cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
LATEST: Learning-Assisted Selectivity Estimation Over Spatio-Textual Streams

Selectivity and cardinality estimation are main driving factors for developing cheap query plans and ultimately faster query processing. Traditionally, database systems use estimation data structures, e.g., histograms, to maintain data summaries. Machine learning models have recently been employed, acting as black boxes, in several database tasks, including cardinality estimation. In the dynamic streaming environments, both estimation data structures and machine learning models struggle with adaptation for dynamic changes in data and query workloads. This paper proposes LATEST; a system module that uses machine learning to enable dynamic adaptation of estimation data structures. For spatial-keyword queries in a streaming environment, it shows on par or better performance than the state-of-the-art estimators. LATEST builds an incremental supervised learning model over a moving time window that helps the underlying system to switch among several estimation structures to keep estimation accuracy high at all times. As an incremental learner, LATEST effectively adapts to dynamic changes of both data and queries in streaming environments. Our extensive experiments on three real datasets and various query workloads verify the effectiveness of LATEST with higher accuracy and lower response times over the state-of-the-art estimators.
Intimate Partner Violence Risk and Intervention: Need for an International Lens

This chapter highlights the birth of this brief, as well as research on risk markers for intimate partner violence (IPV). Throughout my career, I have had many opportunities to provide international training on IPV. Through these trainings, it became increasingly clear that although IPV is a worldwide phenomenon, our understanding of IPV throughout the world differs substantially. In an effort to learn more about IPV from an international perspective, this brief was born. We invited authors from all over the world to contribute. Each of the authors had lived most of their lives in the country about which they were writing. Each of the authors we invited was pleased to be a part of this AFTA Springer Brief. We are excited to share this Springer Brief with you.
Das Röntgenbild des Herzens und der großen Gefäße

Hin und wieder, wenn auch nur selten, gibt die Betrachtung des Rontgenbildes vom Herzen, den grosen Gefasen und den Lungen erst endgultigen Aufschlus uber die Diagnose. Haufig bestatigen die Bilder aber lediglich die klinische Diagnose; zuweilen sind sie auch „negativ“ und tragen nicht zur Unterstutzung der Diagnose bei, die man in der Hoffnung, eine Bestatigung im Rontgenbild zu finden, gestellt hat. Dann mus man eben nach weiteren Indizien suchen. Aus diesem Grunde halte ich bei jeder Routineuntersuchung auch die Durchleuchtung fur wesentlich, obwohl sie mir nur selten den eigentlichen Schlussel zu einer Diagnose gebracht hat. Mir scheint aber dabei die Beobachtung der Bewegung des Herzens und der Aorta, der Lungenhili und des Zwerchfells doch sehr wertvoll; weiter empfiehlt sich eine einfache, orthodiagraphische Messung des transversalen Durchmessers des Herzens zu machen, um spater unter denselben Untersuchungsbedingungen vergleichen zu konnen. Solche Zahlen sind naturlich nur bis auf einen halben Zentimeter genau, aber es ist doch nutzlich, auf diese Weise immer wieder in gewissen Zeitabstanden den Durchmesser zu bestimmen und zu notieren, sowie eine allgemeine Beschreibung des bei der Durchleuchtung Gesehenen zu besitzen.
Wie) Lässt sich Organisationsberatung wissenschaftlich unterstützen

Organisationsforschung ist international, interdisziplinar und extrem facettenreich, so wie es auch die betrachteten Organisationen selbst sind. Die Umsetzung ihrer Erkenntnisse in die Praxis, die von den BMBF-geforderten Projekten erwartet wird, geschieht meist durch Beratung, aber wie das moglich ist, dazu gibt es verschiedene Auffassungen. Im Folgenden wird daher zuerst eine Klarung dieser Auffassungen vorgenommen und mit einem Beispiel verdeutlicht. Anschliesend werden die Grundlagen fur Verstehen, Verstandigung und Zusammenarbeit dargelegt, auf die Beratungen ebenso wie die beratene Praxis angewiesen sind, weil ohne sie Misserfolge vorprogrammiert sind. Beratung und Praxis benotigen auch ein wissenschaftlich bewahrtes und praktisch tragfahiges Grundverstandnis von Organisationen, das im dritten Abschnitt skizziert wird. Ein besonderer Augenmerk wird dabei auf die Frage gelegt, wie durch Beratung das Wissen in der Praxis erweitert werden kann und vor allem, wie den Organisationen geholfen werden kann selbst besseres Wissen zu generieren. Zum Abschluss werden einige Hinweise gegeben, wie wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse im Beratungsprozess eingesetzt und daraus gewonnen werden konnen.
High-Dose-Rate Monotherapy for Localized Prostate Cancer: 10-Year Results

