cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Explaining Novice Programmer's Struggles, in Two Parts: Revisiting the ITiCSE 2004 working group's study using dual process theory

Identifying the cause of a problem is often much more difficult than identifying the problem. The ITiCSE 2004 working group, led by Raymond Lister, conducted a study following up on the McCracken group's finding that many novices struggled with presumedly easy coding tasks. Rather than a test of coding, Lister et al.'s participants completed multiple-choice questions to ascertain their level conceptual understanding of coding constructs. Lister and team reported that participants understood programming concepts yet lacked the consistent apply that knowledge to trace code. This paper revisits the analysis of two of twelve questions to reinterpret their data using dual process theory to explain novice inconsistencies better. Dual process theory describes cognition as two mechanisms: slow, focused, rational thinking versus quick, automatic, and effortless responses. The results suggest dual process theory changes the epistemological meaning of what is to 'know' how to program. Mature programmers utilize more than just knowledge of concepts, but also require speed and intuition obtained through practice. Dual process theory provides a new lens for assessing novice maturity and pedagogy in programming.
Intrauterine Pressure During Hysteroscopic Morcellation: A Comparison of Three Commercially-Available Devices.

STUDY OBJECTIVE Our objective was to compare intrauterine pressures during resection and aspiration modes among three types of commercially-available hysteroscopic morcellators. DESIGN This was a benchtop study (Canadian Task Force level II-1). This study cannot feasibly and ethically be done in-vivo, so an ex-vivo study design was chosen. SETTING A silicone uterine model was attached to a manometer via tubing, with the tip inside the cavity to allow for intracavity pressure measurements. Each hysteroscopic morcellator was then introduced, and intracavity pressures were recorded every one to two seconds in three modes (static, resection, and aspiration) and at three set point pressures (45, 85, and 125 mmHg). PATIENTS No human subjects were involved in this study. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS There were a total of 4,872 pressure measurements during this study across the three devices, over the three modes, and at the three set point pressures combined. Using mixed-effects linear regression, the mean observed intracavity pressure was not greater than the set pressure for each of the three devices. This result held true in both aspiration and resection modes. In our statistical models, the coefficient on the terms representing the interaction between device and time were not statistically significant in either resection or aspiration modes. This indicates that, statistically, the change in intracavity pressure over time was not significantly different across the three devices. CONCLUSION In this first of its kind head-to-head benchtop study, we found that all three commercially-available hysteroscopic morcellators appear to be similar to each other in terms of their abilities to maintain intracavity pressure below the set pressure, which is important in avoiding intravasation in-vivo. These findings are important because many gynecologists do not have the ability to choose between the three available devices on the market at their institution.
The birth of a baby with mosaicism resulting from a known mosaic embryo transfer: a case report

Mosaic embryos have the potential to implant and develop into healthy babies. The transfer of mosaic embryos is now considered to be a possible option for women undergoing ART with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies and in the absence of euploid embryos, particularly those with diminished ovarian reserve and/or advanced maternal age. It can aid in avoiding the discard of potentially viable embryos, which might otherwise result in healthy babies. In over 500 studies on mosaicism, there have been no reports of mosaicism in babies born following the transfer of mosaic embryos. Here, we present a case report of a 39-year-old woman with diminished ovarian reserve with only one blastocyst available for trophectoderm biopsy. The transfer of the embryo, which showed 35% mosaicism of monosomy 2, resulted in pregnancy. Amniocentesis revealed a mosaic trisomic mos46,XX(98)/47,XX,+2(2) karyotype. There were no pathological findings in detailed ultrasonography, and the fetus showed a normal fetal growth with no evidence of intrauterine growth retardation. A healthy female baby was born at Week 37. The peripheral blood chromosome analysis validated with fluorescence in situ hybridization showed 2% mosaic monosomy 2 [mos45,XX,-2(2)/46,XX(98)]. This is the first reported case of true fetal mosaicism resulting in a live birth following the transfer of a known mosaic embryo. Worldwide, prenatal diagnosis has shown the depletion of mosaicism in embryos transferred after they have been reported as mosaics. Our case demonstrates the need for close prenatal monitoring and diagnosis by early amniocentesis, preferably at >14 weeks gestation.
S1PR1 and VEGFR2 – a synergy that promotes tumor angiogenesis?

We have recently uncovered that endothelial cell (EC) S1PR1 controls the effectiveness of VEGFR2 driven tumor angiogenesis. By using tumor ECs, EC-S1PR1-/- mice and S1PR1 antagonist, we showed that VEGF-VEGFR2 pathway requires EC-S1PR1-induced signaling to efficiently drive tumor vascularization and growth, indicating combining S1PR1 antagonist with anti-VEGF/VEGFR2 therapy may eradicate resistant tumors.
Validation of the ASKSG with a Parent Sample in the United States.

