cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of aromatic hydrocarbons by means of average local ionization energies on their molecular surfaces

Abstract The average local ionization energies i S ( r ) and the electrostatic potentials V S ( r ) have been computed on the molecular surfaces of nine aromatic hydrocarbons, at the Hartree–Fock HF/6-31G∗∗//HF/STO-3G and Kohn–Sham B3P86/6-31G∗∗//HF/STO-3G levels. The surface areas, the fractions covered by positive and negative potentials, and their average values are quite similar by both computational procedures. The average values of i S ( r ) and its minima, i S,min (which indicate the most reactive electronic sites), are smaller in magnitude at the Kohn–Sham level, but the differences from the Hartree–Fock are fairly uniform and the minima occur at essentially the same positions. In nearly all instances, therefore, the same qualitative predictions result from either approach. Most of the i S,min are found in bond regions and indicate varying degrees of olefin-like behavior. Some i S,min are located near carbons, and it is proposed that these reflect some radical character. Supporting evidence is cited.
Fibroblast growth factor enhances the transcription and stability of human chorionic gonadotropin beta-subunit messenger ribonucleic acid in Jar choriocarcinoma cells

In previous studies, we found that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) significantly stimulated the secretion of hCG beta in the Jar choriocarcinoma cell line. In the present study, the effect of bFGF on the steady state hCG beta mRNA level in this cell line was determined. Application of Northern analyses with total RNA isolated from bFGF-stimulated Jar cells revealed that, in a time-dependent manner, the steady state hCG beta mRNA level increased progressively, reaching 4-fold of the control value within 4 h after exposure to bFGF. The observed accumulation was due in part to increased transcription (2.4-fold relative to that in control cultures), as determined by nuclear transcription studies. In addition, bFGF increased the stability of the hCG beta message; the message half-life was increased from approximately 3 h (in control cultures) to greater than 6 h (in bFGF-treated cultures). These data demonstrate that bFGF stimulates hCG beta mRNA accumulation in a complex manner regulated through both tr...
Using an assistant coach (“AC”) to foster the learning of group counseling skills

Abstract The authors present a strategy for teaching group counseling skills to beginning group leaders. Using this strategy, leaders receive on-the-spot, unplanned feedback that seems to foster learning
SAR and species/stereo-selective metabolism of the sorbitol dehydrogenase inhibitor, CP-470,711.

Abstract SAR studies on the stereoisomers of CP-470,711 suggested that in vivo epimerization was taking place in rats. Further metabolism studies revealed that no epimerization was occurring in dogs, and that no epimerization was expected in humans. A mechanism for the in vivo epimerization is proposed involving an oxidation–reduction pathway of the secondary benzylic alcohol, in contrast to an acid/base-promoted epimerization of the same center during chemical synthesis.
The influence of antiadhesion therapies on leukocyte subset accumulation in central nervous system ischemia in rats

Although treatment with agents that block leukocyte function, including anti-ICAM-1 and doxycycline, reduces experimental central nervous system (CNS) ischemic injury, it is not known how leukocyte subset accumulation is affected by these agents. Using the rat two-vessel occlusion model and immunohistochemistry, we investigated granulocyte (PMN) and monocyte/macrophage (Mφ) accumulation at 1 and 4 d postischemia. A total of 24 animals were randomized to sham surgery, or to ischemia with saline, anti-ICAM-1, or doxycycline treatments. No leukocytes were observed in sham animals. At 24 h postischemia, there was a moderate infiltration of PMN and Mφ in untreated animals that was significantly decreased with either treatment. At 4 d after ischemia no PMN were identified, with extensive Mφ accumulation occurring in untreated animals that was only partially reduced with doxycycline treatment. These results confirm that both anti-ICAM-1 and doxycycline treatments reduce PMN and Mφ infiltration at 24 h. Delayed Mφ accumulation occurs despite treatment, suggesting that some of these cells represent transformed resident microglia.
Wear transition diagram for silicon nitride

Abstract Utilization of silicon nitride ceramics in applications involving contact between two sliding surfaces requires information on the effect of contact conditions and materials microstructure on tribological performance. In the present study, unlubricated wear tests were conducted on a hot isostatically-pressed silicon nitride under various test conditions in self-mated sliding tests in air. Following the tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to elucidate the wear mechanisms and particularly to delineate the effects of load and temperature on wear. The results of the tests and observations were used to construct a wear transition diagram, with load and temperature as the two axes. This diagram is divided into five regions plus one transition zone. The controlling mechanism and tribological data, i.e. friction coefficient and wear coefficient, in each region are unique. At low loads and relatively low temperatures, the tribological behavior is controlled by tribochemical reactions between silicon nitride surface and water vapor in the environment. In the temperature range 400–700°C at low loads, selective oxidation of WC inclusions controls the wear behavior. Formation of crystalline precipitates from the amorphous magnesium silicate grain boundary phase controls the wear process from 700 to 900°C at low loads. At higher temperatures, oxidation of silicon nitride dominates the wear process. A transition to severe wear by micro-fracture is observed as the contact load is increased above a particular value. Detailed understanding of the fundamental mechanisms can provide guidelines for microstructural modifications to avoid severe wear under operating conditions.
A revision of Moonia (Compositae, Heliantheae, Coreopsidinae)

