cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting children's enjoyment of a frightening film sequence

An experiment examined the factors that contribute to children's enjoyment of frightening mass media, in an effort to extend recent research with adults. The study focused on suspense (indexed by worry and fear) and character liking as mediators of enjoyment. Children at two age levels viewed a scary program that concluded with either a successful resolution of a threat or no resolution. Forewarning of the threat and information about the happy outcome were varied. Predictions were derived from excitation transfer theory and disposition theory, as well as from theory and research on relevant developmental changes. Prior knowledge of the happy outcome reduced liking for the program, but this effect was not mediated by worry or fear. For both age groups, negative affect during the program was associated with marginally greater enjoyment of the resolved ending, but less enjoyment of the unresolved ending. In contrast, negative affect was associated with greater enjoyment of both versions of the program overa...
Irrigation as an historical climate forcing

Irrigation is the single largest anthropogenic water use, a modification of the land surface that significantly affects surface energy budgets, the water cycle, and climate. Irrigation, however, is typically not included in standard historical general circulation model (GCM) simulations along with other anthropogenic and natural forcings. To investigate the importance of irrigation as an anthropogenic climate forcing, we conduct two 5-member ensemble GCM experiments. Both are setup identical to the historical forced (anthropogenic plus natural) scenario used in version 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, but in one experiment we also add water to the land surface using a dataset of historically estimated irrigation rates. Irrigation has a negligible effect on the global average radiative balance at the top of the atmosphere, but causes significant cooling of global average surface air temperatures over land and dampens regional warming trends. This cooling is regionally focused and is especially strong in Western North America, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and Asia. Irrigation enhances cloud cover and precipitation in these same regions, except for summer in parts of Monsoon Asia, where irrigation causes a reduction in monsoon season precipitation. Irrigation cools the surface, reducing upward fluxes of longwave radiation (increasing net longwave), and increases cloud cover, enhancing shortwave reflection (reducing net shortwave). The relative magnitude of these two processes causes regional increases (northern India) or decreases (Central Asia, China) in energy availability at the surface and top of the atmosphere. Despite these changes in net radiation, however, climate responses are due primarily to larger magnitude shifts in the Bowen ratio from sensible to latent heating. Irrigation impacts on temperature, precipitation, and other climate variables are regionally significant, even while other anthropogenic forcings (anthropogenic aerosols, greenhouse gases, etc.) dominate the long term climate evolution in the simulations. To better constrain the magnitude and uncertainties of irrigation-forced climate anomalies, irrigation should therefore be considered as another important anthropogenic climate forcing in the next generation of historical climate simulations and multi-model assessments.
Correlation of Arrhenius behaviors in power and capacity fades with cell impedance and heat generation in cylindrical lithium-ion cells

Abstract A series of cylindrical 18650 lithium-ion cells with an MAG-10|1.2 M LiPF 6 ethylene carbonate (EC):ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) (w:w=3:7)|Li x Ni 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 configuration were made and tested for power-assist hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) applications under various aging conditions of temperature and state-of-charge (SOC). The cells were intermittently characterized for changes in power capability, rate capacity, and impedance as aging progressed. The changes of these properties with temperature, as depicted by Arrhenius equations, were analyzed. We found that the degradation in power and capacity fade seems to relate to the impedance increase in the cell. The degradation follows a multi-stage process. The initial stage of degradation has an activation energy of the order of 50–55 kJ/mol, as derived from power fade and C 1 capacity fade measured at C /1 rate. In addition, microcalorimetry was performed on two separate unaged cells at 80% SOC at various temperatures to measure static heat generation in the cells. We found that the static heat generation has an activation energy of the order of 48–55 kJ/mol, similar to those derived from power and C 1 capacity fade. The correspondence in the magnitude of the activation energy suggests that the power and C 1 capacity fades were related to the changes of the impedance in the cells, most likely via the same fading mechanism. The fading mechanism seemed to be related to the static heat generation of the cell.
Kinetics of the reduction of 4-amino and 4-cyanopyridinechlorocobaloximes by iron(II)

Cobaloximes such as trans[Co(dmgH) 2 (Py-NH 2 )Cl] and trans-[Co(dmgH)2(Py-CN)Cl], where, dmgH = dimethylglyoximato anion, Py-NH 2 = 4-aminopyiridne and Py-CN = 4-cyanopyridine, were prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, UV-VIS, IR and NMR spectroscopy. The kinetics of iron(II) reduction of the complexes were studied spectrophotometrically at 300 nm in 2 % (v/v) DMSO-H 2 O medium at 27±0.1 °C and I = 0,25 M (LiClO 4 ) at various hydrogen ion concentrations in the range 2.5 x 10 -4 to 5.0 x 10 2 M under pseudo-first-order conditions using an excess of the reductant. The inverse dependence of rate on [H + ] suggests an equilibrium between the protonated and unportonated forms of the complexes, the protonated form reacting slower than the unprotonated form. Computation of the data enabled the evaluation of the rate constants for the protonated and unprotonated from of the complexes, leading to an evaluation of the protonation constant for the complexes.
Discovery of a mandelonitrile hydrolase from Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA110 by rational genome mining.

