cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Negative Self-Perceptions and Sexual Risk Behavior Among Heterosexual Methamphetamine Users

This research examined the relationship between negative self-perceptions and sexual risk behavior in a sample of 156 heterosexually identified, methamphetamine users from San Diego, California. The Beck Depression Inventory and the Self Esteem Rating Scale, respectively, were used to assess depression and negative self-perceptions. Measures of sexual risk behavior and methamphetamine use were developed specifically for this research. Data were gathered in 2001-2002. Participants were primarily male (76%), Caucasian (56%), never married (51%), and unemployed (73%), with a mean age of 39.1 years. Participants with high levels of negative self-perceptions evidenced the greatest degree of sexual risk behavior, including significantly more unprotected vaginal sex and a larger number of sexual partners as compared to individuals with low levels of negative self-perceptions. In cross-sectional analyses, negative self-perceptions predicted intensity of methamphetamine use and depressive symptoms. However, neither of these variables were found to mediate the relationship between negative self-perceptions and sexual risk behavior. Findings are discussed in relation to the need for further research into the role of negative self-perceptions as a determinant of sexual risk behavior among methamphetamine users.
Ion-surface interaction potentials from alkali-ion-metal scattering below 500 eV.

Classical-trajectory calculations using an ion-surface potential which isrepresented as a sum of ion-atom pair potentials plus an attractive imagelikepotential are compared to experimental results for the scattering ofNa/sup +/ and K/sup +/ from Cu(110) in the energy range 100eVless than or equal to/ital E//sub 0/less than or equal to400 eV. The strong focusing of ion trajectories on thissurface greatly enhances the sensitivity of the scattering to the form of theion-surface interaction potential. We achieve very good agreement betweencalculated and experimental spectra using pair potentials computed within theHartree-Fock approximation.
Inhibition of DNA synthesis, independent of DNA adduct formation, by benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide in mammalian cells

Treatment of SV40-infected CV-1 cells with the ultimate carcinogen anti-benzo(a)pyrene diol epoxide (BPDE) at 1 x 10/sup -4/ mg/ml or higher reduced the rate of viral DNA synthesis to an extent dependent on the BPDE concentration; similar reductions in cellular DNA synthesis were produced in infected and uninfected cells. Treatment of cells with BPDE, followed by removal of BPDE, at various times before infection with SV40 gave the same results. Recovery or partial recovery of DNA synthesis occurred when the BPDE concentration was below 6 x 10/sup -4/ mg/ml; at higher concentrations the cells were killed. Simultaneously replicating viral DNA's from viruses infecting the same cells before and after BPDE treatment of the cells exhibited the same reduced rate of synthesis. The evidence indicates that covalent adducts in viral DNA are not responsible for its reduced replication rate; moreover, it is probable that an insignificant number of adducts is produced in intracellular viral DNA at BPDE concentrations that do not kill CV-1 cells. Rather, it appears likely that BPDE inhibits viral DNA synthesis by attacking cellular DNA or non-DNA targets. Caution is therefore required in relating the effects of BPDE and other carcinogens to DNA adduct formation.
Fibrin-glue assisted multilayered amniotic membrane transplantation in surgical management of pediatric corneal limbal dermoid: a novel approach.

Purpose To report a new surgical technique for excising pediatric corneal limbal dermoid and the post-resection ocular surface reconstruction.
The mechanisms of microtubule catastrophe and rescue: implications from analysis of a dimer-scale computational model

Microtubule (MT) dynamic instability is fundamental to many cell functions, but its mechanism remains poorly understood, in part because it is difficult to gain information about the dimer-scale events at the MT tip. To address this issue, we used a dimer-scale computational model of MT assembly that is consistent with tubulin structure and biochemistry, displays dynamic instability, and covers experimentally relevant spans of time. It allows us to correlate macroscopic behaviors (dynamic instability parameters) with microscopic structures (tip conformations) and examine protofilament structure as the tip spontaneously progresses through both catastrophe and rescue. The model's behavior suggests that several commonly held assumptions about MT dynamics should be reconsidered. Moreover, it predicts that short, interprotofilament "cracks" (laterally unbonded regions between protofilaments) exist even at the tips of growing MTs and that rapid fluctuations in the depths of these cracks influence both catastrophe and rescue. We conclude that experimentally observed microtubule behavior can best be explained by a "stochastic cap" model in which tubulin subunits hydrolyze GTP according to a first-order reaction after they are incorporated into the lattice; catastrophe and rescue result from stochastic fluctuations in the size, shape, and extent of lateral bonding of the cap.
Pseudospirals, imperfect structures and crystal habit produced by field evaporation of metal crystals

