cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating aboveground biomass and leaf area of low-stature Arctic shrubs with terrestrial LiDAR

article i nfo Arctic tundra ecosystems are responding to effects of climatic warming via shifts in vegetation composition and increased woody biomass. In this sensitive ecosystem, minor increases in woody plant biomass may induce sig- nificant changes in ecosystem structure and function. However, establishing methods for quantifying and poten- tially scaling woody plant biomass in low-stature biomes is challenging. In this study, we investigated the potentialtouseterrestriallaserscanning(TLS)toremotelyestimateharvestedbiomassandleafareaoftwodom- inant low-stature (b1.5 m tall) Arctic shrub species in 0.64 m 2 subplots established in northern Alaskan tundra. We explored two biomass estimation approaches (volumetric surface differencing and voxel counting) applied topoint clouds obtained fromclose-range(2m)and variable-range(b50m)terrestriallaser scans.Relationships between harvested biomassand TLS metricswere strongfor all combinationsofapproaches, with voxel counting giving a marginally better result than surface differencing for close-range data (R 2 = 0.94 vs 0.92; RMSE= 102 g vs 117 g) and surface differencing proving stronger than voxel counting for variable-range data (R 2 = 0.91 vs 0.82; RMSE = 119 g vs 169 g). Strong relationships between total harvested biomass and total leaf dry mass (R 2 = 0.93; RMSE = 13.4 g), and between leaf dry mass and leaf wet area (R 2 = 0.99; RMSE = 9.01 cm 2 )j ustify estimation of shrub leaf area from TLS-derived shrub biomass. Our results show that rapidlyacquired, repeatable terrestrial laser scans taken at multiple ranges can be processed using simple biomass estimation approaches to yield aboveground biomass and leaf area estimates for low-stature shrubs at fine spatial scales (sub-meter to ~50 meters) with the fidelity required to monitor small but ecologically meaningful changes in tundra structure. Further, these data may be employed as ground reference data for broader scale remote sensing data collection, such as airborne LiDAR scanning, that would enable shrub biomass and leaf-area estimates at fine spatial resolution over large spatial extents.
Tectonic and eustatic controls of late quaternary shelf sedimentation along the Central California (Santa Cruz) continental margin: high-resolution seismic stratigraphic evidence

Abstract A high-resolution “uniboom”, seismic stratigraphic investigation of a portion of the central California continental shelf has demonstrated that depositional patterns and sequences are controlled largely by an interplay of glacioeustatic sea-level fluctuations superimposed on local tectonics. Wrench tectonics, associated with active right-lateral shear along the San Gregorio fault zone, and the Pigeon Point Basement High control the location, distribution and overall geometry of depositional sequences via en echelon folding and differential subsidence. Areas of relatively thick and thin late Quaternary sediments conform in large part with structures produced during wrenching. Glacioeustatic sea-level oscillations have also shaped depositional patterns and sequences. Correlation of our seismic stratigraphic data with a southern California continental margin sea-level curve, suggests that during the last glacial maximum, approximately 18,000 yrs ago, a relative lowstand resulted in the erosion of a distinct unconformity upon which late Quaternary sediments have accumulated. A rapid rise of sea level to a relative stillstand, approximately 12,000 yrs ago, produced a concave-up, marine terrace profile across the mid-shelf, that has since been infilled with as much as 22 m of Holocene clastic sediments. A relative drop of sea level, approximately 11,000 yrs ago, allowed sediments to build seaward as a series of prograding clinoforms that form the basal sequences of the late Quaternary sediment fill. The succeeding Holocene transgression partially eroded the top of this earlier regressive sequence, and has now established a typical, wave-graded shelf along which sediments fine in a seaward direction to water depths of 90–100 m. At greater shelf water depths, surface sediments coarsen and appear to be relicts of previous relative sea-level lowstands. The presence of now submerged and buried marine terraces along both the central and southern California continental margins, at elevations lower than modern terraces actively forming today, suggests that flights of raised marine terraces may not always decrease in age with decreasing elevation, as is commonly assumed for relative dating. Because sea-level fluctuations during at least the past 700,000 yrs, have been both numerous and of unequal magnitudes, it is likely that age inversions will occur within any given flight of raised Quaternary marine terraces along tectonically active continental margins.
In the wake of transgressions: Examining forgiveness communication in personal relationships

This study evaluated several structural equation models testing the relations between forgiveness communication styles, offense and offender variables, and relational characteristics. Results suggest partners' style of forgiveness (i.e., direct, indirect, and conditional) is shaped by offense and offender variables. Specifically, offender remorse positively predicted both direct and conditional forgiveness, offense severity negatively predicted indirect forgiveness, and blameworthiness positively predicted conditional forgiveness. Results also demonstrated that whereas direct forgiving following transgressions improved relationships (i.e., decreased relational damage and increased satisfaction), conditional forgiving detracted from relationships (i.e., increased relational damage). Indirect forgiveness, in contrast to the other styles, was unrelated to relational damage. These and other findings are discussed in light of research/theorizing on interpersonal forgiveness, relational maintenance, facework, and communication accommodation.
Estimates of pediatric medication use in the United States: Current abilities and limitations