Purpose High-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy was originally used with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) to increase the dose to the prostate without injuring the bladder or rectum. Numerous studies have reported HDR brachytherapy is safe and effective. We adapted it for use without EBRT for cases not requiring lymph node treatment. Patients and Methods We entered the patient demographics, disease characteristics, and treatment parameters into a prospective registry and serially added follow-up data for 448 men with low-risk (n=288) and intermediate-risk (n=160) prostate cancer treated from 1996 to 2009. Their median age was 64 years (range 42-90). The median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 6.0 ng/mL (range 0.2-18.2). The Gleason score was ≤6 in 76% and 7 in 24%. The median dose was 43.5 Gy in 6 fractions. The clinical and biochemical disease control and survival rates were calculated. Adverse events were graded according to the Common Toxicity Criteria of Adverse Events. Results The median follow-up period was 6.5 years (range 0.3-15.3). The actuarial 6- and 10-year PSA progression-free survival was 98.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 96.9%-99.4%) and 97.8% (95% CI 95.5%-98.9%). Overall survival at 10 years was 76.7% (95% CI 69.9%-82.2%). The local control, distant metastasis-free survival, and cause-specific survival were 99.7% (95% CI 97.9%-99.9%), 98.9% (95% CI 96.3%-99.7%), and 99.1% (95% CI 95.8%-99.8%). T stage, initial PSA level, Gleason score, National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk group, patient age, and androgen deprivation therapy did not significantly correlate with disease control or survival. No late grade 3 to 4 rectal toxicities developed. Late grade 3 to 4 genitourinary toxicity occurred in 4.9% (grade 3 in 4.7%). Conclusions HDR monotherapy is a safe and highly effective treatment of low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer.
HYDROCORTISONE AND/OR DESICCATED THYROID IN PHYSIOLOGIC DOSAGE. 13. CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM DURING LARGE DOSAGE THYROID (PROLOID) THERAPY.

Abstract A battery of tolerance tests which reflect carbohydrate metabolism (glucose, insulin, tolbutamide, acetohexamide and epinephrine) through changes in the levels of the blood sugar and serum inorganic phosphorus were largely unaffected by purified desiccated thyroid (Proloid) therapy which reached dosages of 25 grains per day in successive increments. Tentative interpretations are advanced to explain the few statistically significant changes that were induced by the administration of these large dosages of desiccated thyroid. Judging from blood sugar values the 5-hour glucose tolerance test was not altered by these large dosages of desiccated thyroid but such treatment was associated with a more prompt return of the serum inorganic phosphorus to or above the starting levels. The lessened hypophosphatemia during the glucose tolerance test observed in the course of dosage thyroid therapy could reflect decreased use of phosphorus in glycolysis, diminished segregation as a consequence of the formation of ATP, or enhanced deposition of glycogen without phosphorus in depleted tissues, alone or in combination. The equivalent but shortened hypoglycemic response to exogenous insulin observed during thyroid feeding was not accompanied by a more prompt return of serum inorganic phosphorus levels to the preinsulin values. Evidence from other studies that the biologic half-life of insulin is shortened by thyroid hormone excesses prompts the suggestion that this is responsible for the shortening of the hypoglycemia, but this does not explain the failure to observe a comparable shortening of the hypophosphatemic response to insulin. Trends to increased hypoglycemic and hypophosphatemic effects of tolbutamide and acetohexamide during thyroid hormone excesses could reflect islet cell hyperfunction or hyperplasia induced, perhaps, during prior thyroid feeding secondary to a shortening of the biologic half-life of insulin. The usual hyperglycemic-hypophosphatemic responses to exogenous epinephrine were enhanced by large dosages of desiccated thyroid, suggesting that despite such therapy hepatic and other glycogen stores were intact and readily mobilizable. It may be that the first response to thyroid hormone excesses is an enhancement of glycogenolysis and that glycogen depletion is a subsequent event.
Virus hemorrhagic fevers. Special reference to hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (epidemic hemorrhagic fever).

Summary Virus hemorrhagic fevers are being described from many parts of the world. The incidence of these disorders among children and adolescents has varied considerably in the different outbreaks. Cases among children were especially frequent in the mosquito-borne hemorrhagic fevers recently reported from the Far East. Children are more frequently infected with all of these agents than has been realized. The present synthesis attempts to clarify the numerous terms used to designate hemorrhagic fevers, to place these syndromes of acute infectious arthropod-transmitted virus diseases with associated hemorrhagic diatheses into proper relation with other common infectious diseases of childhood, and to suggest a less ambiguous classification than that currently used. The most important of these diseases, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, is described in some detail. More complete descriptions of other hemorrhagic fevers will be presented in a further publication.
Suboptimal prescribing in elderly outpatients: potentially harmful drug-drug and drug-disease combinations.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and correlates of potentially harmful drug-drug combinations and drug-disease combinations prescribed for elderly patients at outpatient settings. Design: Retrospective analysis of the 1995–2000 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) and the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS). Setting: Physician offices and hospital outpatient departments. Participants: Outpatient visits by patients aged 65 and older in the NAMCS and NHAMCS (n=70,203). Measurements: Incidences of six drug-drug combinations and 50 drug-disease combinations that can place elderly patients at risk for adverse events according to expert consensus panels. Results: Overall, 0.74% (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.65–0.83) of visits with two or more prescriptions had at least one inappropriate drug-drug combination, and 2.58% (95% CI=2.44–2.72) of visits with at least one prescription had one or more inappropriate drug-disease combinations. Of visits with a prescription of warfarin, 6.60% (95% CI=5.46–7.74) were prescribed a drug with potentially harmful interaction. Of patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy, 4.06% (95% CI=3.06–5.06) had at least one of six drugs that should be avoided. The number of drugs prescribed is most predictive of inappropriate drug-drug and drug-disease combinations. Conclusion: Potentially harmful drug-drug and drug-disease combinations occur in various degrees in outpatient care in the elderly population. Targeting combinations such as those involving warfarin that are high in prevalence and potential harm offers a practical approach to improving prescribing and patient safety.
Soil Stabilization and Grouting

