cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
KINETIC EVIDENCE FOR ELECTRON TUNNELING IN SOLUTION

The rate constants and yields of uncorrelated radical ions in the photoreactions of zinc octaethylporphyrin have been measured in a large number of solvents of widely varying dielectric constant by use of a sensitive and fast conductance apparatus and a pulsed laser system. The reaction of triplet with triplet proceeds with rate constants >1010 M-1 sec-1 irrespective of solvent dielectric constant but inversely proportional to solvent viscosity. From these data we calculate a reaction radius of 20 ± 1 A. From the yield of ions, ˜70% at infinite dielectric constant, we calculate a similar radius: 21 ± 4 A. Analysis of the ion yield as a function of di-electric constant gives a reaction radius of 21.2 ± 0.9 A. The sum of the physical radii and the measured reaction radius for the re-verse reaction of the ions is about 15 A. These data are explained by electron transfer through some 6 A of solvent.
Yield Challenges and Innovative Inspection & Metrology Solutions for Sub-10nm Manufacturing

Computational simulations offer a cost-effective way to peek into future challenges in wafer manufacturing. In this paper, a variety of simulation methods will be discussed, including their ability to better predict process changes and the implications to inspection and metrology. Process simulation software Coventor SEMulator3D® was used to visualize process variations and an in-house rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) engine was built to calculate the propagation of E-field through wafer topology [1]. By simulating a self-aligned gate contact and via process, we estimate the process window, defects-of-interest, and metrology requirements. Another study estimates the yield impact of film particles being decorated through different process steps. The final series of work attempts to understand the responses of inspection tools to varied defect and pitch sizes on an extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) line and space pattern. As a semiconductor equipment manufacturer, KLA-Tencor values the detail provided by these simulations as they highlight potential yield challenges, which guides our development of next-generation process control solutions [2], [3].
An Unsupervised Learning Framework for Track Quality Index and Safety

Rail track geometry defect remains a primary cause of train accidents in the USA. With over $1 billion lost annually to geometry-related accidents, there is an urgent need to re-assess the analysis and treatment of geometry defects. The development of track quality index (TQI) takes a contracted view of track assessment by focusing only on quality without any safety consideration. Track geometry safety limits are set by Federal Railroad Administration based on raw track geometry data. Since different variations of track geometry parameters exist, there is a skepticism about the effectiveness of the current bipartite analytical approach of track quality and safety. These results into two maintenance regimes: regular and spot maintenance. This study aims to create a framework through which a hybrid index that combines both safety and quality can effectively eliminate costly spot maintenance practices. This index would be used to create a data-driven maintenance scheme that maximizes the time between two maintenance cycles and minimizes disruptions. This technical note describes the proposed framework for creating such an index using unsupervised machine learning.
Relational formations of race: theory, method, and practice

The study of race has often been faulted for focusing and comparing the experiences of whites and other ethno-racialized groups. Relational Formations of Race: Theory, Method, and Practice offers u...
Health Psychology Consultation in the Inpatient Medical Setting

Health Psychology Consultation in the Inpatient Medical Setting is suitable and recommended for any collection that focuses on clinical psychology or interprofessional consultation.
Chromium isotope fractionation during reduction of Chromium(VI) by Iron(II/III)-bearing clay minerals

Abstract Chromium stable isotope ratios are used to trace the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) in both ancient and modern systems. However, quantitative interpretation of Cr isotopic signatures has been stymied by the large variability in isotopic fractionation factors for Cr(VI) reduction by different reductants. Here we determine Cr isotope fractionation factors during Cr(VI) reduction by Fe(II/III)-bearing clay minerals, which are abundant in subsurface environments. Several variables were tested: pH, total Fe content of the clay, and the fraction of reduced Fe within the clay (Fe(II)/Fe(total)). The latter controls the standard reduction potential of the clay. Our results demonstrate that neither pH nor total Fe content of the clay have major effects on isotopic fractionation. In contrast, as the effective standard reduction potential of the clay and thus the standard free energy of Cr(VI) reduction become more negative, Cr isotope fractionation factors decrease in magnitude from −4.9 to −1.3‰ according to a linear free energy relationship. This linear free energy relationship can be predicted from Marcus electron transfer theory and allows first-order predictions of Cr isotope fractionation factors to be made from the standard reduction potential or Fe(II)/Fe(total) of a clay, potentially improving our ability to model Cr isotope signatures in geochemical systems. Chromium is the first isotope system to show such a linear free energy relationship over a diverse range of reductants, including both aqueous and solid-phase reductants, and may provide a model for determining other redox-driven kinetic isotope effects in environmentally important isotope systems.
Retinal Phenotyping of Ferrochelatase Mutant Mice Reveals Protoporphyrin Accumulation and Reduced Neovascular Response.

