cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polarity and piezoelectric response of solution grown zinc oxide nanocrystals on silver

The crystal orientation and piezoelectric properties of solution grown ZnO nanorods on Ag films were measured by quantitative piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM). The polarity of the rods, important for many device applications, was determined to be oriented [0001] from the substrates. This indicates that the prevalence of the [0001] oriented crystals is dominated by the fastest growing direction in solution. The average value of the d33 piezoelectric coefficient was measured to be 4.41pm∕V, with a standard deviation of 1.73pm∕V among the 198 individual rods. For calibration and comparison, PFM measurements were also performed on single crystals of x-cut quartz, z-cut periodically poled and single domain LiNbO3, and z-cut ZnO. Repeated measurements on individual rods establish that the run-to-run variation of a single rod is similar to that of single crystal measurements on quartz and LiNbO3. Hence, the observed rod-to-rod variation is not due to measurement uncertainty. Potential origins of this rod-to-...
The Information Medium

The paper offers the foundations of the theory of information media. Information media are dynamical systems with additional macrostructure of information-carrying states and information-preserving transformations. The paper also defines the notion of information media network as a system of information media connected by information transformations. It is demonstrated that many standard examples of information-containing and processing systems are captured by the general notion of information medium. The paper uses the theory (and informal discussion) of information media to motivate a structural approach to the information in media. The idea is that the notion of information transformation should be regarded as more primitive than the notion of informational state. Thus in information systems, especially in the context of information technology, information is secondary while information transformation is primary.
The loop problem in proteins: A monte carlo simulated annealing approach

A Monte Carlo simulated annealing (MCSA) algorithm was used to generate the conformations of local regions in bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (BPTI) starting from random initial conformations. In the approach explored, only the conformation of the segment is computed; the rest of the protein is fixed in the known native conformation. Rather than follow a single simulation exhaustively, computer time is better used by performing multiple independent MCSA simulations in which different starting temperatures are employed and the number of conformations sampled is varied. The best computed conformation is chosen on the basis of lowest total energy and refined further. The total energy used in the annealing is the sum of the intrasegment energy, the interaction energy of the segment with the local surrounding region, and a distance constraint to generate a smooth connection of the initially randomized segment with the rest of the protein. The rms deviations between the main-chain conformations of the computed segments in BPTI and those of the native x-ray structure are 0.94 A for a 5-residue alpha-helical segment, 1.11 A for a 5-residue beta-strand segment, and 1.03, 1.61, and 1.87 A for 5-, 7-, and 9-residue loop segments. Side-chain deviations are comparable to the main-chain deviations for those side chains that interact strongly with the fixed part of the protein. A detailed view of the deviations at an atom-resolved level is obtained by comparing the predicted segments with their known conformations in the crystal structure of BPTI. These results emphasize the value of predetermined fixed structure against which the computed segment can nest.
Spin susceptibility of tetrathiafulvalene tetracyanoquinodimethane, TTF-TCNQ, in the semiconducting regime: Comparison with conductivity

New spin-susceptibility data, determined by electron-spin resonance on single crystals, are reported below the 53-K metal-semiconductor transition in tetrathiafulvalene-tetracyanoquinodimethane, TTF-TCNQ. The measured susceptibility is decomposed into the TTF and TCNQ contributions. Each of these contributions behave differently through the 38- and 53-K phase transitions, allowing us to determine the respective roles of the two stacks in these transitions. We conclude that the TCNQ stack drives the transition at 53 K and that the TTF stack susceptibility is most affected by the 38-K transition. In addition, the temperature dependence of the TTF spin susceptibility is compared to that of the dc conductivity on samples from the same batch. We find that for $Tl38$ K their activation energies are quite different, \ensuremath{\sim} 100-125 K for the susceptibility and \ensuremath{\sim} 220 K for the conductivity, which is believed to be primarily on the TTF stack. Three explanations are offered to account for this difference in activation energies: (a) intramolecular Coulomb energies are significant for the TTF stack, (b) the mobility of electrons on the TTF stack is activated, and (c) existence of microdomains and amplitude solitons.
Agricultural policy in Madagascar: A seasonal multi-market model

Abstract The purpose of this note is to illustrate how a generic multi-market model can be adapted to the circumstances of a particular developing country to assess the impact of alternative agricultural policies on the well being of households. We describe the main features and results of a multi-market model for Madagascar that focuses on income generating activities in an agricultural sector that is characterized by seasonal variability. We find evidence that investments in rural infrastructure and commercial food storage have both direct and indirect benefits on poor households.
Active-site alkylation destabilizes human O6-alkylguanine DNA alkyltransferase.

