-to-face sexual interactions has been achieved by P. paniscus without the evolution of bipedalism and the consequent reorientation of the genitalia seen in Homo sapiens.
Enhanced Manual and Oral Motor Reaction Time in Young Adult Female Fragile X Premutation Carriers

A previous study reported preliminary results of enhanced processing of simple visual information in the form of faster reaction times, in female fragile X premutation carriers (fXPCs). In this study, we assessed manual and oral motor reaction times in 30 female fXPCs and 20 neurotypical (NT) controls. Participants completed two versions of the reaction time task; one version required a manual motor response and the other version required an oral motor response. Results revealed that the female fXPCs displayed faster reaction times for both manual and oral motor responses relative to NT controls. Molecular measures including CGG repeat length, FMR1 mRNA levels, and age were not associated with performance in either group. Given previously reported age and CGG repeat modulated performance on a magnitude comparison task in this same group of premutation carriers, results from the current study seem to suggest that female fXPCs may have spared basic psychomotor functionality. (JINS, 2011, 17, 746–750)
Calving and calving management of beef cows and heifers on cow-calf operations in the United States

A national sample of cow–calf producers was contacted to participate in a study to describe selected calving management practices on operations throughout the United States. Information was gathered on calving season, frequency of dystocia, frequency of observation, timing of assistance, and calving facilities. Regional and herd size differences existed in all parameters evaluated. Most calves (63.9%) were born in the months of February, March, and April. Overall, 16.7% of heifers and 2.7% of cows required some level of assistance in calving. Heifers and cows were checked an average of only 3.6 and 2.5 times per 24 h period during the calving season. Producers allowed heifers to labor for an average of 2.8 h prior to lending assistance in calving while cows were allowed an average of 3.5 h before providing assistance. In addition, only 39.6% of calvings took place in specialized calving areas presumably to allow increased observation frequency, timely intervention and protection from the elements. Collectively, these management practices illustrate that opportunities exist to improve calf survivability and increase reproductive efficiency in many cow herds. # 2003 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
Reliable signal classification using quality assurance and clustering-an application to sleep stage scoring

This paper examines how quality assurance techniques can be applied to the challenging, real-world problem of sleep stage scoring. Quality assurance not only promotes the user's confidence in computer-generated scoring, but more importantly acts as a safeguard against poorly scored sleep studies. Ninety all-night studies were examined. Without quality assurance, the average agreement with a human expert was 86%. However, only 28% of the studies met the desired goal of 90% agreement. Eleven of the studies were below 80% agreement, with a low of 66%. By verifying the correctness of random samples, and performing additional work on poorly scored studies, the agreement rose to 91%, with a low of 84%. 76% of the studies met the target of 80% agreement. A second approach, using clustering to help pick the samples to be verified, further increased the average agreement to 92%, with the low rising to 86%, while the number of events needed to be examined by the somnologist decreased. Additionally, 88% of the studies met or exceeded the 90% agreement. As a result of using clustering, greater and more efficient protection is provided. >
The osseous and angiographic features of vertebral chordomas.

Eight cases of vertebral chordoma, exclusive of the sacrococcygeus, are presented. The conventional radiographic signs in descending order of importance in differential diagnosis are: destruction of multiple adjacent vertebral bodies; a paravertebral or precerevical soft tissue mass; osteosclerosis, seen mainly at the periphery of the destructive lesion; and involvement of the intervening intervertebral disc space. All eight patients had a demonstrable intraspinal extension of chordoma on myelography. Four patients had complete blocks, two epidural in configuration, and two intradural in appearance — indicative of dural invasion by the neoplasm. Four patients had angiographic evaluation. Two demonstrated angiographic features usually associated with soft tissue malignant tumors. Angiography in all four cases was helpful in determining the full extent of the lesion, more so than either conventional radiography or myelography.
AbsCN-seq: a statistical method to estimate tumor purity, ploidy and absolute copy numbers from next-generation sequencing data

