cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extending the Convergence Domain of Newton’s Method

We present a local as well a semilocal convergence analysis for Newton’s method in a Banach space setting. Using the same Lipschitz constants as in earlier studies (S. Amat, S. Busquier, J. Math. Anal. Appl. 336:243–261, 2007, [2], I.K. Argyros, J. Comput. Math. 169:315–332, 2004, [4], I.K. Argyros, Math. Comput. 80:327–343, 2011, [5], I.K. Argyros, D. Gonzalez, Appl. Math. Comput. 234:167–178, 2014, [6], I.K. Argyros, S. Hilout, J. Complex., AMS, 28:364–387, 2012, [7], I.K. Argyros, S. Hilout, Numerical methods in Nonlinear Analysis, 2013, [8], I.K. Argyros, S. Hilout, Appl. Math. Comput. 225:372–386, 2013, [9], J.A. Ezquerro, M.A. Hernandez, How to improve the domain of parameters for Newton’s method, to appear in Appl. Math. Lett, [11], J.M. Gutierrez, A.A. Magrenan, N. Romero, Appl. Math. Comput. 221:79–88, 2013, [13], L.V. Kantorovich, G.P. Akilov, Functional Analysis, 1982, [14], J.F. Traub, Iterative Methods for the Solution of Equations, 964, [15]) we extend the applicability of, Newton’s method as follows: Local case: A larger radius is given as well as more precise error estimates on the, distances involved. Semilocal case: the convergence domain is extended; the error estimates are tighter and the information on the location of the solution is at least as precise as before. Numerical examples further justify the theoretical results. It follows (I.K. Argyros, A.A. Magrenan, Extending the applicability of the local and semilocal convergence of Newton’s method, submitted for publication, 2015, [10]).
V iz I t C ards : A Card-Based Toolkit for Infovis Design Education

Shifts in information visualization practice are forcing a reconsideration of how infovis is taught . Traditional curricula that focused on conveying research-derived knowledge are slowly integrating design thinking as a key learning objective. In part, this is motivated by the realization that infovis is a wicked design problem, requiring a different kind of design work. In this paper we describe, V iz I t C ards , a card-driven workshop developed for our graduate infovis class. The workshop is intended to provide practice with good design techniques and to simultaneously reinforce key concepts. V iz I t C ards relies on principles of collaborative-learning and research on parallel design to generate positive collaborations and high-quality designs. From our experience of simulating a realistic design scenario in a classroom setting, we find that our students were able to meet key learning objectives and their design performance improved during the class. We describe variants of the workshop, discussing which techniques we think match to which learning goals.
Linear dynamics of classical spin as Möbius transformation.

Though the overwhelming majority of natural processes occur far from the equilibrium, general theoretical approaches to non-equilibrium phase transitions remain scarce. Recent breakthroughs introduced a description of open dissipative systems in terms of non-Hermitian quantum mechanics enabling the identification of a class of non-equilibrium phase transitions associated with the loss of combined parity (reflection) and time-reversal symmetries. Here we report that the time evolution of a single classical spin (e.g. monodomain ferromagnet) governed by the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert-Slonczewski equation in the absence of magnetic anisotropy terms is described by a Mobius transformation in complex stereographic coordinates. We identify the parity-time symmetry-breaking phase transition occurring in spin-transfer torque-driven linear spin systems as a transition between hyperbolic and loxodromic classes of Mobius transformations, with the critical point of the transition corresponding to the parabolic transformation. This establishes the understanding of non-equilibrium phase transitions as topological transitions in configuration space.
Investigation and clinical applications of muscle strength change in cerebrospinal fluid tap test in cases of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: A retrospective study.

Abstract The cerebrospinal fluid tap test (CSFTT) is widely used to diagnose idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) and predict the therapeutic effectiveness of shunting. However, the ability to walk cannot be quantified for patients who are unable to walk. Therefore, we examined whether the iNPH diagnostic aid is possible using dynamometry, even for patients who are unable to walk. In this study, 45 patients underwent grip strength assessment, quadriceps strength assessment, 10-m walk test, and 3-m Timed Up and Go test before and after CSFTT. Our investigation of physical functions indicated that the CSFTT-positive group demonstrated significant improvements in grip and bilateral quadriceps muscle strength. The results of the receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that leg muscle strength measurement reliability was high and that the area under the curve was 0.754–0.811. Our investigation of the clinically effective cutoff point for the rate of change indicated that it was 13.6% for right quadriceps muscle strength and 15.3% for left quadriceps muscle strength. Comparing CSFTT results in cases of iNPH with the observed rate of change in muscle strength can aid in the diagnosis of iNPH.
The Candida Genome Database (CGD): incorporation of Assembly 22, systematic identifiers and visualization of high throughput sequencing data