Purpose Heme depletion, through inhibition of ferrochelatase (FECH), blocks retinal and choroidal neovascularization. Both pharmacologic FECH inhibition and a partial loss-of-function Fech mutation (Fechm1Pas) are associated with decreased neovascularization. However, the ocular physiology of Fechm1Pas mice under basal conditions has not been characterized. Here, we aimed to characterize the retinal phenotype of Fechm1Pas mice. Methods We monitored retinal vasculature at postnatal day 17, 2 months, and 6 months in Fechm1Pas homozygotes, heterozygotes, and their wild-type littermates. We characterized Fech substrate protoporphyrin (PPIX) fluorescence in the eye (excitation = 403 nm, emission = 628 nm), retinal function by electroretinogram, visual acuity by optomotor reflex, and retinal morphology by optical coherence tomography and histology. We stained vasculature using isolectin B4 and fluorescein angiography. We determined endothelial sprouting of retinal and choroidal tissue ex vivo and bioenergetics of retinal punches using a Seahorse flux analyzer. Results Fundi, retinal vasculature, venous width, and arterial tortuosity showed no aberrations. However, VEGF-induced retinal and choroidal sprouting was decreased in Fechm1Pas mutants. Homozygous Fechm1Pas mice had pronounced buildup of PPIX in the posterior eye with no damage to visual function, bioenergetics, and integrity of retinal layers. Conclusions Even with a buildup of PPIX in the retinal vessels in Fechm1Pas homozygotes, the vasculature remains normal. Notably, stimulus-induced ex vivo angiogenesis was decreased in Fechm1Pas mutants, consistent with reduced pathologic angiogenesis seen previously in neovascular animal models. Our findings indicate that Fechm1Pas mice are a useful model for studying the effects of heme deficiency on neovascularization due to Fech blockade.
Can we predict which COVID-19 patients will need transfer to intensive care within 24 hours of floor admission?

BACKGROUND: Patients with COVID-19 can present to the emergency department (ED) at any point during the spectrum of illness, making it difficult to predict what level of care the patient will ultimately require. Admission to a ward bed, which is subsequently upgraded within hours to an intensive care unit (ICU) bed, represents an inability to appropriately predict the patient's course of illness. Predicting which patients will require ICU care within 24 hours would allow admissions to be managed more appropriately. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of adults admitted to a large health care system, including 14 hospitals across the state of Indiana. Included patients were aged ≥ 18 years, were admitted to the hospital from the ED, and had a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19. Patients directly admitted to the ICU or in whom the PCR test was obtained > 3 days after hospital admission were excluded. Extracted data points included demographics, comorbidities, ED vital signs, laboratory values, chest imaging results, and level of care on admission. The primary outcome was a combination of either death or transfer to ICU within 24 hours of admission to the hospital. Data analysis was performed by logistic regression modeling to determine a multivariable model of variables that could predict the primary outcome. RESULTS: Of the 542 included patients, 46 (10%) required transfer to ICU within 24 hours of admission. The final composite model, adjusted for age and admission location, included history of heart failure and initial oxygen saturation of 6.4 or glomerular filtration rate < 46. The odds ratio (OR) for decompensation within 24 hours was 5.17 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.17 to 12.31) when all criteria were present. For patients without the above criteria, the OR for ICU transfer was 0.20 (95% CI = 0.09 to 0.45). CONCLUSIONS: Although our model did not perform well enough to stand alone as a decision guide, it highlights certain clinical features that are associated with increased risk of decompensation.
The Long Road Towards an International Legal Order

This essay, written for the centenary edition of the "Brazilian Society of International Law Bulletin”, takes stock of a century of development in international justice. Nowadays, at least internationally, everyone is recognized a long and expanding list of rights, and there are many opportunities to obtain justice, both domestically and internationally, far more than ever in the history of humankind. Democracy and rule of law have made much progress domestically. That progress has been accompanied, during the second half of the twentieth century, by the development of international human rights law, first, and subsequently, towards the end of the century, by a large and rapidly expanding network of international courts and tribunals to provide an array of remedies when those rights have been violated. Yet, despite this remarkable progress, arguably much of humanity still does not have access to justice domestically, internationally, or both. If human rights are truly universal, how come the remedies for their violations are not universal, too? Does international law amount to a “legal order”? This essay reviews the extent to which the “international judicial network” has grown, and then it explains why and how it is not complete yet.
Sextus, Montaigne, Hume: Pyrrhonizers

This work invites us to view the Pyrrhonist tradition as involving all those who share a commitment to the activity of Pyrrhonizing and develops fresh, provocative readings of Sextus, Montaigne, and Hume as radical Pyrrhonizing skeptics: From the aspirationalism of Sextan Pyrrhonism, to Montaigne’s skeptical fideism and his unusual approach to the writing process, to the vexing interpretive issues surrounding Hume’s skepticism, each figure offers us new insights into what it can mean to Pyrrhonize.
Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions Through Generative Adversarial Networks Based Wildfire Prediction.