Abstract Background: Resources are available for measuring adult medication use, but similar resources have not been fully developed for measuring pediatric use. Policy decisions require an understanding of the population affected, the number of children, their ages, sex, geographic distribution, race and ethnicity, and insurance status, as well as trends over time. Objective: In this article, databases providing information about prescription drugs used in the United States are reviewed with respect to pediatric populations. Methods: A series of searches were conducted in MEDLINE using these terms: frequency, prevalence, drug utilization, children, pediatric, drug usage, medications , and prescriptions . Authors of selected articles were interviewed to identify salient issues in the measurement of pediatric medication use. Preliminary analysis of several databases followed within the context of government implementation of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act. This was followed by further MEDLINE searches and synthesis of the literature. Results: Databases with information about pediatric population medication use included 7 with outpatient data and 4 with inpatient data. Outpatient data were available from government and private sources, but inpatient data were available from private sources only. Three of the government and 1 of the private databases with outpatient data had sample sizes of several thousand, too small to allow analysis of frequency trends in pediatric populations or subpopulations, in which many drugs are used by fewer than 0.01% of patients. Conclusions: Sample size needs are greater when measuring pediatric medication use because the overall level of use is lower among children than adults. Databases resulting from hospital quality efforts, conglomeration of pharmacy benefit records, and standardization of state Medicaid records offer opportunities to describe prescription medication use in samples of several hundred thousand to several million children but will require dedicated resources.
Associations of diet and physical activity during pregnancy with risk for excessive gestational weight gain.

Objective We sought to identify modifiable risk factors for excessive gestational weight gain (GWG). Study Design We assessed associations of diet and physical activity with excessive GWG among 1388 women from the Project Viva cohort study. Results Three hundred seventy-nine women (27%) were overweight (body mass index ≥ 26 kg/m 2 ) and 703 (51%) experienced excessive GWG, according to Institute of Medicine guidelines. In multivariable logistic regression models, we found that intake of total energy (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00-1.22, per 500 kcal/d), dairy (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.00-1.17, per serving per day), and fried foods (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 0.91-13.24, per serving per day) were directly associated with excessive GWG. First trimester vegetarian diet (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.28-0.78) and midpregnancy walking (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.83-1.01, per 30 minutes per day) and vigorous physical activity (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.60-0.97, per 30 minutes per day) were inversely associated with excessive GWG. Conclusion A healthful diet and greater physical activity are associated with reduced risk for excessive GWG.
In Defense of New Stoicism: Public Advocacy and Political Thought in the Age of Nero

Philosophers have rarely been on good terms with the city and its rulers. Among the rhetorical devices with which they have defended themselves and their discipline, few have proven more reliable than the Straussian technique of “philosophic politics.” This article calls attention to a defining moment in the history of this persuasive technique: Seneca the Younger's defense of Roman Stoicism in the mid-first century CE. In light of his public advocacy and political thought, the article concludes that an expansion of the concept of philosophic politics is in order. In addition to philosophical tracts and treatises, it should be widened to include the nonphilosophical works of their authors.
Assessment of continuum models for sandwich panel honeycomb cores

Abstract Detailed finite element models are used for predicting the free-vibration response of infinitely long and rectangular sandwich panels. The panels considered have square-cell honeycomb core and simply supported edges. The sandwich core and face sheets are modeled by using three-dimensional solid elements and two-dimensional plate elements. The predictions of the finite element models are compared with those obtained by using higher-order sandwich theory for panels with the core replaced by an effective (equivalent) continuum. Three different approaches are used for estimating the effective material properties of the equivalent continuum layer.
Strongly e-movable convergence and spaces of ANR's

Abstract Let X be a metric space and let ANR(X) denote the hyperspace of all compact ANR's in X. This paper introduces a notion of a strongly e-movable convergence for sequences in ANR(X) and proves several characterizations of strongly e-movable convergence. For a (complete) separable metric space X we show that ANR(X) with the topology induced by strongly e-movable convergence can be metrized as a (complete) separable metric space. Moreover, if X is a finite-dimensional compactum, then strongly e-movable convergence induces on ANR(X) the same topology as that induced by Borsuk's homotopy metric. For a separable Q-manifold M, ANR(M) is locally arcwise connected and A, B ϵ ANR(M) can be joined by an arc in ANR(M) iff there is a simple homotopy equivalence ϕ: A → B homotopic to the inclusion of A into M.
Eye movements and the span of the effective stimulus in visual search