The genusMoonia of India and Ceylon, traditionally placed in the subtribe Melampodiinae, is shown to have closer affinities withDahlia andHidalgoa of the subtribe Coreopsidinae. Several morphologically heterogeneous taxa are excluded fromMoonia, and the remaining species,M. heterophylla, is described and illustrated.
Chemical control of the eastern spruce gall aphid with observations on host preference and population increase.

Field insecticide studies demonstrated that lindane (1 lb. actual toxicant per 100 gallons of water) gave good control of eastern spruce gall aphid ( Chermes abietis L.) when applied between the time of last freeze and start of terminal shoot elongation. Sevin® (1-naphthyl methylcarbamate) (2 lbs.) was less effective, while dimethoate (2 lbs.), malathion (1 lbs.), and Phosdrin® (1-methoxyearbonyl-1-propen-2-yl dimethyl phosphate) (1 lb.) gave little or no control Statistical analyses of infestations over a 2-year period show (1) a 15% greater incidence of attack on white as compared with Norway spruce; (2) a 6% increase in over-all infestation from 1958 to 1959; (3) a strong tendency for infestations to recur on previously infested trees. This suggests that by harvesting infested trees, a grower could reduce the infestation in a given planting, if such a program were initiated before the percentage of attacked trees was too high. Finally, the view that certain trees are resistant to aphid attack is questioned, using as a basis the tendency of this insect to reinfect previously infested trees. It is reasoned that, even though new and previously uninfected trees appear to be randomly attacked each year, the rate of spread is so slow that one-fifth of the trees in the study area are expected to remain uninfected for 5 consecutive years, owing to insect behavior alone.
Md-ACS1 and Md-ACO1 genotyping of apple ( Malus x domestica Borkh.) breeding parents and suitability for marker-assisted selection

Fruit ethylene production genotypes for Md-ACS1 and Md-ACO1 were determined for 60 apple cultivars and 35 advanced breeding selections. Two alleles for each gene are commonly found in cultivated apple. Earlier studies showed that genotypes homozygous for the ACS1-2 allele produce less ethylene and have firmer fruit than ACS1-1/2 and ACS1-1/1 genotypes. ACO1 plays a minor role compared to ACS1, with homozygous ACO1-1 having lower ethylene production. In this study, ACS1-2 and ACO1-1 homozygotes had firmer fruit at harvest and after 60 days of 0–1°C cold storage compared to other genotypes. These genotypes, ACS1-2/2 and ACO1-1/1, were observed for the following 8 of 95 cultivars/selections: “Delblush”, “Fuji”, “Pacific Beauty”, “Sabina” and four breeding selections. Cultivars/selections that were homozygous ACS1-2 but not ACO1-1 were: “Ambrosia”, “Aurora Golden Gala”, “CrimsonCrisp”, “Gala”, “GoldRush”, “Huaguan”, “Pacific Rose, “Pacific Queen”, “Pinova”, “Sansa”, “Sonja”, “Sundance”, “Zestar”, and 17 breeding selections. Cultivars with the heterozygous ACS1-1/2 genotype were “Arlet”, “Braeburn”, “Cameo”, “Delicious”, “Delorgue”, “Empire”, “Enterprise”, “Ginger Gold”, “Golden Delicious”, “Granny Smith”, “Honeycrisp”, “Orin”, “Pink Lady”, “Silken”, “Suncrisp”, “Sundowner”, “Sunrise” and 11 breeding selections. No cultivars were detected homozygous for both ACS1-1 and ACO1-1, or for both ACS1-2 and ACO1-2. This study is the first large-scale allelic genotyping of both ethylene synthesis genes for a comprehensive set of apple breeding parents used in an ongoing breeding project. The data reported here are important for informative selection of parent combinations and marker-assisted selection of progeny for breeding low ethylene-producing apple cultivars for better storability and improved consumer acceptance.
The Relationship of Institutional Characteristics and Giving Participation Rates of Alumni

There are many variables that influence alumni giving at colleges and universities. A growing body of research is revealing new knowledge about factors related to individual donors, fund-raising practices, and the external environment. However, relatively little attention has been given to basic institutional characteristics that may impact alumni giving. This study asks the question, “What institutional characteristics, not directly related to fund-raising practices, predict higher giving participation rates (GPR) among alumni?” Using secondary analysis of data compiled by US News and World Report (USNWR), this study examines characteristics of private master's level universities ranked in the top two tiers of USNWR's 2002 edition of America'ps Best Colleges. This study finds sufficient explanatory power in some basic institutional variables to merit their consideration in comparisons of fund raising between institutions.
Pegaptanib for wet macular degeneration.