Soil stabilization and grouting are methods of soil improvement. Soil improvement is a combination of physical and chemical methods for regional or mass densification, reinforcement, cementation, and control of drainage and volume stability of soil when it is used as a construction material.
Stress and strain analysis of metal plates with holes

For our long-term goal of understanding how metal connectors used for housing respond to hurricanes’ wind load, we have conducted Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to compute the stress and strain distributions in tensile-loaded, aluminum and tin plates with holes. The specimen is 20 - 25 mm wide, 0.1 - 10 mm thick, and 100 mm long in the direction of the tensile axis along which two holes are drilled. In addition, we have conducted tensile experiment using an optical interferometer and analyzed the in-plane strain field. Comparison of the FEA and experiments indicate that band-like interferometric fringe patterns representing strain concentration coincide with the region where the von-Mises yield criterion is satisfied, and that the specimen fractures at the hole that shows more concentrated plastic strain. Experimental results show that in the tin samples the fracture lines run through the hole perpendicularly to the tensile axis, while in the aluminum samples the fracture lines run about 45 degrees to the tensile axis. Results of the corresponding FEA are consistent with this observation, showing that the plastic strain patterns observed in the tin samples are much more horizontal than those in the aluminum samples.
The network approach and interventions to prevent HIV among injection drug users.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To review human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk reduction interventions among injecting drug users (IDUs) that have adopted a network approach. METHODS: The design and outcomes of selected network-based interventions among IDUs are reviewed using the network concepts of the dyad (two-person relationship), the personal risk network (an index person and all of his or her relationship), and the "sociometric" network (the complete set of relations between people in a population) and community. RESULTS: In a dyad intervention among HIV-serodiscordant couples, many of which included IDUs, there were no HIV seroconversions. Participants in personal risk network interventions were more likely to reduce drug risks and in some of these interventions, sexual risks, than were participants in individual-based interventions. Sociometric network interventions reached more IDUs and may be more cost-effective than individual-based interventions. CONCLUSION: Network-based HIV risk reduction interventions among IDUs, and others at risk for HIV, hold promise and should be encouraged.
Development of 20 integrated energy efficiency ratio rooftop units—system modeling and building energy simulations

Based on a detailed steady-state system and component modeling, a rooftop unit system design was developed that is can achieve an integrated energy efficiency rating higher than 20. Fin-and-tube and microchannel heat exchangers were modeled using a segment-to-segment approach, and an AHRI 10-coefficient compressor map used to simulate compressor performance. The system modeling is based on a component-based modeling approach, which facilitates flexible simulation of complicated system configurations. Starting with a baseline system having integrated energy efficiency rating of 16.6, numerous technical options were extensively investigated, i.e., varying compressor sizes, heat exchanger fin densities, fin-and-tube or microchannel heat exchanger, suction line heat exchanger, desiccant wheel, tandem compressor (TD), variable-speed compressor (VS), and condenser evaporative pre-cooling; an innovative system configuration was developed by combining a tandem compression system with a variable-speed compression ...
Connection and Disconnection: Value of the Analyst's Subjectivity in Elucidating Meaning in a Psychoanalytic Case Study

This article reflects on pivotal concepts of psychoanalytic practice and theory, applied to a single case study to create new meanings. Drawing from the concepts of transference, countertransference, and projective identification, the author presents the notion that the researcher's subjective reactions are created and induced by the subject of study precisely because this is one, and sometimes the only way available to the subject to communicate something that is out of its full awareness. In essence, some unconscious material can be expressed nonverbally by the subject by means of provoking visceral and bodily reactions in the researcher, or in some cases, psychic imagery such as dreams or fantasies. The material can be meaningfully interpreted by the researcher by receiving, containing, and sorting through these inchoate emotional reactions within self.
Neural network learning paradigms involving nonlinear spectral processing

Two neural network architectures involving nonlinear spectral transformations are described. The first architecture involves generalization of nonlinear matched-filtering techniques, yielding a network that is very fast in learning and recall as well as highly accurate in classification. The second architecture is hierarchical with a number of stages; after each stage, error detection is carried out, followed by nonlinear spectral transformations when the error measure is above threshold. >
Time‐dependent dike propagation from joint inversion of seismicity and deformation data