Abstract A mandelonitrile hydrolase bll6402 from Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA110 was predicted by rational genome mining, i.e. combining traditional genome mining with functional analysis of the genetic organization of the putative nitrilase gene within the chromosome of microorganisms. This putative gene was cloned and over-expressed in Escherichia coli , and the encoded protein was purified to give a nitrilase with a molecular mass of about 37 kDa. The molecular weight of the holoenzyme was about 455 kDa, suggesting that nitrilase bll6402 self-aggregated to the active form with native structure being 12 subunits of identical size. This nitrilase was most active toward mandelonitrile with V max and K m for mandelonitrile being 44.7 U/mg and 0.26 mM, respectively. The k cat and overall catalytic efficiency k cat / K m were 27.0 s −1 and 1.04 × 10 5 M −1 s −1 , indicating that nitrilase bll6402 is very active for the hydrolysis of mandelonitrile to mandelic acid. Nitrilase bll6402 also effectively hydrolyzed several mandelonitrile derivatives.
Screening for gestational diabetes: different cut-offs for different ethnicities?

Objective To examine whether screening guidelines for gestational diabetes should be modified based on ethnicity. Study design This is a retrospective cohort study of 14,565 pregnancies screened for gestational diabetes. The primary outcome of interest was the diagnosis of gestational diabetes based on the results of the 100-g glucose tolerance test. A diagnosis was determined if any 2 of the 4 values (fasting or 1-, 2-, or 3-hour postprandial) were at or above 95, 180, 155, or 140 mg/dL, respectively. Values of the 50-g glucose-loading test were examined from 130 mg/dL to 150 mg/dL. The sensitivity, specificity, false-positive rates, and positive predictive values of various glucose-loading test cut-offs were compared among whites, African Americans, Latinas, and Asians. The sensitivities and specificities were compared using receiver-operator characteristic curves. Results Sensitivity and specificity of the glucose-loading test differ by ethnicity. Generally, African Americans achieved the highest sensitivities and specificities over the range examined. To achieve a false-positive rate of 10% for the glucose-loading test, the threshold value would be 133 mg/dL for African Americans, 140 mg/dL for whites, 143 mg/dL for Latinas, and 147 mg/dL for Asians. At the lower glucose-loading test values (130 and 135 mg/dL), Asians exhibited the highest positive predictive values (30.0% and 34.0%), whereas at higher values of the glucose-loading test (145 and 150 mg/dL), African Americans had the highest positive predictive values (46.0% and 51.5%). Throughout the glucose-loading test range, whites had the lowest positive predictive values (P Conclusions To maximize the sensitivity and minimize the false-positive rate of the glucose-loading test, it may be reasonable to consider varying the threshold based on ethnicity. However, modification of glucose-loading test thresholds based on maternal ethnicity merit further study to determine whether improved perinatal outcomes can be achieved.
Precision spectroscopic measurements in few-electron ions

We describe recent precision experiments in fewelectron ions including measurements of the lifetimes of two-photon-emitting levels in Ni26+ and Ni27+, a measurement of the lifetime of the 23S1 level in Br33+ and measurements of the 23S1 + 23P0,1,2 transition energies in B3+.
Comparison of somatic and germ cell models for cytogenetic screening

A variety of in vivo mammalian test models are available for screening of chemicals for mutagenicity at the chromosomal level. These models have been grouped into those focusing on somatic cell effects and those dealing with germ cell effects. An analysis of available literature indicates that 76 compounds have been tested from chromosome effects in both somatic and germ cells. Of these, concordant results (positive-positive or negative-negative) were obtained with 58 compounds. Of the remaining 18 compounds with discordant results, all were positive in somatic cells, but negative in germ cell assays. These results suggest an inherent relative insensitivity of germ cells themselves to mutagenic chemicals. In the context of screening for safety evaluation purposes, this analysis suggests that a negative somatic-cell response can be taken as highly predictive of negative results in a germ cell assessment.
Do syllable-specific tonal probabilities guide lexical access? Evidence from Mandarin, Shanghai and Cantonese speakers

An eye-tracking study investigated how the interaction between syllable frequency and syllable-specific tonal probability guides online lexical access in speakers of mutually unintelligible Chinese dialects with three disparate tonal systems. Mono-dialectal Mandarin speakers, bi-dialectal Shanghai–Mandarin speakers and bi-dialectal Cantonese–Mandarin speakers searched for target Mandarin syllable–tone combinations while their eye movements and mouse clicks were recorded. The results showed dialectal differences in online eye fixation patterns but not in offline mouse responses. For all groups, mouse clicks were fastest for infrequent syllables with most probable tones and slowest for infrequent syllables with least probable tones. In online eye movement responses, only mono-dialectal Mandarin speakers showed an interaction between syllable frequency and tonal probability. Mono-dialectal Mandarin speakers’ fixations were fastest for infrequent syllables with probable tones and slowest for infrequent syllab...
Fast subspace-based system identification

