cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temporal Bayesian Knowledge Bases - Reasoning about uncertainty with temporal constraints

Time is ubiquitous. Accounting for time and its interaction with change is crucial to modeling the dynamic world, especially in domains whose study of data is sensitive to time such as in medical diagnosis, financial investment, and natural language processing, to name a few. We present a framework that incorporates both uncertainty and time in its reasoning scheme. It is based on an existing knowledge representation called Bayesian Knowledge Bases. It provides a graphical representation of knowledge, time and uncertainty, and enables probabilistic and temporal inferencing. The reasoning scheme is probabilistically sound and the fusion of temporal fragments is well defined. We will discuss some properties of this framework and introduce algorithms to ensure groundedness during the construction of the model. The framework has been applied to both artificial and real world scenarios.
The Alpha-Naptholphthalein (ANP) Method for Measuring Fat Hydrolysis. I. Application to Butter

Summary A rapid colorimetric method using α-naphtholphthalein originally developed by Roberts et al . (6) has been modified to eliminate certain inherent weaknesses. For convenience, the modified procedure is designated as the ANP test. The method may be applied to butter to give a roughly quantitative measure within an accuracy of 100mg. per 100g. fat of water-insoluble fatty acids below a concentration of 400mg. acid per 100g. of fat. With extra precautions greater accuracy may be achieved, since color changes may be detected with variations of 25mg. water-insoluble acids at concentrations of less than 400mg. per 100g. fat. The ANP method is not affected by the presence of butyric and lactic acids, but does measure caproic and higher fatty acids. The results indicate a close agreement between the ANP method and the WIA method of Hillig (4).
Convergence of the Neumann Series in Higher Norms

Natural conditions on an operator A are given so that the Neumann series for (Id + A)−1 converges in higher norm topologies.
Laparoscopic Upper Pole Partial Nephrectomy for Duplicated Renal Collecting Systems in Adult Patients

Introduction Ureteral duplication is a relatively common congenital anomaly of the genitourinary tract. When symptomatic due to urinary tract infection or flank pain, the standard surgical treatment is upper pole heminephrectomy. Until relatively recently surgery involved a flank incision with significant morbidity and prolonged recovery time, especially for adult patients. We report our experience with laparoscopic upper pole partial nephrectomy (LUPPN) in adult patients with a duplicated collecting system and an obstructed, poorly functioning upper pole renal moiety. Technical Considerations After reflecting the colon medially, both ipsilateral duplicated ureters are identified, with distinction between the two aided by the presence a previously positioned ureteral catheter in the lower pole ureter. The upper pole ureter is then dissected cephalad toward the renal hilum and upper pole atrophic moiety. The vascular supply to the upper pole renal moiety is meticulously dissected and controlled using vascular clips. The renal upper pole moiety is then excised along the atrophic cleavage plane using electrocautery or a harmonic scalpel. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 5 patients who underwent LUPPN at our institution between October 2000 and June 2005. All patients underwent the procedure without intraoperative complications. Conclusions Laparoscopic upper pole partial nephrectomy for an obstructed upper pole moiety is a safe treatment modality with low morbidity and good outcomes.
Systematics of the Landau-Zener rate constant

The binary rate coefficient for atomic collision processes governed by a potential curve‐crossing mechanism is obtained from the closed‐form Landau–Zener (LZ) cross section approximation. The results are presented in the form of a table (and graphs) of reduced LZ rate constants vs reduced temperature T* as a function of a reduced ’’system‐parameter’’ ζ*. The dependence of the rate coefficient upon the curve‐crossing characteristics of the system and the temperature is readily understood in terms of the structure of the parameters ζ* and T* and the scaling of the reduced rate constant.
A new twig blight of mamaki (Pipturus albidus) caused by Botryosphaeria ribis

Twig blight of the medicinal plant mamaki is very common in the wild on the island of Hawaii. This new disease was shown to be caused by Botryosphaeria ribis. The fungus also infected leaves of mamaki and produced blackish spots of various sizes and shapes. Lesions on the leaf may expand and reach the petiole and twig. Twig blight of mamaki can originate from direct infection of twigs by B. ribis as well as from leaf infection by the fungus.Key words: Botryosphaeria ribis, mamaki, Pipturus albidus, twig blight, leaf spot.
Instrument for Measuring the Roughness of Supersmooth Surfaces

An instrument, based upon a measurement of the relative magnitudes of scattered light from a standard and the test mirror, was built and tested. Although the theory of the data reduction depends upon Gaussian statistics, we have obtained good results even with non-Gaussian surfaces. This paper describes the instrument, its theory, and experimental results.
Germination of the macroconidium of Histoplasma capsulatum.