Abstract Spiral-like structures are frequently observed when the tip of a field emission microscope is subjected to field evaporation at elevated temperatures. Close inspection of tips of various metals with the field ion microscope reveals that these structures are pseudo spirals, appearing as a result of eccentric bunching of complete low index net planes, without requiring the presence of a screw dislocation. The extremely large stress of the field causes various dislocations to move towards and to pile up at the surface, where they can be seen in the ion image. A picture is shown of the atomic arrangement at a low angle twin boundary in a tungsten crystal parallel to the [100]-zone. Field evaporation carried out at temperatures below the range where imperfections can move to the surface may yield perfect surfaces. Their habit is characterized by a rounded-off shape, with the radius of curvature varying in the same sense as the work function of the particular crystallographic region. The field strength for evaporation of tungsten at practically zero temperature is measured to be 1 × 10 9 V / cm on the 111 plane and 8 × 10 8 V / cm on the 011 plane, in agreement with the theory. Crystal surfaces, as obtained by low temperature evaporation at slightly lower field strengths, are also shown for platinum, iridium and rhenium.
Lichen planus-like atopic dermatitis: expanding the differential diagnosis of spongiotic dermatitis

Spongiotic dermatitis represents a commonly encountered histopathological pattern seen by dermatopathologists. The differential diagnosis of lymphocyte predominant acute spongiotic dermatitis typically entails atopic dermatitis (AD), contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, pityriasis rosea and seborrheic dermatitis. Recently, our group has characterized a distinct subtype of spongiotic dermatitis occurring exclusively in heavily pigmented patients. Clinically, lesions of this subtype are nearly indistinguishable from lichen planus. However, the histology is contradistinctive to classic lichen planus. The purpose of this report is to raise awareness among dermatopathologists of this variant as a possible diagnosis in spongiotic dermatitis specimens submitted as lichen planus.
Cell–cell interaction in prostate gene regulation and cytodifferentiation

To examine the role of intercellular interaction on cell differentiation and gene expression in human prostate, we separated the two major epithelial cell populations and studied them in isolation and in combination with stromal cells. The epithelial cells were separated by flow cytometry using antibodies against differentially expressed cell-surface markers CD44 and CD57. Basal epithelial cells express CD44, and luminal epithelial cells express CD57. The CD57+ luminal cells are the terminally differentiated secretory cells of the gland that synthesize prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Expression of PSA is regulated by androgen, and PSA mRNA is one of the abundant messages in these cells. We show that PSA expression by the CD57+ cells is abolished after prostate tissue is dispersed by collagenase into single cells. Expression is restored when CD57+ cells are reconstituted with stromal cells. The CD44+ basal cells possess characteristics of stem cells and are the candidate progenitors of luminal cells. Differentiation, as reflected by PSA production, can be detected when CD44+ cells are cocultured with stromal cells. Our studies show that cell–cell interaction plays an important role in prostatic cytodifferentiation and the maintenance of the differentiated state.
Fecundity, lifespan and egg mass in butterflies: Effects of male-derived nutrients and female size

1. Effects of larval reserves and nutrients received as adults on fecundity and lifespan in female Danaus plexippus (the Monarch Butterfly) were measured to determine the relative importance of different sources of nutrients for reproduction and somatic maintenance. 2. Egg-laying lifespan was correlated with female size but not with the amount of male-derived nutrients or adult food concentration. 3. Lifetime fecundity was higher when females received a large first spermatophore, but was not affected by female size when lifespan was controlled or by adult food concentration. 4. At the end of their lives, females contained unlaid eggs and retained, on average, 88% of their initial mass. This proportion was unchanged in two years, although mean egg-laying lifespan varied from 22·5 to 28·7 days. 5. Egg mass decreased over the female lifespan, and was correlated with female size. 6. These results suggest that larval reserves are more important for somatic maintenance than adult income, but that the protein-rich nutrients received from males contribute to egg production. This supports theoretical predictions and empirical studies of other Lepidoptera showing that larval reserves are less likely to affect fecundity when the adult income can contribute substantially to egg production.
Electronic structure of holes in modulation doped p-Si1−xGex/Si strained quantum wells in a magnetic field

Abstract The results of self-consistent calculations of hole energy levels in strained, symmetric and asymmetric, p -type modulation doped Si 1−x Ge x /Si quantum wells in a magnetic field are reported. The band mixing is responsible for the enhanced effective g -factor of the opposite parity states. This leads to gaps at predominantly odd filling factors. The calculated filling factor dependent energy gaps are compared with gaps obtained from magneto-transport measurements.
A Hands-on Approach to Teaching Thermal Systems Design

Thermal Systems Design, as a senior undergraduate course, has been taught by several methods in different mechanical engineering curricula. The objective of this upper-level undergraduate course at WSU Vancouver is to enhance the student’s industrial vision, and to prepare them for mechanical engineering practice before they graduate. For this purpose, students first apply the concepts of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer that they had previously learned in relevant fundamental courses, through the real world problems and design projects. To increase the ability of students in design and realization of thermal systems, a design competition is setup in class within the course timeframe. The present article reports the details and results of such a hands-on class activity.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Microscale physiological and ecological studies of aquatic cyanobacteria: Macroscale implications