Recently developed subspace-based system identification (4SID) techniques have opened new routes to the identification of multi-input multi-output systems. The 4SID techniques guarantee convergence, and run faster than the statistically efficient prediction error methods without much performance loss. The resulting computational load of the 4SID techniques is O(NM2), where N is the data length and M is the sliding window size. However, the computational burden O(NM2) can become prohibitively large as N and M grow large. Noting that the major bottleneck comes from the QR factorization of an M i? N data matrix and that the existing 4SID techniques do not exploit the structure of the matrices arising in the identification procedure, we propose a new implementation of the existing 4SID, which reduces the computational burden to O(NM) by exploiting the displacement and low-rank structure of the matrices.
SUPPLY CHAIN PROCESS INTEGRATION: A THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

The current study was undertaken to further understanding of supply chain process integration. It is suggested that supply chain integration, the practice of realigning firms' operating structures, should be understood from an internal-external perspective and a process view. Drawing upon four theories—Strategy-Structure-Performance framework, the resource based view of the firm, transaction cost economics, and social network analysis—and combining industry inputs, a theoretical framework of supply chain process integration is developed. It is argued that a firm's strategic priorities are key factors of supply chain process integration. Superior performance is likely to be achieved when necessary supply chain capabilities are developed through supply chain process integration.
7.1: Distinguished Student Paper: Low Voltage BluePhase LCDs with Patterned Electrodes

A low voltage bluephase LCD with patterned electrodes is proposed. By optimizing the protrusion electrode configurations, we have successfully reduced the onstate voltage to ∼10V while keeping a relatively high transmittance. This approach enables bluephase LCDs to be driven by aSi TFTs.
A closer look at the relationships among trait procrastination, neuroticism, and conscientiousness

This study with academically-undecided college students investigated the relationships among trait procrastination and two Big Five personality factors, Neuroticism and Conscientiousness. Results from structural equation modeling analyses comparing two hypothesized mediation models favored a model with Conscientiousness as a mediator over a model with procrastination as a mediator. The Conscientiousness mediator model accounted for 24% of the variance in trait procrastination. Bootstrapping procedures indicated the significance of the mediation effect.
Contributions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, noradrenaline, and neuropeptide Y to local warming-induced cutaneous vasodilatation in men.

Abstract We performed a two-part study to determine the roles of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the vasoconstrictor nerves neurotransmitters noradrenaline (NA) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the cutaneous vasodilator response to local skin warming. Forearm skin sites were instrumented with intradermal microdialysis fibres, local heaters, and laser-Doppler flow (LDF) probes. Sites were locally heated from 34 to 42 °C. LDF was expressed as cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC; LDF/mean arterial pressure). In Part I, we tested whether sympathetic noradrenergic nerves acted via eNOS. In 8 male participants, treatments were as follows: 1) untreated; 2) bretylium tosylate (BT), preventing sympathetic neurotransmitter release; 3) l -NAA to inhibit eNOS; and 4) combined BT + l -NAA. At treated sites, the initial peak response was markedly reduced, and the plateau phase response to 35 min of local warming was also reduced (P 0.05). In Part II, we tested whether NA and NPY were involved in the vasodilator response to local warming. In Part IIa, treatments were: 1) untreated; 2) propranolol and yohimbine to antagonize α- and β-receptors; 3) l -NAA; and 4) combined propranolol, yohimbine, and l -NAA. In Part IIb, conditions were: 1) untreated; 2) BIBP to antagonize Y1-receptors; 3) l -NAA; and 4) combined BIBP and l -NAA. All treatments caused a reduction in the initial peak and plateau responses to local skin warming (P
Chemosensitivity of hypophysiotropic neurons to the microelectrophoresis of biogenic amines

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), acetylcholine (ACh) and glutamate (Glut) when applied in the immediate vicinity and in minute quantities to single neurons within the preoptic-hypothalamic complex via microelectrophoresis, could modulate their electrical activity. The action of these putative neurotransmitters on medial-preoptic (MPO) and arcuate-ventromedial (ARC-VM) neurons was studied in the urethane anesthetized, ovariectomized female rat. Multi-barrelled glass microelectrodes were used for extracellular recording and for microelectrophoresis of the putative transmitters. Four specific neuron types were identified by median eminence electrical stimulation; namely, antidromically identified (AI) MPO neurons, uninvaded MPO neurons, AI ARC-VM neurons and uninvaded ARC-VM neurons. The major findings based on responsive neurons (i.e., those neurons which reacted to the chemical application by an increase or decrease in spontaneous activity) are summarized. The data demonstrate that NE had a pronounced excitatory effect on uninvaded and AI ARC-VM neurons and an inhibitory influence on AI MPO neurons. The influence of dopamine was not as clearly defined, although there was a slight trend towards excitation in uninvaded MPO neurons and inhibition in AI MPO neurons. Results based on the testing with 5-HT showed it to have an inhibitory action on uninvaded MPO neurons. Furthermore, ACh and Glut were shown to have an excitatory action on the majority of responsive neurons tested. The remaining neurons tested with either NE, DA or 5-HT displayed a similar number of excitatory and inhibitory responses. The findings obtained provide positive support for a catecholaminergic and cholinergic regulation or neurons projecting towards the median eminence which are presumably involved in pituitary function.
Reaction dependent extraction of copper and nickel using hollow fibers

