cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The photolysis of Chlorocarbonylbis(triphenylphosphine)iridium(I) in chloroform.

Under 254 or 313 nm irradiation in chloroform, [IrCl (CO)(PPh 3 ) 2 ] is converted cleanly to [IrCl 2 (CO)H(PPh 3 ) 2 ] through the addition of HCl, produced photochemically. Under 254 nm irradiation, some of the reaction of [IrCl(CO)(PPh 3 ) 2 ] occurs by direct photolysis of chloroform, though a greater contribution arises from a reaction initiated through absorption of light by the metal complex. Under 313 nm irradiation, essentially all of the reaction is metal-initiated. The linear dependence of the reaction rate on light intensity and on the fraction of light absorbed by the Ir(I) complex as well as the lack of a deuterium isotope effect rule out a radical process. Instead it is proposed that an association complex between excited state [IrCl(CO)(PPh 3 ) 2 ] and CHCl 3 leads to dissociation of a chlorine atom from CHCl 3, yielding HCl after abstraction of a hydrogen from another CHCl 3. HCl then adds to a ground state [IrCl(CO)(PPh 3 ) 2 ] complex.
The role of muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the discriminative stimulus properties of clozapine in rats.

The present study examined the role of muscarinic receptors in the discriminative stimulus properties of clozapine. One group of rats was trained to discriminate the atypical antipsychotic clozapine (CLZ, 5.0 mg/kg, i.p.) from vehicle in a two-lever drug discrimination procedure, and a second group of rats was trained to discriminate the muscarinic cholinergic antagonist scopolamine (SCP, 0.125 mg/kg, i.p.) from saline. Complete cross-generalization was obtained for SCP in the CLZ-trained rats and for CLZ in the SCP-trained rats. The M1 muscarinic antagonist trihexyphenidyl substituted completely for both CLZ and SCP; however, the M2 antagonist BIBN 99 failed to substitute for either CLZ or SCP. In other substitution tests, the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline, the antihistamine promethazine, and cyproheptadine (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]2A/5-HT2C, histamine, and muscarinic antagonist) substituted completely for CLZ and SCP. The tetracyclic antidepressant mianserin substituted completely in the CLZ-trained rats, but did not substitute for SCP. Compounds that produced partial substitution included the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine, the anxiolytic chlordiazepoxide, and the antipsychotic thioridazine. Other compounds tested only in the CLZ-trained rats that failed to produce reliable CLZ-appropriate responding included N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA, selective agonist for glutamate receptors), metergoline (5-HT2A/5-HT2C antagonist), propranolol (beta noradrenergic antagonist), and phentolamine (alpha noradrenergic antagonist). All of the compounds that produced CLZ-appropriate responding (except for mianserin) display high binding affinities for muscarinic cholinergic receptors. The results of the present study demonstrated that muscarinic receptors (especially M1) play an important role in the mediation of the discriminative stimulus properties of CLZ in rats, and provide additional support for the importance of CLZ's anticholinergic properties as part of it's unique profile as an atypical antipsychotic.
Euclidean path modeling for video surveillance

In this paper, we address the issue of Euclidean path modeling in a single camera for activity monitoring in a multi-camera video surveillance system. The method consists of a path building training phase and a testing phase. During the unsupervised training phase, after auto-calibrating a camera and thereafter metric rectifying the input trajectories, a weighted graph is constructed with trajectories represented by the nodes, and weights determined by a similarity measure. Normalized-cuts are recursively used to partition the graph into prototype paths. Each path, consisting of a partitioned group of trajectories, is represented by a path envelope and an average trajectory. For every prototype path, features such as spatial proximity, motion characteristics, curvature, and absolute world velocity are then recovered directly in the rectified images or by registering to aerial views. During the testing phase, using our simple yet efficient similarity measures for these features, we seek a relation between the trajectories of an incoming sequence and the prototype path models to identify anomalous and unusual behaviors. Real-world pedestrian sequences are used to evaluate the steps, and demonstrate the practicality of the proposed approach.
Textures near the A→A1 transition in superfluid He: NMR and current effects

Abstract The effects on the bending energy as the A−A1 transition is approached are studied. We first investigate the effect on the composite soliton in the A phase; in particular the NMR satellites are calculated as a function of temperature. We also study the influence of the current flow on the stability of the uniform state. The Hook-Hall number that determines the critical flow for the stability of the uniform state is found to decrease as the A1 phase is approached from below.
EFFECTS OF FOOD ABUNDANCE, WEATHER, AND FEMALE CONDITION ON REPRODUCTION IN TREE SWALLOWS (TACHYCINETA BICOLOR)