Over the past decade, the number of wildfire has increased significantly around the world, especially in the State of California. The high-level concentration of greenhouse gas (GHG) emitted by wildfires aggravates global warming that further increases the risk of more fires. Therefore, an accurate prediction of wildfire occurrence greatly helps in preventing large-scale and long-lasting wildfires and reducing the consequent GHG emissions. Various methods have been explored for wildfire risk prediction. However, the complex correlations among a lot of natural and human factors and wildfire ignition make the prediction task very challenging. In this paper, we develop a deep learning based data augmentation approach for wildfire risk prediction. We build a dataset consisting of diverse features responsible for fire ignition and utilize a conditional tabular generative adversarial network to explore the underlying patterns between the target value of risk levels and all involved features. For fair and comprehensive comparisons, we compare our proposed scheme with five other baseline methods where the former outperformed most of them. To corroborate the robustness, we have also tested the performance of our method with another dataset that also resulted in better efficiency. By adopting the proposed method, we can take preventive strategies of wildfire mitigation to reduce global GHG emissions.
Efficient network coding scheme for disjoint clusters of D2D networks and cellular communications

This paper considers a broadcast scenario where a base station seeks to transmit a common content to a group of users. Due to impairments inherent to broadcast channels, transmitted content may be partially received by the users, thereby requiring retransmissions to recover missing parts of the content. The retransmission process can be optimized by leveraging instantly decodable network coding (IDNC) with the help of disjoint clusters of combinations of single-hop fully connected and/or multi-hop partially connected device-to-device (D2D) network configurations. This paper aims to find an efficient encoding strategy for the broadcasted packets that minimizes the packet completion time problem, defined as the number of transmission slots necessary to satisfy the demand of all users. To this end, we design an efficient mechanism, LoCoNCDC, which enables us to find feasible codes that can be transmitted by the base station via cellular links. Moreover, the proposed LoCoNCDC permits us to identify the set of transmitting D2D users along with the corresponding IDNC packets that the transmitting users can broadcast through D2D links. Furthermore, we theoretically characterize the performance bound of the proposed approach. Finally, the efficiency of the proposed LoCoNCDC is validated through numerical results which demonstrate substantial performance gain compared to existing schemes.
Testate Amoebae as Paleoclimatic Proxies in Rocky Mountain Peatlands: A Case Study in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

We investigated the potential of testate amoebae (Protozoa: Rhizopoda) for reconstructing past climate changes in the Rocky Mountain region. Our specific objectives were to determine environmental controls on modem testate amoeba distribution in Sphagnum-dominated peatlands of the region, reconstruct past temporal changes in testate amoebae from a Sphagnum-dominated peatland in southwestern Yellowstone National Park, and assess relationships between climate variability and testate amoebae for the past century. Our results indicate that substrate moisture is the dominant control on modem testate amoeba distribution in the region, consistent with studies from other regions. Temporal changes in testate amoebae reconstructed from a floating peat mat in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem show considerable variability during the past several hundred years, and variability during the past century was correlated with the instrumental record of drought at decadal timescales. The patterns suggest that sensitive paleoclimatic reconstructions are possible from floating mats in the region, and perhaps elsewhere. Testate amoebae from peatlands in the Rocky Mountains show great potential for reconstructing past climate variability, corroborating and extending records inferred from other proxies.
Physical layer algorithms with limited feedback: power control and coding strategies

The uncertainty in the received signal is the main limiting factor for the throughput of any communication system with limited resources. In this thesis we analyze the potential gain in throughput by managing channel uncertainty, noise, and interference using algorithms such as power control and coding techniques applied at the transmitter. Our contributions are (i) design and analysis of algorithms based on limited information about the uncertainties, and (ii) taking into account the resources required for collecting these information. The thesis is divided into two parts. The first part considers the case of channel information at the transmitter. Since most receivers implicitly or explicitly estimate the channel, often a closed loop system is designed to provide the channel state information at the transmitter. We model a finite capacity feedback link by assuming that only few bits of information about the channel are available at the transmitter. We develop a power control algorithm that is asymptotically optimum. Using the designed power control scheme, we characterize the tradeoff between diversity order and multiplexing gain of the multiple antenna systems, and conclude that feedback can significantly reduce uncertainty due to channel fading. In the second part we consider a multiple access channel with two transmitters and a single receiver, and analyze the impact of cooperation between the senders on the system throughput. In two case studies we establish the importance of cooperation, and the tradeoff between throughput and access overhead. Further, we show that the cost associated with establishing cooperation may exceed the consequent gain. Thus, as the major contribution of the second part, we develop a model based on two-way channel. We are the first to find upper and lower bounds on achievable rates of multiple access two-way channels with noisy feedback. Since the feedback link uses the same channel resources, the cost of feedback is automatically considered. By constructing a coding scheme we show that the two-way channel model is essential in having throughput gain in multiple access channel with noisy feedback. We also demonstrate that feedback based cooperation can reduce uncertainty due to interference and additive noise.
Infinitely Renormalizable Quadratic Polynomials

We prove that the Julia set of a quadratic polynomial which admits an infinite sequence of unbranched, simple renormalizations with complex bounds is locally connected. The method in this study is three-dimensional puzzles.
Distinct CD8+ T Cell Repertoires Primed with Agonist and Native Peptides Derived from a Tumor-Associated Antigen

