cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Injured and uninjured leaf photosynthetic responses after mechanical injury on Nerium oleander leaves, and Danaus plexippus herbivory on Asclepias curassavica leaves

Insect herbivory has variable effects on plant physiology; so greater understanding is needed about how injury alters photosynthesis on individual injured and uninjured leaves. Gas exchange and light-adapted leaf chlorophyll fluorescence measurements were collected from uninjured and mechanical partial leaf defoliation in two experiments with Nerium oleander (Apocynaceae) leaves, and one experiment with Danaus plexippus herbivory on Asclepias curassavica (Asclepiadaceae) leaves. Gas exchange impairment (lower photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs)) indicates water stress in a leaf, suggests stomatal limitations causing injury Pn impairment. The same pattern of gas exchange impairment also occurred on uninjured leaves opposite from injured leaves in both N. oleander experiments. This is an interesting result because photosynthetic impairment is rarely reported on injured leaves near injured leaves. No photosynthetic changes occurred in uninjured A. curassavica leaves opposite from D. plexippus-fed leaves. Partially defoliated leaves that had Pn and gs reductions lacked any significant changes in intercellular leaf [CO2], Ci. These results neither support, nor are sufficient to reject, stomatal limitations to photosynthesis. Manually imposed midrib vein severance in N. oleander experiment #1 significantly increased leaf Ci, indicating mesophyll limitations to photosynthesis. Maximal light-adapted leaf photochemical efficiency (\( {F^{\prime }_{{\text{V}}} } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{F^{\prime }_{{\text{V}}} } {F^{\prime }_{{\text{M}}} }}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {F^{\prime }_{{\text{M}}} } \)) and also non-photochemical quenching (qN) were reduced by mechanical or insect herbivory to both study species, suggesting leaf trouble handling excess light energy not used for photochemistry. Midrib injury on N. oleander leaves and D. plexippus herbivory on A. curassavica leaves also reduced effective quantum yield (ΦPSII) and photochemical quenching (qP); so reduced plastoquinone pools could lead to additional PSII reaction center closure.
Change in Sexual Activity 12 Months After ART Initiation Among HIV-Positive Mozambicans

We assessed sexual behaviors before and 12-months after ART initiation among 277 Mozambicans attending an HIV clinic. Measured behaviors included the number of sexual partners, condom use, concurrent relationships, disclosure of HIV status, alcohol use, and partners’ serostatus. Compared to before ART initiation, increases were seen 12 months after ART in the proportion of participants who were sexually active (48% vs. 64% respondents, P < 0.001) and the proportion of participants with HIV-negative or unknown serostatus partners (45% vs. 80%, P < 0.001). Almost all (96%) concurrent partnerships reported at 12 months formed after ART initiation. Although reported correct and consist condom use increased, the number of unprotected sexual relationships remained the same (n = 45). Non-disclosure of HIV-serostatus to sexual partners was the only significant predictor of practicing unprotected sex with partners of HIV-negative or unknown serostatus. Sexual activity among HIV-positive persons on ART increased 12 months after ART initiation. Ongoing secondary transmission prevention programs addressing sexual activity with multiple partners, disclosure to partners and consistent condom use with serodisconcordant partners must be incorporated throughout HIV care programs.
Competition by Estrogens for Catecholamine Receptor Binding In Vitro

We have examined the ability of various steroids to compete for high-affinity binding of 3H-labeled ligands to catecholamine receptors in membranes prepared from rat cerebral cortex, striatum, and anterior pituitary. Ligands employed were: [3H]WB4101, [3H]prazosin, [3H]yohimbine, and [3H]clonidine (alpha-noradrenergic); [3H]dihydroalprenolol (beta-noradrenergic); [3H]spiperone and [3H]ADTN (dopaminergic). Only the 17 beta estrogens were effective and only binding of [3H]spiperone and [3H]ADTN in striatum and [3H]WB4101 and [3H]prazosin in cerebral cortex was reduced. Thus putative dopaminergic and alpha 1-noradrenergic sites alone appear to recognize estrogens. A slight competitive effect on [3H]spiperone binding to anterior pituitary membranes was also observed. Among the 17 beta estrogens tested, the most effective in all cases was the catechol estrogen 2-hydroxyestradiol (2-OHE2). The ability of 2-OHE2 (IC50 = 20-30 micro M) to inhibit ligand binding to alpha 1 receptors was comparable to that of norepinephrine (IC50 = 10-20 micro M), whereas for dopamine receptors in striatum and pituitary 2-OHE2 was an order of magnitude less effective than dopamine (IC50 = 12 micro M) in reducing binding of 3H ligands. Estradiol-17 beta and 2-hydroxyestrone were also able to inhibit binding, but the order of steroid potency was different for alpha 1 and dopaminergic receptors. Progesterone, testosterone, and corticosterone were without effect in all cases. These results show that there is specificity of steroid interactions with catecholamine receptors in the brain, both in terms of steroid structure and receptor type. The possible relevance of these interactions to neuroendocrine function is discussed.
Stochastic network optimization models for investment planning

