cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparative Studies on Plastoquinones: V. Changes in Lipophilic Chloroplast Quinones during Development.

Changes of lipophilic chloroplast quinones in corn, oats, peas, and Vicia faba are reported after 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72, or 96 hours of exposure to light. There is a pronounced increase in plastoquinone A and chlorophyll levels and slight increase, in plastoquinone C(1-6), vitamin K(1), and alpha-tocopherylquinone content. Coenzyme Q levels, on the other hand, show little change upon exposure to light.THE SEQUENCE IN WHICH INDIVIDUAL QUINONES APPEAR DURING DEVELOPMENT IS AS FOLLOWS: plastoquinone A instantaneously after exposure to light, plastoquinone C(1-6) from 4 to 24 hours, vitamin K(1) from 12 to 24 hours, alpha-tocopherylquinone from 0 to 24 hours of illumination. Small amounts (<0.01 mumole/g, dry wt) of plastoquinone A and plastoquinone B are found in seeds and etiolated tissues. After exposure to light, the quinone tentatively identified as a member of the plastoquinone B series by reverse phase thin layer chromatography disappears and can be detected again in small amounts during maturity and toward senescence of the leaf.
Online Survey of Radiologic Ordering Practices by Pediatric Trainees

Objective The ACR has developed appropriateness criteria to ensure that patients are receiving appropriate imaging studies. The purpose of this study was to compare the imaging ordering practices of pediatric residents in specific clinical scenarios with the ACR Appropriateness Criteria ® . Materials and Methods A multiple-choice questionnaire was created using 10 clinical scenarios excerpted from the ACR Appropriateness Criteria. The questionnaire was sent to 69 pediatric residents (postgraduate years 1-3) at Children's Hospital of New York at Columbia University Medical Center (CHONY) and then to 75 pediatric residents at The Children's Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center (CHAM). The responses were compared with the ACR Appropriateness Criteria. Results Seventy-five and 69 pediatric residents from the CHAM and CHONY, respectively, were invited to participate in the survey. Thirty-nine individual responses (52%) were received from CHAM, and 41 (59%) were received from CHONY. A total of 27 responses were received from first-year residents, 28 from second-year residents, and 25 from third-year residents. The average number of questions answered incorrectly by first-year residents was 4.1, by second-year residents was 4.4, and by third-year residents was 4.5. Conclusions This study demonstrates that residents appreciate the value of an imaging workup, but these examinations are often ordered without the consultation of a radiologist. The decision each resident makes reflects individual training. To improve residents' ability to make decisions regarding imaging examinations, radiologists must educate pediatric residents with uniform case-based and didactic sessions.
Geometric models for the spectra of certain Gelfand pairs associated with Heisenberg groups

Let K be a compact Lie group acting on a finite dimensional Hermitian vector space V via some unitary representation. Now K acts by automorphisms on the associated Heisenberg group $${H_V=V \times \mathbb{R}}$$ , and we say that (K, H V ) is a Gelfand pair when the algebra $${L^1_K(H_V)}$$ of integrable K-invariant functions on H V commutes under convolution. In this situation an application of the Orbit Method yields a injective mapping $${\Psi}$$ from the space Δ(K, H V ) of bounded K-spherical functions on H V to the space $${\mathfrak{h}_V^{*}/K}$$ of K-orbits in the dual of the Lie algebra for H V . We prove that $${\Psi}$$ is a homeomorphism onto its image provided that the action of K on V is “well-behaved” in a sense made precise in this work. Our result encompasses a widely studied class of examples arising in connection with Hermitian symmetric spaces.
Mass-balance and mass-transfer in migmatites from the Colorado Front Range

Metasomatic exchanges between the infiltrating fluids and wall rocks most likely initiated the formation of nine leucosomes in two large samples of the Precambrian biotite-quartz-feldspar migmatites from the east-central Colorado Front Range. The leucosomes, 2 to 20 mm thick and enclosed in mafic salvages 1 to 10 mm thick, are granitic to tonalitic in composition. Mass-balance calculations suggest that each leucosome formed by local introduction of mass. The net gains and losses calculated assuming that all such gains and losses were contained within the leucosome show that, in general, neither the gains nor the losses fit the composition of any silicate melt. It is more likely that the components were transported in a fluid. Recalculated on constant Al basis, the most significant relative mass transfers were gain of K and losses of Na and Mg by the rocks. The metasomatic reactions calculated are those for replacement of plagioclase by microcline and breakdown of biotite. The reactions must have been the cause of incipient migmatization. A mafic selvage formed from the paleosome by the loss of material whose composition is tonalitic to granodioritic varying systematically with the paleosome composition.
Passive active L- and S-band (PALS) microwave sensor for ocean salinity and soil moisture measurements