The Candida Genome Database (CGD, http://www.candidagenome.org/) is a freely available online resource that provides gene, protein and sequence information for multiple Candida species, along with web-based tools for accessing, analyzing and exploring these data. The mission of CGD is to facilitate and accelerate research into Candida pathogenesis and biology, by curating the scientific literature in real time, and connecting literature-derived annotations to the latest version of the genomic sequence and its annotations. Here, we report the incorporation into CGD of Assembly 22, the first chromosome-level, phased diploid assembly of the C. albicans genome, coupled with improvements that we have made to the assembly using additional available sequence data. We also report the creation of systematic identifiers for C. albicans genes and sequence features using a system similar to that adopted by the yeast community over two decades ago. Finally, we describe the incorporation of JBrowse into CGD, which allows online browsing of mapped high throughput sequencing data, and its implementation for several RNA-Seq data sets, as well as the whole genome sequencing data that was used in the construction of Assembly 22.
Controlled Placement of Microcapsules in Polymeric Materials

A wide variety of functional materials are based on microcapsules, including self-healing and self-sensing composites. In this paper, we demonstrate the ability to guide microcapsules to a desired location in an epoxy specimen using magnetic fields. Guidable microcapsules are synthesized by the inclusion of magnetic nanoparticles in the microcapsule core and shell. Nanoparticles are surface modified to enhance compatibility with emulsion-based encapsulation processes. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is used to determine nanoparticle crystal structure and overall size, found to be 7 nm in diameter. Microcapsules are characterized using optical microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The influence of microcapsule diameter and nanoparticle concentration is studied to optimize the placement efficiency of the microcapsules. Microcapsule dispersion and location are analyzed using optical and electron microscopy. The impact of the placed microcapsules on fracture toughness is evaluated using a Tapered Double Cantilevered Beam (TDCB) specimen geometry.
Eating in the Absence of Hunger during Childhood Predicts Self-Reported Binge Eating in Adolescence

Objective The objectives of the current study were to examine whether eating in the absence of hunger (EAH) at age 7 predicted reports of self-reported binge eating at age 15 and to identify factors among girls with high-EAH that moderated risk of later binge eating.
Recent applications of metabolomics to advance microbial biofuel production

Biofuel production from plant biomass is a promising source of renewable energy [1]. However, efficient biofuel production involves the complex task of engineering high-performance microorganisms, which requires detailed knowledge of metabolic function and regulation. This review highlights the potential of mass-spectrometry-based metabolomic analysis to guide rational engineering of biofuel-producing microbes. We discuss recent studies that apply knowledge gained from metabolomic analyses to increase the productivity of engineered pathways, characterize the metabolism of emerging biofuel producers, generate novel bioproducts, enable utilization of lignocellulosic feedstock, and improve the stress tolerance of biofuel producers.
Regulatory Variants Modulate Protein Kinase C α (PRKCA) Gene Expression in Human Heart

Protein kinase C α (PRKCA) is involved in multiple functions and has been implicated in heart failure risks and treatment outcomes. This study aims to identify regulatory variants affecting PRKCA expression in human heart, and evaluate attributable risk of heart disease. mRNA expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) were extracted from the Genotype and Tissue Expression Project (GTEx). Allelic mRNA ratios were measured in 51 human heart tissues to identify cis-acting regulatory variants. Potential regulatory regions were tested with luciferase reporter gene assays and further evaluated in GTEx and genome-wide association studies. Located in a region with robust enhancer activity in luciferase reporter assays, rs9909004 (T > C, minor allele frequency =0.47) resides in a haplotype displaying strong eQTLs for PRKCA in heart (p = 1.2 × 10−23). The minor C allele is associated with both decreased PRKCA mRNA expression and decreased risk of phenotypes characteristic of heart failure in GWAS analyses (QT interval p = 3.0 × 10−14). While rs9909004 is the likely regulatory variant, other variants in high linkage disequilibrium cannot be excluded. Distinct regulatory variants appear to affect expression in other tissues. The haplotype carrying rs9909004 influences PRKCA expression in the heart and is associated with traits linked to heart failure, potentially affecting therapy of heart failure.
The versatility and paradox of GDF 11

In addition to its roles in embryonic development, Growth and Differentiation Factor 11 (GDF 11) has recently drawn much interest about its roles in other processes, such as aging. GDF 11 has been shown to play pivotal roles in the rescue of the proliferative and regenerative capabilities of skeletal muscle, neural stem cells and cardiomyocytes. We would be remiss not to point that some controversy exists regarding the role of GDF 11 in biological processes and whether it will serve as a therapeutic agent. The latest studies have shown that the level of circulating GDF 11 correlates with the outcomes of patients with cardiovascular diseases, cancer and uremia. Based on these studies, GDF 11 is a promising candidate to serve as a novel biomarker of diseases. This brief review gives a detailed and concise view of the regulation and functions of GDF 11 and its roles in development, neurogenesis and erythropoiesis as well as the prospect of using this protein as an indicator of cardiac health and aging.
The contrasting effects of short-term climate change on the early recruitment of tree species.

