cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A statistical approach to the interpretation of aliphatic hydrocarbon distributions in marine sediments

Abstract Q -mode factor analysis was used to quantitate the distribution of the major aliphatic hydrocarbon (n-alkanes, pristane, phytane) systems in sediments from a variety of marine environments. The compositions of the pure end members of the systems were obtained from factor scores and the distribution of the systems within each sample was obtained from factor loadings. All the data, from the diverse environments sampled (estuarine (San Francisco Bay), fresh-water (San Francisco Peninsula), polar-marine (Antarctica) and geothermal-marine (Gorda Ridge) sediments), were reduced to three major systems: a terrestrial system (mostly high molecular weight aliphatics with odd-numbered-carbon predominance), a mature system (mostly low molecular weight aliphatics without predominance) and a system containing mostly high molecular weight aliphatics with even-numbered-carbon predominance. With this statistical approach, it is possible to assign the percentage contribution from various sources to the observed distribution of aliphatic hydrocarbons in each sediment sample.
The Ras GTPase-activating-like Protein IQGAP1 Mediates Nrf2 Protein Activation via the Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase/Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase (ERK) Kinase (MEK)-ERK Pathway

Nrf2 plays a critical role in the regulation of cellular oxidative stress. MEK-ERK activation has been shown to be one of the major pathways resulting in the activation of Nrf2 and induction of Nrf2 downstream targets, including phase II detoxifying/antioxidant genes in response to oxidative stress and xenobiotics. In this study, IQGAP1 (IQ motif-containing GTPase-activating protein 1), a new Nrf2 interaction partner that we have published previously, was found to modulate MEK-ERK-mediated Nrf2 activation and induction of phase II detoxifying/antioxidant genes. Nrf2 binds directly to the IQ domain (amino acids 699-905) of IQGAP1. Knockdown of IQGAP1 significantly attenuated phenethyl isothiocyanate- or MEK-mediated activation of the MEK-ERK-Nrf2 pathway. Knockdown of IQGAP1 also attenuated MEK-mediated increased stability of Nrf2, which in turn was associated with a decrease in the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and a decrease in the expression of phase II detoxifying/antioxidant genes. In the aggregate, these results suggest that IQGAP1 may play an important role in the MEK-ERK-Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Understanding discretion in conservatism: An alternative viewpoint ☆

Various studies have investigated variation in reporting conservatism with pre-specified contractual incentives. Lawrence et al. (forthcoming), hereafter LSS, propose a model to control for “normal” or “non-discretionary” conservatism while testing for variation in conservatism with contractual forces, which they characterize as “discretionary” variation. Our objective is to further the discussion on discretion in conservatism by relying on LSS and incorporating insights from related studies to shed light on the rationales and relative importance of various controls for normal conservatism suggested by LSS. Furthermore, our perspective on discretion in conservatism is distinct from the one developed by LSS in some crucial respects, ultimately leading us to question the nature of the boundary between discretionary and non-discretionary conservatism.
Heuristics for Determining the Optimal Interval Between Checkups

How often should one check on a system that is at risk for some malfunction? The optimal interval between inspections depends on the likelihood of malfunction, the cost of inspection, and the cost of treatment We develop a mathematical expression for the optimal inspection interval as a function of these parameters and then an approximation for that expression The approximation indicates that as the risk increases or the ratio of inspection to disease cost decreases by a factor of n, the inspection interval should be reduced by n1/2 We also report an experiment indicating that subjects who generate optimal inspection intervals use examples as anchors and then perform adjustments for variations in risk and cost factors However, they do not approximate the appropriate square-root adjustment rule The observed anchor-and-adjust process suggests that normative recommendations may serve as influential benchmarks, even if they are not adhered to directly
Identification of ϱ-antigenic determinants on the surface, of mouse T-lymphocytes

A monospecific antiserum has been prepared in rabbits against purified ϱ-antigen, a 100,000 mol.wt glycoprotein found on the surface of mouse L-cells. This antiserum has been employed to demonstrate the presence of ϱ-antigenic determinants selectively on the surface of mouse T-, but not B-lymphocytes.
Carbon dynamics of logarithmetic and stationary phase phytoplankton as determined by track autoradiography.

Track autoradiographic analysis of photosynthetic radiocarbon incorporation at the cellular level indicated that the carbon uptake rate and carbon pool size of exponentially growing (log phase) Scenedesmus cells was threefold that of stationary phase cells, while carbon turnover rates were similar. Carbon fixation was uncoupled from growth and cell division in the stationary phase cells, which were larger and contained less chlorophyll per unit volume than log phase cells. Changes in the temporal pattern of isotope incorporation were evident at the cell level prior to the cessation of division and transition to stationary phase, while bulk carbon fixation responded only the second day after cell division ceased. The carbon uptake patterns of a marine nanoplankter from a nutrient-enriched natural sample resembled that of log phase cells while the control population pattern resembled that of stationary cells. The physical, biochemical, and metabolic differences between log and stationary phase cells are potentially measurable by flow cytometry procedures currently in use and under development. The use of flow cytometry to sort cell types for analysis by track auto-radiography and subsequent correlation of metabolic characteristics with flow cytometry signatures is a feasible means of investigating the heterogeneity of phytoplankton metabolic state in the marine environment.
Biochemical assay by immobilized enzymes and a mass spectrometer.