The span of the effective stimulus during visual search through an unstructured alphanumeric array was investigated by using eye-contingent-display changes while the subjects searched for a target letter. In one condition, a window exposing the search array moved in synchrony with the subjects’ eye movements, and the size of the window was varied. Performance reached asymptotic levels when the window was 5°. In another condition, a foveal mask moved in synchrony with each eye movement, and the size of the mask was varied. The foveal mask conditions were much more detrimental to search behavior than the window conditions, indicating the importance of foveal vision during search. The size of the array also influenced performance, but performance reached asymptote for all array sizes tested at the same window size, and the effect of the foveal mask was the same for all array sizes. The results indicate that both acuity and difficulty of the search task influenced the span of the effective stimulus during visual search.
Evidence-Based Social Skills Interventions for Students at Risk for EBD

Children and youth with or at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs) present substantial challenges for schools, teachers, parents, and peers. Social skills interventions have been shown to be effective for this population. Meta-analytic reviews of this literature show that about 65% of students with EBD will improve when given social skills interventions. Social skills function as academic enablers and contribute to higher academic achievement. Problem behaviors function as academic disablers and are associated with lowered academic achievement. Next steps in this literature are to establish an evidence-based approach to classifying acquisition and performance deficits and to develop Tier 3 social skills intervention strategies.
Observations on the boundary between zeolite facies and prehnite-pumpellyite facies

Using graphical analysis of the system CaO-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O-CO2, this paper derives a topology relating the minerals calcite, laumontite, wairakite, prehnite, quartz, and zoisite. Simple thermodynamic reasoning allows this system to be applied to natural rocks and indicates that the first appearance of the assemblage epidote-chlorite-quartz (±albite) should mark the upper boundary of zeolite facies. This assemblage forms at the expense of laumontite+prehnite, laumontite+calcite, or laumontite+pumpellyite, with wairakite likely to replace laumontite as the stable zeolite at low pressures. In natural systems this proposed facies boundary is multivariant and, hence, it is likely to be strongly sensitive to compositional variables. For example, Na-bearing wairakite will be more stable than pure Ca-wairakite and increasing abundance of Fe3+ will tend to stabilize epidote+quartz at the expense of the zeolites. Because of this, monitoring the composition of minerals such as epidote, prehnite, or wairakite from lowvariance assemblages may provide a more-sensitive indicator of metamorphic grade than the presence or absence of any particular mineral assemblage.
CaMKII-independent effects of KN93 and its inactive analog KN92: Reversible inhibition of L-type calcium channels

Widely regarded as a specific and potent inhibitor of CaM kinases, especially CaMKII, KN93 has long been used to investigate the possible roles of CaMKII in a wide range of biological functions and systems, such as cultured cells, primary neurons, and brain slices. However, here we present evidence showing that KN93 and its structural analog KN92, which does not inhibit CaMKII, exert an unexpected, reversible, and specific reduction of currents of L-type calcium channels (CaV1.3 and CaV1.2), as compared to N-type calcium channels (CaV2.2). This effect is dependent not only on incubation time, but also on the dose of KN93 or KN92. Moreover, the effect appears to be independent of endocytosis, exocytosis, and proteasome activity. Washout and return to normal media rescues the L channel currents. Conversely, the structurally unrelated CaMKII inhibitor, AIP, fails to mimic the KN93/KN92 effect on L channel currents. Together, our data suggest that, in addition to inhibiting CaMKII, KN93 also affects CaV1.3 and CaV1.2 calcium channels in a CaMKII-independent manner.
Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy in children.

Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD) is an entity of unknown etiology that has only been reported in patients with impaired kidney function. It has characteristic diagnostic findings by skin biopsy and due to its systemic involvement in some reported cases, the term “nephrogenic systemic fibrosis” has been recently suggested as more appropriate for the nomenclature of this entity. There is no curative treatment currently available and very few cases have been reported in children. We hereby report two cases so as to alert pediatric health care providers about the existence of this disorder.
Splenectomy Alters Distribution and Turnover but not Numbers or Protective Capacity of de novo Generated Memory CD8 T-Cells

The spleen is a highly compartmentalized lymphoid organ that allows for efficient antigen presentation and activation of immune responses. Additionally, the spleen itself functions to remove senescent red blood cells, filter bacteria, and sequester platelets. Splenectomy, commonly performed after blunt force trauma or splenomegaly, has been shown to increase risk of certain bacterial and parasitic infections years after removal of the spleen. Although previous studies report defects in memory B-cells and IgM titers in splenectomized patients, the effect of splenectomy on CD8 T-cell responses and memory CD8 T-cell function remains ill defined. Using TCR-transgenic P14 cells, we demonstrate that homeostatic proliferation and representation of pathogen-specific memory CD8 T-cells in the blood are enhanced in splenectomized compared to sham surgery mice. Surprisingly, despite the enhanced turnover, splx mice displayed no changes in total memory CD8 T-cell numbers nor impaired protection against lethal dose challenge with Listeria monocytogenes. Thus, our data suggest that memory CD8 T-cell maintenance and function remain intact in the absence of the spleen.
On the Problem of Reconstructing Images of Non-Scalar Parameters from Projections. Application to Vector Fields