Predictions of plant responses to climate change are frequently based on organisms’ presence in warmer locations, which are then assumed to reflect future performance in cooler areas. However, as plant life stages may be affected differently by environmental changes, there is little empirical evidence that this approach provides reliable estimates of short-term responses to global warming. Under this premise, we analyzed 8 years of early recruitment data, seed production and seedling establishment and survival, collected for two tree species at two latitudes. We quantified recruitment to a wide range of environmental conditions, temperature, soil moisture and light, and simulated recruitment under two forecasted climatic scenarios. Annual demographic transitions were affected by the particular conditions taking place during their onset, but the effects of similar environmental shifts differed among the recruitment stages; seed production was higher in warmer years, while seedling establishment and survival peaked during cold years. Within a species, these effects also varied between latitudes; increasing temperatures at the southern location will have stronger detrimental effects on recruitment than similar changes at the northern locations. Our simulations illustrate that warmer temperatures may increase seed production, but they will have a negative effect on establishment and survival. When the three early recruitment processes were simultaneously considered, simulations showed little change in recruitment dynamics at the northern site and a slight decrease at the southern site. It is only when we considered these three stages that we were able to assess likely changes in early recruitment under the predicted conditions.
SWIFTNoC: A Reconfigurable Silicon-Photonic Network with Multicast-Enabled Channel Sharing for Multicore Architectures

On-chip communication is widely considered to be one of the major performance bottlenecks in contemporary chip multiprocessors (CMPs). With recent advances in silicon nanophotonics, photonics-based network-on-chip (NoC) architectures are being considered as a viable solution to support communication in future CMPs as they can enable higher bandwidth and lower power dissipation compared to traditional electrical NoCs. In this article, we present SwiftNoC, a novel reconfigurable silicon-photonic NoC architecture that features improved multicast-enabled channel sharing, as well as dynamic re-prioritization and exchange of bandwidth between clusters of cores running multiple applications, to increase channel utilization and system performance. Experimental results show that SwiftNoC improves throughput by up to 25.4× while reducing latency by up to 72.4% and energy-per-bit by up to 95% over state-of-the-art solutions.
EXPLORING LEXICAL EFFECTS IN SECOND LANGUAGE INTERPRETATION: THE CASE OF MOOD IN SPANISH ADVERBIAL CLAUSES

The Spanish mood contrast is a good test case for research on acquiring form-meaning connections in contexts where input is variable and multiple areas of the grammar are implicated (e.g., syntax, semantics, pragmatics). Nevertheless, research on interpretation of this contrast lags and little is known about how individual lexical items and patterns of co-occurrence of adverbial clauses with subjunctive forms influence interpretation. Addressing this void, we compare interpretation of the present subjunctive by native speakers (NSs) and nonnative speakers (NNSs) at three relatively high levels of experience. Participants completed an interpretation task containing clauses with indicative and subjunctive forms paired with one of six adverbial conjunctions, categorized as co-occurring with subjunctive, indicative, or both forms. Our analysis suggests individual lexical items play a role in morphosyntactic variation and that nuanced differences in interpretation exist for NSs and highly advanced NNSs, even on items that prescriptively co-occur with only one form.
Dangerous neighborhoods: State behavior and the spread of ethnic conflict:

This article argues that the spread of ethnic conflict across international borders is a result of purposive repressive state action combined with political opportunity which allows the ethnic grou...
Response to Reviewers

I am extraordinarily grateful to Fahad Y. Al-Sumait, Nazia Kazi, and Enzo Rossi. It is typical, in such a format, to correct misinterpretations of one’s work. But, this has proven unnecessary to th...
CAR T cell-induced cytokine release syndrome is mediated by macrophages and abated by IL-1 blockade.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy targeting CD19 is an effective treatment for refractory B cell malignancies, especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) 1 . Although a majority of patients will achieve a complete response following a single infusion of CD19-targeted CAR-modified T cells (CD19 CAR T cells)2–4, the broad applicability of this treatment is hampered by severe cytokine release syndrome (CRS), which is characterized by fever, hypotension and respiratory insufficiency associated with elevated serum cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6)2,5. CRS usually occurs within days of T cell infusion at the peak of CAR T cell expansion. In ALL, it is most frequent and more severe in patients with high tumor burden2–4. CRS may respond to IL-6 receptor blockade but can require further treatment with high dose corticosteroids to curb potentially lethal severity2–9. Improved therapeutic and preventive treatments require a better understanding of CRS physiopathology, which has so far remained elusive. Here we report a murine model of CRS that develops within 2–3 d of CAR T cell infusion and that is potentially lethal and responsive to IL-6 receptor blockade. We show that its severity is mediated not by CAR T cell–derived cytokines, but by IL-6, IL-1 and nitric oxide (NO) produced by recipient macrophages, which enables new therapeutic interventions. Blocking IL-1 and iNOS prevents CAR T cell–induced cytokine release syndrome.
The Retrieval of Moving Waves from Remotely-Sensed Atmospheric Data