Abstract By counting the volatile molecules produced by an immobilized-enzyme catalyzed reaction which is interfaced to a mass spectrometer via a semi-permeable membrane, a general approach to biochemical measurement and detection is obtained which offers the potential of high sensitivity, specificity and speed. In combination with molecule microscopy, this method should allow, for example, a mapping of suitable enzyme distributions in non-stained and non-fixed tissue slices. Immobilized urease (urea amidohydrolase, EC 3.5.1.5) was used to assay urea using CO 2 as the volatile product, and alcohol dehydrogenase (alcohol: NAD + oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.1) was used to assay NADH using ethanol as the volatile product.
Fluorescent light induces malignant transformation in mouse embryo cell cultures

Fluorescent light induced a dose-dependent malignant transformation in mouse C3H10T1/2 cells. A plateau in the dose-response curve for transformation was correlated with that observed with ultraviolet light exposure. The similarity in the two dose-response patterns suggests that similar molecular processes may be involved in the induction of malignant transformation by the two types of radiation.
Performance Modeling of Service Businesses

Business performance continues to be one of the principal subjects in enterprise operations. The evolution of the service economy brings renewed interest to the field of performance modeling. Senior managerial decision makers constantly seek to improve the performance of an organization. Key areas of interest are what aspects of the business are important for successful performance, and how best to control them, e.g., what investments, resource allocations, and other actions must they take to maximize business performance. Our ultimate goal is to develop quantitative models and associated methods or tools that will help high-level managers of services businesses improve their performance. We believe that most organizations could improve their understanding of what drives their performance by following a more rigorous methodology. In this paper, we explore the possibility of modeling performance through reviewing relevant work from several different technical areas and developing a preliminary approach based on our learning.
Comparison of discharge tubes for deuterium-specific gas chromatographic detection with a microwave-induced plasma.

L'etude decrit la comparaison de tubes a decharge en quartz et en nitrure de bore pour la detection specifique du deuterium
Matching Product Catgeory and Country Image Perceptions: A Framework for Managing Country-of-Origin Effects

The study of country-of-origin (COO) effects examines how consumers perceive products emanating from a particular country. This study examines COO in terms of the fit between countries and product categories. A framework is suggested which matches the importance of product category dimensions with the perceived image of the country-of-origin along the same dimensions. Such matches (or mismatches) can be either favorable or unfavorable. Managers can use product-country match information to assess consumers' purchase intentions, and assist them in managing their product's COO. Data collected from consumers in Ireland, Mexico, and the United States demonstrate the product-country match framework and its strategic implications.
The size of the averages of strongly mixing random variables

Abstract Mixing conditions have frequently been found to be satisfactory substitutes for independence in attempts to generalize the classical limit theorems of probability theory. We find that there is a natural way to classify stationary sequences with respect to the way in which the sizes of the corresponding averages are controlled by the moments of the marginal distribution, using two of the standard mixing conditions. Stationary sequences of φ-mixing random variables have averages controlled by their moments in the same way as independent sequences, whereas the weaker condition of strong mixing is shown, via examples, not to in general imply results analogous to the classical theorems.
Effects of Time-Since-Fire and Microhabitat on the Occurrence and Density of the Endemic Paronychia chartacea ssp. chartacea in Florida Scrub and Along Roadsides

Conservation of an imperiled plant species requires an understanding of its local occurrence and density in relation to habitat variation. Paronychia chartacea ssp. chartacea is a federally threatened species restricted to gaps in fire-maintained Florida rosemary scrub and to roadside sites that mimic scrub gaps. To assess the effects of time-since-fire and microhabitat on the occurrence and density of Paronychia populations, we conducted surveys of 119 scrub gaps and 16 roadside macroplots. In rosemary scrub, we found that the frequency of gap occupancy decreased with time-since-fire and that Paronychia occurrence and density were greater in the centers of large gaps than in small gaps or large gap edges. In roadside sites, the distance from adjacent rosemary scrub did not affect the presence of Paronychia, but density increased with distance from rosemary scrub vegetation. Paronychia densities in roadside sites were most similar to densities in recently burned rosemary scrub. Time-since-fire and microhabitat quality affect the occurrence and density of Paronychia and should be considered in management of Paronychia populations.
Motocross morbidity: economic cost and injury distribution in children.