O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase (AGT) repairs pro-mutagenic O6-alkylguanine and O4-alkylthymine lesions in DNA. The alkylated form of the protein is not reactivated; instead, it is rapidly ubiquitinated and degraded. Here, we show that alkylation destabilizes the native fold of the protein by 0.5–1.2 kcal/mole and the DNA-binding function by 0.8–1.4 kcal/mole. On this basis, we propose that destabilization of the native conformational ensemble acts as a signal for ubiquitination.
Blocking transcription of the human rhodopsin gene by triplex-mediated DNA photocrosslinking

To explore the ability of triplex-forming oligodeoxyribonucleotides (TFOs) to inhibit genes responsible for dominant genetic disorders, we used two TFOs to block expression of the human rhodopsin gene, which encodes a G protein-coupled receptor involved in the blinding disorder autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa. Psoralen-modified TFOs and UVA irradiation were used to form photoadducts at two target sites in a plasmid expressing a rhodopsin-EGFP fusion, which was then transfected into HT1080 cells. Each TFO reduced rhodopsin-GFP expression by 70-80%, whereas treatment with both reduced expression by 90%. Expression levels of control genes on either the same plasmid or one co-transfected were not affected by the treatment. Mutations at one TFO target eliminated its effect on transcription, without diminishing inhibition by the other TFO. Northern blots indicated that TFO-directed psoralen photoadducts blocked progression of RNA polymerase, resulting in truncated transcripts. Inhibition of gene expression was not relieved over a 72 h period, suggesting that TFO-induced psoralen lesions are not repaired on this time scale. Irradiation of cells after transfection with plasmid and psoralen-TFOs produced photoadducts inside the cells and also inhibited expression of rhodopsin-EGFP. We conclude that directing DNA damage with psoralen-TFOs is an efficient and specific means for blocking transcription from the human rhodopsin gene.
Effect of Metal Ions on the Quantitative Determination of Hydroxamic Acids

The hydrolysis of hydroxamic acids to hydroxylamine is an important first step in the quantitative analysis of hydroxamate siderophores. The rate of this hydrolysis can be increased by the addition of ferric iron and the metals Mn(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Cd(II), Cr(III), and Al(III). The maximum hydrolysis rate is obtained at iron to desferal ratios greater than 40:1. Using these conditions, >75% hydrolysis of the siderophores desferal, rhodotorulic acid, and schizokinen was obtained in 2 h at temperatures as low as 70 °C. These low temperatures make possible the direct analysis of hydroxamates in culture media containing high concentrations of carbohydrates. An example of this technique showing increased siderophore formation in low-iron cultures of Bacillus megaterium upon exposure to aluminum is presented.
Ministry with Adolescents: Tending Boundaries, Telling Truths

This essay explores anxieties, risks, and responsibilities of ministers and other spiritual leaders who seek honest and healing dialogue about sex and sexuality with young people in their care. Building on a delicate scene from Laurie Halse Anderson’s young adult novel Speak, it draws from psychotherapeutic works of Ron Taffel and David Schnarch, and from theological writings of Sebastian Moore and Mark D. Jordan, to press the importance of safe, direct, non-shaming pastoral conversations around sensitive adolescent sexual concerns.
The Role of Eszopiclone in the Treatment of Insomnia

Insomnia is a common and underdiagnosed condition that can result in significant economic and clinical consequences. Despite numerous behavioral and pharmacotherapeutic treatment options available for insomnia, few receive adequate treatment, and sleep maintenance (staying asleep) remains a significant problem. To date, available sedative-hypnotic agents have limitations that have lead to inadequate treatment of insomnia. This review provides an overview of eszopiclone and its role in the treatment of insomnia. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts) were searched for applicable primary literature and review articles. Mechanisms of action at the gammaamino butyric acid (GABA) receptor sites and pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic characteristics are presented. Eszopiclone, a nonbenzodiazepine S-enantiomer of racemic zopiclone, is highlighted as the first sedative-hypnotic agent to be approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of sleep onset latency and sleep maintenance insomnia with no short-term restrictions. Recently, the European Medicines Agency recommended marketing authorization of eszopiclone. Eszopiclone has been shown to be an efficacious and cost-effective option for the treatment of transient and chronic insomnia in adults.
12.5 - Laser-interferometer system for the determination of the acceleration of gravity

A system is described for determining the acceleration of gravity using a stablized He-Ne laser as the light source in a Michelson-type interferometer which incorporates a freely falling corner reflector as one of its mirrors. The method effectively utilizes the most precise standards presently available for the measurement of length and time and is capable of an accuracy of better than 5 parts in 108.
Using Harry Potter to Introduce Students to DNA Fingerprinting & Forensic Science

ABSTRACT This lesson uses characters from the Harry Potter series of novels as a “hook” to stimulate students' interest in introductory forensic science. Students are guided through RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) analysis using inexpensive materials and asked to interpret data from a mock crime scene. Importantly, the lesson provides an opportunity to discuss limitations of using DNA fingerprinting for forensic purposes and addresses a common misconception that the sophisticated science involved in crime-scene analysis is infallible.
SU-E-T-292: Sensitivity of Fractionated Lung IMPT Treatments to Setup Uncertainties and Motion Effects