Abstract Food abundance, weather, and female body condition are believed to influence the timing of breeding and reproductive performance of birds. We simultaneously studied the effects of weather and food abundance on reproduction in Tree Swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) while experimentally reducing female condition and foraging efficiency by clipping some flight feathers prior to egg laying. Control females laid larger clutches earlier in the season, had longer incubation periods, and raised heavier nestlings than experimental females. Fledging success did not differ after controlling for laying date and brood size. Greater insect abundance was associated with laying earlier in the season, heavier eggs, and shorter incubation periods. Most likely, feather-clipping affected clutch size through reduced foraging efficiency, which delayed the date of laying, rather than through loss of body condition. This outcome is consistent with the idea that Tree Swallows are “income” breeders that base their timing of ...
The effects of isolation from birth on the social behaviour of guinea pigs in adulthood

Abstract Six male and seven female guinea pigs were separated from their mothers and siblings at birth and raised in individual, opaque-walled cages. Between the 80th and 90th days of age all were exposed briefly to a like-sexed congener of about the same size. On their 100th day the males were exposed to a receptive female; those failing to mate were caged with a female and retested at regular intervals. The isolated females were placed with a potent male during the first oestrus period following the 90th day. The isolates' behaviour was compared with that of eight males and nine females which had been socially reared, and who were tested in the same general manner as the isolates. The isolates all made contact with the stimulus animal between the ages of 80 and 90 days. Although they did more fur-nibbling and were more playful than the controls, their behaviour was not considered aberrant. When first paired with a receptive (or potent) member of the opposite sex the coital pattern of the isolates of either sex who mated was similar to that of the controls. It was concluded that interaction with congeners is not essential for the development of social behaviour in domestic guinea pigs, although various conditions may affect the likelihood of the males' displaying the copulatory pattern.
An Iterative Modal Identification Algorithm for Structural Health Monitoring Using Wireless Sensor Networks

A novel modal identification approach for the use of a wireless sensor network (WSN) for structural health monitoring is presented, in which the computational task is distributed among remote nodes...
My developing understanding of Roger Wolcott Sperry's philosophy

Reviewed are some of the dramatic experimental results and penetrating analyses characterizing the career of Roger Sperry. These require that we seriously consider his opinions regarding matters not yet testable, especially regarding the brain/mind relationships. His opinions include first, that a worthwhile understanding of brain function requires a biological explanation of consciousness; second, that mental properties described by him as "overall pattern effects in brain dynamics" can govern neuronal traffic at the cellular level by virtue of "mental forces'; and third, that further development of this outlook can provide a scientific basis for moral values. Discussion here is restricted to the first two of these points, urging that most criticisms of them arise largely from semantic confusions inherited from our past. Particular emphasis is placed on distinguishing mind from soul, thus totally separating the brain-onto-mind mapping problem from the nexus problem inherited from Descartes. Taken here is a physicalist position regarding mind, together with agnosticism regarding the nonmaterial.
Fourier transform spectra of the 2100-cm-1 bands of HCN

Abstract The 2100-cm −1 bands of various isotopes of HCN have been measured with a resolution of about 0.01 cm −1 using the Fourier transform spectrometer constructed by J. Brault and co-workers at the National Solar Observatory. The frequencies of 500 HCN lines obtained from absorption spectra of three different isotopic species are reported with an accuracy of approximately 0.0001 cm −1 . Six bands of HCN, two bands of H 13 CN, and two bands of HC 15 N were measured. The 001 ← 000 and 03 1 0 ← 000 of H 13 CN were reported for the first time. New measurements of 03 3 0 ← 000 forbidden transitions (Δ l = 3) were made.
Cancer Cells in the Blood Stream

It is generally accepted that cells from malignant growths are at some stage in the progress of the growth carried by the blood stream from the primary tumor to other parts of the body. Some lodge and form metastases; presumably the larger number are destroyed by lytic properties of the blood stream or tissues and many potential metastases are thus prevented. Possibly large numbers of such cells are present in the blood stream. On this assumption we have studied the blood in cancer cases. The picture of a patient with carcinoma of many months duration, riddled with metastases, is too well known to need detailed description. In such cases cells have been seen in fixed tissues, filling the lumen of vessels, and in many instances invading the vessel walls. Schmidt in 1903 made microscopic examinations of the lungs in 41 cases of advanced malignant disease, and in 15 found tumor emboli in the pulmonary arteries. Pathologists use the evidence of blood vessel invasion as one of the criteria in establishing the diagnosis of carcinoma of the thyroid gland. In a case of carcinoma of the stomach studied by Quensel a small tumor embolus the size of a pea was found in the right auricle of the heart.
Layout considerations in assembly line design

We address the problem of determining the optimal amount of workspace in assembly lines when the number of variations in the product is very large. This situation arises, for example, in automotive assembly plants which assemble the product to order (as is the case in most domestic automotive assembly plants in North America). We describe how the problem is related to a class of queueing systems. Analytical methods are developed to estimate the effects of workspace size on labour, quality, and warranty costs. The approach presented here can be used to study the trade-off between various related costs. We illustrate the concepts with a numerical example. Future research directions are provided.
Bone Density Testing: Science, the Media, and Patient Care

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is an inexpensive, noninvasive, widely available method for diagnosing osteoporosis, assessing fracture risk, and monitoring the effects of therapy. By diagnosing high-risk patients before a fracture occurs, clinicians can intervene early to reduce fracture risk. Appropriate use of DXA results in money saving for healthcare systems that might otherwise be spent for fracture-related care. Recent reports of studies evaluating DXA screening criteria and intervals for retesting have received considerable media coverage, sometimes suggesting that DXA is expensive, over-utilized, and unnecessary. This may lead to more patients who might benefit from early detection of osteoporosis remaining undiagnosed. We advocate for the use of current clinical practice guidelines with individualization of patient care factors to determine the optimal intervals for DXA testing.
Has Medicare Part D Reduced Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Prescription Drug Use and Spending?