It is demonstrated that in some cases it is possible to reconstruct images of fields whose local values are not scalars but are instead anisotropic. The approach taken relies upon Fourier analysis of the angular dependence and separation of scalar and non-scalar contributions by symmetry, and is applicable to anisotropies that do not have even symmetry. Although there are only a limited number of cases in which the problem can be analytically solved, there appears to be a variety of applications for which good approximations are available. The proposed algorithm, a hybrid of well known image reconstruction techniques, has been applied to calculated projections of test patterns, local regions of which having been assigned either scalar or vector behavior or both.
Chemical configuration of germanium surfaces in aqueous media

Abstract An essentially electrochemical technique has been employed for measuring changes in surface recombination velocity v δ for an n -type germanium electrode. Displacement of dissolved oxygen from the solution leads to an increase in v δ . During cathodic polarization v its is large, but is small subsequently. The results indicate that v δ varies in a regular way with the surface potential φ δ of the germanium, but that chemisorption of hydrogen results in a decrease in the density of surface recombination centers.
Survival in continuous structured populations models

The extended McKendrick-von Foerster structured population model is employed to derive a nonautonomous ordinary differential equation model of a population. The derivation assumes that the individual life history can be delineated into several physiological stages. We study the persistence of the population when the model is autonomous and base the nonautonomous survival analysis on the autonomous case and a comparison principle. A brief excursion into alternate life history strategies is presented.
Mesodiencephalic and cerebellar influences on optokinetic and vestibular nystagmus

Abstract Electrodes were implanted in the mesodiencephalon and fastigial nuclei of the cerebellum of 14 cats. Concomitant electrical stimulation of the mesodiencephalon during optokinetic (OKN) or vestibular stimulation caused an increase in frequency of the nystagmic response when the stimulus was applied contralateral to the direction of the fast phase of nystagmus (e.g., stimulation on the right side when the eye movement was toward the left); ipsilateral stimulation caused a decrement in frequency. Electrical stimulation of the fastigial nuclei during OKN or vestibular stimulation led to a complete inhibition of the nystagmus (independent of the side stimulated) and a centering of the eyes. Results suggest that the cerebellar roof nuclei may be involved with mediating the responses necessary for inhibition of nystagmus through visual fixation.
Nicaraguans and the Educational Glass Ceiling in Costa Rica: the stranger in our midst

This qualitative case study focused on the socio-cultural and educational experiences of undocumented (i.e. in the sense that they do not have the necessary documents to be in the country legally) Nicaraguan students in rural K-12 schools in Costa Rica. In this longitudinal study, a number of Nicaraguan students and their parents were interviewed during two different time periods over 11 years. The study was contextualized in the relatively new phenomenon of South-South immigration and revealed that immigrants maintained close connections with the communities they left and formed networks that supported new arrivals in Costa Rica. Despite blatant and overt discrimination, the students made significant educational and economic gains, which have moved them up the economic and social ladder. Eventually Nicaraguans hit a glass ceiling that limited their upward mobility and forced them to find alternative paths to achieve their goals.
Effects of Atrial Pacing on Left Ventricular Performance in Patients with Heart Disease

Hemodynamic data and systolic time intervals were obtained at resting heart rate and during atrial pacing in 10 patients with heart disease, eight with left ventricular dysfunction, and two with mitral stenosis. The mean increase in heart rate was 44 beats/min. During atrial pacing there was no significant alteration in cardiac output, minute work, left atrial or pulmonary wedge mean pressure, or duration of left ventricular pre-ejection period. When the pressure events which determine the duration of the isovolumic time and the left ventricular pre-ejection period were examined, aortic diastolic pressure rose while left ventricular end-diastolic pressure fell. The rate of pressure rise (dp/dt) determined from high-fidelity left ventricular pressure pulses in three patients increased out of proportion to the increased pressure developed throughout isovolumic contraction. The augmentation in dp/dt from lower end-diastolic pressure indicates improved mechanical performance of the left ventricle, which is not necessarily translated into hemodynamic improvement.
Role of lysosomal acid ceramidase in the metabolism of ceramide in human skin fibroblasts.