A passive/active WS-band (PALS) microwave aircraft instrument to measure ocean salinity and soil moisture has been built and tested. Because the L-band brightness temperatures associated with salinity changes are expected to be small, it was necessary to build a very sensitive and stable system. This new instrument has dual-frequency, dual polarization radiometer and radar sensors. The antenna is a high beam efficiency conical horn. The PALS instrument was installed on the NCAR C-130 aircraft and soil moisture measurements were made in support of the Southern Great Plains 1999 experiment in Oklahoma from July 8-14, 1999. Data taken before and after a rainstorm showed significant changes in the brightness temperatures, polarization ratios and radar backscatter, as a function of soil moisture. Salinity measurement missions were flown on July 17-19, 1999, southeast of Norfolk, VA, over the Gulf Stream. The measurements indicated a clear and repeatable salinity signal during these three days, which was in good agreement with the Cape Hatteras ship salinity data. Data were also taken in the open ocean and a small decrease of 0.2 K was measured in the brightness temperature, which corresponded to the salinity increase of 0.4 psu measured by the M/V Oleander vessel.
Data point selection for piecewise linear curve approximation

Abstract A method for selecting data points from a finite set of curve points is discussed. The given curve points originate from a smooth curve and are weighted with respect to a local curvature measure. The most significant points are selected and used to approximate the curve. The selected subset of data points is distributed in such a way that they are uniformly distributed with respect to integrated absolute curvature. The technique is tested for various planar curves and is applied to 2D image compression and volume visualization.
Onk-order harmonic new better than used in expectation distributions

Definitions ofk-HNBUE andK-HNWUE are introduced and the relationship with other class of life distributions is studied. Various closure properties ofk-HNBUE (k-HNWUE) are proved. Finally bounds on the moments and survival function ofk-HNBUE (k-HNWUE) are given.
Dispersal characteristics of two native and two nonnative fleshy-fruited sympatric shrubs.

ABSTRACT Aspects of the dispersal characteristics of two nonnative shrubs, Elaeagnus umbellata and Ligustrum sinense, were compared with those of two native shrubs, Cornus amomum and Frangula caroliniana, to identify factors that contribute to successful invasion of the nonnative species. For each species, the following aspects were examined: shrub abundance, physical characteristics and nutritional values of fruits, arrangement of fruits along the stem and number of fruits per branch, phenology of fruit maturation and foliage coloration, and animal interactions. The two native shrubs and E. umbellata were similar in abundance, but L. sinense was significantly more abundant than the others. Cornus amomum and F. caroliniana present bicolored displays of fruits that are rapidly dispersed during autumn avian migration. Elaeagnus umbellata produces moisture- and protein-rich fruits during summer that are also rapidly removed. In contrast, L. sinense produces high numbers of fruits in late autumn that remain a...
ANISOTROPIC METAMATERIALS FOR FIELD ENHANCEMENT AND NEGATIVE INDEX APPLICATIONS

1D highly anisotropic periodic structures can exhibit very large internal field enhancements and positive spectral phase slopes. The field enhancement can lead to significant external fields radiating from the structure close to frequencies at which the spectral phase slope changes sign and where an effective negative index regime can occur.
Desensitization of Chemokine Receptor CCR5 in Dendritic Cells at the Early Stage of Differentiation by Activation of Formyl Peptide Receptors

Chemokine receptors are subjected to heterologous desensitization by activation of formyl peptide receptors. We investigated the cross-talk between formyl peptide receptors and the chemokine receptor CCR5 in human monocyte-differentiated immature dendritic cells (iDC). Monocytes cultured with GM-CSF and IL-4 for 4 days exhibit markers characteristic of iDC and maintain the expression of both formyl peptide receptors FPR and FPRL1, as well as CCR5. Pretreatment of iDC with W peptide (WKYMVm), a potent agonist for FPR and FPRL1 but with preference for FPRL1, resulted in down-regulation of CCR5 from the cell surface and reduced cell response to the CCR5 ligands through a PKC-dependent pathway. Furthermore, W peptide induced a PKC-dependent phosphorylation of CCR5 and inhibited infection of iDC by R5 HIV-1. Our results indicate that the expression and functions of CCR5 in iDC can be attenuated by W peptide, which activates formyl peptide receptors, and suggest an approach to the design of novel anti-HIV-1 agents.
Revisiting the Origins of the Typical-Maximum Performance Distinction

I cannot begin to describe my delight at having the opportunity to write this introduction to the special issue on typical versus maximum performance. It's humbling to realize that a paper you've written emerges as the seminal paper that starts a new line of research. But that appears to be the case: The notion of differentiating between typical and maximum performance on the criterion side of the equation is generally credited to Sackett, Zedeck, and Fogli (1988).
Rationale and design of a brief substance use intervention for homeless adolescents