Objective To evaluate whether Medicare Part D has reduced racial/ethnic disparities in prescription drug utilization and spending. Data Nationally representative data on white, African American, and Hispanic Medicare seniors from the 2002–2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey are analyzed. Five measures are examined: filling any prescriptions during the year, the number of prescriptions filled, total annual prescription spending, annual out-of-pocket prescription spending, and average copay level. Study Design We apply the Institute of Medicine's definition of a racial/ethnic disparity and adopt a difference-in-difference-in-differences (DDD) estimator using a multivariate regression framework. The treatment group consists of Medicare seniors, the comparison group, adults without Medicare aged 55–63 years. Principal Findings Difference-in-difference-in-differences estimates suggest that for African Americans Part D increased the disparity in annual spending on prescription drugs by $258 (p = .011), yet had no effect on other measures of prescription drug disparities. For Hispanics, DDD estimates suggest that the program reduced the disparities in annual number of prescriptions filled, annual total and out-of-pocket spending on prescription drugs by 2.9 (p = .077), $282 (p = .019) and $143 (p < .001), respectively. Conclusion Medicare Part D had mixed effects. Although it reduced Hispanic/white disparities related to prescription drugs among seniors, it increased the African American/white disparity in total annual spending on prescription drugs.
Comments on the stability of solid/liquid/fluid contact lines

Solid/liquid/gas contact lines are encountered in such phenomena as flotation, detergency, adhesion, and oil recovery. Gibb's method of constrained equilibrium states is applied to the problem of contact line stability. Two situations are considered: a somewhat general configuration not subjected to external fields and a specific configuration in the gravity field. The latter configuration is the axisymmetric dry patch whose stability has already been rigorously studied by Huh and Taylor and Michael. In the discussion, it is always assumed that the solid surface is ideal in that it is smooth, homogeneous, and in a constant state of strain independent of the presence of the other phases. Furthermore, the solid is mutually insoluble with the liquid and gas phases. (18 refs.)
The effect of chiropractic manipulation on salivary cortisol levels

Background: The stress response in humans is a healthy response and is necessary for life. The effects of chiropractic manipulation (CM), if any, on stress are ill-defined. Cortisol has been used as an accurate measure of the stress response system in humans. Salivary cortisol is a noninvasive technique to accurately quantify biologically active cortisol. Objective: To determine whether basal salivary cortisol levels can be properly detected and whether CM has any direct effect on basal salivary cortisol levels in humans. Methods: Subjects were adult male students attending a chiropractic college. Salivary samples were collected for 5 weeks. During Week 1, samples were collected by the students at home upon waking. During Weeks 2 through 5, home samples were collected upon waking and were followed by an additional time course of samples collected in a laboratory setting before and after CM. Salivary cortisol was measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Results: Chiropractic manipulative therapy did not significantly change basal salivary cortisol levels. The time course of acute changes to cortisol levels was independent of testing week and group. A decrease in salivary cortisol was detected over time on each trial testing day. Overall, cortisol levels significantly decreased from the time of the home samples until the pretreatment laboratory measurement (P <.05). Cortisol levels subsequently decreased from pretreatment to 15 minutes after treatment (P <.05). After treatment, there were progressive decreases in cortisol levels from the 15- and 30-minute time points to the 60-minute time point (P <.05). Conclusion: The results of this pilot study suggest that there is no effect of CM on salivary cortisol levels in asymptomatic subjects. As such, we conclude that neither the anticipation of CM nor the spinal manipulative procedure itself induces a state of stress or anxiety.
Surgical skills assessment: A blinded examination of obstetrics and gynecology residents ☆ ☆☆ ★

