cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the intrinsic structure of Yang-Mills fields

Abstract The intrinsic structure of Yang-Mills fields associated with an arbitrary finite-dimensional matrix Lie group and an arbitrary Lagrangian function is studied. The results are then specialized to the case of semisimple groups and gauge invariant Lagrangian functions. For the specialization, the Lie group becomes a gauge group that maps solutions onto solutions and hence defines an equivalence relation on the solution set. The resulting fiber space of solutions is shown to admit a canonical cross section consisting of all antiexact solutions. Thus any solution of the Yang-Mills field equations can be mapped onto an antiexact solution by the action of an appropriate gauge transformation, and two solutions can be mapped one onto the other only if their corresponding antiexact images are the same. It is further shown that every antiexact solution satisfies a matrix system of linear Riemann-Graves integral equations, and that any solution of the linear Riemann-Graves integral equations that satisfies a system of first-order integro-differential conditions constitutes a solution of the Yang-Mills field equations. The general solution of the linear integral equations is shown to be a power series expansion in the structure constants of the gauge group and the interaction current is shown to enter into the solution only in terms of its exact part.
Predictive sensitivity of human cancer cells in vivo using semipermeable polysulfone fibers.

An in vivo experimental model was developed to predict efficiently and accurately chemosensitivity of human tumors. Human cancer cells either from cultured cell lines or from patients’ tumors were injected directly into semipermeable polysulfone fibers subsequently implanted into immunocompetent rats. Results suggest utility of this novel model system for predicting tumor sensitivity to a wide range of anticancer agents and for potentially guiding the treatment of cancer patients in the clinical setting.
BET Bromodomain Inhibition Triggers Apoptosis of NF1-Associated Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors through Bim Induction

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are highly aggressive sarcomas that develop sporadically or in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) patients. There is no effective treatment for MPNSTs and they are typically fatal. To gain insights into MPNST pathogenesis, we utilized an MPNST mouse model that allowed us to study the evolution of these tumors at the transcriptome level. Strikingly, in MPNSTs we found upregulation of a chromatin regulator, Brd4, and show that BRD4 inhibition profoundly suppresses both growth and tumorigenesis. Our findings reveal roles for BET bromodomains in MPNST development and report a mechanism by which bromodomain inhibition induces apoptosis through induction of proapoptotic Bim, which may represent a paradigm shift in therapy for MPNST patients. Moreover, these findings indicate epigenetic mechanisms underlying the balance of anti- and proapoptotic molecules and that bromodomain inhibition can shift this balance in favor of cancer cell apoptosis.
CorrigendumCorrigendum to “Modulation of dendritic spines and synaptic function by Rac1: A possible link to fragile X syndrome pathology” [Brain Res. 1399 (2011) 79–95]

Department of Psychology, University of Houston, 126 Heyne Building, Houston, TX 77204, USAThis corrigendum relates to the Results, Section 2.2 Rac1 associa-tionwithlong-termsynapticplasticity (page82)aswellas Fig.5 (page87). In this figure, the concentration of the drug was erroneous,and the controls were similarly published in a previous manu-script (Martinez and Tejada-Simon, 2011). It was indicated thatanalogous control points cannot be duplicated herein. Thus,two panels from the original Fig. 5 have been removed and thepreviouspublicationreferencedtosupportreportedfindings.Ac-cordingly,theExperimentalProcedures Section4.9Electrophysi-ology (page 93) has been also corrected.Results Section 2.2 Rac1 association with long-term synapticplasticity (page 82) should read:Besides dendritic spine morphology, long-term plasticityhas been shown to be also altered in FXS. We and othershave suggested that Rac1 might be critical for these two phe-nomena (Haditsch et al., 2009; Martinez and Tejada-Simon,2011). Thus, searching for a connection between Rac1 andFXS, we next studied whether Rac1 is involved not only inLTP but also in LTD, and whether Rac1 inhibition alters thistype of plasticity. This is very relevant since an exaggeratedLTD is one of the strongest phenotypes observed in Fmr1knockout mice. In previous work by our laboratory, LTD wasinduced in hippocampal slices from wild-type mice treatedwith a Rac1 inhibitor, NSC23766 (Gao et al., 2004). LTD wasinduced either with low frequency stimulation (LFS) deliveredat 1 Hz for 15 min (Huber et al., 2001), or by treating the hippo-campal slices with 100 μM DHPG for 5 min in the presence ofthe N-methyl-
Relativity and Miller's Repetition of the Michelson-Morley Experiment

It is shown that Miller's results can be brought into accord with the relativity principle by assuming that space is anisotropic to the extent that the velocity of light traveling normal to the ecliptic is 16.7 cm/sec less than that of light traveling in the plane of the ecliptic. Possible causes of this anistropy are discussed.Space-time transformations are deduced for such an anisotropic space.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Arrhythmias