Cunnold, Derek M. and Wey, Chowen Chou, 1986. The retrieval of moving waves from remotely-sensed atmospheric data A procedure for interpreting atmospheric measurements, obtained from a polar-orbitting satellite, as a sum of moving planetary waves is described. The procedure is validated through the analysis of simulated measurements and the advantages of this procedure over that using stationary waves is discussed.
Qué tienen las asociaciones de la sociedad civil que promueven la democracia

The author analyzes associations in civil society and their effect as democratizing forces, from the point of view of goals, internal structures, links with other organisms, diversity and multiplicity, as well as and the distribution of the different kinds of associations, and the patterns of change before new challenges. He concludes that although associations are not a panacea to promote democracy, apparently they do accompany its growth and are part of any modern system.
Examining Demographics in Randomized Controlled Trials of Group-Based Social Skills Interventions for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

We reviewed the demographic reporting practices and diversity of participants in published randomized controlled trial studies of group-based social skills interventions (GSSIs) for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A total of 17 studies met inclusionary criteria. Results of this review suggest that the majority of published RCTs reported on participant gender and race/ethnicity, with fewer studies including details on household income and caregiver education. Study samples generally lacked diversity, with an overrepresentation of participants who were male, White, and from upper-middle class backgrounds. Additionally, we found that nearly all GSSI studies focused on participants with average or high IQs, or were specifically classified as having a higher functioning sub-diagnosis within ASD. Implications and future directions for research are discussed.
Interaction between dendritic radix structures of pelmatozoan echinoderms on a hardground in the middle Silurian (Wenlock) of southeastern Indiana, USA

A hardground surface in the middle Silurian (Wenlock: Sheinwoodian) Massie Formation is well exposed at the New Point stone quarry in Napoleon, southeastern Indiana, USA, where it is densely encrusted by pelmatozoan echinoderm attachment structures. Among the most common attachment structures encrusting the hardground are terminal dendritic radix structures attributable to the monobathrid camerate crinoid Eucalyptocrinites and the hemicosmitid rhombiferan Caryocrinites. Radicles belonging to both of these genera are often modified by secretion of secondary stereom, resulting in swollen, irregular calcitic masses that extend onto the substrate and can engulf nearby bioclasts. Herein, we describe a specimen that resembles a portion of a swollen radicular attachment structure; however, close inspection reveals that is actually an interaction between radicles of Caryocrinites and Eucalyptocrinites, as indicated by the presence of both a trilobate lumen, characteristic of Caryocrinites, as well as a pentalobate lumen, characteristic of Eucalyptocrinites. Hence, what appears to be part of a single structure is actually parts of two interwoven structures belonging to entirely different taxa. Increased attention to echinoderm attachment structures consisting of overgrowths and secondarily mineralized radicles may result in recognition of additional specimens that represent analogous biotic interactions rather than simple holdfast occurrences.
Finding Place: Cognitive and Psychosocial Factors Impacting Latina/o Students’ Sense of Belonging

Guided by several theoretical approaches to student success, this study tested cognitive and non-cognitive variables including a set of background, financial, and psychosocial factors. Regression a...
The structural and motivational role of the unique lip‐flip movement in the gelada (Theropithecus gelada) facial display repertoire

Objectives Human language represents an extreme form of communicative complexity. Primate facial display complexity, which depends upon facial mobility, can be used as a model for the study of the evolution of communicative complexity. The gelada (Theropithecus gelada) is the only primate that can produce a lip-flip eversion. This study investigates the role of the lip-flip relative to the bared-teeth display to understand its role in generating communicative complexity. Materials and methods We reviewed videos of gelada social interactions. We utilized the facial action coding system (FACS) to define structural component action units (AUs) of each display. We inferred display motivation from the behaviors of the display sender. Results The lip-flip was used only in combination with the essential AUs of the bared-teeth display, serving as an optional structural element added to produce a structural variant. Both the bared-teeth display with and without a lip-flip occurred most frequently with nonaggressive, submissive behaviors. The lip-flip was more frequently preceded by approach than the bared-teeth display, especially in males. The lip-flip was also present in the majority of structurally blended facial displays though the motivation of the non-lip-flip parent display often dominated. Discussion The lip-flip may potentially function as an indicator of benign intent after an approach or as an intensifying component of nonaggressive intent. Adaptations to increase facial mobility in geladas via facilitating the lip-flip may promote increased communicative complexity through increased conspicuousness and motivational signaling specification or intensification.
Beyond Bias: Artificial Intelligence and Social Justice