The pathogenic fungus of man, Histoplasma capsulatum Darling, has been known in culture since 1934, when DeMonbreun (6) and Hansmann and Schenken (13) independently succeeded in isolating it from patients suffering with histoplasmosis. In the ensuing years, this fungus has received intensive study, particularly in regard to its morphological ( 4, 7, 8, 14, 20), physiological (see review by Pine, 22), and pathological characteristics (25). Recent demonstrations by Emmons (9) and others (1, 2, 3, 11, 26, 28) that H. capsulatum is widespread in nature and occurs as a soil saprobe have focused attention on factors affecting the nonparasitic existence of this fungus. Wide distribution of the fungus in nature indicates that the conidia, which are the only known reproductive units, are readily dispersed and are capable of germination and proliferation under natural conditions. Determination of the factors limiting germination in this species may be useful in attempting to define the environments in which this fungus can be expected to occur. Relatively little attention has been given to the germination requirements of H. capsulatunm, although several investigators report limited observations on the process. Howell (14) obtained a high percentage of germination when conidia from a 10-week old culture were inoculated in broth medium, and germination was initiated in 15 hours. In a subsequent publication (15), however, he reported that conidia from 5and 7-week old cultures germinated erratically and failed to yield high germination percentages. DeMonbreun (6) likewise noted difficulty in germinating the conidia, but did obtain 15-20% germination when the conidia were dried 4-6 days at room temperature before being placed on a germination medium. Negroni (21) succeeded in inducing germination only when he soaked conidia in solutions of trypsin or papain for 24 hr at 37 C; germination was observed after 16 days. Grayston et al. (12) observed that germinability, as determined by colony counts, was affected by the culture medium. They obtained 15, 29, and 42% germi-
Hyperchloremic acidosis as a complication of imperforate anus with recto-urinary fistula

Abstract Two cases of hyperchloremic acidosis occurring as a complication in infants with high Type III imperforate anus and rectourinary fistula have been reported and discussed. The possibility of this complication of electrolyte imbalance occurring where a colostomy, a fistula and urinary infection are present has been stressed. Factors in the pathogenesis of hyperchloremic acidosis have been outlined in relation to the anatomic abnormalities present in imperforate anus. Particular emphasis has been laid on the recto-urinary fistula through which retrograde flow of urine occurs into the large distal colostomy loops. While control of the imbalance can be helped by vigorous intravenous therapy, combined with an indwelling catheter, definitive treatment consists of elimination of the fistula surgically, either as a separate procedure or as part of an abdominoperineal pull-through.
Parametric and non-parametric analysis of groups by trials design under variance-covariance inhomogeneity

The parametric groups by trials analysis of variance F ratio is a widely used statistical test. When the variancc-covariance assumption of the test is not met, researchers are commonly advised to use an epsilon-corrected F ratio. A non-parametric alternative has also been recommended when this assumption is not tenable. The present study compares the Type I error rate and power of the conventional F ratio, the epsilon-corrected F ratio, and a non-parametric statistic under various degrees of violation of the variance-covariance assumption. The results indicate that only under gross violation of the assumption does the non-parametric test show superior power to the parametric test. Additionally the results indicate that the power of the non-parametric test is also affected by violation of the variance-covariance assumption. In general the epsilon-corrected F ratio is recommended under the conditions investigated.
Numerical simulations of the life cycle of a baroclinic wave

A new conceptual visualization of cyclone-frontal evolution is presented by Shapiro and Keyser (1990). The primary differences between this model and the classical Norwegian frontal cyclone model are the absence of an occlusion, the presence of a warm-core seclusion, and the “bent back” warm front or westward extension of the warm front. In the present study, a mesoscale numerical model is used to investigate the kinematics and structural features of the bent back warm front. Simulations are performed using a 2nd-order closure turbulence parameterization with a sophisticated surface layer similarity scheme. The adiabatic and inviscid case is also examined. Results show that the seclusion and bent back warm front are present in both the adiabatic and inviscid case and using the 2nd-order closure parameterization. An occlusion also forms in later stages in both cases, indicating that the absence of an occlusion in the original publication of the Shapiro and Keyser model is a shortcoming. The results also show that, while the adiabatic components of the flow are responsible for creating the important features of cyclogenesis and frontogenesis, diabatic physical processes exert a strong influence on the ultimate cyclone/frontal structure. Sensitivity studies are performed in order to further investigate this issue. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1995.00115.x
Long-term follow-up of a phase II trial studying a weekly doxorubicin-based multiple drug adjuvant therapy for stage II node-positive carcinoma of the breast.

Background. Combination chemotherapy improves outcomes in women with breast cancer (BC) that involves axillary nodes. This single-arm study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive doxorubicin-based multi-drug regimen as adjuvant therapy in women with stage II, node positive breast cancer.
Learning to trade with insider information

This paper introduces algorithms for learning how to trade using insider (superior) information in Kyle's model of financial markets. Prior results in finance theory relied on the insider having perfect knowledge of the structure and parameters of the market. I show here that it is possible to learn the equilibrium trading strategy when its form is known even without knowledge of the parameters governing trading in the model. However, the rate of convergence to equilibrium is slow, and an approximate algorithm that does not converge to the equilibrium strategy achieves better utility when the horizon is limited. I analyze this approximate algorithm from the perspective of reinforcement learning and discuss the importance of domain knowledge in designing a successful learning algorithm.
On two methods for solving and estimating linear simultaneous equations under rational expectations

Abstract A method of Chow (1983) and a method of Dagli and Taylor (1982) for solving and estimating linear simultaneous equations under rational expectations are compared. The latter solution is shown to be a special case of the former in the sense of imposing a set of restrictions on the parameters of the former solution. Statistical methods to test the restrictions implicit in the latter solution are suggested. An illustrated model is provided to demonstrate the two methods, with the Dagli-Taylor method found to give inconsistent estimates when the restrictions are not met.
Polyethylene plastic needle guides for angiostomy.