Parents play a critical role in the early identification of ASD because of their experiential knowledge and frequent observations of their children. Being knowledgeable about ASD may help parents recognize early signs and symptoms, know to which professionals to express their concerns, and better navigate systems of care. An appropriate measure of ASD knowledge for parents is essential to further understand the importance of ASD knowledge in this population. This study sought to validate the Autism Spectrum Knowledge Scale—General Population Version (ASKSG) with a sample of parents with children under the age of 18 years in the United States. Results indicate that the ASKSG is a valid and reliable measure for use with parents.
A search for forward scattering of sunlight from lunar libration clouds

Abstract An attempt to determine the radiance of forward scattered sunlight from particles in lunar libration regions was made with the white light coronagraph on Skylab. The libration regions could not be distinguished against the solar K + F coronal background; an upper limit to the libration cloud radiance is determined to be 2·5 × 10 −11 B ⊚ , where B ⊚ is the mean radiance of the solar disk. Employing a model of the particle composition and size distribution which has been proposed for the interplanetary medium, we determine upper limits for the density enhancements in the libration region from the upper limit of the forward scattered radiance presented herein. Similarly, the actual spatial density enhancement is calculated using the earlier observations of the libration region backscattered radiance (Roach, 1975). Enhancements of a factor of 102–103 are thus determined, depending upon material composition and size distribution used. By combining the forward and backscatter observations, it is possible to eliminate from consideration clouds whose power law particle size distribution exponent k is 2·5 and complex index of refraction m is 1·33−0.05i and 1·50−0.05i (i.e. absorbing ice and quartz particles, respectively). Finally, the radiance contrast of a possible model libration cloud is calculated with respect to the K- and F-corona/zodiaal light background and is shown to be a maximum in the vicinity of solar elongation angle ∼30 deg.
Complementary and Alternative (CAM) Treatment Options for Women with Pelvic pain.

To provide an overview of the current complementary and alternative (CAM) treatment options for women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Recent studies on chronic pain at cellular, molecular, and network level and their interaction with the immune system have unfolded several mechanisms for pain making it promising to explore the alternative paradigm to manage the incredibly complex chronic pelvic pain condition where multifactorial etiology often limits successful outcomes. The multifactorial nature and complexity in establishing the underlying diagnosis in CPP limit predictable response to traditional medical and interventional options. Complementary and alternative options have been studied to improve outcomes. Incorporation of exercise-based CAM, pelvic floor physical therapy, acupuncture, and cognitive behavioral therapy are suggested to show promising results, but well powered randomized studies are needed to draw conclusions on their efficacy. Evidence for non-opioid alternatives such as oral cannabinoids are preliminary and may emerge to be safe and effective.
Detection of bone metastases in uterine cancer: How common are they and should PET/CT be the standard for diagnosis?

Abstract Objectives Osseous metastases (OM) in endometrial cancer (EMCA) are thought to be rare. This study aimed to address the gap in present knowledge by defining the rate of OM in endometrial cancer (EMCA) as stratified by histology and ascertaining the best diagnostic modality for detection. Methods 435 consecutive cases of EMCA evaluated in tertiary care setting were reviewed. Clinico-pathologic data were abstracted and analyzed. Results 18/403 patients were found to have OM (4.6%). Majority were detected by PET/CT (13/18 (72%)), with conventional CT scans missing the diagnoses otherwise made by PET/CT scans in 2/9 patients. Patients with type II EMCA were at higher risk of developing OM compared with patients with type I EMCA; 2/234 patients with type I EMCA (0.85%) developed OM, as compared to 16/167 patients with type II EMCA (9.58%), OR = 12.3. Patients with serous histology had significantly higher odds of developing OM when compared to patients with non-serous histologies (OR 4, p = 0.001, 95% CI 1.54 to 10.76). Kaplan Myer survival function and log-rank analysis showed that the presence of OM was a significant negative prognosticator of survival, with median overall survival (mOS) of 16 months in OM patients vs. mOS undefined in non-OM patients (p Discussion Incidence of detected OM was clinically significant, with most cases identified by PET/CT scans. Patients with type II EMCA, and in particular serous histology, were at a significantly higher risk of developing OM. OM when present, is an indicator of aggressive cancer biology and poor prognosis. Further studies are needed to ascertain the mechanism of predisposition to OM formation in serous EMCA and to confirm PET/CT as modality of choice for detection of OM.
The Effect of COVID-19 on Training and Case Volume of Vascular Surgery Trainees.