Artificial intelligence (AI) systems can discriminate against protected classes — a fact that has sparked an extensive literature about bias in AI. Bias, as important as it is, is a special case of the overall problem of social justice. Beyond Bias focuses on the general problem. It incorporates contributions from the extensive discussion of AI and fairness in the computer science literature. In particular, it draws on Fairness Through Awareness, an influential article by the Harvard computer scientist Cynthia Dwork and her co-authors. Adapting Dwork’s approach, Beyond Bias reexpresses intuitive, well-motivated fairness constraints in a more mathematical way that shows how to apply the constraints to mathematically and computationally complex AI systems. The mathematics nonetheless uses only elementary arithmetic (unlike Dwork et al.). Beyond Bias adapts the fairness constraints that it reexpresses from the Yale economist John Roemer. As Roemer notes in Equality of Opportunity, a conception of “equality of opportunity . . . prevalent today in Western democracies . . . says that society should do what it can to ‘level the playing field’ among individuals who compete for positions.” Beyond Bias shows that AI systems can unfairly tilt the playing field. The reason lies in the pervasive (and unavoidable) use of “proxy variables” — e. g., using credit ratings to predict driving safety (as many insurance companies do). The credit ratings are the substitute — the proxy — for details about individuals’ driving practices. Beyond Bias is the first article to apply a level playing field concept of fairness to issues of fairness in AI systems. Beyond Bias briefly reviews the history of the use of proxy variables to evaluate consumers from the late Nineteenth Century to the present. It was already clear at the close of the Nineteenth Century that proxy-driven analysis could make seemingly unrelated aspects of one’s life “have a profound impact on [one’s] future potential in matters economic or social,” as Dan Bouk notes in HOW OUR DAYS BECAME NUMBERED: RISK AND THE RISE OF THE STATISTICAL INDIVIDUAL. The concern was that proxy-driven analysis would unfairly tilt the playing field, and that concern continues to this day. Beyond Bias outlines a regulatory approach that ensures level playing field fairness by incorporating its mathematical constraints on AI systems.
Activity and Overlap Among Birds and Mammals Scavenging A Bison Carcass in Shortgrass Prairie

Bison serve as keystone species in prairie ecosystems of North America, yet few studies have evaluated the effects of bison carcasses on other animals. To determine which species forage on bison carcasses and whether such carcasses catalyze intraspecific and interspecific interactions, we used wildlife cameras to observe scavenger visits and activity over a 6-wk period following the death of an adult female bison from a conservation herd in northern Colorado. We captured more than 45 000 photos of avian and mammalian scavengers. Photos most often included coyote (51% of photos) and common raven (50%), followed by black-billed magpie (14%) and golden eagle (0.11%). Most photos (86%) captured individuals of the same species (intraspecific activity) visiting the carcass, while 14% had two or more different species (interspecific activity) at the carcass simultaneously. The species most often photographed together included the common raven and black-billed magpie (64%), followed by coyote and black-billed magpie (25%) and coyote and common raven (7%). Less than 1% of photos captured dominance behaviors among individuals. Our study demonstrates that bison carcasses have the potential to provide key food resources in the winter for shortgrass prairie animals. The role of bison carcasses in supporting grassland animal communities is likely to become increasingly important as efforts gain momentum to restore bison across their historic range in North America.
Levodopa facilitates improvements in gait kinetics at the hip, not the ankle, in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Parkinson’s disease symptoms impair gait, limit mobility, and reduce independence. Levodopa improves muscle activation, strength, and coordination; thus, facilitating increased step length, but few studies have evaluated the underlying forces associated with medication-induced gait improvements. Here, we assess the effects of levodopa on gait kinetics in persons with Parkinson’s disease. Over two sessions, 13 participants with Parkinson’s disease walked on a treadmill while both optimally medicated and after a 12-hour medication withdrawal. Walking was analyzed for spatiotemporal parameters, ranges of motion, anterior-posterior ground reaction forces, joint torques, and powers using an instrumented treadmill and motion capture system. When on medication, participants increased gait speed by significantly improving step length (p = .009) and time (p = .004). Peak propulsive force (p = .001) and hip flexion torques (p = .003) increased with medication while hip extensor and ankle plantarflexor torques did not. While differences in joint power were not significantly different, the optimal medication condition showed medium to large effects, with the largest effect at the hip (dz = 0.84). Our findings suggest the underlying forces responsible for the increases in gait speed are primarily due to increases at the hip, with limited change at the ankle. Disproportionate use of muscle force may be a limiting factor for levodopa’s use as an intervention for walking. Future interventions should consider targeting force production deficits during gait in those with Parkinson’s disease.
INTERNAL MARKETING: A COMPETITIVE STRATEGY FOR THE LONG-TERM CARE INDUSTRY

Abstract Administrators, directors of admissions, and corporate offices of nursing homes must become better marketers to survive sweeping changes in the industry. An essential part of their marketing effort has to be what is termed “internal marketing.” Internal marketing consists of an effort by the organization to train and motivate its employees to provide better service. Internal marketing must precede conventional marketing campaigns if the latter are to succeed. Negative staff attitudes will affect quality of care, and negative word of mouth communication by patients and staff to the community will negate the effects of the marketing campaign. A survey by the authors shows that education and advancement of nursing assistants has been neglected. They recommend the internal marketing efforts focus on those nursing assistants.
Advances in Large Vocabulary Continuous Speech Recognition