Purpose: Evaluate the sensitivity of intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) lung treatments to systematic and random setup uncertainties combined with motion effects. Methods: Treatment plans with single-field homogeneity restricted to ±20% (IMPT-20%) were compared to plans with no restriction (IMPT-full). 4D Monte Carlo simulations were performed for 10 lung patients using the patient CT geometry with either ±5mm systematic or random setup uncertainties applied over a 35 × 2.5Gy(RBE) fractionated treatment course. Intra-fraction, inter-field and inter-fraction motions were investigated. 50 fractionated treatments with systematic or random setup uncertainties applied to each fraction were generated for both IMPT delivery methods and three energy-dependent spot sizes (big spots - BS σ=18-9mm, intermediate spots - IS σ=11-5mm, small spots - SS σ=4-2mm). These results were compared to a Monte Carlo recalculation of the original treatment plan, with results presented as the difference in EUD (ΔEUD), V95 (ΔV95) and target homogeneity (ΔD1–D99) between the 4D simulations and the Monte Carlo calculation on the planning CT. Results: The standard deviations in the ΔEUD were 1.95±0.47(BS), 1.85±0.66(IS) and 1.31±0.35(SS) times higher in IMPT-full compared to IMPT-20% when ±5mm systematic setup uncertainties were applied. The ΔV95 variations were also 1.53±0.26(BS), 1.60±0.50(IS) and 1.38±0.38(SS) times higher for IMPT-full. For random setup uncertainties, the standard deviations of the ΔEUD from 50 simulated fractionated treatments were 1.94±0.90(BS), 2.13±1.08(IS) and 1.45±0.57(SS) times higher in IMPTfull compared to IMPT-20%. For all spot sizes considered, the ΔD1-D99 coincided within the uncertainty limits for the two IMPT delivery methods, with the mean value always higher for IMPT-full. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the IMPT-full and IMPT-20% dose distributions for the majority of scenarios studied. Conclusion: Lung IMPT-full treatments are more sensitive to both systematic and random setup uncertainties compared to IMPT-20%. This work was supported by the NIH R01 CA111590.
Formulation of stable coal-methanol suspensions using coal liquids

ABSTRACT Data from subsidence tests with coal–methanol and coal–coal 1iquid–methanol slurries are presented to suggest that coal liquids may serve to enhance the storage stability of coal–methanol slurry fuels. A two parameter system–the relative sediment height and the terminal sediment volume was used to characterize the compactness of coal sediments. The stability of coal–coal 1iquid–methanol slurries was found to depend upon the coal liquid content of the slurries. Addition of coal liquid to coal–methanol slurries caused coal particles to flocculate. These flocs form a loose, easily redispersed sediment bed which is very desirable from a practical point of view.
The Aries Program with emphasis on the International Magnetospherics Studies /IMS/-Porcupine Project

This paper will discuss the present state of the development of the Aries Sounding Rocket System with particular emphasis on the configuration and subsystems required to support the IMS Program. A brief history of the development program will be presented. The results of the first five flights, three successes and two failures, will be presented and the observed performance compared to theoretical performance.
Cation Exchange in Kaolinite-Iron Oxide Systems

Kaolinite, to which iron oxides had been added by heating with FeCl3 solution, was studied with regard to its cation exchange capacity. It was observed that net cations held (cations less anions) varied directly with pH. Cations and anions are removed in equivalent amounts when the clays are washed with water. Removal of exchangeable cations proceeds as the last anions are removed. As a consequence, the negative sites may become saturated with non-exchangeable hydroxy-aluminum ions. To obtain the true CEC of a kaolinite-iron oxide system, it is necessary to estimate the amount of nonexchangeable hydroxy-aluminum by conductometric titration.
Electronic spectrum of the 2877 Å band of styrene: Rotational structure and transition moment

Abstract Rotational fine structure in the 0-0 band of the 2877 A transition of styrene is reported and analyzed by use of computer simulation techniques. The analysis allows determination of the changes in rotational constants upon excitation (ΔA = −0.006149 cm−1, ΔB = −0.000624 cm−1, ΔC = −0.000721 cm−1) and is consistent with a planar configuration in the excited state. The band is shown to be A-type, which confirms the π ∗ ← π nature of the electronic transition. The origin of the band was determined to be 34758.79 ± 0.05 cm−1.
Encephalopathy with myoclonic jerks resulting from ceftazidime therapy: an under-recognized potential side-effect when treating febrile neutropenia.