The rationale and design for a brief feedback and motivational intervention for substance use among homeless adolescents is described. Homeless adolescents use substances at extremely high rates compared to other youth, and experience considerable negative consequences as a result. Yet homeless adolescents are not reached by, or are not responsive to, traditional prevention and treatment programs for substance use and abuse. The rationale for the use of brief feedback interventions is reviewed, and one such program that was designed to reduce substance use risk among homeless youth is described. The intervention is consistent with tenants of harm reduction in its effort to encourage engagement via its structure, minimal demands, and flexible clinical strategies and goals. Modifications made to the intervention based on lessons learned from an initial trial are described, and highlight the importance of tailoring harm reduction programs to facilitate engagement based on clients’ life circumstances, availab...
Efficient solution of the inverse Levinson problem in the multichannel case via the Lyapunov equation

A new efficient method for solving the discrete Lyapunov equation when the system matrix is block companion is presented; hence for solving the equivalent inverse Levinson problem in the multichannel case (constructing ladder realizations for a given matrix autoregressive (AR) model). The condition for the existence of a unique solution is specified. In addition, nice generalizations of some results of the scalar case are obtained.
A simple cosmic-ray veto shield for low-rate neutron measurements

Abstract A cosmic-ray veto shield for the University of Notre Dame neutron wall has been constructed in order to carry out low-rate neutron time-of-flight (TOF) measurements. The veto detector employs plastic scintillator embedded with wavelength-shifting fibers and is read out by a versatile coupling to standard photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). This veto shield is effective at reducing the muon background by about one order of magnitude and therefore increases the sensitivity for experiments with low neutron yields. The 26Mg(3He,n)28Si reaction was used as a testbed for the veto.
Effects of graphite fiber and epoxy matrix physical properties on the temperature profile in a composite during cure

An investigation was carried out into the effects of graphite fiber and epoxy matrix physical properties on the temperature profile in their laminates during cure. An accurate prediction of the temperature profile within a composite is of paramount importance in determining the processing conditions. In this study, a model for the temperature profile was established first. Then, three physical parameters of composites that change during cure, namely, density, heat capacity, and thermal conductivity, were varied in magnitude, and the ensuing effect on the temperature profile was examined. The range of their variation was based upon the values measured in the laboratory as well as those reported in the literature. Changes in the neat resin thermal conductivity were found to significantly influence the temperature profile. 17 refs.
Is the Pharmacological Mode of Action of Chromium(III) as a Second Messenger

Although recent studies have shown that chromium (as the trivalent ion) is not an essential trace element, it has been demonstrated to generate beneficial effects at pharmacologically relevant doses on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels of rodent models of insulin insensitivity, including models of type 2 diabetes. The mode of action of Cr(III) at a molecular level is still an area of active debate; however, the movement of Cr(III) in the body, particularly in response to changes in insulin concentration, suggests that Cr(III) could act as a second messenger, amplifying insulin signaling. The evidence for the pharmacological mechanism of Cr(III)’s ability to increase insulin sensitivity by acting as a second messenger is reviewed, and proposals for testing this hypothesis are described.
Quality of Life, Quality of the Individual, Technology and Economic Development

Abstract. Technological advance, quality of life and quality of the person as well as the interaction among them are at the heart of a meaningful theory of socioeconomic development. The complexity and hierarchical structure of the quality of life concept can be related to Maslow's study of human needs and economists’theory of human wants. The implicit assumption of the direct positive relationship between quality of life and quality of the person is challenged. The possibility of an inverse relationship between them is stated and illustrated. If the ultimate purpose of improving quality of life is moral perfection (homo humanis), then optimal quality of life is one which leads to attainment of this goal. Freedom, seen by Maslow as a necessary precondition for satisfaction of all other needs, is defined as voluntary subjection to the highest value. The search for truth—the only way to set a person free—takes the form of Hegelian dialectics. Theoretically, the high quality of people can be attained either by “Hegelian path” via coercion, or “Hegelian path” via freedom. Historically, the former utterly failed, while the latter, though highly desirable, is neither impossible nor assured.
Biologic Characterization of Chicken-Derived H6N2 Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses in Chickens and Ducks