We describe and compare stochastic network optimization models for investment planning under uncertainty. Emphasis is placed on multiperiod a sset allocation and active portfolio management problems. Myopic as well as multiple period models are considered. In the case of multiperiod models, the uncertainty in asset returns filters into the constraint coefficient matrix, yielding a multi-scenario program formulation. Different scenario generation procedures are examined. The use of utility functions to reflect risk bearing attitudes results in nonlinear stochastic network models. We adopt a newly proposed decomposition procedure for solving these multiperiod stochastic programs. The performance of the models in simulations based on historical data is discussed.
Veiling the Obvious: African feminist theory and the hijab in the African novel

Abstract This article is predicated on the view that African Muslim women do not necessarily perceive Islam or Islamic practice as incompatible with their goals and aspirations of education, independence or leadership. Drawing on the representations of the hijab in three African novels, this paper will simultaneously affirm and challenge certain orientations within African and particularly African feminist theories vis-a-vis African Muslim women and Islam. In responding to the claims by certain African feminist thinkers that Islam is incompatible with female leadership, that African Muslim women mostly practice Islam against their will and that forms of Islamic practice, in this case the hijab, are of little religious significance to African Muslim women, this paper will demonstrate that not only do African Muslim women choose to practice Islam by consciously and voluntarily situating themselves as agents of Islamic practice, but, in so doing, they, in fact, embody leadership, education, independence and ...
Minerva: An automated resource provisioning tool for large-scale storage systems

Enterprise-scale storage systems, which can contain hundreds of host computers and storage devices and up to tens of thousands of disks and logical volumes, are difficult to design. The volume of choices that need to be made is massive, and many choices have unforeseen interactions. Storage system design is tedious and complicated to do by hand, usually leading to solutions that are grossly over-provisioned, substantially under-performing or, in the worst case, both.To solve the configuration nightmare, we present minerva: a suite of tools for designing storage systems automatically. Minerva uses declarative specifications of application requirements and device capabilities; constraint-based formulations of the various sub-problems; and optimization techniques to explore the search space of possible solutions.This paper also explores and evaluates the design decisions that went into Minerva, using specialized micro- and macro-benchmarks. We show that Minerva can successfully handle a workload with substantial complexity (a decision-support database benchmark). Minerva created a 16-disk design in only a few minutes that achieved the same performance as a 30-disk system manually designed by human experts. Of equal importance, Minerva was able to predict the resulting system's performance before it was built.
Regulated in Development and DNA Damage 1 Is Necessary for Hyperglycemia-induced Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression in the Retina of Diabetic Rodents

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is considered a major role player in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, yet the mechanisms regulating its expression are not fully understood. Our laboratory previously demonstrated that diabetes-induced VEGF expression in the retina was dependent on the repressor of mRNA translation 4E-BP1. Interaction of 4E-BP1 with the cap-binding protein eIF4E regulates protein expression by controlling the selection of mRNAs for translation. The process is regulated by the master kinase mTOR in complex 1 (mTORC1), which phosphorylates 4E-BP1, thus promoting its disassociation from eIF4E. In the present study, we investigated the role of the Akt/mTORC1 repressor REDD1 (regulated in development and DNA damage) in diabetes-induced VEGF expression. REDD1 expression was induced by hyperglycemia in the retina of diabetic rodents and by hyperglycemic conditions in Muller cells concomitant with increased VEGF expression. In Muller cells, hyperglycemic conditions attenuated global rates of protein synthesis and cap-dependent mRNA translation concomitant with up-regulated cap-independent VEGF mRNA translation, as assessed by a bicistronic luciferase reporter assay. Hyperglycemic conditions also attenuated mTORC1 signaling and enhanced 4E-BP1 binding to eIF4E. Furthermore, ectopic expression of REDD1 in Muller cells was sufficient to promote both increased 4E-BP1 binding to eIF4E and VEGF expression. Whereas the retina of wild-type mice exhibited increased expression of VEGF and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) 4 weeks after streptozotocin administration, the retina of REDD1 knock-out mice failed to do so. Overall, the results demonstrate that REDD1 contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetes in the retina by mediating the pathogenic effects of hyperglycemia. Background: VEGF plays a causal role in diabetic retinopathy. Results: Hyperglycemia induced VEGF and REDD1 expression in the retina of wild-type, but not REDD1 knock-out mice. Conclusion: REDD1 is necessary for hyperglycemia mediated effects on VEGF expression in the retina of diabetic mice. Significance: Molecular therapies targeting REDD1 could prove useful in preventing pathological effects of hyperglycemia.
Closed-form exact solutions of MHD viscous flow over a shrinking sheet

Abstract In this paper, the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow over a shrinking sheet is solved analytically. The solution is given in a closed-form equation and is an exact solution of the full governing Navier–Stokes equations for the problem. Interesting solution behavior is observed with multiple solution branches for certain parameter domain.
Vascular biology in genetically altered mice : smaller vessels, bigger insight.