Abstract A 2.8-fold accumulation of ceramide was demonstrated in cultured skin ftbroblasts from a patient with Farber's disease, an inborn error of metabolism in which acid ceramidase activity is deficient. To investigate the role of acid ceramidase in the metabolism of ceramide in fibroblasts, we have investigated the lysosomal degradation of ceramide that was taken up by fibroblasts from an exogenous lipid suspension. Fluorescent 4-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazole-7-aminododecanoyl-sphingosine (NBD-ceramide) from an exogenous ceramide suspension was incorporated into the intracellular structures of fibroblasts at 37 °C. Study of the cellular uptake of exogenous [3H]oleylsphingosine showed that the rate of ceramide accumulation was nearly identical in Farber's disease and normal fibroblasts. The deficiency of acid ceramidase in Farber's fibroblasts resulted in the decrease of cellular degradation and uptake of ceramide and the increase of retention time of ceramide in these diseased cells. Studies of subcellular fractionation of these fibroblasts showed that the accumulated ceramide was located in the lysosomal fraction. As a result, the density of the lysosomal fraction of Farber's fibroblasts was found to be less than that of controls. These results suggest the defect of cellular metabolism in this inherited disease is located within the lysosome.
Two-dimensional solitons in irregular lattice systems

We compute and study localized nonlinear modes (solitons) in the semi-infinite gap of the focusing two-dimensional nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) equation with various irregular lattice-type potentials. The potentials are characterized by large variations from periodicity, such as vacancy defects, edge dislocations, and a quasicrystal structure. We use a spectral fixed-point computational scheme to obtain the solitons. The eigenvalue dependence of the soliton power indicates parameter regions of self-focusing instability; we compare these results with direct numerical simulations of the NLS equation. We show that in the general case, solitons on local lattice maximums collapse. Furthermore, we show that the Nth-order quasicrystal solitons approach Bessel solitons in the large-N limit.
Polymorphism of mefloquine hydrochloride

Abstract The polymorphic and pseudopolymorphic forms of mefloquine hydrochloride have been characterized by use of X-ray powder diffractometry, thermal analysis, infrared spectral analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and solubility measurements. It was determined that mefloquine hydrochloride can crystallize in at least eight forms, anhydrous forms (A, B′, E and M), solvate forms (B and I) and hydrate forms (C and D). The acetone solvate (form B) and isopropanol solvate (form I) transform into forms B ' and M, respectively, when they are heated on a hot stage. Form E, which was recrystallized from ethanol, showed gradual weight loss on heating, and a small endotherm in the DSC thennogram due to desolvation. However, the X-ray powder diffraction pattern of form E after removal of virtually all the ethanol, showed almost the same pattern. This suggests that ethanol is contained in channels within the crystal lattice of form E. An X-ray powder diffraction study showed that the crystal forms of mefloquine hydrochloride in lots of commercial tablets obtained from two sources were forms E and C. When the tablets were stored at 60°C, 75% R.H., form E was transformed into form D, but form C did not undergo a significant change. A study of the effect of various excipients on the solid-state crystal transformation revealed that microcrystalline cellulose promotes the transformation from form E into form D. However, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, β-cyclodextrin, crospovidone and hydrous lactose have no effect on the crystal transformation.
Spatial queries with qualitative locations in spatial information systems

Abstract We discuss locations as defined by their qualitative spatial relations to other features, dubbed qualitative locations (QL). We further propose a mechanism to handle queries with qualitative locations in geospatial information systems. For the realization of the mechanism for QL-based queries, we propose a conceptual framework that takes advantage of models of qualitative spatial reasoning to bridge the gap between conventional metric spatial information systems and the general public’s common-sense query of spatial relations in natural language.
Allergen Uptake, Activation, and IL-23 Production by Pulmonary Myeloid DCs Drives Airway Hyperresponsiveness in Asthma-Susceptible Mice

Maladaptive, Th2-polarized inflammatory responses are integral to the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. As regulators of T cell activation, dendritic cells (DCs) are important mediators of allergic asthma, yet the precise signals which render endogenous DCs “pro-asthmatic”, and the extent to which these signals are regulated by the pulmonary environment and host genetics, remains unclear. Comparative phenotypic and functional analysis of pulmonary DC populations in mice susceptible (A/J), or resistant (C3H) to experimental asthma, revealed that susceptibility to airway hyperresponsiveness is associated with preferential myeloid DC (mDC) allergen uptake, and production of Th17-skewing cytokines (IL-6, IL-23), whereas resistance is associated with increased allergen uptake by plasmacytoid DCs. Surprisingly, adoptive transfer of syngeneic HDM-pulsed bone marrow derived mDCs (BMDCs) to the lungs of C3H mice markedly enhanced lung IL-17A production, and rendered them susceptible to allergen-driven airway hyperresponsiveness. Characterization of these BMDCs revealed levels of antigen uptake, and Th17 promoting cytokine production similar to that observed in pulmonary mDCs from susceptible A/J mice. Collectively these data demonstrate that the lung environment present in asthma-resistant mice promotes robust pDC allergen uptake, activation, and limits Th17-skewing cytokine production responsible for driving pathologic T cell responses central to the development of allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness.
Listening to another sense: somatosensory integration in the auditory system