BACKGROUND: Motocross is a nationally organized sport that is growing in popularity. The distribution and severity of motocross injuries in the pediatric population is not known. We hypothesize a high rate of musculoskeletal injuries requiring hospitalization and/or surgical intervention. METHODS: All patients 17 years of age or younger with injuries sustained while using off-road 2-wheeled motorcycles were identified through surgical, diagnostic, and trauma registries at a level 1 regional trauma center. Type, severity, and mechanism of injury were assessed, as well as charges billed for medical care. Both recreational and competitive motocross activities were included. RESULTS: From 2000 to 2007, 299 cases were noted in 249 unique patients. In 141 instances, hospital admission was required, for a total of 412 inpatient days. Twenty patients required ICU admission. Surgery was performed in 91 cases (81 orthopaedic, 6 general, 1 urology, and 4 facial reconstructions). Orthopaedic surgical procedures included treatment of 29 femur fractures, 8 forearm, 6 ankle, 5 tibial shaft, 6 proximal tibia, 5 spine, 6 proximal humerus, 4 hand, 4 foot, 3 elbow fractures, and 5 other. Orthopaedic interventions also included 8 reductions under general anesthesia and 31 conscious sedations. Mean age at injury was 14.1 years (range: 5.4 to 17.9). Ninety-four percent of patients were male and 85% were White. The majority of patients were wearing helmets/safety equipment. One hundred and eighty-four injuries occurred on a track, with 150 during competition. The mean charge billed per injury was $14,947 (range: $105 to $217,780), with a total cost of $4.5 million. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly half of motocross patients treated at a regional level 1 trauma center required hospitalization, and nearly one-third required surgery. The vast majority of surgical procedures (89%) were orthopaedic. Despite a high usage rate of helmets and protective gear, severe injuries were still sustained, including femur fracture (29), hemiparesis/spinal cord injury (2), and head injury (43). The majority of injuries occurred during organized race or practice. Families should be counseled with regard to the use of safety equipment and the severity of injuries sustained during competitive motocross activity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series. Language: en
Synthesis of hollow nanoparticles by plasma polymerization

A capacitively coupled low pressure plasma is used to produce particles by plasma polymerization of various organic precursors. The particles produced by this method are spherical, submicron in diameter, and contain a hollow center. Sixteen organic molecules were tested for the ability to produce hollow particles. Of these, 12 were found to reproducibly result in the formation of hollow particles while the other 4 either produced non-hollow particles or no particles at all under the conditions investigated here. Cyclohexane derivatives and the presence of an aromatic ring correlate strongly with a tendency to form hollow centers. The particle sizes vary from 70 nm to nearly 1 μm and the core diameter is on the average 18 of the particle diameter. The corresponding shell thickness ranges from 24 nm for styrene to about 360 nm for cyclohexane. To explain the formation of hollow centers a mechanism is proposed based on the hypothesis that the solid phase is formed via crosslinking and solidification of viscous drop. This mechanism explains the observed linear relationship between core size and particle size.
Does impulsiveness moderate response to financial incentives for smoking cessation among pregnant and newly postpartum women

We examined whether impulsiveness moderates response to financial incentives for cessation among pregnant smokers. Participants were randomized to receive financial incentives delivered contingent on smoking abstinence or to a control condition wherein incentives were delivered independent of smoking status. The study was conducted in two steps: First, we examined associations between baseline impulsiveness and abstinence at late pregnancy and 24-weeks-postpartum as part of a planned prospective study of this topic using data from a recently completed, randomized controlled clinical trial (N = 118). Next, to increase statistical power, we conducted a second analysis collapsing results across that recent trial and two prior trials involving the same study conditions (N = 236). Impulsivity was assessed using a delay discounting (DD) of hypothetical monetary rewards task in all three trials and Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS) in the most recent trial. Neither DD nor BIS predicted smoking status in the single or combined trials. Receiving abstinence-contingent incentives, lower baseline smoking rate, and a history of quit attempts prepregnancy predicted greater odds of antepartum abstinence across the single and combined trials. No variable predicted postpartum abstinence across the single and combined trials, although a history of antepartum quit attempts and receiving abstinence-contingent incentives predicted in the single and combined trials, respectively. Overall, this study provides no evidence that impulsiveness as assessed by DD or BIS moderates response to this treatment approach while underscoring a substantial association of smoking rate and prior quit attempts with abstinence across the contingent incentives and control treatment conditions.
NON-DESTRUCTIVE CHLOROPHYLL ASSAY FOR SCREENING OF STRAINS OF BRADYRHIZOBIUM JAPONICUM

Abstract In greenhouse-grown soybeans [ Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv Clark] supplied with different amounts of combined nitrogen (0. 75. 150, 300 or 600 mg N as NH 4 NO) 3 . the chlorophyll content of leaf discs was significantly correlated with shoot dry weight ( r = 0.90; P r = 0.88; P Bradyrhizobium japonicum strains of varying effectiveness, there was a highly significant ( P r = 0.89); shoot total N ( r = 0,88): shoot N-fixed ( r = 0.88); nodule dry weight ( r = 0.85); and total nitrogenase activity ( r = 0.79). Effectiveness ranking of strains of B. japonicum based on chlorophyll estimates and shoot total N were similar. In field-grown soybean plants, the chlorophyll content of leaf discs was also significantly ( r = 0.92; P l ) correlated with N accumulated in the plant tops. Our data support the use of leaf chlorophyll content as an indirect measure of N status of greenhouse and field-grown soybeans and the effectiveness ranking of strains of rhizobia.
Meta-analysis of Cultural Differences: Another Slice at the Apple