Abstract The competitive extraction of copper and nickel with kerosene solutions of HDEHP [di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid] has been studied in a hollow fiber membrane module. The data showed that the reaction changes from first order to second order as the extraction proceeds. The first-order behavior largely results from mass transfer resistances in the membrane and in the aqueous boundary layer. The second-order reaction, occurring in dilute solution, is a consequence of an interfacial reaction. The results have implications for other metals.
From Profiles to Pathways and Roots to Routes: Perspectives from Psychology on Radicalization into Terrorism

Attempts to profile terrorists have failed resoundingly, leaving behind a poor (and unfair) impression of the potential for a sound psychological contribution to understanding the terrorist. However, recent work in the area has delivered promising and exciting starting points for a conceptual development in understanding the psychological process across all levels of terrorist involvement. Involvement in terrorism is a complex psychosocial process that comprises at least three seemingly distinct phases: becoming involved, being involved—synonymous with engaging in unambiguous terrorist activity—and disengaging (which may or may not result in subsequent de-radicalization). A critical implication of these distinctions is the recognition that each of them may contain unique, or phase-specific, implications for counterterrorism. An argument is made for greater consideration of the disengagement phase with a clearer role for psychological research to inform and enhance practical counterterrorism operations.
Aural cholesteatoma in twenty dogs.

Objective— To determine the clinical course in dogs with aural cholesteatoma. Study Design— Case series. Animals— Dogs (n=20) with aural cholesteatoma. Methods— Case review (1998–2007). Results— Twenty dogs were identified. Clinical signs other than those of chronic otitis externa included head tilt (6 dogs), unilateral facial palsy (4), pain on opening or inability to open the mouth (4), and ataxia (3). Computed tomography (CT) was performed in 19 dogs, abnormalities included osteoproliferation (13 dogs), lysis of the bulla (12), expansion of the bulla (11), bone lysis in the squamous or petrosal portion of the temporal bone (4) and enlargement of associated lymph nodes (7). Nineteen dogs had total ear canal ablation–lateral bulla osteotomy or ventral bulla osteotomy with the intent to cure; 9 dogs had no further signs of middle ear disease whereas 10 had persistent or recurrent clinical signs. Risk factors for recurrence after surgery were inability to open the mouth or neurologic signs on admission and lysis of any portion of the temporal bone on CT imaging. Dogs admitted with neurologic signs or inability to open the mouth had a median survival of 16 months. Conclusions— Early surgical treatment of aural cholesteatoma may be curative. Recurrence after surgery is associated with advanced disease, typically indicated by inability to open the jaw, neurologic disease, or bone lysis on CT imaging. Clinical Relevance— Presence of aural cholesteatoma may affect the prognosis for successful surgical treatment of middle ear disease.
Effect of perfusion flow rate on tissue oxygenation in newborn piglets during cardiopulmonary bypass

Abstract Background Our knowledge of the best perfusion flow rate to use during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in order to maintain tissue oxygenation remains incomplete. The present study examined the effects of perfusion flow rate and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) during normothermic CPB on oxygenation in several organ tissues of newborn piglets. Methods The experiments were performed on 12 newborn piglets: 6 with PDA ligation (PDA-L), and 6 without PDA ligation (PDA-NL). CPB was performed through the chest at 37°C. During CPB, the flow rate was changed at 15-minute intervals, ranging from 100 to 250 ml/kg/min. Tissue oxygenation was measured by quenching of phosphorescence. Results For the PDA-L group, oxygen in the brain did not change significantly with changes in flow rate. In contrast, for the PDA-NL group, oxygen was dependent upon the flow rate. Statistically significant decreases in cortical oxygen were observed with flow rates below 175 ml/kg/min. Within the myocardium, liver, and intestine, there were no significant differences in the oxygen levels between the PDA-L and PDA-NL groups. In these tissues, the oxygen decreased significantly as the flow rate decreased below 150 ml/kg/min, 125 ml/kg/min, and 175 ml/kg/min, respectively. Oxygen pressure in skeletal muscle was not dependent on either PDA ligation or flow rate. Conclusions In newborn piglets undergoing CPB, the presence of a PDA results in reduced tissue oxygenation to the brain but not to other organs. In general, perfusion flow rates of 175 ml/kg/min or greater are required in order to maintain normal oxygenation of all organs except muscle.
Complementary pair-density-wave and d -wave-checkerboard orderings in high-temperature superconductors