Advances in endocardial mapping techniques and ablation have greatly increased the indications for catheter-ablation of supraventricular arrhythmias. Rate or rhythm control is a valid treatment option for patients with atrial fibrillation; however, all patients with one or more risk factors should be treated with oral anticoagulants. The early success rate and long-term cure of atrial fibrillation by radiofrequency catheter ablation continues to increase. The number of centers offering this treatment option has increased substantially. Implantable defibrillator-cardioverters are the primary treatment modality for patients with ventricular tachycardia and their role in primary prevention is also being defined. Future advances in arrhythmia management will include improvements in catheter design and energy sources for ablation, and greater monitoring capacity of implantable devices.
Housing Homeless People: Local Mobilization of Federal Resources to Fight Nimbyism

Local sentiments are rarely favorable to human service facilities. City governments and neighborhood organizations frequently utilize zoning restrictions to exclude various community facilities, in...
Molecular Complexes of Halogens

Publisher Summary The color of iodine solutions varies with the nature of the solvent. The halogen is violet in media, such as the aliphatic hydrocarbons and carbon tetrachloride; in other solvents, including the alcohols and ethers, it is brown. The visible absorption maximum of the violet solutions is located in the 520-540 mp region and the over-all spectrum is similar to that of iodine in the vapor state. The maximum for brown solutions occurs at lower wavelengths (460-480 mp). Around the turn of the century, a number of explanations were proposed to account for the abnormal (non-violet) coloration. The possibility that it should be attributed to the formation of iodine dimers or more complex aggregates was discounted when Beckmann demonstrated, by cryoscopic methods, that dissolved iodine molecules are in the diatomic state regardless of the color of the solution. Alternatively, Beckmann suggested that the brown color was characteristic of solvent-solute addition products. Because of the variations in color of iodine solutions with changes in temperature, Lachman concluded that it is likely that the addition products are in equilibrium with the violet form of the halogen.
The relative allergenicity of Stachybotrys chartarum compared to house dust mite extracts in a mouse model

A report by the Institute of Medicine suggested that more research is needed to better understand mold effects on allergic disease, particularly asthma development. The authors compared the ability of the fungus Stachybotrys chartarum (SCE) and house dust mite (HDM) extracts to induce allergic responses in BALB/c mice. The extracts were administered by intratracheal aspiration (IA) at several doses (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 µg) 4 times over a 4-week period. Three days after the last IA exposure, serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected. The relative allergenicity of the extracts was evaluated based on the lowest dose that induced a significant response compared to control (0 μg) and the linear regression slope analysis across the dose range. SCE induced a more robust response than HDM for BALF some inflammatory cells (macrophage and neutrophils), whereas HDM induced more robust BALF lymphocyte and eosinophil responses. Although SCE induced a more robust serum total immunoglobulin ...
Root structural and functional dynamics in terrestrial biosphere models – evaluation and recommendations

There is wide breadth of root function within ecosystems that should be considered when modeling the terrestrial biosphere. Root structure and function are closely associated with control of plant water and nutrient uptake from the soil, plant carbon (C) assimilation, partitioning and release to the soils, and control of biogeochemical cycles through interactions within the rhizosphere. Root function is extremely dynamic and dependent on internal plant signals, root traits and morphology, and the physical, chemical and biotic soil environment. While plant roots have significant structural and functional plasticity to changing environmental conditions, their dynamics are noticeably absent from the land component of process-based Earth system models used to simulate global biogeochemical cycling. Their dynamic representation in large-scale models should improve model veracity. Here, we describe current root inclusion in models across scales, ranging from mechanistic processes of single roots to parameterized root processes operating at the landscape scale. With this foundation we discuss how existing and future root functional knowledge, new data compilation efforts, and novel modeling platforms can be leveraged to enhance root functionality in large-scale terrestrial biosphere models by improving parameterization within models, and introducing new components such as dynamic root distribution and root functional traits linked to resource extraction.
Data Organization and I/O in a Parallel Ocean Circulation Model

We describe an efficient and scalable parallel I/O strategy for writing out gigabytes of data generated hourly in the ocean model simulations on massively parallel distributed-memory architectures. Working with Modular Ocean Model, using netCDF file system, and implemented on Cray T3E, the strategy speeds up I/O by a factor of 50 in the sequential case. In parallel case, on 32 processors up to 512 processors, our implementation writes out most model dynamic fields of 969 MB to a single netCDF file in 65 seconds, independent of the number of processors. The remap-and-write parallel strategy resolves the memory limitation problem and requires minimal collective I/O capability of the file system. Several critical optimizations on memory management and file access are carried out, ensuring scalability and speeding up numerical simulation due to the improved memory organizations.
Toward Wall Modeling in Cartesian Grid Solver Using Overset Grid Technique for Ship Hydrodynamics

