cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
POLLEN ACCUMULATION RATES AT ROGERS LAKE, CONNECTICUT, DURING LATE- AND POSTGLACIAL TIME

SUMMARY Pollen accumulation rates have been estimated by dividing the pollen number per unit volume in 1 ml samples from a core from Rogers Lake, Connecticut, by the number of years represented by each sample. The latter variable was estimated from 24 radiocarbon-dated levels within the core. The result shows that total pollen deposition rose steeply from 1,000/cm 2 /year, 14,000 years ago to 10,000 / cm 2 / year in later Late Glacial time, reaching a maximum of 40,000/cm 2 /year, 9,000 years ago when the Pine Pollen Zone (B) was deposited. Subsequently the deposition rate fell to 20,(KI0-25,000/cm 2 /year, remaining stable at this level for the last 8,000 years. The pollen-percentage stratigraphy at Rogers Lake is similar to that at other sites in the vicinity. The changes in pollen percentages in sediments less than 8,000 years old directly reflect changes in deposition rates for these types, since the pollen total was almost constant. A rise in the numbers of Carya pollen grains took place about 5,000 years ago, and minimum rates for Tsugapollen deposition occurred between 1,500 and 4,000 years ago. These changes have been considered evidence for a xerothermic interval, but this event may be represented instead by the maximum in percentages and increase in deposition rates for Ambrosia pollen that occurred between 5,000 and 8,000 years ago. In sediments older than 8,000 years, the changes in pollen percentages are quite different from the changes in rates of pollen deposition of individual types. The pollen-accumulation-rate diagram shows that few pollen grains from trees were being deposited 12,000 years ago. Spruce pollen increased at that time, reaching a maximum 10,000 years ago, when an open spruce woodland may have grown in the region. Pine pollen began to increase 12,000 years ago, reaching maximum rates 9,000 years ago 18 times higher than the later Postglacial rate. Oak pollen increased in numbers 12,000 years ago and held steady throughout the remainder of Late Glacial time, increasing rapidly by a factor of 30 during Early Postglacial time.
Academic Resilience in Retrospect: Following up a Decade Later.

In a unique follow-up study, Hispanic (Dominican American) students identified as resilient 10 years ago were reinterviewed to assess their interim progress, and explore how their educational and p...
Max-Min Fair Scheduling in Input-Queued Switches

Fairness in traffic management can improve the isolation between traffic streams, offer a more predictable performance, eliminate transient bottlenecks, mitigate the effect of certain kinds of denial-of-service attacks, and serve as a critical component of a quality-of-service strategy to achieve certain guaranteed services such as delay bounds and minimum bandwidths. In this paper, we choose a popular notion of fairness called max-min fairness and provide a rigorous definition in the context of input-queued switches. We show that being fair at the output ports alone or at the input ports alone or even at both input and output ports does not actually achieve an overall max-min fair allocation of bandwidth in a switch. Instead, we propose a new algorithm that can be readily implemented in a distributed fashion at the input and output ports to determine the exact max-min fair rate allocations for the flows through the switch. In addition to proving the correctness of the algorithm, we propose a practical scheduling strategy based on our algorithm. We present simulation results, using both real traffic traces and synthetic traffic, to evaluate the fairness of a variety of popular scheduling algorithms for input-queued switches. The results show that our scheduling strategy achieves better fairness than other known algorithms for input-queued switches and, in addition, achieves throughput performance very close to that of the best schedulers.
Increased acceptance bandwidths in optical frequency conversion by use of multiple walk-off-compensating nonlinear crystals

We show by experiment and mathematical model that angular and frequency acceptance bandwidths for frequency mixing in a nonlinear crystal can often be improved by segmenting the crystal and reversing the spatial or temporal walk-off in alternating segments. We analyze nonlinear mixing primarily in real space, (x, t), rather than Fourier space, (k, ω), and show that acceptance bands for sum- and difference-frequency mixing can be increased by up to a factor equal to the number of crystal segments. We consider both high- and low-efficiency mixing as well as parametric gain, and show that in many cases of practical interest the increased bandwidth substantially improves conversion efficiency. We also attempt to clarify the role of acceptance bandwidths in frequency mixing.
An Empirical Study of the Impact of Nonlinear Shipping and Handling Fees on Purchase Incidence and Expenditure Decisions

Shipping-fee schedules are an important but underresearched element of the marketing mix for direct marketers. This paper provides an empirical study on the impact of shipping and handling charges on consumer-purchasing behavior. Using a database from an online retailer that has experimented with a wide variety of shipping-fee schedules, we investigate the impact of shipping charges on order incidence and order size. We use an ordered probability model that is generalized to account for the effects of nonlinear and discontinuous shipping fees on purchasing decisions, and to accommodate heterogeneity in response parameters. Results show that consumers are very sensitive to shipping charges and that shipping fees influence order incidence and basket size. Promotions such as free shipping and free shipping for orders that exceed some size threshold are found to be very effective in generating additional sales. However, the lost revenues from shipping and the lack of response by several segments are substantial enough to render such promotions unprofitable to the retailer. Heterogeneity across consumers also suggests interesting opportunities for the retailer to customize the shipping and other marketing-mix promotion offerings.
UV extraordinary optical transmission through nanoslits

The UV extraordinary optical transmission through nanoslit structures in the far-field and localized field enhancement in the near-field are both directly observed. Numerical modeling results are also presented, showing good agreement with the experiment results.
Mechanism of nucleotide sensing in group II chaperonins.