Abstract The development of robust, accurate and efficient speech recognition systems is critical to the widespread adoption of a large number of commercial applications. These include automated customer service, broadcast news transcription and indexing, voice-activated automobile accessories, large-vocabulary voice-activated cell-phone dialing, and automated directory assistance. This article provides a review of the current state-of-the-art, and the recent research performed in pursuit of these goals.
Growth Factor Requirements of Ruminal Cellulolytic Bacteria Isolated from Microbial Populations Supplied Diets With or Without Rapidly Fermentable Carbohydrate

The predominant cellulolytic ruminal bacteria isolated from microbial populations supplied diets containing cellulose as an energy source and essentially devoid of amino acids or rapidly fermentable carbohydrates were shown to require branched-chain acid(s) for growth.
Hyperprolactinemia and delayed puberty: a report of three cases and their response to therapy

Delayed puberty occurred in three patients (aged 15 to 22 years) with elevated prolactin levels. Despite the varying etiologies, their clinical presentations were marked by absence of galactorrhea, prepubertal genitalia (2/3), and short stature (1/3). Except for hyperprolactinemia, endocrinologic evaluation was normal in two patients. Bromocriptine restored prolactin levels to normal in all three patients, two of whom had prior transsphenoidal surgery, and resulted in initiation of menses in one girl and pubertal development in both boys. The 22-year-old male patient with the empty sella syndrome has progressed through puberty after the addition of oral testosterone.
Recubrimiento radicular mediante 2 injertos de tejido conectivo obtenidos de la misma localización empleando una técnica de incisión única

Se introdujo una tecnica de incision unica para minimizar el tamano de la herida palatina y permitir el cierre por primera intencion de la zona donante, con la intencion de reducir el dolor postoperatorio. A veces es necesario emplear repetidamente la misma zona del paladar del paciente para obtener injertos consecutivos de tejido conectivo debido a las limitaciones causadas por tejidos inadecuados o por la anatomia vascular. Este caso que presentamos describe los resultados clinicos de 2 injertos subepiteliales obtenidos de una misma zona donante mediante la tecnica de incision unica en dos tiempos, y empleados para recubrimiento radicular. El recubrimiento radicular obtenido con los dos injertos de tejido conectivo obtenidos de la misma zona donante con un intervalo de 6 semanas mediante la tecnica de incision unica mostro unos resultados predecibles, con reduccion de la hipersensibilidad dentinaria, ausencia de defectos de sondaje y ausencia de complicaciones significativas. Este enfoque puede representar una opcion cuando se requieren multiples injertos de tejido conectivo. Los resultados que se presentan necesitan ser validados mediante estudios de series o de caso-control de mayor tamano.
Proximity of antiferromagnetism and superconductivity in LaFeAsO 1-x F x : Effective Hamiltonian from ab initio studies

We report density functional theory calculations for the parent compound LaFeAsO of the recently discovered 26 K Fe-based superconductor ${\text{LaFeAsO}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\text{F}}_{x}$. We find that the ground state is an ordered antiferromagnet, with staggered moment of about $2.3\text{ }{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{B}$, on the border with the Mott insulating state. We fit the bands crossing the Fermi surface, derived from Fe and As, to a tight-binding Hamiltonian using maximally localized Wannier functions on $\text{Fe}\text{ }3d$ and $\text{As}\text{ }4p$ orbitals. The model Hamiltonian accurately describes the Fermi surface obtained via first-principles calculations. Due to the evident proximity of superconductivity to antiferromagnetism and the Mott transition, we suggest that the system may be an analog of the electron-doped cuprates, where antiferromagnetism and superconductivity coexist.
On spectral factorization in two-dimensions

Implications of the (partial) feasibility of spectral factorability of two-dimensions (2D) parahermitian polynomial matrices, nonnegative on the unit bidisc, are explored. Specifically, we consider three issues connected with the problem of spectral factorization in two dimensions and investigate their relationship in the light of the 2D spectral factorability result mentioned. These are the extendability of 2D positive definite correlation sequences from a finite section of them, the network theoretic interpretations of parameterizations of extensions along with maximum entropy extension and finally the stochastic realization problem in 2D. The intent is not so much to present solutions but exposition of the issues.
A framework towards efficient and effective sequence clustering

Analyzing sequence data (particularly in categorical domains) has become increasingly important, partially due to the significant advances in biology and other fields. Examples of sequence data include DNA sequences, unfolded protein sequences, text documents, Web usage data, system traces, etc. Previous work on mining sequence data has mainly focused on frequent pattern discovery. In this project, we focus on the problem of clustering sequence data.
Epidemiologic concerns relative to in vivo and in vitro production of livestock embryos.