Motivation Detection and quantification of the absolute DNA copy number alterations in tumor cells is challenging because the DNA specimen is extracted from a mixture of tumor and normal stromal cells. Estimates of tumor purity and ploidy are necessary to correctly infer copy number, and ploidy may itself be a prognostic factor in cancer progression. As deep sequencing of the exome or genome has become routine for characterization of tumor samples, in this work, we aim to develop a simple and robust algorithm to infer purity, ploidy and absolute copy numbers in whole numbers for tumor cells from sequencing data. Results A simulation study shows that estimates have reasonable accuracy, and that the algorithm is robust against the presence of segmentation errors and subclonal populations. We validated our algorithm against a panel of cell lines with experimentally determined ploidy. We also compared our algorithm with the well-established single-nucleotide polymorphism array-based method called ABSOLUTE on three sets of tumors of different types. Our method had good performance on these four benchmark datasets for both purity and ploidy estimates, and may offer a simple solution to copy number alteration quantification for cancer sequencing projects. Availability and implementation The R package absCNseq is available from http://biostats.mcc.ucsd.edu/files/absCNseq_1.0.tar.gz CONTACT: kmesser@ucsd.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Production of T-helper cell subsets and cytokines by lymphocytes from patients with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.

Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by recurrent and persistent superficial candidal infections. Cytokine-induced dysregulation of T-helper cell function has been described in other immune-deficient states but has not been studied in CMC patients. We studied T-helper cell subsets by flow cytometry and cytokine production by stimulated lymphocytes in six CMC patients, two healthy pediatric controls, and five healthy adult controls. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were stimulated in vitro with phytohemagglutinin or Candida albicansextract, and the production of interleukin-2R (IL-2R), IL-4, IL-10, and gamma interferon in the supernatants was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CMC patients had a decrease in the CD4 1 /CD29 1 cell population compared with the numbers in controls (P< 0.02). The percentage of CD4 1 /CD45RA 1 cells was greater in patients than in controls, but the difference was not significant. There was no difference in the production of IL-10 or gamma interferon by the patient lymphocytes. CMC patients produced more IL-4 than the controls (P< 0.001), whereas the controls tendedtoproducemoreIL-2Rthanthepatients(P 50.19).Thesefindingssupporttheconceptthatadecrease in CD4 1 /CD29 1 T-helper inducer cells along with T-helper cell dysregulation may lead to defective memory responsestoantigensinCMCpatientsandadecreaseincell-mediatedimmunityduetoinhibitionofTH1cells by increased levels of IL-4.
A model for efficiency-based resource integration in services

Service processes, such as consulting, require coordinated efforts from the service recipient (client) and the service provider in order to deliver the desired output – a process known as resource integration. Client involvement directly affects the efficiency of service processes, thereby affecting capacity decisions. We present a mathematical model of the resource-integration decision for a service process through which the client and the service provider co-produce resource outputs. This workforce planning model is unique because we include the extent of client involvement as a policy variable and introduce to the resource-planning model efficiency and quality performance measures, which are functions of client involvement. The optimization of resource planning for services produces interesting policy prescriptions due to the presence of a client-modulated efficiency function in the capacity constraint and subjective client value placed on participation in the service process. The primary results of this research are optimal decision rules that provide insights into the optimal levels of client involvement and provider commitment in resource integration.
Learning-related behaviours versus cognitive ability in the academic performance of Vincentian children.

Background. The few studies of children's academic performance in developing countries have largely focused on effects of early risks and cognitive ability and usually neglected other factors such as attention and anxiety. Previously, we reported that scores on the Learning Behaviour Scale (LBS) and the Revised Behaviour Problem Checklist (RBPC) were correlated with academic scores and achievement test scores for village children in St Vincent, the West Indies. Aims. We examined the stability of LBS and RBPC scores and their ability to predict academic and achievement scores in the same population. Sample. Vincentian village children, ages 6-12, participated in the study: 65 participated in the one-year sample and 68 participated in the two-year sample. Method. Children completed a curriculum-based achievement test and the Raven Coloured Progressive Matrices. Teachers completed the LBS and an adjusted RBPC and reported children's academic scores in 1998 and 1999. Results. LBS scores were stable over one year and RBPC scores were stable over two years. LBS, RBPC, and Raven scores predicted achievement and academic scores. For both academic scores and achievement test scores, the greatest improvement in prediction came when the RBPC's attention and anxiety subscales were added to regression models. Conclusions. Results provide additional support for the finding that Caribbean village children's academic performance is greatly influenced by attention and anxiety problems, not just their cognitive ability. Despite cultural differences, LBS and RBPC scores were as predictive of academic performance in this population as in American populations. The best way to improve academic performance for these children may be to reduce attention problems.
Cation Diffusion Kinetics in Aluminosilicate Garnets and Geological Applications

