cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Discovering weaker genetic associations guided by known associations

The current understanding of the genetic basis of complex human diseases is that they are caused and affected by many common and rare genetic variants. A considerable number of the disease-associated variants have been identified by Genome Wide Association Studies, however, they can explain only a small proportion of heritability. One of the possible reasons for the missing heritability is that many undiscovered disease-causing variants are weakly associated with the disease. This can pose serious challenges to many statistical methods, which seems to be only capable of identifying disease-associated variants with relatively stronger coefficients. In order to help identify weaker variants, we propose a novel statistical method, Constrained Sparse multi-locus Linear Mixed Model (CS-LMM) that aims to uncover genetic variants of weaker associations by incorporating known associations as a prior knowledge in the model. Moreover, CS-LMM accounts for polygenic effects as well as corrects for complex relatednesses. Our simulation experiments show that CS-LMM outperforms other competing existing methods in various settings when the combinations of MAFs and coefficients reflect different scenarios in complex human diseases. We also apply our method to the GWAS data of alcoholism and Alzheimer’s disease and exploratively discover several SNPs. Many of these discoveries are supported through literature survey. Furthermore, our association results strengthen the belief in genetic links between alcoholism and Alzheimer’s disease.
BERT Based Multilingual Machine Comprehension in English and Hindi.

Multilingual Machine Comprehension (MMC) is a Question-Answering (QA) sub-task that involves quoting the answer for a question from a given snippet, where the question and the snippet can be in different languages. Recently released multilingual variant of BERT (m-BERT), pre-trained with 104 languages, has performed well in both zero-shot and fine-tuned settings for multilingual tasks; however, it has not been used for English-Hindi MMC yet. We, therefore, present in this article, our experiments with m-BERT for MMC in zero-shot, mono-lingual (e.g. Hindi Question-Hindi Snippet) and cross-lingual (e.g. English QuestionHindi Snippet) fine-tune setups. These model variants are evaluated on all possible multilingual settings and results are compared against the current state-of-the-art sequential QA system for these languages. Experiments show that m-BERT, with fine-tuning, improves performance on all evaluation settings across both the datasets used by the prior model, therefore establishing m-BERT based MMC as the new state-of-the-art for English and Hindi. We also publish our results on an extended version of the recently released XQuAD dataset, which we propose to use as the evaluation benchmark for future research.
Seasonal distributions of ocean particulate optical properties from spaceborne lidar measurements in Mediterranean and Black sea

Abstract Assessing the oceanic surface layer's optical properties through CALIOP has been one of the reasons of the extension of the CALIOP mission for 3 more years (2018–2020). This is the first work evaluating the potential use of CALIOP for ocean applications at regional scale in mid-latitude regions (i.e. Mediterranean, MED, and Black Sea, BS) and investigating the added information on ocean particles given by the column integrated depolarization ratio (δT) parameter. We implemented and refined a retrieval procedure to estimate this parameter at 1/4 degree of spatial resolution, comparing 7 years of CALIOP observations (2011–2017) to the corresponding Copernicus multi-sensor L3 ocean colour products of the surface particle backscattering coefficient (bbp) and chlorophyll-a concentration (Chl-a). This study pointed out that the current CALIOP sampling is inadequate to detect subtle day-night difference due to plankton diel variability for these basins. At a basin scale, δT covaries with bbp for bbp ≥ 0.0015 m−1. This is more evident for BS (R = 0.84) than for MED (R = 0.61). The analysis of seasonal distributions confirm this result for BS, where δT has a semi-annual cycle in very good agreement with bbp. In the MED, characterized by different trophic regimes, δT shows also some similarities with Chl-a annual cycle. The combined characterization in the MED bioregions of the annual patterns of bbp:Chl-a, δT:Chl-a and δT:bbp ratios suggested that δT parameter can provide valuable information about the non-sphericity and the size of ocean particles.
Targeted mutagenesis of the Arabidopsis GROWTH-REGULATING FACTOR (GRF) gene family suggests competition of multiplexed sgRNAs for Cas9 apoprotein

Abstract Genome editing in plants typically relies on T-DNA plasmids that are mobilized by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation to deliver the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery. Here, we introduce a series of CRISPR/Cas9 T-DNA vectors for minimal lab settings, such as in the classroom or citizen science projects. Spacer sequences targeting genes of interest can be inserted as annealed short oligonucleotides in a single straightforward cloning step. Fluorescent markers expressed in mature seeds enable reliable selection of transgenic as well as transgene-free individuals using a combination of inexpensive LED lamps and colored-glass alternative filters. Testing these tools on the Arabidopsis GROWTH-REGULATING FACTOR (GRF) gene family, we found that Cas9 expression from an EGG CELL1 (EC1) promoter resulted in tenfold lower mutation rates than expression from a UBIQUITIN10 (UBQ10) promoter. A collection of bona fide null mutations in all nine GRF genes could be established with little effort. Finally, we explored the effects of simultaneously targeting two, four and eight GRF genes on the rate of induced mutations at each target locus. Multiplexing caused strong interference effects: while mutation rates at some loci remained consistently high, mutation rates at other loci dropped dramatically with increasing number of single guide RNA species. Our results suggest potential detrimental genetic interaction between induced mutations as well as competition of CRISPR RNAs for a limiting amount of Cas9 apoprotein.
We need kernel interposition over the network dataplane