A Cartesian grid solver is coupled with an orthogonal curvilinear grid solver using overset grid interpolation and a coupled pressure Poisson solver. It aims at resolving the boundary layer on the body surface effectively. SUGGAR code, an overset grid assembly program, provides overset grid information of a Cartesian background grid and a thin orthogonal body-fitted grid to resolve the boundary layer on the surface. The overset grid information is used to interpolate velocity, pressure, turbulence quantities, and level set function. A coupled pressure Poisson equation is solved using PETSc. The coupled curvilinear/Cartesian grid solver has been applied to two-phase turbulent flows past a circular cylinder and has shown good agreement with the experimental data and the LES results in the literature. The solver is being applied to a free surface flow around Wigley’s parabolic hull form at Re = 3.4×106 and Fr = 0.25. The numerical results are promising compared to an experimental result of wave elevations at the same Fr.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
A composite core conductor for low sag at high temperatures

A new type of overhead conductor with a polymer composite core is evaluated in terms of the mechanical properties and operating characteristics. The conductor is composed of trapezoidal O'-tempered aluminum wires helically wound around a hybrid glass/carbon composite core produced by pultrusion. The conductor is intended for electrical power transmission, and is designated ACCC/TW, for aluminum conductor composite core/trapezoidal wire. Measurements of core properties and conductor sag at high temperatures were compared to conventional ACSR (aluminum conductor, steel-reinforced) of the same diameter. The tensile strength of the ACCC/TW was /spl sim/1.5 times greater than conventional ACSR of the same outer diameter. The CTE of the composite core was approximately 4 times lower than the steel core in ACSR. The ACCC/TW conductor exhibited a six-fold reduction in high-temperature sag compared with conventional ACSR (Drake) when operated at the same current. The ACCC/TW conductor also exhibited greater ampacity than ACSR conductor at all operating temperatures.
Chronic implementation of the flat interface nerve electrode

The Flat Interface Nerve Electrode (FINE) is a novel peripheral nerve electrode that reshapes the nerve into an ovoid geometry. Compared to cylindrical electrodes, this allows more contacts to be placed around the nerve, and moves deep fibers closer to the neural surface. Acute experiments have previously demonstrated that it is possible to selectively activate groups of fibers within individual fascicles using the FINE. In this study, the ability to achieve subfascicle level selectivity in a chronic setting has been investigated. A FINE was implanted on the right sciatic nerve of 6 cats, and selectivity measurements were made every 2 weeks. Subfascicle level selectivity was attainable throughout the implant period, but only in some of the fascicles tested. It is hoped that refinements in the electrode design may lead to more consistent selectivity across different nerve geometries.
Organoboranes for synthesis. 11.1 preparation of alkyl bromides in the dark reaction of bromine with organoboranes2,3 exceptional reactivity toward radical bromination of the alpha hydrogen in trialkylboranes

Abstract The reaction of the three isomeric tributylboranes (tri- n -butyl, triisobutyl and tri- sec -butyl) with bromine in the dark gives rise to both butyl bromide and hydrogen bromide when carbon tetrachloride is used as a solvent. The rate of disappearance of the borane and bromine are essentially equal and decreases in the order sec -butyl > n -butyl > isobutyl. However, the corresponding butyl bromide appears at a much slower rate and the formation of hydrogen bromide is quite rapid during the initial stages of the reaction. The amount of hydrogen bromide produced in the reaction reaches a peak in 1 h and then decreases with time. Similar results are obtained in cyclohexane. In methylene chloride, the rate of initial disappearance of bromine and tributylborane compares closely to the results obtained in carbon tetrachloride and cyclohexane. However, butyl bromide is formed with essentially the same rate as the rate of disappearance of the borane. Moreover, hydrogen bromide is formed in only minor amounts and the yields of alkyl bromides are high. In tetrahydrofuran, tri-n-butylborane and tri-sec-butylborane react at a rate similar to the rate similar to the rate of formation of the corresponding bromobutanes. This reaction is proposed to involve a slow, direct electrophilic attack of bromine, or its complex with THF, on tributylborane. Whereas in carbon tetrachloride, cyclohexane and methylene chloride, a fast, initially free-radical bromination, followed by a slow cleavage of the resulting a-bromoorganoborane with hydrogen bromide, takes place. Evidence supporting this mechanism is given. Competitive bromination studies reveal that the α-hydrogen in trialkylboranes is highly reactive toward free-radical bromination in the dark reaction. As an important synthetic application of this new reaction, the preparation of alkyl bromides is presented.
Sensitizing cancer cells to TRAIL-induced death by micellar delivery of mitoxantrone