Background:In many facilities, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic caused suspension of elective surgery. We therefore sought to determine the impact of this on the surgical experience of v...
Proposed A 2 C 2 S 2 -VASc score for predicting atrial fibrillation development in patients with atrial flutter.

Aims The clinical outcome and threshold of oral anticoagulation differs between patients with solitary atrial flutter (AFL) and those with AFL developing atrial fibrillation (AF) (AFL-DAF). We therefore investigated previously unevaluated predictors of AF development in patients with AFL, and also the predictive values of risk scores in predicting the occurrence of AF and ischaemic stroke. Methods and results Participants were those diagnosed with AFL between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2013. Patients were classified into solitary AFL and AFL-DAF groups during follow-up. Finally, 4101 patients with solitary AFL and 4101 patients with AFL-DAF were included after 1:1 propensity score matching with CHA2DS2-VASc scores and their components, AFL diagnosis year and other comorbidities. The group difference in the prevalence of ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and congestive heart failure (CHF) was substantial, that of vascular disease was moderate, and that of diabetes and hypertension was negligible. Therefore, we reweighted the component of heart failure as 2 (the same with stroke/TIA) and vascular disease as 1 in the proposed A2C2S2-VASc score. The proposed A2C2S2-VASc and CHA2DS2-VASC scores showed patients with AFL who had higher delta scores and follow-up scores had higher risk of AF development. The delta score outperformed the follow-up score in both scoring systems in predicting ischaemic stroke. Conclusion This study showed that new-onset CHF, stroke/TIA and vascular disease were predictors of AF development in patients with AFL. The dynamic score and changes in both CHA2DS2-VASC and the proposed A2C2S2-VASc score could predict the development of AF and ischaemic stroke.
Three-dimensional quantification of cerebral vasculature in mouse brains with confocal microscopy

Cerebral microbleeds (CMB) are deposits of blood that accumulate within the brain. An increase in CMBs is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and stroke. The types of vessels associated with CMB formation remains unclear. We recently demonstrated the combined use of exogenous labels, vessel painting, and optical clearing to achieve three-dimensional views of blood vessels and CMBs. Here, we aimed to characterize brain vasculature by quantifying key vasculature-related metrics. An automated algorithm was developed to segment blood vessels within fluorescence images. An open-source neuron tracing software, neuTube, was then used to quantify blood vessel diameters.
Gathering local ecological knowledge to augment scientific and management understanding of a living coastal resource: The case of Oregon’s nearshore groundfish trawl fishery

Abstract Globally, coastal nearshore regions are an intersecting point for human and biological productivity, often serving as hotspots for subsistence, commercial, and recreational fishing activities. Despite this, many nearshore areas remain poorly understood, monitored or managed. This case study examined the nearshore sector of Oregon’s groundfish trawl fishery, which exists in shallow estuarine and continental shelf habitats common along the West Coast of North America; areas that are important for early life history stages of many commercial and recreational fisheries. The West Coast groundfish fishery includes over 90 different species, 40 of which occur within Oregon’s nearshore (here defined as the portion of the shelf extending seaward to a water depth of 200 m). The very shallow portions of the Oregon Coast (the area of the shelf inshore of 55 m) have been subject to limited scientific survey monitoring, and much of the details of the ecology, health, and processes in these habitats remain poorly understood. The utilization of the nearshore region by the commercial groundfish trawl fleet is also minimally documented despite the fact that experiential knowledge (local ecological knowledge [LEK]; trawl logbooks, fish tickets, interviews) exists. This research explored the capacity of capturing LEK sources to inform and enhance understanding of the drivers of effort and the vitality of nearshore fishery resources. Our approach used statistical analysis and mapping of nearshore trawl effort from 1981 to 2017 and gathered semi-structured interviews of intergenerational fishermen to bolster data-poor areas. Insights provided by sampling strategies and historical to current knowledge of access to groundfish assemblages provide informed baselines for future management. Spatial mapping results revealed a decline in trawl effort on the Oregon continental shelf thought time. Logbook and interview data assessment illuminated market and ecological drivers of fishing behavior as well as a unique sector of the groundfish fleet in Oregon: the beach fleet, with unique market and socio-economic challenges. Findings indicate a mixed-methods approach can provide a more thorough assessment of long-term interest in Oregon’s nearshore groundfish fishery. Ensuring better understanding of coastal interfacing regions such as Oregon’s nearshore insights potential for better conservation and utilization of marine resources and improved monitoring in resource limited management contexts.
High-Q ultrasensitive integrated photonic sensors based on slot-ring resonator on a 3C-SiC-on-insulator platform.