Kernel-bypass networking, which allows applications to circumvent the kernel and interface directly with NIC hardware, is one of the main tools for improving application network performance. However, allowing applications to circumvent the kernel makes it impossible to use tools (e.g., tcpdump) or impose policies (e.g., QoS and filters) that need to interpose on traffic sent by different applications running on a host. This makes maintainability and manageability a challenge for kernel-bypass applications. In response, we propose Kernel On-Path Interposition (KOPI), in which traditional kernel data-plane functionality is retained but implemented in a fully programmable SmartNIC. We hypothesize that KOPI can support the same tools and policies as the kernel stack while retaining the performance benefits of kernel bypass.
Cyber-Physical System Security of Surface Ships using Intelligent Constraints

Cyber-physical systems are vulnerable to attacks that can cause them to reach undesirable states. This paper provides a theoretical solution for increasing the resiliency of control systems through the use of a high-authority supervisor that monitors and regulates control signals sent to the actuator. The supervisor aims to determine the control signal limits that provide maximum freedom of operation while protecting the system. For this work, a cyber attack is assumed to overwrite the signal to the actuator with Gaussian noise. This assumption permits the propagation of a state covariance matrix through time. Projecting the state covariance matrix on the state space reveals a confidence ellipse that approximates the reachable set. The standard deviation is found so that the confidence ellipse is tangential to the danger area in the state space. The process is applied to ship dynamics where an ellipse in the state space is transformed to an arc in the plane of motion. The technique is validated through the simulation of a ship traveling through a narrow channel while under the influence of a cyber attack.
Anomalous channel between aorta and right ventricle; report of a case.

The occurrence of a congenital vascular tract between the left posterior aortic sinus of Valsalva and the right ventricle in a 13 month old boy is reported. A group of cardiovascular anomalies which clinically resemble a patent ductus arteriosus is discussed, and the help which cardiac catheterization may give in confirming the diagnosis is indicated.
Intelligent Tutoring with Dumb Software

Recent work in the learning sciences seeks to apply theories from education, artificial intelligence, and cognitive psychology to the design of intelligent instructional systems. This research has yielded a number of promising approaches which have the potential to effect major change in how technology is used to deliver instruction (Pea & Gomez, 1991, in press; Soloway, 1991). When viewed from the perspective of real-world computer-based training, however, the application of such principles is seen as being far off. Part of this perception stems from the limited impact "intelligent" tutors have had on the computer-based instruction community, in part because of the constraints imposed by real-world training needs (e.g. use of existing PCs and authoring languages, quick development times, etc.). For example, we recently helped design a computer-based version of a 40-hour instructor-led course on business practices. The project's sponsor required software which would run on existing machines (with the addition of DVI) and which would be implemented in an authoring system that had already been purchased, within a delivery cycle of eight months. This project provided us the opportunity to bridge the gap between interesting research approaches and deliverable instructional systems. The reality of these constraints seemed at first to rule out our trying to make the teaching program intelligent. M-grounded tutoring systems (most of which remain primarily research vehicles) employ robust knowledge representations, learner models, natural language, etc. Applying these techniques requires intensive effort at best, and in fact such approaches are often problematic and remain unsolved. Our approach is to adopt a functionalist stance, by considering the goals such techniques serve. It is our belief that whatever intelligence an instructional program can be said to possess lies in its performance (i.e. how effectively it teaches) more than in the set of AI techniques which it embodies) We have, however, adapted some specific ideas from the ITS tradition to fit our approach to delivering effective instruction, given present techniques, equipment, and time constraints. This approach is captured in two principles and the strategies we employ in following those principles, as summarized in Table 1.
Impact of North Brazil Current rings on local circulation and coral reef fish recruitment to Barbados, West Indies