Manipulation of genes in the mouse genome to produce transgenic or gene-targeted animals represents a powerful experimental tool with which to study the role of specific gene products in complex physiological systems. Because of the power of studying genetically altered mice, a major effort has begun to incorporate the use of these models in studies of the cardiovascular system, including vascular biology. The present review will summarize progress that has been made in studies of vascular biology in mice. A major focus of the discussion will be studies of vascular function. At present, the majority of studies of vascular function in genetically altered mice have been related to the role of endothelium. For this reason, we will highlight studies related to endothelium and nitric oxide (NO, a major vasoactive substance produced by endothelium) as examples of the types of studies that are being done in mice and of the new insight into the regulation of blood vessels that is emerging. The article will also summarize advantages and limitations of using genetically altered mice as well as new insights obtained from such studies in the areas of signal transduction and pathophysiology. In addition, we will summarize potential directions and methodologies for future studies of vascular biology in mice. The methodology to produce targeted gene disruption in mammalian cells that subsequently contribute to the germ line was developed in the mid to late 1980s.1 2 3 4 5 Before the age of producing genetically altered mice, studies of vascular function in mice appeared only occasionally in the literature. Examples are studies of vascular responses in mice made hypertensive by psychosocial stress.6 7 Even in more recent years, mice have only occasionally been used for studies of normal vascular function8 9 10 11 12 and for examining the effects of …
William Henley, pioneer electrical instrument maker and cable manufacturer, 1813 to 1882

William Henley provides a case history of a pioneer manufacturer of electrical instruments and equipment, who expanded from instrument making into the production and laying of submarine cables. At one time he employed 2000 men and owned three cable laying ships. By 1874 he had expanded his firm beyond what one man could manage, and, when the recession came, he failed. He had lived frugally, but instead of using some of the profits to build up reserves, he spent heavily on expansion and borrowed heavily. Henley is an object lesson to all inventor-entrepreneurs: watch your cash flow, and be prepared to delegate. His personal management style did not adapt to the growth of the business and to the need for sound administration. The firm had to be reconstituted without him, and then W.T. Henley's Telegraph Works Ltd. recovered and enjoyed subsequent success.
Dollars for lives: The effect of highway capital investments on traffic fatalities

INTRODUCTION: This study examines the effect of highway capital investments on highway fatalities. METHODS: We used state-level data from the 48 contiguous states in the United States from 1968 through 2010 to estimate the effects on highway fatalities of capital expenditures and highway capital stock. We estimated these effects by controlling for a set of control variables together with state and year dummy variables and state-specific linear time trends. RESULTS: We found that capital expenditures and capital stock had significant and negative effects on highway fatalities. CONCLUSION: States faced with declines in gas tax revenues have already cut back drastically on spending on roads including on maintenance and capital outlay. If this trend continues, it may undermine traffic safety. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: While states and local governments are currently fiscally strained, it is important for them to continue investments in roadways to enhance traffic safety and, more significantly, to save lives. Language: en
Evaluation and Management of Traumatic Knee Injuries in the Emergency Department

Posttraumatic knee pain is a common presentation in the emergency department (ED). The use of clinical decision rules can rule out reliably fractures of the knee and reduce the unnecessary cost and radiation exposure associated with plain radiographs. If ligamentous or meniscal injury to the knee is suspected, the ED physician should arrange for expedited follow- up with the patient's primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist for consideration of an MRI and further management. Patients presenting after high-energy mechanisms are at risk for occult fracture and vascular injuries. ED providers must consider these injuries in the proper clinical setting.
Processable heat-resistant resins based on novel monomers containing o-phenylene rings: 2. Ordered benzoxazole- and benzthiazole-imide copolymers☆

Abstract Highly processable heat-resistant resins containing o-phenylene rings have been prepared with high molecular weight from the reaction of simple aromatic dianhydrides with aromatic diamines containing preformed bisbenzoheterocyclic groups connected by an o-phenylene ring. Thus, 2,2′-o-phenylene-bis(5-aminobenzoxazole) was polycondensed with 3,3′4,4′-benzophenone dianhydride to yield a polyamic acid precursor, which was converted to an ordered benzoxazole-imide copolymer via cyclodehydration. Polymers can be prepared from diamines that are structural isomers, e.g. the amino groups can be in the 6-position instead of the 5-position. Additionally, polymers have been prepared from diamines, e.g. 2,2′-o-bis(6-aminobenzothiazole), having structurally similar heterocyclic units such as benzothiazole in place of benzoxazole rings. The preparation of the dinitro precursors to the bisbenzoheterocyclic diamines and their reduction is described along with nuclear magnetic resonance data. Polymers were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and inherent viscosity measurements of the polyamic acid precursors.
δ-Aminolevulinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rat kidney and liver is attenuated by melatonin : An in vitro and in vivo study