Dike intrusions both deform Earth's surface and induce propagating earthquake swarms. We develop methods to utilize both deformation and seismicity from brittle, volcano-tectonic earthquakes to image time-dependent dike propagation. Dieterich's (1994) seismicity-rate theory is used to relate dike-induced stress changes to seismicity rate and is combined with elastic Green's functions relating dike opening to deformation. Different space-time patterns of seismicity develop if earthquakes occur at the same depth as the dike compared to above/below the dike. In the former, seismicity initiates near the dike's leading edges but shuts off as the dike tips pass and seismogenic volumes fall into stress shadows. In the latter, seismicity continues at a decaying rate after the tips pass. We focus on lateral propagation and develop a nonlinear inversion method that estimates dike length and pressure as a function of time. The method is applied to the 2007 Father's Day intrusion in Kilauea Volcano. Seismicity is concentrated at ∼3 km depth, comparable to geodetic estimates of dike depth, and decays rapidly in time. With lateral propagation only and a vertical dike-tip line, it is difficult to fit both GPS data and the rapid down-rift jump in seismicity, suggesting significant vertical propagation. For the events to have occurred below the dike requires a very short aftershock decay time, hence unreasonably high background stressing rate. The rapid decay is better explained if the dike extends somewhat below the seismicity. We suggest that joint inversion is useful for studying the diking process and may allow for improved short-term eruption forecasts.
Computer-Based Training: A Cognitive Framework for Evaluating Systems' Designs

The present review encompasses approximately twenty years of research in computer-based training. This includes the initial development of these training systems based on behavioral principles to m...
The sampling theory of selectively neutral alleles.

Abstract In this paper a beginning is made on the sampling theory of neutral alleles. That is, we consider deductive and subsequently inductive questions relating to a sample of genes from a selectively neutral locus. The inductions concern estimation, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. In particular the test of the hypothesis that the alleles being sampled are indeed selectively neutral will be considered. In view of the large amount of data currently being obtained by electrophoretic methods on allele frequencies and numbers, and the current interest in the possibility of extensive “non-Darwinian” evolution, such a sampling theory seems necessary. However, a large number of unsolved problems in this area remain, a partial listing being given towards the end of this paper.
Does food web theory work for marine ecosystems

More recent and extensive food web studies have questioned some of the prevailing paradigms of food web theory. Yet with few exceptions, most food webs and associated metrics are reported for freshwater or terrestrial systems. I analyzed the food web of the Northeast US Shelf ecosystem across a large spatial and temporal extent. This speciose food web exhibits a predator:prey ratio (0.95) and percentage of intermediate species (89%) similar to most other food webs. Other statistics, such as the percentage of omnivory (62%), percentage of cannibalistic species (31%), num- ber of cycles (5%), and the total number of links (L; 1562) and species (S; 81) are similar to more recent and extensively studied food webs. Finally, this food web exhibits a linkage density (L/S; 19.3), connectivity (C; 48.2%), and Lyapunov stability proxy (S × C; 39.1) that are an order of magnitude higher than other webs or are disproportionate to the number of species observed in this system. Although the exact S and C relationship is contentious, the connectivity of food webs with more than 40 species is approximately 10%, which is very different from the near 50% observed for this ecosys- tem. The openness of marine ecosystems, lack of specialists, long lifespans, and large size changes across the life histories of many marine species can collectively make marine food webs more highly connected than their terrestrial and freshwater counterparts, contrary to food web theory. Changes in connectivity also have ramifications for ecosystem functioning and Lyapunov stability. The high con- nectivity of this food web and the mathematical determinants for stability are consistent with the weak nature of species interactions that have been observed and that are required for system persis- tence. Yet the historically high exploitation rates of marine organisms obfuscate our understanding of marine food web stability. It is possible that marine food webs are inherently very different from their terrestrial or freshwater counterparts, implying the need for modified paradigms of food web theory.
Comparison of the Multipeak and Spectral Peak Speech Coding Strategies of the NucleusTM 22-Channel Cochlear Implant System

Eight subjects participated in a comparison of the multipeak (MPEAK) and spectral peak (SPEAK) speech coding strategies of the NucleusTM 22-channel cochlear implant system as part of a long-term mo...
Gsta4 Null Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts Exhibit Enhanced Sensitivity to Oxidants: Role of 4-Hydroxynonenal in Oxidant Toxicity