Ceftazidime and cefepime are widely used as empirical monotherapy for patients with febrile neutropenia. Although both have good safety profiles, their neurologic toxicity is often overlooked [1]. ...
Monte Carlo simulation of the response of NaI scintillator to medium energy neutrons

Abstract A layered NaI scintillation detector (total thickness = 30.6 cm) was exposed to tagged neutrons at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility. The neutrons were approximately monoenergetic at ten energies in the range 36–709 MeV. The energy loss of the neutrons in the detector was subsequently simulated using a Monte Carlo program, which incorporated the HETC, EGS, and MORSE computer codes. The agreement between the experiment and the simulation for the detection efficiency was within 35%. A comparison of the measured and calculated energy-loss spectra showed differences generally within 50%. Details of the detector geometry, the Monte Carlo simulation, and the comparison of the data and the simulation are presented.
Particle production at high gluon density: from ep to AA

Abstract We review the physics of gluon saturation and some of its phenomenological applications.
Qualitative Evidence for Lifted Backbond Degeneracy in the Bonding of Edge-Adsorbed NO on Pd/Al2O3

Abstract Thermal activation of an NO adsorbate state on Pd/Al2O3 is reported. Previously assigned to atop and step sites, these new data allow for its assignment to an edge-bound state displaying lifted backbond degeneracy. As was concluded for an analogous CO state, this NO state arises when electron-deficient edge atoms bond strongly to adsorbed NO molecules to minimize edge metal atom interaction with the edge destabilizing band structure. Published data is reconsidered in the context of this new NO surface-bonding mode.
Open quiz solution: Case report 806

Monostotic Paget's disease of bone is an uncommon disease, reported in the hand in only a few instances. We have described an additional case involving a metacarpal bone in a 43-year-old man. We believe this disease should be considered in the radiological differential diagnosis of lytic expansile, subchondral lesions of the hand.
A Possible Role of Hydroxyproline-Containing Proteins in the Cessation of Cell Elongation

Hydroxyproline-containing proteins increase markedly in the cell walls of the Alaska pea epicotyl during the transition of rapidly elongating tissue into non-elongating, mature tissue. The increase in these proteins may be a factor in the cessation of cell elongation.
Protein Kinase/Phosphatase Function Correlates with Gliding Motility in Mycoplasma pneumoniae

Mycoplasma pneumoniae exhibits a novel form of gliding motility that is mediated by the terminal organelle, a differentiated polar structure. Given that genes known to be involved in gliding in other organisms are absent in M. pneumoniae, random transposon mutagenesis was employed to generate mutants with gliding-deficient phenotypes. Transposon insertions in the only annotated Ser/Thr protein kinase gene (prkC; MPN248) and its cognate phosphatase gene (prpC; MPN247) in M. pneumoniae resulted in significant and contrasting effects on gliding frequencies. prkC mutant cells glided at approximately half the frequency of wild-type cells, while prpC mutant cells glided more than twice as frequently as wild-type cells. Phosphoprotein staining confirmed the association between phosphorylation of the cytoskeletal proteins HMW1 and HMW2 and membrane protein P1 and the gliding phenotype. When the prpC mutant was complemented by transposon delivery of a wild-type copy of the prpC allele, gliding frequencies and phosphorylation levels returned to the wild-type standard. Surprisingly, delivery of the recombinant wild-type prkC allele dramatically increased gliding frequency to a level approximately 3-fold greater than that of wild-type in the prkC mutant. Collectively, these data suggest that PrkC and PrpC work in opposition in M. pneumoniae to influence gliding frequency.
INTERACTION BETWEEN EFFORT AND PARTIAL REINFORCEMENT IN FREE OPERANT RESPONSE OF RATS AND FISH

Rats and fish were trained to give a free operant response under partial versus consistent reinforcement and high versus low effort. Resistance to extinction was then measured in terms of number of responses to criterion (R), time to criterion (T), and rate to criterion (R/T). Effort failed to affect any of these measures in either species. In rats partial reinforcement produced greater resistance to extinction than consistent reinforcement on R and T, but not on R/T, whereas partially reinforced fish failed to differ from those consistently reinforced on R and T bur exceeded the consistently reinforced fish on R/T. The R and T measures were correlated in both groups of fish but only in the consistently reinforced rats. Partially reinforced fish were less variable than consistently reinforced fish on the T measure. It is suggested that the principal effect of partial reinforcement in rats is on mean time to extinction, but the effect in fish is on variability of time to extinction.
Curriculum Evaluation--Practical Approaches to Dealing with the Pitfalls.

Curriculum evaluation can hold fewer pitfalls for those doing the evaluation if certain issues are recognized and minimized. This writer looks at 14 such issues.
The Role of Bystander Perceptions and School Climate in Influencing Victims' Responses to Bullying: To Retaliate or Seek Support?

In order to reduce aggressive responses to bullying, schools nationwide have begun to implement bullying prevention programs that advise students to tell an adult, walk away, or ask the bully to stop. While previous work has demonstrated that individual differences (e.g., gender) influence the likelihood of students choosing assertive responses in lieu of aggressive responses, there has been less research on understanding how aspects of the school climate affect students’ responses to bullying. This study explores how perceptions of teacher and student intervention as well as perceptions of school safety and connectedness influence students’ likelihood of responding aggressively (i.e., retaliating) or seeking support from an adult. These data come from an online school climate survey administered to 25,308 students in 58 high schools. Three-level hierarchical linear modeling was conducted on a subset of 6,493 students who reported being bullied in the past year. Results suggest that bystander perceptions and school climate play a role in influencing students’ responses to bullying, both by decreasing the likelihood of victims using an aggressive response and increasing their likelihood of seeking support from school staff. Interventions that focus more holistically on changing school climate may better interrupt the cycle of violence.
Chronic Stress as a Mediator of Acute Stress: The Case of Hurricane Hugo1