Abstract Evidence indicates low potential for transmission of pathogens with in vivo-derived embryos of cattle when appropriate precautions are taken. In apparent contrast, results of research with in vivo-derived embryos of small ruminants and swine and with in vitro-derived embryos of cattle suggest a greater tendency for their association with pathogens after artificial exposure. However, regardless of donor species, investigations involving collection of embryos from artificially or naturally infected animals and assessment of health of recipients and offspring after transfer of these embryos have indicated low potential for transmitting disease. In this paper, results of embryo–pathogen research are summarized, emphasizing potential for spread of pathogens under natural circumstances. Also, safe embryo handling practices and their application to multiple species are discussed.
Primary non-adherence to bisphosphonates in an integrated healthcare setting

We estimated primary non-adherence to oral bisphosphonate medication and examined the factors associated with primary non-adherence. Nearly 30 % of women did not pick up their new bisphosphonate within 60 days. Identifying barriers and developing interventions that address patients’ needs and concerns at the time a new medication is prescribed are warranted. To estimate primary non-adherence to oral bisphosphonate medications using electronic medical record data in a large, integrated healthcare delivery system and to describe patient and prescribing provider factors associated with primary non-adherence. Women aged 55 years and older enrolled in Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) with a new prescription for oral bisphosphonates between December 1, 2009 and March 31, 2011 were identified. Primary non-adherence was defined as failure to pick up the new prescription within 60 days of the order date. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate patient factors (demographics, healthcare utilization, and health conditions) and prescribing provider characteristics (demographics, years in practice, and specialty) associated with primary non-adherence. We identified 8,454 eligible women with a new bisphosphonate order. Among these women, 2,497 (29.5 %) did not pick up their bisphosphonate prescription within 60 days of the order date. In multivariable analyses, older age and emergency department utilization were associated with increased odds of primary non-adherence while prescription medication use and hospitalizations were associated with lower odds of primary non-adherence. Prescribing providers practicing 10 or more years had lower odds of primary non-adherent patients compared with providers practicing less than 10 years. Internal medicine and rheumatology providers had lower odds of primary non-adherent patients than primary care providers. This study found that nearly one in three women failed to pick up their new bisphosphonate prescription within 60 days. Identifying barriers and developing interventions aimed at reducing the number of primary non-adherent patients to bisphosphonate prescriptions are warranted.
Binding of single substituted promiscuous and designer peptides to purified DRB1*0101.

Abstract MHC class II molecules present antigenic peptides to T cells. The sequence characteristics of peptides associated with various class II alleles have been examined by analysis of peptide mixtures extracted from purified class II molecules as well by direct binding assays with substituted synthetic peptides and purified class II molecules. Here, in vitro binding assays with purified DRB1*0101 and glycine substituted analogues of Hγ321-340 and alanine substituted analogues of TT948-967, universal CD4 + epitopes of the gamma subunit of the human nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and tetanus toxin, respectively, were able to compete for binding to an extent similar to that of the unsubstituted peptides. Testing whether this is a property of promiscuous, but not allele-specific peptide epitopes, a designer peptide containing the proposed anchor residues for binding DRB1*0101 was used in similar binding assays. As expected, the binding capacity of this designer peptide was much higher than that of the universal epitope peptides. However, substitution of the anchor residues for alanine in the context of this designer peptide did not abrogate binding to DRB1*0101 and, in fact, enhanced it. Therefore, it appears that for both class II allele-specific and universal epitope peptides, binding is a result of the combinatory effects of a few residues. The individual replacement of these residues with the sterically and electrostatically neutral residue alanine does not negatively affect binding in the continued presence of other anchor residues.
Focal Adhesion Kinase (pp125FAK) Is Tyrosine Phosphorylated after Engagement of α4β1 and α5β1 Integrins on Human T-Lymphoblastic Cells

pp125FAK is a novel protein tyrosine kinase associated with focal adhesions. It has been shown that ligation of VLA beta 1 integrins on a number of cell types enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation and kinase activity of pp125FAK. Cellular transformation by retroviral oncogene products or mitogenic neuropeptides also result in the activation of this kinase. On the basis of these observations, pp125FAK has been proposed to be a key regulatory molecule connecting cell adhesion, transformation, and growth. We have previously shown that ligation of VLA beta 1 integrins induced CD3-dependent T cell proliferation and stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of a molecular mass with a 105-kDa protein (pp105). Here we report that engagement of alpha 4 beta 1 and alpha 5 beta 1 integrins by adherence to their respective ligands stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of 105- to 120-kDa proteins (pp105 and pp120, respectively) in human H9 T-lymphoblastic cells. At least one component of the 105- to 120-kDa proteins was found to be tyrosine-phosphorylated pp125FAK. While kinetics of adherence-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of pp120/pp125FAK and pp105 are closely similar, pp105 appeared to be distinct from pp125FAK. Given T cell costimulation induced by VLA beta 1 integrins and the putative functional role of pp125FAK in cell growth, tyrosine phosphorylation of these two distinct proteins may be involved in T cell activation and proliferation.
The role of IL-27 in the development of T-cell responses during parasitic infections

