cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Depressive Symptoms among Rural "Left-Behind" Older Adults: A Test of the High Outmigration Penalty Hypothesis

Objectives We investigated whether there was a "high outmigration penalty" for psychological health among older adults in rural China by assessing two potential community stressors associated with major sociodemographic changes in the community - increased outmigration and older adult density. We also investigated whether disparities in community economic conditions moderated the association between community stressors and depressive symptoms. Methods We employed three waves of data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011-2015), using multilevel negative binomial models to address our research questions. Results Our results supported the "high outmigration penalty" hypothesis. Older adults living in low-income rural communities may experience an aggravated mental health penalty compared to those living in high-income rural communities. Higher older adult density was also associated with more depressive symptoms but only in less wealthy communities. Community differences in economic conditions were key factors buffering the high outmigration disadvantage associated with the psychological health of older Chinese adults. Discussion Rural outmigration may have deepened existing inter-community health disparities among older adults. Policies should be developed to address community-level factors negatively associated with the well-being of older Chinese adults living in high outmigration and less wealthy rural communities.
Without Centering Race, Identity, and Indigeneity, Climate Responses Miss the Mark

In this essay, I argue that it is time we put an end to the epistemic silences in predominant climate change discourses, which erase and ignore the agency, knowledge, and experiences of non-Western, non-White peoples, and Indigenous communities. Effectively responding to the immense challenges posed by climate change requires a climate justice approach that centers the voices and experience of those most vulnerable. Foregrounding these voices and experiences, including those relating to traditional ecological knowledge, will serve not only to better understand and address the challenges raised by climate change, but also to end the “cognitive annihilation” of Indigenous heritages and world-views. It is simply not enough to focus only on the economic and scientific issues raised by climate change, without paying attention to those relating to race, identity, and indigeneity. To make that claim, I examine three major approaches to thinking about climate change: sustainable development; social justice cosmopolitanism; and post-development. A comparative analysis reveals significant variation in the ways these approaches exclude the viewpoints of vulnerable communities. Furthermore, these approaches remain largely isolated from one another, which makes coordinating effective climate-change action an even greater challenge. In contrast, climate justice theorists, practitioners, and activists acknowledge race, gender, identity, and Indigeneity; accordingly, they address the limits of development and market orthodoxy in the aforementioned approaches, and also highlight the “issues and concerns that arise from the intersection of climate change with race, poverty, and preexisting environmental risks.” These aspects of climate justice are critical because they make visible the most urgent impacts of climate change that have so far been peripheral in policy discussions that are dominated by scientific and economic considerations. Ultimately, I make the case that climate justice is by no means a settled and uncontested concept, but more than any of the aforementioned approaches, it opens up climate change discussions to a broader set of considerations and should be embraced alongside the predominant economic and scientific approaches that currently dominate discussions on climate change.
Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease.

The clinical pathologic syndrome of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is usually a sequela of bone marrow transplantation. This disorder occurs as a result of recognition by engrafted donor-derived lymphocytes of foreign recipient transplantation antigens. GVHD may also result from engraftment of lymphocytes from other sources, including (1) transfusion of lymphocytes containing blood components, (2) transplacental maternal fetal transfusion, and (3) passive transfer of lymphocytes in solid organ transplantation. The recipients are usually severely immunodeficient and thus incapable of rejecting the transfused lymphocytes. This syndrome may, however, also develop in immunologically competent patients receiving blood products from individuals with histocompatibility antigens not recognized as foreign. 58 refs.
Mindfulness- and Acceptance-Based Interventions for Symptom Reduction in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Objective To examine the effects of mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions (MABIs) on reducing symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Data Sources A comprehensive search was conducted within the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SCOPUS databases for articles published from inception to July 3, 2020. Study Selection Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if MABIs were provided to individuals with MS exclusively, with reported pre-and posttest results in symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, fatigue, or pain. Data Extraction Characteristics of the included RCTs and data for meta-analysis were extracted. The quality of the included RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. Data Synthesis A random effects model with the inverse variance method was used with effect size reported as standardized mean difference. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Results Twenty-three RCTs met the eligibility criteria. Meta-analyses found large effects of MABIs on reducing depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and pain, as well as a moderate effect of MABIs on reducing fatigue at the immediate posttest. Large effects of MABIs on reducing depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress at follow-up were also found, whereas a moderate effect on reducing fatigue was found at follow-up. There was no significant effect of MABIs on reducing pain at follow-up. Conclusions Fewer studies were included in meta-analyses for pain at the immediate posttest and follow-up and stress and fatigue at follow-up. The overall risk of bias was unclear. Future high-quality studies with follow-up evaluations are needed to support effects of MABIs on reducing symptoms in individuals with MS and examine intervention features that increase and maintain effects.
Clinicians’ perspectives on strategies to improve cross-institutional collaboration and coordination of pancreatic cancer care for rural patients.

e13532Background: Rural pancreatic cancer patients often lack access to high-volume pancreatic cancer specialists. This lack of access can result in fragmented cancer care—when patients receive car...
Growth Modeling for Quantitative, Spatially Resolved Geographic Atrophy Lesion Kinetics.