Abstract Early observations of the flow environment around the island of Barbados indicated frequent occurrence of strong current reversals associated with surface salinity fronts. Higher resolution spatial and temporal measurements of the flow regime in 1996 and 1997 provided a comprehensive view of the local surface circulation (0-100 m), revealing that external forcing by North Brazil Current (NBC) rings plays a dominant role in the near-field flow variability surrounding the island. NBC ring forcing had comparable effects on the velocity field during both years, indicating that the ring structure was retained while interacting with topography. In the present study, the interaction of NBC rings with coastal flow dynamics and the biological response of the system as measured by recruitment of coral reef fishes is examined. Our observations show that NBC rings can remain quite coherent as they pass the Tobago-Barbados ridge. Further, the flow direction and associated residence time in the vicinity of the island appear to vary depending on the orientation of the rings as they collide with the island. Concurrent biological samples revealed complex responses to the presence of rings in that during some of the events, larval fishes appeared to be rapidly advected away, resulting in a failure of larval settlement, whereas under other conditions larval retention was enhanced and was followed by a settlement pulse. Impingement by a ring did not alter the concentration of water column chlorophyll a (Chl a ), but it did influence the depth of the Chl a maximum. Simultaneous changes were observed in the vertical distribution of fish larvae. Larval fish encountering ring waters exhibited reduced growth rates and longer larval periods, both potentially reducing survival and, ultimately, recruitment success. Overall, results demonstrate that NBC rings interfere with the islandscale flow dynamics around Barbados and interject considerable variability in the local recruitment signal of coral reef fishes.
Mechanical Stretch Alters the Actin Cytoskeletal Network and Signal Transduction in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells

Purpose Human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cells were mechanically stretched in vitro as a potential model for the distension of this tissue that can occur in vivo in response to increased pressure gradients. Cell morphology and certain components of the signal transduction pathways, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) pathways, were evaluated for stretch-induced alterations. Methods Primary HTM cells grown in tissue culture were subjected to a mechanical stretch lasting from 10 seconds to 4 days. The actin cytoskeletal network was visualized by phalloidin staining. Proteins phosphorylated on their tyrosine residues were isolated using an immunoaffinity system and were analyzed by gel electrophoresis and immunostaining. Mitogen-activated protein kinase activity was evaluated using an in-gel assay system, and the mRNA levels of c-fos and c-jun were determined by quantitation of competitive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In addition, the amount of c-Fos protein was estimated by chemiluminescent immunoblot analysis. Results On stretching, the HTM cells elongated but regained their normal morphologic characteristics within 24 hours. Unstretched HTM cells displayed a diffuse F-actin microfilament network, whereas stretched cells exhibited complex geodesic patterns. Ten seconds after stretching began, the level of tyrosine phosphorylation on the six major phosphoproteins significantly decreased between 80% and 100%, whereas the level of paxillin tyrosine phosphorylation significantly increased 39%. Stretching caused MAPK activity and the amount of mRNA and protein of the immediate-early gene c-fos to decrease more than 60% within 2 minutes, but within 15 to 30 minutes they increased above or equivalent to normal levels. The level of c-jun mRNA was unchanged by stretching. Conclusions In response to a mechanical stretch, major cytoskeletal alterations occur in HTM cells, which involve changes in the levels of tyrosine phosphorylation. Mechanotransduction (signal transduction by mechanical stimulation) through the MAPK signaling pathway was significantly depressed immediately after stretching; however, the JNK pathway appeared to be unaffected. The data suggest that HTM cells adapt to mechanical stress by altering the cytoskeletal network and signaling cascades.
Effecting frequency shifts with a DFT filterbank

It is often required to apply a shift in frequency to the channelised data within a DFT filterbank. An example application is the frequency domain implementation of the cyclic Wiener filter. A common approach is to rotate the transform through an appropriate number of bins, but this is only accurate if the frequency shift is a multiple of the bin width. A better approach is to combine the bin rotation with an approximate fine shift. The exact solution is found for an arbitrary DFT filterbank and novel, computationally efficient approximations to this are derived and compared.
Laboratory maintenance of Streptomyces species.

This unit includes general protocols for the laboratory maintenance of Streptomyces species, including growth in liquid media, growth on solid agar, and short and long-term storage. Considerations for the handling of Streptomyces species and the morphology of the bacteria are also reviewed.
Recursive cosmopolitization: Argentina and the global Human Rights Regime

This paper illustrates how varieties of cosmopolitanism are shaped through a mutually constitutive set of cultural dispositions and institutional practices that emerge at the interstices of global human right norms and local legal practices. Converging pressures of ‘cosmopolitan imperatives’ and the multiplicity of particularized manifestations are co-evolving in the context of intercrossings during which distinctive cosmopolitanisms are established. This complex relationship of global normative expectations and their local appropriations is elucidated through the dynamic of recursive cosmopolitization. Suggesting that, local problems are resolved with recourse to global prescriptions while local solutions are inscribed in international institutions consolidating the global Human Rights Regime. The Argentinean case carries conceptual and empirical weight as it underscores the recursivity of cosmopolitization by calibrating the tensions of universalism and particularism at the intersection of global, national and regional scales. Argentina is a paradigmatic instantiation for how cosmopolitanism can emanate in the periphery as local problems are globalized. This, in turn, has resulted in the institutionalization of a global Human Rights Regime which exercises normative and political–legal pressures on how states legitimately deal with human rights abuses. It is this cosmopolitan balance, rather than presuppositions of universalistic exogenous pressures or particularistic national exceptions, which is shaping the cultural and political relevance of human rights norms.
Calcium influx alters actin bundle dynamics and retrograde flow in Helisoma growth cones.