Abstract Objective: We have previously shown that objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) is an innovative, reliable, and valid method of assessing surgical skills. Our goal was to establish the feasibility, reliability, and validity of our surgical skills assessment instrument when administered in a blinded fashion. Study design: A 7-station OSATS was administered to 16 obstetric and gynecology residents from Madigan Army Medical Center. The test included laparoscopic (salpingostomy, intracorporeal knot, and ligation of vessels with clips) and open abdominal procedures (subcuticular closure, bladder neck suspension, enterotomy repair, and abdominal wall closure). All tasks were performed with lifelike surgical models. Residents were timed and assessed at each station with 3 methods of scoring: task-specific checklist, global rating scale, and pass/fail grade. Each resident was evaluated by one examiner blinded as to the postgraduate year level and one examiner who had previously worked with the resident. Results: Assessment of construct validity (the ability to distinguish between resident levels) found significant differences on the checklist, global rating scale, and pass/fail grade by residency level for both blinded and unblinded examiners. Reliability indices calculated with Cronbach's α were .82 for the checklists and .93 for the global rating scale. Overall interrater reliability between blinded and unblinded examiners was 0.95 for global rating scale and ranged from 0.74 to 0.97 for the checklists. The cost to administer the exam for the 16 residents was approximately $1000. Conclusions: OSATS administered in either a blinded or unblinded fashion can assess residents' surgical skills with a high degree of reliability and validity. This study provides further evidence that OSATS can be used to establish surgical competence. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:613-7.)
On the loop-free decomposition of stochastic finite-state systems

Two generalizations of Bacon's theory of loop-free decomposition of probabilistic finite-state systems are proposed. The first of these consists of a modification of the structure of the decomposition which then allows for the decomposition of a larger class of systems. The second generalization subsumes the first: sufficient conditions for a stochastic finite-state system to be decomposable for a single initial distribution on its set of states are given. Several years ago G. Bacon (1964) extended certain results obtained by J. Hartmanis (to be found in Hartmanis and Stearns (1966)) for the loop-free decomposition of deterministic sequential machines to probabilistic finitestate machines. Here, two generalizations of Bacon's theory will be presented. The first will consist of making a structural modification of Bacon's decomposition scheme allowing for the decomposition of a larger class of systems. The second generalization subsumes the first; it is shown that there exist stochastic finite-state systems which admit a loop-free decomposition for a proper subset of the set of all initial distributions on the set of states, while both Bacon's theory and our first generalization hold for the set of all initial distributions. The results will be stated in this section; subsequent sections will contain proofs and pertinent examples. A stochasticfinite-state system (SFS) is the ordered triple M = {X, S,{M(x)}} where X is a finite nonempty alphabet, S is a finite set of n states, and {M(x)} is a set of n X n stochastic matrices consisting of a matrix M(x) for each x E X. The typical entry of M(x), m~(x), is interpreted as the probability * This work was completed while the author was at the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn.
COSMOCERCA VRCIBRADICI N. SP. (ASCARIDIDA: COSMOCERCIDAE), OSWALDOCRUZIA VITTI N. SP. (STRONGYLIDA: MOLINEOIDAE), AND OTHER HELMINTHS FROM PRIONODACTYLUS EIGENMANNI AND PRIONODACTYLUS OSHAUGHNESSYI (SAURIA: GYMNOPHTHALMIDAE) FROM BRAZIL AND ECUADOR

Cosmocerca vrcibradici n. sp. and Oswaldocruzia vitti n. sp., intestinal parasites of Prionodactylus eigenmanni (type host) and P. oshaughnessyi, are described and illustrated. Of the 19 valid species of Cosmocerca, C. vrcibradici n. sp. represents the 12th Neotropical species and the first species to be reported from lizard hosts. Of the 76 valid species of Oswaldocruzia, O. vitti n. sp. represents the 14th Neotropical species and the eighth species to be reported from lizard hosts. In addition, 1 species of Digenea, Mesocoelium monas, and 1 species of Acanthocephala, Acanthocephalus saurius, were found.
The pathophysiology and pharmacology of hepcidin

Inappropriate production of the iron-regulatory hormone hepcidin contributes to the pathogenesis of common iron disorders. Absolute or relative deficiency of hepcidin causes iron overload in hereditary hemochromatosis and iron-loading anemias. Elevated hepcidin causes iron restriction in inflammatory conditions including autoimmune disease, critical illness, some cancers, and chronic kidney disease. Multiple agents targeting hepcidin and its regulators are under development as novel therapeutics for iron disorders. This review summarizes hepcidin biology and discusses the current landscape for hepcidin-targeting therapeutic strategies.
The Devil is in the Details: Exploring Individual Usage of Interlibrary Loan

This article seeks to explore the impact of individual patrons on the interlibrary loan (ILL) service, based on their request volumes. In this study the author sought to gain a better understanding of the number of requests patrons were placing individually and see if an in-depth analysis would highlight potential areas of concern or identify patterns that had gone unnoticed. The author explores the frequency of individual patron requests and their rates of cancellation. In the process, the impact of a small number of high-volume repeat patrons on overall ILL activities and statistics is identified and explored.
Influence of available nitrogen and rice genotype on associative dinitrogen fixation