Purpose To demonstrate the applicability of a growth modeling framework for quantifying spatial variations in geographic atrophy (GA) lesion kinetics. Methods Thirty-eight eyes from 27 patients with GA secondary to age-related macular degeneration were imaged with a commercial swept source optical coherence tomography instrument at two visits separated by 1 year. Local GA growth rates were computed at 6-µm intervals along each lesion margin using a previously described growth model. Corresponding margin eccentricities, margin angles, and growth angles were also computed. The average GA growth rates conditioned on margin eccentricity, margin angle, growth angle, and fundus position were estimated via kernel regression. Results A total of 88,356 GA margin points were analyzed. The average GA growth rates exhibited a hill-shaped dependency on eccentricity, being highest in the 0.5 mm to 1.6 mm range and lower on either side of that range. Average growth rates were also found to be higher for growth trajectories oriented away from (smaller growth angle), rather than toward (larger growth angle), the foveal center. The dependency of average growth rate on margin angle was less pronounced, although lesion segments in the superior and nasal aspects tended to grow faster. Conclusions Our proposed growth modeling framework seems to be well-suited for generating accurate, spatially resolved GA growth rate atlases and should be confirmed on larger datasets. Translational Relevance Our proposed growth modeling framework may enable more accurate measurements of spatial variations in GA growth rates.
Versatile micro-fabricated mirrors with finesse >700,000

We introduce a micro-fabrication technique for high-finesse optical mirrors based on reflow and smooth reactive ion etch. These mirrors support >700,000 finesse with surface losses constrained to ~1.2 ppm.
Stromal barriers and strategies for the delivery of nanomedicine to desmoplastic tumors

Nanoparticle based delivery formulations have become a leading delivery strategy for cancer imaging and therapy. The success of nanoparticle-based therapy relies heavily on their ability to utilize the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and active targeting moieties to their advantage. However, these methods often fail to enable a uniform NP distribution across the tumor, and lead to insufficient local concentrations of drug. Oftentimes, this heterogeneous drug distribution is one of the primary reasons for suboptimal treatment efficacy in NP delivery platforms. Herein, we seek to examine the biophysical causes of heterogeneous NP distribution in stroma-rich desmoplastic tumors; namely the abnormal tumor vasculature, deregulated extracellular matrix and high interstitial hypertension associated with these tumors. It is suggested that these factors help explain the discrepancy between promising outlooks for many NP formulations in preclinical studies, but suboptimal clinical outcomes for most FDA approved nanoformulations. Furthermore, examination into the role of the physicochemical properties of NPs on successful drug delivery was conducted in this review. In light of the many formidable barriers against successful NP drug delivery, we provided possible approaches to mitigate delivery issues from the perspective of stromal remodeling and NP design. In all, this review seeks to provide guidelines for optimizing nanoparticle-based cancer drug delivery through both modified nanoparticle design and alleviation of biological barriers to successful therapy.
An Atomistic Description of Dealloying Porosity Evolution, the Critical Potential, and Rate-Limiting Behavior

We describe the microscopic details of porosity formation during dealloying as illuminated by a kinetic Monte Carlo model incorporating site coordination-dependent surface diffusion of all alloy components, and site coordination-dependent dissolution of the less-noble atoms. Our simulation model reproduces the entire range of phenomena associated with selective dissolution. These phenomena include composition and geometric restrictions on dealloying (parting limits), a composition-dependent critical potential, a passivation regime, a regime of steady-state dissolution flux, and porosity formation. We find that an intrinsic critical potential exists as a well-defined threshold potential separating surface passivation and porosity formation behaviors, but this intrinsic critical potential typically sits at values well below the experimental measurements of the empirical critical potential. Finally, by detailed examination of the temperature dependence of the dissolution flux, and also of the types of surface sites contributing to the dissolution flux, we predict that the binding energy of a terrace atom may be straightforwardly extracted from analysis of experimental polarization curves.
Intel's Formal Verification Experience on the Willamette Development

In some ways, microprocessor design quality has improved tremendously since the’ 70’s and’ 80’s. It was not uncommon in those days to have to respin silicon five or ten times before the device exhibited even basic functionality. Microprocessors were designed by circuit designers directly into schematics, with little pre-silicon functional testing. In the late’ 80’s, register transfer level (RTL) descriptions of CPUs, such as the Intel®486, processor were written, allowing useful pre-silicon validation to be performed. This validation was primarily black-box assembly tests written by humans, and it worked because the CPUs were simple designs that could be controlled and observed directly from such tests. Later CPUs required much more intensive pre-silicon efforts, including random code testing and massive amounts of simulation cycles, to get around human limitations on test writing productivity and insufficient imagination in knowing where to look for bugs. Modern designs (’90’s until present) often run operating systems successfully on first silicon, despite having microarchitectures that are orders of magnitude more complicated than their predecessors.
On topography and geoid from 2‐D stagnant lid convection calculations