The alpha class glutathione s-transferase (GST) isozyme GSTA4-4 (EC2.5.1.18) exhibits high catalytic efficiency towards 4-hydroxynon-2-enal (4-HNE), a major end product of oxidative stress induced lipid peroxidation. Exposure of cells and tissues to heat, radiation, and chemicals has been shown to induce oxidative stress resulting in elevated concentrations of 4-HNE that can be detrimental to cell survival. Alternatively, at physiological levels 4-HNE acts as a signaling molecule conveying the occurrence of oxidative events initiating the activation of adaptive pathways. To examine the impact of oxidative/electrophilic stress in a model with impaired 4-HNE metabolizing capability, we disrupted the Gsta4 gene that encodes GSTA4-4 inmice. The effect of electrophile and oxidants on embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) isolated from wild type (WT) and Gsta4 null mice were examined. Results indicate that in the absence of GSTA4-4, oxidant-induced toxicity is potentiated and correlates with elevated accumulation of 4-HNE adducts and DNA damage. Treatment of Gsta4 null MEF with 1,1,4-tris(acetyloxy)-2(E)-nonene [4-HNE(Ac)3], a pro-drug form of 4-HNE, resulted in the activation and phosphorylation of the c-jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (ERK 1/2) and p38 mitogen activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) accompanied by enhanced cleavage of caspase-3. Interestingly, when recombinant mammalian or invertebrate GSTs were delivered to Gsta4 null MEF, activation of stress-related kinases in 4-HNE(Ac)3 treated Gsta4 null MEF were inversely correlated with the catalytic efficiency of delivered GSTs towards 4-HNE. Our data suggest that GSTA4-4 plays a major role in protecting cells from the toxic effects of oxidant chemicals by attenuating the accumulation of 4-HNE.
In vivo evaluation of a noninvasive method to measure the retinal thickness in primates.

• To diagnose certain macular diseases earlier and monitor their therapy more sensitively, we are developing a noninvasive method to measure the retinal thickness. The new instrument, which is an extension of slit-lamp biomicroscopy, was used to obtain the data, which were analyzed with an algorithm to yield thickness measurements. The measurements performed in monkeys indicated that the retinal thickness can be visualized in a region extending from the optic disc to the fovea and that quantitative results can be obtained. The retinal thickness reproducibility was 6% for the same location on the same day, 15% for the same location on different days, and 12% for the same location in different eyes. The average retinal thickness in these areas was 335 μm, indicating that the reproducibility was between 20 and 50 μm. Measurements across the foveola illustrated that retinal thicknesses as low as 80 μm could be obtained.
Reconsidering the Effects of Bonding Social Capital: A Closer Look at Black Civil Society Institutions in America

Few studies consider how Putnam’s bridging and bonding social capital arguments apply to voluntary associations within American minority group communities. Consequently, I examine African-American civic groups to explore Putnam’s claims about the potential negative political effects of bonding social capital. In contrast to the bonding social capital thesis, I argue that black communal associations encourage African-Americans to be involved in a variety of mainstream civic and political activities that reach beyond their own group interests. Using the 1993–1994 National Black Politics Study I demonstrate that although black organizations are predominantly composed of African-Americans and work to advance their interests, these goals are not pursued at the expense of connecting blacks to others in the general polity.
The effect of height on paclitaxel nerve damage

Dying-back neuropathies result in sensory loss and motor signs in the distal distribution of the longest nerves of the body. It would be expected, therefore, that taller individuals with dying-back neuropathies would tend to have worse nerve damage than shorter individuals. This hypothesis was tested in patients receiving high dose paclitaxel. Nerve conductions and quantitative sensory tests were obtained in 21 breast cancer subjects, prior to and 20–40 days after 725 mg/m2 paclitaxel administered intravenously over 24 h. Despite the uniform dose of paclitaxel, there was a wide variation in post minus pre-paclitaxel changes. Analysis by linear regression showed that decrease of peroneal nerve compound muscle action potential amplitude was significantly greater in taller subjects (P=0.004), and increase in cold detection threshold was greater in taller subjects (P=0.02). No correlation with height was found for paclitaxel drug clearance, maximum concentration, and area under the curve. Decrease in sural sensory nerve action potential amplitude and increase in vibration detection threshold did not correlate with height. In summary, the wide variation of changes seen in neurophysiological tests suggests that multiple factors are involved in determining the severity of neuropathy. Nerve length is probably one of these factors. To determine whether the effect of height is clinically important would require additional study with a larger number of subjects and longer clinical follow-up.
Cancer prevention by retinoids: Role of immunological modification

Abstract High retinoid intakes have be associated with decreased risk of cancer. In addition retinoids are immunomodulating compounds. A mechanism to help explain their anticancer action may be immunosuppression during vitamin A deficiency or immunoenhancement extremely high intakes. Some conditions such as Schistosomiasis are associated with increased cancer risk, immunosuppressions, and low vitamin A levels in serum. In vitro , retinol suppressed T-lymphocyte functions. However, high dietary vitamin A enhanced macrophage functions, which may help explain greater cancer resistance.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis Identifies Candidate Genes Associated with Iron Deficiency Chlorosis in Soybean