Pegaptanib sodium injection (Macugen®, Eyetech Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, New York, NY, USA) is a relatively new medication intended to treat the so-called wet (neovascular) form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This form of AMD is characterized by the growth of unwanted new blood vessels into the macula (angiogenesis). The aqueous solution containing pegaptanib is injected into the vitreous of the eye, where it binds to the 165 amino acid isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a secreted protein that is thought to play a major role in the pathologic angiogenesis that occurs in wet AMD. Neovascular AMD is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over age 60 in the United States and other industrialized countries (1). Pegaptanib acts as a selective VEGF antagonist through its molecular structure as an aptamer, a pegylated modified oligonucleotide that adopts a three-dimensional configuration, enabling it to bind to extracellular VEGF (Fig. 1). Aptamers are macromolecules composed of chemically synthesized single-stranded nucleic acids (either RNA or DNA) that bind with a high degree of selectivity and affinity when exposed to target proteins. Pegaptanib binds VEGF 1 6 5 , and bound VEGF 1 6 5 is not able to bind to the VEGF receptor, thereby negating its ability to cause angiogenesis and vascular permeability. Other aptamers exist, as do other forms of treatment for AMD. To date, however, no treatment for AMD has allowed for better vision after treatment, with most surgical treatments leading to almost immediate loss of some vision in the expectation of preventing more severe loss. Research in the field of macular degeneration is advancing rapidly, and treatment with an aptamer such as pegaptanib is a viable option despite the possibility of adverse events.
Oxygen diffusion in quartz: Dependence on temperature and water fugacity

Abstract Oxygen self-diffusion coefficients (D) were determined in single crystals of Brazilian quartz by measuring 18O concentration profiles with an ion microprobe. In the α-quartz field at 450–590°C and 100-MPa confining pressure, for diffusion parallel to c, the Arrhenius relation is described by the parameters D0 = 2.9 · 10−5 m2 s−1 and Q = 243 ± 17 kJ (g-at. O)−1. The diffusion rate was also measured in β-quartz from 5- to 350-MPa confining pressure and at 700°C as a function of water, hydrogen and oxygen fugacities as well as for different proton activities. There is a good correlation of D with water fugacity, no correlation with oxygen nor hydrogen fugacities, and no correlation with proton activity over the range for which this parameter could be fixed independent of the water fugacity, The available evidence suggests that the oxygen-bearing species responsible for the rapid transport of oxygen under hydrothermal conditions is molecular water. The rate controlling step for oxygen diffusion may be either the rate of migration of water molecules, or the rate of oxygen exchange between the water molecules and the quartz structure.
A general numerical solution to optimal nonlinear stochastic structural control problem

Civil engineering structural systems exhibit hysteretic behavior when under extreme loading conditions as well as when energy dissipation devices are employed. To investigate the optimal control strategy for reducing the system response under random excitations (earthquakes, wind gust or sea waves), a general control solution is proposed in this paper. The approach considers the solution of the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation for general nonlinear stochastic systems, under the assumption that the evolution of the state of the stochastic system can be described by a Markov diffusion process. Several numerical examples are provided to verify the efficacy of the optimal control solution obtained from the proposed method. First, a linear oscillator is used to verify that the obtained solution is indeed the optimal solution by comparing it to the closed form solution. Then the proposed method is applied to several nonlinear systems including Van der Pol and Duffing oscillators and a Bouc-Wen system. In each case, optimality is demonstrated by comparing the system responses and costs under optimal control with the ones obtained using linearized optimal control.
Precision Measurement Of Hyperfine Structure In I 2

In this paper we report precision studies of I2127 hyperfine structure using laser molecular-beam techniques. A single-frequency 5145 A argon laser tunable over 0.1 A was used to excite a molecular beam of 12 at right angles. The induced fluorescence was collected by a lens system and focused onto a photomultiplier. The I2 transitions excited were the hyperfine compo-nents of the P(13) and R(15), 43-0 lines between the z, and 31-1 electronic states. go u The hyperfine frequency spacings were precisely determined by counting the beat frequency between two lasers that were long-term stabilized to various hyperfine lines. The standard deviation of the measurements was approximately 25 kHz. The measured spectrum was fitted to obtain a quadrupole coupling strength difference AeQq= 1894.48 . 36 MHz and a spin-rotation interaction strength difference AC, = 190.7 ± 1.5 kHz between the upper and lower levels of the P(13) transition. For the R(15) transition, we obtained AeQq = 1894. 66 ± .40 MHz and ACI = 187.1 ± 2. 0 kHz. High-resolution line - shape studies were performed using a long-term stabilized laser and an acousto-optic tuning method. The measured width of the individual I2 transi-tions was 140 kHz (FWHM). By taking into account broadening from the geometric Doppler width, laser jitter, and other small effects, an estimate of 70 kHz (FWHM) for the natural linewidth was obtained which was in excellent agreement with lifetime mea-surements. Attempts to fit the observed line shapes showed clear Lorentzian features. Taking account of the natural linewidth, the instrumental resolution was ≈70 kHz or one part in 1010.© (1974) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Variation in practices and attitudes of clinicians assessing PTSD-related disability among veterans.