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes with a high ability to support biological N 2 fixation are of interest because they would enhance N gains in the rice-soil system without changing existing cultural practices. Pot experiments were conducted in a greenhouse during the 1994 wet season to determine the amount of N 2 derived from the atmosphere (Ndfa) by 10 rice genotypes grown in three soils with varying levels of initial soil-NH + 4 -N. Enriched 15 N and natural abundance δ 15 N dilution methods were employed. Flooded soils were puddled with and without 99.5 atom 15 N%-labeled urea to minimize spatial variation of the isotope. The integrated 15 N enrichment of plant available N, calculated using a model that accounts for temporal changes in the isotopic composition, was used as a reference to estimate genotypic differences in Ndfa. The 15 N enrichment of soil available N declined exponentially and was half the original level at 122 d. The δ 15 N values correlated with atom 15 N% excess of enriched 15 N for the rice genotypes grown in two out of three soils. Percentage Ndfa for the genotypes across three soils ranged from 4.2 to 32.2 when calculated using as a reference plant, and from 10.8 to 35.9 when calculated using 15 N enrichment of soil available N as a reference. Genotypic differences were significant and more pronounced at low soil-NH + 4 -N (11 mg kg -1 ) than at higher soil-NH + 4 -N (79 and 92 mg kg -1 ); they ranged from 14.9 to 35.9% at low N and from 10.8 to 23.6% at high N. Some genotypes consistently gave either high or low Ndfa. Because of the low levels and narrow range of genetic differences in associative N 2 fixation, the potential for its improvement through breeding appears to be limited.
Four Grammatic Completion Measures of Language Ability

Sixty normally hearing children from preschool, kindergarten, or second grade each received four commonly used grammatic completion measures: The Berry-Talbott Developmental Guide to Comprehension of Grammar, the Grammatic Closure subtest of the Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Abilities, the Grammatic Completion subtest of the Test of Language Development-Primary, and the Morphological Rules section of the Bankson Language Screening Text. Moderately high overall correlations were found among the four measures. Older children scored higher than younger children. Performance of females and males was similar. Patterns of association among tests remained stable even when effects of age were removed using partial correlations or when standard scores were examined. Children missed the highest proportion of items on the Berry-Talbott test and the lowest proportion of items on the Bankson Screening Test.
Nuclear receptor corepressors

The ability of NR LBDs to transfer repression function to a heterologous DNA binding domain, and the cross-squelching of repression by untethered LBDs, has suggested that repression is mediated by interactions with putative cellular corepressor proteins. The yeast-two hybrid screen for protein interactors has proven to be the key to the isolation and characterization of corepressors. This short review will focus on N-CoR and SMRT.
Effects of Abrupt pH Changes on Survival of Goldfish Fry

AbstractAbrupt pH changes from hatchery to pond water may affect survival of Goldfish Carassius auratus fry after stocking. A total of 12 triplicate pH treatments ranging from 3.57 to 11.50 were used to assess a gradient of abrupt pH changes on survival of 3-d posthatch (dph) Goldfish fry in aquaria during a 24-h exposure experiment. The experiment indicated that the 24-h LC10, LC50, and LC90 pH values for 3 dph Goldfish fry was 9.99, 10.52, and 11.08, respectively, based on an initial pH = 8.38. When pH was decreased below 8.38, the 24-h LC10, LC50, and LC90 occurred at a pH of 4.68, 4.27, and 3.89, respectively. Baitfish farmers should avoid pond water with high pH to reduce fry mortality during the early fry stocking period when the upper lethal pH limit (i.e., LC10, for practical consideration) of 9.99 will become possible.Received July 2, 2013; accepted August 30, 2013
The Interaction of Katabatic Flow and Mountain Waves. Part II: Case Study Analysis and Conceptual Model

Via numerical analysis of detailed simulations of an early September 1993 case night, the authors develop a conceptual model of the interaction of katabatic flow in the nocturnal boundary layer with mountain waves (MKI). A companion paper (Part I) describes the synoptic and mesoscale observations of the case night from the Atmospheric Studies in Complex Terrain (ASCOT) experiment and idealized numerical simulations that manifest components of the conceptual model of MKI presented herein. The reader is also referred to Part I for detailed scientific background and motivation. The interaction of these phenomena is complicated and nonlinear since the amplitude, wavelength, and vertical structure of the mountain-wave system developed by flow over the barrier owes some portion of its morphology to the evolving atmospheric stability in which the drainage flows develop. Simultaneously, katabatic flows are impacted by the topographically induced gravity wave evolution, which may include significantly changing wavelength, amplitude, flow magnitude, and wave breaking behavior. In addition to effects caused by turbulence (including scouring), perturbations to the leeside gravity wave structure at altitudes physically distant from the surface-based katabatic flow layer can be reflected in the katabatic flow by transmission through the atmospheric column. The simulations show that the evolution of atmospheric structure aloft can create local variability in the surface pressure gradient force governing katabatic flow. Variability is found to occur on two scales, on the meso- due to evolution of the mountain-wave system on the order of one hour, and on the microscale due to rapid wave evolution (short wavelength) and wave breaking–induced fluctuations. It is proposed that the MKI mechanism explains a portion of the variability in observational records of katabatic flow.
Effects of pulsed nitrate exposure on amphibian development