TNFα-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) induces death selectively in cancer cells. However, subpopulations of cancer cells are either resistant to or can develop resistance to TRAIL-induced death. As a result, strategies that overcome this resistance are currently under investigation. We have recently identified several US FDA-approved drugs with TRAIL-sensitization activity against prostate, breast and pancreatic cancer cells. Mitoxantrone, a previously unknown TRAIL sensitizer identified in the screen, was successfully encapsulated in methoxy-, amine- and carboxyl-terminated PEG-DSPE micelles in order to facilitate delivery of the drug to cancer cells. All three micelle types were extensively characterized for their physicochemical properties and evaluated for their ability to sensitize cancer cells to TRAIL-induced death. Our results indicate that micelle-encapsulated mitoxantrone can be advantageously employed in synergistic treatments with TRAIL, leading to a biocompatible delivery system and amplified cell killing activity for combination chemotherapeutic cancer treatments.
Disaster Resiliency and Culture of Preparedness for University and College Campuses

Most universities and college campuses across the United States are engaged in developing policies, programs, and systems to reduce risks and maintain safety and security on their campuses. This article identifies key factors such as all-hazards comprehensive emergency plans, continuity of operations plans, emergency information management, leadership support, community partnerships, and training and certification programs that are important for creating disaster-resilient institutions and assessing how different colleges and universities across the country have developed and incorporated these key essentials to prepare for effective disaster response. Results show that developing an all-hazards plan, conducting regular training and exercises, and developing strong community partnerships are the most important elements for creating a disaster-resilient university, well prepared to tackle any calamity or tragedy. Language: en
Collection of Rete Testis Fluid from Rats Without Previous Efferent Duct Ligation

A method has been developed for collection of rete testis fluid from a rat efferent duct without prior efferent duct ligation. Flow rates averaged 0.64 ± 0.04 SD mI/mm. Pressure in the unligated efferent duct ranged from 1.8-4.5 cm H20. After 14 h of ligation, duct pressure reached 40 cm 1120. Emptying of the rete contents after 16-29 h of efferent duct ligation was biphasic with 30-40% of accumulated fluid draining within 40 mm and a further 20-40% imerging at a much slower rate over the next 4 h. Recovery of more than 60% of theoretical fluid stored within 5 h was rare. Sperm counts from 2 rats with unligated efferent ducts yielded sperm production rates of 28.2 and 34.4 X 10’ sperm/day. After 16-29 h efferent duct ligation sperm concentrations were highest in the initial drainage and fell by 3 1-78% during the early fast drainage phase. Testosterone concentration averaged 24.2 ± 4.0 SD and 20.0 ± 3.5 SD ng/ml for rats without and with efferent duct ligation respectively with no significant difference between the two groups. Testosterone concentration remained constant in successive volume increments of rete fluid after 16 h efferent duct ligation. When sufficient rete fluid volume was available for detection, concentrations of estradiol-17i3 averaged 248 ± 95 pg/mI in unligated rats and 68 ± 42 pg/mI in ligated rats (P<0.05). Additionally, estradiol-17a levels increased more than 5-fold during 3 h drainage of rete fluid after 23 h efferent duct ligation suggesting that estradiol secretion may be suppressed by efferent duct ligation. These studies suggest that collection of rete fluid from laboratory animals without recourse to efferent duct ligation may provide a more physiologic preparation for study of the fluid environment for testicular spermatozoa.
Correlates of effectiveness of learning networks: the effects of course level, course type, and gender on outcomes

Data for almost 2000 students allow us to contrast leaning outcomes for courses in three different modes of delivery (completely online, mixed, and completely on campus). The analyses are based on three different factors: course level (graduate vs. undergraduate), course type (more technical computer science and engineering courses vs. less technical courses in CIS, humanities, and management), and gender. In terms of final grades, we found that online students achieved higher grades than those in face-to-face (FtF) courses did. However, the perception of leaning was similar across conditions. We also found a significant interaction between mode and course level: graduate students in mixed mode courses reported the highest levels of perceived leaning. The results of the study enable us to further generalize the finding that ALN modes of delivery tend to produce results equal to or better than those for FtF modes of course delivery.
Using Film as a Tool for Teaching and Discussing Genocide

0 0 1 93 532 Virginia Tech Graduate School 4 1 624 14.0 Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} In this book review, I examine John J. Michalczyk and Raymond G. Helmick’s edited volume entitled T hrough a Lens Darkly: Films of Genocide, Ethnic Cleansing, and Atrocities. I assess the text as a tool for secondary educators who cover topics of genocide and mass atrocities in their classrooms, particularly the usefulness of the film essays and their ability to generate ideas for classroom discussion. While many resources and films exist for teaching the Holocaust, far fewer materials exist for educators who cover other genocides. Michalczyk and Helmick provide those teachers a place to begin resource building.
The Structures of Summer Convective Clouds in Eastern Montana. II: Effects of Artificial Seeding