Group II chaperonins mediate protein folding in an ATP-dependent manner in eukaryotes and archaea. The binding of ATP and subsequent hydrolysis promotes the closure of the multi-subunit rings where protein folding occurs. The mechanism by which local changes in the nucleotide-binding site are communicated between individual subunits is unknown. The crystal structure of the archaeal chaperonin from Methanococcus maripaludis in several nucleotides bound states reveals the local conformational changes associated with ATP hydrolysis. Residue Lys-161, which is extremely conserved among group II chaperonins, forms interactions with the γ-phosphate of ATP but shows a different orientation in the presence of ADP. The loss of the ATP γ-phosphate interaction with Lys-161 in the ADP state promotes a significant rearrangement of a loop consisting of residues 160–169. We propose that Lys-161 functions as an ATP sensor and that 160–169 constitutes a nucleotide-sensing loop (NSL) that monitors the presence of the γ-phosphate. Functional analysis using NSL mutants shows a significant decrease in ATPase activity, suggesting that the NSL is involved in timing of the protein folding cycle.
Trichomonas vaginalis: characterization of ornithine decarboxylase

Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the lead enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis, was partially purified from Trichomonas vaginalis and its kinetic properties were studied. The enzyme appears to be of special significance in this anaerobic parasite, since the arginine dihydrolase pathway generates ATP as well as putrescine from arginine. ODC from T. vaginalis had a broad substrate specificity, decarboxylating ornithine (100%), lysine (1.0%) and arginine (0.1%). The enzyme had a pH optimum of 6.5, a temperature optimum of 37 degrees C and was pyridoxal 5'-phosphate-dependent. Attempts to separate ornithine- from lysine-decarboxylating activity by thermal-stability and pH-optima curves were not successful. Although Km values for ornithine and lysine were 109 and 91 microM respectively, and the Vmax values for these substrates were 1282 and 13 nmol/min per mg of protein respectively, the most important intracellular substrate is ornithine, since intracellular ornithine levels are 3.5 times those of lysine and extracellular putrescine levels are 7.5 times those of cadaverine. Ornithine was also an effective inhibitor of lysine-decarboxylating activity (Ki 150 microM), whereas lysine was relatively ineffective as inhibitor of ornithine-decarboxylating activity (Ki 14.5 mM). Crude ODC activity was localized (86%) in the 43,000 g supernatant and 3303-fold purification was obtained by (NH4)2SO4 salting and DEAE-Sephacel, agarose-gel and hydroxyapatite chromatography steps. The enzyme bound difluoro[3H]methylornithine ([3H]DFMO) with a ratio of drug bound to activity of 2500 fmol/unit, where 1 unit corresponds to 1 nmol of CO2 released from ornithine/min. The enzyme had a native M(r) of 210000 (gel filtration), with a subunit M(r) of 55,000 (by SDS/PAGE), suggesting that the trichomonad enzyme is a tetramer. From the subunit M(r) and binding ratio of DFMO, there is about 137 ng of ODC per mg of T. vaginalis protein (0.013%). The significant amount of ODC protein present supports the view that putrescine synthesis in T. vaginalis plays an important role in the metabolism of the parasite.
Regulation of lymphocyte apoptosis by interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF-4).

To ensure that homeostasis of the immune system is maintained, the sensitivity of lymphocytes to Fas-mediated apoptosis is differentially regulated during their activation. The molecular mechanisms that link the activation program of lymphocytes to changes in sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis have, however, not been fully characterized. In these studies, we have investigated whether Fas-mediated apoptosis can be regulated by interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF-4), a lymphoid-restricted member of the IRF family of transcription factors. IRF-4 expression is upregulated during lymphocyte activation and IRF-4–deficient mice have defects in both lymphocyte activation and homeostasis. Here, we show that stable expression of IRF-4 in a human lymphoid cell line that normally lacks IRF-4 leads to a significantly enhanced apoptotic response on Fas receptor engagement. A systematic examination of the downstream effectors of Fas signaling in IRF-4–transfected cells demonstrates an increased activation of caspase-8, as well as an increase in Fas receptor polarization. We demonstrate that IRF-4–deficient mice display defects in activation-induced cell death, as well as superantigen-induced deletion, and that these defects are accompanied by impairments in Fas receptor polarization. These data suggest that IRF-4, by modulating the efficiency of the Fas-mediated death signal, is a novel participant in the regulation of lymphoid cell apoptosis.
TSC2: filling the GAP in the mTOR signaling pathway