We demonstrate, to the best of our knowledge, the first high-Q silicon carbide (SiC) integrated photonic sensor based on slot-ring resonators on a 3C-SiC-on-insulator (SiCOI) platform. We experimentally demonstrate an intrinsic Q of 17,400 at around 1310 nm wavelength for a slot-ring resonator with 40 µm radius with water cladding. By applying different concentrations of a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution that covers the devices, measured bulk sensitivities of 264–300 nm/RIU (refractive index unit) are achieved in the slot-ring resonator with a 400–450 nm rail width and a 100–200 nm slot width. The device performance for biomolecular layer sensing (BMLS) is proved by the detection of the cardiac biomarker troponin with 248–322 pm/nm surface sensitivity. The reported slot-ring resonators can be of great interest for diverse sensing applications from visible to infrared wavelengths.
A Call for Action: An Analysis of the Impending Regulatory Crisis in the Municipal Securities Market

This Article warns of an impending regulatory crisis in the municipal securities market. The municipal securities market is an integral tool that allows state and local governments to implement important public interest projects by appealing to retail investors seeking tax-exempt income. Its regulation has garnered little attention – aside from the market’s characterization as “sleepy.” However, the market has grown exponentially and today’s market is increasingly populated with complex financial instruments. Quite simply, its regulation has not kept pace with developments in the market. Municipal securities issuers are not subject to the general registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and Securities Exchange Act of 1934. And, the Tower Amendment broadly curtails efficient regulation in the municipal securities market. Thus, regulators are hamstrung in their efforts to ensure investor protection and disclosure. As a result, municipal securities regulation is applied through the “backdoor” with rules aimed at brokers, dealers, and underwriters that participate in the market. After examining the faultiness of such a regulatory structure, this Article analyzes the increasing stresses on the municipal securities market. Investors face growing default risk as state and local governments face increasing financial stresses. Also, there is mounting evidence that the “backdoor” regulatory approach is failing to provide investors with adequate disclosure. The sparse regulatory enforcement in the market verifies the regime’s inadequacies. Lastly, even if the existing regime were to be enforced in court, this Article argues that the Tower Amendment would likely render some of the disclosure requirements invalid. Thus, this Article finds that the existing state of municipal securities regulation is grossly unacceptable and it concludes with a “call for action” to help curtail an impending regulatory crisis that seems but a matter of time.
Focal liver lesions: Practical magnetic resonance imaging approach

With the widespread of cross-sectional imaging, a growth of incidentally detected focal liver lesions (FLL) has been observed. A reliable detection and characterization of FLL is critical for optimal patient management. Maximizing accuracy of imaging in the context of FLL is paramount in avoiding unnecessary biopsies, which may result in post-procedural complications. A tremendous development of new imaging techniques has taken place during these last years. Nowadays, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a key role in management of liver lesions, using a radiation-free technique and a safe contrast agent profile. MRI plays a key role in the non-invasive correct characterization of FLL. MRI is capable of providing comprehensive and highly accurate diagnostic information, with the additional advantage of lack of harmful ionizing radiation. These properties make MRI the mainstay for the noninvasive evaluation of focal liver lesions. In this paper we review the state-of-the-art MRI liver protocol, briefly discussing different sequence types, the unique characteristics of imaging non-cooperative patients and discuss the role of hepatocyte-specific contrast agents. A review of the imaging features of the most common benign and malignant FLL is presented, supplemented by a schematic representation of a simplistic practical approach on MRI.
Fas Signaling in Macrophages Promotes Chronicity in K/BxN Serum–Induced Arthritis

Objective A nonapoptotic role of Fas signaling has been implicated in the regulation of inflammation and innate immunity. This study was undertaken to elucidate the contribution of Fas signaling in macrophages to the development of arthritis. Methods K/BxN serum–transfer arthritis was induced in a mouse line in which Fas was conditionally deleted in the myeloid lineage (CreLysMFasflox/flox mice). The arthritis was assessed clinically and histologically. Expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), CXCL5, IL-10, IL-6, and gp96 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Bone marrow–derived macrophages were activated with IL-1β and gp96. Cell phenotype and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results Arthritis onset in CreLysMFasflox/flox mice was comparable with that observed in control mice; however, resolution was accelerated during the chronic phase. The attenuated arthritis was associated with reduced articular expression of the endogenous Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) ligand gp96 and the neutrophil chemotactic chemokine CXCL5, and enhanced expression of IL-10. Activation with IL-1β or gp96 induced increased IL-10 expression in Fas-deficient murine macrophages compared with control macrophages. IL-10 suppressed IL-6 and CXCL5 expression induced by IL-1β plus gp96. IL-1β–mediated activation of ERK, which regulates IL-10 expression, was increased in Fas-deficient mouse macrophages. Conclusion Taken together, our findings indicate that impaired Fas signaling results in enhanced expression of antiinflammatory IL-10 and reduced expression of gp96, and these effects are associated with accelerated resolution of inflammation during the chronic phase of arthritis. These observations suggest that strategies to reduce endogenous TLR ligands and increase IL-10 may be beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Dechanneling from damage clusters in heavy ion irradiated gold