Conventionally, sensory systems are viewed as separate entities, each with its own physiological process serving a different purpose. However, many functions require integrative inputs from multiple sensory systems and sensory intersection and convergence occur throughout the central nervous system. The neural processes for hearing perception undergo significant modulation by the two other major sensory systems, vision and somatosensation. This synthesis occurs at every level of the ascending auditory pathway: the cochlear nucleus, inferior colliculus, medial geniculate body and the auditory cortex. In this review, we explore the process of multisensory integration from (1) anatomical (inputs and connections), (2) physiological (cellular responses), (3) functional and (4) pathological aspects. We focus on the convergence between auditory and somatosensory inputs in each ascending auditory station. This review highlights the intricacy of sensory processing and offers a multisensory perspective regarding the understanding of sensory disorders.
International cattle ID and traceability: Competitive implications for the US

Abstract Global standards for animal identification and traceability are evolving rapidly. Major world animal health, trade, and food safety organizations have formally recognized the importance of, and actively promoted, animal identification and traceability system development. Advanced animal traceability systems have been deployed by major beef exporters and are increasingly being adopted by important beef importing countries. This study summarizes and compares animal identification systems across major export and import countries. Results reveal that the United States lags behind both major export and import countries in development and adoption of cattle identification and tracing systems. As such, the United States has placed itself in a vulnerable position relative to competing export countries with respect to demonstrated animal traceability. This status could adversely affect market access in the future for US beef exports.
Recent French, Belgian and Italian work in the cognitive science of animals: Dominique Lestel, Vinciane Despret, Roberto Marchesini and Giorgio Celli

This paper is a review of the work of four scholars who have made substantial new developments in our understanding of animal mind and animal–human interactions. Dominique Lestel indicates that culture is rooted in the animal realm and draws upon ethology and ethnography to study animal worlds. Vinciane Despret pays heed to complex animal–human sociality and combines critical psychology and ethology to take account of animal mind. Roberto Marchesini argues that animal influence on humans is widespread and is foundational to culture; he uses anthropology and ethology to expand the field of animal–human interactions. Giorgio Celli holds that ethology permeates the spaces of everyday life and that animals such as cats demonstrate complex problem-solving and social behavior.
Effect of symmetrical boundary conditions on the vibration of thick hollow cylinders

Abstract A finite element for axisymmetric elasticity is formulated directly in cylindrical coordinates. The element is used to study the vibration of hollow, isotropic finite length cylinders. The ratio of the inside radius to the outside radius is assumed as 0.2, 0.5 and 0.9 for a given cylinder length. Frequencies are computed for free–free end boundary conditions that can be compared with the existing literature. Additionally, fixed–fixed boundary conditions are studied. Five different configurations for simple supported boundary conditions are analyzed and compared. Numerical results are given in tabular form and some fundamental mode shapes are compared graphically.
Kaon interferometry at RHIC from the AMPT model

The two-kaon interferometry at RHIC is studied in a multi-phase transport model. Similar to the pion case, we find strong spacetime correlation at freeze-out for the kaon emission source, which results in a large positive Rout–t term and tends to reduce the Rout/Rside ratio. Unlike in the pion case, the source radii for kaons determined from the emission function are close to the radius parameters extracted from a Gaussian fit to the correlation function.
Implicit and explicit forgetting: When is gist remembered?

Recognition (YES/NO) and stem completion (cued: complete with a word from the list; and uncued: complete with the first word that comes to mind) were tested following either semantic or non-semantic processing of a categorized input list. Item/instance information was tested by contrasting target items from the input list with new items that were categorically related to them; gist/categorical information was tested by comparing target items semantically related to the input items with unrelated new items. For both recognition and stem completion, regardless of initial processing condition, item information decayed rapidly over a period of one week. Gist information was maintained over the same period when initial processing was semantic but only in the cued condition for completion. These results are discussed in terms of dual process theory, which postulates activation/integration of a representation as primarily relevant to implicit item information and elaboration of a representation as mainly relevan...
Formation and Bonding of Alane Clusters on Al(111) Surfaces Studied by Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy and Theoretical Modeling

Alanes are believed to be the mass transport intermediate in many hydrogen storage reactions and thus important for understanding rehydrogenation kinetics for alanates and AlH3. Combining density functional theory (DFT) and surface infrared (IR) spectroscopy, we provide atomistic details about the formation of alanes on the Al(111) surface, a model environment for the rehydrogenation reactions. At low coverage, DFT predicts a 2-fold bridge site adsorption for atomic hydrogen at 1150 cm−1, which is too weak to be detected by IR but was previously observed in electron energy loss spectroscopy. At higher coverage, steps are the most favorable adsorption sites for atomic H adsorption, and it is likely that the AlH3 molecules form (initially strongly bound to steps) at saturation. With increasing exposures AlH3 is extracted from the step edge and becomes highly mobile on the terraces in a weakly bound state, accounting for step etching observed in previous STM studies. The mobility of these weakly bound AlH3 m...
Incorporation of [1-14C]linoleic acid into central nervous system of the adult cat after intracisternal administration.