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a genetically inherited disease characterized by a partial block in liver heme biosynthesis and by increased urinary excretion of the delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). Recently, it has been proposed that the toxic effects of ALA are related to the generation of free radicals. In the present study the in vitro and in vivo effect of melatonin, a recently described antioxidative agent, on ALA-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver and kidney was determined. The concentration of malonaldehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxyalkenals (4-HDA) was assayed as an index of induced membrane oxidative damage. In vitro melatonin protected, in a concentration-dependent manner, against ALA-induced lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney homogenates. In in vivo experiments as well, it was demonstrated that ALA (40 mg/kg)-induced lipid peroxidation in liver and kidney was reduced by acute melatonin (10 mg/kg) treatment. The results support the involvement of free radicals in ALA toxicity and show that in vitro and in vivo melatonin confers protection against this toxicity, likely due to the antioxidative capability of the indole.
Sparse-grid quadrature nonlinear filtering

In this paper, a novel nonlinear filter named Sparse-grid Quadrature Filter (SGQF) is proposed. The filter utilizes weighted sparse-grid quadrature points to approximate the multi-dimensional integrals in the nonlinear Bayesian estimation algorithm. The locations and weights of the univariate quadrature points with a range of accuracy levels are determined by the moment matching method. Then the univariate quadrature point sets are extended to form a multi-dimensional grid using the sparse-grid theory. Compared with the conventional point-based methods, the estimation accuracy level of the SGQF can be flexibly controlled and the number of sparse-grid quadrature points for the SGQF is a polynomial of the dimension of the system, which alleviates the curse of dimensionality for high dimensional problems. The Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) is proven to be a subset of the SGQF at the level-2 accuracy. The performance of this filter is demonstrated by an orbit estimation problem. The simulation results show that the SGQF achieves higher accuracy than the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF), the UKF, and the Cubature Kalman Filter (CKF). In addition, the SGQF is computationally much more efficient than the multi-dimensional Gauss-Hermite Quadrature Filter (GHQF) with the same performance.
CHES1/FOXN3 interacts with Ski-interacting protein and acts as a transcriptional repressor.

Abstract Checkpoint Suppressor 1 (CHES1; FOXN3) encodes a member of the forkhead/winged-helix transcription factor family. The human CHES1 cDNA was originally identified by its ability to function as a high-copy suppressor of multiple checkpoint mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Accumulating expression profile data suggest that CHES1 plays a role in tumorigenicity and responses to cancer treatments, though nothing is known regarding the transcriptional function of CHES1 or other FOXN proteins in human cells. In this report, we find that the carboxyl terminus of CHES1 fused to a heterologous DNA binding domain consistently represses reporter gene transcription in cell lines derived from tumor tissues. Using a cytoplasmic two-hybrid screening approach, we find that this portion of CHES1 interacts with Ski-interacting protein (SKIP; NCoA-62), which is a transcriptional co-regulator known to associate with repressor complexes. We verify this interaction through co-immunoprecipitation experiments performed in mammalian cells. Further analysis of the CHES1/SKIP interaction indicates that CHES1 binds to a region within the final 66 hydrophobic residues of SKIP thus defining a new protein–protein interaction domain of SKIP. These data suggest that CHES1 recruits SKIP to repress genes important for tumorigenesis and the response to cancer treatments.
Inhibition of Photosynthesis in Some Algae by Extreme-Red Light.

Photosynthesis produced by far-red light (about 700 mµ) is reversibly inhibited in some algae by extreme-red light (∼ 750 mµ).
Diabetic neuropathy differs in type 1 and type 2 diabetes

In this article we describe differences in early metabolic abnormalities between type 1 and type 2 diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), and how these differences lead to milder initial functional defects in type 2 diabetes, despite the same hyperglycemic exposures. This early reversible metabolic phase is progressively overshadowed by structural degenerative changes eventually resulting in nerve fiber loss. In comparison, the late structural phase of DPN affects type 1 diabetes more severely. Progressive axonal atrophy and loss is hence expressed to a larger extent in type 1 diabetes. In addition, type 1 DPN is characterized by paranodal degenerative changes not seen in type 2 DPN. These differences can be related to the differences in insulin action and signal transduction affecting the expression of neurotrophic factors and their receptors in type 1 diabetes. Downstream effects on neuroskeletal and adhesive proteins, their posttranslational modifications, and nociceptive peptides underlie the more severe resultant pathology in type 1 DPN. These differences in underlying mechanisms should be seriously considered in the future design of interventional paradigms to combat these common conditions.
Stress, asthma, and respiratory infections: Pathways involving airway immunology and microbial endocrinology

Stress and infections have long been independently associated with asthma pathogenesis and exacerbation. Prior research has focused on the effect of psychological stress on Th cells with particular relevance to atopic asthma. In this review, we propose new perspectives that integrate the role of infection in the relationship between psychological stress and asthma. We highlight the essential role of the mucosal epithelia of the airways in understanding the interaction between infections and the stress-asthma relationship. In addition, we review findings suggesting that psychological stress not only modulates immune processes, but also the pathogenic qualities of bacteria, with implications for the pathogenesis and exacerbation asthma.
Restoration of in vitro growth control to malignant cells