Cyanobacteria have had a profound and unparalleled biogeochemical impact on the earth's biosphere. As the first oxygenic phototrophs, cyanobacteria were responsible for the transition from anaerobic to aerobic life. Ironically, molecular oxygen (O2) is inhibitory to critical components of cyanobacterial metabolism, including photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. Cyanobacteria have developed a great variety of biochemical, structural, and biotic adaptations ensuring optimal growth and proliferation in diverse oxic environments to counter this difficult situation. Structurally, cyanobacteria reveal remarkable diversity, including the formation of highly differentiated, O2-deplete cells (heterocysts), multicellularity as trichomes, and aggregates, that, among N2-fixing genera, facilitate division of labor between aerobic and anaerobic processes. Cyanobacteria enjoy unique consortial and symbiotic associations with other microorganisms, higher plants, and animals, in which O2 consumption is closely coupled in time and space to its production. Because as prokaryotes they are devoid of O2-consuming organelles (e.g., mitochondria), cyanobacteria have developed alternative strategies for locally protecting O2-sensitive processes, including consortial relationships with other microorganisms. Specific organic compounds released by cyanobacteria are capable of chemotactically attracting bacterial consorts, which in turn attach to the host cyanobacteria, consume O2, and recycle inorganic nutrients within the cyanobacterial “phycosphere.” Multicellularity and aggregation lead to localized O2 gradients and hypoxic/anoxic microzones in which O2-sensitive processes can coexist. Microscale partitioning of O2-producing and O2-inhibited processes promotes contiguous and effective metabolite and nutrient exchange between these processes in oxygenated waters, representing a bulk of the world's oceanic and freshwater ecosystems. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Water, Sodium and Potassium Content of Normal and Encephalomyehtic Mouse Brain.∗

Summary1. The infection of mice with the MM encephalomyelitis virus causes a significant increase in the water and sodium content of the brain, as compared with normal controls. 2. The potassium content of the infected brain shows a slight decrease which is not statistically significant. 3. A plausible but not conclusively demonstrated interpretation of the results is that an extracellular edema of the brain occurs with MM encephalomyelitis virus in mice.
Improved Estimation of Normalizing Constants From Markov Chain Monte Carlo Output

Normalizing constants of conditional distributions include Bayesian marginal likelihoods and likelihoods of mixture models, such as hierarchical models and state-space time-series models. A promising method for estimating such quantities was proposed by Chib and Jeliazkov (CJ) and improved by Mira and Nicholls using bridge sampling results. Here three additional improvements and one theoretical result for the methods of CJ are given. First, a different Metropolis–Hastings proposal density is used for estimating the normalizing constant than for the MCMC run. Second, a ratio of effective sample sizes is incorporated into the optimal bridge function to account for sequential dependence of the MCMC output. Third, the Moving Block Bootstrap is used to estimate the variance of the normalizing constant estimates, which is then minimized with respect to the CJ proposal density and bridge function. It is shown that the optimal proposal density for estimating the normalizing constant, regardless of the proposal de...
Radiochemical neutron activation analysis of indium, cadmium, yttrium and the 14 rare earth elements in rocks

Abstract Indium, cadmium, yttrium and the 14 rare earth elements were simultaneously separated in the U.S. Geological Survey standard rocks, BCR-1 (basalt), G-2 (granite), and DTS-1 (dunite), and determined by γ-spectrometry with a 3×3 in NaI(Tl) well crystal and associated electronics. This method enabled the accurate determination of all the rare earths within a short time compared with instrumental methods. Indium and cadmium were separated in about 1.5 h and 4 h, respectively. Results for indium, cadmium and the rare earths are in excellent agreement with literature values. Indium and cadmium show decreasing concentrations in the sequence BCR-1/G-2/DTS-1. Relative to the rare earth distribution pattern in chondritic meteorites, the rare earth pattern observed in BCR-1 and G-2 are similar to other basalts and granites; however, the rare earth pattern in DTS-1 is V-shaped with a minimum at terbium and is similar to rare earth patterns observed in olivine minerals.
Counterconditioning with and without response prevention in deconditioning persisting avoidance

Thirty-six rats were each fixed with a chronically indwelling electrode to provide intracranial stimulation (ICS) of the lateral hypothalamus-medial forebrain bundle. They were trained in an automated one-way avoidance apparatus to avoid footshock. After footshock was turned off, they were given one of six treatments and then tested for effectiveness of treatment by being allowed to respond again to extinction criteria. Treatments included response prevention and programming positive ICS under different circumstances. Results showed that those treatments which were most effective provided some form of counterconditioning with ICS while the rat was on the footshock grid; however, it was not necessary to prevent responding for the ICS to countercondition.
Effect of weak-, non-, and co-carcinogenic chemicals on 2-acetylaminofluurene-induced mutation in Salmonella typhimurium