Heteroclitic peptides are used to enhance the immunogenicity of tumor-associated Ags to break T cell tolerance to these self-proteins. One such altered peptide ligand (Cap1-6D) has been derived from an epitope in human carcinoembryonic Ag, CEA(605-613) (Cap1). Clinical responses have been seen in colon cancer patients receiving a tumor vaccine comprised of this altered peptide. Whether Cap1-6D serves as a T cell agonist for Cap1-specific T cells or induces different T cells is unknown. We, therefore, examined the T cell repertoires elicited by Cap1-6D and Cap1. Human CTL lines and clones were generated with either Cap1-6D peptide (6D-CTLs) or Cap1 peptide (Cap1-CTLs). The TCR Vbeta usage and functional avidity of the T cells induced in parallel against these target peptides were assessed. The predominant CTL repertoire induced by agonist Cap1-6D is limited to TCR Vbeta1-J2 with homogenous CDR3 lengths. In contrast, the majority of Cap1-CTLs use different Vbeta1 genes and also had diverse CDR3 lengths. 6D-CTLs produce IFN-gamma in response to Cap1-6D peptide with high avidity, but respond with lower avidity to the native Cap1 peptide when compared with the Cap1-CTLs. Nevertheless, 6D-CTLs could still lyse targets bearing the native epitope. Consistent with these functional results, 6D-CTLs possess TCRs that bind Cap-1 peptide/MHC tetramer with higher intensity than Cap1-CTLs but form less stable interactions with peptide/MHC as measured by tetramer decay. These results demonstrate that priming with this CEA-derived altered peptide ligand can induce distinct carcinoembryonic Ag-reactive T cells with different functional capacities.
The meteorological structure of the mesosphere including seasonal and latitudinal variations.

During 1960-68, the Goddard Space Flight Center has conducted 208 meteorological soundings of the mesosphere. The acoustic grenade technique provided a large portion of the data, consisting of vertical profiles of temperature, pressure, density and wind. These were supplemented by the pitot probe technique, which produces profiles of temperature, pressure, and density. The details of these experiments have been published by Nordberg and Smith (1964) and Horvath et al. (1962). The soundings included in the following analyses are tabulated individually and with complete error analyses by Smith et al. (1964, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, and 1970); they were carried out from the following sites: Ascension Islands (8°S); Natal, Brazil (6°S); Wallops Islands, Virginia, U.S.A. (38°N); Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (59°N); and Barrow, Alaska, U.S.A. (71°N). The individual soundings are relatively well distributed throughout the year with respect to season, and also with respect to the diurnal cycle. The number of observations is admittedly limited because obtaining in situ measurements in the mesosphere requires somewhat sophisticated, and therefore expensive, techniques: the analyses presented here represent all the available data for the sites discussed.
Time-Independent Wavepacket Quantum Mechanics

Quantum mechanics is a highly developed subject which has provided the foundation for describing physical and chemical phenomena since its inception in the 1920’s [1]. For non-relativistic systems, the fundamental equation describing a well specified state of such a system is the time-dependent Schrodinger equation (TDSE). For systems which are in eigenstates of the energy, the state vector has the form and substitution of this expression into the TDSE, leads to the celebrated time-independent Schrodinger equation (TISE), Here, H is the (time-independent) system Hamiltonian and we employ the Dirac notation. The form (1.1) is easily deduced from (1.2), for a time- independent H, by the standard technique of separation of variables.
New measure for fathers of children with developmental challenges.

Background There is a relative lack of measures tailored to the study of fathers of children with developmental challenges (DCs). The goal of the current study was to create and validate a brief measure designed to capture the perceptions and experiences of these fathers. The Fathers of Children with Developmental Challenges (FCDC) questionnaire was designed to assess fathers' perceptions of the supports for, and challenges to, their efforts to be involved in the rearing of their children. Method Participants were 101 fathers of children with DCs who completed an online survey. Scale validation included tests to determine reliability, validity and factor structure. Used to establish validity were measures of parenting stress, parenting commitment, parent personality and child social-communicative skills. Results Analyses indicated that the FCDC is reliable (α = 0.89), demonstrates content validity, construct validity and acts in theoretically expected ways. Factor analysis on the 20-item measure yielded two sub-scales: (1) impact on parenting, and (2) involvement with child intervention. Conclusions The FCDC fills a gap in the literature by offering an easy-to-administer self-report measure of fathers' perceptions of supports for, and barriers to, their involvement with their children with DCs. The FCDC could assist professionals in delivering support services specifically for fathers of children with DCs.
Mechanism of Ubiquitin Activation Revealed by the Structure of a Bacterial MoeB-MoaD Complex

The activation of ubiquitin and related protein modifiers is catalysed by members of the E1 enzyme family that use ATP for the covalent self-attachment of the modifiers to a conserved cysteine. The Escherichia coli proteins MoeB and MoaD are involved in molybdenum cofactor (Moco) biosynthesis, an evolutionarily conserved pathway. The MoeB- and E1-catalysed reactions are mechanistically similar, and despite a lack of sequence similarity, MoaD and ubiquitin display the same fold including a conserved carboxy-terminal Gly-Gly motif. Similar to the E1 enzymes, MoeB activates the C terminus of MoaD to form an acyl-adenylate. Subsequently, a sulphurtransferase converts the MoaD acyl-adenylate to a thiocarboxylate that acts as the sulphur donor during Moco biosynthesis. These findings suggest that ubiquitin and E1 are derived from two ancestral genes closely related to moaD and moeB. Here we present the crystal structures of the MoeB-MoaD complex in its apo, ATP-bound, and MoaD-adenylate forms, and highlight the functional similarities between the MoeB- and E1-substrate complexes. These structures provide a molecular framework for understanding the activation of ubiquitin, Rub, SUMO and the sulphur incorporation step during Moco and thiamine biosynthesis.
Preparation of Cycloheptane-1,3-Dione Via Reductive Ring Expansion of 1-Trimethylsilyloxy-7,7-Dichlorobicyclo[3.2.0]Heptan-6-One