Summary The incorporation of [1-14C]linoleic acid into the CNS of the adult cat was studied after intracisternal administration of the fatty acid. About 23% of the isotope was found in the CNS after 24 h compared to the amount incorporated 14 days after the injection. About 1% of the isotope injected was taken up by the CNS. Most of the radioactivity was localized in the phosphoglyceride fraction with both choline glycerophosphatides and ethanolamine glycerophosphatides equally labeled. Subcellular fractionation of the cervical cord showed that the myelin and the ‘enriched’ synaptic membrane fraction incorporated the major activity in that tissue. Fatty acid analysis of the phosphoglyceride fraction indicated that about 35% of the radioactivity was in linoleic acid per se and that the adult central nervous tissue can apparently carry out de novo fatty acid synthesis, acyl transferase, elongation, saturation, desaturation and fatty acid synthesis to a limited extent under the experimental conditions. The implication of these findings to myelin metabolism are discussed. A major phosphoglyceride fatty acid in adult cat CNS was found to be 20: 1.
The use of bronchial blockers for providing one-lung ventilation.

BSOLUTE INDICATIONS FOR providing one-lung ventilation (OLV) include the isolation of one lung to avoid the contamination of a contralateral lung from either blood or infectious material or to provide positive-pressure ventilation to one lung in the presence of either a bulla or bronchopleural fistula in the other lung. Additional indications for OLV are to facilitate surgery in cases such as video-assisted thoracoscopy (VAT), lung resections, esophageal surgery, thoracic spine surgery, and open repair of the descending thoracic aorta. Surgeries using VAT, in particular, require OLV because the surgeon has limited ability to otherwise retract and operate on the lung. These indications are summarized in Table 1.
Preliminary crystallographic data for beta-lytic protease.

Beta-lytic protease from Myxobacter 495 was crystallized by dialysis with 1 m-sodium chloride and 0.1 m-sodium citrate (pH 5.95). The crystals were rhombic prisms with space group P212121 and unit cell parameters a = 54.1, b = 99.6 and c = 53.9 A. Considerations of the cell volume and molecular weight indicate two molecules of beta-lytic protease in the asymmetric unit.
Pharmacodynamic Activity and Efficacy of Linezolid in a Rat Model of Pneumococcal Pneumonia

Linezolid is a new oxazolidinone antibiotic with potent activity against gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae. The pharmacodynamic activity and in vivo efficacy of linezolid were compared to those of ceftriaxone in an immunocompetent rat model of pneumococcal pneumonia. Rats infected intratracheally with 8 x 10(7) CFU of a penicillin-sensitive (MIC, 0.032 microg/ml) strain of S. pneumoniae were treated for 5 days beginning 18 h postinfection. Groups of rats were sham treated with oral phosphate-buffered saline or received oral liquid linezolid at 25 or 50 mg/kg of body weight twice a day (b.i.d.) or subcutaneous ceftriaxone at 100 mg/kg once daily. Mortality was monitored for 10 days postinfection; blood culturing was performed on day 1 (pretreatment) and on days 3, 5, and 10 postinfection for the determination of bacteremia. Serum also was collected for the determination of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters at 30 min and at 3, 5, and 12 h (linezolid) or 3, 5, and 24 h (ceftriaxone) postdose. The cumulative mortality rates were 100% for the sham-treated group, 58.3% for the low-dose linezolid group, 8.3% for the high-dose linezolid group, and 0% for the ceftriaxone group. Rats in each of the antibiotic treatment groups had significantly fewer bacteria (P 39% for the percentage of time in the experimental dosing interval during which the linezolid concentration exceeded the MIC and a value of >147 for the ratio of the area under the serum concentration-time curve to the MIC.
Thermal reaction norms for growth vary among cohorts of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus)

While much effort has been directed at deter- mining the spatial scales of adaptation in thermal reaction norms for growth, it is widely assumed that these reaction norms have high temporal stability. Water temperatures in the Gulf of Alaska in 2007 were the coldest on record since the mid-1970s and we present evidence that the thermal reaction norm for growth of age-0 Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) in this cohort differed significantly from two adjacent cohorts. In addition to exhibiting higher growth potential at low temperatures, the 2007 cohort had a higher mean vertebral count, consistent with the wide- spread thermal effect known as ''Jordan's Rule.'' Variation among cohorts in these physiological and morphological traits suggests a persistent response to environmental history (epigenetic effect). Temperature-induced pheno- typic plasticity in the reaction norm for growth has sig- nificant implications for using growth rates to evaluate habitat quality and illustrates the complex responses of fishes to climate variability.
The teacher's role in promoting collaborative dialogue in the classroom.