SUMMARY. Low pathogenic avian influenza H6N2 viruses were biologically characterized by infecting chickens and ducks in order to compare adaptation of these viruses in these species. We examined the clinical signs, virus shedding, and immune response to infection in 4-wk-old white leghorn chickens and in 2-wk-old Pekin ducks. Five H6N2 viruses isolated between 2000 and 2004 from chickens in California, and one H6N2 virus isolated from chickens in New York in 1998, were given intrachoanally at a dose of 1 3 10 6 50% embryo infectious dose per bird. Oral–pharyngeal and cloacal swabs were taken at 2, 4, and 7 days postinoculation (PI) and tested by real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction for presence of virus. Serum was collected at 7, 14, and 21 days PI and examined for avian influenza virus antibodies by commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) testing. Virus shedding for all of the viruses was detected in the oral–pharyngeal swabs from chickens at 2 and 4 days PI, but only three of the five viruses were detected at 7 days PI. Only two viruses were detected in the cloacal swabs from the chickens. Virus shedding for four of the five viruses was detected in the oral–pharyngeal cavity of the ducks, and fecal shedding was detected for three of the viruses (including the virus not shed by the oral–pharyngeal route) in ducks at 4 and 7 days PI. All other fecal swabs from the ducks were negative. Fewer ducks shed virus compared to chickens. Both the chickens and the ducks developed antibodies, as evidenced by HI and ELISA titers. The data indicate that the H6N2 viruses can infect both chickens and ducks, but based on the number of birds shedding virus and on histopathology, the viruses appear to be more adapted to chickens. Virus shedding, which could go unnoticed in the absence of clinical signs in commercial chickens, can lead to transmission of the virus among poultry. However, the viruses isolated in 2004 did not appear to replicate or cause more disease than earlier virus isolates.
Implications of complex adaptive systems theory for interpreting research about health care organizations.

Rationale Data about health care organizations (HCOs) are not useful until they are interpreted. Such interpretations are influenced by the theoretical lenses used by the researcher. Objective Our purpose was to suggest the usefulness of theories of complex adaptive systems (CASs) in guiding research interpretation. Specifically, we addressed two questions: (1) What are the implications for interpreting research observations in HCOs of the fact that we are observing relationships among diverse agents? (2) What are the implications for interpreting research observations in HCOs of the fact that we are observing relationships among agents that learn? Methods We defined diversity and learning and the implications of the non-linear relationships among agents from a CAS perspective. We then identified some common analytical practices that were problematic and may lead to conceptual and methodological errors. Then we described strategies for interpreting the results of research observations. Conclusions We suggest that the task of interpreting research observations of HCOs could be improved if researchers take into account that the systems they study are CASs with non-linear relationships among diverse, learning agents. Our analysis points out how interpretation of research results might be shaped by the fact that HCOs are CASs. We described how learning is, in fact, the result of interactions among diverse agents and that learning can, by itself, reduce or increase agent diversity. We encouraged researchers to be persistent in their attempts to reason about complex systems and learn to attend not only to structures, but also to processes and functions of complex systems.
Improved Method for the Stabilization of Anthocyanidins

Anthocyanidins, prepared by the acid hydrolysis of black bean and blackberry anthocyanins, were deposited in C18 solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges from four different manufacturers. The amoun...
Allocation of complex, sequential operants on multiple and concurrent schedules of reinforcement

Pigeons could produce food by pecking exactly four times on each of two keys, in any order. In the first experiment, these response sequences were reinforced on a series of multiple schedules of variable-interval reinforcement. In the second experiment, these response sequences were reinforced on a series of concurrent schedules of reinforcement. In both experiments, highly stereotyped response sequences developed. If these response sequences were treated as individual responses, the resulting data conformed to what is typically reported in studies of multiple and concurrent schedules involving individual responses. For example, behavioral contrast was observed with the multiple schedules, and matching was observed with the concurrent schedules. However, schedule manipulation had no effect on within-sequence characteristics of responses like accuracy, stereotypy, or rate. These data constitute further evidence that response sequences can become functional behavioral units.
Recent Advances in Glycerol Polymers: Chemistry and Biomedical Applications

Glycerol polymers are attracting increased attention due to the diversity of polymer compositions and architectures available. This article provides a brief chronological review on the current status of these polymers along with representative examples of their use for biomedical applications. First, the underlying chemistry of glycerol that provides access to a range of monomers for subsequent polymerizations is described. Then, the various synthetic methodologies to prepare glycerol-based polymers including polyethers, polycarbonates, polyesters, and so forth are reviewed. Next, several biomedical applications where glycerol polymers are being investigated including carriers for drug delivery, sealants or coatings for tissue repair, and agents possessing antibacterial activity are described. Fourth, the growing market opportunity for the use of polymers in medicine is described. Finally, the findings are concluded and summarized, as well as the potential opportunities for continued research efforts are discussed.
Identification of New Viral Genes and Transcript Isoforms during Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation using RNA-Seq