James C. Jackson, Center for Health Services Research, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Division of Allergy/Pulmonary/CriticalCare Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and Oliver Zangwill Centre; Patricia L. Sinnott, Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, and Departmentof Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of California, San Francisco; Brian P. Marx, VA National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, and Department of Psychiatry,Boston University School of Medicine; Maureen Murdoch, Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research and Section of General Internal Medicine, Minneapolis VA Medical Center, andDepartment of Medicine, University of Minnesota; Nina A. Sayer, Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research and Section of General Internal Medicine, Minneapolis VA Medical Center, andDepartment of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota; JoAnn M. Alvarez, and Robert A. Greevy, Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; Paula P. Schnurr, VA NationalCenter for PTSD, White River Junction VA Medical Center, and Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Medical School; Matthew J. Friedman, VA National Center for PTSD, White River JunctionVA Medical Center, and Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Dartmouth Medical School; Andrea C. Shane, Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System; RichardR. Owen, VA Mental Health Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (MH QUERI), Central Arkansas VA Healthcare System and Division of Health Services Research, Department of Psychiatry,College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Terence M. Keane, VA National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System and Department of Psychiatry, Boston UniversitySchool of Medicine; Theodore Speroff, Center for Health Services Research, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Department ofBiostatistics, and Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.This research was supported by grant number SDP 06-331 from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs Quality Enhancement Research Initiative. This material is based upon work supportedby the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Ofﬁce of Research and Development, Health Services Research and Development QUERI program. The views expressed inthis article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reﬂect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States government.Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to James C. Jackson, 6th Floor MCE, Suite 6100, Division of Allergy/Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt Medical School,Nashville, TN 37232. E-mail: james.c.jackson@vanderbilt.edu.
Orbit decomposition of subset actions

For a finite permutation group G acting on a finite set A, and for each positive integer r (not exceeding the degree of A), the orbit decomposition of the action of G on the set λr(A) of r-element subsets of A is specified.
Partial molal volumes of n-alkyl p-aminobenzoates in nonpolar solvents

The partial molal volumes of ethyl and n-butyl p-aminobenzoate were determined in seven solvents, including benzene, toluene, carbon tetrachloride, cyclohexane, n-dodecane, n-heptane and n-hexane. These p-aminobenzoates were found to have statistically larger partial molal volumes in the long-chain and cyclic alkanes than in the remaining five solvents. The higher partial molal volumes would contribute to deviations from ideal entropies of mixing in the form of excess volumes of mixing. Estimates of the solubility parameters for ethyl and n-butyl p-aminobenzoate were revised using the experimental partial molar volumes and solubility data for these two solutes in each of the seven solvents. The revised solubility parameters indicate that the experimental volumes do not reduce the previously reported variation in the solubility parameter when estimated from solubilities in these seven solvents. Consideration of the entropy of mixing in light of the experimental volumes showed no advantage over the assumption of an ideal entropy of mixing.
Further observations on the 2-thiobarbituric acid method for the measurement of oxidative rancidity

The validity of the 2-thiobarbituric acid (TBA) procedure for the measurement of oxidative rancidity by the determination of malonaldehyde (MA) as the red pigment with an absorption max at 532 mµ has been questioned [J. Am. Oil Chem. Soc.39, 34 (1962)]. Side reactions were reported to occur yielding degradation of TBA to products which absorb at the same wave length as the TBA-MA complex and at 450 mµ.
Modulating the biochemical and biophysical culture environment to enhance osteogenic differentiation and maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitors

Advances in the fields of stem cell biology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering over the last decades have brought the possibility of constructing tissue substitutes with a broad range of applications in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug discovery. Different types of human stem cells have been used, each presenting a unique set of advantages and limitations with regard to the desired research goals. Whereas adult stem cells are at the frontier of research for tissue and organ regeneration, pluripotent stem cells represent a more challenging cell source for clinical translation. However, with their unlimited growth and wide differentiation potential, pluripotent stem cells represent an unprecedented resource for the construction of advanced human tissue models for biological studies and drug discovery. At the heart of these applications lies the challenge to reproducibly expand, differentiate, and organize stem cells into mature, stable tissue structures. In this review, we focus on the derivation of mesenchymal tissue progenitors from human pluripotent stem cells and the control of their osteogenic differentiation and maturation by modulation of the biophysical culture environment. Similarly to enhancing bone development, the described principles can be applied to the construction of other mesenchymal tissues for basic and applicative studies.
A combined density functional theory/molecular mechanics formalism and its application to small water clusters