Most toxicity tests investigate constant concentrations of a chemical. Concentrations of many compounds in the environment are dynamic, however, and individuals may be more sensitive to pulses of a chemical initiated at specific points during development. Realistic toxicity tests are important to accurately assess the toxicity of a compound. Bufo americanus and Hyla chrysoscelis tadpoles were exposed to concentrations of nitrate, a pervasive stressor in the environment, up to 5 mg/L of NO3-N in constant concentrations and in pulses at three different points during development. At the termination of the experiments, individuals were measured for developmental stability (DS) and traditional fitness correlates (size, body condition, and time to metamorphosis). No significant differences were found in these measures between treatments and controls in B. americanus tadpoles. In H. chrysoscelis, however, more extreme directional asymmetry was found in the middle and late pulses, indicating that the sudden change in concentration of nitrate decreased the level of DS in tadpoles. These results indicate that nitrate has subtle but important effects at low doses, and they suggest that species may be better able to deal with pulses that occur early rather than late in development. A greater understanding about the effects of pulses will help conservation biologists to manage populations and prevent population declines.
Backgrounding Beef Cattle

Stocker operations differ significantly in management techniques and health programs. Critical control points should be identified for each farm and used to ascertain the biggest areas for potential improvement so as to allow proper allocation of resources. A customized wellness program couples medicine and management to minimize the negative impact of disease. A complete program involves animal selection, disease prevention, and management. Calves should be evaluated and classified into appropriate risk categories regarding treatment, management, and performance expectations. Disease prevention strategies should involve increasing immune responses while decreasing pathogen exposure and stress in cattle. Disease management includes the methods used to minimize the impact of illness on the population.
Accurate Probabilistic Treatment of Bit-Pattern-Dependent Nonlinear Distortions in BER Calculations for WDM RZ Systems

We introduce a fully deterministic computationally efficient method for characterizing the effect of nonlinearity in optical fiber transmission systems that utilize wavelength division multiplexing and return-to-zero (RZ) modulation. The method is based on a probability analysis of the bit patterns, and it accurately accounts for bit-pattern-dependence effect due to both nonlinearly induced amplitude and timing jitter. We apply this method in calculating the error probability in a prototypical multichannel RZ undersea system in the presence of both nonlinear distortion and amplifier noise.
Diffraction enhancement in prestack seismic data

Seismic diffractions are often considered noise and are intentionally or implicitly suppressed during processing. Diffraction-like events include true diffractions, wave conversions, or fracture waves which may contain valuable information about the subsurface and could be used for interpretation or imaging. Using synthetic and field data, we examine workflows to separate diffractions from reflections that allow enhancement of diffraction-like signals and suppression of reflections. The workflows consist of combinations of standard processing modules. Most workflows apply normal moveout corrections to flatten reflection hyperbolas, which eases their removal. We observe that the most effective techniques are the decomposition of seismic gathers into eigensections and flows based on Radon transformations.
Modeling web usage profiles of cloud services for utility cost analysis

Early proponents of public cloud computing have come to identify cost savings a key factor for adoption. However, the adoption and hosting of a web application in the cloud does not provide any such guarantees. This is in part due to the utility pricing model that dictates the cost of public cloud resources. In this work we seek to model and simulate data usage for a web application for the purpose of utility cost analysis. Although much research has been performed in the area of web usage mining, previously proposed models are unable to accurately model web usage profiles for a specific web application. In this paper, we present a simulation model and corresponding algorithm to model web usage based on empirical observations. The validation of the proposed model shows that the simulated output conforms to that of what was observed and is within acceptable tolerance limits.
A dual-passband filter architecture for dual-band systems

This paper proposes a novel dual-passband filter based on a Chebyshev filter architecture. The two passbands can be independently tuned to desired frequencies. Also, the filter has the ability to provide matching to impedances with high real values at both frequencies which was impossible in previous design methodologies. This novel feature eliminates the need for further impedance matching through using quarter-wave transformers. The architecture is specifically attractive when matching to dual-resonating loads in dual-band systems. The measured results approve that the proposed method can achieve matching at both desired frequencies.
Optional exercises: relativity

In the previous chapters we have tried to stick to topics that are essential, require no mathematical background beyond the second-year graduate level, and require no physics background beyond the freshman level. This and the next chapter are primarily intended to round out our presentation somewhat by outlining some topics that fail to meet one or more of these criteria. (M, g) is a spacetime throughout this chapter.
Spatial and temporal analysis of microbial populations in production broiler house litter in the southeastern United States1

