cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SrAu4In4 and Sr4Au9In13: polar intermetallic structures with cations in augmented hexagonal prismatic environments.

The title compounds were synthesized via high-temperature reactions of the elements in welded Ta tubes and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses and band structure calculations. SrAu{sub 3.76(2)}In{sub 4.24} crystallizes in the YCo{sub 5}In{sub 3} structure type with two of eight network sites occupied by mixtures of Au and In: Pnma, Z = 4, a = 13.946(7), b = 4.458(2), c = 12.921(6) {angstrom}. Its phase breadth appears to be small. Sr{sub 4}Au{sub 9}In{sub 13} exhibits a new structure type, P{sub 6}m2, Z = 1, a = 12.701(2), c = 4.4350(9) {angstrom}. The Sr atoms in both compounds center hexagonal prisms of nominally alternating In and Au atoms and also have nine augmenting (outer) Au + In atoms around their waists so as to define 21-vertex Sr{at}Au{sub 9}M{sub 4}In{sub 8} (M = Au/In) and Sr{at}Au{sub 9}In{sub 12} polyhedra, respectively. The relatively larger Sr content in the second phase also leads to condensation of some of the ideal building units into trefoil-like cages with edge-shared six-member rings. One overall driving force for the formation of these structures can be viewed as the need for each Sr cation to have as many close neighbors as possible in the more anionic Au-In network.more » The results also depend on the cation size as well as on the flexibility of the anionic network and an efficient intercluster condensation mode as all clusters are shared. Band structure calculations (LMTO-ASA) emphasize the greater strengths (overlap populations) of the Au-In bonds and confirm expectations that both compounds are metallic.« less
Analysis of neonatal death in NICU during the latest 5 years

Objective To analyze the cause and change of neonatal death during the latest 5 years,to discuss the ways to decrease the mortality.Methods A retrospective analysis of 69 cases in NICU were performed from Jan 2004 to Dec 2008.Results(1)The sex ratio of male to female was 1.7:1.The preterm infants accounted for 34.8%,preterm infants with gestational ages of less than 32 weeks accounted for 70.8% of the total premature deaths.(2)59.4% of the deaths in newborn infants occurred in the first 7days of life.69.6% occurred within 3 days after admission.(3)The three leading causes of premature infant death were RDS,sepsis and scleredema neonatorum,accounted for 75% of premature death.The three leading canses of full term death were sepsis,neonate severe asphyxia and pneumonia,accounted for 71.1% of all full term death.(4)The newborn who died of RDS were gradually decreasing.Those who died of sepsis and severe asphyxia weren't changing.Condusion Heath care during the perinatal period should be strengthened to decrease the premature birth and asphyxia.The neonatal new resuscitation technique should be widely adovocated and neonatal sepsis should be treated positively. Key words: Infant; newborn; Neonate; premature; Death
Older Adults' Experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Stresses and Joys.

Background and objectives The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is experienced differently across individuals, and older adults' different life experiences lead to a variety of ways of coping. The present study explores older adults' reports of what about the pandemic is stressful, and what brings joy and comfort in the midst of stress. Research design and methods An online survey asked 825 U.S. adults aged 60 and older to complete questionnaires assessing 3 psychological well-being indicators: perceived stress, negative affect, and positive affect. Participants also responded to open-ended questions about what was stressful and what brought joy or comfort at the time of the survey. A mixed-method approach first qualitatively analyzed the open-ended responses, content analysis identified themes most frequently reported, and quantitative analysis examined the associations between various stressors and joys and the psychological well-being indicators. Results Qualitative analysis revealed 20 stress categories and 21 joy/comfort categories. The most commonly reported stressors were confinement/restrictions, concern for others, and isolation/loneliness; the most commonly reported sources of joy/comfort were family/friend relationships, digital social contact, and hobbies. Demographic comparisons revealed variations in experience. Independent t tests revealed stress from concern for others, the unknown future, and contracting the virus to be significantly associated with poorer psychological well-being; faith, exercise/self-care, and nature were associated with more positive psychological well-being. Discussion and implications Results are discussed in the context of stress and coping theory, highlighting the importance of understanding the unique stress experience of each individual for effective distress intervention.
ADA Standards May Put MLB Parks in a Bind

Several lawsuits have been filed against MLB teams alleging their stadiums fail to meet the standards required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Development of a miniature objective based on calcium fluoride and zinc sulfide lenses for ultrafast laser microsurgery applications