Abstract We present a study of the conformations of the water dimer, trimer and tetramer using a combined density functional theory/molecular mechanics method (DFT/MM). Both local density approximation (LDA) and non-local density functional (NLDF) calculations are reported, employing two basis sets (polarized valence double zeta (DZVP) and augmented correlation consistent polarized valence double zeta (aug-cc-pVDZ)). In comparing the optimized geometries and the binding energy from the DFT/MM calculations with those derived from pure DFT and previous MP2 treatments, we find that an NLDF calculation is required to derive energetics which match the MP2 results. In all the cases studied, LDA is found to overestimate the binding energy and underestimate the oxygen–oxygen bond lengths ( R (O–O)) between two hydrogen-bonded water molecules. We attribute this to the importance of an NL description of hydrogen bonds, as previously found by other researchers. For the combined DFT/MM calculations, the situation is more complicated. While the MM term is, of course, not sensitive to NLDF, the DFT component of a partitioned DFT/MM system exhibits the same sensitivity as the pure DFT to NLDF, while the DFT/MM coupling term is less sensitive. The sensitivities of the DFT and DFT/MM calculations to the basis set are similar to the NLDF case. In all cases, the aug-cc-DZVP gives longer R (O–O) values and higher (less negative) binding energies than DZVP, but underestimates the binding energy when the H bond(s) exist(s) in the DFT region. The DFT/MM coupling term is found to be dependent on the initial geometry to some extent. In summary, the DFT/MM calculations with properly selected basis sets and NLDF give energetics and geometric information which compare favorably with MP2 results. © 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.
Scheduling Simulation in a Distributed Wireless Embedded System

The aims of the research are to develop a distributed simulation environment and to investigate techniques that support efficient task-scheduling algorithms in fault-tolerant, real-time, distributed, and wireless embedded systems. Techniques developed include deadline-based real-time scheduling, priority-based scheduling, and redundant resource allocation for fault-tolerant, energy-aware, and signal strength-aware scheduling. A system model is proposed, and a prototype of the distributed simulation environment is implemented. Three scheduling algorithms and sample applications are designed and implemented in the environment. Experiment data are collected for analyzing the effectiveness of the algorithms.
Modeling of separation behavior of epoxy/Cu interface using molecular dynamics simulation

Epoxy molding compounds (EMC) have been widely used in electronic packaging industry as adhesives, for example, die-attach and underfill. However, interfaces between EMC and other components such as copper substrates are weak and prone to delamination, due to large interfacial stresses developed during thermal cycling processes. Cohesive zone finite element method is able to simulate fracture initiation and propagation along a prescribed path, thus is an ideal choice of interface performance evaluation. However, this continuum mechanics based method relies on the determination of a traction-separation law to define cohesive elements. To this end, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is conducted in this work to extract traction-separation law from a fully-atomistic model for epoxy/Cu interface at finite temperature. The epoxy studied in this work is a novel epoxy molding compound synthesized by curing tri/tetra-functionalized EPN1180 with Bisphenol-A. A fully atomistic model for epoxy reflecting its network nature was created by applying a cross-linking algorithm to a confined layer with 2D periodic boundary condition assigned, containing a physical mixture of monomers. The interface model was built by laying epoxy slab with 2D crosslinked network structure on Cu substrate, and further optimized by energy minimization and MD simulations. MD simulation of tensile deformation was then conducted to extract traction-separation law for epoxy/Cu interfaces. Failure of the interface model was found to initiate within epoxy, localized within an interfacial zone, but transit to complete interface separation in the end.
An assessment of grower perceptions and factors influencing adoption of IPM in commercial cranberry production

A survey was developed and distributed to the Massachusetts cranberry grower community in 1999 to identify biological, educational, social and political barriers to the adoption of available integrated pest management (IPM) practices. The response rate for the 450 growers who received the survey was 54%. Approximately 80% of respondents claimed to practice IPM frequently and 16% identified themselves as occasional practitioners. Most growers practiced IPM because they agreed with IPM philosophy (80%) and believed it had environmental benefits (73%). Ninety-two percent agreed that more IPM-related research and education programs would encourage them to adopt practices they are not currently using. A significant percentage of respondents used multiple IPM component practices, with practices involving monitoring and detection of pests along with judicious use of pesticides being most common. Factor analysis was used to condense 104 potential responses to 22 factors, which were then used as predictors with six demographic variables (IPM adoption, education level, age, experience, farm size and work status). Demographic factors influenced a grower's tendency to incorporate IPM into routine farm activities. Full-time, highly experienced growers in charge of large operations tended frequently to use more IPM practices than less experienced growers who worked part-time and managed smaller farms. A large proportion of respondents agreed that IPM can reduce pesticide residues in food (92%) and the environment (96%), and can help to preserve beneficial insects (96%). Although many growers held the perception that IPM can pose measurable economic risk (and subsequently act as a barrier to adoption), growers appeared to feel less strongly about the economic benefits than potential environmental ones.
MITOCHONDRIAL RESPONSES TO CARBON MONOXIDE TOXICITY