The ability of calcium (Ca2+) to effect changes in growth cone motility requires remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. To understand the mechanisms involved, we evaluated the effect of elevated intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) on actin bundle dynamics, organization, and retrograde flow in the large growth cones of identified Helisoma neurons. Depolarization with 15 mm KCl (high K+) for 30 min caused a rapid and sustained increase in [Ca2+]i and resulted in longer filopodia, shorter actin ribs, and a decrease in lamellipodia width. Time-lapse microscopy revealed that increasing [Ca2+]i affected actin bundle dynamics differently at the proximal and distal ends. Filopodial lengthening resulted from assembly-driven elongation of actin bundles whereas actin rib shortening resulted from a distal shift in the location of breakage. Buckling of ribs occurred before breakage, suggesting nonuniform forces were applied to ribs before shortening. Calcium (Ca2+) influx also resulted in a decrease in density of F-actin in bundles, as determined by contrast changes in ribs imaged by differential interference contrast microscopy and fluorescent intensity changes in rhodamine-labeled ribs. The velocity of retrograde flow decreased by 50% after elevation of [Ca2+]i. However, no significant change in retrograde flow occurred when the majority of changes in actin bundles were blocked by phalloidin. This suggests that inhibition of retrograde flow resulted from Ca2+-induced changes in the actin cytoskeleton. These results implicate Ca2+ as a regulator of actin dynamics and, as such, provide a mechanism by which Ca2+ can influence growth cone motility and behavior.
Polysaccharide-g-polystyrene copolymers by persulfate initiation: preparation and properties

This paper describes the preparation of starch-g-polystyrene and cellulose-g-polystyrene by a simple method that involves heating semisolid mixtures composed of the polysaccharide, styrene, and an aqueous solution of potassium persulfate. The reproducibility of these polymerizations and the extrusion processing of starch-g-polystyrene (after removal of a portion of the starch by hydrolysis) is also described.
Case study in disaster relief: A descriptive analysis of agency partnerships in the aftermath of the January 12th, 2010 Haitian earthquake

This study analyzes the disaster response and recovery efforts following the January 12th, 2010 Haitian earthquake through the eyes of 18 different relief agencies. Focusing on the formation and maintenance of partnerships after the catastrophic earthquake, this paper explores the concepts of cooperation, mutual understanding, and connectivity among agencies responding to the earthquake. The case study is based on results from interviews and interactions with 18 agencies during a month-long trip to Haiti in the summer of 2010. Of the agencies interviewed, it was found that agencies that had no partnerships or presence in Haiti prior to the earthquake were most likely to build new clinics, orphanages, and schools. Additionally, we found that agencies were more likely to develop new partnerships from new contacts rather than dormant contacts. By studying the partnerships between local and international agencies, it was found that their relationships were less stable than partnerships between international agencies. This study hopes to increase understanding and applicability of research in disaster relief networks by providing a new perspective into how agencies work together.
Bristol Bay Wild Salmon, Pebble Mine, and Intractable Conflict: Lessons for Environmental Studies and Sciences

In fall 2013, Juliet Eilperin of the Washington Post tabbed a fight in Alaska over the proposed Pebble Mine as “the most important environmental decision you've never heard of.”1 Shortly after that...
Isolation and Characterization of the Gene Encoding Rat Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Peptide

Abstract The rat glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) gene has been isolated and characterized. The gene spans approximately 8.2 kilobase pairs (kb) and the GIP mRNA (0.8 kb) is encoded by six exons. The 42 amino acid hormone is encoded by exons 3 and 4. The exon-intron organization of the rat GIP gene revealed that the splice acceptor site for intron 2 is 24 nucleotides downstream compared to the comparable splice acceptor site in the human gene. This intron sliding results in an 8 amino acid deletion in the amino terminal extension of the prepropeptide. Primer extention analysis and RNase protection assay demonstrated the existence of multiple closely spaced sites for transcriptional initiation. Both the 5′-flanking region and intron 1 contain TATA and CCAAT boxes consistent with initiation of gene transcription, although a TATA box in intron 1 is functionally inactive in adult rats in spite of its reasonable location.
Go (Home), Diego, Go!: Representation and Intentionality in Bilingual Television and Theatre for Youth in the United States