[1] Temperature-dependent convection in the stagnant lid regime with a Frank-Kamenetskii and Arrhenius viscosity formulation are compared. When properly scaled, the Nusselt number and root-mean-square velocity of the fluid for the two viscosity formulations are similar but the surface stresses and hence predicted dynamic topography and geoid differ significantly. The Arrhenius viscosity formulation results are insensitive to a viscosity cutoff at the high viscosity limit as long as the cutoff is 104 times the basal viscosity. The condition number for stagnant lid convection matrices using a penalty formulation is smaller than the penalty number times viscosity contrast value (a reasonable estimate of the condition number), explaining why large viscosity contrast convection problems with the penalty method agree with other formulations and analytic solutions. The difference in magnitude between the maximum and minimum dynamic topography could be used to constrain the magnitude of the viscosity contrast across the stagnant lid in planetary bodies.
Agar Block Technique for Identification of Mycoplasmas by Use of Fluorescent Antibody

A procedure for staining mycoplasmata colonies directly on agar blocks for examination by fluorescent microscopy is described. Areas of the agar surface appropriate for staining were demarcated by use of Lucite cylinders. Direct fluorescent-antibody staining was superior to indirect staining. The technique was very useful for determining whether cultures were mixed and for identification of mycoplasmas in either pure or mixed cultures.
Thirty-Day Mortality After Lobectomy in Elderly Patients Eligible for Lung Cancer Screening

Background Whether US surgeons have been able to replicate the low mortality rate of 1% after lobectomy experienced by patients treated in the National Lung Screening Trial is unknown. Methods To determine current operative 30-day mortality rates after lobectomy, we analyzed American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data files from 2005 to 2012. Results Of the 2,690 patients analyzed, 1,595 underwent open thoracotomy lobectomy and 1,095 underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy. Sixty-three postoperative deaths occurred among the 2,690 patients (2.34% overall). The mortality rate for open lobectomy was 3.13% (50 cases) and that for video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy was 1.19% (13 cases [odds ratio 2.69, 95% confidence interval: 1.43 to 5.43, p p p p = 0.45). Conclusions Among the hospitals participating in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, operative mortality rates after lobectomy are comparable to the operative mortality rates in the National Lung Screening Trial.
Wave velocities in the earth's core

More than 700 seismograms of 39 shocks recorded mainly in southern California at epicentral distances between 105 and 140 degrees are used to investigate records of phases which have penetrated the earth's core. Properties of PKIKP, SKP, SKIKP, PKS, and PKIKS are discussed. Portions of travel-time curves of these phases are revised. Travel times of waves starting and ending at the surface of the core, and wave velocities in the core, are recalculated. Between about 1,500 and 1,200 km. from the earth's center in the transition zone from the liquid outer to the probably solid inner core, waves having lengths of the order of 10 km. travel faster than longer waves. This is probably caused by a rather rapid increase in viscosity toward the earth's center in this transition zone.
Domain Formation in Quarternary Lipid Bilayer System: A Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Study

The spatial organization of phospholipids and sterols in cellular membranes is believed to play an important role in membrane function and cell activities. Both recent experimental and simulation studies have suggested various possible heterogeneous spatial distributions of lipids and cholesterol, including the formation of nanoscale lipid domains, in multi-component bilayer systems. In this study, we use coarse-grained Molecular Dynamics simulations to study the phase behavior of quarternary lipid mixtures as a function of membrane composition. We focus on the formation and size of nanoscopic lipid domains, their compositions, and their signatures in observables such as partial density correlation functions and structure factors.
On-line power spectra on small computers

Abstract A critical view of the possibilities and limitations on power spectral analysis in the environment typical for a biomedical laboratory is presented. A performance measurement tool is shown in light of spectral analysis of electroencephalographic data using the Fast Fourier transform algorithm.
Programmed cell death, degradation of myosin during the involution of the intersegmental muscles in Manduca sexta

Abstract 1. 1. Involuting intersegmental muscle of Manduca sexta contained a 67–70 K dalton fragment of myosin. 2. 2. The fragment was identified by precipitation with monospecific anti-MHC (myosin heavy chain) serum and by the fact that when endogenously-labelled myosin was degraded the label appeared in the fragment. 3. 3. The molecular weight of the remaining myosin was unchanged, but some myosin in degenerating fibers had a pI of 5.8, slightly more acid than the normal 5.9. 4. 4. Leupeptin-sensitive proteolytic activity in extracts did not rapidly degrade myofilament proteins. 5. 5. These results suggest that proteolysis is initiated by a small alteration of the MHC, followed by endopeptidic cuts. Leupeptin-sensitive enzymes are probably involved only in the later stages of proteolysis.
Molecularly-imprinted polymers selective for tetracycline binding