Background Research on student-led small-group learning in schools going back nearly four decades has documented many types of student participation that promote learning. Less is known about how the teacher can foster effective groupwork behaviours. Aims This paper reviews research that explores the role of the teacher in promoting learning in small groups. The focus is on how students can learn from their peers during small-group work, how teachers can prepare students for collaborative group work, and the role of teacher discourse and classroom norms in small-group dialogue. Method Studies selected for review focused on student-led small-group contexts for learning in which students were expected to collaborate, reported data from systematic observations of group work, and linked observational data to teacher practices and student learning outcomes. Results and conclusions This review uncovered multiple dimensions of the teacher's role in fostering beneficial group dialogue, including preparing students for collaborative work, forming groups, structuring the group-work task, and influencing student interaction through teachers' discourse with small groups and with the class. Common threads through the research are the importance of students explaining their thinking, and teacher strategies and practices that may promote student elaboration of ideas.
Post-myocardial infarction smoking cessation counseling: Associations with immediate and late mortality in older Medicare patients

Purpose To assess the difference in immediate (30 and 60 days after admission) and late (2-year) mortality between those who received inpatient post-myocardial infarction smoking cessation counseling and those who did not receive counseling. Methods We conducted an observational study of a national random sample of inpatients from 2971 U.S. acute care hospitals participating in the Cooperative Cardiovascular Project in 1994–95. Medicare beneficiaries who were current smokers over age 65, admitted with a documented acute myocardial infarction, and who were discharged to home were included (n=16743). Our main outcome measures were early (30-, 60-day) and late (1-, 2-year) mortality. Results Smoking cessation counseling was documented during their index hospitalization for 41% of patients. Compared with those not counseled, those who received inpatient counseling had lower 30-day (2.0% vs. 3.0%), 60-day (3.7% vs. 5.6%), and 2-year mortality (25.0% vs. 30%) (logrank P ≪0.0001). After adjustment for demographic characteristics, comorbid conditions, APACHE score, and receipt of treatments including aspirin, reperfusion, beta-blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, those receiving counseling were less likely to die within 1 year, but the effect was lost between 1 and 2 years [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.99 (0.91–1.10)]. The greatest reduction in relative hazard (19%) was seen within 30 days [HR = 0.81 (95% confidence interval 0.65–0.99)]. Conclusion Immediate and long-term mortality rates were lower among those receiving inpatient smoking cessation counseling.
IRISH TINKERS: AN ITINERANT POPULATION IN TRANSITION

ABSTRACT Irish Tinkers are an itinerant or “gypsy'’population. They form a distinctive subculture within Irish society. Over the past three decades their traditional economic and social niche in rural Ireland has been eroded by modernization and industrialization. In response, they have migrated cityward. Economic adaptation to the urban milieu has demanded development of new trades and intensification of former supplemental pursuits. It also has initiated the transition from nomadism to sedentarization. Nearly half the Tinker population have been removed from the road and settled in tigins or standard housing. Acculturation is progressing, but social assimilation has been impeded by prejudicial attitudes exhibited by the sedentary community.
Mediating Discrimination: Resisting Oppression Among African-American Muslim Women

Using qualitative data from interviews with twenty African-American Muslim women, this analysis contrasts the understanding of experiencing discrimination gained from Feagin and Sikes' Living with Racism (1994) with that gained from Patricia Hill Collins' Black Feminist Thought (1991). I demonstrate Collins' theory of a matrix of domination and the both/and conceptual stance through examining these respondents' experiences with the intersection of race, gender, and religious discrimination. Furthermore, I argue that these women are able to mediate, or resist the oppression of, discrimination through the self-definition and determination, provided by a humanist vision of themselves and others. Finally, the respondents' membership in the Muslim community provides them with a safe social space to transform their life and their consciousness. Through these cultural and social structural means, this group of respondents are able to socially construct a reality that allows them to mediate the discrimination they experience.
Targeting the “Cytokine Storm” for Therapeutic Benefit

ABSTRACT Inflammation is the body9s first line of defense against infection or injury, responding to challenges by activating innate and adaptive responses. Microbes have evolved a diverse range of strategies to avoid triggering inflammatory responses. However, some pathogens, such as the influenza virus and the Gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis, do trigger life-threatening “cytokine storms” in the host which can result in significant pathology and ultimately death. For these diseases, it has been proposed that downregulating inflammatory immune responses may improve outcome. We review some of the current candidates for treatment of cytokine storms which may prove useful in the clinic in the future and compare them to more traditional therapeutic candidates that target the pathogen rather than the host response.