SummaryThe construction of a polyethylene plastic angiostomy cannula is described. This cannula has many advantages for manometry of otherwise inaccessible structures in the intact animal.
Uncorrected refractive error and presbyopia among junior high school teachers in Jakarta, Indonesia.

AbstractPurpose: To report on the frequency of observed refractive and accommodative errors among junior high school teachers in Jakarta, Indonesia, who participated in a Helen Keller International screening, refraction and spectacle distribution program.Methods: A total of 965 teachers from 19 schools were eligible for screening; those with uncorrected distance visual acuity (VA) ≤6/12-3 and teachers ≥35 years old with uncorrected end-point print size >Jaeger (J) 6 were referred. Autorefraction and subjective refraction were performed for teachers with confirmed decreased VA. Refractive error was considered present if sphere ≤−0.75 diopters (D), sphere ≥+0.25D or cylinder ≤−0.50D resulted in ≥2 lines of improvement in VA. Presbyopia was considered present if an end-point print size >J6 improved by ≥1 optotype with the use of a lens ≥+1.00D.Results: Overall, 866 teachers were screened (89.7% of those eligible) with complete screening data available for 858 (99.0%), among whom 762 failed screening. Distanc...
Destabilization of the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase dimer upon interaction with N-acyl hydrazone inhibitors

N-(4-tert-butylbenzoyl)-2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde hydrazone (BBNH) inhibits both the DNA polymerase and ribonuclease H (RNase H) activities of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 reverse transcriptase. In this study, we show that BBNH binding impacts on the stability of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) heterodimer. The Gibbs free energy of dimer dissociation of HIV-1 RT is decreased in the presence of increasing concentrations of BBNH, resulting in a loss in stability of 3.8 kcal mol(-1). To evaluate whether this observed phenomenon was mediated by BBNH binding to one or more sites in RT, we synthesized a variety of BBNH analogs and identified (4-t-butylbenzoyl)-2-hydroxy-1-salicylyl hydrazone (BBSH) and (4,N,N-dimethylaminobenzoyl)-2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl hydrazone as specific inhibitors of RT DNA polymerase or RT RNase H activity, respectively. Interestingly, only BBSH provided significant destabilization of the HIV-1 RT dimer. The identification of these specific inhibitors, in combination with other biochemical data, suggests a model in which two molecules of BBNH bind per RT heterodimer. In this regard, only the binding of hydrazone molecules in the DNA polymerase domain activity elicits the observed destabilization of the HIV-1 RT heterodimer.
Is there a local feedback from the seminiferous tubules affecting activity of the Leydig cells

Silastic tubing containing cyproterone acetate or braided silk sutures impregnated with WIN18446 or ORF-1616 were inserted under the tunica albuginea of the testes. Spermatogenesis was suppressed in tubules in the immediate vicinity of the implants, but the interstitial tissue associated with the atrophic tubules appeared more abundant. Electron micrographs showed hypertrophy of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and other evidence of Leydig cell stimulation. Interstitial tissue in the same testis at a distance from the implants showed no evidence of stimulation. The results are discussed in relation to the possibility of a local feedback from the tubules modulating sensitivity of the Leydig cells to circulating gonadotropin.
The mechanism of enhanced insulin amyloid fibril formation by NaCl is better explained by a conformational change model.

The high propensity of insulin to fibrillate causes severe biomedical and biotechnological complications. Insulin fibrillation studies attain significant importance considering the prevalence of diabetes and the requirement of functional insulin in each dose. Although studied since the early years of the 20(th) century, elucidation of the mechanism of insulin fibrillation has not been understood completely. We have previously, through several studies, shown that insulin hexamer dissociates into monomer that undergoes partial unfolding before converting into mature fibrils. In this study we have established that NaCl enhances insulin fibrillation mainly due to subtle structural changes and is not a mere salt effect. We have carried out studies both in the presence and absence of urea and Gdn.HCl and compared the relationship between conformation of insulin induced by urea and Gdn.HCl with respect to NaCl at both pH 7.4 (hexamer) and pH 2 (monomer). Fibril formation was followed with a Thioflavin T assay and structural changes were monitored by circular dichroism and size-exclusion chromatography. The results show salt-insulin interactions are difficult to classify as commonly accepted Debye-Huckel or Hofmeister series interactions but instead a strong correlation between the association states and conformational states of insulin and their propensity to fibrillate is evident.
Spatiotemporal structure of molecular evolution of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in Vietnam.