The United States is erupting over issues surrounding immigration and acculturation. Those who are neither “white” nor native English-speaking in the United States are lumped into a category of “other.” Young “others” are caught in this war and are forced to consider how they fit into the so-called national identity. This marginalization is a challenge for all who are “other” in the United States and is even more stupefying for children. Given the national tension and fear regarding immigration leading to the 2006 $1 billion Congress authorization of an illegal-immigrant protection fence along the United States–Mexico border, this article examines the goals and outcomes of theatrical productions that claim to celebrate bilingualism and multiculturalism. Through an analysis of Go, Diego, Go Live! and other recently staged Nickelodeon television shows featuring “other” child characters, the article further explores questions such as: How does a country reconcile its hostility toward immigration with its des...
Non-invasive Imaging Through a Scattering Wall

! Antonio M. Caravaca-Aguirre, Donald B. Conkey, Jacob D. Dove, Hengyi Ju, Todd W. Murray and Rafael Piestun 1Department of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, 80309, USA 2Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, 80309, USA ! We investigate the problem of optical non-invasively imaging through scattering media without the use of the so-called memory effect, namely allowing for thick and highly scattering obstacles. A photoacoustic (PA) signal, consisting of the integration of PA emissions from multiple speckle grains, is used as optimization feedback for focusing through such a scattering material. We use a liquid-crystal spatial light modulator (LC-SLM) to modulate the input wavefront and optimize the PA response using a genetic algorithm [1]. The spatially non-uniform sensitivity of an ultrasound transducer to the PA emission from multiple speckles results in the enhancement of a single speckle creating a sub-acoustic optical focus [2]. The optical focus is used to reconstruct sub-acoustic resolution images of a bee wing scanned behind a diffusing wall. Figure 1 compares the PA image under three different illuminations: uniform illumination (Fig. 1a) where the diffuser is removed, random speckle illumination where a random phase is projected onto the SLM (Fig. 1b), and optimized illumination (Fig. 1c). After optimization, the signal strength improved by a factor of 10 versus the random speckle field revealing interesting complex structure and significant resolution and signal improvement. Figure 1c shows that even the bee wing hairs are individually resolved. !
A Simulation Framework for Robotic System Design

This paper proposes a framework for the physically based modeling of robotic systems. The framework focuses on integrating a mechanical engineering assembly model with an electrical engineering controller model in a co-simulation. The simulated results can be used for the evaluation of robotic system designs. This paper surveys existing algorithms and software packages that could be used to implement the framework. The framework is illustrated using a biologically inspired robot as a case-study.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Spatial Clustering of HIV Prevalence in Atlanta, Georgia and Population Characteristics Associated with Case Concentrations

We assessed prevalent HIV cases in Atlanta to examine case distribution trends and population characteristics at the census tract level that may be associated with clustering effects. We calculated cluster characteristics (area and internal HIV prevalence) via Kuldorff's spatial scan method. Subsequent logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze sociodemographics associated with inclusion in a cluster. Organizations offering voluntary HIV testing and counseling services were identified and we assessed average travel time to access these services. One large cluster centralized in downtown Atlanta was identified that contains 60% of prevalent HIV cases. The prevalence rate within the cluster was 1.34% compared to 0.32% outside the cluster. Clustered tracts were associated with higher levels of poverty (OR = 1.19), lower density of multi-racial residents (OR = 1.85), injection drug use (OR = 1.99), men having sex with men (OR = 3.01), and men having sex with men and IV drug use (OR = 1.6). Forty-two percent (N = 11) of identified HIV service providers in Atlanta are located in the cluster with an average travel time of 13 minutes via car to access these services (SD = 9.24). The HIV epidemic in Atlanta is concentrated in one large cluster characterized by poverty, men who have sex with men (MSM), and IV drug usage. Prevention efforts targeted to the population living in this area as well as efforts to address the specific needs of these populations may be most beneficial in curtailing the epidemic within the identified cluster.
Construction and evaluation of a kinetic scheme for RecA‐mediated DNA strand exchange

The Escherichia coli RecA protein is the prototype of a class of proteins playing a central role in genomic repair and recombination in all organisms. The unresolved mechanistic strategy by which RecA aligns a single strand of DNA with a duplex DNA and mediates a DNA strand switch is central to understanding its recombinational activities. Toward a molecular-level understanding of RecA-mediated DNA strand exchange, we explored its mechanism using oligonucleotide substrates and the intrinsic fluorescence of 6-methylisoxanthopterin (6MI). Steady- and presteady-state spectrofluorometric data demonstrate that the reaction proceeds via a sequential four-step mechanism comprising a rapid, bimolecular association step followed by three slower unimolecular steps. Previous authors have proposed multistep mechanisms involving two or three steps. Careful analysis of the differences among the experimental systems revealed a previously undiscovered intermediate (N1) whose formation may be crucial in the kinetic discrimination of homologous and heterologous sequences. This observation has important implications for probing the fastest events in DNA strand exchange using 6MI to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms of recombination and recombinational repair.
Small bone-building fragments of parathyroid hormone: new therapeutic agents for osteoporosis