Cycloheptane 1-Trimethylsilyloxybicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-6-one 1-Trimethylsilyloxy-7,7-dichlorobicyclo[3.2.0]hepta-6-one Dichloracetyl chloride 1-Trimethylsilyloxycyclopentene Acetic acid Keywords: cycloheptane-1,3-dione; reduction; diketones; desilylation; chlorine atom; cyclopentanone; tranfer hydrogenolysis; sodium formate
Abstract P6-05-06: Association of HER2/neu single nucleotide polymorphism with trastuzumab-related cardiotoxicity

Background: Treatment with trastuzumab prolongs overall survival when given to patients (pts) with Her2/neu+ breast cancer (BC). The primary toxicity of trastuzumab is cardiotoxicity and the incidence is estimated at 2-4% in the adjuvant setting. The mechanism for trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity is not known. Although Her2neu expression is usually not seen on cardiac myocytes, its expression has been shown to be upregulated after chemotherapy. Trastuzumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the extracellular domain of Her2/neu. We hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Her2/neu receptor may play a role in trastuzumab associated cardiotoxicity. Methods: 140 pts with BC who were treated with chemotherapy and trastuzumab were enrolled into an IRB approved protocol at the Weill Cornell Medical College between July 2008 and March 2013. Cardiotoxicity was defined as either symptomatic CHF, or a decline in LVEF of 15% (or if LVEF Results: 140 subjects (29 with cardiotoxicity and 111 without) had 11 SNPs sequenced. Median age of subjects was 56 years (range: 32-85), mean baseline LVEF was 65% (±6%). 16.4% of subjects had hypertension (HTN). 80% of patients were Caucasian, 10% East Asian, 7.1% African American, 2.9% South Asian. There were two SNPs for which there was variation seen among subjects: rs 1136201 (corresponding to codon 655) and rs61552325 (codon 1170). The frequencies of the codon 655 polymorphisms were: AA (Ile/Ile) 67.9%, AG (Ile/Val) 29.3%, and GG (Val/Val) 2.9%. The frequencies of the codon 1170 polymorphisms were: CC (Pro/Pro) 20.7%, GC (Ala/Pro) 45.7%, and GG (Ala/Ala) 33.6%. There was no association observed between the codon 655 polymorphism and cardiotoxicity (p = 0.96). A significant association between cardiotoxicity and the codon 1170 polymorphism was observed, with subjects having cardiotoxicity being more likely to carry the CC allele compared with subjects without cardiotoxicity (34.5% vs 17.1%, p = 0.04). This association persisted after multivariable adjustment for age, race, and HTN status (adjusted OR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.02-6.62, p = 0.046). Conclusion: In this study, the Her2/neu 1170 Pro/Pro polymorphism was associated with trastuzumab cardiotoxicity. If confirmed in a larger series, this polymorphism could be used to identify pts who may be at increased risk for cardiotoxicity and who may benefit from treatments associated with less cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, the Her2/neu 1170 SNP has previously been implicated as a minor histocompatibility antigen, and our findings raise the possibility that immune mediated mechanisms may play a role in trastuzumab related cardiotoxicity. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P6-05-06.
Did 1933 new deal legislation contribute to farm real estate values: A regional analysis

Abstract The proportion of land values generated by farm program payments and farm returns are examined using an extended income capitalization model. The extended income capitalization model addresses the identification issue introduced by the counter-cyclical nature of farm program payments and farm returns. Procedures are presented that allow the estimation of agriculture land value shares without requiring explicit knowledge or assumptions with respect to the net land rental shares of farm returns or farm program payments. Results from the panel recursive or triangular-structure simultaneous equation model applied to 48 states in the U.S. for the period 1938–2010 indicate on average 24–29.2 percent and 76–70.8 percent of the agricultural land values can be identified with farm program payments and farm returns, respectively. Spatially, at the resource regional level the contribution of farm program payments was as low as 20.5 percent in the Eastern Upland region compared to a high of 69 percent in the Mississippi Seaboard region.
Compensating, Resisting, and Breaking: A Meta-Analytic Examination of Reactions to Self-Esteem Threat:

Much research has identified how people react to receiving threatening information about the self. The purpose of this article is to discuss such experiences in the context of a model of state self-esteem regulation. The authors propose that people engage in one of three regulatory responses to threat: compensation, resistance, and breaking. They conduct a meta-analysis aimed to examine when people engage in each of these three responses to threat and how trait self-esteem affects the selection and success of selecting each regulatory response. Furthermore, the authors test six theoretical models that might explain why responses to ego threat vary across level of trait self-esteem. The models for differences between people with low and high trait self-esteem that fit the data best suggest that (a) self-esteem serves as a resource and (b) there is a self-verification motivation.
Exercise -unrelated sudden death as the first event of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the right aortic sinus