Abstract The effects of various weak-, non-, and co-carcinogenic chemicals on 2-acetylaminofluorene-induced mutation in Salmonella typhimurium were studied. We found that a single co-mutagen could provide for either enhanced or decreased mutagenesis. A differential effect on mutagenic expression was dependent upon: (1) the type of inducer of S-9 (supernatant from liver homogenate centrifuged at 9000 × g ) liver enzymes; (2) the amount of S-9 enzyme preparation employed; and (3) the combined dose of mutagen plus co-mutagen studied. No effect was observed in the absence of S-9. Our data suggest that in S. typhimurium a primary factor in the alteration of mutagenesis by a combination of chemicals is changes in metabolism of the principal mutagen.
Release from washed platelets induced by strontium ions and calcium ions: Indications for two different mechanisms of action

1. 1. The platelet release reaction from washed human platelets can be induced by the addition of Sr2+ or Ca2+ in the absence of other release inducers. 2. 2. The release induced by either ion is blocked by the combined effect of inhibitors of glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration. 3. 3. Cyproheptadine strongly inhibits release induced by Sr2+ or Ca2+. 4. 4. The platelet preparations can be divided into two types: I, those where the amount of release induced by Sr2+ is equal to or greater than the amount of release induced by Ca2+; and II, those where the amount of release induced by Sr2+ is markedly smaller than that induced by Ca2+. 5. 5. The strong release induced by Sr2+ (Type I) is almost completely blocked when platelet-rich plasma is pretreated with acetylsalicylic acid or indomethacin before the washing procedure, while Ca2+-induced release is in most cases little affected, as is the Type II release. 6. 6. This is taken as evidence that Sr2+ and Ca2+ when added alone exert their induction on two different steps of the release reaction, the Sr2+ induction before and the Ca2+ induction after the step which is sensitive to anti-inflammatory drugs.
PVT relationships in a carbon dioxide-rich mixture with ethane

Comprehensive isochoric PVT measurements have been obtained for the system (0.99 CO2 + 0.01 C2H6). The range of state points studied includes those with densities from 2 to 24 mol·dm−3, temperatures from 245 to 400 K, and pressures to 35 MPa. Extensive comparisons have been made with two predictive conformai solution models, one which uses the 32-term BWR-type equation of Stewart and Jacobsen as a reference and the other using the newer Schmidt-Wagner functional form. Results obtained with the Schmidt-Wagner equation are better in the near-critical region owing to the flatter critical isotherm associated with this functional form.
Coaching the Mentor: Facilitating Reflection and Change.

The purpose of this study is to explore the process of coaching a mentor of experienced teachers. In particular, we sought to determine if coaching would help a mentor to compare her espoused beliefs about mentoring to her mentoring behaviors and possibly resolve any dissonance. The mentor and coach (the co‐researchers) participated in a platform conference, three coaching conferences, and a debriefing conference. In the platform conference, the mentor espoused the use of nondirective mentoring behaviors. The mentor and coach used the coaching conferences to review audio recordings of the mentor working with mentees during conferences intended to improve the mentees’ teaching, and to engage in reflective dialogue concerning the mentor’s interpersonal behaviors. The mentor experienced cognitive dissonance on several occasions during the coaching conferences when she discovered her use of directive behaviors in some interactions with mentees. Eventually, the mentor resolved this dissonance, primarily by cha...
Conformation of the Acyl Chains in Diacylphospholipid Gels by IR Spectroscopy

An IR study of the conformational disorder in the part of the hydrocarbon chain nearest the ester group in gel-phase lipid bilayers is presented. The infrared method for determining the conformation of the CH2−CH2 bond attached to the ester group is discussed and applied to a number of representative gel-phase 1,2-diacylphosphatidylcholine fully hydrated dispersions, including symmetric and mixed-chain PCs in their gel and subgel phases. The effect on chain conformation of the headgroups PC, PE, and PA- was explored. Only two conformations of the alkyl chains were found: a planar (all-trans) chain and a nonplanar chain that is all-trans except for the CH2−CH2 bond nearest the ester group. Concentrations of the two conformers were also determined. The overall concentration of the planar form always exceeds 50% but varies significantly depending on the lipid involved. In two cases, the concentration of the planar conformer was estimated for both the SN1 and SN2 chains.
Automated detection of amino acid decarboxylation in salmonellae and other Enterobacteriaceae

Abstract Amino acid decarboxylase (DC) activities ofSalmonellaspp. and other Enterobacteriaceae were studied using the BioSys, a novel automated system for detection of microbial metabolic activities. The growth media consisted of peptone, glucose and yeast extract, alone and supplemented with 0.5% (w/v) L -lysine, L -arginine or L -ornithine, and bromcresol purple as the pH dye indicator. Changes in the indicator color in response to acid (yellow), and amine production (reversal to purple), were monitored during incubation at 35°C. All 14 Salmonella strains tested had positive lysine, ornithine and arginine DC activity. Time for the shift in the indicator color to purple was consistently shortest in media containing ornithine, followed closely by lysine, and was longest in the presence of arginine. DC activity of 10 non-Salmonella Enterobacteriaceae depended on the strain and genus. Coupled with detection of other phenotypic reactions in the automated system, decarboxylation is useful for differentiation of salmonellae from other Enterobacteriaceae.
Effects of thiol antioxidant β-mercaptoethanol on diet-induced obese mice.