CO not only bonds hematin iron in blood hemoglobin but also ligands hematin iron atoms of cytochrome a/sub 3/. Nonuniform distribution of CO means that rapidly metabolizing tissue are more susceptible to CO toxicity. Mitochondria are protected by branching and cushioning mechanism so CO toxicity response is not linear as in COHb formation. O/sub 2/ flux in respiratory change is not altered by CO. In these in vitro experiments, as little as 100 ppM CO transiently disrupted cytochrome system in transition from anoxia to nonmoxia, slowing the oxidaton of the chain. Pigeon mitochondria were extremely sensitive to CO when in metabolically-active (uncoupled) state. Increased binding of CO to cytochrome a/sub 3/ during anoxia was observed.
The Biobehavioral Effects of Gentle Human Touch on Preterm Infants

This study examined the physiological and behavioral effects of a gentle human touch nursing intervention on medically fragile preterm infants (27 to 32 weeks gestational age). The Roy adaptation model of nursing was the framework for the study. The results of this study suggest that the immediate and short-term effects of a gentle human touch nursing intervention were not aversive or stressful to preterm infants of 27 to 32 weeks gestational age; furthermore, the findings document several positive, beneficial behavioral effects of the intervention on preterm infants and indicate this type of touching may be appropriate for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Changes in pH of Milk During Freezing and Frozen Storage

Summary Measurement of pH during freezing and frozen storage of pasteurized and raw milk and of raw milk with added calcium, phosphate, and citrate showed that marked pH changes occurred in frozen milk. During slow freezing, the pH of milk decreased to values as low as 5.8, whereas little change in pH occurred during fast freezing. During storage at −7° C. as well as at −12° C. the pH decreased to a minimum during the first 2 to 3 wk. of storage, and increased gradually thereafter. The pH minimum of pasteurized milk and raw milk with added salt (5.8–6.0) was generally lower than that of raw milk (6.1–6.2). The increase in pH after the pH minimum was reached was more gradual in pasteurized milk and raw milk with added chemicals than in raw milk. Although the amount of precipitated protein was measured simultaneously with pH, the data did not indicate a definite relation between pH changes and protein precipitation.
Delegating agency among researcher, biostatistician and computer machinery: modeling in biostatistics

Medical researchers exercise and delegate agency for making inferences or for making claims. In the biostatistical consultations discussed here, they encounter three key knowledge-producing agents in the "epistemic culture" (Knorr Cetina, 1999) of biostatistics: themselves, biostatistician and computer machinery. Who or what does what occurs amidst a "dance of agency" among the participants (Pickering, 1995). These interpretations provide support for recent reforms employing modeling approaches in science and mathematics instruction in K-16 settings.
Keys to a successful and sustainable telemedicine program.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine organizational characteristics evident in successful telemedicine programs. The study proposed four research questions to identify the key organizational characteristics for successful telemedicine programs.Methods: Data were collected through an online survey using modified unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) and organizational change readiness (ORC) validated assessments.Results: Using the UTAUT instrument and the ORC assessment, themes of successful telemedicine programs emerged. Overarching themes of successful programs included being formally structured, forward thinking, seeking to improve the quality of patient care, and being financially stable.Conclusions: This research provides a data-driven understanding of organizational issues that serve to maximize a telemedicine program's ability to achieve the overall goals and mission of a healthcare organization.
Ultimate Complexity: A Hindu Process Theology

This paper will present an overview of a Hindu process theology. The specific problem it will address, utilizing this theological model, is whether there is only one ultimate reality, or more than one. A source of recent controversy among process thinkers is the approach to religious pluralism that has been developed by John Cobb and David Ray Griffin. This approach operates with the idea that there is more than one ultimate reality. But does this not contradict the very notion of what an ultimate reality is? Or do Cobb and Griffin use an understanding of the term ultimate different from conventional understandings? This paper will suggest that Cobb’s and Griffin’s basic thesis can be preserved with the idea of a single, but internally complex, ultimate reality, and that this concept is available from within the Vedānta tradition.
Training Apartment Upkeep Skills to Rehabilitation Clients: A Comparison of Task Analytic Strategies.

The research was designed to validate procedures to teach apartment upkeep skills to severely handicapped clients with various categorical disabilities. Methodological features of this research included performance comparisons between general and specific task analyses, effect of an impasse correction baseline procedure, social validation of training goals, natural environment assessments and contingencies, as well as long-term follow-up. Subjects were taught to perform upkeep responses on their air conditioner-heating unit, electric range, refrigerator, and electrical appliances within the context of a multiple-probe across subjects experimental design. The results showed acquisition, long-term maintenance, and generalization of the upkeep skills to a nontraining apartment. General task analyses were recommended for assessment and specific task analyses for training. The impasse correction procedure generally did not produce acquisition.
The Impact Of Scaling Up Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision As An Hiv Intervention In South Sudan