The recognition that CD4+ T-cell responses could be divided into at least two functional subsets either dominated by production of interferon (IFN)-gamma and associated with cell-mediated immunity (Th1) or characterized by production of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 and associated with humoral immunity (Th2) provided a basis to understand the role of T cells in resistance or susceptibility to different types of pathogens. As a consequence, many studies have focused on the identification of cytokines that influence these events. For example, the development of Th1-type responses is largely dependent on IL-12. However, other cytokines also affect this process, and initial studies revealed that IL-27, a cytokine with close structural and functional similarity to IL-12, can promote Th1 responses required for immunity to Leishmania major. Subsequent work with IL-27R (WSX-1)-deficient mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii or Trypanosoma cruzi revealed that the IL-27/IL-27R system can act as a negative regulator of inflammatory T-cell responses. The aim of this review is to discuss recent studies from these laboratories on the role of IL-27 in immunity to parasitic infections in the context of previous work and to highlight the pleiotropic effects of the IL-27/IL-27R system in the development and regulation of Th1 and Th2 responses.
Estimating the UV diffuse fraction of solar radiation under partly cloudy skies

A major limitation in predicting the ultraviolet-B (UVB) irradiance on humans, plant leaves and flowers and aquatic organisms is the difficulty in determining the UVB under partly cloudy sky conditions. This study analyzes the UV diffuse fractions under partly cloudy and clear conditions for nine locations in the USA over a period of 1997 through 1999. Radiation measurements, made as part of the United States Department of Agriculture UVB Monitoring Program using multi-filter rotating shadow band radiometers, were paired with cloud cover and other atmospheric measurements made with National Weather Service Automated Surface Observation Systems within 30 km of the radiation measurement location to evaluate the accuracy of using a relatively simple model to describe the diffuse fraction of UV radiation under partly-cloudy skies. The diffuse fraction was modeled as the summation of clear and overcast sky diffuse fractions, weighted by the probability of the sun's direct beam being obstructed or not for a given cloud cover fraction. For the nine locations evaluated, the model had a mean bias error (MBE) of 0.0037 and a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.0361. Simplifying the model by assuming a diffuse fraction of 1 for the overcast sky resulted in a slightly higher error (MBE error of -0.0045 and an RMSE of 0.0387). Model errors were greatest for low solar zenith angles and high cloud fractions. The greatest error, associated with overcast sky conditions, appeared to be a result of scattering off the clouds during the period of time where the sun's beam was unobstructed. Error analysis also showed that the diffuse fraction of partly cloudy skies when the sun's beam was not obstructed is well approximated by the clear sky condition to within approximately 0.1, supporting the use of aerosol optical thickness estimates by Langley plot under partly cloudy skies.
Cephalosporins in the Treatment of Meningitis

The synthesis of new cephalosporin antibiotics has provided agents which can effectively be used to treat most of the different forms of meningitis. None of the first generation cephalosporins can be considered acceptable as agents to treat meningitis. Cefuroxime can be used to treat meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria meningitidis in children. Agents such as cefotaxime and ceftriaxone are appropriate for neonatal meningitis due to Escherichia coli and group B streptococci, but not Listeria monocytogenes. Cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ceftizoxime and ceftazidime have all proved effective as therapy of meningitis in children and adults when the pathogens are pneumococci, H. influenzae or N. meningitidis, but they have not been shown to yield an improved mortality or lower morbidity in spite of much greater cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bactericidal titres. Cefotaxime, ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone and ceftazidime have been effective as therapy of meningitis due to E. coli, K. pneumoniae and Proteus species, but failures have occurred with all of the cephalosporins when used to treat meningitis due to Enterobacter spp. and Serratia marcescens. Only ceftazidime yields adequate CSF concentrations to treat meningitis due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Overall, the cephalosporins can now be considered a major component of the therapy of acute bacterial meningitis irrespective of the age group to be treated.
Local atomic structure at thermally grown Si/SiO2 interfaces

Abstract This paper presents an experimental study of the properties of SiO 2 and Si, in the immediate vicinity of thermally grown SiO 2 /Si interfaces. We have examined properties of the SiO 2 films, including the center frequency and width of the SiO IR-active bond-stretching vibration, the optical index of refraction at 632.8 nm, and the intrinsic growth stress, as well as the photoreflectance and Raman scattering of the Si substrate at the growth interface. We have interpreted the temperature and thickness dependence of these properties in terms of a model which includes the molar volume mismatch between the SiO 2 and Si at the growth interface, and visco-elastic relaxation of the oxide. We conclude that the thermal history of SiO 2 films is generally non-homogeneous due to differences between the processing times, and the times for visco-elastic relaxation of the interface-generated stress. Even under conditions approaching a homogeneous thermal history, there are still significant stress gradients in the SiO 2 und underlying Si in the immediate vicinity of the SiO 2 /Si interface.
Governing Equations for Vibrating Constrained-Layer Damping Sandwich Plates and Beams

A simple differential equation is derived to describe constrained-layer damping in nonsymmetric sandwich plates and beams composed of isotropic and homogeneous layers. The natural boundary conditions related to this equation are determined and some typical numerical results obtained by this equation are given. The equation is valid within the linear theories of elasticity and viscoelasticity in the absence of any constraints on thicknesses, positions, symmetries, and densities of the layers.