Calcium fluoride and zinc sulfide crystals exhibit broad multispectral transparency and are used for a multitude of optical applications. However, they both belong to a soft brittle crystal category and are mechanically challenging to process. Thus, a fabrication protocol using a single-point diamond turning method was developed, which can yield surfaces with optical quality for these materials. By using a diamond turning tool with low waviness (≤100-nm waviness) and by using feed rates of 1 and 0.2 μm / rev, CaF2 and ZnS surfaces with surface roughness of 6 and 5 nm were manufactured, respectively. Design and fabrication of a miniature objective with 0.5 NA are also presented, which was developed for the ultrafast laser microsurgery application. The objective consists of CaF2 and ZnS lenses to withstand the high power from ultra-short laser pulses and to provide a tightly focused beam with 1.23 μm 1 / e2 spot radius for laser ablation. Based on the spot size measurement of the objective, its performance was considered to be near diffraction limited.
Thermophysical Properties of Fe30Mn4Al0.9C: A Coupled Computational-Experimental Approach

Due to their low density and high toughness, compared to traditional steels, high-manganese austenitic steels are outstanding candidates across several industries like defense and automotive. Over the past few decades, modeling tools have found their way into foundries worldwide. Nonetheless, for these codes to provide trustworthy predictions, accurate input properties are required. For the composition studied (Fe30Mn4Al0.9C1Si0.5Mo), thermophysical properties are scarce in the literature. Hence, a coupled computational-experimental approach was used to determine the needed property data as function of temperature. Key properties like phase transitions, enthalpy, density, fraction solid, heat capacity (CP), latent heat and viscosity were determined using a commercially available thermodynamics calculation package. These properties were first calculated for known systems (304SS and A356), and the calculated results were compared to results from the literature. Thermophysical properties for the system of interest were then calculated. Validation for CP and liquidus and solidus temperatures was performed via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Detection of solidus temperature via DSC proved to be challenging, hence, a discrete-derivative analysis was conducted to determine this parameter. Mold filling and solidification simulations were performed and compared with actual castings.
AdipoAtlas: Mapping out human white adipose tissue

In this issue of Cell Reports Medicine, Lange and colleagues1 significantly improve lipid identification accuracy, detection, and quantification to provide AdipoAtlas, an in-depth lipidomic profile of human white adipose tissue (WAT). Importantly, they define obesity-mediated lipid alterations, which may provide insight into the etiology of associated diseases.
Common Sense in Persons with Intellectual Disabilities: The Challenge of Deciding to Say No to Social Manipulation

Common sense is the intuitive exercise of good judgment in situations that could place an individual in social or practical danger. Intellectual disability (ID) along with other brain-based conditions involving cognitive impairments can be described as a “common sense deficit disorder” in that people with cognitive limitations are at increased risk of making risk-oblivious decisions. However, one can find examples of good (or at least non-foolish) judgment being exercised by a person who has ID and, of course, many examples of people without ID behaving foolishly. This paradox can be largely explained by the fact that cognition is not the only reason why people make good or poor decisions. A four-factor model is used to shed light on decisions made by people, with (or without) ID, in situations that are potentially risky. Previous writings based on this model have dealt with its problematic (such as gullible) applications. But in keeping with this book series’ emphasis on positive psychology, this chapter shows how the model can also help to explain instances where a person with ID makes (or can be helped to make) decisions that can be described as safe or competent.
Field and genetic analysis of Chinese fast-growing rhizobia

98 INTRODUCTION 100 MATERIALS AND METHODS 101 Bacterial Strains and Plasmids 101 Media and Growth Conditions 101 Antibiotic Sensitivity 101 Isolation of Mutants 102 Plant-Infection Test 103 CAS Analysis of Siderophores 103 DNA Isolation and Southern Hybridization 104 Greenhouse Study 104 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 106 Antibiotic Sensitivity 106 Transposition Frequency 10 6 Mutant Selection 106 CAS Analysis of Siderophore 107 Southern Hybridization 110 Nodule Occupancy and Plant Dry Weight 110 Summary 114 REFERENCES CITED 115 SUMMARY AND DISCUSSION 118 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 121 APPENDIX A 122 APPENDIX B 133
Transcriptome-wide measurement of plant RNA secondary structure

RNAs fold into intricate and precise secondary structures. These structural patterns regulate multiple steps of the RNA lifecycle, while also conferring catalytic and scaffolding functions to certain transcripts. Therefore, a full understanding of RNA posttranscriptional regulation requires a comprehensive picture of secondary structure. Here, we review several high throughput sequencing-based methods to globally survey plant RNA secondary structure. These methods are more accurate than computational prediction, and more scalable than physical techniques such as crystallography. We note hurdles to reliably measuring secondary structure, including RNA-binding proteins, RNA base modifications, and intramolecular duplexes. Finally, we survey the functional knowledge that has been gleaned from each of these methods, and identify some unanswered questions that remain.
An approach for matrix converter based induction motor drive with unity power factor and minimum switching losses

A matrix converter is a direct ac/ac power converter with sinusoidal input currents and no bulky de-link capacitor. With these features, it offers remarkable advantages over other alternatives in applications requiring improved utility interaction and critical weight/volume reduction. Lately, the indirect matrix converter topologies have been investigated, leading to a possibility of a reduced switch number and a multi-drive application. However, due to off-line input current regulations of the matrix converter, input displacement power factor varies with the LC input filter and load condition. This fact yields non-unity displacement power factor and increased switching losses. In this paper, a novel on-line input current control strategy is proposed based on a closed-loop control in the synchronous reference frame. The approach allows independent control of the two input current components (active and reactive), yielding zero reactive components. In addition, this paper shows the indirect matrix converter has minimum switching losses with the input currents in phase with the input voltages by specifying a relationship of input current phase angle and the switching losses in semiconductors. Simulation results are presented for the feasibility of the proposed technique and the experimental results are in progress.
The effect of an alternative keyboard on musculoskeletal discomfort: A randomized cross-over trial.