The compositional properties of garnet probably preserve the most extensive records of the pressure-temperature-time ( P - T - t ) history of metamorphic rocks. There are a number of cation-exchange and discontinuous reactions involving garnet that have been extensively used to decipher the P - T conditions or P - T paths of the host rocks as these were buried and exhumed (e.g., Ganguly and Saxena 1987; Spear 1993). However, as metamorphic garnets commonly show compositional zoning, the choice of composition within a zoned garnet to retrieve peak metamorphic conditions requires consideration of its diffusion kinetic properties (Dasgupta et al. 2004, 2009), as does the issue of whether the peak condition is at all preserved in the compositional property of a garnet of a given grain size (e.g., Spear 1991; Ganguly and Tirone 1999; Tirone and Ganguly 2010). Diffusion kinetic modeling of the major-element compositional zonings of garnets leads to important constraints on the time scales of metamorphic processes such as heating and cooling rates (e.g., Florence and Spear 1993; Ganguly et al. 2000; Faryad and Chakraborty 2005; Augue and Baxter 2007), from which one may infer the burial and exhumation rates, respectively (e.g., Ganguly et al. 2000; Faryad and Chakraborty 2005), and time scales of deformation (Camacho et al. 2009). In addition, the presence of garnet in the source region of a basaltic magma imparts a characteristic signature, often referred to as the “garnet signature,” to its rare earth element (REE) pattern. In addition to providing an important constraint on the depth of the source region of a basaltic magma, since garnet is stable below ~50 km depth in the Earth’s interior (e.g., Saxena and Eriksson 1983), the REE pattern of basaltic magma with “garnet signature” is often used to infer …
SubspaceEM: A fast maximum-a-posteriori algorithm for cryo-EM single particle reconstruction.

Abstract Single particle reconstruction methods based on the maximum-likelihood principle and the expectation–maximization (E–M) algorithm are popular because of their ability to produce high resolution structures. However, these algorithms are computationally very expensive, requiring a network of computational servers. To overcome this computational bottleneck, we propose a new mathematical framework for accelerating maximum-likelihood reconstructions. The speedup is by orders of magnitude and the proposed algorithm produces similar quality reconstructions compared to the standard maximum-likelihood formulation. Our approach uses subspace approximations of the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) data and projection images, greatly reducing the number of image transformations and comparisons that are computed. Experiments using simulated and actual cryo-EM data show that speedup in overall execution time compared to traditional maximum-likelihood reconstruction reaches factors of over 300.
Predicting effective drug concentrations for individual patients : Determinants of pharmacodynamic variability

Variability in the relationship between pharmacological effect intensity and drug concentration (pharmacodynamics) is pronounced, usually exceeding pharmacokinetic variability. Whereas interindividual differences are large, intra-individual differences are much smaller, unless the individual experiences certain pathophysiological changes such as deterioration of renal function or progression of a chronic disease (for example, Parkinson's disease). Failure to appreciate the magnitude of interindividual variability in the pharmacodynamics of a drug can compromise fixed dose clinical trial outcomes, making the drug appear less effective or more toxic. In the face of pharmacodynamic variability it becomes important to identify useful predictors (covariates) of pharmacodynamic individuality to facilitate individually optimised pharmacotherapy. This requires clinical trial designs that incorporate extensive patient profiling, well beyond the usual short list of demographics (such as age, gender, race, bodyweight and smoking habits). In searching for predictors, it is helpful to appreciate the factors that may account for interindividual differences in the relationship between pharmacological effect intensity and drug concentration in plasma or other appropriate fluid. They include receptor density and affinity, the formation and elimination kinetics of endogenous ligands (such as the enkephalins), postreceptor transduction processes, homeostatic responses and the kinetic characteristics of transporters involved in drug transfer between fluids of distribution and the biophase. Correction of drug concentrations in plasma for protein binding, consideration of active and interactive metabolites, stereospecific assays and attention to drug distribution disequilibria are essential for successful identification of factors affecting pharmacodynamic variability. Pharmaceutical delivery systems (the 'hardware') must be combined with guidance for individualising drug dosage (the 'software' or user's manual) to provide for optimal and cost-effective pharmacotherapy.
Radiation-induced coronary artery disease: a second survivorship challenge?