Abstract We present a meta-analysis of the effects of cultural differences on multinational firms’ entry strategy and performance. Replicating previous studies, we find only a weak negative relationship between cultural differences and both entry strategy and performance. However, when the moderating effects of time, MNE origin, and cultural-differences operationalization are taken into account, an interesting picture emerges which presents new insights. The relationships for entry strategy and firm performance are consistently moving in opposite directions across all three moderators. This suggests that cultural differences still have a strong influence on MNE activity and it emphasizes the continued importance of developing cross-culturally competent managers.
Quantum size effect induced modification of the chemisorption properties of thin metal films

We present temperature programmed desorption data and inverse photoemission (IPE) spectra that directly demonstrate the effects of quantum confinement of electrons in an ultrathin metal film on molecular chemisorption at the film's surface. The prototypical system of CO adsorbed on the $n$-monolayers-$\mathrm{Cu}∕\mathrm{fcc}\mathrm{Fe}∕\mathrm{Cu}(100)\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}[2lnl15]$ was explored. For all films, the CO peak desorption temperature $({T}_{\mathrm{des}})$ is lower than that of Cu(100). Moreover, oscillations in ${T}_{\mathrm{des}}$ are correlated with oscillations in the IPE intensity at the Fermi level $({E}_{\mathrm{F}})$ caused by metallic quantum well states in the Cu overlayer passing through ${E}_{\mathrm{F}}$ as function of film thickness.
Isolation and characterization of two alleles of the chicken cytochrome c gene.

Abstract Analysis of total chicken DNA by genomic blot hybridization indicates that only one cytochrome c gene exists in the chicken genome. The two alleles of this single cytochrome c gene have been isolated from a Charon 4A-chicken genomic library. This isolation made use of the yeast CYC1 cytochrome c gene as a specific hybridization probe. The 2 chicken alleles, CC9 and CC10, have been sequenced. The amino acid sequence predicted by these 2 alleles is identical, and agrees with the published chicken cytochrome c protein sequence. The flanking regions of these 2 alleles exhibit approximately 1% divergence, indicating a very limited polymorphism. Comparative sequence analysis with the flanking regions of previously isolated cytochrome c genes (yeast and rat) indicate no significant regions of homology. The presence of only one cytochrome c-like sequence in the chicken genome is in striking contrast with mammalian genomes, which contain as many as 20-30 cytochrome c-like sequences.
On trends in gas-phase acidities of elemental hydrides

Abstract The acidities of elemental hydrides within Groups IV through VII show a fairly systematic variation with the reciprocal of the hydride bond length. The magnitude of this variation is rationalized using an electrostatic potential energy model of protonation.
A member of the virus family Narnaviridae from the plant pathogenic oomycete Phytophthora infestans

A virus that has properties consistent with inclusion in the virus family Narnaviridae was described in Phytophthora infestans, the oomycete that caused the Irish potato famine. The genome of phytophthora infestans RNA virus 4 (PiRV-4) is 2,984 nt with short complementary terminal sequences and a single open reading frame predicted to encode an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) most closely related to saccharomyces cerevisiae narnavirus 20S (ScNV-20S) and ScNV-23S, the members of the genus Narnavirus, family Narnaviridae. This report constitutes the first description of a member of the family Narnaviridae from a host taxon outside of the kingdom Fungi.
Contribution of reduced mitral regurgitant volume to vasodilator effect in severe left ventricular failure secondary to Coronary artery disease or idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

Although vasodilators improve cardiac output in severe left ventricular (LV) failure, the degree to which reduction in mitral regurgitation (MR) contributes to this response is unknown. In the present study, nitroprusside-induced changes in forward cardiac output were compared with simultaneous radionuclide LV output in 14 patients with severe LV systolic dysfunction in the absence of known primary valvular disease. Regurgitant output was estimated as LV output minus forward output and regurgitant fraction was calculated as regurgitant output/LV output. At rest, LV ejection fraction averaged 0.16 ± 0.04 (mean ± standard deviation). Patients were classified into 2 groups based on regurgitant fraction at rest. Group I (n = 5) had little or no detectable valvular regurgitation, with regurgitant fraction less than 0.10; group II (n = 9) had evidence of MR with regurgitant fraction greater than 0.30. Nitroprusside increased forward cardiac output in all patients in both groups, but this effect was significantly greater in group II (64 ± 34%) than in group I (31 ± 17%) (p
Expression vector pT7:TKII for the synthesis of authentic biologically active RNA encoding vaccinia virus thymidine kinase.