Using an enhanced RNA-Seq pipeline to analyze Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) transcriptomes, we investigated viral and cellular gene expression in the Akata cell line following B-cell-receptor-mediated reactivation. Robust induction of EBV gene expression was observed, with most viral genes induced >200-fold and with EBV transcripts accounting for 7% of all mapped reads within the cell. After induction, hundreds of candidate splicing events were detected using the junction mapper TopHat, including a novel nonproductive splicing event at the gp350/gp220 locus and several alternative splicing events at the LMP2 locus. A more detailed analysis of lytic LMP2 transcripts showed an overall lack of the prototypical type III latency splicing events. Analysis of nuclear versus cytoplasmic RNA-Seq data showed that the lytic forms of LMP2, EBNA-2, EBNA-LP, and EBNA-3A, -3B, and -3C have higher nuclear-to-cytoplasmic accumulation ratios than most lytic genes, including classic late genes. These data raise the possibility that at least some lytic transcripts derived from these latency gene loci may have unique, noncoding nuclear functions during reactivation. Our analysis also identified two previously unknown genes, BCLT1 and BCRT2, that map to the BamHI C-region of the EBV genome. Pathway analysis of cellular gene expression changes following B-cell receptor activation identified an inflammatory response as the top predicted function and ILK and TREM1 as the top predicted canonical pathways.
Carrier dynamics and defects in MOVPE-grown bulk InGaAs layers with metamorphic InGaAs and InGaPSb buffer layers for solar cells

Bulk InGaAs layers with a 1eV band-gap grown on GaAs substrates are attractive for high efficiency multi-junction solar cells. However, a large amount of lattice mismatch between bulk InGaAs layer and GaAs substrate necessitates development of novel metamorphic buffer layers (MBL). A number of research groups have reported various MBLs for applications including HBTs, HEMTs, lasers, and solar cells. In this study, we report carrier dynamics and defects in MOVPE-grown bulk InGaAs layers (E g = ~ 1.0 - 1.1 eV at 300K) with two different types of MBLs including InGaAs and InGaPSb. We also report the effect of chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) process on carrier lifetimes and the properties of the films subsequently grown on top of the MBL. We employed time-resolved photoluminescence (TR-PL) techniques to study carrier dynamics in InxGa1-xAs samples with and without the CMP process and a high resolution TEM to study defects in various structures.
Characterization of high affinity binding sites for vasopressin in bovine adrenal medulla

Abstract A crude membrane fraction prepared from bovine adrenal medulla bound tritium labeled arginine-vasopressin ( 3 H-AVP) in a time and temperature dependent manner. Physiological concentrations of Mg 2+ (1–3 mmol/l) were required for the binding reaction, while Ca 2+ (5–80 mmol/l) had no effect. The reaction was saturable and reversible. Scatchard plots of the data suggested the presence of a single class of high affinity (K d =0.41 nmol/l) and low capacity (B max =26 fmol/mg protein) binding sites. The specificity of the binding reaction was examined using various structural analogs of AVP which displaced 3 H-AVP. Arginine-vasotocin proved to be equipotent with AVP, while oxytocin and 1-deamino, 8-D-arginine-vasopressin were about 500-fold less effective. Two relatively selective V 1 -receptor antagnists, dPenTyrMeAVP and d(CH 2 ) 5 -TyrMeAVP were 2- and 20-fold less potent than AVP, respectively These data strongly suggest that the bovine adrenal medulla contains V 1 -type receptors for vasopressin, which could be involved in the regulation of the function of chromaffin cells.
Comparison of single, fractionated and hyperfractionated irradiation on the development of normal tissue damage in rat lung☆☆☆

The effect of fractionated thoracic irradiation on the development of normal tissue damage in rats was compared to that produced by single doses. Animals received a single dose of 15 Gy, 30 Gy in 10 daily fractions of 3 Gy each (fractionation), or 30 Gy in 30 fractions of 1 Gy each 3 times a day (hyperfractionation). The treatments produced minimal lethality since a total of only 6 animals died between days 273 and 475 after the initiation of treatment, with no difference in survival observed between the control and any of the 3 treated groups. Despite the lack of lethality, evidence of lung damage was obtained by histological examination. At times less than 180 days after treatment, the lungs of animals receiving a single dose of 15 Gy displayed more severe changes than did animals from either fractionation group. At longer times after treatment (days 261 and 475), the histological appearances within each group were changed, collagen deposits and fibrosis being the most significant observations. Animals that had received either single doses or fractionated doses had more of the pulmonary parenchyma involved than did animals that had received hyperfractionated doses. We conclude that, in the rat lung model, a total radiation dose of 30 Gy fractionated over 14 days produces no more acute lethality nor damage to lung tissue than does 15 Gy delivered as a single dose. However, long-term effects as evidenced by deposits of collagen and development of fibrosis are significantly reduced by hyperfractionation when compared to single doses and daily fractionation.
Obesity, diabetes, and associated risk factors.