Abstract The seeding of clouds in Miles City, Montana with AgI pyrotechnics at cloud tops generally produced large increases in ice particle concentrations, decreases in liquid water contents, and increases in precipitation particles lower down in the clouds. Similar, but even more pronounced, changes were observed when clouds were seeded with dry ice. Seeding with AgI-NH4I-acetone solution at cloud base generally did not produce observable changes in cloud microstructures at higher levels but in one case changes attributable to this type of seeding were observed. Comparisons of the structure of seeded clouds at Miles City with unseeded clouds suggests that the seeding of small and embedded cumulus clouds with dry ice to produce ice panicle concentrations of ∼1–10 l−1 may offer the best potential for enhancing precipitation.
Effect of Mechanical Sifting of Pupae on the α-Glycerophosphate Dehydrogenase Activity in Adults of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Agitation caused by the sifting used to separate pupae of tephritid flies from their pupation medium during a critical period in the pupal cycle may result in adults which cannot fly. The number of flies capable of flight increases with a progressive decrease in sifting intensities or duration. Alpha-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase (α-GPD) activity in fliers from unsifted pupae and in those from pupae sifted for 2 revolutions was > 10-fold higher than that in nonfliers sifted for 15 revolutions. A progressively lower α-GPD activity was found in fliers sifted as pupae for 5, 10, and 15 revolutions, respectively. “Sifted” fliers appear to be affected with subacute forms of the droopy wing syndrome.
Direct quantitation of methyl phosphonate adducts to human serum butyrylcholinesterase by immunomagnetic-UHPLC-MS/MS.

Hydrolysis of G- and V-series organophosphorus nerve agents (OPNAs) containing a phosphorus–methyl bond yields a methylphosphonic acid (MeP) product when adducted to human butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The MeP adduct is considered a sign of “aging” and results in loss of the o-alkyl identifier specific to each nerve agent. After aging has occurred, common therapeutics such as oximes cannot reactivate the cholinesterase enzyme and relieve cholinergic inhibition. Until now, a direct, quantitative method for determination of the MeP adduct to BChE was unavailable. Aged adducts in serum samples were processed by immunomagnetic separation of BChE by antibody conjugated bead, isotope-dilution, pepsin digestion, followed by UHPLC separation and detection by conventional electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). Ions were detected in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode, and transition m/z 874.3 → 778.3 was used for quantitation. The analytical response ratio was linearly proportional to th...
Biology of Megalotomus quinquespinosus (Hemiptera: Alydidae)

In southern Wisconsin, Megalotomus quinquespinosus (Say) overwinters in the egg and has 2 complete generations a year. These overlap from late June through August. Field-collected specimens were reared in 1-pint ice cream cartons covered with petri dish lids, and were fed red clover and soybean seeds. The preoviposition period was 6â14 days ($\bar x$ = 8.8), and females deposited 39â615 eggs ($\bar x$ = 237) ; the mean oviposition period was 59 days, with average production of 4 eggs per day. Males lived 38â187 days ($\bar x$ = 95) ; females, 32â134 days ($\bar x$ = 70). Frequent mating occurred, and eggs were released singly by the females. The âimmediateâ incubation period required 7â18 days ($\bar x$ = 13) ' the âdelayedâ (diapause) incubation period, 54â94 days ($\bar x$ = 81). Egg characters were recorded, and head capsules of exuviae of the 5 instars were measured; no overlapping between stages was noted. An average of 5 days was spent in each of the first 3 instars, 7 days in the fourth, and 10 clays in the fifth instar.
Shape and Size Optimal Design of Tear-off Tin Based on Creo Parametric Model

Shape and size optimal design of tear-off tin was carried out based on Creo Parametric behavior modeling with example.The optimal design of tear-off tin was performed with shape and size as variables,volume as constraint condition,minimal mass of metal as design goal.The method has the advantages of easy operation and reliable results.The purpose was to provide reference for optimal design of tear-off tin and other metal packaging containers.
Extraction of Rare Earth Oxides Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Modified with Tri-n-Butyl Phosphate–Nitric Acid Adducts

A new tri-n-butylphosphate–nitric acid (TBP–HNO3) adduct was prepared by combining TBP and fuming (90%) HNO3. The adduct was characterized, and its phase-equilibrium behavior in supercritical carbon dioxide is reported. Supercritical carbon dioxide (sc-CO2) was modified with this new adduct [TBP(HNO3)5.2(H2O)1.7], and the extraction efficacies of selected rare earth oxides (Y, Ce, Eu, Tb, and Dy) at 338 K and 34.5 MPa were compared with those obtained using an adduct formed from concentrated (70%) HNO3 and TBP [TBP(HNO3)1.7(H2O)0.6]. All rare earth oxides tested with both adduct species could be extracted with the exception of cerium oxide. The water and acid concentrations in the different adducts were found to play a significant role in rare earth oxide extraction efficiency.
Development of Executive Functions Implications for Educational Policy and Practice

Executive functions refer to top–down processes utilized in goal-directed behavior. Executive functions and academic achievement relate robustly, from early childhood through adolescence. Executive...
Our Uncommon Heritage: Strengthening the biodiversity-related multilateral agreements