Abstract A transcription vector, pT7: TKII, was constructed by a novel application of the polymerase chain reaction. Chimeric oligodeoxynucleotides were used to direct the synthesis of a DNA fragment which consisted of a truncated bacteriophage T7 promoter element fused to the vaccinia virus (VV) thymidine kinase gene ( tk ). This fragment was cloned into a pUC118 plasmid and sequenced to ensure no mutations had occurred during its synthesis. When linearized at the 3' end of the VV tk gene at the Bam HI site located in the polylinker region of the vector, pT7: TKII was efficiently transcribed by T7 RNA polymerase into a 595 nucleotide transcript whose 5 ' end was identical to that found on authentic nascent VV tk mRNA. When translated in a rabbit reticulocyte lysate system, the synthetic VV tk RNA was shown to be biologically active in that it directed the synthesis of a 20-kDa protein which assembled into an enzymatically active 80-kDa tetrameric complex which was indistinguishable from W thymidine kinase (TK) enzyme isolated from VV-infected cells. The pT7 : TKII vector provides a powerful approach with which: ( i ) to investigate the translational and posttranslational regulation of the VV tk gene; ( ii ) to use directed genetics to identify potential cis -acting regulatory sequences or structures present within the VV tk RNA; and ( iii ) to apply protein engineering procedures to identify the catalytic, allosteric and subunit interactive domains of the VV TK enzyme. As an example, the translational effects of adding a m 7 G cap structure to the pT7 : TKII-derived VV tk RNA are presented.
Flexible Psychotherapy in Psychosomatic Disorders

In presenting our findings with regard to the therapeutic process most effective with patients suffering from "psychosomatic disorders," we shall describe how this process was used on two patients with duodenal ulcer. With these examples as a basis, we shall then summarize our experiences with the therapy of various "psychosomatic" disorders. These experiences, based upon the study of some 1,500 patients, are being surveyed for subsequent detailed analysis.
A note on strategy elimination in bimatrix games

In bimatrix games we study the process of successively eliminating strategies which are dominated by other pure strategies. We show how to perform this simplification in O(n^3) time, where n is the number of strategies. We also prove that the problem is P-complete, which suggests that it is inherently sequential.
Reactive Game Engine Programming for STEM Outreach

In this paper we present our experiences using a novel programming style, reactive programming, to deliver a summer camp for students in grades 8 through 12. This software uses a declarative programming approach to allow students without a background in computing to explore a wide variety of subject material within a 3D virtual environment, including computer science, mathematics, physics, and art. This work is based on PyFRP, a reactive programming library written in Python. We describe our camp experience and provide examples of how this style of programming supports a wide variety of educational activities.
Creation of a high-amylose durum wheat through mutagenesis of starch synthase II (SSIIa)

In cereal seeds, mutations in one or more starch synthases lead to decreased amylopectin and increased amylose content. Here, the impact of starch synthase IIa (SSIIa or SGP-1) mutations upon durum starch was investigated. A screen of durum accessions identified two lines lacking SGP-A1, the A genome copy of SGP-1. The two lines were determined to carry a 29 bp deletion in the first exon of SSIIa. The SGP-A1 nulls were crossed with the durum variety ‘Mountrail’ and F5 derived SGP-A1 null progeny lines were treated with EMS. From each EMS population, one SGP-B1 null mutation was recovered with each being a missense mutation. Each of the SGP-1 nulls was found to have large increases in amylose content and reduced binding of SGP-2 and SGP-3 to the interior of starch granules. RNA-Seq was used to examine the impact the loss of SGP-1 has upon other starch biosynthetic genes. Significant increases in transcript levels of several starch biosynthetic genes were observed in SGP-1 nulls relative to Mountrail. The resultant high amylose durums may prove useful in the creation of value added pasta with increased firmness and reduced glycemic index.
A New Concept for Nanoparticle Distribution in SBR/NBR Blend Solution and Films via Molecular Confinement

A novel mechanism of carbon black network formation in a binary immiscible rubber blend has been proposed in this paper. The network formation implies that the specific rubber molecules are selectively confined into the void of carbon black aggregate structure during their solution mixing. The selective adsorption and the feature of the conductive network formation have much potential concerning both fundamental understanding and industrial application to improve conductive polymer composites.
Measuring the (dis-)similarity between expert and novice behaviors as serious games analytics

The behavioral differences between expert and novice performance is a well-studied area in training literature. Advances in technology have made it possible to trace players' actions and behaviors within an online gaming environment as user-generated data for performance assessment. In this study, we introduce the use of string similarity to differentiate likely-experts from a group of unknown performers (mixture of novices and experts) based on how similar their in-game actions are to that of experts. Our findings indicate that string similarity is viable as an empirical assessment method to differentiate likely-experts from novices and potentially useful as the first performance metric for Serious Games Analytics (SEGA).
Reflection high-energy electron-diffraction studies of the growth of YBa2Cu3O7-x and DyBa2Cu3O7-x superconducting thin films.