The tumor-suppressor proteins TSC1 and TSC2 are associated with an autosomal dominant disorder known as tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). TSC1 and TSC2 function as a heterodimer to inhibit cell growth and proliferation. Another protein, mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), is regarded as a central controller of cell growth in response to growth factors, cellular energy and nutrient levels. Recent breakthroughs in TSC research link the TSC1/2 heterodimer protein to the mTOR signaling network. It has recently been shown that TSC2 has GTPase-activating protein (GAP) activity towards the Ras family small GTPase Rheb (Ras homolog enriched in brain), and TSC1/2 antagonizes the mTOR signaling pathway via stimulation of GTP hydrolysis of Rheb. Thus, TSC1/2 and Rheb have pivotal roles in mediating growth factors, nutrient and energy sensing signals to mTOR-dependent targets. These discoveries lend new insight into TSC pathogenesis.
Convergent Evolution of Syringyl Lignin Biosynthesis via Distinct Pathways in the Lycophyte Selaginella and Flowering Plants

Phenotypic convergence in unrelated lineages arises when different organisms adapt similarly under comparable selective pressures. In an apparent example of this process, syringyl lignin, a fundamental building block of plant cell walls, occurs in two major plant lineages, lycophytes and angiosperms, which diverged from one another more than 400 million years ago. Here, we show that this convergence resulted from independent recruitment of lignin biosynthetic cytochrome P450-dependent monooxygenases that route cell wall monomers through related but distinct pathways in the two lineages. In contrast with angiosperms, in which syringyl lignin biosynthesis requires two phenylpropanoid meta-hydroxylases C3'H and F5H, the lycophyte Selaginella employs one phenylpropanoid dual meta-hydroxylase to bypass several steps of the canonical lignin biosynthetic pathway. Transgenic expression of the Selaginella hydroxylase in Arabidopsis thaliana dramatically reroutes its endogenous lignin biosynthetic pathway, yielding a novel lignin composition not previously identified in nature. Our findings demonstrate a unique case of convergent evolution via distinct biochemical strategies and suggest a new way to genetically reconstruct lignin biosynthesis in higher plants.
104 Identification of Pfiesteria Piscicida (Dinophyceae) and Pfiesteria‐Like Organisms Using its‐Specific PCR Assays

The putative harmful algal bloom dinoflagellate, Pfiesteria piscicida, frequently co-occurs with other morphologically similar species collectively known as Pfiesteria-like organisms (PLOs). This study specifically evaluated whether unique sequences in the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS1 and ITS2) could be used to develop PCR assays capable of detecting PLOs in natural assemblages. ITS regions were selected because they are more variable than the flanking small subunit (SSU) or large subunit (LSU) ribosomal RNA genes and more likely to contain species-specific sequences. Sequencing of the ITS regions revealed unique oligonucleotide primer binding sites for Pfiesteria piscicida, Pfiesteria shumwayae, Florida “Lucy” species, two cryptoperidiniopsoid species, “H/V14” and “PLO21,” and the estuarine mixotroph, Karlodinium micrum. These PCR assays had a minimum sensitivity of 100 cells in a 100 mL sample (1 cell mL-1) and were successfully used to detect PLOs in the St. Johns River system in Florida, USA.
The effect of extrudate swell on modeling the film blowing process

The extrudate swell effect has not received sufficient attention in modeling the film blowing process. This effect is addressed in this paper, and as an ab initio study, only viscous fluids were considered. The problem region was separated into two zones; the extrudate swell zone and the film blowing zone. The annular extrudate swell problem was solved using a finite element method. The film blowing process was modeled following Pearson and Petrie's (4) work. Although only viscous fluids were considered, the simulation results show a remarkable difference when swelling was included in the modeling. Viscoelastic fluids, which are more realistic for polymer melts, were not investigated here because of the so called high Weisenberg number problem. This is an open area still under investigation.
Structure-Activity Relationship of Nerve-Highlighting Fluorophores