A glycoprotein (molecular weight, ca. 160,000) from culture medium of contact-inhibited hamster melanocytes restores contact inhibition of growth to malignant melanocytes of man, mouse, and hamsters, and also effectively inhibits growth in vitro of a broad spectrum of malignant and normal cell types of ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal origins, including human colon carcinomas. The melanocyte contact inhibitory factor (MCIF) produces G1 growth arrest in malignant melanocytes; inhibition of all cell types is reversible, does related, and nontoxic at concentrations below 200 microgram/ml, but selectively lethal to malignant cells at higher concentrations. An electrophoretically identical protein is present in culture media of contact-inhibited melanocytes, fibroblasts, and epidermal cells, but absent from those of colon carcinomas, HeLa cells and malignant melanomas. Nevertheless, an MCIF-like band is present in whole cell homogenates of human colon carcinomas and hamster melanomas. MCIF may permit normal surface interactions required for feedback inhibition of growth.
Chemical addressability of ultraviolet-inactivated viral nanoparticles (VNPs).

Background Cowpea Mosaic Virus (CPMV) is increasingly being used as a nanoparticle platform for multivalent display of molecules via chemical bioconjugation to the capsid surface. A growing variety of applications have employed the CPMV multivalent display technology including nanoblock chemistry, in vivo imaging, and materials science. CPMV nanoparticles can be inexpensively produced from experimentally infected cowpea plants at high yields and are extremely stable. Although CPMV has not been shown to replicate in mammalian cells, uptake in mammalian cells does occur in vitro and in vivo. Thus, inactivation of the virus RNA genome is important for biosafety considerations, however the surface characteristics and chemical reactivity of the particles must be maintained in order to preserve chemical and structural functionality.
A retrospective review of air bag deaths.

OBJECTIVE: To describe occupant and crash characteristics in the first 27 publicly released investigations of air-bag-related fatalities. METHODS: A retrospective review of the first 27 released crash investigations of air-bag-induced fatalities was conducted. Data were obtained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. RESULTS: Three separate groups of occupants are described: adult drivers, school-aged children riding in the right front passenger seat, and infants installed into rear-facing infant car seats placed into the right front passenger seat. Female drivers were significantly likely to be short-statured. Male drivers tended to be slumped over the wheel. Eleven children (100%) were improperly restrained and thrown forward by preimpact braking. Adults tended to have serious chest injuries, while children tended to have CNS or neck injuries. All three infants had fatal CNS injuries. The average deltaV (change in the vehicle's velocity at the moment of impact) was 12 mph and the average bumper crash was 8.8 inches. CONCLUSIONS: Air bags can cause fatal injury to car occupants in low- or moderate-speed crashes. Data suggest that proximity to the air bag at the time of deployment is the critical risk factor for fatal injury.
A convenient synthesis of (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butenyl pyrophosphate and its [4-13C]-labeled form

Abstract The synthesis of ( E )-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butenyl pyrophosphate, an intermediate in the deoxyxylulose pathway of isoprenoid biosynthesis, was accomplished by pyrophosphorylation of ( E )-4-chloro-2-methyl-2-buten-1-ol. This route enables convenient access to isotopically labeled products, as demonstrated through the preparation of [4- 13 C]-( E )-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butenyl pyrophosphate in 28% overall yield from [1- 13 C]-2-bromopropionic acid.
Case Report: Recurrent Piriformis Syndrome After Surgical Release

Piriformis syndrome is an uncommon condition characterized by sciatic nerve entrapment at the greater sciatic notch. Nonoperative treatment such as physical therapy, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and local injections often results in relief of symptoms. For patients who do not benefit from nonoperative therapy, surgical exploration and decompression of the sciatic nerve has been effective. However, the success of surgery may be diminished by scar formation or hematoma in the anatomically restricted sciatic notch. We report two patients with piriformis syndrome who responded primarily to surgical decompression and had recurrent symptoms resulting from scar tissue formation in the sciatic notch. On revision surgery, polytetrafluoroethylene pledgets were placed around the sciatic nerve to avoid compression and entrapment by scar tissue. Both patients had satisfactory outcomes at 3 years followup.
Impact of an integrated service system on client outcomes by gender in a national sample of a mentally ill homeless population.