Aims Obesity and insulin resistance are associated with increased oxidant stress. However, treatments of obese subjects with different types of antioxidants often give mixed outcomes. In this work, we sought to determine if long-term supplementation of a thiol antioxidant, β-mercaptoethanol, to diet-induced obese mice may improve their health conditions.
Microcephaly with chorioretinal degeneration

PURPOSE : To describe the ophthalmologic findings and electroretinograms in patients with microcephaly and chorioretinal degeneration. METHODS : We reviewed the hospital records of 20 patients with microcephaly that was not part of a recognizable syndrome prior to initial referral to the institutional consultative practice of one of the authors (RGW). Twelve patients, all from separate families, were diagnosed as having microcephaly with chorioretinopathy. Ten of these patients had ISCEV-standard electroretinograms (ERG). RESULTS : No family history of microcephaly or retinal degeneration was found in any of our patients. Three patients had another family member with mental retardation. Three of the 12 were compatible with the autosomal dominant form of microcephaly with chorioretinopathy (MIM 156590), possibly as a new mutation. Eight patients, who had fundus findings of retinitis pigmentosa, were similar to the autosomal recessive form of microcephaly with chorioretinal degeneration (MIM 251270). The ER...
Management of esophageal cancer.

The number of new cases of esophageal cancer in the United States in 2000 likely will exceed the 12,000 annually recorded in previous years. Although two histologic subtypes exist, the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus in the last two decades has been increasing dramatically throughout North America and Europe.1–3 The primary risk factor is chronic heartburn leading to a sequence of esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and ultimately adenocarcinoma. The overall 5-year survival rate is a disappointing 5% to 10%. However, in patients who present early in the course of the disease where the tumor is confined solely to the esophagus, the 5-year survival can be as high as 85%, thus emphasizing the importance of accurate staging at the initial evaluation.4
A multifunctional nanostructured platform for localized sustained release of analgesics and antibiotics

The current delivery methods for pain medication, local anesthetics, antibiotics, and steroids present several limitations mainly due to their route of administration, which results in suboptimal pain management, potential systemic toxicity, and subtherapeutic levels which increases the risk of microorganisms developing antibiotic resistance. Our group developed a hybrid material consisting of nanoporous silicon (pSi) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, loaded with antibiotics and pain relief medications, respectively. The medications were delivered via a bioactive angiogenic gel of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This system releases both molecules in a sustained and controlled fashion while simultaneously promoting wound healing and vascularization of the surgical site. The resulting advantages include improved medication efficacy at a lower total drug concentration, decreased risk of systemic toxicity, and for antibiotics, decreased risk of developing resistance. The versatile nature of our platform allows for a variety of different drugs, molecules, biological factors to be loaded and released by the gel. Moreover, by tuning the chemical and physical properties of each component, it is possible to tailor the release rate of each biomolecule to its desired therapeutic level. Therapeutic and antimicrobial agents were released at potent daily dosages for up to 7 days by combination of PLGA and pSi particles free or embedded within the PRP gel. When implanted in vivo, the composite gel was vascularized and infiltrated with endogenous cells by 2 weeks while exhibiting no symptoms of inflammation or immune response. This novel technology has the potential to dramatically affect the post-operative management of patients with an immediate improvement in post-operative pain management, decreased PACU and hospital length of stays, with subsequently decreased hospital and surgical costs. Furthermore, this unique and effective drug delivery platform technology may eliminate the need for subsequent treatments, repeat dosing, and dramatically improve patient convenience and patient compliance.
The scientific surgeon.

ABSTRACTThe scientific surgeon begins with Joseph Lister and his seminal work on the development of antiseptic surgery published in 1867 in Lancet. No other significant works of the times compare to Lister's contributions in this particular field of surgery. Lister utilized pristine scientific principles, learned in part from Pasteur, to understand and apply the germ theory of disease to practical surgery. In this regard, in previous publications, we have considered Lister as the “Father of Scientific Surgery.” The scientific surgeon as a well-defined professional did not exist until the first residency in surgery was developed. Halsted of Hopkins introduced the first systematic and scientific surgical residency in 1901. This is the time, then, in which the scientific surgeon was formed and educated. Other programs followed Halsted's residency guidelines in surgery. The scientific surgeon is now well integrated and fully based on the science applied to surgery. Halsted's surgery was reproduced by other pr...
Resource Allocation for Maximizing Prediction Accuracy and Genetic Gain of Genomic Selection in Plant Breeding: A Simulation Experiment