Background There is limited research on the effectiveness of alternative keyboards in reducing discomfort in the workplace. Objective We hypothesized that participants using a fixed split-angle (alternative) keyboard would report significantly greater improvements in discomfort in comparison to those using a standard keyboard. Additionally, we hypothesized that at 5 months participants would significantly prefer the configuration of the alternative keyboard in comparison to the standard keyboard. Method In this randomized cross-over trial 77 symptomatic computer operators used fixed split-angle or standard flat keyboards for five months in their workplace, then switched to the other keyboard. Discomfort was collected weekly using the Weekly Discomfort Survey and usability was measured monthly. Results There was no significant keyboard by period effect on any discomfort measure. The number of participants with discomfort decreased dramatically in the first month of use, regardless of keyboard type, and this number remained relatively unchanged for the remainder of the study. Participants' ratings significantly favored the standard flat keyboard for usability. Conclusions This study does not support the use of fixed split-angle keyboards over standard flat keyboards to reduce discomfort in the workplace. Further research is needed to evaluate if subgroups of keyboard users might benefit.
Solar forcing of Florida Straits surface salinity during the early Holocene

[1] Previous studies showed that sea surface salinity (SSS) in the Florida Straits as well as Florida Current transport covaried with changes in North Atlantic climate over the past two millennia. However, little is known about earlier Holocene hydrographic variability in the Florida Straits. Here, we combine Mg/Ca-paleothermometry and stable oxygen isotope measurements on the planktonic foraminifera Globigerinoides ruber (white variety) from Florida Straits sediment core KNR166–2 JPC 51 (24 � 24.70′ N, 83 � 13.14′ W, 198 m deep) to reconstruct a high-resolution (� 25 yr/sample) early to mid Holocene record of sea surface temperature and d 18 OSW (a proxy for SSS) variability. After removing the influence of global d 18 OSW change due to continental ice volume variability, we find that early Holocene SSS enrichments are associated with increased evaporation/precipitation ratios in the Florida Straits during periods of reduced solar forcing, increased ice rafted debris in the North Atlantic and the development of more permanent El Nino–like conditions in the eastern equatorial Pacific. When considered with previous high-resolution reconstructions of Holocene tropical atmospheric circulation changes, our results provide evidence that variations in solar forcing over the early Holocene had a significant impact on the global tropical hydrologic cycle.
Electronic Checklists: Implications for Decision Making:

Checklists are a way of life on the flight deck, and, undoubtedly, are indispensable decision aids due to the volume of technical knowledge that must be readily accessible. The improper use of chec...
Hybrid reconfigurable processors-the road to low-power consumption

Energy considerations are at the heart of important paradigm shifts in next-generation designs, especially in systems-on-a-chip era. With multimedia and communication functions becoming more and more prominent, coming up with low-power solutions for these signal-processing applications is a clear must. Harvard-style architectures, as used in traditional signal processors, incur a significant overhead in power dissipation. It is therefore worthwhile to explore novel and different architectures and to quantify their impact on energy efficiency. Recently, reconfigurable programmable engines have received a lot of attention. In this paper, the opportunity for substantial power reduction by using hybrid reconfigurable processors is explored. With the aid of a number of small benchmarks, it is demonstrated that power reductions of orders of magnitude are attainable.
Implementation of a Digital Filter Initialization in the WRF Model and Its Application in the Rapid Refresh

AbstractBecause of limitations of variational and ensemble data assimilation schemes, resulting analysis fields exhibit some noise from imbalance in subsequent model forecasts. Controlling finescale noise is desirable in the NOAA’s Rapid Refresh (RAP) assimilation/forecast system, which uses an hourly data assimilation cycle. Hence, a digital filter initialization (DFI) capability has been introduced into the Weather Research and Forecasting Model and applied operationally in the RAP, for which hourly intermittent assimilation makes DFI essential. A brief overview of the DFI approach, its implementation, and some of its advantages are discussed. Results from a 1-week impact test with and without DFI demonstrate that DFI is effective at reducing high-frequency noise in short-term operational forecasts as well as providing evidence of reduced errors in the 1-h mass and momentum fields. However, DFI is also shown to reduce the strength of parameterized deep moist convection during the first hour of the forecast.
Two-Dimensional Spreads of Synaptonemal Complexes from Solanaceous Plants. VI. High-Resolution Recombination Nodule Map for Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum)