Nerve damage is a major morbidity associated with numerous surgical interventions. Yet, nerve visualization continues to challenge even the most experienced surgeons. A nerve-specific fluorescent contrast agent, especially one with near-infrared (NIR) absorption and emission, would be of immediate benefit to patients and surgeons. Currently, there are only three classes of small molecule organic fluorophores that penetrate the blood nerve barrier and bind to nerve tissue when administered systemically. Of these three classes, the distyrylbenzenes (DSBs) are particularly attractive for further study. Although not presently in the NIR range, DSB fluorophores highlight all nerve tissue in mice, rats, and pigs after intravenous administration. The purpose of the current study was to define the pharmacophore responsible for nerve-specific uptake and retention, which would enable future molecules to be optimized for NIR optical properties. Structural analogs of the DSB class of small molecules were synthesized using combinatorial solid phase synthesis and commercially available building blocks, which yielded more than 200 unique DSB fluorophores. The nerve-specific properties of all DSB analogs were quantified using an ex vivo nerve-specific fluorescence assay on pig and human sciatic nerve. Results were used to perform quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling and to define the nerve-specific pharmacophore. All DSB analogs with positive ex vivo fluorescence were tested for in vivo nerve specificity in mice to assess the effect of biodistribution and clearance on nerve fluorescence signal. Two new DSB fluorophores with the highest nerve to muscle ratio were tested in pigs to confirm scalability.
A radial basis function method for the shallow water equations on a sphere

The paper derives the first known numerical shallow water model on the sphere using radial basis function (RBF) spatial discretization, a novel numerical methodology that does not require any grid or mesh. In order to perform a study with regard to its spatial and temporal errors, two nonlinear test cases with known analytical solutions are considered. The first is a global steady-state flow with a compactly supported velocity field, while the second is an unsteady flow where features in the flow must be kept intact without dispersion. This behaviour is achieved by introducing forcing terms in the shallow water equations. Error and time stability studies are performed, both as the number of nodes are uniformly increased and the shape parameter of the RBF is varied, especially in the flat basis function limit. Results show that the RBF method is spectral, giving exceptionally high accuracy for low number of basis functions while being able to take unusually large time steps. In order to put it in the context of other commonly used global spectral methods on a sphere, comparisons are given with respect to spherical harmonics, double Fourier series and spectral element methods.
Implementation of a "second victim" program in a pediatric hospital.

Purpose A formal support program for pharmacy employees involved in adverse drug events, patient-related injuries, and other traumatic work experiences is described. Summary Healthcare workers are sometimes referred to as the “second victims” of patient care mishaps due to the anxiety, loss of confidence, and career uncertainty they may experience. After a survey indicating that about 30% of its staff had been involved in a second-victim event, the Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) pharmacy department implemented a peer-based support initiative (the YOU Matter program) based on an established three-tiered intervention model. All staff members are trained to identify second victims. The core of the program is a team of trained peer supporters who serve as first responders; if additional support is required, referrals to behavioral health, social work, and employee assistance personnel are made as appropriate. Staff members involved in troubling work-related events can seek support via a Web-based portal for event reporting and discussion. Since the launch of the NCH second victim program, the team of trained peer supporters has been expanded from 13 to over 120. In a postimplementation survey, 85% of the NCH pharmacy department staff indicated that the YOU Matter program has been beneficial. Conclusion The majority of the NCH pharmacy staff reported that the department benefited from implementation of the second victim program. A survey conducted five months after implementation of the program revealed that 3 respondents had personally used the program and 11 had referred a coworker to a peer supporter.
Hepatic Glucokinase in the Fed, Fasted, and Alloxan-Diabetic Rat

SUMMARY A liver extract from which glucose 6-phosphatase activity has been removed by ultracentrifugation has been used as a source of enzyme for assay of hepatic glucokinase activity. The method involves the coupling of glucokinase with an exogenous source of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and measurement of TPN+ reduction in the Beckman spectrophotometer at 340 rnp. The specific activity of this soluble glucokinase is sufficiently high to account for previous estimates of glucose phosphorylation in liver slices and for the high rate of glycogen synthesis in the in- tact rat. Fasting or alloxan diabetes caused a lowering of he- patic glucokinase activity on a per g liver basis to about 400/, of the value for normal, fed rats. REFERENCES 1. RENOLD, A. E., HASTINGS, A. B., NESBETT, F. B., AND ASH- MORE, J., J. Biol. Chem., 213, 135 (1955). 2. CAHILL, G. F., JR., ASHMORE, J., RENOLD, A. E.,
Temperature dependence of rate constants for the reaction of atomic oxygen with hydrogen chloride

A phase-shift method has been used to determine the rate constant for the reaction of ground state oxygen atoms with HCl over the temperature range of 330–600 K. Oxygen atoms were generated by modulated mercury photosensitized decomposition of N2O, and monitored by the chemiluminescence from their reaction with NO. After correction for diffusion of oxygen atoms from the viewing zone, the rate constants can be represented by the Arrhenius equation k1 = (3.06 ± 1.43) × 1012 exp[(−3160 ± 184)/T] cm3/mol·s. The indicated uncertainties are 95% confidence limits for 15 degrees of freedom. Also, the third-body efficiency of HCl relative to N2O in the reaction O + NO + M NO2 + M was determined to be 1.9 ± 0.2 over the temperature range of 298–360 K.
A systems-based approach for detecting molecular interactions across tissues