The brittle, fracture-prone bones of an osteoporotic postmenopausal woman are the products of an excessive uncompensated resorption of trabecular bone by osteoclasts. Osteoporosis is currently treated with the osteoclast suppressors calcitonin, bisphosphonates, or oestrogen, which stop further bone resorption without stimulating new bone growth. Here, James Whitfield and Paul Morley review the growing evidence that small adenylate cyclase-stimulating fragments of the parathyroid hormone are promising therapeutic agents for osteoporosis that potently stimulate osteoblasts to make mechanically strong or supranormally strong bone.
An object-oriented extension of XML for autonomous web applications

While the idea of extending XML to include object-oriented features has been gaining popularity in general, the potential of inheritance in document design has not been well recognized in contemporary research. In this paper we demonstrate that XML with dynamic inheritance aids better document designs and decreased management overheads and support increased autonomy. As an extended application, we point out that dynamic inheritance also helps effective automated web portal and ontology designs.We present an object-oriented extension to the language of XML to include dynamic inheritance and describe a middle layer that implements our system. We explain our system with several practical examples.
Measurement of health-related quality of life in patients with colon and rectal disease

Abstract Quality of life is important outcome for clinical trials. Many physicians are relatively unfamiliar with the methodology used in the assessment of quality of life. This first portion of this article will briefly outline the techniques currently available to measure quality of life. The second portion of this article reviews the limited amount of literature available examining quality of life outcomes for patients with rectal cancer. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Software design representation: Analysis and Improvements

This paper analyses in detail the design representation described in the preceding paper. Two sets of dimensions are defined and both representations-metacode and decision statements- are evaluated against them. Suggestions for improving design representations, both these and in general, are presented.
A full-field residual stress estimation scheme for fitness-for-service assessment of pipe girth welds: Part I - Identification of key parameters

Abstract In this two part series of papers, a recent comprehensive investigation of residual stress distributions in pipe and vessel girth welds is presented, covering component wall thickness from 6.35 mm (1/4″) to 254 mm (10″), radius to wall thickness ratio from 2 to 100, weld preparation from single “V” to double “V” to narrow-gap welds, and welding linear heating input from low (300 J/mm) to high (7,500 J/mm). Through the use of a residual stress decomposition technique, two key parameters that control through-thickness residual stress distributions in terms of their membrane and bending content have been identified by examining a large number of parametric residual stress analysis cases. One is component radius to wall thickness ratio (r/t) and the other is a characteristic heat input ( Q ˆ ) having a unit of J/mm3. With these two parameters, a unified functional form for representing through-thickness residual stress profiles, along with its solution scheme, is proposed and demonstrated in this paper (Part I) for applications in weld region. A shell theory based analytical procedure is then introduced in Part II for estimating through-thickness residual stress profile at any axial distance away from weld regime. The effectiveness of the analytical estimation procedure is then confirmed by finite element residual stress solutions on a large number of component configurations and welding conditions.
Little magazine interview index

Interviews in little magazines continue to be important primary sources of information on writers and their works. The number of interviews is steadily increasing--especially the number of translations of interviews conducted in languages other than English. This third annual index includes citations from magazine issues received in the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections of the University of Wisconsin-Madison during 1986. Photocopies are generally available for a nominal fee by contacting the Interlibrary Loan Department of Memorial Library (728 State St., Madison, WI 53706). The International Directory of Little Magazines & Small Presses remains the best single source for publications information on periodicals listed below; however, a list of publishers mentioned here but not in the latest edition of the directory precedes the index.
A Matter of Distinction: Candidate Polarization and Information Processing in Election Campaigns

Because Republican and Democratic elites have polarized in recent decades, American voters increasingly face choices between candidates who hold divergent policy positions. Such a development has potential implications for the way voters process information during campaigns and choose between candidates on election day. Drawing on research in political psychology and using a nationally representative survey-experiment, we argue and find that levels of candidate polarization—the convergence or divergence of candidates’ issue positions—affect voter information consumption, recall of campaign information, and the balance of on-line and memory-based processing employed in the vote decision. In showing that voters faced with more similar candidates rely more heavily on memory-based processing, we provide further support for hybrid models of political information processing and suggest that candidate polarization has consequences for voter attitude strength and resistance to persuasion.
Self-administration of the isomers of pentobarbital and secobarbital by Rhesus monkeys

Abstract Previous studies have shown that the isomers of pentobarbital and secobarbital have behavioral effects that are qualitatively similar to those of the racemic mixture, but that the S-(−) isomers are more potent than the R-(+) isomers. The present study was designed to compare the reinforcing effects of the isomers of these compounds to those of the racemic mixtures in monkeys experienced in the intravenous self-administration of barbiturates. Rhesus monkeys (N=3) were prepared with indwelling intravenous catheters and allowed to self-administer racemic pentobarbital in 1-hour sessions under a fixed ratio 5 schedule. When responding was stable, various doses of (+,−) pentobarbital, (+,−) secobarbital and single doses of both isomers of these compounds were substituted for the baseline drug in a mixed order. All of the compounds functioned as positive reinforcers in all monkeys. R-(+) isomers were self-administered at higher rates than the racemic mixtures which were self-administered at higher rates than the S-(−) isomers. The results demonstrate that both isomers of these barbiturates can function as positive reinforcers.
Erratum to "Management of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in the elderly: Review and recommendations" [J. Geriatr. Oncol. 3 (2012) 265-272]