Studies of intensity oscillations of the specularly reflected reflection high-energy electron-diffraction (RHEED) beam during the growth of ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$ and ${\mathrm{DyBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$ thin films on (100)${\mathrm{SrTiO}}_{3}$ substrates are presented. These studies have been conducted under controlled conditions of atomic fluxes, substrate temperatures, and oxygen partial pressures. The periods of the oscillations have been observed to increase when the substrate vicinal angle is increased, at fixed flux. Oscillation amplitudes have been found to depend on the substrate temperature. The oscillation time periods as well as amplitudes for the Dy and Y compounds have been found to be dramatically different. These observations have been characterized within the framework of a model of RHEED oscillations, which attributes them to changing surface step densities and distributions. After appropriate normalization, the time dependences of the RHEED oscillations obtained at different temperatures coincide for each compound. This indicates that these oscillations are a consequence of surface steps. Such an interpretation yields qualitatively accurate predictions of observed intensity oscillation profiles and is also consistent with transmission-electron-microscope (TEM) studies of nucleation and growth. Bare substrate areas have been found in TEM studies in films which, during growth, exhibited 12 periods of RHEED intensity oscillations. Discrepancies have been found in the thicknesses of films as measured by RHEED oscillations and Rutherford backscattering. These results indicate that assertions of superconductivity in single unit-cell thick layers based on the observation of RHEED oscillations are open to question.
The Mapuche man who became a woman shaman: Selfhood, gender transgression, and competing cultural norms

Through the life experiences of Marta, a Mapuche male transgendered shaman in Chile, I analyze how selfhood is gendered dynamically by individual desire and competing cultural and religious norms. Marta's unique identity as a divine heterosexual woman is based on a spiritual transformation, her manner of dressing, and her gender performances. It challenges conventional notions of transvestism, transgenderism, and homosexuality linked to sexed bodies. At the same time, Marta's self is shaped and constrained by the normative gender ideologies of the Virgin Mary, shamanic lore, the Mapuche, and dominant Chilean society.
Sensitivity of biogenic emissions simulated by a land-surface model to land-cover representations

Abstract We evaluate the sensitivity of biogenic emissions simulated by a land-surface model (LSM) to different representations of land-cover vegetation. We drive the community land model on a 0.1° grid over Texas, USA, from 1993 to 1998 using bilinearly interpolated North American Regional Reanalysis data. Two land-cover datasets provide the starting point for analysis: (1) a satellite-derived vegetation and soil-color database and (2) a vegetation-distribution dataset derived from ground surveys. These datasets help us to qualitatively characterize the uncertainty in land-cover representations. We systematically vary the datasets to examine the sensitivity of modeled emissions to variation in representation of bare-soil fraction, vegetation-type distribution, and phenology. Different datasets’ representation of vegetation-type distribution leads to simulated mean statewide total biogenic emissions that vary by a factor of 3. Variation in specified bare-soil fraction causes simulated statewide average emissions that vary by a factor of 1.7. Scaling leaf area index values within reasonable bounds causes a near-linear change in simulated emissions. Differences in simulated values are the largest for major metropolitan regions and for eastern and central Texas, where biogenic emissions are the highest and where tropospheric ozone pollution is a significant concern. Changing bare-soil fraction alters simulated vegetation temperature and consequently indirectly affects modeled emissions (⩽16% of inherent emissions capacity). Our estimates of the model sensitivity to land-cover representation are consistent with those for other regions.
Schizophrenia, psychosis, and cerebral spinal fluid homovanillic acid concentrations

Neuroleptic drugs block brain dopamine receptors and are effective in treating psychoses of diverse origins. This finding has become a cornerstone of the dopamine theory of schizophrenia, but clinical studies relating schizophrenia, per se, to brain dopamine metabolism have ranged from controversial to negative. This article presents new evidence that cerebrospinal fluid levels of the dopamine metabolite homovanillic acid are related to the severity of psychosis in schizophrenia. These results support the concept that homovanillic acid levels in cerebrospinal fluid vary as a function of psychosis rather than being related to the diagnosis of schizophrenia per se.
OPTIMAL HOUSING COST ESTIMATES FOR 177 U.S. METROPOLITAN AREAS

This research tests the ability of six metropolitan-level measures of housing costs to predict a benchmark housing cost measure based on Aten's area price level index. The first four measures are calculated with U.S. Census Data, the fifth is based on HUD Fair Market Rents, and the sixth is the housing portion of the ACCRA Index. In 25 large metropolitan areas, the fourth measure predicts 86 percent of the variation in the benchmark index in 1990 and 85 percent in 2000. The fifth measure performs nearly as well. The paper concludes both are promising measures of living costs.
CAD simulated and experimental beam profile analysis of single-mode tapered fibers for optical bandwidth enhancement applications