The competing orders in the particle-particle (P-P) channel and the particle-hole (P-H) channel have been proposed separately to explain the pseudogap physics in cuprates. By solving the Bogoliubov-de Gennes equation self-consistently, we show that there is a general complementary connection between the $d$-wave-checkerboard (DWCB) order in the P-H channel and the pair-density-wave (PDW) order in the P-P channel. A small pair density localization generates DWCB and PDW orders simultaneously. The result suggests that suppressing superconductivity locally or globally through phase fluctuation should induce both orders in underdoped cuprates. The presence of both DWCB and PDW orders with $4a\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}4a$ periodicity can explain the checkerboard modulation observed in Fourier transform scanning tunneling spectroscopies from scanning tunneling microscopy and the puzzling dichotomy between the nodal and antinodal regions as well as the characteristic features such as nondispersive Fermi arc in the pseudogap state.
Effects of tetrazole derivatives on [3H]diazepam binding in vitro: Correlation with convulsant potency

A series of 8 tetrazole derivatives which differ more than one hundred-fold in their potencies as convulsants were tested for their abilities to inhibit [3H]diazepam binding to benzodiazepine receptors in vitro. The concentrations of drug necessary to inhibit 50% of specifically bound [3H]diazepam ranges from 18 μM for undecamethylenetetrazole to 20 mM for trimethylenetetrazole. A comparison of the minimum convulsive doses for the 8 tetrazole derivatives tested with their relative potencies in displacing [3H]diazepam binding in vitro revealed a highly significant correlation (r=0.98, P<0.001). In contrast, several representative tetrazole derivatives were found to have no inhibitory effects on β-adrenergic, α-adrenergic or muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the same membrane preparation. These results suggest that pentamethylenetetrazole and related tetrazole derivatives may elicit their convulsant effects by interaction with the benzodiazepine receptor.
Phase behavior of the reactants, products and catalysts involved in the allylic epoxidation of trans-2-Hexen-1-ol to (2R,3R)-(+)-3-Propyloxiranemethanol in high pressure carbon dioxide

Abstract The possible phase behavior of a reaction mixture is an important consideration when evaluating CO 2 as an alternative solvent to replace traditional organic compounds. To address this issue we present phase equilibrium measurements and modeling of primarily binary mixtures with CO 2 of the reactants, products and catalysts present in the allylic epoxidation of trans -2-hexen-1-ol to (2R,3R)-(+)-3-propyloxiranemethanol. This reaction occurs with very high enantiomeric selectivity in liquid CO 2 , yields a high value product, and would normally be carried out in an organic solvent like benzene. Thus, it is a promising candidate for CO 2 solvent replacement. The systems studied are trans -2-hexen-1-ol-CO 2 , tert -butyl hydroperoxide (in decane)-CO 2 , (2R,3R)-(+)-3-propyloxiranemethanol-CO 2 , tert -butyl alcohol-CO 2 , diisopropyl L-tartrate-CO 2 , vanadium(V)tri- i -propoxy oxide-CO 2 and titanium(IV) isopropoxide-CO 2 . The compositions of the liquid phases were determined as a function of pressure, at temperatures between 303.15 and 323.15 K and pressures between 31.5 and 110.2 bar. Liquid/liquid immiscibility regions were found for the trans -2-hexen-1-ol-CO 2 and (2R,3R)-(+)-3-propyloxiranemethanol-CO 2 binaries. This region is located between 310.9 K (the l ower c ritical e nd p oint) and 315.3 K (a type-k point) and the corresponding pressures of 79.5 and 86.7 bar for trans -2-hexen-1-ol-CO 2 . The (2R,3R)-(+)-3-propyloxiranemethanol-CO 2 liquid/liquid immiscibility region ranges from 315.1 K (a type-k point) to below 293.7 K, at the corresponding pressures of 86.1 to 55.8 bar. All of the other binaries exhibited simple vapor/liquid equilibrium (VLE). Modeling with the Peng-Robinson equation of state (PREOS) gave reasonably good results for the two phase regions for all of the systems, using just one temperature-independent parameter for each binary system. The PREOS did predict LLV three phase regions for the trans -2-hexen-1-ol-CO 2 and (2R,3R)-(+)-3-propyloxiranemethanol-CO 2 binaries, but generally at conditions different from those observed experimentally. Finally, we present some preliminary predictions of the multicomponent phase equilibria based on the binary measurements and models.
Spatial Scaling of Prevalence and Population Variation in Three Grassland Sparrows

Abstract. Henslow's Sparrows (Ammodramus henslowii) are distributed in tallgrass prairies in central North America; however, this species is restricted further to specific habitats within these prairies—large expanses with relatively little woody vegetation but an accumulation of standing grasses and forbs, conditions that result from infrequent disturbances by fire, mowing, or grazing. Henslow's Sparrows have been documented to be unpredictable at breeding sites from year to year, but studies to date have considered only local spatial scales. We compared resettlement behavior (prevalence of occurrence and variation in abundance) of Henslow's Sparrows to that of two other grassland sparrows, Grasshopper Sparrows (A. savannarum) and Savannah Sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis), across multiple spatial resolutions. In Henslow's Sparrows, prevalence was lower and variation in abundance was greater than in the other two species. Indeed, Henslow's Sparrows do not occur consistently at extents of less than 120...
The interacting effects of land use change, climate change and suppression of natural disturbances on landscape forest structure in the Swiss Alps