Alva Weir⁎, Apar Kishor Ganti , Mollie deShazo, Sandeep Samant, Arti Hurria Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, TN, USA Veterans Affairs Medical Center-Nebraska, Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE, USA Department of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, USA Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA Cancer and Aging Research Program, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
Reliability and validity of grip and pinch strength evaluations

Twenty-seven college women participated in a study to evaluate the reliability and validity of four tests of hand strength: grip, palmar pinch, key pinch, and tip pinch. Standardized positioning and instructions were followed. The results showed very high inter-rater reliability. Test-retest reliability was highest in all tests when the mean of three trials was used. Lower correlations were shown when one trial or the highest score of three trials were utilized. The Jamar dynamometer by Asimow Engineering and the pinch gauge by B&L Engineering demonstrated the highest accuracy of the instruments tested.
Factors that Affect the Accuracy of Raman Shift Measurements on Multichannel Spectrometers

Raman shift measurements have been made on cyclohexane, by using linear interpolation between bracketing neon line positions to establish Raman band wavelengths. Factors that affect the precision of these measurements have been examined in detail. These include change of slit width, grating line spacing, neon line intensity, distance of separation of neon lines, and effects of small grating movements. All these have some effect, but the last factor is particularly important. Techniques that give standard deviations of 0.03 cm-1 when measurements are made without moving the grating are degraded by about an order of magnitude when the grating is moved. This result is attributed to adventitious partitioning of signal power between adjacent detector elements. By deliberately moving the grating a small amount between otherwise replicate measurements, one can control this effect. Values for the Raman shifts for eleven cyclohexane bands, based on approximately 800 Raman spectra and an equal number of neon emission spectra, are presented. The values are compared with previous measurements. They are generally within the +/- sigma range of the earlier values, but the standard deviations of these results are about an order of magnitude smaller.
Some Consequences of Refusing to Participate in Peer Review

The proliferation of journals has had an unexpected side effect: it is now difficult to find qualified reviewers willing to devote the time necessary for assessing journal contributions. Although it is difficult to find data, most scientists involved in the academic world have their inboxes deluged with a cornucopia of invitations to submit to new journals, speak at conferences (as a keynote, for sure!), and review articles. New online journals (such as ours) strive to publish the finest and most relevant work for our readers while at the same time maintaining rapid “turn around times” for authors. This requires that a complex system function flawlessly. But, there are some aspects of the system that are creaky; some are broken entirely.
Notes from the Underground: Unofficial Literacy in One Sixth Grade

This study explores the "literacy events" that occurred in one sixth-grade classroom. In particular, the study focuses on the "unofficial" uses of literacy that are part of the underground classroom culture of the students. Research methods used included participant-observation, open-ended interviews, and samples of the children's writing. An analysis of the nonacademic writing of the children revealed that they use writing to present themselves, to share, and to order. Much learning is going on in this unofficial capacity, some clearly exceeding adult expectations. CULTURE, COMMUNICATION, LITERACY, CLASSROOM
Effects in vitro and in vivo of synthetic phosphatidate phosphatase inhibitors.

Abstract 1. 1. The non-hydrolyzable phosphatidate analogs 2-hexadecoxy-3-octadecoxy-propylphosphonate and 2-octadecyleicosylphosphonate inhibit solubilized pig kidney phosphatidate phosphatase ( l -α-phosphatidate phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.4), but less effectively than they inhibit the particulate enzyme. Dihexadecyl phosphate acts as a fairly good substrate for the soluble enzyme. 2. 2. The action of 2-hexadecoxy-3-octadecoxypropylphosphonate when administered intraperitoneally to mice was studied. The major effect is to induce a large but transient and reversible increase in liver triglycerides, reaching a maximum at about 6 h after administration and disappearing within a few days. This is accompanied by histological evidence of regenerative activity but not of distinct fatty changes in the livers. 3. 3. 2-Hexadecoxy-3-octadecoxypropylphosphonate inhibits the stimulatory action of liver supernatant fractions on palmitate or oleate incorporation into triglycerides by microsomal fractions, supporting the view that the stimulatory activity is due to a phosphatidate phosphatase present in the supernatant.
Blending geometry with numerical computation: Charts for the enthalpy, absolute entropy, and flow exergy of 12 gases at low pressures