Allocating resources between population size and replication affects both genetic gain through phenotypic selection and quantitative trait loci detection power and effect estimation accuracy for marker-assisted selection (MAS). It is well known that because alleles are replicated across individuals in quantitative trait loci mapping and MAS, more resources should be allocated to increasing population size compared with phenotypic selection. Genomic selection is a form of MAS using all marker information simultaneously to predict individual genetic values for complex traits and has widely been found superior to MAS. No studies have explicitly investigated how resource allocation decisions affect success of genomic selection. My objective was to study the effect of resource allocation on response to MAS and genomic selection in a single biparental population of doubled haploid lines by using computer simulation. Simulation results were compared with previously derived formulas for the calculation of prediction accuracy under different levels of heritability and population size. Response of prediction accuracy to resource allocation strategies differed between genomic selection models (ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction [RR-BLUP], BayesCπ) and multiple linear regression using ordinary least-squares estimation (OLS), leading to different optimal resource allocation choices between OLS and RR-BLUP. For OLS, it was always advantageous to maximize population size at the expense of replication, but a high degree of flexibility was observed for RR-BLUP. Prediction accuracy of doubled haploid lines included in the training set was much greater than of those excluded from the training set, so there was little benefit to phenotyping only a subset of the lines genotyped. Finally, observed prediction accuracies in the simulation compared well to calculated prediction accuracies, indicating these theoretical formulas are useful for making resource allocation decisions.
The application of image tensors and a new decomposition

The tensor method for calculation of the affine transform relating two views of a rigid, planar object is briefly reviewed, and methods for accomplishing the reduction in rank of image tensors which enable affine transform solution via a simple system of linear equations are summarized. A new tensor decomposition is then presented which lends itself to a similar solution technique but provides greater geometrical insight into the process. This technique for accomplishing the needed tensor decomposition is based on Prony’s method for solution of a set of non-linear equations. The operation of a complete orientation estimation algorithm based on this decomposition is demonstrated on a camera acquired image.
Effect of PMMA particles and movement on an implant interface in a canine model

The pathogenesis of aseptic loosening of total joint prostheses is not clearly understood. Two features are associated with loosened prostheses, namely, particulate debris and movement of the implant. While numerous studies have evaluated the cellular response to particulate biomaterials, few have investigated the influence of movement of the implant on the biological response to particles. Our aim was therefore to test the hypothesis that excessive mechanical stimulation of the periprosthetic tissues induces an inflammatory response and that the addition of particulate biomaterials intensifies this. We allocated 66 adult Beagle dogs to four groups as follows: stable implants with (I) and without (II) particulate polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and moving implants with (III) and without (IV) particulate PMMA. They were then evaluated at 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24 weeks. The stable implants were well tolerated and a thin, fibrous membrane of connective tissue was observed. There was evidence of positive staining in some cells for interleukin-6 (IL-6). Addition of particulate PMMA around the stable implants resulted in an increase in the fibroblastic response and positive staining for IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). By contrast, movement of the implant resulted in an immediate inflammatory response characterised by large numbers of histiocytes and cytokine staining for IL-1s, TNF-α and IL-6. Introduction of particulate PMMA aggravated this response. Animals with particulate PMMA and movement of the implant have an intense inflammatory response associated with accelerated bone loss. Our results indicate that the initiation of the inflammatory response to biomaterial particles was much slower than that to gross mechanical instability. Furthermore, when there was both particulate debris and movement, there was an amplification of the adverse tissue response as evidenced by the presence of osteolysis and increases in the presence of inflammatory cells and their associated cytokines.
Partial Identification in Econometrics

Identification in econometric models maps prior assumptions and the data to information about a parameter of interest. The partial identification approach to inference recognizes that this process should not result in a binary answer that consists of whether the parameter is point identified. Rather, given the data, the partial identification approach characterizes the informational content of various assumptions by providing a menu of estimates, each based on different sets of assumptions, some of which are plausible and some of which are not. Of course, more assumptions beget more information, so stronger conclusions can be made at the expense of more assumptions. The partial identification approach advocates a more fluid view of identification and hence provides the empirical researcher with methods to help study the spectrum of information that we can harness about a parameter of interest using a menu of assumptions. This approach links conclusions drawn from various empirical models to sets of assump...
Angiotensin II, reactive oxygen species, and Ca2+ signaling in afferent arterioles.