This study explored one mechanism through which acute disaster stress (injury, life threat, property damage, loss) may produce lasting psychological distress (depression, anxiety, somatization, hostility). More specifically, the study examined the mediating roles of seven domains of chronic stress (marital, parental, filial, financial, occupational, ecological, physical) within a sample of 930 disaster victims and controls. The results provided strong support for the hypothesis that chronic stress mediates the long-term effects of acute disaster stress on psychological distress. The main effects of loss, though limited in strength, were completely explained by victims’ higher financial, marital, filial, and physical stress. The effects of injury, though quite strong, were largely mediated by these same domains of chronic stress. Likewise, the effects of life threat were largely mediated by all these domains plus ecological stress. A mediational model was not appropriate for understanding the consequences of property damage because it did not exhibit a main effect on psychological distress.
Differences in patient outcomes after conventional versus real time perfusion stress echocardiography in men versus women: a prospective randomised trial

Objective The purpose of our study was to determine whether sex affects the predictive value of perfusion and wall motion imaging obtained with real time myocardial contrast echocardiography (RTMCE) when compared with conventional stress echocardiography (CSE). Methods We prospectively enrolled 1649 age-matched men and women with intermediate pretest probability of coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing stress echocardiography for suspicion of CAD. Patients with known CAD were excluded. Those who consented to participate in the study were randomised to undergo either CSE or RTMCE. Events were defined as death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI) and need for revascularisation. Results Median follow-up was 2.6 years (927 women, 722 men). Mean age was 58±13 years in both sexes. There were a total of 62 deaths, 12 MIs and 85 revascularisations with a 2-year event rate of 3.5% (95% CI 2.7% to 4.7%). Male sex was a significant independent predictor of adverse outcome (death, non-fatal MI) in both CSE and RTMCE (CSE HR 2.07, 95% CI 1.07 to 4.02, RTMCE HR 2.14; 95% CI 1.04 to 4.33). Higher 2-year event rates were noted in men in comparison with women after a normal CSE (men 5.4%, women 1.6%, p=0.02), but not after a normal RTMCE (men 5.8%, women 3.7%, p=0.41). Event rates were also significantly higher in men after an abnormal RTMCE (men 34.8%, women 16.4%, p=0.02) but no difference in outcome between sexes was observed after an abnormal CSE (men 17.8%, women 18.6%, p=0.90). Conclusions The addition of perfusion imaging with RTMCE improves the predictive value of stress echocardiography in men with no known CAD, but does not improve the predictive value in age-matched women.
“I Won't Back Down”: Complexity and Courage in Government Executive Decision Making

Senior government executives make many difficult decisions, but research suggests that individual cognitive limitations and the pathologies of “groupthink” impede their ability to make value-maximizing choices. From this literature has emerged a normative model that Irving Janis calls “vigilant problem solving,” a process intended for the most complex decisions. To explore its use by senior public officials, the authors interviewed 20 heads of subcabinet-level organizations in the U.S. federal government, asking how they made their most difficult decisions. The initial focus was on whether they employed a vigilant approach to making decisions that were informationally, technically, or politically complex. Most executives identified their single most-difficult decision as one that required courage; they often made such courageous decisions after personal reflection and/or consultation with a small number of trusted advisors rather in ways that could be described as vigilant. The different approaches for making complex decisions, compared with those involving courage, are discussed and a contingency model of effective executive decision making is proposed that requires leaders (and their advisors) to be “ambidextrous” in their approach.
Margin mapping in transoral surgery for head and neck cancer.

Objectives/Hypothesis To evaluate the results of patients treated by transoral laser microsurgery and margin mapping with attention to deep margin dimensions in the lateral pharyngeal wall. Study Design A microscopic margin analysis of multiblock surgical specimens applied to a prospectively accrued case series of squamous cell carcinoma of the palatine tonsils. Methods There were 128 tonsil cancers analyzed that were removed transorally, using microscopic margin mapping by surgeon and pathologist. The closest deep and peripheral margins were assessed. The results were then related to a study of the normal dimensions of the lateral pharyngeal wall in 20 healthy patients using magnetic resonance imaging. Outcome measures included number of positive margins, narrowest margin, local control, and disease-free and overall survival. Results The average closest margin was 1.98 mm (range, 0.30–6.50 mm) deep and 2.82 mm (range, 1.00–5.00 mm) peripheral. There was one positive margin encountered in the previously untreated group (1%), and one local recurrence ultimately developed. Radiographic measures revealed a mean minimal thickness of the lateral pharyngeal wall musculature of 2.4 mm. With mean follow-up of 4.3 years (range, 2–14 years), the 5-year estimate for local control is 99%, disease-free survival is 94.5%, and overall survival is 76%. Conclusions Margin mapping achieves a low rate of positive margins and is associated with good local control. Based on lateral pharyngeal wall anatomy, wide margins are often unobtainable and may be unnecessary so long as the final inked margin is clear. Level of Evidence 4.
Measurement of leaf longevity of 14 species of grasses and forbs using a novel approach