Identifying the biodiversity-related multilateral agreements Nation states are not the only bodies capable of securing international environmental public goods, but they are still the most important. The standard approach to the provision of environmental public goods that span national boundaries is through multilateral agreements between nation states. The primary multilateral agreement for biodiversity change is the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). However, the CBD is only one among many multilateral agreements concerned with biodiversity change. There are several global agreements addressing different aspects of biodiversity conservation. Aside from the CBD these comprise the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources (ITPGRFA), the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, and the UNESCO World Heritage Convention (WHC). All are associated through the Biodiversity Liaison Group. But these agreements too are just the tip of the iceberg. The international environmental agreements database project lists 522 MEAs (plus 412 amendments and 196 protocols) signed in the last one hundred and fifty years, the earliest among them addressing the regulation of fisheries in the Rhine (1877) and the North Sea (1882, 1884), and measures to combat the phylloxera outbreak that devastated the vineyards of Europe in the late nineteenth century (1881, 1882). The list includes 255 agreements for the management of particular species or groups of species, 157 concerned with the conservation of flora and fauna, and 30 concerned with the conservation of landscapes, seascapes, and habitat (Mitchell, 2002–2012). Most of these agreements have been signed within the last fifty years, and nearly a third of all agreements, amendments, and protocols were signed during the 1990s (see Figure 13.1).
The Hands of Fossil Non-hominoid Anthropoids

While much attention has been given to the evolution of the hominoid hand, there has been less focus on the hand of other anthropoid primates. This is partly because our understanding of the anatomy, functional morphology, and evolution of the hand in non-hominoid anthropoid primates is hampered by the lack of adequate fossil material. Nevertheless, inclusion of these fossil taxa in a broader comparative study allows more reliable inferences about the traits that characterize the hands of ancestral catarrhine morphotypes. In addition, study of the hand bones of extinct anthropoid primates provides crucial evidence for assessing the evolution of locomotor behavior and foraging strategies. This contribution reviews the paleobiological and phylogenetic implications of fossilized hand remains of platyrrhines, parapithecoids, propliopithecoids, pliopithecoids, dendropithecoids, and cercopithecoids. By focusing on the most informative specimens, this contribution highlights how these fossils provide insight into the evolutionary history of hand form and function in non-hominoid anthropoid primates.
The Mechanical properties of monocrystalline nickel electrodeposits

The variation in the mechanical properties of monocrystalline nickel electrodeposits with thickness and orientation was determined by uniaxial tension testing. The yield and tensile strengths were independent of orientation and thickness exceeding 3 um. They increased with decreasing thickness less than 3 um. The longitudinal strain at fracture, that in the direction of the applied stress, increased with increasing thickness and was orientation dependent. The foil thickness adjacent to the fracture was the same for all samples. The causes of the properties were explained by the microstructure.
Smokeless Tobacco Decision-Making Among Rural Adolescent Males in California.

Smokeless tobacco (ST) use among US high school males living in rural areas exceeds national levels. Subgroups at heightened risk of ST use have been identified, but less is known regarding ST decision-making within high-risk groups. The study objective was to describe rural adolescent males’ perceived ST acceptability, health risks, and social implications and how those perceptions differ between ST users and never-users. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 55 male students (32 ST ever-users) at three rural California high schools. Interviews were audio recorded and professionally transcribed. Investigators collaboratively developed a codebook based on thematic content and then independently coded transcripts, reconvening frequently to achieve consensus. Coded text was systematically organized into themes following a general inductive approach. ST users and non-users shared multiple ST-related perceptions, including: that ST is a common, normative way of life in rural “country” culture among certain groups; that ST use conveys oral health risks; and that the decision to use (or not to use) is rooted in personal choice. ST users’ and never-users’ perceptions differed regarding the immediacy, severity, and inevitability of health risks, particularly relative to cigarette smoking. Other differences included perceived parental permissiveness and the expected social benefits of ST use, such as peer acceptance and conveying maturity. Within this population of rural male adolescents, ST users emphasized the social benefits of ST use, while acknowledging but discounting health risks. Differences and similarities in tobacco perceptions among adolescents living in similar environments may inform effective health communication.
The Need for Champions for Approximate Social Search

The world has recently witnessed several disasters, wherein the human cost of the catastrophe depended strongly on the delivery time of critical rescue information, mostly through strangers, on the location and status of individuals. Unfortunately, these are often situations wherein technology ceases to function. Pen-and-paper solutions then become the only viable option for information transfer. Both the propagation of information in networks and social search through traditional digital devices such as mobile phones and e-mails is well-documented in the literature. However, existing models usually fail to take into account the cost of the physical propagation of information. We report on the empirical results of a pen-and-paper system involving time-critical approximate social search. In particular, participants' goal is to locate and assess the status of other participants without further knowledge regarding their identity. We show that when there is a cost associated with information propagation, the network efficiency is mainly driven by the presence of strongly motivated individuals who actively seek to acquire and propagate information.
The Estimation of the Frequency of Rare Floods