Ecosystems are being modified by a multiplicity of interacting natural and anthropogenic factors. The most important of these factors include changes in land use, changes in climate, and alterations of disturbance regimes. Many studies have considered these factors separately; however, these factors do not act in isolation, but rather interact to affect ecosystem structure and function. In the present study, we analyzed the interacting effects of abandonment of agricultural practices, increases in temperature, and anthropogenic suppression of the avalanche regime on landscape forest structure (percent canopy cover) in the Davos region of the Swiss Alps over the past 45 years. Compared to 1954, the Davos region is now characterized by greater forest cover and lower landscape heterogeneity. The greatest increases in forest structural stage occurred in areas in which land use changed from agricultural to non-agricultural, that were the closest to formerly active avalanche tracks, and in which the percentage change in number of growing degree days (GDD) was high. Change in land use was the most important variable contributing to changes in landscape forest structure, followed by changes in the disturbance regime, then changes in GDD. There also exist clear interactions among these variables, which indicate, for example, that the effects of the suppression of disturbances and changes in climate are contingent on the more immediate effects of changes in land use. Understanding the relative importance of, and interactions among, changes in land use, climate, and disturbances can contribute to an improved understanding of ecosystem dynamics and to better management decisions.
An incomplete Lipschitz-Hankel integral of K0

On etudie K e0 (a,z)≡∫ 0 z exp(at)•K 0 (t)dt, ou K est la fonction de MacDonald ou fonction de Bessel d'argument imaginaire. on montre que K e0 (a,z) peut s'ecrire sous forme close en termes de fonctions elementaires, K 0 , K 1 et des fonctions hypergeometriques doubles de Kampe de Feriet
Photoemission Studies of the Oxidation of Strontium

The oxidation of strontium has been studied by ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. Minimal oxidation produces a relatively sharp peak (width about 0.5 eV) in the energy distribution curves originating from a state 5.0 eV below the Fermi level; this state is seen to broaden strongly into a band as the ${\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{-}}$ concentration increases and ${\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{-}}$-${\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{-}}$ overlap occurs. The metallic component of the emission appears to originate from a thin layer near the surface and is little affected by the oxidation.
Dissociative attachment from monochlorinated hydrocarbons in the gas phase

Abstract Gas phase measurements of the dissociative attachment (DA) process provide fundamental data useful for the interpretation of studies incorporating molecules on surfaces and in films. In this report, we review recent DA studies in a series of monochlorohydrocarbons to examine the role of the hydrocarbon framework, or “substrate”, to which the Cl is attached. We find that the peak cross section decreases roughly exponentially as the vertical attachment energy to form the temporary negative ion increases. We consider also the problem of measuring the small cross section of methyl chloride and show that observation of the temperature dependence of the process provides information about the cross section. We discuss briefly the recent theoretical studies of this process in methyl chloride. Finally, we examine the effect of placing a region of unsaturation, i.e., a double bond, in a location remote from the CCl bond and show that this enhances the DA cross section, providing evidence for intramolecular transfer of the electron.
Chemical changes affecting dissolved calcium during the bacterial decomposition of fish and clams in sea water

Abstract Bacterial decomposition in the laboratory of butterfish, smelts, and Mya clams, and Venus clams in the presence of CaCO3, over periods ranging from 65 to 250 days, results in a slow rise in the pH of sea water in contact with the decaying organisms. The rise in pH is due to the formation of ammonia and other nitrogenous bases from the breakdown of proteins and other nitrogen-containing biochemical compounds. In the case of butterfish and smelts the rise in pH brings about the precipitation of dissolved calcium as calcium fatty acid salts or soaps in the carbon range 14C-18C. No CaCO3 is formed. In the case of clams dissolved calcium is precipitated during pH rise only where there is extensive bacterial sulfate reduction; ammonia generation in itself does not bring about precipitation. Large amounts of acids other than carbonic acid are generated during decomposition of Venus clams. In the absence of CaCO3 this results in a very low pH which does not subsequently rise.
WHO FCTC article 5.3: promise but little progress

Six years after the Third Session of the Conference of the Parties to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) adopted strong implementation guidelines for the treaty's Article 5.3,1 that article's promise for protecting tobacco control policymaking from tobacco industry interference remains almost entirely unrealised. While some government agencies, mostly health-focused, have instituted policies about contact with industry representatives, no government has fully publicised and implemented policies throughout government to insulate the policymaking process from tobacco company shenanigans. In fact, in some cases governments seem to be moving backward as they develop new ‘partnerships’ with tobacco companies around illicit trade issues, particularly during negotiations for and adoption in November 2012 of the WHO FCTC Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products. The protocol has specific language about respecting implementation of Article 5.3 and explicitly cautions that obligations under the protocol should not be performed by or delegated to the tobacco industry.2 For examples of backward-facing initiatives, in Azerbaijan, Japan Tobacco International organised a seminar for the States Customs Committee to discuss progress in addressing cigarette smuggling.3 In Mali, BAT and Imperial tobacco companies are jointly supporting an awareness campaign on illicit trade with the National Directorate of Trade & Competition4; in Namibia, the Ministry of Finance signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tobacco Institute of …
Severe Gammaherpesvirus-Induced Pneumonitis and Fibrosis in Syngeneic Bone Marrow Transplant Mice Is Related to Effects of Transforming Growth Factor-β