Background Vietnam is one of the countries most affected by outbreaks of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses. First identified in Vietnam in poultry in 2001 and in humans in 2004, the virus has since caused 111 cases and 56 deaths in humans. In 2003/2004 H5N1 outbreaks, nearly the entire poultry population of Vietnam was culled. Our earlier study (Wan et al., 2008, PLoS ONE, 3(10): e3462) demonstrated that there have been at least six independent H5N1 introductions into Vietnam and there were nine newly emerged reassortants from 2001 to 2007 in Vietnam. H5N1 viruses in Vietnam cluster distinctly around Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, the nature of the relationship between genetic divergence and geographic patterns is still unclear. Methodology/Principal Findings In this study, we hypothesized that genetic distances between H5N1 viruses in Vietnam are correlated with geographic distances, as the result of distinct population and environment patterns along Vietnam's long north to south longitudinal extent. Based on this hypothesis, we combined spatial statistical methods with genetic analytic techniques and explicitly used geographic space to explore genetic evolution of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses at the sub-national scale in Vietnam. Our dataset consisted of 125 influenza viruses (with whole genome sets) isolated in Vietnam from 2003 to 2007. Our results document the significant effect of space and time on genetic evolution and the rise of two regional centers of genetic mixing by 2007. These findings give insight into processes underlying viral evolution and suggest that genetic differentiation is associated with the distance between concentrations of human and poultry populations around Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Conclusions/Significance The results show that genetic evolution of H5N1 viruses in Vietnamese domestic poultry is highly correlated with the location and spread of those viruses in geographic space. This correlation varies by scale, time, and gene, though a classic isolation by distance pattern is observed. This study is the first to characterize the geographic structure of influenza viral evolution at the sub-national scale in Vietnam and can shed light on how H5N1 HPAIVs evolve in certain geographic settings.
Regularities in volatility and the price of risk following large stock market movements in the US and Japan

Abstract We examine the effects of large price changes on volatility and the price of risk of two broad stock indices, the CRSP value-weighted index of NYSE and AMEX stocks and the TOPIX of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Volatility generally rises after large price changes of either sign but usually revert to pre-jump levels within a week or two. In contrast, the price of risk (except for the first day after a jump) typically declines following large price increases and rises following large price declines with little apparent tendency to revert toward pre-jump levels before the arrival of the next jump.
PHENANTHRENE MINERALIZATION IN SOIL IN THE PRESENCE OF NONIONIC SURFACTANTS

This research addresses the effect of surfactant addition on the microbial degradation of slightly soluble organic compounds in soil. Biodegradation of phenanthrene, coated on sand with a low f oc, was studied in the presence of nonionic surfactants. Phenanthrene coated sand was designed to simulate soil contaminated with excess phenanthrene which remains after evaporation of the lighter hydrocarbon solvents. A mixed culture acclimated to phenanthrene was used as the inoculum. Four nonionic surfactants were used in this study: Triton X‐114, Brij 35, Tween 40 and Corexit 0600. Continuous flow columns were employed to simulate groundwater flow through aquifers. The addition of Corexit 0600 and Tween 40 surfactants enhanced the biodegradation rate of phenanthrene while there was no enhancement by the other two surfactants. No appreciable lag period for mineralization was observed in these experiments. Additional tests are required to assess surfactant bacteria interactions to determine why certain surfactant...
Kinetics of maturation of the amino termini of the cell proteins of Escherichia coli

Abstract 1. 1. The removal of the initiating N -formylmethionine termini of Escherichia coli cell protein has been followed with [ 14 C]methionine labeling during biosynthesis under a variety of conditions. Label equilibrates first into internal protein linkages, and then into both free and masked N-termini. The masking group has the acid lability of N -formylmethionine. 2. 2. Some deformylation is immediate or lagless, as can be demonstrated with ribosomal protein in the presence of chloramphenicol. 3. 3. In one-third or more of the cell protein deformylation requires about the time (5 sec) needed for polypeptide assembly during growth. The interval is unaffected by uracil depletion but increases to 10–20 sec during starvation of one or more amino acids and even longer with the RC rel mutant. From the findings with uracil depletion, the translation time of an average cell protein appears relatively uninfluenced by the presence or absence of growth per se . 4. 4. Many N-termini of cell proteins are stably formylated, and can be isolated intact from cell protein more than a generation after synthesis. 5. 5. Loss of initiating methionine, as judged from the unmasking of subterminal [ 14 C]alanine is comparatively sluggish, requiring a minimum of 8 sec and an average of 36 sec in growth.
Calmodulin-binding Locations on the Skeletal and Cardiac Ryanodine Receptors