Method suggested uses recorded monthly peak flood flows; it is shown that use of monthly peak flood flows approximates results obtained by using all peak flows but greatly reduces amount of work involved.
Abstract 149: Echocardiographic Reporting and Subsequent Referral to a Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic

Introduction: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common and often ominous finding in the echocardiographic evaluation of patients with cardiopulmonary complaints. As with all diagnostic imaging, the ...
Nitrogenases: Distribution, Composition, Structure and Function

Nitrogenase, the biological catalyst that reduces atmospheric N2 to ammonia, is present in widely diverse eubacteria and archaebacteria, but not in eukaryotes. The biological nitrogen-fixation process provides about 60% of the total production of fixed nitrogen from all natural and industrial sources (1). Since 1930 (2), molybdenum was believed to have an absolutely essential role in nitrogen fixation, even though early on vanadium was demonstrated to be almost as stimulatory as Mo to the growth of bacteria on N2 (3). Over the subsequent years, first through the development of the biochemistry and then later the genetics of nitrogen fixation, the essential nature of Mo solidified. The isolation of the larger component protein of nitrogenase, the MoFe protein (or component 1) (4), with its FeMo-cofactor (5), and the discovery of nitrogen-fixation specific (nif) genes involved in Mo-specific functions, which were often found to be linked to and co-regulated with the nitrogenase structural genes, supported the supposed absolute requirement for Mo. It is clear now, however, that Mo is not essential for biological nitrogen fixation.
Flow simulation and optimal shape design of N3-X hybrid wing body configuration using a body force method

Abstract System studies show that NASA's N3-X hybrid wing-body aircraft with a turboelectric distributed propulsion system using a mail-slot inlet/nozzle nacelle can meet the environmental and performance goals of N + 3 generation transports (three generations beyond the current air transport technology level). In this paper, we present flow calculations and shape optimization of the integrated N3-X configuration, including the mail-slot propulsor, based on an unstructured-mesh Navier–Stokes solver. To simulate the propulsor fans flow, a novel body force model is suggested for a realistic and efficient representation of flow turning, pressure rise and losses resulting from the fan blades and the inlet-fan interactions for distorted inflow conditions. This work is the first of its kind analysis and design study on boundary layer ingestion inlet and fan interaction problems using the body force method. A mail-slot geometry was generated and installed on the N3-X configuration with an efficient CAD-free method. An optimal shape design of the mail-slot nacelle surface with the adjoint method was successfully conducted to reduce the strength of shock waves and flow separations on the cowl surface.
Knowledge and attitudes toward transgender health.

Background Hormonal interventions for transgender adolescents have become increasingly common; however, there is a paucity of research on medical student knowledge of, and attitudes toward, these interventions following didactic instruction. Furthermore, no studies have examined whether students can be aware of the literature on the mental health benefits of these treatments yet continue to find them unethical. Methods An anonymous online survey was administered to students, from first to fourth year (n = 407), who had received one or two lectures on the treatment of youths with gender dysphoria (GD). Results Surveys were completed by 162 respondents (40%). A majority was able to correctly answer questions regarding psychiatric co-morbidities, diagnostic criteria, hormonal interventions, long-term benefits of interventions and terminology. There was some evidence that precision in the use of terminology waned over time. Many were unclear on the role of puberty blockers and the time requirement for a diagnosis of GD. A minority (14%) reported a belief that hormonal therapy is unethical, although these same individuals recognised that these treatments have mental health benefits. Discussion Our results have implications for future instruction, including: the need to teach pharmacological and diagnostic issues more deliberately; providing refresher training on terminology; and relying on interactive discussion or patient visits, rather than didactic lectures alone, for ethically charged medical topics. Similar levels of knowledge among students who believe that hormonal therapy is ethical and unethical may indicate that imparting didactic knowledge about therapeutic benefits alone may not be sufficient to affect attitudes regarding endocrine care for transgender youth. Hormonal interventions for transgender adolescents have become increasingly common.
A participação do público na recirculação jornalística em sites de rede social: implicações para o jornalismo

O artigo discute as implicacoes para o jornalismo da recirculacao jornalistica nos sites de rede social. A recirculacao e entendida como uma subetapa do processo jornalistico, na qual os usuarios participam da etapa de circulacao de noticias ao filtrar, comentar e avaliar noticias. No ambiente digital, isso pode ser observado especialmente nos sites de rede social. O artigo apresenta a definicao de recirculacao jornalistica e discute algumas de suas implicacoes atraves de exemplos ilustrativos.
Teacher Candidates’ Incoming Beliefs About Teaching: Comparing Catholic Service-Learning and Traditional Programs