Iron defi ciency chlorosis (IDC) is a signifi cant yield-limiting problem in several major soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production regions in the United States. Soybean plants display a variety of symptoms that range from a slight yellowing of the leaf to interveinal chlorosis, to stunted growth that reduces yield. The objective of this analysis was to employ single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based genome-wide association mapping to uncover genomic regions associated with IDC tolerance. Two populations [2005 (n = 143) and 2006 (n = 141)] were evaluated in replicated, multilocation IDC trials. After controlling for population structure and individual relatedness, and selecting statistical models that minimized false positives, 42 and 88 loci, with minor allele frequency >10%, were signifi cant in 2005 and 2006, respectively. The loci accounted for 74.5% of the phenotypic variation in IDC in2005 and 93.8% of the variation in 2006. Nine loci from seven genomic locations were signifi cant in both years. These loci accounted for 43.7% of the variation in 2005 and 47.6% in 2006. A number of the loci discovered here mapped at or near previously discovered IDC quantitative trait loci (QTL). A total of 15 genes known to be involved in iron metabolism mapped in the vicinity (<500 kb) of signifi cant markers in one or both populations. T
Do PR Practitioners Have a PR Problem?: The Effect of Associating a Source With Public Relations and Client-Negative News on Audience Perception of Credibility

Through a 2 × 2 factorial experiment (N = 141), information source type (public relations spokesperson or generic spokesperson) and message topic (client-neutral and client-negative) were varied to determine whether they affect audience perception of source credibility. Results suggest public relations professionals and the organizations they represent are perceived as less credible than unidentified sources and their employers. Also, sources and their sponsors communicating organization-negative news are perceived as less credible than those communicating client-neutral information.
Marital Therapy With Parents to Alleviate Behavioral Disorders in Their Children

This study examined the effects of couples psychotherapy with parents whose 5- to 12-year-old children misbehaved in school. An experimental group of 23 parents was compared to an alternative-treat...
Lis1 is essential for cortical microtubule organization and desmosome stability in the epidermis

Desmosomes are cell–cell adhesion structures that integrate cytoskeletal networks. In addition to binding intermediate filaments, the desmosomal protein desmoplakin (DP) regulates microtubule reorganization in the epidermis. In this paper, we identify a specific subset of centrosomal proteins that are recruited to the cell cortex by DP upon epidermal differentiation. These include Lis1 and Ndel1, which are centrosomal proteins that regulate microtubule organization and anchoring in other cell types. This recruitment was mediated by a region of DP specific to a single isoform, DPI. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the epidermal-specific loss of Lis1 results in dramatic defects in microtubule reorganization. Lis1 ablation also causes desmosomal defects, characterized by decreased levels of desmosomal components, decreased attachment of keratin filaments, and increased turnover of desmosomal proteins at the cell cortex. This contributes to loss of epidermal barrier activity, resulting in completely penetrant perinatal lethality. This work reveals essential desmosome-associated components that control cortical microtubule organization and unexpected roles for centrosomal proteins in epidermal function.
Coupled Model Simulations of the West African Monsoon System: Twentieth- and Twenty-First-Century Simulations

Abstract The ability of coupled GCMs to correctly simulate the climatology and a prominent mode of variability of the West African monsoon is evaluated, and the results are used to make informed decisions about which models may be producing more reliable projections of future climate in this region. The integrations were made available by the Program for Climate Model Diagnosis and Intercomparison for the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The evaluation emphasizes the circulation characteristics that support the precipitation climatology, and the physical processes of a “rainfall dipole” variability mode that is often associated with dry conditions in the Sahel when SSTs in the Gulf of Guinea are anomalously warm. Based on the quality of their twentieth-century simulations over West Africa in summer, three GCMs are chosen for analysis of the twenty-first century integrations under various assumptions about future greenhouse gas increases. Each of these models behav...
One City—Two Giants: Armstrong and Sarnoff [DSP History]

As an avid reader, crazy-gadget-loving engineer, and history enthusiast, I bought a US$1 paperback when I was a graduate student in 1969 titled Man of High Fidelity, the 1969 paperback version of the 1956 biography of Edwin Howard Armstrong by Lawrence Lessing. The story told within was so fascinating that I needed to learn more, so I borrowed a copy (it had been given to an outstanding Radio Corporation of America (RCA) researcher by Sarnoff himself) of the commissioned autobiography of David Sarnoff written by his cousin, Eugene Lyons, published in 1966. It was clear that these two giants of their time had lives that intermingled over more than 40 years.
Drawing of Spatially Oriented Electrospun Fibers

A simple approach to electrospinning has been developed that enables the collection of polymer, ceramic, and multiphase composite fibers, in quantity, with a high degree of spatial orientation. It has been demonstrated that a careful choice of solvent effectively eliminates the onset of the characteristic “bending” instability that is commonly associated with the electrospinning process. This allows collection of spatially oriented submicron electrospun fibers on a rotating drum without the need for elaborate mechanical or electrostatic manipulation of the electrospinning jet and/or collection target. Fibers have been electrospun from a series of model polyethylene oxide/CHCL3 solutions with a range of conductivities. The experimental data confirms theoretical predictions that the onset of the bending instability is a function of the available “free” charge in the solution, which in turn is strongly influenced by the dielectric constant of the solvent. The results show that fiber orientation becomes random as the conductivity increases, indicating the need for the surface charge density to exceed a critical threshold in order for the bending instability to initiate. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that fiber diameter can be effectively controlled by controlling drum take-up speed. This method has been experimentally demonstrated with other low dielectric constant solvents and other common polymer, ceramic, composite materials.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Raman Spectrum and Structure of N2F4