We have produced a high-resolution physical recombination map for tomato chromosomes by determining the frequency and distribution of recombination nodules (RNs) on tomato synaptonemal complexes (SCs). We present evidence that there is a 1:1 relationship between RNs and chiasmata. Every SC has at least one RN. There are no RNs at the ends of SCs, in kinetochores, or in the heterochromatic short arm of SC 2 that carries the nucleolus organizer. RNs are more common per unit length of SC in euchromatin compared with SC in heterochromatin . The average number of RNs per SC and the average number of RNs per SC arm are directly correlated with the length of SC in euchromatin. When SCs have only one RN, that RN occurs on the long arm more frequently than predicted based on SC arm length. Patterns of multiple Rns on SCs indicate RN (crossover) interference. Rns probably can occur anywhere on SCs in euchromatin, but RNs are not distributed randomly along SCs in euchromatin or in heterochromatin. The lengths of tomato's physical recombination (RN) map, classical genetic linkage map, and molecular linkage map all differ from each other for a variety of reasons.
HEALED INFARCTION OF THE ILEUM WITH STENOSIS AND SUBSEQUENT SYCOTIC OBSTRUCTION WITH SECONDARY INFARCTION.

Summary A case is reported of obstruction of the ileum by large whole figs at a site of stricture (healed infarct) that resulted from a previously occluded mesenteric artery. Secondarily, the acute mechanical obstruction caused dilation and further vascular insufficiency with resultant proximal infarction. At necropsy the bowel at the site of atiastorrlosis showed imzcosal infarct.
Axonal transport and the movement of45Ca inside the giant axon of squid

Abstract 45Ca was microinjected directly into the giant axon of squid, and the radioisotope profile along the axon was determined after 2–12 h. Our results indicated that the intracellular Ca ions at the axon, unlike those at the cell body, were not axonally transported at a fast rate. The implication of this finding on the involvement of Ca in the axonal transport system is discussed.
Synthesis of thiazolines by the reaction of aryl ketonitriles with cysteamine via microwave irradiation

Thiazolines were synthesized in a one-pot reaction in excellent yield using a newly developed methodology. Ketonitriles were directly condensed with cysteamine (2-amino-thioalcohol) via microwave irradiation at 210°C for 10 minutes under solvent free conditions and without any solid support. All the compounds were characterized by 1H nmr, 13C nmr spectroscopy and elemental analyses.
Tissue kallikreins in evolutionarily diverse vertebrates.

Abstract A search for tissue kallikreins in lower vertebrates resulted in the discovery of three novel kallikreins. Tissue kallikrein was isolated from the salivary gland of the Eastern Atlantic mole, Scalopus aquaticus, and the pancreas of the Southern frog, Rana berlandieri. A prokallikrein was identified in skeletal muscle of the black sea bass, Centropristis striata. These enzymes range in molecular mass from 27 to 36 kDa and are acidic proteins with pls between 4.2 and 5.3. Bass prokallikrein was activated by trypsin cleavage. These novel kallikreins were compared with human and rat tissue kallikreins in regard to immunoreactivity, molecular weight, isoelectric point, extinction coefficient, susceptibility to serine proteinase inhibitors and their ability to cleave low molecular weight dog kininogen to release kinin peptides.
Critical flow and spurious solutions Part II. The case of n equations

Abstract This paper constitutes a continuation of a paper which dealt with the occurrence of spurious solutions in adiabatic two-phase flows through channels of variable cross-sectional area. These are likely to occur in critical, choked conditions. The problem was straightforward when the mathematical model consisted of a single, ordinary, nonlinear differential equation—which is rare and valid only when the fluid is a perfect gas with constant specific heats. In such cases the solution was sought in the form of an initial-value problem. In the more general, realistic case the canonical form consists of n ⩾ 2 coupled nonlinear equations. This introduces considerable complexity, though the basic topological pattern of the portrait of solutions remains unchanged. Now it becomes necessary to replace the initial-value problem by one with given boundary conditions. Since critical flows always occur in the presence of a singular point in phase space (a saddle point in the case considered), the boundary there becomes movable. In all cases, spurious solutions are avoided by starting the numerical code at the critical point with analytically determined slopes. However, when n ⩾ 2 it becomes necessary to apply an iterative process (“shooting” method) whose details are described.
Photon counting during an eclipse.

We have built an instrument that counts pulses from photomultipliers that look at four bands of solar continuum, recording the changes in intensity during an eclipse. We use a plywood spectrograph to select an ultraviolet band and interference filters for the others. The number of counts seen in 120sec is displayed for the subsequent 120sec on binary light-emitting diodes which are photographed. Our experiment can attain a spatial resolution of better than 0.1 see of arc and an accuracy in irradiance of better than 3%.
Evolution of physician-hospital alignment models: a case study of comanagement.