Background: Voluntary medical male circumcision ( VMMC) reduces the risk of HIV acquisition in men. Though VMMC programs are being scaled up across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), no VMMC program has been initiated in the world's youngest nation, South Sudan. The possibly growing HIV epidemic in this nation, currently at a prevalence of 3%, and the stark geographic variability in prevalence, suggests an opportunity for controlling HIV transmission using VMMC with sub-population prioritization. Our aim was to explore, using mathematical modeling, the impact of VMMC programming in South Sudan. Method: We used the Age Structured Model (ASM), recently developed in partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to assess VMMC impact. The model has been applied in several SSA countries. The ASM stratifies the population into compartments according to sex, circumcision status, age group, risk group, HIV status and stage of infection. Results: To achieve 80% VMMC coverage by 2020 among the 15-49 years old males, 2.17 million VMMCs are needed at a total cost of $187 million USD. An additional 1.52 million VMMCs would be needed by 2030 to maintain this coverage at an additional cost of $115 million. By 2030, 123,057 HIV infections would be averted (29.7% of new infections). The number of VMMCs needed to avert one infection (effectiveness) is 30, while the cost per infection averted is $2,608. Through sub-population prioritization by age, VMMC effectiveness ranges between 28 (25-29 and/or 30-34 years age groups), and 91 (10-14 years age group). The cost per infection averted is $2,453 and $2,548 for the age groups of 25-29 and 30-34, respectively, while it is $6,837 for the 10-14. The effectiveness of geographical prioritization varies across states. The lowest number of VMMCs needed to avert one infection is 19 in the state of West Equatoria, while the highest number is 120 in the states of Warrap or Northern Bahr Ghazal. Prioritization by risk group is very effective with only one VMMC needed per infection averted by targeting the highest risk group, while 180 would be needed by targeting the lowest risk group. Conclusion: Though at higher cost per infection averted compared to other SSA countries, our findings demonstrate that a VMMC program in South Sudan can be effective and cost-saving. The effectiveness of VMMC scale-up can be optimized by sub-population prioritization of 25-34 years old males, states with the highest HIV prevalence, and high-risk populations. A VMMC program in South Sudan should be considered, and donor support should be secured to initiate and sustain its establishment. Health and Biomedical
Bonding interfaces in wafer-level metal/adhesive bonded 3D integration

This paper examines the bonding interfaces in a back-end- of-line (BEOL) compatible wafer-level three-dimensional (3D) integrated circuit (IC) technology platform with wafer bonding of damascene patterned metal/adhesive surfaces. Copper and partially cured benzocyclobutene (BCB) are selected as the metal and adhesive, respectively. To prevent bonding voids and defects, the Cu-Ta-BCB, Cu-Cu, and BCB-BCB interfaces are investigated. Bonding voids and defects at the Cu-Ta-BCB and Cu-Cu interfaces are attributed to surface defects, topography, and thermomechanical stress resulting in plastic deformation of the copper during bonding. Defects observed at the BCB-BCB interface are attributed to an inability to accommodate large post-CMP topography. Short-loop wafer bonding experiments are performed using a process that eliminates the Cu/Ta interconnect structure, but provides the capability to produce controlled topography. Key parameters to prevent void formation at the BCB-BCB interface are the topography depth and pitch, as well as the BCB cure, denoted here as the crosslinking percentage. For BCB-BCB bonds formed with a partial-cure preparation of ~70-90% crosslinking, features ~1 mum in pitch are accommodated when the depth of the BCB topography is less than 12 nm. The accommodation depth is increased by a factor of ~4 with 50% crosslinked BCB.
Explicit forwarding controllers-beyond linearizable class

Following an explicit design for linearizable feedforward systems: feedforward systems in [Krstic, 'integrator forwarding... ," ACC'04], we find closed form control laws for several classes of systems that are not linearizable, including some in the feedforward form and 'block-feedforward' form.
Length of congressional tenure and federal spending: Were the voters of Washington state correct?

In this article we determine the nature of the relationship between congressional tenure and the distribution of federal outlays. A popular assumption is that this relationship is a strong one, with senior members of Congress obtaining a disproportionate share of federal dollars for their own constituents. In fact, the argument that senior members are able to perform this feat is suspected to be a factor in the defeat of a term limit initiative in Washington state in 1991. Term limits, it was argued at the time, would put the state of Washington at a disadvantage in the race for favorable federal treatment. Previous empirical research, however, has found little evidence that legislative tenure matters in the distribution of federal dollars, thus throwing into question the validity of popular assumptions about the importance of congressional tenure. By analyzing data at both the state and congressional district levels, we help to specify the conditions under which legislative experience does and does not l...
Basic 1,3-Dioxolanes

The preparation of a series of 2-aminomethyl and 4-aminomethyl-1,3-dioxolanes has been described. A selected number of the products were subjected to preliminary pharmacologic evaluation.
Disrupted rich club network in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and early-onset Alzheimer's disease.