Molecularly-imprinted polymers (MIPs) possessing special binding ability to tetracycline are prepared using methacrylic acid monomer, tetracycline template and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) crosslinker. The binding experiments are conducted to evaluate the mechanism of recognition and influences of solvent polarity and degree of crosslinking on tetracycline binding. The results clearly indicate that synthesized MIPs have higher tetracycline binding ability as compared with corresponding non-imprinted polymers. The binding ability is the highest at 80 mol% crosslinking, as a rigid polymer structure is needed to maintain molecular imprints. In addition, the increase in solvent polarity can enhance the MIP/tetracycline binding due to the decrease in solute/solvent attraction. The high MIP affinity can be utilized in sensing, bioseparation and control release applications.
Hydrothermal effects west of the Juan de Fuca Ridge

The Juan de Fuca Ridge in the northeast Pacific Ocean is a region of extensive hydrothermal activity, and plumes emanating from the ridge can be dispersed by the oceanic circulation at about 2000 m. Off-axis temperature-salinity characteristics and water-property maps suggest a history of variability in hydrothermal activity on the ridge. Distinctive bulges in θ-S curves from stations several hundred kilometers westward have characteristics very similar to those near and over the ridge, possibly representing plume remnants from prior venting which detached from the source and drifted with the regional circulation. If they were advected from the ridge at about 1 cm s−1, they would represent venting events which occurred 2–3 years earlier. Although not conclusive, currents observed on the ridge in 1984–1985 showed a 6-month winter interval of continuous off-axis flow to the west, but, unfortunately, it occurred between annual shipboard observations. Year-to-year variations are shown by relatively large increases in the near-ridge potential temperatures from 1987 to 1988, possibly suggesting another event that may propagate westward. The thermal observations here are consistent with simultaneous distributions of silica, suspended particulates and helium described by others. The variations in temperature, as well as flow variability near the ridge, are sufficiently large that they need to be considered when interpreting other water column observations, not only near hydrothermally active ridges but also at least several hundred kilometers away from the venting sites.
A book not to be embraced: A critical appraisal of Stacy Johnson's A Time to Embrace

I wish that I could commend William Stacy Johnson's book, A Time to Embrace , as a rigorous and fair assessment of Christianity and homosexuality from a homosexualist perspective. Unfortunately, Johnson so regularly violates scholarly standards for honesty and accuracy in representing secondary literature, conceals from readers the most important counter-arguments to his position and shows gaps in logic, that I cannot embrace A Time to Embrace . Given space constraints, it is impossible to give a systematic presentation of the book's errors in fact or argumentation. I refer readers to my website for material that could not fit here and for a rejoinder to Johnson's response ( http://robgagnon.net/ArticlesOnline.htm ).
Renal calcitriol synthesis and serum phosphorus in response to dietary phosphorus restriction and anabolic agents

Abstract Calcitriol [1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 ] synthesis by the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 -1α-hydroxylase (1α-hydroxylase) is induced in rats on a low phosphorus diet, but not in the hypophysectomized (HPX) or diabetic rat. However, the normal response is restored by the administration of growth hormone (GH) or insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), or insulin, respectively. To further characterize this in vivo phenomenon, the acute effects of GH, IGF-I, and insulin were studied in the HPX rat. In the HPX rat the low phosphorus diet alone did not significantly alter serum phosphorus or 1α-hydroxylase activity, but treatment with GH resulted in a marked decrease in serum phosphorus that was associated with a fivefold induction of enzyme activity. Time course studies showed that by 6 hours after GH administration, hepatic IGF-I mRNA had increased 10-fold while renal IGF-I mRNA had increased by only 52%. Between 6 and 12 hours, serum phosphorus decreased dramatically and 1α-hydroxylase activity increased twofold. Treatment of phosphorus-restricted HPX rats with IGF-I resulted in a decrease in serum phosphorus by 2 hours that preceded a fourfold increase in enzyme activity between 6 and 10 hours. Treatment of phosphorus-restricted HPX rats with insulin produced similar results. This is the first demonstration of hypophosphatemia preceding induction of the 1α-hydroxylase after administration of IGF-I or insulin to the HPX rat on a low phosphorus diet. Although these growth factors may have a direct effect on the 1α-hydroxylase, these data suggest that the influence of GH, IGF-I, and insulin on transcellular phosphorus flux may have an independent effect on enzyme activity. Furthermore, the much greater induction of hepatic compared with renal IGF-I mRNA in response to GH suggests that systemic, rather than the local, IGF-I may be required for induction of the 1α-hydroxylase. This effect may be mediated by either the insulin or the IGF-I receptor.
An expression for GE for use in the reduction of ternary vapor-liquid equilibrium data

Abstract Campbell, S.W. 1992. An expression for G E for use in the reduction of ternary vapor-liquid equilibrium data. Fluid Phase Equilibria, 74: 35-46. A new empirical correlating expression for the excess Gibbs free energy is proposed for use in reduction of ternary vapor-liquid equilibrium data. The equation results from an attempt to combine the desirable aspects of local composition equations and those based on Wohl's expansion. The method is applied to two ternary systems, each of which is comprised of two alcohols and a hydrocarbon. The new equation compares favorably to previously attempted methods in that it provides a slightly better representation of the ternary data while utilizing fewer adjustable parameters.
Effect of man's motion on the attitude of a satellite.