Ryanodine receptor types 1 (RyR1) and 2 (RyR2) are calcium release channels that are highly enriched in skeletal and cardiac muscle, respectively, where they play an essential role in excitation-contraction coupling. Apocalmodulin (apo-CaM) weakly activates RyR1 but inhibits RyR2, whereas Ca2+-calmodulin inhibits both isoforms. Previous cryo-EM studies showed distinctly different binding locations on RyR1 for the two states of CaM. However, recent studies employing FRET appear to challenge these findings. Here, using cryo-EM, we have determined that a CaM mutant that is incapable of binding calcium binds to RyR1 at the apo site, regardless of the calcium concentration. We have also re-determined the location of RyR1-bound Ca2+-CaM using uniform experimental conditions. Our results show the existence of the two overlapping but distinct binding sites for CaM in RyR1 and imply that the binding location switch is due to Ca2+ binding to CaM, as opposed to direct effects of Ca2+ on RyR1. We also discuss explanations that could resolve the apparent conflict between the cryo-EM and FRET results. Interestingly, apo-CaM binds to RyR2 at a similar binding location to that of Ca2+-CaM on RyR1, in seeming agreement with the inhibitory effects of these two forms of CaM on their respective receptors.
Optimizing the natural gas supply mix of local distribution utilities

A large mixed-integer linear program (MILP) and a much smaller nonlinear programming (NLP) approximation of the MILP, involving simulation and response surface estimation via regression analysis, are proposed to solve the problem of the optimal selection of natural gas supply contracts by local gas distribution utilities. Each potential supply source is characterized by several price and nonprice parameters. Weather variability is the basic stochastic factor that drives the demand for gas by various market segments. The model minimizes the total cost of gas supply and market curtailment, and thus determines the size of the interruptible market. A numerical application of the methodology illustrates the excellent quality of the NLP approximation and the importance of the trade-offs between contract characteristics. A multi-temporal extension of the modeling methodology is outlined.
Celebrating the Smithsonian soils exhibit in the classroom with the State/Representative Soil Project.

State/representative soil is one of many symbols (e.g., tree, flower, bird, etc.) adopted by citizens to be recognized as an important item to their state. We have developed a set of laboratory exercises, assignments, and exam questions utilizing the state/representative soil that gives college students an opportunity to practice interpretation of soil series descriptions, taxonomic classes, soil forming factors, and soil physical and chemical properties. Sixty-seven Clemson University students from various fields (horticulture, forestry, agricultural mechanization, agricultural education, wildlife biology, and environmental science) had a hands-on experience with the State/Representative Soil Project during the CSENV 202: Soils course taught in the spring of 2006. Student responses to the laboratory exercises were strongly positive, both in terms of how the State/Representative Soil Project helped them understand a range of soil science topics as well as their practical applications. Incorporation of the State/Representative Soil Project into agricultural science education should have a significant impact on the quality of soil science education and training.
A formal theory for male-preferring stopping rules of childbearing: sex differences in birth order and in the number of siblings

Through mathematical deductions, this article shows certain macro-demographic consequences of individually employed male-preferring stopping rules in childbearing. It is shown that male-preferring stopping rules generate differences between boys and girls in birth order and in the number of siblings. Two situations are considered regarding the latent probability of having a boy: population homogeneity and population heterogeneity. The sex difference in the number of siblings exists even under population homogeneity, and the difference remains constant when each couple employs a distinct alternative rule. On the other hand, the sex difference in the birth order exists only under population heterogeneity. Substantive implications of these findings are discussed.
PLACEBOS AND NEUROFEEDBACK: A CASE FOR FACILITATING AND MAXIMIZING PLACEBO RESPONSE IN NEUROFEEDBACK TREATMENTS

This article provides an overview of the nature of placebo responses. A critical review is provided of placebo-controlled psychopharmacology research, demonstrating that a large proportion of the improvements resulting from psychiatric medication treatments is the result of placebo effects. This finding calls into question the degree to which psychiatric treatments are genuinely evidence based. The value, limitations, and ethical problems associated with placebo-controlled research in the field of neurofeedback are then discussed. Placebo effects are an active ingredient in all therapeutic modalities. Rather than being a negative to be controlled, however, clinicians can view placebo responses as actually representing a resource to be encouraged and maximized. Practical examples are offered for creating positive expectancies and for the use of positive suggestions to further enhance neurofeedback treatment outcomes.
The synthesis of 11,11‐dideuterolinoleic acid

The synthesis of 11,11-dideuterooleic acid is described. The Wittig reaction is used to introduce the carbon-carbon double bond, giving a mixture of which better than 90% is the desired cis-isomer. Two alternative routes gave deuterium incorporation of 95 and >98%d2.
Intended Consequences: Jurisdictional Reform and Issue Control In the U.S. House of Representatives

The power of congressional committees rests in large part on their ability to set the legislative agenda in particular issue areas. But how do committees acquire their issue jurisdictions? Existing research points to informal committee turf wars— not collective reforms—as the roots of jurisdictional allocations (King 1994, 1997). Yet the House of Representatives has made nearly 150 formal changes to its committees' jurisdictions since 1973. We investigated the effects of one prominent instance of extensive jurisdictional changes, the Bolling-Hansen reforms of 1975, and found that this body of reforms advanced collective goals of improved policy coordination and enhanced information sharing.
The Missing Link: Research on Teacher Education.