The dechanneling of a well aligned beam of light particles can be initiated through interaction with a variety of crystal defects(1). Examples of such defects are displaced atoms, stacking faults, dislocations and clusters of vacancies or interstitial s. Radiation damage in metals bombarded by heavy ions is characterized by very low concentrations of free interstitials and rather high concentrations of defect clusters. In gold, the large clusters are of the vacancy type. Direct backscattering from defect clusters is generally not observable; however, dechanneling of an aligned beam can be induced by such defect clusters and has been observed for a variety of experimental conditions(2,3).
Approximation algorithms for layered multicast scheduling

Layered multicast is a scalable solution to data dissemination in heterogeneous networks such as the Internet. In this paper, we study the scheduling problem arising in the layered multicast context. Our goal is to generate a multicast schedule for two different objectives, i.e., to minimize the weighted sum (the L1 objective) of the per-layer average waiting time, and to minimize the maximum approximation ratio (the L∞ objective) of the subschedules on individual layers. Compared to the previous work on multicast scheduling, this paper addresses the data popularity and the interaction among layers simultaneously. We present a simple randomized algorithm for both objectives of the layered multicast scheduling problem. For the L1 objective, we provide a deterministic 2-approximation algorithm for the general multi-layer cases. For the L∞ objective, we present an algorithm for the two-layer case which is 1.6875-approximation ignoring an additive constant.
Random exchange of nucleons and one-body dissipation in nuclear fission

The problems of spontaneous and induced fission and fusion-fission reactions are analysed in terms of a classical model derived from TDHF plus random exchange of nucleons through the neck. Shell effects are included by modifying the Randrup window formula. The recently discovered subshell closures (N, Z=38, 64) are shown to be important to reproduce mass distributions of fissioning nuclei. The problem of fast fission is analysed within the same approach. A qualitative-quantitative agreement with experiments is found.
Weapons test seismic investigations at Yucca Mountain

Yucca Mountain, located on and adjacent to the Nevada Test Site, is being characterized as part of an ongoing effort to identify a potential high-level nuclear waste repository. This site will be subjected to seismic ground motions induced by underground nuclear explosions. A knowledge of expected ground motion levels from these tests will enable the designers to provide for the necessary structural support in the designs of the various components of the repository. The primary objective of the Weapons Test Seismic Investigation project is to develop a method to predict the ground motions expected at the repository site as a result of future weapons tests. This paper summarizes the data base presently assembled for the Yucca Mountain Project, characteristics of expected ground motions, and characterization of the two-dimensional seismic properties along paths between Yucca Mountain and the testing areas of the Nevada Test Site.
Time, Anthropology of

Sociocultural constructions of time and time-reckoning are central topics of anthrological inquiry. Many cultures lack an explicit category ‘time.’ Still, time is everywhere present, in numerous local figurations that may or may not evidence a few universal forms. This article offers a representative review of time cross-culturally that focuses on some of the important concepts, debates, and intriguing new areas of investigation. The article, by discussing possible universal configurations of time − e.g., human lifecycle and bodily processes, seasonality, celestial patterns, binary constructions, and the opposition between incremental/linear/irreversible and episodic/cyclical/repetitive forms of time. Next, some traditional anthropological ideas about time are discussed: time categories and conventions are ‘social representations’ that mirror the organization of society (e.g., kinship groups), the political manipulation of time, the existence of multiple or layered forms of time which are not necessarily integrated into a single unifying system, ritual versus mundane time, and the linguistic relativity of time. Finally, some recent topics of concern are addressed, specifically, the spatialization of time, embodied time, gendered time, and the ‘end’ of time.
Security and International Relations: Testing security theories: explaining the rise and demise of the Cold War

Hobbes, Clausewitz, and Thucydides laid the foundation for security studies. Their work has stood the test of time. They demonstrated that humans could step out of their own time and look beyond their own particular historically defined security problems to generalize about the security behavior of actors across different societies and eras. They compressed space and time in explaining security. If they can do that, there is no reason why we can't, too, and build on the foundations they laid to fit our times and needs. Security can be subject to systematic study. Generalizations can be validated by reference to the thinking, decisions, and actions of humans and their agents, like states and international organizations. This triumvirate has also shown that force and coercion have a distinctive logic. Whether it can be directed to human purposes depends on the ability of actors to discipline force to their strategic, political and socio-economic interests and moral aims. Absent meaning, value, and political purpose in directing the use or threat of violence, competing actors are induced to submit to its logic, unmixed and unconstrained by any other humanly created limit. They are led rationally toward Hobbes' endgame or a war of all against all or toward Clausewitz's more narrowly conceived conception of pure war, as a duel between two rivals to the death or the subjugation of one to the other.
Dormancy in white-grain mutants of Chinese Spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.).