10.2217/FON.15.121 © 2015 Future Medicine Ltd The role of adjuvant mediastinal radiation (RT) in improving disease-free survival in Hodgkin’s disease and breast cancer (BC) is well known. However, this survival advantage is accompanied by the late cardiac sequelae of radiation. Radiationinduced coronary artery disease (RICAD) is a challenging clinical entity and a major contributor to cardiovascular (CV) mortality in cancer survivors. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology, surveillance and management challenges of RICAD.
Erratum to: Scale-Dependent Feedbacks Between Patch Size and Plant Reproduction in Desert Grassland

USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range and Jornada Basin LTER, MSC 3JER, Box 30003, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA; Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA; U.S. Geological Survey Southwest Biological Science Center, 2290 SW Resource Blvd, Moab, Utah 84532, USA; Present address: Department of Animal and Range Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, USA
Soft X-Ray Absorption Microscopy of Surfaces with Synchrotron Radiation

As a spectroscopic technique, x-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) of core-levels using synchrotron radiation is in wide-spread use for the determination of the molecular composition of solid surfaces. A common detection method measures the yield of secondary electrons, which is proportional to the x-ray absorption coefficient for sufficiently high photon energy. In the experiments reported here, we show how the secondary electrons emitted as a result of photoabsorption can be used to generate a magnified image of the sample surface, with fundamental spatial limits determined by the deBroglie wavelength of the emitted electrons. Contrast in the secondary electron spatial distribution contains both topographical and chemical information about the sample surface. The use of tunable synchrotron radiation enables us to separate these contributions to the microscopic image, and to spatially resolve surface chemical composition as reflected in micro-XANES spectra.
Mapping sex offender activity spaces relative to crime using time-geographic methods

ABSTRACTActivity spaces describe the physical area typically encountered by an individual person during his or her routine daily activities. Activity spaces encompass a person’s anchor points – locations that are frequented regularly, such as home, work, school, and recreational areas – and the travel paths that connect them. Activity spaces of criminals are routinely mapped in order to better understand the spatial patterns and processes of crime at the individual level. Although many geographic information system-based methods have been used to map activity spaces over the years, potential path areas are becoming a preferred method since they incorporate both spatial and temporal data, as well as time budget and mobility constraints. This paper extends potential path areas for mapping activity spaces of criminals in two ways. First, time-geographic density estimation (TGDE) is used to estimate individual activity spaces using potential path areas that have associated probability densities. Second, activ...
Beauty Shown Not by Itself but Man's Activities ——Discussion on Aesthetic Pursuit of Liu Zongyuan's Travels

From three aspects, this paper probes the penetration of aesthetic main-body in Liu Zongyuan's Travels of Mountains and Waters. Firstly, The visual angle of aesthetic is presented perspective of space construction, collocation and painting of color. Secondly, the aesthetic mood expressed the writer's sentimental feelings in describing the landscape. Thirdly, the aesthetic practice presents Liu's discovery and creation of beauty. This impressive understanding of the shape of beauty is obtained in the course of historical choices.
Image-Guided Surgery for Skull Base Neoplasms Using the ISG Viewing Wand: Anatomic and Technical Considerations

Image-guided surgery of the cranial base requires a knowledge of both surgical anatomy and the technical aspects of the particular system being used. The authors report on their experience using the ISG Viewing Wand over the last two years, concentrating on the technical considerations for the use of the system and lessons learned. Image-guided surgical systems may well replace the current forms of intraoperative imaging used for anatomic orientation and localization and are considered a valuable addition to the armamentarium of the skull base surgeon.
Adolescents' future orientation and nonmedical use of prescription drugs.

Abstract Introduction How adolescents think about their future (i.e., future orientation) impacts their risk-taking behavior. The purpose of the present analysis was to explore whether future orientation (future planning, perceived risk to future goals, and positive future expectations) was associated with nonmedical use of stimulants and analgesics in a sample of high school students. Methods Information on future orientation and nonmedical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) were collected using a paper-and-pencil survey from a sample of 9th–12th grade students in a Midwestern school. Results Higher perceived risk to future goals and positive future expectations were associated with a lower likelihood of self-reported nonmedical use of stimulants (n = 250; OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.83; OR = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.47, respectively). Only higher perceived risk to future goals was associated with a lower likelihood of self-reported nonmedical use of analgesics (n = 250; OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.24, 0.68). In a follow-up analysis limited to students who endorsed alcohol or marijuana use, perceived risk to future goals remained associated with a lower likelihood of nonmedical use of stimulants and analgesics. Conclusions Results suggest that risk perception might be a salient protective factor against both nonmedical use of stimulants and analgesics. Overall, the differential impact of conceptualizations of future orientation might depend on the class of prescription drug used, demonstrating a need to consider prescription drugs individually in the development of future studies and interventions.