Background Recently, quality, financial, and regulatory demands have driven physicians to seek alignment opportunities with hospitals. The motivation for alignment on the part of physicians and hospitals is now accelerating because the new paradigm under healthcare reform requires an increased focus on improving quality, cost, and efficiency.
Debye-Waller factors of alkali halides

Using very-high-intensity ({approximately}70 Ci) {sup 183}Ta M{umlt o}ssbauer sources, we have measured the Debye-Waller factors (DWF{close_quote}s) of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and potassium bromide single crystals for several of the (h00) and (nnn) Bragg reflections. We have used an approach which properly accounts for thermal expansion over the temperature range of our experiment, from 90 K to 900 K, about 100 K below the melting point of our crystals. We have found that a procedure used to analyze data by earlier workers leads to incorrect parameters in the Debye-Waller factor exponent, and our procedure does not require empirical parameters to account for the effects of thermal expansion. Additionally, we find three items of significance. Contrary to earlier results, we observe that the cations and the anions have identical DWF{close_quote}s in NaCl and also in KBr. We observe terms in the expansion of the DWF exponential which are quartic in the scattering wave vector {rvec Q} in NaCl and KCl, with some evidence for a Q{sup 4} term in KBr. The size of the Q{sup 4} contribution is reported and varies with the direction of momentum transfer. We also observe that the Debye temperature and the coefficient of the anharmonic Q{supmore » 2} term also vary with the direction of momentum transfer. We believe our data are the definitive evidence for a nonspherical thermal cloud in a cubic crystal; the ions have a larger amplitude of oscillation in the [h00] direction than in the [nnn] direction, contrary to the commonly held view of crystallographers that the most general form of the mean-square thermal motion is of an ellipsoid shape. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}« less
Computer generated hologram speed-up on generic surfaces

The speed-up obtained for computer generated holograms (CGH) using a look-up function table for the necessary transcendental functions is presented. Holograms to demonstrate this speed-up included in this paper are two simple test images and one medical image.
Beyond acetylcholine: Next steps for sleep and memory research

We consider Walker's thorough review in the context of thinking about future research on the relation between sleep and memory. We first address methodological issues including type of memory and sleep-stage dependency. We suggest a broader investigation of potential signaling molecules that may be critical to sleep-related consolidation. A brief review of the importance of the stress hormone cortisol illustrates this point.
Therapeutic jurisprudence: integrated inquiry and instrumental prescriptions

This paper considers the manner in which one could apply a therapeutic jurisprudence (TJ) analysis to a controversial approach to the treatment of sex offenders. Rather than attempting to resolve the difficult questions regarding this form of intervention, however, this paper uses this issue as an opportunity to examine some theoretical concerns about the nature and limits of the TJ research program. As interpreted here, TJ consists of a program of scholarship and law reform intended to promote integration of conceptual, empirical, and normative inquiry. TJ does not in itself resolve normative issues, but it promotes integrated analysis that can sharpen our ability to articulate and examine those normative concerns. TJ remains normatively neutral at the levels of value and theoretical neutrality. Prescriptively, it cannot generate principled normative prescriptions, but it can generate instrumental prescriptions. The long-term measure of the TJ program rests upon its success in promoting innovative and integrated interdisciplinary scholarship and law reform. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Language: en
Depression of chloride transport by carbonic anhydrase inhibitors in the absence of carbonic anhydrase.

CARBONIC anhydrase is present in the frog gastric mucosa and fish gill which actively transport chloride, and it has been observed that carbonic anhydrase inhibitors of the sulphonamide type decrease net chloride active transport in these tissues1,2. Zadunaisky3 has reported that chloride is actively transported by the frog cornea, and 95–100 per cent of the observed short-circuit current is attributable to active transport of chloride. Our interest in the part played by carbonic anhydrase in the active transport of chloride by the isolated gastric mucosa led us to measure the content of carbonic anhydrase and the effect of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (methazolamide) on the potential difference of the frog cornea in vitro.
Easements as a development control in the United States

Abstract During the 1960's and 1970's, people in the United States became more and more concerned about the loss of valuable natural and cultural resource sites to urban development. Zoning often has proved insufficient protection against land conversion. Easements have become increasingly popular as a means of protecting critical ecosystems, prime farmland, spectacular scenery, and historic landmarks. Many local and state governments and some federal agencies now have on-going programs for the purchase of easements. Private conservation organizations also acquire easements, but more frequently through the solicitation of gifts than through purchase. Because easements permanently prohibit or inhibit development, they reduce the value of land. Their cost, if they are purchased, is the difference between the value of the land before their acquisition and its value for uses allowed under the easement. Federal tax policy has fostered gifts of easements to approved organizations by allowing land-owners to deduct from their income the value of such gifts. This paper describes the use of, and experience with, easements by governments and private groups. Although easements have achieved widespread acceptance as a land-use control which is both effective and fair, substantial expansion of their use in the United States is likely to be contingent on improvement in the domestic economy.
Dendritic Growth and Morphology Selection in Copper Electrodeposition from Acidic Sulfate Solutions Containing Chlorides