SUMMARY The main objectives of this study were to discern intrahouse spatial and temporal effects on foodborne and nuisance pathogen bacterial levels in actively used commercial broiler litter. The purpose of the study was to provide critical information regarding microbial hot spots, which may be targeted for site-specific litter treatments. A single broiler-concentrated animal feeding operation was monitored throughout 3 consecutive flocks. Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., Clostridium perfringens, and Campylobacter spp. were monitored at specific locations. Additionally, antibiotic resistance characteristics were quantified from bacterial isolates. Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus spp., and Enterococcus spp. were consistently present at levels of 7 log10, 12 log10, and 8 log10 cfu/ kg of litter, respectively; whereas S. enterica, Campylobacter spp., and L. monocytogenes were not present or present at low levels compared with other bacteria investigated. Temporally, S. enterica was found early in the flock, whereas C. perfringens, Staphylococcus spp., and Enterococcus spp. levels were greater later in the flock. The effect of flock cycle was noted for S. enterica and L. monocytogenes, which were found at greater frequency with the first flock (summer). Salmonella enterica was more commonly associated with the end walls, but overall it appeared that pathogen levels were difficult to predict.
Correlated mass and charge transport induced by statistical nucleon exchange in damped nuclear reactions

Abstract Experimental relations between mass, charge and energy loss of fragments from damped reactions are analyzed in terms of an independent-particle transport model. A quantitative description of data is achieved including the energy-loss dependence of isobaric and isotopic fragment distributions.
Changes in dorsal horn neuronal responses in an experimental wrist contracture model

Joint contracture, a major complication after casting, usually makes the therapeutic outcome worse by causing a limited range of motion and related pain. We developed rat models of wrist contracture with fracture of the radius (group A) and wrist contracture without fracture (group B), and investigated whether contracture and fracture changed the characteristics of cervical dorsal horn neuronal responses and the behavior of the animals. After 4 weeks of immobilization, both groups showed wrist contracture and disuse tendencies in the treated forelimb. In an electrophysiological study, the responses of 403 cervical dorsal horn neurons to mechanical stimuli were examined. In normal (control) animals, the neurons had the following distribution: 63% were low-threshold (LT); 15% were high-threshold (HT); and 22% were wide-dynamic-range (WDR). In group A, the distribution of the neurons changed to 51% LT, 16% HT, and 33% WDR. Similar changes were observed for group B. Responses during wrist movement were also examined. Forty-one percent of cells in the control group were responsive to the movements, whereas the number of neurons responding to motion stimulus in both groups A and B was increased, to 77%. The changed population of WDR and LT neurons responding to wrist movement suggests that the characteristics of dorsal horn neurons may undergo plastic changes after contracture.
Interfirm Competition for Human Resources: Evidence From the Software Industry

To test a model of interfirm competition for human resources, firms’ responses to the loss of employees to single rivals were examined. Results suggest that attributes of hiring firms and of hired employees are associated with target firms’ decisions to defend and retaliate against labor market rivals. The findings have implications for the validation of intrafirm differences in human resource systems. This study opens the door for further theorizing and modeling of interfirm competition for intangible resources. A number of analysts have suggested that one of Wal-Mart’s sources of competitive advantage is its homegrown data warehouse and inventory management systems. In 1998, Internet retailer Amazon.com hired 15 of Wal-Mart’s information technology and logistics professionals intimately familiar with these systems. Alleging unfair competition, Wal-Mart responded by filing suit. Settling the lawsuit out of court, Amazon agreed to reassign most of the hired employees and refrain from actively recruiting Wal-Mart employees for 12 months (Schwartz & Salamone, 1999). Similar interactions have been observed between Microsoft and Borland; Sears and Montgomery Wards; and
Poverty, energy, and resource use in developing countries: focus on Africa.

Energy poverty affects poor communities and poor nations far more severely, and more directly, than in developed nations. Poor rural communities are particularly vulnerable, and the poor globally spend by far the largest percentage of income on energy. To make matters worse, record-high oil prices combined with sharp decline in foreign exchange earnings are key processes influencing the energy sector in Africa. These increases cause tremendous local hardships, but can be used to steer development decisions toward renewable energy technologies. At the same time, breaking up of public monopolies and liberalizing generation and distribution provides an opportunity for a new approach to rural electrification. Given the right incentives and institutional framework, a new set of players (e.g., private entrepreneurs, cooperatives, nongovernmental organizations, and communities) are likely to emerge and dominate reformed rural electricity markets in the future. Through technological and institutional “leap-frogging,” Africa stands to gain significantly by augmenting current initiatives with experience and lessons recently gained in South Asia and Latin America. In these regions, a number of remarkable recent strides to seed and grow rural electricity markets while stimulating and encouraging private investments. Examples of innovative regulatory tools to address poverty include licensing, standards and guidelines, metering, tariffs, transmission charges, and performance-based contracting for energy services.
Analysis and structure of four lentic communities on the Colorado (U.S.A.) shortgrass prairie