This paper presents 1) the equations of motion necessary for describing the effect, on the attitude of a cylindrical satellite, of a point mass man walking inside or on the surface of a right circular cylindrical satellite, 2) numerical results for the case where an astronaut walks on the surface of a Gemini type spacecraft, and 3) the forces required to perform the motion. Except for some special cases that contain closed-form solutions, the equations were solved on a large analog computer. In all cases studied, the magnitude of the constraint force on the man was less than 20 Ib, causing no concern. However, the changes in the angular velocity of the spacecraft and in the direction cosines that relate the body axes of the spacecraft to the inertial axes may cause concern, particularly if they take place during a rendezvous and hookup with another orbiting vehicles.
Widespread horizontal transfer of mitochondrial genes in flowering plants

Horizontal gene transfer--the exchange of genes across mating barriers--is recognized as a major force in bacterial evolution. However, in eukaryotes it is prevalent only in certain phagotrophic protists and limited largely to the ancient acquisition of bacterial genes. Although the human genome was initially reported to contain over 100 genes acquired during vertebrate evolution from bacteria, this claim was immediately and repeatedly rebutted. Moreover, horizontal transfer is unknown within the evolution of animals, plants and fungi except in the special context of mobile genetic elements. Here we show, however, that standard mitochondrial genes, encoding ribosomal and respiratory proteins, are subject to evolutionarily frequent horizontal transfer between distantly related flowering plants. These transfers have created a variety of genomic outcomes, including gene duplication, recapture of genes lost through transfer to the nucleus, and chimaeric, half-monocot, half-dicot genes. These results imply the existence of mechanisms for the delivery of DNA between unrelated plants, indicate that horizontal transfer is also a force in plant nuclear genomes, and are discussed in the contexts of plant molecular phylogeny and genetically modified plants.
Optical Absorption Spectra of Chlorine‐Associated Defect Centers in an Irradiated ZrF4‐Based Glass

The optical absorption spectra of an irradiated zirconium-barium-lanthanumaluminum-lithium fluoride glass prepared with 1 wt% BaCl/sub 2/ were resolved into Gaussian bands identified as the V /SUB K/ and V /SUB H/ centers, Zr/sup 3 +/, and two bands associated with Cl, i.e., FCl/sup -/ at 4.78 eV and Cl/sup -//sub 2/ at 3.90 eV. These latter bands are more thermally stable than the V /SUB H/ and V /SUB K/ trapped hole centers, persisting to 450 and 550 K, respectively.
Characterization of de-fluidized regions in the wake of submerged objects in a small particle fluidized bed

Abstract The structure of the de-fluidized hood, an area of un-fluidized material found in the wake of submerged objects, is studied with special interest on the internal de-fluidization levels and shape of the hood. Previously, the structure of the region was determined based on indirect photographic evidence. The findings on the structure of the de-fluidized region allow for better prediction of the buoyancy on submerged objects within a fluidized bed. In the present study the force imparted by the wake region at various depths on a submerged object within a fluidized bed of “Geldart A” particles was measured providing insight into the size of the region, as well as levels of the fluidization within the wake. Additionally, bed collapse with an object near the surface and the ability of that free surface to support weight were measured. The results show the region to have multiple regions: a stagnant dead layer directly above the object, topped by a larger percolating region with particle circulation and an expanding region. The overall shape is found to resemble a cylinder with a rounded top. The roles played by voids generated by the submerged object, angles of repose and secondary circulation are discussed.
Reflections from the Middle: Making Sense of Elitism in Our Midst

This article sketches a personal story of life at a teaching institution when jobs in sociology were scarce. I examine the concept of elitism and situate it in conditions that shaped the discipline of sociology in the 1970s when a growing number of women entered the field. Throughout my story, I raise the following points: (1) Defining elitism requires comprehending its relativity, (2) Understanding what stands as elitism necessitates examining local and national standards for professional performance, (3) Recognizing that unshared standards or lack of awareness of routine standards leads to charges of elitism, and (4) Acknowledging that the discipline’s class system hardens into a caste system when jobs are tight and thus fuels elitism. I conclude by reflecting on the place of standards in local sociology departments and the larger discipline.
Preliminary analysis of frasnian, late devonian conodont biogeography