We investigate the morphology of Cu films electrodeposited onto silicon from an acidic sulfate electrolyte with the addition of a variable concentration of chloride anions. Addition of chloride increases grain size and the degree of grain faceting while decreasing the density of growth nuclei. Well-developed monocrystalline dendrites are formed in acidic sulfate solutions with high concentration of chloride. Dendrites form under growth conditions that either approach diffusion limitation, or occur within a potential range where different crystallographic faces exhibit a different potential dependence for chloride desorption. The presence of dendrites however is mainly related to the fact that the reduction route Cu2+ → CuCl → Cu becomes the rate-determining process in solutions with high chloride concentration; the rate of this reaction is largest at {110} planes, where the concentration of chloride anions is the highest, generating dendrites with branches along the {110} directions.
Seasonal priority effects : implications for invasion and restoration in California coastal sage scrub

Exotic annual grasses are invading native plant communities in many areas including the western United States, and pose a significant challenge to habitat restoration. Observations in California grasslands suggest that exotic species may become active earlier in the growing season than native species, and that this distinct phenology may contribute to invasion success. We hypothesized that flexible germination cues may allow exotic annual grasses to start annual growth early each growing season and preempt resources prior to native seedling establishment, a kind of seasonal priority effect. Flexible germination cues could incur a cost, however, if they cause seeds to germinate before the onset of favorable growing conditions. To evaluate these predictions, we compared native and exotic species performance in a coastal sage scrub community under both early (off-season) and ambient (natural) rainfall timings. Exotic annual grasses germinated substantially with off- season watering, but none of the early seedlings survived until the onset of the natural rains. Exotic annual grasses that experienced off-season watering had a depleted seedbank and lower germination following the natural rains. In contrast, native species did not germinate following the off-season watering pulse, and instead emerged with the beginning of the cold natural rains. Our results suggest that phenology is an important factor influencing invasion success and invader impact. Under some conditions, pre-growing season watering could be an important restoration strategy for native plant communities in early stages of invasion by depleting the exotic seedbank and allowing for native species to establish with reduced competition
Utilizing Spiritual Lifemaps with LDS Clients: Enhancing Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice

Few people realize that the Latter-day Saints (LDS) or Mormon Church currently ranks as the fourth largest religious denomination in the United States. Although spirituality and religion play a central role in the beliefs, lifestyle, and culture, of many LDS clients, very few spiritual assessment tools have been validated with this population. Utilizing a mixed method design, this study modified an existing spiritual assessment tool—spiritual lifemaps—that may be particularly congruent with LDS client populations. A sample of recognized experts in LDS culture (N = 100) examined how consistent the spiritual lifemap assessment tool was with LDS culture, and how consistent the four sample question sets were with LDS culture. Overall, results indicate that the spiritual lifemap assessment tool is consistent with LDS clients’ beliefs, lifestyle, and culture. This study represents an important step at providing more culturally competent practice with LDS clients.
Modern Evidence on the Firm

In the main, empirical research is regarded as subordinate to theory. Theorists perform the difficult and innovative work of conceiving new and sometimes ingenious explanations for the world around us, leaving empiricists the relatively mundane task of gathering data and applying tools (supplied by theoretical econometricians) to support or reject hypotheses that emanate from the theory. To be sure, facts by themselves are worthless, “a mass of descriptive material waiting for a theory, or a fire,” as Ronald H. Coase (1984 p. 230), in characteristic form, dismissed the contribution of the oldschool institutionalists. But without diminishing in any way the creativity inherent in good theoretical work, it is worth remembering that theory without evidence is, in the end, just speculation. Two questions that theory alone can never answer are: First, which of the logically possible explanations for observed phenomena is the most probable? And second, are the phenomena that constitute the object of our speculations important? Modern empirical research on the firm, which dates to Kirk Monteverde and David J. Teece’s articles examining automotive procurement (1982a, b), is now substantial. Rather than try to summarize or discuss particular results of that literature, for which there are already several excellent surveys (the most recent of which is that of Christopher Boerner and Jeffrey Macher [2001]), my aim in the following is to comment more generally on the overall state of knowledge, particularly, the lessons that can be gleaned from the empirical literature about the relative usefulness of transaction-cost and agency theories of the firm and about the value of continued research on economic organization.
Prediction of reinjection effects in the Cerro Prieto geothermal system

The response of the Cerro Prieto geothermal field to different reinjection schemes is predicted using a two-dimensional vertical reservoir model with single- or two-phase flow. The advance of cold fronts and pressure changes in the system associated with the injection operations are computed, taking into consideration the geologic characteristics of the field. The effects of well location, depth and rates of injection are analysed. Results indicate that significant pressure maintenance effects may be realized in a carefully designed reinjection operation.
Brain orexins and wake regulation in rats exposed to maternal deprivation