summary Grasses and forbs are often classified into separate functional types, although systematic dierences between the types have only been verified for a few functional traits. Since leaf longevity has been shown to be a key trait linking plant ecophysiology, whole-plant growth and ecosystem resource cycling, we compared the leaf longevity of 14 species to determine if there were consistent dierences between grasses and forbs or other functional classifications, such as persistence of leaves into winter. Leaf longevity was assessed in 6-yr-old monoculture plots in central North America by tagging and sequentially monitoring the phenological states of whole forb leaves and sections of grass leaves. This new approach enables a calculation of leaf longevity unbiased by the manner in which grass leaves grow and provides a more accurate comparison between grasses and forbs. Lupinus perennis had the shortest leaf longevity (4 wk) and Koeleria cristata, Poa pratensis, and Solidago rigida the longest (13‐14 wk). Average leaf longevity for the 14 species was c. 9 wk, with no significant dierences between grasses and forbs nor between current alternative functional classifications.
Measuring Goodness of Story Narratives.

Purpose The purpose of this article was to evaluate a new measure of story narrative performance: story completeness. It was hypothesized that by combining organizational (story grammar) and comple...
Can the desire to conserve our natural resources be self-defeating?

Abstract This note develops a model of optimal resource extraction under uncertainty when the stock of the resource has amenity value. In non-stochastic models of resource extraction amenity value usually reduces the rate of extraction. In a stochastic model, however, amenity value may increase or decrease risk aversion. The change in risk aversion in turn may increase or decrease consumption—and hence extraction—depending upon whether the substitution effect dominates the income effect for riskless consumption paths. Paradoxically, it is possible for amenity value to increase the rate of extraction. By cherishing our natural resources we may hasten their depletion.
Development of a gel spinning process for high-strength poly(ethylene oxide) fibers

This article describes a new gel-spinning process for making high-strength poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) fibers. The PEO gel-spinning process was enabled through an oligomer/polymer blend in place of conventional organic solvents, and the gelation and solvent-like properties were investigated. A 92/8 wt% poly(ethylene glycol)/PEO gel exhibited a melting temperature around 45°C and was highly stretchable at room temperature. Some salient features of a gel-spun PEO fiber with a draw ratio of 60 are tensile strength at break = 0.66 ± 0.04 GPa, Young's modulus = 4.3 ± 0.1 GPa, and a toughness corresponding to 117 MJ/m3. These numbers are significantly higher than those previously reported. Wide-angle x-ray diffraction of the high-strength fibers showed good molecular orientation along the fiber direction. The results also demonstrate the potential of further improvement of mechanical properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2839–2847, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Computing and stability in cortical networks

Cortical neurons are predominantly excitatory and highly interconnected. In spite of this, the cortex is remarkably stable: normal brains do not exhibit the kind of runaway excitation one might expect of such a system. How does the cortex maintain stability in the face of this massive excitatory feedback? More importantly, how does it do so during computations, which necessarily involve elevated firing rates? Here we address these questions in the context of attractor networks--networks that exhibit multiple stable states, or memories. We find that such networks can be stabilized at the relatively low firing rates observed in vivo if two conditions are met: (1) the background state, where all neurons are firing at low rates, is inhibition dominated, and (2) the fraction of neurons involved in a memory is above some threshold, so that there is sufficient coupling between the memory neurons and the background. This allows "dynamical stabilization" of the attractors, meaning feedback from the pool of background neurons stabilizes what would otherwise be an unstable state. We suggest that dynamical stabilization may be a strategy used for a broad range of computations, not just those involving attractors.
Spousal Caregivers of Persons With Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease Dementia: A Preliminary Comparison

Dementia occurs as a primary component of Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer's type (SDAT) and as a secondary component of Parkinson's Disease (PD) in a subset of PD patients. We compared caregiver distress subsequent to the unique features of these dementing illnesses. Self- and other-rated depression was compared in spousal caregivers for 23 SDAT patients, 23 PD with dementia patients, and 23 control subjects. The two caregiving groups were similar in the length of time they had been providing assistance and in caregiver distress, and both caregiver groups were more depressed than comparison subjects.
Associations between recent contraceptive use and quality of life among women

Background Whether contraception affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is unclear.
Parental and peer influences on teen smoking: Are White and Black families different?