Although conodont endemism was not as high in the Frasnian as in earlier Devonian intervals, analysis of a limited number of intensively collected sections in the Montagne Noire, the United States and Canada, Western Australia, and the Russian Platform demonstrates levels of endemism ranging from about 30 to 35% in three composites of two zones each. Graphic correlation of sections in these regions provides the biostratigraphic framework. Endemic species occur in both the Palmatolepisand Polygnathusbiofacies, suggesting that the Frasnian was not a time of conodont cosmopolitanism throughout Devonian tropical regions, even within the widespread Palmatolepisbiofacies. Using the Probabilistic Index of Similarity of Raup and Crick (1979), all significantly dissimilar pairs are comparisons between faunas representing different biofacies, and all significantly similar pairs are faunas of the same biofacies. Although conodont biofacies were thus a major controlling factor, the statistically significant similarit...
Ion velocity distributions in the high-latitude ionosphere

The theory and observations relating to ion velocity distributions in the high-latitude F region are reviewed. The review covers three basic aspects, including methods for calculating ion velocity distributions, experimental evidence for the existence of non-Maxwellian ion velocity distributions, and the ionospheric consequences of non-Maxwellian distributions. Specific topics covered include closed form solutions to Boltzmann's equation for a simple collision model, series solutions to the Boltzmann equation for more general collision models, retarding potential analyzer measurements, excitation of VLF electrostatic emissions, ion-neutral reaction rates, and transport effects.
Modeling Na+- and Ca2+-dependent mechanisms of rhythmic bursting in excitatory neural networks

The mechanisms generating neural oscillations in the mammalian brainstem, particularly in the pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BotC) involved in control of respiration, and the spinal cord (e.g. circuits controlling locomotion) that persist after blockade of synaptic inhibition, remain poorly understood. Experimental studies in medullary slices from neonatal rodents containing the pre-BotC identified two mechanisms that could potentially contribute to generation of rhythmic bursting in the pre-BotC: one based on the persistent sodium current (INaP) [1,2], and the other involving the voltage-gated calcium (ICa) [3] and/or the calcium-activated nonspecific cation current (ICAN), activated by intracellular Ca2+ accumulated from extra- and/or intracellular sources [4]. However, the involvement and relative roles of these mechanisms in rhythmic bursting are still under debate. In this theoretical/modeling study we investigated Na+- and Ca2+-dependent bursting generated in single cells and in a heterogeneous population of synaptically interconnected excitatory neurons with INaP, and ICa randomly distributed within the population. We analyzed the possible roles of network connections, ionotropic and metabotropic synaptic mechanisms, intracellular Ca2+ release, and the Na+/K+ pump in rhythmic bursting activity generated under different conditions. We show that the heterogeneous population of excitatory neurons can operate in different oscillatory regimes with bursting dependent on INaP and/or ICAN, or independent of both (Fig. ​(Fig.1).1). The oscillatory regime and operating bursting mechanism may depend on neuronal excitability, synaptic interactions and relative expression of particular ionic currents. Figure 1 A map of bursting activities derived from multiple simulations of the excitatory neuron population and presented in a 2D parameter space (gtonic, ), where gtonic is the external excitatory drive to all neurons, N is the number of neurons in the population, ... The existence of multiple oscillatory regimes and their state-dependency may provide explanations for different rhythmic activities observed in the brainstem and spinal cord under different experimental conditions.
Un « effet-pointe » troublant sur l’hCG dosé au cours de la chimiothérapie de rattrapage d’une tumeur trophoblastique chez une jeune femme

Summary The clinical case reports about hCG surge observed during the third cure of the second-line chemotherapy in a woman with a gestational trophoblastic tumor. The use of a software for the kinetic of tumor markers allowed to discard a resistance to the treatment. A serum tumor marker surge at the start of chemotherapy is observed in 20 % of the patients. Its prognostic significance is controversial. The identification of hCG surge is needed to avoid unnecessary change of chemotherapy.
Deposition of chemically sensitive polymer films by picosecond resonant infrared laser ablation

Pulsed laser deposition of complex, chemically sensitive polymers using tunable, picosecond infrared laser excitation has shown great promise for producing films of these materials appropriate for a wide variety of sensor and coating applications. Fourier-transform infrared spectra of the bulk starting polymers and those of the deposited thin films are nearly identical, verifying that the short-range order and chemical functionality of the polymers are preserved during the process. Gel permeation chromatography and mass spectrometry have been used to characterize the polydispersity of the mass distribution; here the results are mixed, with the mass distributions of some poly-mers being preserved while others show significant bond scission. Most recently, we have demonstrated that it is possible to coat cantilever structures with the polymer SFXA; the deposited polymer responds as desired when 'challenged' by appropriate chemicals.
A simple device for timing precordial murmurs