Current high-throughput gene expression experiments have a straightforward design of examining the gene expression of one group or condition relative to that of another. The data is typically analyzed as if they represent strictly intracellular events, and often treats genes as coming from a homogeneous population. Although intracellular events are crucial to nearly all biological processes, cell-cell interactions are often just as important, especially when gene expression data is generated from heterogeneous cell populations, such as from whole tissues. Cell-cell molecular interactions are generally lost in the available analytical procedures and as a result, are not examined experimentally, at least not accurately or with efficiency. Most importantly, this imposes major limitations when studying gene expression changes in multiple samples that interact with one another. In order to addresses the limitations of current techniques, we have developed a novel systems-based approach that expands the traditional analysis of gene expression in two stages. This includes a novel sequence-based meta-analytic tool, AbsIDconvert, that allows for conversion of annotated features using an interval tree for storing and querying absolute genomic coordinates for comparison of multi-scale macro-molecule identifiers across platforms and/or organisms. In addition, a systems-based heuristic algorithm is developed to find intercellular interactions between two sets of genes, potentially from different tissues by utilizing location information of each gene along with the information available in the secondary databases in the form of interactions, pathways and signaling. AbsIDconvert is shown to provide a high accuracy in identifier conversion as compared to other available methodologies (typically at an average rate of 84%) while maintaining a higher efficiency (O(n ∗ log(n)). Our intercellular interaction approach and underlying visualization shows promise in allowing researchers to uncover novel signaling pathways in an intercellular fashion that to this point has not been possible.
Prairie Dog Empire, A Saga of the Shortgrass Prairie.

P. A. Johnsgard 2005. Prairie Dog Empire, a Saga of the Shortgrass Prairie. University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln, Nebraska, xiii + 243 pp. ISBN 0-8032-22604-7, price(hardbound), $29.95. This is by no means a book about prairie dogs. It is much more. Prairie Dog Empire is the Great Plains. The black-tailed prairie dog is a continuing motif throughout the narrative, but this is a general natural history of the “Big Empty,” and an excellent one: a thorough, thoroughly readable, semitechnical synthesis, accessible to the interested layperson. Still, a specialist on prairie dogs or grassland ecology might read the book with interest, because it paints the “big picture,” with prairie dogs at center stage. Prairie dogs are a North American “original,” and this book kindles a deep appreciation for the Great Plains organized around one of its most abused denizens. Johnsgard compiles scholarly research across a wide range of disciplines, and lively, compelling prose produces a review that could make a difference with conservationists and policy-makers. In keeping with the intended audience, text …
Abstract MP84: Use of Lifestyle Strategies Following Intervention and Impact on Longer-term Weight Loss Success

Background: Behavioral weight loss interventions are successful in producing weight loss; however, weight regain following cessation of intervention is common. Little is known about use of lifestyle strategies following interventions, differences in use by sex, and how use of strategies relates to longer-term weight trajectories. Methods: This analysis includes participants in the Slow the Adverse Vascular Effects of excess weight (SAVE) study with 24 month follow-up data. SAVE included 349 men and women aged 20-45 years with body mass index 25-39.9kg/m2. The SAVE weight loss intervention lasted for 18 months, with sessions decreasing in frequency over time. At 24 months, participants completed a survey about lifestyle strategies used in the past six months, including self-monitoring, group support, behavioral skills, and professional support. Chi-square and Fischer exact tests were used to compare frequency of strategies by sex. T tests were used to compare percent change in weight between baseline and 2...
Facilitating Active Learning of the Concepts in Transport Phenomena: Experiment with a Subliming Solid

An experiment based on the sublimation of a solid was introduced in the undergraduate Transport Phenomena course. The experiment required the students to devise their own apparatus and measurement techniques. The theoretical basis, assignment of the experiment, experimental results, and student/instructor observations are described in this paper. Student response indicated that this simple experiment was of immense value in enhancing student comprehension of the complex concepts of transport phenomena. The creativity and independence required of the students facilitated their involvement in the learning process. This experiment and the future modifications described in this paper will be of value to both the students and the instructors of Transport Phenomena.
Using speculation to meet evidence: Reply to alba and messner

This paper answers Alba's and Messner's criticisms of the author's conclusions regarding the impact of gun control and widespread citizen gun ownership. Alba and Messner argue that Kleck interprets data to support the value of gun ownership in controlling crime in society and the futility of using gun-control legislation to reduce the rate and impact of violent crime. The data, they claim, is subject to other interpretations than those given it by Kleck. Kleck, on the other hand, argues that his methods for interpreting the data are scientifically stronger than Alba's and Messner's, who consider it "legitimate to answer evidence with speculation." Overall, Kleck rejects all of Alba's and Messner's criticisms of his findings in "Point Blank" and reaffirms his conclusions regarding general levels of gun ownership and rates of criminal violence, offender gun use and the lethality of incidents, defensive gun use and the deterrent effects of gun ownership, and the ineffectiveness of gun-control laws. NCJRS abstract 160786
Rocket propulsion education at the United States Air Force Academy