Congenital anomalous origins of the coronary arteries represents a rare but well-described cause of myocardial ischemia and sudden death. Left coronary artery (LCA) arising from the right sinus of Valsalva is a rare congenital coronary anomaly that seems to be commonly associated with sudden death in young trained athletes. The possibility of a coronary artery anomaly should always be considered in young individuals with a history of chest pain or syncope, particularly if the episodes are triggered by exercise. We describe a case of congenital LCA anomaly in an asymptomatic 10-year-old girl with no family history of sudden death; no previous unexplained syncopal episodes or exercise-induced symptoms were reported. She experienced a cardiac arrest while she was resting at school and was not recoverable despite early emergency department admission and intensive prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation attempts. Post-mortem pathological findings revealed a single origin from the right sinus of Valsalva for both right and left coronary arteries. The LCA was compressed between the aorta and the pulmonary trunk. Histologic features suggested recent ischemia. Although sudden death can be the first manifestation of this condition, it is important to be particularly aware of prodromic symptoms: exertional dyspnea, chest pain, syncope or dizziness. Recognition during life of this coronary anomaly is mandatory to prevent the risk of sudden death and to plan surgical correction if clinically indicated.
Whole Blood Pullorum Test Studies

Abstract DURING the year 1937–1938, 38 of the 42 states cooperating in the National Poultry Improvement Plan were cooperating in the control of pullorum disease. Twenty-four states were using the whole blood test as described by Schaffer, et al (1931). Three states were using the rapid serum test as described by Runnels, et al (1927). Seven states, including Ohio, were using the standard tube agglutination test as described in the Proceedings of the United States Livestock Sanitary Association (1932). Three states were using the whole blood and tube tests. One state was using the whole blood and rapid serum tests. Lubbehusen and Beach (1935) and Van Roekel and Clarke (1935) concluded that the whole blood pullorum test, in its state of development at that time, was not as accurate as the standard tube test. They suggested that the whole blood test should be subjected to further study in an effort . . .
Paramagnetic resonance spectra of NO2 trapped in alkali halides

Abstract : The impurity NO2 has been introduced into certain alkali-halide crystals. Two configurations of the NO2 molecule have been detected. In the first configuration (detectable at 77K) the impurity appears to occupy a positive ion vacancy and (except for a possible libratory motion) is frozen into (110) planes of the lattice. In the second modification the NO2 molecule probably occupies a negative ion vacancy and is rotating (even at 2K) about its y axis (the O---O direction). This axis is parallel to crystallographic directions. An analysis of the 14N and 17O hyperfine data is offered. (Author)
Temperature dependence of the fundamental optical absorption edge in crystals and disordered semiconductors

Abstract We present a first principles theory of the temperature dependence of the Urbach optical absorption edge in crystals and disordered semiconductors which incorporates the effects of short range correlated static disorder and the non-adiabatic quantum dynamics of the coupled electron-phonon system. At finite temperatures the dominant features of the Urbach tail are accounted for by multiple phonon absorption and emission side bands which accompany the optically induced electronic transition and which provide a dynamic polaronic potential well that localizes the electron. Excellent agreement is found with experimental data on both crystalline and amorphous silicon.
Acute effect of ethanol on renal electrolyte excretion in rats

The purpose of this study was to investigate the renal handling of sodium and potassium in rats during an acute ethanol (ETOH) administration and to relate any observed changes to alterations in renin-aldosterone secretion. Eight male Wistar rats, 7 to 8 weeks of age, were injected intraperitoneally (IP) with 1.0 g/kg body wt. ETOH (15% v/v, 95% ETOH in saline, pH 6.98, osmolality 284 mOsm/kg). Blood ETOH levels were 159 +/- 16 (Mean +/- SEM) and 120 +/- 12 mg/dl, 10 and 30 min after the ETOH injection respectively (p less than 0.05). Control animals were given either an equal volume (1.77 ml/100 g body wt.) of 0.9% saline (n = 6) or 5% dextrose solution (n = 4) with similar pH and osmolality. Following ETOH administration blood pH, urine pH, plasma bicarbonate (HCO3) concentration declined significantly (p less than 0.01) while glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and hematocrit (Hct) remained unchanged (p = 0.1). Mean fractional sodium excretion (FENa), fractional potassium excretion (FEK), and osmolar clearance (Cosm) fell significantly despite an increase in plasma sodium (p less than 0.01), potassium (p less than 0.05) and osmolality concentrations (p less than 0.05). There was no significant change in plasma aldosterone concentration (PA) or plasma renin activity (PRA) following the ETOH administration. No difference in GFR, FENa, FEK, Cosm, blood pH, urine pH, plasma electrolytes, PA, or PRA was observed following the saline or dextrose injections. In conclusion, acute ETOH administration in rats alters renal sodium and potassium excretion independent of changes in GFR, PA, PRA or plasma volume as reflected by Hct.
Abdominal Peripheral Nervous System of the Adult Female House Fly and Its Role in Mating Behavior and Insemination