Pulmonary infections and pneumonitis occur frequently after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Using a syngeneic mouse model of bone marrow transplantation (BMT), we have previously demonstrated that BMT mice are more susceptible to acute gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) replication at day 7 after infection. By day 21, the virus is latent in lungs of BMT and control mice, and there is no difference in viral load. Despite similar latent viral load, BMT mice develop severe pneumonitis associated with reduced oxygen saturation, fibrosis, peripheral inflammation, hyaline membranes, and foamy alveolar macrophages, a phenotype that persists for 7 weeks after infection. BMT mice demonstrate increased bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells, and this population is enriched in neutrophils and T cells. Alternatively, activated macrophages appear earlier than do classically activated macrophages. BAL fluid from BMT mice at day 21 after infection contains increased levels of hydrogen peroxide, nitrite, and transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β). Mice expressing the dominant-negative transgene dn-TGFβRII in multiple cell types were used as BMT donors. BMT mice with T-cell dnTGFβRII are largely protected from the pneumonitis phenotype, whereas mice with CD11c-dnTGFβRII BMT mice are only modestly protected from pneumonitis. Protection in BMT mice with T-cell dnTGFβRII is associated with decreased TGF-β derived from parenchymal cells in the BAL fluid, lower nitrite levels, and reduced apoptosis, whereas alternatively activated macrophage markers are unchanged.
Optical determination of ionophore diffusion coefficients in plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) sensing films

Abstract The knowledge of accurate diffusion coefficients of electrically neutral ionophores in solvent polymeric membranes is important in view of understanding and optimizing important sensor characteristics of ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) and their corresponding optical sensors. A spectroscopic imaging technique is introduced here to determine the diffusion coefficient of the chromoionophore (N,N-diethyl-5-(octadecanoylimino)-5H-benzo[a]phenoxazine-9-amine, ETH 5294) in solvent polymeric membranes with different types of plasticizers and varying polymer–plasticizer ratio. This method is based on following the changes in the absorbance profiles of the chromoionophore as a function of space and time. The desired membrane composition is solvent cast onto a glass slide and placed under a microscope objective. The membrane is then exposed to light from a mercury arc lamp which photobleaches the dye in a circular area, providing an interface from which the time rate of absorbance change is studied. Spectral images are acquired over fixed time intervals with a microscope equipped with a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera providing 0.41 μm nominal resolution. Two plasticizers, ortho-nitrophenyl octyl ether (o-NPOE) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate (DOS), are examined in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) by varying the ratio of polymer to plasticizer content and measuring the diffusion coefficient of the chromoionophore. Corresponding membrane compositions containing 10 wt.% of an inert lipophilic salt (ETH 500) are also examined. Near linear relationships between the logarithmic diffusion coefficients and the PVC content are observed that obey the following relationships: log D=−6.17 –0.0459 wt.% PVC (for PVC–DOS), log D=−6.46 –0.0468 wt.% PVC (for PVC–DOS–ETH 500), log D=−5.89 –0.0508 wt.% PVC (for PVC–NPOE), log D=−6.22 –0.0473 wt.% PVC (for PVC–NPOE–ETH 500).
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: From Genetics and Biochemistry to Clinical Practice, Part 2

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) refers to a group of genetic disorders with defects in the synthesis of cortisol. The synthesis of other steroids such as mineralocorticoids and adrenal/ gonadal sex steroids may also be affected. The clinical presentation of the various forms of CAH depend on the following: (1) the affected enzyme, (2) the residual enzymatic activity, (3) the physiologic consequences of deficiencies of the end-products and excess of precursors. The second part of this two-part review discusses the diagnosis and the management of CAH. Although methods for the diagnosis of CAH have not changed over the past few years, new therapeutic approaches are changing the management of CAH. In particular, new drugs and new drug combinations are being tested and old dogmas are being questioned. Early diagnosis, careful discussion with family members of newborns with CAH during the early decision-making process, and close management will decrease the mortality rate and improve the long-term psychological/physical outcome of these children.
Quantifying the Impact of Layout on Productivity: An Analysis from Robotic-Cell Manufacturing