In network analysis, the so-called “rich club” describes the core areas of the brain that are more densely interconnected among themselves than expected by chance, and has been identified as a fundamental aspect of the human brain connectome. This is the first in-depth diffusion imaging study to investigate the rich club along with other organizational changes in the brain's anatomical network in behavioral frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), and a matched cohort with early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD). Our study sheds light on how bvFTD and EOAD affect connectivity of white matter fiber pathways in the brain, revealing differences and commonalities in the connectome among the dementias. To analyze the breakdown in connectivity, we studied three groups: 20 bvFTD, 23 EOAD, and 37 healthy elderly controls. All participants were scanned with diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and based on whole-brain probabilistic tractography and cortical parcellations, we analyzed the rich club of the brain's connectivity network. This revealed distinct patterns of disruption in both forms of dementia. In the connectome, we detected less disruption overall in EOAD than in bvFTD [false discovery rate (FDR) critical Pperm = 5.7 × 10−3, 10,000 permutations], with more involvement of richly interconnected areas of the brain (chi-squared P = 1.4 × 10−4)—predominantly posterior cognitive alterations. In bvFTD, we found a greater spread of disruption including the rich club (FDR critical Pperm = 6 × 10−4), but especially more peripheral alterations (chi-squared P = 6.5 × 10−3), particularly in medial frontal areas of the brain, in line with the known behavioral socioemotional deficits seen in these patients. Hum Brain Mapp, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Human Brain Mapping Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serotonin relaxes porcine pial veins

The effect of serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] on pial venous tone of the pig was examined using in vitro tissue bath techniques. Isolated pial venous rings exhibited spontaneous rhythmic contractions (SRC) on mechanical stretching and/or applications of several vasoactive substances, including norepinephrine. On the other hand, KCl induced sustained active muscle tone (SAT) without SRC. The SRC induced by mechanical stretching were not affected by tetrodotoxin, nitro-L-arginine, alpha- and beta-adrenergic, histaminergic, and muscarinic receptor antagonists, indicating that the SRC in porcine pial veins are of myogenic origin. The SRC induced by stretching or applications of vasoactive substances and SAT induced by KCl were inhibited by 5-HT in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibition was prevented by methysergide and methiothepin but not by ketanserin, propranolol, 3 alpha-tropanyl-1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid ester, hemoglobin, or nitro-L-arginine. The SRC and SAT were inhibited by 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT), 8-hydroxy-2-di-N-propylaminotetralin HBr (8-OHDPAT), 1-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]piperazine (TFMPP), and 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT), but not by sumatriptan, alpha-methylserotonin, or 2-methylserotonin. On the other hand, 5-CT, 8-OHDPAT, TFMPP, 5-MT, and sumatriptan constricted the porcine pial arteries exclusively. In 15% of pial venous preparations examined, 5-HT at low concentrations induced ketanserin-sensitive constrictions. These results indicate that the porcine pial venous smooth muscle contains multiple subtypes of 5-HT receptors. The 5-HT inhibition of SRC and SAT is predominant and is mediated by 5-HT1-like receptors, which, however, do not seem to correspond to 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, 5-HT1C, 5-HT1D, 5-HT1E, or 5-HT1F receptor subtypes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Regression of uterine leiomyomata to the antiprogesterone RU486: dose-response effect.

Objective To study the response of uterine leiomyomata to three daily doses of RU486 (5, 25, and 50 mg). Design Prospective nonrandomized trial of women with symptomatic leiomyomata. Setting Patients from the clinical practice of the authors at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center. Patients Ten patients with symptomatic leiomyomata previously reported after treatment with 50 mg of RU486 daily for 3 months. Eleven patients treated with 25 mg of RU486 daily and nine patients placed on 5 mg of RU486 daily for 12 weeks. Main Outcome Measures Changes in leiomyomata volume as measured with vaginal ultra-sounds at baseline and monthly thereafter. Frequent blood samples for hematology, chemistry, and hormone levels were obtained. Twenty-four-hour urine collections for free Cortisol and creatinine were obtained at baseline and at 12 weeks. Results All three doses induce ovarian acyclicity. Administration of 50 mg of RU486 decreases leiomyomata volume to 78.1% ± 4.8% of baseline at 4 weeks, 60.5% ± 6.6% at 8 weeks, and 51.0% ± 9.2% after 12 weeks of treatment. Regressive response in patients treated with 25 mg of RU486 daily was 76.3% ± 5.0% of baseline at 4 weeks, 54.0% ± 5.1% at 8 weeks, and 44.0% ± 5.0% after 12 weeks. At 5 mg of RU486, leiomyomata volume was 80.6% ± 8.3% of baseline after 4 weeks, 63.7% ± 14.6% after 8 weeks, and 74.4% ± 19.8% after 12 weeks of therapy. Conclusions Although acyclicity is seen at all three doses, an effective dose to cause a clinically significant (50%) decrease in leiomyomata volume appears to be 25 mg daily.