Summary A thin necklace chain lightly suspended about a patient's neck serves as an ideal method for accurately timing cardiac murmurs.
Policy challenges for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in education 1

Beginning with an overview of historical commitments by AAPI populations to educational advocacy, this article analyzes the current US educational policy context of No Child Left Behind at the national and local level, and argues that both its rhetoric and system of ‘accountability’ have been crafted in ways that are completely unaccountable to AAPI communities. The article offers specific recommendations to address critical needs for youth, parent, and community development as well as for clearer AAPI leadership, representation, and activism in relation to education policy. Using specific examples to illustrate larger issues and contradictions, it also argues that educational policy analysis and development with greater AAPI accountability must be linked with the stories and struggles of real people, just as efforts to problem‐solve daily life issues of individuals, families, and communities must address larger structures and systems at the policy level in order to be effective and sustainable.
Rho Kinase Regulation of Fibroblast Migratory Mechanics in Fibrillar Collagen Matrices

Migration of activated corneal fibroblasts plays an important role in matrix patterning during embryonic development and wound repopulation following injury or refractive surgery. In this study, we investigate the role of Rho kinase in regulating fibroblast migration mechanics, by modifying a previously described nested collagen matrix model to facilitate dynamic imaging of cell–matrix interactions. Human corneal fibroblasts were cultured in nested matrices with media containing either 1% fetal bovine serum (FBS), or 1% FBS plus the Rho kinase inhibitor Y-27632. Time-lapse DIC imaging of cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) movements was performed for up to 72 h. In addition, static confocal imaging was used to assess 3-D cell morphology and local matrix reorganization. In 1% FBS, significant tractional forces were generated during migration, as indicated by inward displacement and reorganization of collagen in front of cells. When Rho kinase was inhibited, cells became more elongated, and extended dendritic processes into the outer matrix. Interestingly, these dendritic cells were still able to generate tractional forces at their leading edge, whereas cell translocation was substantially reduced. Overall, the data suggests that Rho kinase impacts 3-D fibroblast migration by affecting morphology, polarization, and mechanical coordination between the leading and trailing edges of cells.
Plasma Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Testosterone Levels during Sexual Maturation in Beef Bull Calves

Blood samples were taken by jugularvenipuncture from bullcalvesevery other week from I to 40 weeks of age.Samples were alsodrawn by jugularcannula,every 15 mm for 2 h, from a different group of 4-5 calves at 10 week intervals, from 1 to 40 weeks of age. Following the period of intensive blood collection each group of calves was castrated. Based upon histological examination of the testis, spermatogenesis was initiated after 10 weeks of age, with mature spermatozoa being present in the testis by 40 weeks of age. Body weight and epididymal weight increased linearly with age, while testicular weight increased in a curvilinear pattern, with the most dramatic increase occurring from 30 to 40 weeks of age. Plasma concentrations of LH were low prior to 8 weeks of age, between 10 and 20 weeks of age episodic fluctuations were observed, with a return to low and stable concentrations being seen before a final gradual increase to adult levels at 40 weeks of age. Plasma concentrations of testosterone were variable, but appeared to rise markedly after 28 weeks of age, reaching adult levels by 40 weeks of age. The mode of variation of plasma concentrations of testosterone appeared to resemble that of the adult in 3 of 5 bull calves at 20 weeks of age and all 5 bull calves at 40 weeks of age; more transient peaks were observed at 10 weeks of age.
Experimental quantification of cavitation yield revisited : focus on high frequency ultrasound reactors

Acoustic cavitation plays an important role in enhancing the reaction rate of chemical processes in sonochemical systems. However, quantification of cavitation intensity in sonochemical systems is generally limited to low frequency systems. In this study, an empirical determination of cavitation yield in high frequency ultrasound systems was performed by measuring the amount of iodine liberated from the oxidation of potassium iodide (KI) solution at 1.7 and 2.4 MHz. Experiments for determining cavitation were carried out at various solute (KI) concentrations under constant temperature, obtained by direct cooling of the solution and variable temperature conditions, in the absence of external cooling. Cavitation yield measurements, reported in this work, extend previously reported results and lend credence to the two step reaction pathway in high frequency systems. Additionally, the concentration of KI and temperature affect the cavitation yield of a system such that the iodine production is proportional to both conditions. It is proposed that direct cooling of sonicated KI solution may be advantageous for optimization of cavitation intensity in high frequency sonochemical reactors.
Complexes of aromatic amine oxides: Nickel(II) complexes of 6-substituted quinoline N-oxides

Abstract The coordinating properties of a series of 6-substituted quinoline N-oxides (6ZQNO) toward nickel(II) have been investigated. The compounds have been assigned octahedral structures with general formula [Ni(6ZQNO) 6 ]X 2 where Z = CH 3 O, CH 3 , H, Cl, Br, or NO 2 and X = ClO 4 or BF 4 . The visible and infrared spectra and magnetic properties of these complexes are discussed and compared with the previously reported nickel complexes of the 4-substituted quinoline N-oxides and the 4-substituted pyridine N-oxides. The relative π-acceptor abilities of the three series of ligands are discussed.
Prevalence of periodontal disease among dental school patients