Background: Homeless populations with concurrent mental illness have a complex array of service needs that are often addressed in a haphazard or uncoordinated manner. Information is lacking about the effectiveness of programs and public policy in women who are both homeless and mentally ill. Objective: This study assessed the impact of gender on the outcomes of a multisite public policy intervention that implemented components of an integrated service delivery system to address the needs of mentally ill homeless men and women. Methods: A secondary analysis was performed using longitudinal data obtained from homeless men and women in the Access to Community Care and Effective Services and Supports prospective study, which was conducted at 18 sites across the United States. Outcome data from baseline, 3, 12, and 18 months across 5 annual cohorts were analyzed to determine the impact of gender on 6 clinical outcomes, including days of housing, relationships, victimization, social support, alcohol use, and drug use, in homeless men and women with mental illness. The analysis plan included multilevel modeling of longitudinal data. Results: Data were analyzed from a total of 7229 participants, including 4502 men (62%)) (mean age, 38.2 years) and 2727 women (38%) (mean age, 37.2 years). After 18 months of follow-up, women had significantly better outcomes in terms of family relationships (estimated mean score increased 0.100), victimization (score decreased 0.164), and social support (score increased 0.363) than did men (aall, P < 0.001). Being accompanied by children was significantly associated with less change in drug use among women compared with men (P < 0.01). These outcomes were the same across all 18 program sites. Conclusion: Although the addition of services for the homeless in conjunction with clinical and support services offered by case managers had generally positive effects in this study's population, a gender-specific substance abuse treatment intervention should also be included in a comprehensive program for homeless women with mental illness.
Parameter estimation of cyclostationary AM time series with application to missing observations

Time series with systematic misses occur often in practice and can be modeled as amplitude modulated ARMA processes. With this as a motivating application, modeling of cyclostationary amplitude modulated time series is addressed in the paper. Assuming that the modulating sequence is (almost) periodic, parameter estimation algorithms are developed based on second- and higher order cumulants of the resulting cyclostationary observations, which may be corrupted by any additive stationary noise of unknown covariance. If unknown, the modulating sequence can be recovered even in the presence of additive (perhaps nonstationary and colored) Gaussian, or any symmetrically distributed, noise. If the ARMA process is nonGaussian, cyclic cumulants of order greater than three can identify (non)causal and (non)minimum phase models from partial noisy data. Simulation experiments corroborate the theoretical results. >
Exploring the efficacy of healthcare quality practices, employee commitment, and employee control

Abstract This exploratory study examines healthcare quality program practices, employee commitment and control initiatives, and perceived results by surveying the directors of hospital quality programs. U.S. hospitals are renowned to be among the highest in quality, but recent studies assert that the majority of error-related deaths per year are preventable. In response, healthcare organizations have adopted quality management programs. Employee commitment and control theories propose that employee initiatives are critical to patient safety. However, little research has focused on the efficacy of employee commitment and control initiatives for quality programs at healthcare organizations. This study examines the responses from Quality and Risk Directors of 372 U.S. hospitals. The results of structural equation modeling (SEM) demonstrate that perceived quantitative and qualitative quality program results are more highly related to employee commitment and control initiatives than they are related to quality practices.
Querying spatiotemporal XML using DataFoX

We describe DataFoX, which is a new query language for XML documents and extends Datalog with support for trees as the domain of the variables. We also introduce for DataFoX a layer algebra, which supports data heterogeneity at the language level, and several algebra-based evaluation techniques.
Intellectual property transfer from universities to business: requisite for sustained competitive advantage?

Business is experiencing an ongoing fundamental shift in the competitive environment, which highlights the need for knowledge development and the interdependence between users and producers, including universities, government, and society. This interdependence is specifically accentuated by the transfer of intellectual property from universities to corporations that are intent on developing sustainable competitive strategies. This paper presents a conceptual framework and research questions and the results of an exploratory study which focused upon the interaction between pivotal universities and business in a society-government context. Among other findings, the paper concludes that the economic and contractual imperatives of business may not conform to the traditional research, instructional, and service roles of universities. The implications of the study findings for business and university interactions are discussed.
PaperDiff: A Script Independent Automatic Method for Finding the Text Differences Between Two Document Images

In this paper, we introduce a novel concept called {PaperDiff} and propose an algorithm to implement it. The aim of PaperDiff is to compare two printed (paper) documents using their images and determine the differences in terms of text inserted, deleted and substituted between them. This lets an end-user compare two documents which are already printed or even if one of which is printed (the other could be in electronic form such as MS-word *.doc file). The algorithm we have proposed for realizing PaperDiff is based on word image comparison and is even suitable for symbol strings and for any script/language (including multiple scripts) in the documents, where even mature optical character recognition (OCR) technology has had very little success. PaperDiff enables end-users like lawyers, novelists, etc, in comparing new document versions with older versions of them. Our proposed method is suitable even when the formatting of content is different between the two input documents, where the structures of the document images are different (for e.g., differing page widths, page structure etc). An experiment of PaperDiff on single column text documents yielded 99.2 % accuracy while detecting 135 induced differences in 10 pairs of documents.
Constructing Galerkin's Approximations of Invariant Tori Using MACSYMA*