Red wheats (Triticum aestivum L.) are generally more dormant and sprout resistant than white wheats. Whether this is caused by pleiotropic effectsof the red grain colour genes (R) on dormancy and coat colour, or to tight linkage between R and dormancy genes has not been fully resolved. To directly determine the effect of the R1 allele on dormancy, mutations were induced with sodium azide in a pure line selection of the red genotype (R1R1r2r2r3r3) Chinese Spring wheat. Two white mutants (CSW01, CSW02) were recovered from M 3 caryopses derived from approximately 20,000 M 2 plants. Both mutants were shown to be allelic to a domesticwhite genotype (r1r1r2r2r3r3). Except for seed coat colour, CSW01 and CSW02 are morphologically indistinguishable from the wild type and are presumed to be near isogenic lines of Chinese Spring. Freshly harvested grainsproduced under four different environments were evaluated for post-harvest dormancy. In all environments, intact caryopses of all three isolines exhibited high temperature dormancy typical of cereal species, although the red wild type consistently exhibited greater dormancy than the white mutant isolines. Dormancy was dissipated by afterripening in dry storage at 37 ° C in a similar manner for the red and white isolines. Excised embryos of the three isolines exhibited similar levels of dormancy and sensitivities to exogenous abscisic acid. These results indicate a functional R1 allele is not absolutely required for dormancy in wheat, but does enhance its expression in caryopses with dormant (sensitive) embryos
Genetic regulation of serum cytokines in systemic lupus erythematosus

Genetic association studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been extremely successful in recent years, identifying several loci associated with disease susceptibility. Much work remains to integrate these loci into the functional pathogenic pathways that characterize the disease. Our working hypothesis is that many genetic variations linked to SLE and autoimmunity mediate the risk of disease by altering cytokine profiles or responses to cytokine signaling. Genetic polymorphisms that affect cytokine signaling could alter thresholds for immune responses, resulting in proinflammatory presentation of self-antigens and the subsequent misdirection of adaptive immunity against self, which is observed in autoimmune disease. SLE is clinically heterogeneous and genetically complex, and we expect that individual genes and cytokine patterns will be more or less important to different disease manifestations and subgroups of patients. Defining these genotype-cytokine-phenotype relationships will increase our understanding of both initial disease pathogenesis as well as subsequent response/nonresponse to various therapies. In this review, we summarize some recent work in the area of SLE cytokine genetics and describe the implications for SLE, autoimmunity, and immune system homeostasis, which are revealed by these investigations.
Physician-delivered interventions for smoking cessation: Strategies for increasing effectiveness

If physicians and other health-care providers were able to facilitate long-term cessation in 1 of every 10 smokers--a safe estimate based on the outcomes of randomized physician-delivered intervention studies--almost 4 million smokers would become former smokers. Evidence from randomized trials and observational studies demonstrates that physicians who intervene with smokers have an impact on their cigarette-smoking behavior. Greater smoking cessation occurs as physician interventions become more intensive and contacts more frequent. Adding modalities such as counseling, self-help booklets, and nicotine-containing chewing gum appears to augment the effectiveness of advice alone. The consistent demonstration of the need for follow-up and the possible use of several modalities is not unlike the demonstrated components of effective overall management approaches to such medical problems as hypertension. Surveys have indicated that physicians often do not intervene because they experience a low success rate with smokers. Educational programs have demonstrated substantial success in training physicians to counsel smokers; therefore, new goals for medical education, house-staff training, and continuing medical education need to include the development of skills and office management practices that can be used by providers to facilitate health-promoting behaviors among their patients. This article reviews the impact of physician-delivered smoking interventions on smokers, physician attitudes toward intervention, and physicians' reported intervention practices. It identifies those strategies that have been demonstrated to be effective in an out-patient office setting and emphasizes the need for every smoker to be considered a candidate for intervention.
The Usefulness of the High Voltage Electron Microscope in Biomedical Ultrastructure Analysis

We now have the tools to quantitate and correctly interpret the size, shape, and distribution of organelles in cells. It appears likely that the results will require some changes in some basic assumptions of ultrastructural cytology. This should also result in some new biochemical hypotheses about control of cell metabolism.
State of Charge Estimation of Lithium-Ion Batteries Considering Model Bias and Parameter Uncertainties