Maternal deprivation (MD) is a neonatal stressor that leads to behavioral and molecular manifestations of chronic stress in adulthood. Recent evidence has suggested that stress may impact wake regulation through corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and the orexinergic system. We studied the wake/sleep features and brain levels of orexin and orexin receptors in adult rats neonatally subjected to either ten days of MD or a control procedure from postnatal day 4. At 3 months of age, one set of rats from both groups underwent 48 h of polysomnographic recording. All rats (including those that did not undergo surgery) were subsequently sacrificed for ELISA, radioimmunoassay and western blot measurement of orexins, orexin receptors and CRH in multiple brain regions. Neonatal MD induced an increase of total wake time (decreased total sleep) during the light period, which corresponds to human night time. This increase was specifically composed of quiet wake, while a small but significant decrease of active wake was observed during the dark period. At the molecular level, MD led to increased hypothalamic CRH and orexin A, and frontal cortical orexin 1 receptors (OX1R). However, hippocampal orexin B was reduced in the MD group. Our study discovered for the first time that the adult MD rat has sleep and neurobiological features of hyperarousal, which is typical in human insomnia. We concluded that neonatal MD produces adult hyperarousal in sleep physiology and neurobiology, and that the adult MD rat could be a model of insomnia with an orexinergic mechanism.
Meeting Acute Migraine Treatment Needs through Novel Treatment Formulations

Migraineurs often do not use acute migraine-specific medications. Patient-reported satisfaction with triptans is modest. Patients are generally interested in obtaining more rapid and complete symptom relief. The role of trigeminal vascular activation may explain why some patients fail to respond to current treatment. Novel formulations of currently available acute migraine treatments have been developed, with improved clinical outcomes, response times, and pain-free rates. Currently available effective, novel, acute migraine therapies include needle-free injectable sumatriptan and effervescent diclofenac. Orally inhaled dihydroergotamine is a new treatment modality. These novel formulations may help patients achieve desirable outcomes, including faster and more complete relief, more consistent response, and improved drug tolerability.
A direct method for solving crack growth problems—II. Shear mode problems

Abstract A direct method based on the boundary element equation approach was proposed in a previous paper (Li and Keer, 1992, Int. J. Solids Structures 29 , 2735–2747) to solve tensile crack growth problems for arbitrarily distributed loads. This method is extended to solve crack growth problems under an arbitrary shear loading. An equation is derived which gives an explicit relation between the crack front variation and the resulting changes in the energy release rate. This method is then applied to determine the yield zone of cracks having an assumed shear resistance of the Dugdale type. Numerical results show a significant Poisson's ratio effect of the material on the shape of the yield zone. Averaged quantities appear quantitatively similar to results from simpler approximations.
Inhibition of VTA neurons activates the centrally projecting Edinger-Westphal nucleus: evidence of a stress-reward link?

Abstract The primary site of urocortin 1 (Ucn1) expression in the brain is the centrally projecting Edinger–Westphal nucleus. The EWcp is innervated by dopaminergic neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). To investigate whether activity of EWcp is regulated by the VTA, we investigated the effects of local pharmacological inhibition of VTA activity on the induction of Fos immunoreactivity in the EWcp of male C57BL/6J mice. A unilateral intracranial administration of the GABA agonist muscimol aimed at the VTA resulted in increased number of Fos-positive cells in the EWcp. This induction was lower than that produced by an intraperitoneal injection of 2.5 g/kg of ethanol. To investigate whether inhibition of dopaminergic neurons was responsible for induction of Fos, a second experiment was performed where the dopamine agonist quinpirole was unilaterally injected targeting the VTA. Injections of quinpirole also significantly induced Fos in the EWcp neurons. The induction occurred only on the side of the EWcp ipsilateral to the VTA injection. These results indicate that activity of EWcp is inhibited by tonic activity of dopaminergic VTA neurons, and that unilateral projections of VTA onto Ucn1-containing EWcp neurons provide a link between systems regulating approach and avoidance behaviors.
Microscale determination of purines in tissue samples by capillary liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection

A microscale method for purines involved in intracellular signaling and energy metabolism, including ADP, ATP, cyclic-AMP, NADH and GTP, was developed. The analytes were separated on a fused-silica capillary liquid chromatography column (50 µm inner diameter by 25 cm long) packed with 7 µm reversed-phase particles and detected with a carbon fiber cylinder microelectrode at +1.50 V versus Ag/AgCl reference electrode. With an acetonitrile gradient, the separation was carried out within 15 min. With a 100 nl injection volume, the detection limits varied from 0.9 to 8 fmol depending upon the analyte. The low detection limits make the method suitable for analysis of small tissue samples. As a demonstration of the method, islets of Langerhans were analyzed for their adenosine-related messenger content.
Inactivation of Rho GTPases by Statins Attenuates Anthrax Lethal Toxin Activity