Invariant tori of solutions for nonlinearly coupled oscillators are generalizations of limit cycles in the phase plane. They are surfaces of aperiodic solutions of the coupled oscillators with the property that once a solution is on the surface it remains on the surface. Invariant tori satisfy a defining system of nonlinear partial differential equations. This case study shows that with the help of a symbolic manipulation package, such as MACSYMA, approximations to the invariant tori can be developed by using Galerkin's variational method. The resulting series must be manipulated efficiently, however, by using the Poisson series representation for multiply periodic functions, which makes maximum use of the list processing techniques of MACSYMA. Three cases are studied for the single van der Pol oscillator with forcing parameter e=0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and three cases are studied for a pair of nonlinearly coupled van der Pol oscillators with forcing parameters e=0.005, 0.5, 1.0. The approximate tori exhibit good agreement with direct numerical integrations of the systems.
The Role of Selective Transport in Neuronal Protein Sorting

To assess whether selective microtubule-based vesicle transport underlies the polarized distribution of neuronal proteins, we expressed green fluorescent protein- (GFP-) tagged chimeras of representative axonal and dendritic membrane proteins in cultured hippocampal neurons and visualized the transport of carrier vesicles containing these proteins in living cells. Vesicles containing a dendritic protein, transferrin receptor (TfR), were preferentially transported into dendrites and excluded from axons. In contrast, vesicles containing the axonal protein NgCAM (neuron-glia cell adhesion molecule) were transported into both dendrites and axons. These data demonstrate that neurons utilize two distinct mechanisms for the targeting of polarized membrane proteins, one (for dendritic proteins) based on selective transport, the other (for axonal proteins) based on a selectivity "filter" that occurs downstream of transport.
A Function-Based Strategy for Analysis of Energy Systems in Transportation Vehicles

Six functions are identified as the most critical (“core” functions) to transportation vehicle energy systems. These selections are validated through analysis of 25 function structures as well as observations of a number of existing energy systems. Identifying which of the core functions and which of the energy types are involved in a given energy system is the Core-Function Modeling strategy (CFM strategy). These functions and energy types (the framework of CFM) are used to categorize approximately fifty processes and devices. This list is the Energy Morph Matrix (EMM). An experiment is performed that demonstrates how the EMM can be used as an aid to the concept generation process. The EMM also adapts well to a more automated approach for designing energy systems when used in combination with a search algorithm to identify chains of energy components. By incorporating a metric such as system efficiency or energy density into the search and computing this metric for each chain of energy components, these chains can be ranked and leading candidates can be highlighted for further analysis.
Characteristics of a Laminar Diffusion Flame in a Cross-Flow of Combustion Products

This study was an investigation of the characteristics of a horizontal laminar diffusion flame established from a tubular burner in a buoyant vertical flow vitiated with combustion products created by a flat flame. The effects of varying flat flame equivalence ratio on these characteristics were studied. Applications of this study include exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), staged combustion in furnaces, and afterburners in jet engines. The fuel used for both the horizontal (cross-flow flame) and the flat flame in this study was propane. For a range of flat flame burner equivalence ratio (0.6 to 0.9), measurements of cross-flow flame length, and global emissions of NO were made. The mass flow rate of propane delivered to the cross-flow flame was held constant during these measurements. The flames were photographed with a digital camera. Profiles of combustion species concentrations and temperature were taken at 25% and 50% of the cross-flow flame length for flat flame burner equivalence ratios of 0.6 and 0.8, and for a non-combustion case (air flow only) in the flat flame. It was found that increasing the flat flame burner equivalence ratio caused an increase in the length of the cross-flow flame. The maximum temperature of the cross-flow flame decreased with increasing flat flame burner equivalence ratio. The introduction of the cross-flow flame increased the NO production in a flat flame with an equivalence ratio of 0.6, but did not significantly affect the NO production in a flat flame of an equivalence ratios of 0.7 or 0.8, and reduced it (by as much as 25%) in a flat flame of equivalence ratio of 0.9. This reduction of NO production and flame temperature and increase in flame length with increasing flat flame equivalence ratio was attributed to the reduction of oxygen available to the cross-flow flame. These results were supported with the in-flame combustion species concentration profiles.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Changes in granulopoiesis in the rat associated with prolonged halothane anesthesia.

Rats were continuously exposed to 0.45 per cent halothane in air for periods from 24 to 115 hours. Control and experimental animals were sacrificed at regular intervals and the following tests were made: peripheral white cell and differential counts, bone marrow sections and differential counts, marrow leukocyte alkaline phosphatase staining and hepatic histology. Tritiated thymidine (3HT) uptake was studied in control and experimental rats, and the progression of this label into more mtture cell types determined. Halothane exerted on effect on dividing granulocytic cells of the marrow which was evident after 24 hours' exposure but was not reflected in significant changes in circulating granulocytes until 54 hours' exposure. DNA synthesis was not primarily affected. The results suggest the primary site of action to be on the cytoplasm of the granulocytcs.
Field-tunable probe for combined electric and magnetic field measurements