The prevalence of obesity has increased in the past 10 years. Recent studies have associated obesity with other cardiovascular risk factors, and an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular death. Patients with obesity should undergo a global evaluation cardiovascular risk, including measurement of abdominal waist circumference, assessment of standard cardiovascular risk factors, screening for dyslipidemia, abnormal glucose metabolism, and hypertension. Recommendations for dietary modification should be tailored to the patient’s associated medical conditions, such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, and all patients should be instructed on the importance of monitoring caloric intake. For patients who can engage in regular physical activity, we recommend a minimum regimen of 150 min/wk of moderate intensity exercise, such as brisk walking. Use of pharmacotherapy for obesity can be considered when efforts at therapeutic lifestyle modification have been ineffective, but patients must be carefully screened because many agents have potential side effects. Surgical approaches for obesity have also been demonstrated to be effective in achieving and sustaining weight loss and improving markers of cardiovascular risk and should be considered in patients who are refractory to therapeutic lifestyle modification. All diabetic patients should be treated comprehensively to reduce other comorbid conditions, including hypertension and dyslipidemia. Hypoglycemic therapy should be initiated when efforts to reduce hyperglycemia to target thresholds fail.
A Conceptual Framework for the use of Quality Concepts and Statistical Methods in Product Design

SUMMARY Quality control based on inspection and segregation of defective parts is uneconomical and inefficient. To be effective, quality needs to be planned at the product design stage. In this article we develop a conceptual model for the product design process that incorporates quality improvement concepts at the design stage and bring into a broader context the role of statistical problem-solving, trouble-shooting and experimental design. The conceptual model for the design process is based on the idea of cyclic incremental improvement.
Precision Bounds of Pavement Deterioration Forecasts from Connected Vehicles

Transportation agencies rely on models to predict when pavements will deteriorate to a condition or ride-index threshold that triggers maintenance actions. The accuracy and precision of such forecasts are directly proportional to the frequency of monitoring. Ride indices derived from connected vehicle sensor data will enable transformational gains in both the accuracy and precision of deterioration forecasts because of very high data volume and update rates. This analysis develops theoretical precision bounds for a ride index called the road impact factor and demonstrates, via a case study, its relationship with vehicle suspension parameter variances.
Oscillations in Biochemical Reaction Networks Arising from Pairs of Subnetworks

Biochemical reaction models show a variety of dynamical behaviors, such as stable steady states, multistability, and oscillations. Biochemical reaction networks with generalized mass action kinetics are represented as directed bipartite graphs with nodes for species and reactions. The bipartite graph of a biochemical reaction network usually contains at least one cycle, i.e., a sequence of nodes and directed edges which starts and ends at the same species node. Cycles can be positive or negative, and it has been shown that oscillations can arise as a result of either a positive cycle or a negative cycle. In earlier work it was shown that oscillations associated with a positive cycle can arise from subnetworks with an odd number of positive cycles. In this article we formulate a similar graph-theoretic condition, which generalizes the negative cycle condition for oscillations. This new graph-theoretic condition for oscillations involves pairs of subnetworks with an even number of positive cycles. An example of a calcium reaction network with generalized mass action kinetics is discussed in detail.
Problems of Engineering Management

All problems of management can ultimately be traced to human beings. The technical manager must have the respect of his people to be effective. They can best assess him through the common ground of technical ability. It is the obligation of the technical manager to convey his philosophy of management to his people and to train them in his methods of operation. The successful manager must constantly fight the desire to participate in the technical details of work. He must realize that it is wrong for him to make decisions which are not appropriate to his level in the organization where those decisions should be made by either those above or those below. He must permit people who work for him the freedom to make mistakes. Engineers have an underlying fear of criticism which makes supervising them often very difficult. This fear of criticism hinders their effective delegation of work. The aspirant to managerial status should seek out criticism and get used to receiving it. Reviews of work performance which have been requested of a supervisor will be invaluable in developing the recipient's managerial skills since it provides a greater awareness of the human problems that are involved in this phase of technical management.
Finding Order in Chaos A Review of Hospital Ratings

Publicly reported hospital performance data have become widely available to health care consumers in recent years. In response to a growing demand for more readily available health care information, various organizations have begun assessing hospital performance. These performance reporting systems have tremendous potential to aid patients, families, and primary care providers in their clinical decision making. This study takes a systematic approach to review the main features of 9 existing hospital rating systems, each of which is described using 9 areas of evaluation. The hospital rating systems included in this study vary widely in scope, methodology, transparency, and presentation of their results. Their results often present conflicting conclusions regarding the performance of the same hospital. This review of hospital rating systems demonstrates how public reporting may add confusion to patients' health care decision making.
A note on the symmetry of normal mean hypotheses and its implications

This paper considers the likelihood ratio tests for homogeneity of normal means versus order-restricted alternatives. Symmetry properties of the test statistics with respect to the parameter vector about a linear space are studied.
Analysis of embryo morphokinetics, multinucleation and cleavage anomalies using continuous time-lapse monitoring in blastocyst transfer cycles