Introduction: The health risks associated with smoking disproportionately burden Blacks, and Black adults are more likely to smoke than are White adults. Most adult smokers have their fi rst smoking experience as teenagers; however, rates of smoking initiation during adolescence remain lower among Black compared with White youth. Methods: The level and impact of family and peer risk and protective factors on adolescent smoking across both groups were modeled prospectively from 8th to 10th grade in a sample of 331 (Black n = 162, White n = 168) families using data from self-administered computer-assisted questionnaires. Predictors included parent smoking, guidelines against substance use, monitoring, consistent discipline, attachment to parents, and association with deviant peers. Results: Mean-level differences indicated greater risk for Black teens in some cases and higher protection in others. Multiplegroup structural equation modeling indicated no race differences. Several factors affected both groups: (a) parenting factors reduced association with deviant peers, (b) association with deviant peers increased the risk of smoking in the 10th grade, and (c) teens were more likely to smoke if their parents smoked. Discussion: Reduced smoking among Black teens compared with White teens may be due to the protection of clear parental guidelines about substance use and clearly stated consequences for failure to observe those guidelines.
Why I still teach online searching

Pourquoi continuer a enseigner aux etudiants en sciences de l'information la recherche en ligne alors que des millions de gens le font eux-memes sur le Web ? Les utilisateurs doivent naviguer au sein de toutes sortes de sources et de systeme d'information, et le role des etudiants, futurs intermediaires, consistera a les y aider, en clarifiant leurs besoins d'information, en realisant une analyse a facettes, en suggerant des termes de recherche, en identifiant les bases de donnees pertinentes, en choisissant la bonne strategie de recherche, en les formant a la recherche booleenne et en localisant les sources.
Iran’s Nuclear Program: The Case for Engagement

For 10 years the international community has failed to achieve a diplomatic resolution to the crisis surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. As Iran’s potential to make nuclear weapons matures, some observers may feel that diplomacy has become futile. This chapter argues reviews the history of diplomatic efforts and current national positions and concludes that there is no fundamental reason why a diplomatic solution is impossible. Instead, past attempts have been plagued by poor messaging, bad timing, and organizational problems associated with domestic and international institutions. Instead of leading to despair, this history can inform future diplomatic strategy, and suggests a promising path forward. Nevertheless, given the enormous difficulty of diplomacy, one could reasonably ask if there were better alternatives. This chapter reviews a range of possible paths and concludes that, despite the challenges, diplomacy remains the best way to end the crisis on peaceful terms.
The prognostic value of non-perfusion variables obtained during vasodilator stress myocardial perfusion imaging

Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is an established diagnostic test that provides useful prognostic data in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. In more than half of the patients referred for stress testing, vasodilator stress is used in lieu of exercise. Unlike exercise, vasodilator stress does not provide information on exercise and functional capacity, heart rate recovery, and chronotropy, and ECG changes are less frequent. These non-perfusion data provide important prognostic and patient management information. Further, event rates in patients undergoing vasodilator MPI are higher than in those undergoing exercise MPI and even in those with normal images probably due to higher pretest risk. However, there are a number of non-perfusion variables that are obtained during vasodilator stress testing, which have prognostic relevance but their use has not been well emphasized. The purpose of this review is to summarize the prognostic values of these non-perfusion data obtained during vasodilator MPI.
The Effect of Light upon the Follicular Hormone.

In an earlier paper we1 described an improved method for the preparation of the oestrous hormone from hog liquor folliculi, which was based upon the differences in the solubilities of the hormone and cholesterol in petroleum ether and 70 per cent alcohol. During the past summer we were astonished to find that the procedure was not as satisfactory as was formerly found and that losses of over 50 per cent of the hormone were frequently encountered. Since the only changes in the procedure were those imposed by climatic conditions and the substitution of more carefully purified solvents for the commercial products, it was a relatively easy matter to determine the source of our trouble. By the process of elimination it was found that light exerts a profound effect upon the hormone. It is possible that this was not noticed earlier because the laboratory work upon which the method is based was carried out during the winter months.In an earlier publication Allen and Ellis2 call attention to the destruction of the...
Experimental demonstration of a photonic Aharonov-Bohm effect at radio frequencies

Building upon recent theoretical proposals for creating an effective gauge field for photons, we experimentally demonstrate the photonic Aharonov-Bohm effect. The effect relies on the nonreciprocal phase acquired by photons during photonic transitions. Our photonic Aharonov-Bohm interferometer is broadly tunable with a contrast ratio above 30 dB, as the operating frequency varies between 8 and 12 MHz.
Flexible Plasmonic Sensors

Mechanical flexibility and the advent of scalable, low-cost, and high-throughput fabrication techniques have enabled numerous potential applications for plasmonic sensors. Sensitive and sophisticated biochemical measurements can now be performed through the use of flexible plasmonic sensors, integrated into existing medical and industrial devices or sample collection units. More robust sensing schemes and practical techniques must be further investigated to fully realize the potentials of flexible plasmonics as a framework for designing low-cost, embedded and integrated sensors for medical, environmental, and industrial applications.
Construction and identification of the cDNA library for Tetranychus urticae