Most developments in data transfer techniques are incremental by nature and the goal of increasing total capacity in optical communications and networking requires new concepts for basic transmission media. The transmission data rates can only be enhanced by introducing new modulation and multiplexing techniques. In this paper different single mode tapered fiber waveguides are used to design a Spatial Multiplexer Unit (SMU) for a novel optical fiber multiplexing technique called the Spatial Domain Multiplexing (SDM) that allows co-propagation of two or more channels of exactly same wavelength without interfering with each other. This paper also presents a CAD model for the SMU and then compares the output beam profiles from different single mode tapered fibers to determine the optimum geometry for the SMU. Finally experimental and simulated beam profiles for the SMU are presented.
Brazilian peppertree ( Schinus terebinthifolius ) in Florida and South America: evidence of a possible niche shift driven by hybridization

Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Anacardiaceae) was introduced into Florida from South America in the 1800s and commercialized as an ornamental plant. Based on herbaria records and available literature, it began to escape cultivation and invade ruderal and natural habitats in the 1950s, and is now considered to be one of Florida’s most widespread and damaging invasive plants. Historical records and molecular evidence indicate that two genetic lineages of Brazilian peppertree were established in Florida, one in Miami on the east coast and a second near Punta Gorda on the west coast. Since arriving, the distributions of these two types have greatly expanded, and they have extensively hybridized. Principal component analysis and reciprocal niche fitting were used to test the equivalency of climatic niches of the Florida populations with the climatic niches of the two South American chloroplast haplotype groups which established in Florida. Both approaches indicated a significant shift in niches between the parental populations in the native range and the invasive populations in Florida. The models, however, closely predicted the areas of initial establishment. We hypothesize that (1) Brazilian peppertree was able to gain an initial foothold in Florida due to niche similarity and (2) the current dissimilarity in native and exotic niches is due to hybridization followed by rapid selection of genotypes adapted to Florida’s climate. In addition, to examine the potential consequence of the introduction of additional genetic diversity from the native range on invasion success, a niche model constructed with occurrences of all native genotypes was projected onto the continental United States. The result of this test indicated that under such an event, the potential invasive range would greatly expand to cover most of the southeastern USA. Our study suggests that multiple introductions from disjunct regions in the native range can facilitate invasion success.
Selected topics from Hadron 99—experimental summary

Abstract I gave a summary talk on the experimental part of Hadron 99. However, this writeup is not a summary in its normal sense but rather a collection of a few topics not fully covered at the Conference.
Market information strategies for online retailers

With the rapid development of the internet, many retailers or individuals nowadays use this technology to engage in direct online sales. When a retailer sells its product through the internet-based market, the value of market information has an important impact on its expected profit. The value of market information depends not only on its forecast accuracy but also on the product characteristics the retailer sells. We develop a theoretic approach to examine how the effect of market information on firm profit is moderated by product characteristics. Our results suggest that more accurate market information always is more valuable for firm profit when product quality is higher and web-product fit is larger. Based on our analytical results, we propose the optimal marketing strategies for the online retailers to adopt.
Effect of work hours, caseload, shift type, and experience on resident call performance.

Rationale and Objectives To analyze the independent effects of multiple variables on resident call performance. Materials and Methods Independent radiology resident “on call” cross-sectional imaging interpretation quality assurance (QA) data obtained during a 171-day period at a single tertiary care Level 1 trauma teaching institution was reviewed. Clinically significant resident-faculty discrepancies were compared among three different call types: traditional single-day overnight call (OC, 15 hours/night after 9 daytime hours on weekdays), 7-night nightfloat (NF, 9 hours/night), and weekend day call (WD, 10 hours/day). Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations. Results There were 119 (0.89%) clinically significant resident-faculty discordances from 13,424 cross-sectional interpretations: 56 (0.79%) from 7102 interpretations on 172 OC shifts, 39 (0.85%) from 4567 interpretations on 165 NF shifts, and 24 (1.4%) from 1755 interpretations on 49 WD shifts. Individual residents (n = 20) had a mean discrepancy rate of 0.9% (0.45%–1.9%). Overall, 102 (26.2%) of the shifts had at least one discordance. The following were associated with significantly (P Conclusion Increasing caseload, junior residents, and weekends are associated with a significantly higher discrepancy rate. OC is associated with a significantly higher discrepancy rate than NF. Measured discrepancy rates are low, regardless of call type.
Radiation and scattering of water waves by rigid bodies

Schwinger's variational formulation is applied to the radiation of surface waves due to small oscillation of bodies. By means of Haskind's theorem the wave forces on a stationary body due to a plane incident wave are found using only far-field properties. Results for horizontal rectangular and vertical circular cylinders are presented.
On the Synergy of Conflict and Collective Creativity in Open Innovation Socio-technical Ecologies