Although the impact of layout on the productivity of manufacturing systems is well recognized, a quantification of this impact is an issue that is often ignored or crudely approximated in practice. When evaluating competing layouts for a manufacturing system, the trade-off between their relative benefits and their relative costs underlines the need for a reasonably accurate comparison of the productivity offered by these potential layouts. In this paper, we argue for this approach by comparing the productivity of two well-known layouts in robotic-cell manufacturing: circular and linear. We consider the problem of optimizing throughput in single-gripper, bufferless robotic cells that produce identical parts under the free-pickup criterion and the additive-travel-time metric. For cells with a circular layout, we show that the problem of finding an optimal 1-unit cycle is NP-hard. Our main algorithmic result is a polynomial-time 5/3-approximation algorithm for this problem. We then demonstrate that our algorithm provides near-optimal solutions by compiling its performance on an extensive test bed of practically-relevant instances. Finally, we use the algorithm to assess the increase in throughput for cells with a circular layout over those with a linear layout. We show that a circular layout offers a significant improvement in productivity and demonstrate the robustness of this improvement by examining the sensitivity with respect to changes in the design parameters of the robotic cell. Thus, our work provides operations managers with a tool to trade off the resulting increase in revenue with the additional cost of acquiring and maintaining a robot that can exploit a circular layout.
Understanding How Opioids Contribute to Reward and Analgesia

Opioids acting at the mu opioid (MOP) receptor produce powerful analgesia. They also produce an intensely rewarding effect that can lead to addiction. The analgesic effect of MOP receptor agonists derives from a direct inhibitory effect on pain transmission at the spinal-cord level and through activation of a descending pain-modulatory pathway. The rewarding effect of MOP agonists is the result of their actions in the mesostriatal dopamine pathway classically associated with both natural and drug rewards. Both the analgesic and rewarding effect of MOP agonists are best understood in the context of decision making under conditions of conflict. Pain is one of many competing motivational states, and endogenous opioids suppress responses to noxious stimuli in the presence of conflicting motivations, such as hunger or a threatening predator. When a food reward is available, MOP agonists microinjected into the mesostriatal circuit promote its consumption, while concomitantly suppressing responses to noxious stimulation. The mesostriatal “reward” circuit, thus, appears to perform a function critical to decision making and can either amplify or suppress responses to noxious stimuli.
Metal-nonmetal transitions and critical phenomena in metal-molten salt and metal-ammonia solutions

Abstract The conductivities of metal-moltem salt and metal-ammonia solutions have been calculated in the strong-scattering regime using quantum percolation theory. Alkali-alkali halide systems are well described by including a high degree of local order and nearest neighbor interactions. To explain results in alkali-ammonia solutions, it is necessary to include longer range interactions than those in molten salts. The relations of the M-NM transitions in these systems to each other and to critical phenomena are discussed.
Reworking of Cretaceous dinosaurs into Paleocene channel, deposits, upper Hell Creek Formation, Montana

Dinosaur teeth from Paleocene channel fills have been interpreted as indicating dinosaur survival into the Paleocene. However, enormous potential for reworking exists because these records are restricted to large channel fills that are deeply incised into Cretaceous strata. Identification of reworked fossils is usually equivocal. This problem is illustrated by the Black Spring Coulee channel fill, a dinosaur-bearing Paleocene deposit in the upper Hell Creek Formation of eastern Montana. In this example, the reworked nature of well-preserved dinosaur bones is apparent only after detailed sedimentological and palynological analysis. Because of the potential for reworking, dinosaur remains derived from Paleocene fluvial deposits should not be assigned a Paleocene age unless they (1) are found in floodplain deposits, (2) are articulated, (3) are in channels that do not incise Cretaceous strata, or (4) are demonstrably reworked from Paleocene deposits. To date, reports of "Paleocene" dinosaurs do not fulfill any of these criteria. Thus, the proposal that dinosaurs persisted into the Paleocene remains unsubstantiated.
Motion Planning in Obstacle Rich Environments

In this paper we present a multi-layer approach for motion planning in obstacle rich environments.The approach is built on the principle of separation of concern which partitions the motion planning problem into multiple independent layers. This enables design space exploration at each layer. We partition the motion planning algorithm into a roadmap layer and an optimal control layer. Elements of computational geometry are used to process the obstacle rich environment and generate a set of convex feasible regions, which is then used by the optimal control layer to generate trajectories while satisfying dynamics of the vehicle. The roadmap layer ignores the dynamics of the system, and plans paths at a global level using coarse representation of the environment. The optimal control layer ignores the complexity of the environment and plans paths at a mid-level using fine representation of the dynamics and the environment. In this manner a separation of concern is achieved. This decomposition enables computationally tractable methods to be developed for addressing motion planning in complex environments.
Neural network based constitutive model for elastomeric foams

Abstract Elastomeric foam materials find wide applications for their excellent energy absorption properties. The mechanical property of elastomeric foams is highly nonlinear and it is essential to implement mathematical constitutive models capable of accurate representation of the stress–strain responses of foams. A novel constitutive modeling method of defining hyperfoam strain energy function by a neural network is presented in this work. The architecture of the artificial neural network is described. The calculation of the strain energy and its derivatives by neural network is explained in detail. The preparation of the neural network training data from foam test data is described. Curve fitting results are given to show the effectiveness and accuracy of the neural network approach. A neural network based elastomeric foam constitutive model is implemented in simulation of a plane-strain foam indentation process to demonstrate the application and efficiency of the neural network approach in finite element analysis. Results indicate that the neural network model provides a better representation of the test data than the commonly used Hyperfoam model.