Up to date, model and parameter uncertainties are generally overlooked by majority of researchers in the field of battery study. As a consequence, accuracy of the SOC estimation is dominated by the model fidelity and may vary from cell-to-cell. This paper proposes a systematic framework with associated methodologies to quantify the battery model and parameter uncertainties for more effective battery SOC estimation. Such a framework is also generally applicable for estimating other battery performances of interest (e.g. capacity and power capability). There are two major benefits using the proposed framework: i) consideration of the cell-to-cell variability, and ii) accuracy improvement of the low fidelity model comparable to the high fidelity without scarifying computational efficiency. One case study is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.© 2014 ASME
TOURISM IN REGIONS OF NATURAL RESOURCE DECLINE; A NEWFOUNDLAND CASE STUDY

Tourism is increasingly touted as a development opportunity for coastal and rural areas affected by natural resource decline. As commercial fisheries face depletion the world over, planners and governments look to tourism to help coastal communities recover from economic crisis, but little work has been done to explore if the investment in tourism can ever replace the full human ecological value of the fishery, including its impacts on a region’s culture, economy, and environment. This ethnographic study examines the impact of the 1992 cod moratorium on Newfoundland's coastal communities over the last 17 years, and particularly how marine heritage tourism has emerged as a model in the province's revitalization attempts. Because the cod moratorium triggered Newfoundland’s modern tourism industry, the island provides a finite time and space within which to study the impact of the industry on a rural place and its people. This study reports on dozens of interviews with Newfoundlanders involved in tourism and fisheries (including current and former fisherman and fish plant workers, boat captains, tour operators, community development and government representatives, residents, community leaders, academics, and front line staff at tourism destinations, visitor centers and museums). Interviews and first hand observations of marine tourism destinations show that marine heritage, in particular, has contributed to both the revitalization of devastated outports and the rise of tourism in these coastal communities. Though the study shows that tourism will never replace an exhausted natural resource, it can play an important role in the future of coastal and rural areas.
Understanding School Choice: Location as a Determinant of Charter School Racial, Economic, and Linguistic Segregation

The author analyzes the revealed school preferences of parents in the Washington, D.C., and asks, “What is the main determinant of charter school choice and how does it create racial, economic, and...
Gamma radiation effects on corrosion—I. Electrochemical mechanisms for the aqueous corrosion processes of austenitic stainless steels relevant to nuclear waste disposal in tuff☆

Abstract The effects of gamma irradiation on the corrosion mechanisms of 304L and 316L stainless steels in groundwater from a proposed nuclear waste repository site in tuffaceous rock are presented. When gamma irradiation is initiated, corrosion potential shifts in the positive direction are observed. These potential shifts are associated with the radiation-induced production of hydrogen peroxide. The electrochemical mechanisms involved in the corrosion potential shifts, as well as the subsequent effect on pitting resistance, are considered.
Accentuation of information processes and biases in group judgments integrating base-rate and case-specific information

This article investigates differences in the ways that groups and individuals apply information-processing strategies and fall prey to biases in their judgments. Judgments were made on probabilistic inference problems that involved base-rate and case-specific information. Consistent with hypotheses, when individuals neglect base-rate information in their probability judgments, groups accentuate this tendency. Moreover, when the source of case-specific information is inaccurate, individuals neglect the case-specific information, and groups accentuate this tendency with the base-rate information dominating their probability judgments. In addition, groups accentuate the strategies used by individuals to integrate the base-rate and case-specific information. These results provide strong support for a group accentuation tendency for the application of information-processing biases and the strategies used to integrate information. Discussion reflects upon the relationship of the results of this experiment with other research on base-rate neglect and group judgment. Underlying mechanisms and potential moderators of the group accentuation pattern are also discussed.
Mentor Attunement: An Approach to Successful School-based Mentoring Relationships

Despite the ongoing popularity and appeal of youth mentoring programs across myriad of contexts, the achievement of high quality relationships between adult volunteers and school-aged youth remains a vital challenge to the work of youth development professionals. This paper outlines the role of mentor attunement in the experience of relationships between volunteer adults and youth in schools. Through an in-depth, inductive analysis of qualitative data, including on-site observation of relationship development over time, attunement at varying levels is illustrated. Implications for future research and program development are discussed.
The Helix-Coil Kinetics of a Heteropeptide