In afferent arteriolar vascular smooth muscle cells, ANG II induces a rise in cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) via inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) stimulation and by activation of the adenine diphos...
Hypothetical datalog: complexity and expressibility

Abstract We present an extension of Horn-clause logic which can hypothetically add and delete tuples from a database. Such logics have been discussed in the literature, but their complexities and expressibilities have remained an open question. This paper examines two such logics in the function-free, predicate case. It is shown, in particular, that augmenting Horn-clause logic with hypothetical addition increases its data-complexity from PTIME to PSPACE. When deletions are added as well, complexity increases again, to EXPTIME. We then augment the logic with negation-as-failure and develop the notion of stratified hypothetical rulebases. It is shown that negation does not increase complexity. To establish expressibility, we view the logic as a query language for relational databases. It is shown that any typed generic query that is computable in PSPACE can be expressed as a stratified rulebase of hypothetical additions. Similarly, any typed generic query that is computable in EXPTIME can be expressed as a stratified rulebase of hypothetical additions and deletions. Neither of these results assumes the data domain is linearly ordered. In this way, we establish the expressive completeness of our logics for queries in PSPACE and EXPTIME, respectively.
Use of a team collaboration model to identify candidate knowledge management and collaboration technologies

Motivation - We used a model of team collaboration as a framework to assist in the requirements stage of knowledge management (KM) and collaboration system development. Research approach - The model emphasizes the macrocognitive processes entailed in collaboration and includes major processes that underlie this type of communication. Data was analyzed for several 9/11 efforts and air-warfare scenarios. Findings/Design - Data captured from teams performing their tasks provided insight into areas where collaboration might be lacking. Research limitations/Implications - Findings suggest our approach can identify candidate KM and collaboration tools types. Further analyses and other types of collaborative tasks are necessary to generalize our results. Originality/Value - Our work focuses on the requirements stage of development while others generally focus on assessing current technology. Take away message - Our research seeks to identify the right types of technology tools early in the development process. Cost savings is generally more dramatic in the earlier stages of system development.
Design considerations for a-Si solar cells

Amorphous Si (a-Si) is potentially an attractive material for thin-film solar cells. However, its potential for high-efficiency devices to date has not been realized. In this paper, we examine the design considerations which can be used to develop high-efficiency devices from a-Si. The design analysis takes full advantage of the flexibility in bandgap and other material properties offered by a-Si. Several structures, such as light-trapped cells, graded layer cells, and tandem junction a-Si/a-Si cells are analyzed in detail for collection efficiency, V oc , and fill factors. It is shown that using these innovative structures, realistic conversion efficiencies exceeding 10 percent can be realized in a-Si in spite of the very low diffusion lengths (∼0.1 µm). Technological considerations for achieving such structures are also discussed.
Proton radiotherapy: the biological effect of treating alternating subsets of fields for different treatment fractions

Purpose Common practice in proton radiotherapy is to deliver a subset of all fields in the treatment plan on any given treatment day. We investigate using biological modeling if the resulting variation in daily dose to normal tissues has a relevant detrimental biological effect. Methods and Materials For four patient groups, the cumulative normalized total dose (NTD) was determined for normal tissues (OARs) of each patient using the clinically delivered fractionation schedule (FS clin ), and for hypothetical fractionation schedules delivering all fields every day (FS all ) or only a single field each day (FS single ). Cumulative three-dimensional NTD distributions were summarized using the generalized equivalent uniform dose (gEUD) model. Results For the skull base/cervical spine chordoma group, the largest effect is a 4-Gy increase in gEUD of the chiasm when treating only a subset of fields on any day. For lung cancer and pancreatic cancer patients, the variation in the gEUD of normal tissues is clin increases the gEUD of the femoral heads by 9 Gy compared with FS all . Use of FS single resulted in the highest NTD to normal tissues for any patient. FS all resulted in an integral NTD to the patient that is on average 5% lower than FS clin and 10% lower than FS single . Conclusion The effects of field set of the day treatment delivery depend on the tumor site and number of fields treated each day. Modeling these effects may be important for accurate risk assessment.
Mickey: a macro cell global router

The authors present a new graph-based macro cell global router. The placement of the macro cells need not have the slicing structure and the macro cells may have any rectilinear shape. A key contribution is a new algorithm which efficiently generates M shortest routes for every net. The global router then selects one route for each net while seeking to avoid the net routing-order dependence problem. Mickey has two different objective functions, making it applicable to different design styles. It can be used to either minimize the chip area or to minimize the total wire length under channel capacity constraints. Test results on industrial circuits show that Mickey outperforms existing approaches. >
Public health education for emergency medicine residents.

Abstract Emergency medicine (EM) has an important role in public health, but the ideal approach for teaching public health to EM residents is unclear. As part of the national Regional Public Health–Medicine Education Centers–Graduate Medical Education initiative from the CDC and the American Association of Medical Colleges, three EM programs received funding to create public health curricula for EM residents. Curricula approaches varied by residency. One program used a modular, integrative approach to combine public health and EM clinical topics during usual residency didactics, one partnered with local public health organizations to provide real-world experiences for residents, and one drew on existing national as well as departmental resources to seamlessly integrate more public health–oriented educational activities within the existing residency curriculum. The modular and integrative approaches appeared to have a positive impact on resident attitudes toward public health, and a majority of EM residents at that program believed public health training is important. Reliance on pre-existing community partnerships facilitated development of public health rotations for residents. External funding for these efforts was critical to their success, given the time and financial restraints on residency programs. The optimal approach for public health education for EM residents has not been defined.
Solvay type VCl3 isospecific catalysts