A method to measure the magnitude and phase of electric and magnetic fields with a single probe is presented. The optically-based probe, consisting of a hybrid combination of gallium arsenide followed by terbium gallium garnet, employs the Pockels effect to measure electric fields and the Faraday effect to measure magnetic fields. Isolation between the two effects is achieved via external polarization optics, allowing the probe to be toggled between electric field and magnetic field sensitivity by switching the input optical polarization between two states. A demonstrated isolation of 22 dB is observed using a shorted microstrip transmission line as a test bed.
Tracking California seafloor seeps with bathymetry, backscatter and ROVs

Abstract The California (USA) margin includes two different tectonic regimes: subduction north of the Mendocino Triple Junction and translation south. Both margins include seeps, and their distribution can be inferred using seafloor bathymetry and backscatter as well as subsurface seismic data. Anomalous bathymetric and backscatter features related to fluid expulsion include headless submarine canyons, fault zones, anticlines, pockmarks, and mud volcanoes. Anomalous backscatter may be caused by authigenic carbonate (related to the bacterial oxidation of methane) or cold seep clams—both have an impedance and roughness that may be higher than the surrounding seafloor. Remote-operated vehicle (ROV) dives to such suspect seep sites document the presence of extensive authigenic carbonate, areally restricted cold seep communities, carpets of chemoautotrophic bacteria, and bubbling gas. Our operations in the Monterey Bay, on the translational California margin, and the Eel River basin, on the convergent margin, indicate that bathymetric and backscatter maps of the seafloor, if sufficiently high resolution, can be used to map seep sites, and that the distribution of such seeps can be used to constrain subsurface conduits of fluid flow. ROVs, due to their combination of visualization, propulsion, manipulation, sonar, and navigation, provide an excellent platform for ground-truthing, mapping, and sampling seafloor seeps.
Entry, Descent, and Landing Scenario for the Mars Exploration Rover Mission

In January 2004, the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) mission successfully landed two landers on the surface of Mars. Both landers delivered a rover to the surface using an entry, descent, and landing (EDL) scenario based on Mars Pathfinder heritage. However, the entry conditions and environments were different from that of Mars Pathfinder. Unique challenges were present due to the entry differences of a heavier entry mass, less dense atmosphere, and higher surface landing site altitude. These differences resulted in a higher terminal velocity and less time for performing all the EDL events as compared to Mars Pathfinder. As a result of these differences, modifications were made to the MER EDL systems to safely deliver the rovers to the surface of Mars. An overview of the design modifications made to the MER EDL system compared to MPF is described.
uvby photometry of the CP stars HR 149, HD 32966, HD 171782, and HR 7911 ?

Dierential Stromgren uvby observations from the Four College Automated Photoelectric Telescope (FCAPT) are presented for the CP stars HR 149 and HR 7911 and the mCP stars HD 32966 and HD 171782. The Mercury-Manganese star HR 149 is found to be constant while HR 7911 with a period of 5.9617 days probably has a component which is a magnetic CP star. Improved periods were derived for HD 32966 and HD 171782 of 3.0927 and 4.4674 days, respectively. The former is a rather large amplitude mCP star. Both have at least one light curve dierent in shape from the others observed.
Is Traditional Indexation Passé? Vanguard Versus the Enhanced Indexers: DFA, RAFI, and WisdomTree

Vanguard provides low-cost capitalization-weighted mutual funds: traditional index funds. The asset allocation of DFA’s core funds is determined by fundamentals as well as market cap. RAFI’s allocation depends on four fundamental factors—dividends, cash flow, sales, and book equity value. WisdomTree’s allocation is also determined by fundamentals alone. We compare returns of these enhanced index funds with corresponding Vanguard mutual fund portfolios. Focusing on U.S. funds only, DFA had lower returns than portfolios of Vanguard funds that mimicked their style; RAFI and WisdomTree out-returned Vanguard. Two cheers for enhanced indexation and one for traditional.
From teenage life to victorian morals and back: Technological change and teenage life

We are often told that mobiles, and that mobile texting in particular, has changed the lives of teenagers (Ling 2004; Nyiri 2003). One can easily imagine how, in the past, teenagers would wonder what their friends were up to, and would have to exercise their minds to figure this out: now, in contrast, they can call or text them. Thus the walls of teenage experience have been altered; what was once impossible is now achieved at the cost of only a few pence (for a review, see Harper et al. forthcoming). But is this change so great? One should remind oneself also that what teenagers find when they make these calls or texts to their friends is not something that will surprise us or them: one imagines that they discover that their friends are, like themselves, lurking in their bedrooms, sulking about too much homework and yearning to be elsewhere. And this indolence, this teenager ennui, one would readily agree, is hardly something new nor, alas, something that will vanish in the ‘mobile age’ (see Katz & Aakhus 2002; Brown et al. 2002; Harper 2003).
Revealing functionally coherent subsets using a spectral clustering and an information integration approach

Background Contemporary high-throughput analyses often produce lengthy lists of genes or proteins. It is desirable to divide the genes into functionally coherent subsets for further investigation, by integrating heterogeneous information regarding the genes. Here we report a principled approach for managing and integrating multiple data sources within the framework of graph-spectrum analysis in order to identify coherent gene subsets.