To construct the cDNA library of Tetranychus urticae for further studying its related genes,total RNA was extracted of T.urticae by TRIzol and the construction of cDNA library was used by SMART cDNA library construction kit.A modified CDS III/3'PCR primer and the SMART IV Oligo primed the first-strand synthesis reaction and the second-strand cDNA was synthesized and amplified by LD(longdistance) PCR.Then the PCR products were purified with a universal DNA purification kit,the double-stranded cDNA were ligated to the pDNR-LIB vector.The ligation mixture was transformed into the E.coli competent cells to complete the construction of the cDNA library of T.urticae.The content and recombination rate of the cDNA library were tested and the length of inserted fragments was analyzed by PCR.The content of library was 3.54×106CFU/mL,the recombinant efficiency was 95.8% and the average of insert size was between 0.3 kb and 2.0 kb.The results showed that this library was of high quality to set the basis for further exploring the genes of T.urticae.
Minutes of the 8~(th) National Postgraduate Symposium on Environmental and Occupational Medicine

The 8th National Postgraduate Symposium on Environmental and Occupational Medicine was held in Soochow University from Apr.23 through 25,2009.The theme of the symposium was Environmental and Occupational Medicine——Microscopic and Macroscopic Study.It was sponsored by Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine(JEOM)and School of Radiation Medicine and Public Health,Soochow University.There were over 60 representatives from different universities and scientific research institutions participated in this symposium.Score of postgraduate fellows from Soochow University sat in on this symposium.It provided quite an effective platform for national exchanges and cooperation to the postgraduate fellows,and improved the influences of JEOM.
Stone Formation as a Complication of Indwelling Ureteral Stents: A Report of 5 Cases

AbstractThe silicone ureteral catheter has proved to be an invaluable addition to the armamentarium of the urological surgeon and, infrequently, it is associated with complications. We report 5 cases of stone formation associated with indwelling silicone ureteral catheters.
Effectiveness of a Low-Cost Drilling Module in Orthopaedic Surgical Simulation

Introduction Financial pressures and resident work hour regulations have led to adjunct means of resident education such as surgical simulation. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a hands-on training session in orthopaedic drilling technique educational model during a surgical simulation on reducing drill plunging depth and to determine the effectiveness of senior residents teaching a hands-on training session in orthopaedic drilling technique. Methods A total of 13 participants (5 orthopaedic interns and 8 medical students) drilled until they penetrated the far cortex of a synthetic bone model and the plunging depth (PD) was measured. They were then randomized and underwent an education session with an attending orthopaedic surgeon or a senior resident. Next, the subjects drilled again with the PD being calculated. The preeducational and posteducational session were compared to determine if there was any improvement in PD and if there was a difference between educators. The cost of the model was also determined. Results The mean maximum PD and mean PD before the education session was 1.58 (1.40-2.10) and 1.50 cm (1.36-1.76), respectively. Following the educational session, the mean maximum PD and mean PD were 0.53 (0.42-0.75) and 0.50 cm (0.40-0.72), respectively. These were both significantly lower than before the education session (p After the educational session taught by the attending versus the session taught by the resident, the mean maximum PD was 0.59 (0.42-0.75) and 0.49 cm. (0.45-0.75), respectively (p = 0.44). After the educational session taught by the attending versus the session taught by the resident, the mean PD was 0.54 (0.40-0.72) and 0.47 cm. (0.40-0.65), respectively (p = 0.44). The cost of the station per participant was $5.44. Conclusion This study demonstrated a significant reduction in drilling PD with use of a low-cost training model and a formal didactic and skills session on proper drilling technique that can effectively be led by senior residents.
A revision of Prespelea Park (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae).

We revise the genus Prespelea Park, redefining and redescribing the two previously known species, P. copelandi Park and P. quirsfeldi Park, and adding ten new species: P. parki Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. minima Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. morsei Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. divergens Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. carltoni Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. myersae Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. georgiensis Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. enigma Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., P. wagneri Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n., and P. basalis Caterino & Vasquez-Velez, sp. n.. The genus is still only known from a relatively small area in the southern Appalachian Mountains, but the diversity is much greater than previously suspected. The new species exhibit considerable diversity in male secondary sexual characters. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis cannot conclusively resolve the polarity of eye and wing reduction across Speleobamini, but the monophyly of Park's subgenus Fusjugama, if expanded to include all species with full-eyed and winged males, is not supported, and we therefore synonymize it with Prespeleas. str.
Pharmacological Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Current and Evolving Treatments

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory sinonasal condition with multiple etiologic factors that is associated with a vast economic cost. Treatment is most frequently pharmacologic and has centered on agents that ameliorate inflammation, decrease bacterial or pathogen load, and facilitate egress of mucus or purulence from the sinonasal cavity. Nasal saline irrigations, topical nasal steroids, certain antibiotics, and systemic steroids have shown some efficacy in the management of CRS. Recently, biologic therapeutics that target specific inflammatory pathways associated with subsets of CRS have been developed and evaluated. Early data evaluating these biologic treatments suggest a potential role in treating a subset of CRS with refractory, poorly controlled disease. Additional studies are necessary to identify which patients would benefit most from biologic therapies and to assess the cost of these therapies compared with the benefit they provide. This review describes the pathophysiology of CRS and summarizes both established and novel biologic pharmacologic treatments.