Teacher education has recently come under attack for its perceived lack of efficacy in preparing teachers for classroom duty. A lack of comprehensive research in teacher education makes it difficult to understand the effects of teacher education programs on student learning. There is a missing link between what happens in teacher education programs how it affects student learning outcomes. Methodological issues make it difficult for researchers to isolate the contributions of teacher education programs to teacher learning. This article examines what research tells us about teacher education quality and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Examining the Impact of Negative Attributes On Consumer Preference and Willingness to Pay in the Vacation Ownership Industry: A Conjoint Analysis

Examining the Impact of Negative Attributes On Consumer Preference and Willingness to Pay in the Vacation Ownership Industry: A Conjoint Analysis This study employs a conjoint analysis approach to examine consumer preference and willingness to pay for the vacation ownership (timeshare) product. The study focuses on attributes that have been classified as negative attributes during the sales process to determine if the anticipated effect of reductions in preference and willingness to pay are supported. With a sample size of 3,200 respondents familiar with the timeshare product, the findings challenge contemporary literature that suggests purchase incentives negatively impact consumer preference and willingness to pay.
A novel Eph receptor-interacting IgSF protein provides C. elegans motoneurons with midline guidepost function.

Summary Background The ventral midline is a prominent structure in vertebrate and invertebrate nervous systems that provides crucial topological information for guiding axons to their appropriate target destinations. Rather than being composed of specialized midline glia cells as in many other species, the embryonic midline of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is physically defined by motoneuron cell bodies that separate the left from the right ventral cord fascicles. Their function during development, if any, is not known. Results We show here that besides being components of the postembryonic locomotory circuit, these embryonic motoneurons (eMNs) actively provide midline guidance information for a specific subset of ventral midline axons. This information is provided in the form of a novel, cell-surface-anchored immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) member, WRK-1. WRK-1 acts in eMNs to prevent follower axons from inappropriately crossing the ventral midline. We describe the function of the Eph receptor vab-1 and multiple ephrin ligands at the midline, and we show by double mutant analysis and physical interaction tests that WRK-1 functionally interacts with the Eph receptor system. This interaction appears to occur exclusively in the context of axon guidance at the ventral midline but not in other cellular contexts, thereby suggesting that Eph receptor signaling is mechanistically distinct in different tissue types. Conclusions Our studies reveal cellular and molecular components of axon midline patterning and suggest that Ephrin signaling relies on previously unknown accessory components.
Biological Methane Oxidation: Regulation, Biochemistry, and Active Site Structure of Particulate Methane Monooxygenase

Particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO) is a threesubunit integral membrane enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of methane to methanol. Although pMMO is the predominant methane oxidation catalyst in nature, it has proved difficult to isolate, and most questions regarding its molecular structure, active site composition, chemical mechanism, and genetic regulation remain unanswered. Copper ions are believed to play a key role in both pMMO regulation and catalysis, and there is some evidence that the enzyme contains iron as well. A number of research groups have solubilized and purified or partially purified pMMO. These preparations have been characterized by biochemical and biophysical methods. In addition, aspects of methane monooxygenase gene regulation and copper accumulation in methanotrophs have been studied. This review summarizes for the first time the often controversial pMMO literature, focusing on recent progress and highlighting unresolved issues.
From Oracy to Literacy: Changing Clinical Perceptions

Language specialists, particularly speech-language pathologists, have been largely invested in serving the needs of individuals with oral speech-language disorders. The basis for this investment is explored through a review of the growth of the profession in the 20th century. Research over the past
Interstitial Diffusion of Gold and Silver in Indium

The diffusivities $D$ of silver in the $c$ and $a$ directions of indium and gold in randomly oriented single crystals of indium have been measured by a radioactive-tracer technique. They are described by: ${{D}_{\frac{\mathrm{Ag}}{\mathrm{In}}}}^{\mathrm{a}}=5.2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}1} \mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}\frac{12800}{\mathrm{RT}})$, ${{D}_{\frac{\mathrm{Ag}}{\mathrm{In}}}}^{\mathrm{c}}=1.1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}1} \mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}\frac{11500}{\mathrm{RT}})$, and ${D}_{\frac{\mathrm{Au}}{\mathrm{In}}}=9\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}3} \mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}\frac{6700}{\mathrm{RT}})$. The rates of diffusion of silver and gold in indium are thus several orders of magnitude greater than the self-diffusion rate of indium. These results indicate that gold and silver are dissolved at least partly in the interstitial state, in agreement with a theory which predicts that $d\ensuremath{-}d$ correlation forces should cause dissolved noble metals to favor interstitial sites in indium.
Cell‐wall carbohydrates and their modification as a resource for biofuels

Plant cell walls represent the most abundant renewable resource on this planet. Despite their great abundance, only 2% of this resource is currently used by humans. Hence, research into the feasibility of using plant cell walls in the production of cost-effective biofuels is desirable. The main bottleneck for using wall materials is the recalcitrance of walls to efficient degradation into fermentable sugars. Manipulation of the wall polysaccharide biosynthetic machinery or addition of wall structure-altering agents should make it possible to tailor wall composition and architecture to enhance sugar yields upon wall digestion for biofuel fermentation. Study of the biosynthetic machinery and its regulation is still in its infancy and represents a major scientific and technical research challenge. Of course, any change in wall structure to accommodate cost-efficient biofuel production may have detrimental effects on plant growth and development due to the diverse roles of walls in the life of a plant. However, the diversity and abundance of wall structures present in the plant kingdom gives hope that this challenge can be met.
Fatal Maltreatment by Mothers: A Proposed Framework.