Time-lapse imaging combined with embryo morphokinetics may offer a non-invasive means for improving embryo selection. Data from clinics worldwide are necessary to compare and ultimately develop embryo classifications models using kinetic data. The primary objective of this study was to determine if there were kinetic differences between embryos with limited potential and those more often associated with in vitro blastocyst formation and/or implantation. We also wanted to compare putative kinetic markers for embryo selection as proposed by other laboratories to what we were observing in our own laboratory setting. Kinetic data and cycle outcomes were retrospectively analyzed in patients age 39 and younger with 7 or more zygotes cultured in the Embryoscope. Timing of specific events from the point of insemination were determined using time-lapse (TL) imaging. The following kinetic markers were assessed: time to syngamy (tPNf), t2, time to two cells (c), 3c (t3), 4c ( t4), 5c (t5), 8c (t8), morula (tMor), start of blastulation (tSB); tBL, blastocyst (tBL); expanded blastocyst (tEBL). Durations of the second (cc2) and third (cc3) cell cycles, the t5-t2 interval as well as time to complete synchronous divisions s1, s2 and s3 were calculated. Incidence and impact on development of nuclear and cleavage anomalies were also assessed. A total of 648 embryos transferred on day 5 were analyzed. The clinical pregnancy and implantation rate were 72% and 50%, respectively. Morphokinetic data showed that tPNf, t2,t4, t8, s1, s2,s3 and cc2 were significantly different in embryos forming blastocysts (ET or frozen) versus those with limited potential either failing to blastulate or else forming poor quality blastocysts ,ultimately discarded. Comparison of embryo kinetics in cycles with all embryos implanting (KID+) versus no implantation (KID-) suggested that markers of embryo competence to implant may be different from ability to form a blastocyst. The incidence of multinucleation and reverse cleavage amongst the embryos observed was 25% and 7%, respectively. Over 40% of embryos exhibiting these characteristics did however form blastocysts meeting our criteria for freezing. These data provide us with a platform with which to potentially enhance embryo selection for transfer.
Symerton--using virtualization to accelerate packet processing

The complexity of packet-processing applications continues to grow, with encryption, compression, and XML processing becoming common on packet-processing devices at the edge of enterprise and service provider networks. While performance remains a key differentiator for these devices, the complexity and rate of change in the supported applications has made general-purpose platforms an attractive alternative to ASICs and network processors. General-purpose platforms offer excellent programmability and a wealth of existing software, in the form of operating systems, libraries, and applications that can be used to build a packet-processing system; however, the performance of general-purpose operating systems is unacceptable for many environments. This has driven developers to either make derivative versions of existing operating systems or to use special-purpose operating systems with a less comprehensive and familiar library of existing software. As part of the Symerton project, we propose using virtualization to address these issues. We have designed a system that has a virtual machine dedicated to high-performance networking, and a virtual machine dedicated to hosting non-performance critical tasks in a general-purpose operating system. Using a proof-of-concept implementation, we show that the resulting system outperforms a general-purpose operating system by an average of 22% for a real networking application. We also discuss tradeoffs that will need to be considered in further development of systems using this design.
Recapturing time: a practical approach to time management for physicians

Increasing pressures on physicians demand effective time management and jeopardise professional satisfaction. Effective time management potentially increases productivity, promotes advancement, limits burnout and improves both professional and personal satisfaction. However, strategies for improving time management are lacking in the current medical literature. Adapting time management techniques from the medical and nonmedical literature may improve physician time management habits. These techniques can be divided into four categories: (1) setting short and long-term goals; (2) setting priorities among competing responsibilities; (3) planning and organising activities; and (4) minimising ‘time wasters’. Efforts to improve time management can increase physician productivity and enhance career satisfaction.
Cranberry juice and urinary tract infections: what is the evidence?

I is well “known” by the general lay public that cranberry juice is helpful in treating and preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, the evidence for this assumption has never been critically reviewed in urologic reports or elsewhere. The evidence for the two proposed mechanisms of action of cranberry juice, urinary acidification and inhibition of bacterial adherence, are critically analyzed. Blatherwick1 in 1914 reported that cranberries are rich in benzoic acid and that benzoic acid is excreted as hippuric acid in the urine. For years, it was reported that the beneficial effect of cranberry juice was through the acidification of urine.2–4 We review the more current studies on the mechanism of action of cranberry juice on UTIs and its possible utility in the treatment of UTIs. Cranberries are one of three major native North American fruits, the others being concord grapes and blueberries. Native American Indians used the berries as a food source. In addition, they believed cranberries had medicinal properties. From the 1600s to the 1800s, cranberries were reportedly used for a variety of complaints, including blood disorders, stomach ailments, liver problems, and fevers. In the 1800s, cranberries were used by seamen to prevent scurvy at sea. Cranberries or Vaccinium macrocarpon are mainly grown in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and Canada. Cranberries can be processed into fresh fruit, concentrate, sauce products, and juice drinks. The single strength juice is very acidic (pH 5 2.5 or less) and is unpalatable. In the early 1950s, the cranberry juice cocktail was developed. Cranberry juice cocktail is a mixture of single strength cranberry juice (at least 25% by volume), sweetener, water, and vitamin C. Table I shows the composition of raw cranberries and cranberry juice per 100 g.5
Gender stereotypes and normative heterosexuality in matrimonial ads from globalizing India