The mission of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is to develop and inspire air and space leaders with vision for tomorrow. The goal of the Astronautics Department is to participate in this development with a view towards space applications. A key requirement, therefore, is an understanding of rocket propulsion issues. To this end, the Astronautics Department at USAFA has developed a course textbook (Space Propulsion Analysis and Design), has two courses directly related to rocket system design and development, and has two "research" courses that can be applied to rocket problems. All of these courses are related and compliment each other. This paper describes these courses. Space Propulsion Analysis and Design Prior to 1992 we had been struggling with the problem that there was not a text on rocket propulsion that was really adequate for our program. The requirements for an appropriate text were: • simple language and presentation • cover the basics of rocket propulsion • discuss some basic astrodynamics & launch • discuss thermodynamics & thermochemistry • cover vehicle sizing • cover each of the important technologies • discuss the "design process" • give sufficient data to support a design The resulting textbook: Space Propulsion Analysis and Design . (SPAD) published by 1 This paper is declared a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. McGraw-Hill, was finally completed in October 1995. It contains 748 pages which make up 11 chapters and 3 appendices. Various sections of the book are written by different authors to provide a broad base of expertise in the different technologies. A reproduction of the Table of
The influence of wind and river pulses on an estuarine turbidity maximum: Numerical studies and field observations in Chesapeake Bay

The effect of pulsed events on estuarine turbidity maxima (ETM) was investigated with the Princeton Ocean Model, a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model. The theoretical model was adapted to a straight-channel estuary and enhanced with sediment transport, erosion, deposition, and burial components. Wind and river pulse scenarios from the numerical model were compared to field observations before and after river pulse and wind events in upper Chesapeake Bay. Numerical studies and field observations demonstrated that the salt front and ETM had rapid and nonlinear responses to short-term pulses in river flow and wind. Although increases and decreases in river flow caused down-estuary and up-estuary (respectively) movements of the salt front, the effect of increased river flow was more pronounced than that of decreased river flow. Along-channel wind events also elicited non-linear responses. The salt front moved in the opposite direction of wind stress, shifting up-estuary in response to down-estuary winds and vice-versa. Modeled pulsed events affected suspended sediment distributions by modifying the location of the salt front, near-bottom shear stress, and the location of bottom sediment in relation to stratification within the salt front. Bottom sediment accumulated near the convergent zone at the tip of the salt front, but lagged behind the rapid response of the salt front during wind events. While increases in river flow and along-channel winds resulted in sediment transport down-estuary, only reductions in river flow resulted in consistent up-estuary movement of bottom sediment. Model predictions suggest that wind and river pulse events significantly influence salt front structure and circulation patterns, and have an important role in the transport of sediment in upper estuaries.
”Phase crystallization” and photonic sound waves in active photonic lattices

A generic model is derived for the lattice dynamic of coupled microlaser arrays, including near neighbor interactions, both passive (cross-cavity dielectric and mirror interference) and active (cross-cavity stimulated gain). The interaction phase among sites exhibits spontaneous long range ”crystallization” into periodic Bloch states of laser ”macro-atoms”. Collective lattice oscillations, evanescent wave dispersion and self-excitation of ”photonic sound” waves are observed and studied.
Venezuelan Macronyssidae. 3. Chiroecetes lonchophylla, n. g., n. sp., from a long-tongued bat.

A new genus and species of macronyssid mite from the Panama long-tongued bat, Lonchophylla robusta Miller, is described from a single female specimen. The new genus, Chiroecetes , is diagnosed and the new species, C. lonchophylla , is described and illustrated. The relationship between this new genus and species and related macronyssid mites is discussed.
Self-Mode-Locked Semiconductor Disk Lasers via Negative Ultrafast Kerr Effect

Self-mode-locking in diode-pumped InGaAs semiconductor disk lasers (λ=1030 nm) is demonstrated with sub-500 fs pulses at 1 GHz. The mechanism is attributed to negative ultrafast Kerr lensing in the multiple quantum well gain structure.
Fecundity, Sex Ratios, and Egg Distribution by Microplitis croceipes, a Parasite of Heliothis

Microplitis croceipes (Cresson) exhibited facultative (arrhenotokous) parthenogenesis. Unmated females produced all male offspring, while mated females produced both sexes at varying ratios but generally at a 1:1 ratio. Females of various ages mated successfully. The lifespan of the females ranged from 5 to 15 days at about 26°C. Their average oviposition capacity was about 300, and they demonstrated no ability to discriminate larvae which had been parasitized previously.
Approximating Nash Equilibrium Via Multilinear Minimax