Four natural lentic habitats on the Central Plains Experimental Range in Colorado were intensively studied physically, chemically, and biologically for 2 yr (1968–1970) and intermittently for 5 (1971–1975). Lynn Lake and Lake George were chosen as examples of ephemeral or temporary sites, while Cottonwood Pond and Spring Pond were chosen as permanent habitats. Chemically, the waters of each site were analytically separated into dissolved and suspended (sestonic) components. The temporary sites were characterized by their exceptionally high seston loads, the presence of Eubranchiopoda, the prevalence of Ca as the major dissolved cation, ana the high Fe content of their sediments. The two permanent sites, on the other hand, had high total dissolved salt content, rich and varied flora and fauna, Na as the prevalent cation in the dissolved fraction, and high Ca content in the sediments. All four of the sites were “seston digesters” with large amounts of wind-blown organic material being entrapped, decomposed, and mineralized. By comparison with adjacent soils the sediments of all four basins were much richer in K, Zn, Fe, Cu, and Mn. Both temporary and permanent sites function as nutrient sinks. Rates of daily and annual phytoplankton primary productivity are reported for the two permanent sites.
Relationship of Physical Examination Findings and Self-Reported Symptom Severity and Physical Function in Patients With Degenerative Lumbar Conditions

Background and Purpose. Limited data are available to assist clinicians in clinical decision making. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships of symptom provocation during physical examination (PE) procedures and self-report of symptom severity and function in patients with degenerative lumbar conditions. Subjects. Twenty-four men and 50 women with chronic low back pain (CLBP) (>6 months duration) were recruited from a university hospital (median age=64.2 years, X=66.8, SD=12.4, range=55.7–97.8). Methods. Demographic information, medical history, PE findings, and data from 2 self-report measures of symptom severity and function (Lumbar Spinal Stenosis [LSS] questionnaire and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey [SF-36]) were collected. Results. Patients had moderate symptoms of degenerative lumbar conditions (mean LSS symptom score=2.67, SD=0.71) and reported some difficulties with low back function (mean LSS function score=1.99, SD=0.61). The most frequent physical examination findings were a positive quadrant test (70%), followed by lower-extremity muscle weakness (64%), abnormal reflexes (62%), and active lumbar extension (61%). Patients who were symptomatic during the quadrant test, patients who had pain with lateral flexion, and patients who had lower-extremity weakness had higher self-reported LSS symptom severity ( t =−3.06, P =.003; t =−2.96, P =.004; and t =−3.2, P =.002, respectively). Pain with lumbar extension was moderately correlated with LSS symptom severity (Spearman rho=.31, P =.007). No lumbar PE procedure was associated with decreased condition-specific function. The quadrant test was the strongest predictor of symptom severity (β=.54, r 2=.21, P =.0009). Discussion and Conclusion. The association between PE findings and self-reported symptom severity in this sample is consistent with the pathoanatomy of degenerative spinal conditions and indicates that movement that narrows the foraminal space contributes to symptom severity. The quadrant test distinguished those subjects with clinically meaningful low back symptom severity but was not predictive of impaired function. This study illustrates the potential benefit of identifying clinical PE measures that are reflective of condition severity and back-specific function in patients with similar clinical syndromes.
Break-Induced DNA Replication

Recombination-dependent DNA replication, often called break-induced replication (BIR), was initially invoked to explain recombination events in bacteriophage but it has recently been recognized as a fundamentally important mechanism to repair double-strand chromosome breaks in eukaryotes. This mechanism appears to be critically important in the restarting of stalled and broken replication forks and in maintaining the integrity of eroded telomeres. Although BIR helps preserve genome integrity during replication, it also promotes genome instability by the production of loss of heterozygosity and the formation of nonreciprocal translocations, as well as in the generation of complex chromosomal rearrangements.
Anthocyanins and other polyphenolics in American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) and European elderberry (S. nigra) cultivars

BACKGROUND: Ten genotypes representing two elderberry species, Sambucus canadensis L. (eight genotypes) and S. nigra L. (two genotypes), were examined for their anthocyanins (ACY), total phenolics (TP), ! Brix, titratable acidity (TA), and pH over two growing seasons. RESULTS: Overall, fruit generally had higher ACY, TP, ACY/TP, ! Brix, and pH in 2005 than 2004. All samples of S. canadensis had similar anthocyanin profiles to one another, but were distinctly different from S. nigra. Both species had cyanidin-based anthocyanins as major pigments. Previously unreported anthocyanins were identified in some samples in this study. Trace levels of delphinidin 3-rutinoside were present in all elderberry samples except cv. ‘Korsor’. Also, petunidin 3-rutinoside was detected in cvs ‘Adams 2’, ‘Johns’, ‘Scotia’, ‘York’, and ‘Netzer’ (S. canadensis). The identified polyphenolics of both species were mainly composed of cinnamic acids and flavonol glycosides. The major polyphenolic compounds present in S. canadensis were neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and isorhamnetin 3-rutinoside, while chlorogenic acid and rutin were found to be major polyphenolic compounds in S. nigra. CONCLUSION: Sufficient variability was seen among these genotypes to suggest that a successful breeding program could be carried out to improve levels of the various compounds evaluated in this study. ! 2007 Society of Chemical Industry