Sustaining open innovation requires better understanding how collaborative efforts of contributors yield collective creativity. One of the significant problems in understanding emergence of collective creativity involves how collectives govern and coordinate the actions of individuals to maximize innovation output. Yet, relatively little is known about desirable organizing processes in open innovation communities. To this end, we examine the impact of governance mechanisms and conflict management styles on collective creativity in open source socio-ecologies.Systems model of creativity and proxy metrics formeasuring potential for collective creativity are utilized to conducta simulation study of Open Source Software socio-ecologies.Findings suggest that decentralized coordination schemes suchas emergent selection that are observed in utility communitiesalong with moderate degrees of assertiveness and cooperationfor conflict management result in higher incidence of innovation
Application of genetic based algorithms to optimal capacitor placement

Reactive power dispatch problem is still an active problem in the area of power system operation. Finding an optimum solution that provides a balance between system performance and the cost associated with the reactive power placement (in terms of improved voltage profile and voltage stability) is essential. The objective of the research is to explore the applicability of a new emerging global optimization technique, called a genetic algorithm to the reactive power dispatch problem. The algorithm is based on the mechanics of natural selection and has been tested in other fields with promising results. >
Target coherence analysis using canonical correlation decomposition for SAS data

This paper analyzes the connection between the canonical correlations of sonar signals captured using two linear hydrophone arrays and the spatial coherence of the sources that are observed. Analysis of this connection allows for the use of a canonical correlation decomposition (CCD) framework for performing synthetic aperture sonar (SAS)-like processing. In particular, it can be used to extract correlation features of the targets in the frequency domain, which can then be used as a measure for target detection and classification. Results on real and simulated data indicate that coherence patterns are different in the presence of a target when compared to background clutter, and this pattern also changes as a function of the number of sensors on the array.
Development of a multi-modal tissue diagnostic system combining high frequency ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging with lifetime fluorescence spectroscopy

We report the development and validate a multi-modal tissue diagnostic technology, which combines three complementary techniques into one system including ultrasound backscatter microscopy (UBM), photoacoustic imaging (PAI), and time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TR-LIFS). UBM enables the reconstruction of the tissue microanatomy. PAI maps the optical absorption heterogeneity of the tissue associated with structure information and has the potential to provide functional imaging of the tissue. Examination of the UBM and PAI images allows for localization of regions of interest for TR-LIFS evaluation of the tissue composition. The hybrid probe consists of a single element ring transducer with concentric fiber optics for multi-modal data acquisition. Validation and characterization of the multi-modal system and ultrasonic, photoacoustic, and spectroscopic data coregistration were conducted in a physical phantom with properties of ultrasound scattering, optical absorption, and fluorescence. The UBM system with the 41 MHz ring transducer can reach the axial and lateral resolution of 30 and 65 mum, respectively. The PAI system with 532 nm excitation light from a Nd:YAG laser shows great contrast for the distribution of optical absorbers. The TR-LIFS system records the fluorescence decay with the time resolution of ~300 ps and a high sensitivity of nM concentration range. Biological phantom constructed with different types of tissues (tendon and fat) was used to demonstrate the complementary information provided by the three modalities. Fluorescence spectra and lifetimes were compared to differentiate chemical composition of tissues at the regions of interest determined by the coregistered high resolution UBM and PAI image. Current results demonstrate that the fusion of these techniques enables sequentially detection of functional, morphological, and compositional features of biological tissue, suggesting potential applications in diagnosis of tumors and atherosclerotic plaques.
Macrophage M1/M2 Polarization Dynamically Adapts to Changes in Cytokine Microenvironments in Cryptococcus neoformans Infection

The outcome of cryptococcal pneumonia correlates with local macrophage polarization status, as M1 and M2 polarization marks protective and nonprotective responses, respectively. Overall, pulmonary macrophage polarization status changes over time during a cryptococcal infection. This could have been caused by repolarization of individual macrophages or by a replacement of M2-polarized cells by new M1-polarized cells. To explore the ability of macrophages to change between polarization states, we conducted a series of experiments using in vitro macrophages. Coculture of macrophages with Cryptococcus neoformans resulted in development of a weak M1-like phenotype, with modestly increased inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) but lacking interleukin 6 (IL-6) induction. The C. neoformans-induced M1-like polarization state was plastic, as macrophages stimulated first with C. neoformans and then with gamma interferon (IFN-γ) or IL-4 expressed mRNA polarization patterns similar to those stimulated with cytokines alone. To further evaluate macrophage polarization plasticity, cytokine stimulatory conditions were established which fully polarized macrophages. IFN-γ and IL-4 stimulation differentially induced complete M1 and M2 polarization, defined by differential expression of marker mRNA panels, surface marker expression, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) protein production. Switching IFN-γ- to IL-4-stimulating conditions, and vice versa, resulted in uniform changes in profiles of polarization marker genes consistent with the most recent cytokine environment. Furthermore, the ability of sequentially stimulated macrophages to inhibit C. neoformans reflected the most recent polarizing condition, independent of previous polarization. Collectively, these data indicate that M1/M2 macrophage polarization phenotypes are highly plastic to external signals, and interventions which therapeutically repolarize macrophages could be beneficial for treatment of cryptococcosis.