Nash equilibrium} (NE) can be stated as a formal theorem on a multilinear form, free of game theory terminology. On the other hand, inspired by this formalism, we state and prove a {\it multilinear minimax theorem}, a generalization of von Neumann's bilinear minimax theorem. As in the bilinear case, the proof is based on relating the underlying optimizations to a primal-dual pair of linear programming problems, albeit more complicated LPs. The theorem together with its proof is of independent interest. Next, we use the theorem to associate to a multilinear form in NE a {\it multilinear minimax relaxation} (MMR), where the primal-dual pair of solutions induce an approximate equilibrium point that provides a nontrivial upper bound on a convex combination of {\it expected payoffs} in any NE solution. In fact we show any positive probability vector associated to the players induces a corresponding {\it diagonally-scaled} MMR approximate equilibrium with its associated upper bound. By virtue of the proof of the multilinear minimax theorem, MMR solution can be computed in polynomial-time. On the other hand, it is known that even in bimatrix games NE is {\it PPAD-complete}, a complexity class in NP not known to be in P. The quality of MMR solution and the efficiency of solving the underlying LPs are the subject of further investigation. However, as shown in a separate article, for a large set of test problems in bimatrix games, not only the MMR payoffs for both players are better than any NE payoffs, so is the computing time of MMR in contrast with that of Lemke-Howsen algorithm. In large size problems the latter algorithm even fails to produce a Nash equilibrium. In summary, solving MMR provides a worthy approximation even if Nash equilibrium is shown to be computable in polynomial-time.
Double-Sided Energy Auction in Microgrid: Equilibrium Under Price Anticipation

This paper investigates the problem of proportionally fair double-sided energy auction involving buying and selling agents. The grid is assumed to be operating under islanded mode. A distributed auction algorithm that can be implemented by an aggregator, as well as a possible approach by which the agents may approximate price anticipation is considered. Equilibrium conditions arising due to price anticipation is analyzed. A modified auction to mitigate the resulting loss in efficiency due to such behavior is suggested. This modified auction allows the aggregate social welfare of the agents to be arbitrarily close to that attainable with price taking agents. Next, equilibrium conditions when the aggregator collects a surcharge price per unit of energy traded is examined. A bi-objective optimization problem is identified that takes into account both the agents’ social welfare as well as the aggregator’s revenue from the surcharge. The results of extensive simulations, which corroborate the theoretical analysis, are reported.
Site and extent of neutral detergent fiber digestion, efficiency of ruminal digesta flux and fecal output as related to variations in voluntary intake and chewing behavior in heifers.

Six heifers (1/4 Brahman x 1/4 Jersey x 1/2 Angus, 290 kg avg wt) with ruminal, duodenal and ileal cannulas were given ad libitum access to a corn silage-based diet with or without 100 mg monensin.hd-1.d-1 in a two-period crossover design. There was no significant effect of monensin on voluntary intake (VI), flow of NDF to the abomasum, fecal output or the efficiency of transfer of NDF to the duodenum (unitary fluxes of NDF through the reticulo-omasal orifice, number.g NDF.(kg BW.75)-1). Monensin increased extent of NDF digestion (NDFD) in the dorsal (P = .07) and ventral (P = .09) ruminal sac. As a fraction of the total tract NDFD, NDFD increased progressively in dorsal rumen (.214), ventral rumen (.548) and duodenal (.818) sites. The VI among individual heifers was negatively related to unitary fluxes of NDF through the reticulo-omasal orifice (P = .001) and to the extent of digestion of potentially digestible NDF (PDNDFD) in the ventral rumen (P = .006) and duodenum (P = .032), but not in the dorsal rumen (P = .720) or in the total tract (P = .785). Fecal output of NDF was negatively related to unitary times of eating (P = .027), ruminating (P = .001), masticating (P = .001) and unitary number of rumination boli (P = .001). These relationships all were influenced (P = .001) by individual heifer.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Abstract WMP30: Quantitative Aneurysm Flow Evaluation of Combined FD and Coil Treatment Shows Higher Flow Reduction During the Healing Process Based on 2D DSA Images

Purpose: This pilot study demonstrates an approach to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of flow diverter (FD) stents and coil treatments based on follow-up images. Method: 2D digital subtra...
Neutron-Induced Fission Cross Section of Am 2 4 2 m

The neutron-induced fission cross section of ${\mathrm{Am}}^{242m}$ has been measured from 0.02 eV to 6 MeV by the time-of-flight method at the Livermore 30-MeV linear electron accelerator. The data are normalized at 0.0253 eV to a value of 6600 b measured in a reactor thermal-neutron flux. The cross section at 0.2 eV is 4700 b; at 1 eV it is 540 b; and at 4 MeV it is 2.1 b. The data are analyzed to obtain values for the neutron strength function $〈\frac{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{{n}^{0}}}{D}〉$ of 1.4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$, the level spacing $D=1.2$ eV, and the quantity $2\ensuremath{\pi}〈\frac{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{f}}{D}〉=2.5$. All three quantities are quoted per spin state. The high cross section at low energies can be attributed to the unusually high value for $2\ensuremath{\pi}〈\frac{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{f}}{D}〉$, and to the existence of a very large resonance at 0.173 eV. The fission cross section of ${\mathrm{Am}}^{241}$ also was measured in the MeV region and found to be 1.96\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2 b at 2.5 MeV.
When are clinical trials beneficial for study patients and future patients? A factorial vignette-based survey of institutional review board members.