This study analyzes a range of professional beliefs held by a sample of incoming teacher candidates in the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE), a service-learning teacher education program at the University of Notre Dame, and a sample of preservice teachers in a traditional teacher education program at a state university. The key dependent variables in this study are preservice teachers’ sense of professional responsibility and self-efficacy beliefs regarding the intellectual and moral aspects of their teaching. Findings indicate that ACE teacher candidates hold a greater sense of responsibility for helping disadvantaged students academically and for fostering all children’s moral growth compared to their counterparts in the traditional program. This study is the first stage in a longitudinal research project that explores the effectiveness of ACE’s model of teacher education in preparing professionally competent and responsible teachers.
Case Report: Cholelithiasis in Severe Mediterranean (Cooley’s) Anemia

A case of cholelithiasis is reported in a child with the severe form of Mediterranean anemia. The patient was one of a group of children with this disease but without biliary tract symptoms on whom a roentgenographic survey was carried out. Cholecystitis subsequently occurred in this patient, and a cholecystectomy was performed. Cholelithiasis occurs as a complication of severe Mediterranean anemia, less frequently than in spherocytic or in sickle cell anemia but on a comparable etiologic basis.
Pendular Motion and Harmony

Buoyancy and drag are fundamentally different forces, and hence affect falling bodies differently. The former depends on the ratio of the densities of the medium and the falling object; the latter depends on the tenacity, stickiness, or viscosity of the medium. Galileo’s recognition of this distinction was earned—at least in part—by carefully examining the motion of swinging pendulums. These observations also led him to the striking observation that the period of a pendulum depends neither on the mass of the pendulum, nor on the angle through which it swings, but only on the length of the pendulum string itself. In the reading selection that follows, Salviati, Simplicio and Sagredo continue their previous discussion of pendular motion, but now with the aim of answering a seemingly unrelated question: why is it that certain combinations of sounds are pleasing to the ear, while others are not? For Galileo, whose father was a skilled musician and composer, the motion of a swinging pendulum provided a key insight into the nature of harmony.
Imagined communities and identities: A spaciotemporal discourse analysis of one woman's literacy journey

Abstract This study investigates the narratives of Marla, a 25-year old bilingual and biliterate transnational Latina mother. Data for this study came from an overarching ethnographic narrative inquiry study that investigated how five women tutors in a neighborhood literacy initiative constructed, enacted, and expressed their literacy identities. Marla's narratives illuminated a spatial and temporal framework that warranted a closer, more nuanced look at how she positioned herself in time and space. The authors inquired into what Marla's narratives suggested about her constructions of literacy and identity. Specifically, we focus on Marla's use of deictics, which illuminated a sophisticated storying of self that she used to position herself as a global citizen, a good student, and a mature family woman. Findings highlight how Marla restoried herself, constructing a new “now” self that she actualized in the present as she imagined a new future for her and her family.
Ultrastructure--critical domain for wood behavior. Its origins, current concepts, future potential.

That the behavior of wood in service results from its “structure” is generally accepted by wood scientists. No doubt this acceptance is due to the broad interpretation of such a term. Structure can refer to the organization of elements on a macro scale, such as in a laminated beam, as well as to the arrangement of cellulose molecules in the crystalline region of an elementary fibril.
Acute salivary cortisol response among Mexican American adolescents in immigrant families

OBJECTIVES Though previous research has indicated that language brokering can be stressful, the findings are mixed, pointing to potential moderators of the association. Guided by an ecological perspective, we examined the role of individual, family, and environmental factors in Mexican American adolescents' acute cortisol responses to language brokering. METHOD The study consisted of 46 Mexican American adolescents recruited around a metropolitan city in Central Texas. Participants translated a difficult medical document from English to Spanish for their parents, followed by an arithmetic task (modeled after the Trier Social Stress Test [TSST]). Participants' perceptions (perceived efficacy and parental dependence), parental hostility, and discrimination experiences were assessed via self-report and were examined as moderators of adolescents' responses to the task. RESULTS Results revealed differential responses to the task based on individual, family, and environmental factors. High efficacy and low dependence-parental hostility-discrimination related to stress responses characterized by low baselines, steeper reactivity, and faster recovery. Low efficacy and high dependence related to greater baseline stress and a slower recovery. High levels of parental hostility related to a slower recovery. High levels of discrimination related to greater baseline stress. CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrates that the modified TSST task can elicit an acute hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis response, but the nature of this response is dependent upon participants' perceptions of language brokering (parental dependence and efficacy), parental hostility, and discrimination experiences. Adolescents' individual characteristics and contextual demands remain important considerations in understanding their acute stress responses. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
Ambiguous Loss and Its Disenfranchisement: The Need for Social Work Intervention:

Ambiguous grief results from a nondeath loss and has received minimal attention in the social work literature. This type of loss occurs in situations like missing persons, incarceration, military d...