Solvay type S–VCl3 catalyst has 7% of catalytically active vanadium sites ([C*]) with kp (rate constant of propagation) = 31 (M s)−1 for ethylene polymerization. Addition of a comonomer, propylene of 4-methylpentene-1 (4-MP) significantly raised the ethylene polymerization activity. S–VCI3 catalyst has very small amounts of catalytically active vanadium for propylene polymerizations: [C] = 0.19% with kp,i = 857 (M s)−1 and [C] = 0.45% with kp,a = 23 (M s)−1 for isospecific and nonspecific sites, respectively. Addition of a conomer, ethylene or 4-MP. lowered the propylene polymerization activity. S–VCI3 is more easily reduced to the divalent ion by AIR3 than S–TiCl3. Methyl-p-toluate moderates the reducting power of AIR3; it increase the productivity and stereoselectivity of the S–YiCl3 catalyst, VCI3 supported on MgCl2 (CW–V catalyst) has enhanced rate constant of propylene polymerization but has the opposite effects on the S–TiCl3 Catalyst. VCI3 supported on MgCl2 (CW–V catalyst) has enhances rate constant of propylene polymerization but only a minute fraction of the supported vanadiums are catalytically active: [C] = 0.019% and kp,i = 1580 (Ms)−1, [C] = 0.057% and kp,i = 58 (M s)−1. This is compared with far greater number of catalytically active titanium sites in the TiCl3 supported on MgCl2 catalyst: [C] = 6% and kp,i = 200 (M s)−1, [C] = 6% and kp,a = 16(M s)−1. Therefore, both the S–VCI3 and CW–V catalysts are highly stereoselective but low in efficiency with respect to the utilization of the vanadium ion in the catalysis.
VALIDATION OF MEASURES FROM THE SMARTPHONE SWAY BALANCE APPLICATION: A PILOT STUDY

Purpose/Background: A number of different balance assessment techniques are currently available and widely used. These include both subjective and objective assessments. The ability to provide quantitative measures of balance and posture is the benefit of objective tools, however these instruments are not generally utilized outside of research laboratory settings due to cost, complexity of operation, size, duration of assessment, and general practicality. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the value and validity of using software developed to access the iPod and iPhone accelerometers output and translate that to the measurement of human balance. Methods: Thirty healthy college-aged individuals (13 male, 17 female; age = 26.1 ± 8.5 years) volunteered. Participants performed a static Athlete’s Single Leg Test protocol for 10 sec, on a Biodex Balance System SD while concurrently utilizing a mobile device with balance software. Anterior/posterior stability was recorded using both devices, described as the displacement in degrees from level, and was termed the “balance score.” Results: There were no significant differences between the two reported balance scores (p = 0.818. Mean balance score on the balance platform was 1.41 ± 0.90, as compared to 1.38 ± 0.72 using the mobile device. Conclusions: There is a need for a valid, convenient, and cost-effective tool to objectively measure balance. Results of this study are promising, as balance score derived from the Smartphone accelerometers were consistent with balance scores obtained from a previously validated balance system. However, further investigation is necessary as this version of the mobile software only assessed balance in the anterior/posterior direction. Additionally, further testing is necessary on a healthy populations and as well as those with impairment of the motor control system. Level of Evidence: Level 2b (Observational study of validity) 1
EVALUATION OF STIMULUS CONTROL OVER A COMMUNICATION RESPONSE AS AN INTERVENTION FOR STEREOTYPICAL RESPONDING

Stereotypical behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement often does not result in harm but may be undesirable in some situations. In the current investigation, participants were 2 individuals who engaged in nonharmful stereotypical responses shown in an analogue functional analysis to be insensitive to social contingencies. After bringing these responses under stimulus control using differential punishment, both participants learned a mand to terminate punishment for stereotypy. We also assessed whether the mand could be brought under stimulus control.
The DNA sequence of argI from Escherichia coli K12

Abstract The argI gene from E. coli K12 has been sequenced. It contains an open reading frame of 1002 bases which encodes a polypeptide of 334 amino acids. Three such polypeptides are required to form the functional catalytic trimer (c3) of ornithine transcarbamoylase (OTCase-1, EC 2.1.3.3). The molecular mass of the mature trimer deduced from the amino acid sequence is 114,465 daltons. An altered form of argI was produced when a 1.6 kilobase DdeI fragment was subcloned into the HincII site of plasmid pUC8 extending the open reading frame an additional 20 nucleotides. It has been previously reported that the amino-terminal region of the respective polypeptides of argI, argF, and pyrB of E. coli possessed significant homology. In contrast, the homologous promoter/operator regions of argI and argF did not appear to share any homologies with pyrB. However, a closer scrutiny of the nucleotide sequence immediately preceding the pyrBI attenuator revealed a remarkable similarity to the argI and argF control region.