Matrimonial ads serve as unobtrusive sites to observe the construction and perpetuation of normative heterosexuality through socio-cultural discourses. The current study focuses on gendered spousal expectations and sex role preferences in 1065 matrimonial ads from two popular newspapers in India. Gender differences in ad type, financial stability, physical attractiveness, fairness, slimness, personality traits, and occupational preferences were examined. Results found support for social exchange of men's financial stability for women's physical attractiveness, gender polarization in ideal spousal occupations, and the relative fluidity in gender identities of women as compared to men. A strong preference for fair and slim women was observed. Implications for sexual objectification of women and changing gender roles in globalizing India are discussed.
The Christiansen Effect in Saturn's narrow dusty rings and the spectral identification of clumps in the F ring

Abstract Stellar occultations by Saturn’s rings observed with the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) onboard the Cassini spacecraft reveal that dusty features such as the F ring and the ringlets in the Encke and the Laplace Gaps have distinctive infrared transmission spectra. These spectra show a narrow optical depth minimum at wavelengths around 2.87 μm. This minimum is likely due to the Christiansen Effect, a reduction in the extinction of small particles when their (complex) refractive index is close to that of the surrounding medium. Simple Mie-scattering models demonstrate that the strength of this opacity dip is sensitive to the size distribution of particles between 1 and 100 μm across. Furthermore, the spatial resolution of the occultation data is sufficient to reveal variations in the transmission spectra within and among these rings. In both the Encke Gap ringlets and F ring, the opacity dip weakens with increasing local optical depth, which is consistent with the larger particles being concentrated near the cores of these rings. The Encke Gap ringlets also show systematically weaker opacity dips than the F ring and Laplace Gap ringlet, implying that the former has a smaller fraction of grains less than ∼30 μm across. However, the strength of the opacity dip varies most dramatically within the F ring; certain compact regions of enhanced optical depth lack an opacity dip and therefore appear to have a greatly reduced fraction of grains in the few-micron size range. Such spectrally-identifiable structures probably represent a subset of the compact optically-thick clumps observed by other Cassini instruments. These variations in the ring’s particle size distribution can provide new insights into the processes of grain aggregation, disruption and transport within dusty rings. For example, the unusual spectral properties of the F-ring clumps could perhaps be ascribed to small grains adhering onto the surface of larger particles in regions of anomalously low velocity dispersion.
The density dilemma: limitations on juvenile production in threatened salmon populations

Density-dependent processes have repeatedly been shown to have a central role in salmonid population dynamics, but are often assumed to be negligible for populations at low abundances relative to historical records. Density dependence has been observed in overall spring/summer Snake River Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha production, but it is not clear how patterns observed at the aggregate level relate to individual populations within the basin. We used a Bayesian hierarchical modelling approach to explore the degree of density dependence in juvenile production for nine Idaho populations. Our results indicate that density dependence is ubiquitous, although its strength varies between populations. We also investigated the processes driving the population-level pattern and found density-dependent growth and mortality present for both common life-history strategies, but no evidence of density-dependent movement. Overwinter mortality, spatial clustering of redds and limited resource availability were identified as potentially important limiting factors contributing to density dependence. The ubiquity of density dependence for these threatened populations is alarming as stability at present low abundance levels suggests recovery may be difficult without major changes. We conclude that density dependence at the population level is common and must be considered in demographic analysis and management.
C16–C29 homologous series of monomethylalkanes in the pyrolysis products of a Holocene microbial mat

Preparative open pyrolysis products of kerogen isolated from a Holocene microbial mat collected in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) contain homologous series of monomethylalkanes (MMAs, C16‐C29). The isomer and carbon number distributions of these branched alkanes closely match those of MMAs in ancient sediments and oils. It is proposed that monomethylalkanes in oils and in thermally mature ancient sediments derive from non-extractable organic matter produced by one or more members of the cyanobacterial assemblage, eubacterial primary producers and/or heterotrophic bacteria. # 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
A Review and Analysis of Prison Litigation Reform Act Court Decisions: Solution or Aggravation?

On April 26, 1996, Congress enacted landmark legislation aimed at curtailing meritless inmate litigation and restricting remedies for prison condition lawsuits. This legislation, the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA), is briefly summarized in this article. Five areas of constitutional challenges to the PLRA at the appellate and district court level are reviewed. Eleven legal issues raised by the PLRA are inconsistent decisions among circuit and district courts, particularly in the areas of separation of powers and due process violations.
Conformational Selection or Induced Fit? A Critical Appraisal of the Kinetic Mechanism

For almost five decades, two competing mechanisms of ligand recognition, conformational selection and induced fit, have dominated our interpretation of ligand binding in biological macromolecules. ...