Anthrax lethal factor (LF), secreted by Bacillus anthracis, interacts with protective antigen to form a bipartite toxin (lethal toxin [LT]) that exerts pleiotropic biological effects resulting in subversion of the innate immune response. Although the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinases (MKKs) are the major intracellular protein targets of LF, the pathology induced by LT is not well understood. The statin family of HMG-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors have potent anti-inflammatory effects independent of their cholesterol-lowering properties, which have been attributed to modulation of Rho family GTPase activity. The Rho GTPases regulate vesicular trafficking, cytoskeletal dynamics, and cell survival and proliferation. We hypothesized that disruption of Rho GTPase function by statins might alter LT action. We show here that statins delay LT-induced death and MKK cleavage in RAW macrophages and that statin-mediated effects on LT action are attributable to disruption of Rho GTPases. The Rho GTPase-inactivating toxin, toxin B, did not significantly affect LT binding or internalization, suggesting that the Rho GTPases regulate trafficking and/or localization of LT once internalized. The use of drugs capable of inhibiting Rho GTPase activity, such as statins, may provide a means to attenuate intoxication during B. anthracis infection.
Changes in the spectrum of light scattered by a moving diffuser plate

An expression is derived for the effects of a uniformly moving diffuser plate on the far-zone spectrum of a polychromatic plane wave that is incident normally upon the plate. The expression clearly shows effects due to both the motion of the diffuser plate and the statistical properties of the plate. With a strong diffuser plate the spectrum of the scattered light is found to be essentially a Doppler-shifted version of the spectrum of the incident field, independent of the form of the correlation function of the plate. In the weak-diffuser limit it is found to depend on the fourth power of the frequency, on the correlation function of the diffuser plate, and on the speed with which the plate is moving.
What is the role of hysteroscopy in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding

Many otherwise healthy women will experience a significant disruption in lifestyle from abnormal uterine bleeding. Most of those seeking medical attention will not be at risk for developing anemia. In each case, a thorough search for underlying systemic, hormonal, and organic causes should be instituted. The use of blind endometrial sampling to evaluate the uterine cavity, by itself, is an inaccurate technique for diagnosing pathologic conditions commonly associated with menorrhagia, such as endometrial polyps, submucous myomata, and focal endometrial abnormalities including adenocarcinoma and its precursors. The supplementary application of diagnostic hysteroscopy with directed biopsy will ensure the recognition of these intracavitary lesions. The majority of women found to have endometrial polyps and submucous myomata can gain a successful reduction in their menstrual flow without hysterectomy by undergoing hysteroscopic removal of these lesions. Those without other uterine or pelvic pathology and who are closer to perimenopause are more likely to sustain long-lasting relief from these procedures. Medical therapy should be the first line of treatment for premenopausal women who are found to have no obvious cause for their abnormal uterine bleeding. Many of those who do not respond to, are unable to tolerate, or are unwilling to attempt this approach will undergo hysterectomy as the final answer. The absence of uterine pathology in most of these cases places an absolute demand on our specialty to innovate, and, whenever suited, to use more conservative surgical solutions. Our efforts to alter this behavior will undoubtedly be closely monitored by agents of managed care aiming to reward measures that reduce cost and improve the quality of care. The use of hysteroscopic ablation and resection to treat women suffering from intractable menorrhagia can safely and effectively reduce menstrual blood flow and should significantly curtail the performance of unnecessary hysterectomy. The comparative benefits and long-term advantages of these techniques beyond hysterectomy await the results of further studies. Furthermore, the risks of these hysteroscopic procedures to produce iatrogenic adenomyosis or to conceal or delay the usual signs of adenocarcinoma have yet to be ascertained. Vigilance for endometrial disease must not dwindle in the face of amenorrhea, as evidenced by a recent case report describing the development of endometrial carcinoma after 5 years of amenorrhea following endometrial electrocoagulation. Future methods of endometrial destruction for the control of abnormal uterine bleeding may include the nonhysteroscopic use of radio frequency, thermal transfer, hyperthermia, and photodynamic therapy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Visual monitoring of railroad grade crossing

There are approximately 261,000 rail crossings in the United States according to the studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). From 1993 to 1998, there were over 25,000 highway-rail crossing incidents involving motor vehicles - averaging 4,167 incidents a year. In this paper, we present a real-time computer vision system for the monitoring of the movement of pedestrians, bikers, animals and vehicles at railroad intersections. The video is processed for the detection of uncharacteristic events, triggering an immediate warning system. In order to recognize the events, the system first performs robust object detection and tracking. Next, a classification algorithm is used to determine whether the detected object is a pedestrian, biker, group or a vehicle, allowing inferences on whether the behavior of the object is characteristic or not. Due to the ubiquity of low cost, low power, and high quality video cameras, increased computing power and memory capacity, the proposed approach provides a cost effective and scalable solution to this important problem. Furthermore, the system has the potential to significantly decrease the number of accidents and therefore the resulting deaths and injuries that occur at railroad crossings. We have field tested our system at two sites, a rail-highway grade crossing, and a trestle located in Central Florida, and we present results on six hours of collected data.