We have measured the kinetics of the helix-coil transition for the synthetic 21-residue peptide Ac-WAAAH+(AAAR+A)3A-NH2 initiated by nanosecond laser temperature jumps. This peptide was designed with tryptophan in position 1 and histidine in position 5 so that the side chains interact when the backbone of residues 1−5 is α-helical. Histidine, when protonated, efficiently quenches tryptophan fluorescence providing a probe for the presence of helical structure. The kinetics measured throughout the melting transition are well-described by a single-exponential relaxation, with a rate of 3.3 × 106 s-1 at 301 K, the midpoint of the helix−coil transition. The rate increases with increasing temperature with an apparent activation energy of approximately 8 kcal/mol. To interpret these results we have fitted the equilibrium and kinetic data with the statistical mechanical model of Munoz et al. (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 1998, 95, 5872−5879). This model includes both variable helix propensities and side chain−si...
Theoretical analysis of an Al/sub 0.15/Ga/sub 0.85/As/In/sub 0.15/Ga/sub 0.85/As pseudomorphic HEMT using an ensemble Monte Carlo simulation

The calculations presented include the full details of the two-dimensional electron gas, nonstationary transport effects, real-space transfer, and the effects of the two-dimensional electric field profile. As a test of the accuracy with which the calculations successfully model a real device, the calculated current-voltage characteristic is compared to the experimentally measured data for a comparable device. Excellent agreement is obtained between the theory and experiment. The effect of velocity overshoot and real-space transfer on the device performance is investigated as a function of gate and drain bias. It is found that at under certain gate-bias conditions, real-space transfer into both the AlGaAs and GaAs layers occurs, leading to an enhanced substrate leakage current as well as lowered overall speed of performance. >
Metabolism of [1-14c]palmitic acid in the developing brain:Persistence of radioactivity in the carboxyl carbon

Abstract [1-14C]Palmitic acid was injected intraperitoneally into young rats (12–13 daysold) to study the label distribution over an extended period of 2 months during whichtime rapid growth and active myelination occurs. It was found that, 24 h after injection,brain palmitate still had 78% relative carboxyl activity. It was also noted thatlabel persisted in the carboxyl carbon of brain palmitate even after an extended periodof 2 months. Radioactivity distribution and specific activities of 18:0, 18:1, 20:4 and 22:6,conclusively showed that these fatty acids were synthesized by chain elongation.Similarly, radioactivity in the cholesterol fraction indicated that injected palmitatewas degraded to form radioactive acetate; thus it was surprising to find that radioactivityin brain palmitate was not redistributed by de novo synthesis from radioactiveacetate. Hypothetical possibilities for this finding are discussed.
Does yoga shape body, mind and spiritual health and happiness: Differences between yoga practitioners and college students

Background/Aims: To assess the body, mind and spirit differences between yoga students compared with college students. Materials and Methods: Mind, body and spirit survey instruments administered to the two groups. Results: Five indicators to measure mental wellness were significantly different between yoga practitioners and college students. On three of these five measures, college students reported more mental wellness than yoga practitioners - in other words, the relationship was the inverse of what was expected. College students reported maintaining stability in their life more often than yoga practitioners as well as more often experiencing satisfying interpersonal relationships. College students were also more likely than yoga practitioners to report being tolerant of others, whether or not they approved of their behavior or beliefs. Yoga practitioners were more likely than college students to report having strong morals and healthy values as well as the ability to express their feelings and consider the feelings of others. We found differences between yoga practitioners and college students on more than half of our spirit items (five of nine). Yoga practitioners were more likely than college students to report expressing their spirituality appropriately and in healthy ways, recognizing the positive contribution faith could make to the quality of life (significant at the 0.07 level), routinely undertaking new experiences to enhance spiritual health and having a positive outlook on life. Further, we found support for the proposition that yoga practitioners were more likely to report experiencing happiness within. Conclusions: Significant differences between yoga and college students were found on the body, mind and spirit measurement instrument. Further work needs to address the complexities of these relationships.
Investigation of the residual–funicular nonwetting-phase-saturation relation

Abstract The constitutive relation that describes the amount of nonwetting fluid phase entrapment is critical to the modeling of multiphase flow in porous media, but it has received insufficient attention in the literature. We studied this relation using both experimental and modeling approaches: we used a nondestructive, X-ray monitored, long-column experiment that yielded a rich data set for two different porous media; we also used a quasi-static network model to simulate the experimental data and examine mechanisms affecting the relation. The experimental work yielded a significant data set for residual nonwetting phase (NWP) saturation as a function of maximum funicular nonwetting phase saturation. We suggest a functional form that represents the observed data sets accurately. Network model calibration to experimental data yields acceptable model-data agreement and a clear understanding of constraints that should be satisfied when using such models to avoid physically unrealistic behavior. We found that the pore-throat-size characteristics and the snap-off process occurring in pore throats strongly influence the manifestation of pore-body-size characteristics during imbibition and nonwetting fluid phase entrapment. We examined an estimation method proposed by Wardlaw and Taylor for the residual–funicular relation. We observed that the method yields an unrealistic relation for each porous media in the long-column experiments, and we used network modeling to understand the criteria that ensure a realistic estimate.