The abdominal peripheral nervous system of the adult female house fly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae) was studied by using leuco-methylene blue to stain the major abdominal nerves. Paired nerves to each of the 1st 5 abdominal segments were observed to arise from the ventral median abdominal nerve and innervate the spiracular muscles, the lateral and dorsal segmental muscles, and the longitudinal muscles on the surface of the heart. The median abdominal nerve bifurcates in the posterior part of the abdomen, and the 2 branches extend caudally throughout the length of the ovipositor. Branches arising from these 2 main nerves pass to the posterior part of the ovary and the lateral oviducts. Also, these 2 nerves give rise to smaller branches that innervate the common oviduct, vagina, and muscles of the spermathecal ducts. Two larger branches extend from the bifurcations anteriorly along the rectum and innervate the rectal papillae and muscles of the proctodaeum. Considerable variation was observed in the manner in which the segmental nerves arise from the median nerve and in the origin of the fork of the median nerve. Transection of the median abdominal nerve of virgin females caused about 73% of the females to have reduced amounts of spermatozoa in the spermathecae following mating. However, over 80% of the mated females treated in this way copulated a 2nd time.
Delayed-onset facial paralysis after vestibular neurectomy.

Objectives/Hypothesis: Delayed-onset facial paralysis (beginning more than 3 d after the procedure) has been described as a complication of many different types of otological procedures. The incidence of this problem in vestibular neurectomy and the relationship to surgical approach are detailed in the study. Study Design: Retrospective case review. Methods: In the setting of a tertiary referral center, vestibular neurectomy was performed in 70 individuals with disabling vertigo unresponsive to medical therapy who elected vestibular neurectomy. The main outcome measure was incidence of delayed onset facial paralysis. Results: Delayed-onset facial paralysis was significantly more common after the middle fossa (18%) and translabyrinthine (11%) approaches compared with the retrosigmoid approach (0%) Conclusions: Surgical approach influences the incidence of delayed-onset facial paralysis. Measures to prevent this complication such as prophylactic antiviral medication or labyrinthine segment decompression may be considered in middle fossa and translabyrinthine operations.
Integrin Clustering in Two and Three Dimensions

Integrins are transmembrane proteins that allow cells to bind to their external environment. They are the primary regulators of cell–matrix interactions, with direct roles in cell motility and signaling, which in turn regulate numerous physiological processes. Under common experimental conditions, integrins tend to cluster for sturdy and effective binding to extracellular matrix molecules. These clusters often evolve into focal adhesions, which regulate downstream signaling. However, integrin clusters are more pronounced and have longer lifetimes in two-dimensional assays than in more realistic three-dimensional environments. While a number of models and theoretical approaches have focused on integrin binding and diffusion, the reasons for the differences between two- and three-dimensional clustering have remained elusive. In this study, we model an individual cluster attached to a two-dimensional collagen film and attached to collagen fibers of various sizes in three-dimensional matrices. We then discuss...
Evolution of inflorescence architecture in Nymphoides (Menyanthaceae)

a b s t r a c t Species of the aquatic genus Nymphoides have distinct and highly modified inflorescence architectures in which floating leaves support aerial flowers. Three inflorescence types exist in Nymphoides, and these differ by their relative elongation of internodes and the number of flowers per node. We compared organ composition and arrangement among the three inflorescence architecture types in representative Nymphoides species and identified several orders of repeating sympodial modules that had the same positional organ arrangement in all Nymphoides examined. The three inflorescence architecture types were found to differ in development primarily by the relative elongation of internodes and/or expansion of leaves. We determined that inflorescence growth in Nymphoides proceeds by recapitulating at various positions one of three continuation axes: a rhizome, inflorescence, or floral continuation axis, all of which have sympodial, modular components. We established a developmental model that reiterated modular components of the continuation axes, and this model sufficiently reproduced the overall morphologies of all three Nymphoides inflorescence types.
An algorithm for domain decomposition in finite element analysis

A simple and efficient algorithm is described for automatic decomposition of an arbitrary finite element domain into a specified number of subdomains for finite element and substructuring analysis in a multiprocessor computer environment. The algorithm is designed to balance the work loads, to minimize the communication among processors and to minimize the bandwidths of the resulting system of equations. Small- to large-scale finite element models, which have two-node elements (truss, beam element), three-node elements (triangular element) and four-node elements (quadrilateral element), are solved on the Convex computer to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. A FORTRAN computer program is also included.
Regulation of adrenal and hepatic α-tocopherol content by androgens and estrogens