Abstract Objectives To determine the prevalence of rare periodontal diseases in a dental school clinic that mimics a large general dentistry practice. Methods We reviewed the charts of all patients who sought comprehensive dental care at the Western University of Health Sciences Dental Center, California, USA, between September 2010 and February 2013 to determine the prevalence rates of various oral conditions and compared them with published data by chi-square analysis. Results Periodontal disease was the commonest oral condition (96%), followed by caries producing enamel surface cavitation (70%), endodontic infections (26%), occlusal trauma as evidenced by fremitus (15%), oral lesions requiring biopsy (1%) and edentulism (1%). About 4% of patients had rare periodontal diseases, including localized aggressive periodontitis (0.3%), periodontal abscesses (0.6%), gingival abscesses (0.09%), combined periodontal–endodontic infections (2.6%), gingivitis modified by systemic factors (0.55%) and gingival diseases not associated with plaque (0.3%). Chronic periodontitis was slightly commoner (53.0%) than in the general US population and, with plaque-associated gingivitis (42.1%), constituted most of the periodontal disease. Patients were slightly older than the average for California and the US, but were of similar ethnic composition and average systemic health. Conclusion Periodontal disease is common in patients of average health, and dentists should be ready to recognize and manage rare periodontal disease, as it occurs in about one of every 25 patients.
Two FeH pairs in n -type Si and their implications: A theoretical study

Experimental evidence for interstitial {FeH} pairs in $n$-type Si stems from thermally stimulated capacitance (TSCAP). Electron-paramagnetic resonance (EPR) data have also been interpreted in terms of {FeH} pairs. We present theoretical studies of two {FeH} pairs. The properties of the first match those of the TSCAP center but are incompatible with the EPR center. The second is a possible candidate for the EPR center. If true, this suggests that high-temperature anneals can introduce substitutional Fe in concentrations higher than commonly believed.
Reductive transformation of trichloroethene by cobalamin : Reactivities of the intermediates acetylene, chloroacetylene, and the DCE isomers

The transformations of acetylene, chloroacetylene, 1,1-dichloroethene (DCE), and cis- and trans-DCE mediated by cobalamin in the presence of titanium(III) citrate were investigated at pH 8 and 22 °C. Acetylene quantitatively reacted to ethene via vinylcobalamin as the proposed intermediate. Chloroacetylene reacted to acetylene and vinyl chloride. Proposed intermediates are ethynylcobalamin and vinylcobalamin, respectively. The principal initial reaction of chloroacetylene formed ethynylcobalamin which decomposed to acetylene. The proposition for ethynyl- and vinylcobalamin formation is based on fitting reaction models to kinetic data. Kinetic modeling sug gests half-lives for ethynyl- and vinylcobalamin of 1.4 and 251 h, respectively. 1,1-Dichloroethene reacted to ap proximately 20% volatiles (ethene, ethane, vinyl chloride, and acetylene) and 80% unidentified nonvolatile products. cis- and trans-DCE transformed slowly and produced small yields of vinyl chloride, ethene, and ethane.
A high-performance reflector antenna appropriate for high-volume production

Summary form only given. The cost of an antenna element is a key parameter in maximizing the performance per cost ratio of an array. Most current radio telescope array antennas were not designed for high-volume production but generally “only” for performance since typically the production numbers were not large enough to (a) justify the additional design effort and (b) qualify for discount production in terms of amortized tooling costs and quantity purchase. The Allen Telescope Array (ATA) was one of the first radio telescope antenna arrays to be designed for high-volume antenna production.
Comparison of the effectiveness of intramuscular and intraperitoneal ACTH in the rat

Injection of 1–24 ACTH is more effective by the i.m. than i.p. route. Large doses are required to induce consistent maximal adrenal corticosterone secretion.
Women's Knowledge, Views, and Experiences Regarding Alcohol Use and Pregnancy: Opportunities to Improve Health Messages

Background Women continue to drink alcohol during pregnancy despite Surgeon Generals' Advisory statements and educational efforts about the dangers. Purpose This focus group research study examined women's knowledge and beliefs about alcohol consumption and its risks during pregnancy along with related perceptions of social influences and information sources in order to inform future messaging. Methods The study included 20 focus groups of 149 reproductive-age women segmented by age, pregnancy status, and race/ethnicity. Results and Discussion Women acknowledged the risks and consequences of drinking alcohol during pregnancy, but many held common misconceptions. Some women continued to drink during pregnancy or expressed intent to continue drinking until pregnancy confirmation. Findings indicated that women's partners, families, and friends influence women's decisions to drink or abstain from alcohol. In addition, health care providers and the Internet act as important sources of health information for wo...