Objective The ethicists believe that the goal of clinical research is to benefit future and not current (trial) patients. Many clinicians believe that the clinical trial enrolment offers best management for their patients. The objective of our study was to identify the situations when a clinical trial is beneficial for the patients enrolled in the trial and future patients. Design Factorial vignette-based cross-sectional survey via the internet. Participants Institutional review board (IRB) members of the US Medical Schools. Main outcome measures Each participant was invited to review 9 clinical vignettes related to (1) study approval and (2) the assessment if the study is designed to help future or current patients more. Results A total of 232 IRB members from 42 institutions participated. When considering approval of the trial, we found that uncertainty about treatment effects (OR=1.13; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.19) and requirement for continuation of standard therapy (OR=3.84; 95% CI 2.7 to 5.55) were the only statistically significant factors affecting IRB members9 decisions to approve the study. The odds of IRB members approving a trial increased when a trial proposed to enrol patients with life-threatening versus chronic debilitating disease (OR=2.04; 95% CI 1.47 to 2.86). We also found that similar factors affected judgements related to the assessment whether the trial will benefit future or current patients more—(1) future patients: uncertainty (OR=1.27; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.37); continuation of standard treatment (OR=1.66; 95% CI 1.07 to 2.56); seriousness of condition (OR=1.78; 95% CI 1.15 to 2.28); (2) current patients: uncertainty (OR=1.54; 95% CI 1.4 to 1.7); continuation of standard therapy (OR=2.17; 95% CI 1.39 to 3.44). Conclusions IRB members view the proposed studies to be beneficial for current patients and future patients if there is uncertainty regarding treatment effects and if studies do not require stopping the current treatment. This finding supports the design and use of pragmatic trials which may reduce therapeutic misconception and improve trial enrolment, speeding up therapeutic discoveries.
Fulminant ecchymosis as the initial manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) triggered by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection: A case report and review of the literature

We present a unique and informative instance of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), and discuss this case in the context of the literature addressing the immunopathogenesis of APS associated with diverse infections. We describe the case of a 43-year-old man with no significant past medical history who presented with the acute onset of fever, hemoptysis, and extensive bullous, ecchymotic lesions in both lower extremities. Punch biopsy of the lesion demonstrated thrombotic vasculopathy. Further evaluation revealed serum antiphospholipid antibodies as well as a positive RSV PCR in a nasal swab specimen. Clinical manifestations, positive laboratory and pathological findings were strongly suggestive of APS associated with a recent RSV infection. When an infectious etiology is considered for APS, RSV should also be included in the differential diagnosis.
Designing the Buyer–Supplier Contract for Risk Management: Assessing Complexity and Mission Criticality

In this study, we argue that contract design is a predominant strategy to set contractual expectations among supply chain partners to manage risk. We draw upon resource dependence theory and transaction cost economics to suggest that variation in risk management strategies is dependent upon both the complexity of the procured product or service and the extent to which it is mission critical. In this preliminary study of public-sector supply chains, we find evidence based on an analysis of over 240,000 buyer–supplier contracts that when both mission criticality and service complexity are low, suppliers tend to bear most of the disruption risk by agreeing to fixed-price contracts. When mission criticality is high, we find that the federal government is more likely to share risk with suppliers by utilizing incentive contracts. Evidence suggests that cost-reimbursement and incentive contracts are preferred when service complexity is high.
Public stealth and boundary objects: Coping with integrated water resource management and the post-political condition in Montana’s portion of the Yellowstone River watershed

Abstract This paper uses the case of recent efforts in the Yellowstone River watershed to illuminate how the implementation of Integrated Water Resources (IWRM)-styled activities by a Montana state agency is best understood as an exercise in practical expediency that indirectly, but consequentially, supports hegemonic neo-liberalism. We present an innovative use of Q method, focus groups, and participant observations, as means to examine how scale-based interventions by the state moved IWRM-style reforms forward. The activities under consideration allow us to advance an empirically-based critique of so-called integrated approaches to environmental reform with a specific focus on the rescaling process inherent to adoption of the IWRM model. We argue that efforts to transition to IWRM-style governance are likely to be accompanied by stealthy, scale-based interventions. We use the concepts of “standardized packages” and “boundary objects” to raise questions about the degree to which use of such tactics should be interpreted as evidence of a broader hegemonic project to further imbricate neoliberal governmentality, as the literature on post-politics would suggest, or whether eco-scaling and careful circumscription of participation are simply the most convenient strategies for those charged with difficult and complex tasks.