The Raman spectra of liquid N2F4 at temperatures ranging from −80° to −150°C have been recorded. Depolarization values have been measured. The far‐infrared spectrum of the vapor and solid has also been reinvestigated. Seventeen pronounced Raman lines have been observed whereas the C2 isomer of tetrafluorohydrazine has only 12 fundamentals. The large number of Raman lines suggests the presence of more than one isomer at −120°C. A comparison of the infrared and Raman bands below 800 cm− 1 shows the mutual exclusion principle is operative and it is concluded from this alternate forbiddeness that the trans‐N2F4 isomer of C2h symmetry gives rise to these mutually exclusive bands. Assignment of the observed frequencies based on depolarization values, band positions, and infrared band contours are presented for the molecule in both the C2 and C2h configurations. It is shown that the data can only be interpreted in terms of an equilibrium mixture of the two isomers at both ambient and lower temperatures, and that...
Abstract machines and software design

A recent trend in operating system design [1,2,6,7] is to consider the design as a hierarchy of abstract machines. The problem is viewed as constructing a “users' machine” from a given hardware machine by means of software. Rather than do this in one large step, a progression of abstract machines are defined starting at the hardware machine and ending with the users' machine. Each new machine is “built from” the earlier machines, adding to their capabilities.This approach appears to be a strong positive step toward bringing more discipline to the software development process. Liskov [6, 7] carefully documents the advantages. She also tries to establish formal rules to guide the process and relates this approach to structured programming [3, 8].
A New Improved Method for Collecting Samples for Somatomedin C Determination

The current specimen collection for the determination of Somatomedin C requires venipuncture, centrifugation, then serum or plasma separation followed by shipment to a laboratory performing the assay. Collection of capillary blood on specially prepared filter paper followed by air drying and mailing to the laboratory, removes all the steps of the traditional approach. Upon receipt by the laboratory, a 1/8″ disc is cut in the dot and the blood eluted by a buffer. The volume of blood in the 1/8″ dot is 0.15 microliters of plasma (Neonatal Screening programs). The radioimmunoassay is then performed using second antibody separation technique following a sequential immunoassay using a rabbit anti-somatomedin C antibody and 125I somatomedin C. The technique was compared with the reference plasma assay and a correlation coefficient of 0.93 obtained. The assay was also extensively validated with samples from five hundred normal children and forty children with growth hormone deficiency.
Outcontracting in emergency management: More than a business conundrum

Outcontracting is a growing practice by governments as well as by nongovernmental organizations engaged in emergency management. Understanding the role of the private sector in providing equipment and services is critical in ensuring that emergency management is carried out as effectively and efficiently as possible in the best interest of the affected population. This inquiry looks at the types of services that the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) contracts out to both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations and examines the reviews that these services have received by government itself, interest groups, and disaster scientists. The article concludes with an overview of specific functional areas, where the services of either for-profits or not-for-profits are most appropriate in relation to their areas of expertise. The implication drawn from the analysis is that contractors’ motivations and expertise need to be clearly understood when awarding government contracts in order to respond effectively to disaster needs and meet taxpayers’ expectations.
Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Normal Human Central Nervous System, Microglial Nodules, and Multiple Sclerosis Lesions

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) comprise a family of proteolytic enzymes that are involved in remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of many tissues. They have been implicated in degradation of vascular basement membranes thereby facilitating leukocyte migration into inflammatory sites. To determine the cellular localization and levels of MMPs in the normal human central nervous system (CNS), multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, and other conditions, cryostat sections of CNS samples were immunostained with antisera to MMP-1, -2, -3 and -9. In control white matter the principal cells that express the MMPs were perivascular and parenchymal microglia. Cellular MMP expression was also found in sporadic microglial nodules in MS white matter. Most CNS microvessel endothelial cells expressed MMP-3 and -9 but not MMP-1 or -2. The majority of macrophages in active MS and necrotic lesions were MMP-l-, -2-, -3-, and -9-positive whereas chronic MS lesions had fewer MMP-positive macrophages. Small numbers of astrocytes were MMP-2-, -3- and -9-positive in acute and chronic MS lesions. These data suggest that microglia-derived MMPs may mediate turnover of the CNS ECM under normal conditions and in microglial nodules. In sites of CNS tissue injury there is complex and dynamic regulation of MMP expression by different cell populations. In MS lesions MMP-mediated proteolysis may contribute to breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and leukocyte migration into the CNS, in situ immune activation, demyelination, metabolism of bioactive peptides, and the formation of an ECM that does not promote remyelination or axonal repair.
Activities of proteinases in maize and soybean roots in response to anoxic stress