This note contains a set of charts for the enthalpy change function Δh(T), the absolute entropy at atmospheric pressure s°(T), and the flow exergy at atmospheric pressure e°x(T) of 12 gases in the ideal-gas limit. The gases considered are CO, CO2, H, H2, H2O, N, N2, NO, NO2, O, O2 and OH. These charts and the ideal-gas model can be used to calculate the enthalpy h(T), absolute entropy s(T,P) and flow energy ex(T,P) of the same gases.
Untangling the gender gap in symbolic racist attitudes among white Americans

While the gender gap in voting has important political implications for understanding contemporary American politics, and continues to be a focus of a great deal of research, gender gaps in policy areas have also been identified and these gender gaps also have dramatic political implications, particularly in the context of understanding attitudes about race. Despite the advances in our understanding of the gender gap in voting, fewer investigations have explored potential gender differences in racial attitudes. The lack of research into racial attitudes among women and men is surprising in light of the election and re-election of President Obama and the continued “racialization” of many national political issues. In fact, few studies have explored contemporary differences between women and men in levels of symbolic racism. Moreover, among the existing studies of possible gender gaps in racial attitudes, the role of perceived discrimination is surprisingly absent. In this investigation, potential differenc...
A novel assay for examining the molecular reactions at the eukaryotic replication fork: activities of replication protein A required during elongation

Studies to elucidate the reactions that occur at the eukaryotic replication fork have been limited by the model systems available. We have established a method for isolating and characterizing Simian Virus 40 (SV40) replication complexes. SV40 rolling circle complexes are isolated using paramagnetic beads and then incubated under replication conditions to obtain continued elongation. In rolling circle replication, the normal mechanism for termination of SV40 replication does not occur and the elongation phase of replication is prolonged. Thus, using this assay system, elongation phase reactions can be examined in the absence of initiation or termination. We show that the protein requirements for elongation of SV40 rolling circles are equivalent to complete SV40 replication reactions. The DNA produced by SV40 rolling circles is double-stranded, unmethylated and with a much longer length than the template DNA. These properties are similar to those of physiological replication forks. We show that proteins associated with the isolated rolling circles, including SV40 T antigen, DNA polymerase alpha, replication protein A (RPA) and RF-C, are necessary for continued DNA synthesis. PCNA is also required but is not associated with the isolated complexes. We present evidence suggesting that synthesis of the leading and lagging strands are co-ordinated in SV40 rolling circle replication. We have used this system to show that both RPA-protein and RPA-DNA interactions are important for RPA's function in elongation.
Determination of leucine flux in vivo by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry utilizing stable isotopes for trace and internal standard

A simple and reliable method is described for the determination of leucine flux in vivo using two stable isotopes of leucine and gas chromatography—mass spectrometry (GCMS). [6,6,6-2H3]Leucine is administered as a primed-dose constant infusion in vivo and dl-[2H7]leucine is added to plasma as an internal standard. Plasma leucine concentration and moles per cent enrichment of [2H3]leucine can be determined simultaneously by GCMS and selected ion monitoring. Leucine flux calculated from the [6,6,6-2H3]leucine data was nearly identical to that obtained with l-[U-14C]leucine in dogs. This method is readily applicable to the study of leucine metabolism in humans of all ages and laboratory animals.
The in vitro uptake and distribution of 3H‐fucose and 3H‐mannose in the crayfish retina: A light and electron microscope autoradiographic study

The in vitro uptake and distribution of 3H-fucose and 3H-mannose in the crayfish retina was studied using light and electron microscope autoradiography. Animals maintained on a 12:12 light-dark (L-D) cycle were incubated for 8 hr in the light beginning at their normal light-onset time. Both sugars were incorporated into components of the rhabdom microvillous membrane, as indicated by the progressive increase in labeling of this structure during the incubation period. Fucose was initially concentrated in the Golgi apparatus of the receptor cells, where distinct grain clusters were seen after 15-min incubation in the light. A similar concentration of fucose was also seen in the accessory reflecting pigment cells, as well as neurons and glia of the lamina ganglionaris. After 1 hr and longer, the eighth cell rhabdomere and the distal portion of the main rhabdom appeared more heavily labeled than the proximal region of the rhabdom. With mannose, a more diffuse cytoplasmic label was observed, and there was no evidence of heavy Golgi labeling. The diffuse label in the cytoplasm with mannose was followed by a general increase in labeling over the rhabdom, which was more uniform in comparison with fucose. The pattern of labeling seen in the crayfish photoreceptor with these two sugars is similar to that reported in the vertebrate photoreceptor. The progressive labeling of the rhabdom during the time when membrane loss is also taking place suggests that both aspects of the renewal process in the crayfish occur simultaneously during the period of the light cycle examined. It is proposed that the labeling pattern represents the incorporation of these sugars into glycoproteins present in the microvillous membrane and that one or both of these sugars may be components of the photopigment in these membranes.