Previous studies demonstrated that alpha-tocopherol concentrations were far greater in adrenal glands and in livers from female rats than in those from males. Studies were done to investigate the role of androgens and estrogens in the regulation of adrenal and hepatic alpha-tocopherol content. In males and females, adrenal concentrations of alpha-tocopherol were approx. 10-fold greater than those in liver and the highest concentrations of alpha-tocopherol were in the crude mitochondrial fractions in both organs. Castration of female rats decreased alpha-tocopherol concentrations in adrenals and in livers. Proportionately similar declines occurred in both organs and in all subcellular fractions. The effects of castration were prevented by estradiol replacement at the time of surgery. Gonadectomy in male rats had effects opposite to those in females, increasing adrenal and hepatic alpha-tocopherol concentrations. Testosterone administration to castrated males prevented the increases in adrenal and hepatic alpha-tocopherol content. Neither castration nor gonadal hormone replacement in either sex had any effect on plasma alpha-tocopherol levels or on cytosolic ascorbic acid concentrations in adrenals or livers. The results indicate a role for estrogens and androgens in the regulation of adrenal and hepatic concentrations of alpha-tocopherol. The opposing effects of androgens and estrogens fully account for the sex differences in tissue alpha-tocopherol levels in rats.
Isotopic fractionation during cellulose synthesis in two mangrove species: Salinity effects

Abstract Carbon, non-exchangeable hydrogen, and oxygen isotope ratios of cellulose of Avicennia germinans and Rhizophora mangle plants hydroponically grown under different salinities (0, 18, 45% sea water, but with irrigation waters having the same isotopic ratios) were measured to determine the possibility of using isotopic ratios of plant tissues as biological recorders of sea level rise. There was a large variability in the δD values of leaf nitrated cellulose between different treatments and even within a single treatment for both A. germinans and R. mangle . Thus, δD values of non-exchangeable hydrogens of cellulose cannot be used as a historical tracer for utilization of ocean water or freshwater by mangroves. In contrast, δ 18 O values of cellulose were not significantly different between different salinity treatments for both mangroves, indicating that δ 18 O of cellulose can be used as a sea water tracer. δ 13 C values of cellulose did not vary directly with salinity as has been observed with other plants. δ 13 C values of cellulose from A. germinans were the lowest for plants growing at 18% sea water, with cellulose from plants growing in 0 and 45% sea water having significantly higher δ 13 C values. δ 13 C values of cellulose from R. mangle were the highest for plants grown in 45% sea water, with plants grown in 0 and 18% sea water having equally lower δ 13 C values.
Protein Kinase C Has Two Different Major Roles in Lattice Compaction Enhanced by Cerebrospinal Fluid From Patients With Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose Compaction of extracellular matrix (ECM) lattices by cultured fibroblasts was accelerated by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The rate of acceleration was significantly related to the clinical grade of vasospasm. However, the mechanism remains unclear. Evidence exists for an important role in cerebral vasospasm for protein kinase C (PKC). The purpose of this study was to help clarify whether PKC has a role in contraction of the ECM. Methods We studied the effects of a myristoylated PKC peptide inhibitor (Myr-Arg-Phe-Ala-Arg-Lys-Gly-Ala-Leu-Arg-Gln-Lys-Asn-Val) (PKC peptide inhibitor), (5-isoquinolinesulfonyl)homopiperazine (HA-1077) (inhibitor of protein kinase A, myosin light-chain kinase, and protein kinase G), 7-deacetyl-6-( N -acetylglycyl)-forskolin (forskolin) (adenyl cyclase activator), and diacylglycerol-lactone (DAG-lactone) (PKC activator) on fibroblast-populated collagen lattice compaction with or without CSF from SAH patients. Four sets of fibroblasts were used: three explanted from skin and one from cerebral artery. Results Moderate and high concentrations of PKC peptide inhibitor inhibited lattice compaction with or without acceleration by CSF. Low concentration of PKC peptide inhibitor enhanced acceleration by CSF but had no effects without CSF. HA-1077 could not inhibit lattice compaction. Forskolin inhibited compaction. DAG-lactone accelerated compaction in early phases. Conclusions In the mechanism of acceleration of contraction of ECM under the influence of CSF, PKC seems to have two different roles. Protein kinase A and myosin light-chain kinase apparently play more minor roles than PKC in the mechanism, but no evidence was found of a role for protein kinase G activation in matrix compaction.
Waterbird Nest Density and Nest Survival in Rice Fields of Southwestern Louisiana

Abstract. Rice fields in southwestern Louisiana provide breeding habitat for several waterbird species; however, little is known about nest density, nest survival and the importance of landscape context of rice fields in determining breeding activity. In 2004, 42 rice fields were searched for nests, and 40 were searched in 2005. Land uses surrounding rice fields, including irrigation canals, trees, crawfish ponds, rice, fallow and soybean fields, were examined to determine influence on nest density and survival. Nest densities were 13.5–16.0 nests/km2 for Purple Gallinules (Porphyrio maitinica), 3.0–13.7 nests/km2 for Fulvous Whistling Ducks (Dendrocygna bicoloi), 2.6–2.8 nests/km2 for Common Moorhens (Gallinula chloropus), 0.3–0.92 nests/km2 for Least Bitterns (Ixobiychus exilisi) and 0–0.6 nests/km2 for Mottled Ducks (Anas fulvigula). Nest survival was 52–79% for Purple Gallinules and 39–43% for Fulvous Whistling Ducks. Apparent nest success of Common Moorhens was 73–75%, 83% for Least Bitterns and 33% ...