This study characterized the changes in proteinase activities in maize inbred line H60 and soybean cultivar Keller roots in response to anoxia. After 24 h of anoxia, crude protein extracts from both maize and soybean root tips (10 cm) were assayed for proteinase activities at pHs ranging from 4.5 to 10.2. In anoxic roots of both maize and soybean, activities of proteinases with alkaline pH optima increased, and activities of proteinases with acidic pH optima declined. Proteinases with neutral pH increased in anoxic maize roots, but declined in anoxic soybean roots. Whether the differences in proteinase activities in anaerobic maize and soybean roots contribute to the differental susceptibility of the two species requires further study.
The chronic perseverative stuttering syndrome; Incurable stuttering☆

Abstract After recounting the story of Todd to illustrate the significance of the issue, the chronic perseverative stuttering (CPS) syndrome is defined and its characteristics identified. After a discussion of treatment goals for the CPS syndrome client, the significance of its identification in the client's teenage years and its relevance to support groups for stutterers, the paper concludes with a call for acknowledging the reality of the CPS syndrome and for establishing realistic therapy goals in view of its existence.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic repair of a vesicouterine fistula.

BACKGROUND As cesarean sections become a more common mode of delivery, they have become the most likely cause of vesicouterine fistula formation. The associated pathology with repeat cesarean deliveries may make repair of these fistulas difficult. Computer-enhanced telesurgery, also known as robotic-assisted surgery, offers a 3-dimensional view of the operative field and allows for intricate movements necessary for complex suturing and dissection. These qualities are advantageous in vesicouterine fistula repair. CASE A healthy 34-year-old woman who underwent 4 cesarean deliveries presented with a persistent vesicouterine fistula. Conservative management with bladder decompression and amenorrhea-inducing agents failed. RESULTS Robotic-assisted laparoscopic repair was successfully performed with the patient maintaining continence after surgery. CONCLUSION Robotic-assisted laparoscopic repair of vesicouterine fistulas offers a minimally invasive approach to treatment of a complex disease process.
Good tumor control and survivals of squamous cell carcinoma of buccal mucosa treated with radical surgery with or without neck dissection in Taiwan

Summary The aim was to analyze the survival and prognostic factors in 232 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa (BSCC) treated with radical surgery with or without neck dissection (ND). The 5-year survivals for local, locoregional control, overall, disease-free, and disease-specific were demonstrated. Pathologic nodal status was the independent risk factor for local and locoregional control. Both pathologic nodal status and cell differentiation were the significant prognostic factors of disease-free survival. For cT1N0, 11.1% had neck metastases. All were tumor depth of ≧6 mm. Our result showed a relatively better tumor control and survivals in BSCC with radical surgery with or without ND. The possible reason may be due to the benefit from widely surgical resection with ND and post-operative radiotherapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy in those with risk factors. In treating early cT1N0, we suggest that elective ND is indicated only when tumor depth ≧6 mm.
"The More Things Change, the More They...": Commentary During Women's Ice Hockey at the 2010 Olympic Games

This research uses textual analysis rooted in cultural studies to investigate how commentary constructed women hockey players during the 2010 Olympics, one of the biggest mediated sporting events in the world. Games were aired on NBC's cable affiliates during non-prime-time hours, a departure from previous Olympic studies. Hockey is a sport that is traditionally violent, and women are often viewed as intruders to this male world, breaking up male hegemony. Results indicate that women have both male and female role models, are compared to both their male counterparts, succeed after having played on North American college teams, and gain entry into the sport through boys’ teams. Despite the positive finding of women as role models, commentators never define the heroine. The other traditional presentations of women are set against the backdrop of progress for women's sports also framed as reliant on men's sports, reflecting a strategy of ambivalence that marginalizes the female athlete and reinforces sexual ...
Quantitative Multicolor Subdiffraction Imaging of Bacterial Protein Ultrastructures in Three Dimensions

We demonstrate quantitative multicolor three-dimensional (3D) subdiffraction imaging of the structural arrangement of fluorescent protein fusions in living Caulobacter crescentus bacteria. Given single-molecule localization precisions of 20-40 nm, a flexible locally weighted image registration algorithm is critical to accurately combine the super-resolution data with <10 nm error. Surface-relief dielectric phase masks implement a double-helix response at two wavelengths to distinguish two different fluorescent labels and to quantitatively and precisely localize them relative to each other in 3D.
Surface Magnetization of Ferromagnetic Ni(110): A Polarized Low-Energy Electron Diffraction Experiment

The magnetic field dependence (hysteresis curve) and the temperature dependence of the magnetization at a Ni(110) surface was measured by polarized low-energy electron diffraction. The diffracted intensities are spin dependent by a few percent. The temperature dependence of the surface magnetization measured in the range $0.5l\frac{T}{{T}_{c}}l0.8$, is significantly different from that of the bulk.
Piecemeal Reform in Plato's Laws:

Karl Popper has called Plato a dangerous Utopian who offers an unworldly blueprint for society. I argue that, in making this criticism, Popper offers an incomplete reading of Plato's political thou...