This paper proposes a framework for understanding fatal maltreatment by mothers based on an in-depth study of incarcerated women. Despite its extreme outcome, fatal maltreatment is not homogeneous. While the specifics of each case varied, the circumstances leading to the fatality followed a similar progression. The framework is characterized by a recurrent pattern of abuse culminating in the fatality. All of the women had abused the deceased child prior to the fatality. The women provided warning signals to professionals and to members of their personal networks (kin, friends, neighbors) by alerting them to the abusive incidents. The fatal incident was not a one-time assault, but the exit point of a continuing pattern of abusive interactions that was maintained by the woman's ability to explain, rationalize, and minimize the abuse to herself and to her network. Future research efforts must be directed beyond the fatal incident to the circumstances leading up to it. Intervention and education must be aimed beyond biological parents to the wider network and community.
Lifestyle factors among female prisoners with histories of psychiatric treatment

Abstract This study compared the childhood and adult living contexts, patterns of alcohol and drug use, and criminal involvement of women prisoners with histories of mental health treatment in the free community to those who have not accessed such services. A random sample of 500 women prisoners was interviewed during the intake and admission process. Respondents who have used mental services were typically older White women, undereducated, unemployed, and had children. Subjects who used mental health services were more likely to have histories of alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin abuse. Women who have used mental services were more likely to have been incarcerated for nonviolent offenses. As more female offenders enter prison with various mental health needs, prison organizations will be called on to improve their techniques for identifying women who have had prior contacts with mental health services.
Bam! Pow! Graphic Novels Fight Stereotypes in Academic Libraries: Supporting, Collecting, Promoting

This study examines the launch of a graphic novel collection in an academic library and presents a study analyzing the increase of titles in American Research Libraries with the subject heading “Graphic Novels” between fall 2008 and fall 2009. Statistics show a 40% increase, averaging 62 additional titles, during a year of global financial crisis. Exploring the prejudice against comics lingering in more traditional corners of academia, this paper encourages librarians to counter stereotypes and therefore bring more people, including other librarians, to view graphic novels as literature. This study includes recommended practices for supporting, collecting, and promoting these collections.
Incremental clustering for very large document databases: initial MARIAN experience

Abstract Clustering of document databases is useful for both browsing and searching purposes; however, this can be a prohibitively expensive computational process for large collections. This problem is compounded when the clustering structure must reflect a constantly changing database. Therefore, efficient algorithms which maintain an existing clustering structure are desirable. This study provides the details of a large-scale implementation of the Cover-Coefficient-based Incremental Clustering Methodology (C2ICM). The experiments performed on a sample of the MARIAN database show that its resource requirements are within practical bounds for most platforms. Furthermore, C2ICM) offers considerable savings over reclustering. The results of this study will lead to an additional type of browsing and/or searching facility on the Virginia Tech-based MARIAN large online public access library catalog (OPAC) project.
Radiation Lobectomy: Preliminary Findings of Hepatic Volumetric Response to Lobar Yttrium-90 Radioembolization

To describe volumetric changes of “radiation lobectomy,” a manifestation of hepatic parenchymal response to lobar 90Y microsphere radioembolization. Twenty patients exhibiting this phenomenon were identified. Pre- and posttreatment absolute right and left hepatic lobar volume (HLV), relative HLV (rHLV = HLV/total liver volume), and degree of lobar atrophy (DA) or hypertrophy (DH) (DA or DH = |posttreatment rHLV – pretreatment rHLV|) were determined. Laboratory toxicities, tumor response, and patient survival were also assessed. Twenty patients with primary (HCC, n = 17; peripheral cholangiocarcinoma, n = 3) liver malignancies demonstrated findings of radiation lobectomy. Initial absolute right and left HLV was 955 cm3 (range 644–1,842 cm3, rHLV = 57%) and 719 cm3 (range 328–1,387 cm3, rHLV = 43%), respectively. Following 90Y, absolute right HLV decreased to 460 cm3 (range 185–948 cm3, 52% reduction, rHLV = 31%, DA = 26%, P < 0.0001), while absolute left HLV increased to 1,004 cm3 (range 560–1,558 cm3, 40% increase, rHLV = 69%, DH = 26%, P < 0.0001). No grade 3 or 4 bilirubin toxicities were encountered. Tumor response ranged from 55% to 70% by size criteria. Forty-six percent 5-year survival was achieved in HCC patients. Radiation lobectomy following 90Y radioembolization of right lobe tumors manifests extensive contralateral lobar hypertrophy, high response rates, and prolonged survival. This phenomenon was noted in 6.4% (20/315) of the entire cohort and 19.8% (20/101) of patients with unilobar right lobe tumors. Further investigation is necessary to determine contributing factors that may predict this effect.
Soft X-Ray Emission from Selected Isolated Pulsars

The soft X-ray emission from isolated neutron stars (NSs) may originate from a number of processes, each of which probes a unique characteristic of the interior or magnetospheric structure. In order to characterize this emission in the context of current models, we have begun an archival investigation of such emission using data from the ROSAT Observatory. Here we report on analysis for seven pulsars based upon data taken with the ROSAT Position Sensitive Proportional Counter (PSPC). For each pulsar, we derive upper limits for the NS surface temperature as well as luminosity values or upper limits associated with a Crab-like power-law interpretation. Several of the pulsars were detected, and for these we have investigated scenarios for emission associated with the cooling of the hot NS interior as well as with the pulsar spin down. The emission from PSR 2334+61 and PSR 0114+58 appears consistent with a spin-down origin, although we cannot rule out emission associated with cooling of the NS interior. For PSR 1822-09, we find that the surface temperature upper limit implied by the nondetection falls below the predictions of several cooling models, potentially providing constraints on interpretations of the interior equation of state. Emission from the vicinity of PSR 1642-03 may be produced by an extended synchrotron nebula associated with the pulsar, but such models appear problematic. Alternatively, the observed flux may be produced by a background object in the field of the pulsar position.
Egg Production and Egg Composition of Parental Lines and F1 and F2 Crosses of White Rock Chickens Selected for 56-Day Body Weight

Abstract Egg production and weights of eggs and their components were measured in body weight-selected lines and in reciprocal F1 and F2 crosses. Nonadditive genetic variation was significant for age at onset of lay; percentage of hen-day ovulations, hen-day egg production, and normal eggs produced; egg weight and shell thickness; percentage of dry yolk and total moisture; shell and yolk dry matter; and ratios of albumen to yolk (A:Y) both on a wet and dry weight basis. There was recombination loss for all of these traits except percentage of hen-day ovulations, dry yolk, and total moisture; and shell dry matter, thickness and wet A:Y ratios. Reciprocal effects were negligible except for percentage of dry albumen and A:Y ratios. Greater yolk dry matter in the high BW line was observed than in the low BW line; this was consistent with observations of lipid overproduction in fast growing populations of chickens.
Patterns and predictors of mammography utilization among breast cancer survivors

BACKGROUND Improvements in cancer detection and treatment have resulted in increasing numbers of breast cancer survivors. Information regarding the use of mammography by breast cancer survivors is limited. METHODS The use of surveillance mammography was examined over a 5-year period in a retrospective cohort of women age ≥ 55 years who were diagnosed with incident primary breast cancer (1996–1997) while enrolled in 1 of 4 geographically diverse integrated health systems. RESULTS Of the 797 women included in the study, 80% (n = 636) underwent mammograms during the first year after treatment for breast cancer. The percentage of women having mammograms during each yearly period decreased significantly over time. In multivariable analyses, older women with comorbid illnesses or those with late-stage disease were less likely to undergo mammograms, whereas those who underwent breast-conserving therapy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] of 1.38 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.09–1.75]) were more likely to have mammograms. Women who had outpatient visits with a gynecologist (adjusted OR of 3.49 [95% CI, 2.55–4.79]), or a primary care physician (adjusted OR of 2.21 [95% CI, 1.73–2.82]) during the year were more likely to undergo mammograms in that year. CONCLUSIONS The use of mammography among breast cancer survivors declines over time. Efforts are needed to increase awareness among healthcare providers and breast cancer survivors of the value of follow-up mammography. The current findings highlight the importance of maintaining ongoing contact with primary care physicians and gynecologists. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Germination of blastospores of Histoplasma capsulatum

Factors affecting blastospore germination by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum were studied. Those incubated at 23°C in distilled water, physiological saline, phosphate buffered saline, or in distilled water with KCl, CaCl2 and MgCl2 did not germinate. None of the tested carbohydrates, or keto- and fatty acids stimulated germination. Less than 10% of the blastospores germinated in media with glutamic acid, isoleucine, serine, or valine, and no germination occurred on media with any of the other 13 amino acids tested. The best germination percentages were obtained on commercial casein hydrolysate (acid hydrolysed) where 75% of the yeasts germinated by 72 hr. of incubation at 23°C. The highest percentage of germination was observed on solid subtrates of casein hydrolysate at pH 7.0, which were inoculated with from 5 × 106 to 5 × 107 yeasts/ml and incubated at 23°C. Under optimal conditions, however, only 25% of the yeasts germinated on a synthetic medium composed of the 17 amino acids reported to ...
Use or abuse.

Abstract The age-related changes in plasticity in the nervous system might be pathway specific and this plasticity may decline with continuous use.