cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adult Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) at Maintenance Are More Sensitive to Diets Containing Excess Vitamin A Than to Vitamin A–Deficient Diets

The purpose of this experiment was to examine the physiological responses of adult cockatiels at maintenance to dietary vitamin A (VA) concentrations, and to identify concentrations associated with deficiency and toxicity. Adult cockatiels at maintenance (n = 22, 2-3 y of age) were fed a diet of 0, 600, 3000 or 30,000 microg VA/kg (0, 2000, 10,000 or 100,000 IU), and monitored for signs of VA deficiency or toxicity for up to 706 d. The analyzed diet concentrations were 0, 835, 2815 and 24,549 microg/kg, respectively. After 269 d, birds fed the 30,000 microg/kg VA diet had greater plasma retinal concentrations, markedly intensified vocalization patterns, pancreatitis and multifocal accumulation of lymphocytes in the lamina propria of the duodenum compared to birds fed the 600 microg/kg diet (P or = 3000 microg VA/kg diet can cause toxicity. It is possible that disturbances in VA nutrition contribute to the widespread incidence of behavioral problems reported in companion birds.
Assessing the Reliability of Statistical Software: Part I

Abstract Entry-level tests of the accuracy of statistical software, such as Wilkinson's Statistics Quiz, have long been available, but more advanced collections of tests have not. This article proposes a set of intermediate-level tests focusing on three areas: estimation, both linear and nonlinear; random number generation; and statistical distributions (e.g., for calculating p-values). The complete methodology is described in detail. Convenient methods for summarizing the results are presented, so that an assessment of numerical accuracy can easily be incorporated into a software review.
Economic linkages driving the potential response to nitrogen over-enrichment

Most public decisions ultimately have economic content. Decisions that deal with externalities, such as pollution, carry costs as well as benefits for society. Actions that mitigate nutrient over-enrichment in the Gulf of Mexico would require actions throughout the Mississippi River Basin resulting in both direct and indirect economic impacts. This paper describes and explains the economic linkages and trade-offs involved in actions that could be cost effective and meet a public goal of reducing nitrogen over-enrichment within the Mississippi River Basin. The impacts of different approaches that reduce the major source of nitrogen flows to the Gulf, nonpoint pollution from agriculture, are simulated for both source reduction the major source of nitrogen flows to the Gulf, nonpoint pollution from agriculture, are simulated for both source reduction and interception of nitrogen. Lessons learned include the fact that any one approach by itself has increasing marginal cost. The approaches considered have modest direct and indirect costs when only required to mitigate 20% to 25% of the nitrogen losses. Simultaneous multiple approaches appear even more attractive to induce only moderate negative impact. The impacts of mitigation are not just confined to the Mississippi River Basin but spread beyond the basin and are themselves influenced by external factors such as commodity prices and import and export markets for agricultural commodities. Success in reducing excess nitrogen flows will depend on institutional factors as well as technical efficacy. Finally, the nature of soil system sinks and the resulting long lead time likely before results might be apparent present a special obstacle to enlisting cooperation, assessing efficacy, and designing adaptive behavior.
Dimensional reduction and quantum-to-classical reduction at high temperatures.

We discuss the relation between dimensional reduction in quantum field theories at finite temperature and a familiar quantum-mechanical phenomenon that quantum effects become negligible at high temperatures. Fermi and Bose fields are compared in this respect. We show that decoupling of fermions from the dimensionally reduced theory can be related to the nonexistence of classical statistics for a Fermi field.
Group profiles of women as tourists and purchasers of souvenirs.

This study describes women tourists andforms group profiles of them. The42 women represented early adulthood (ages 17–42) and middle adulthood (ages 43–65) and werefrequent travelers who purchased many souvenirs. Qualitative analysis yieldedfive group profiles of women tourists based on the emergent themes of trip-planning and souvenir-purchasing styles: (a) goalattainment travelers preplanned their trips and made both planned and unplanned purchases; (b) low-involvement travelers made minimal trip plans, unplanned purchases, and thefewest purchases; (c) eclectic travelers used combination planningfor trips, made both unplanned and planned purchases, and made the most purchases; (d) centrist travelers made preplanned trips but unplanned purchases; and (e) laid-back travelers were minimal trip planners who made unplanned, planned, or both unplanned and planned purchases. Each profile represents a target market with its own planning and purchasing styles. Souvenir marketers could design advertising themes and new productsfor each profile.
Microparticle detachment from surfaces exposed to turbulent air flow: controlled experiments and modeling

Abstract This work presents the results of experiments conducted to characterize the detachment of microparticles from surfaces exposed to turbulent air during accelerated free-stream flow. Smooth glass plates used as substrates are scanned with an atomic force microscope to determine their roughness-height distributions. Microparticles of different sizes, materials and shapes (mostly microspheres) are deposited as sparse monolayers onto the substrates under controlled clean and dry conditions. The microparticles attach to the substrate in a condition of static equilibrium due to adhesion and reside completely within the viscous sublayer as the flow is accelerated. Microvideographic observations of individual microparticle detachment show that detachment occurs primarily as rolling motion along the surface and not as lift-off. Detachment is not necessarily followed by entrainment in the flow. Results are presented as detachment fractions as function of time. The experimental results reveal that detachment is governed by a balance of the moments of aerodynamic drag and rough-surface pull-off forces. This is substantiated using a recently developed attachment theory that takes into account surface roughness to determine the pull-off force of microparticles. The sensitivity of the free-stream threshold velocity for detachment to five factors contained in the experiments and the model is analyzed. Results indicate that the surface energy of adhesion and the microsphere radius have the most influence on the threshold velocity for detachment.
The multipolar content of the human electrocardiogram.

The previously limited dipole or vector concept in electrocardiography may now be extended to the multipole concept, and the extraction of otherwise lost surface reflections of myocardial electrical activity may now be obtained. The geometric form and orientation for each of the 15 components of a three-stage multipole located at the heart's center have been characterized. This permitted determination of the patterns of potential distribution on the chest resulting from the activation of each of the respective components. The 15 leads have been employed to determine dipolar-quadripolar-octapolar moment of instantaneous body surface potentials, first calculated from a 20-dipole model of ventricular depolarization and, second, actually recorded from normal human subjects. The new information in the quadripolar and octapolar leads appears related both to the anatomic displacement of the mean heart vector and to the estimate of opposed simultaneous electrical forces in the myocardium which ordinarily average or “cancel out” in conventional electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic leads and thus go unreported. Octapolar strength was found to be greatest in mid-QRS in normal subjects but less than quadripolar in early and late QRS. The quadripolar strength remained approximately one-half that of the dipole or heart vector throughout the heart cycle.
Gravitational instability in two-phase disks and the origin of the moon

Two-phase disks may be gravitationally unstable at temperatures or surface densities at which a disk composed of either single phase would be highly stable. It is argued that two-phase disks can achieve a marginally unstable state (in addition to a highly unstable state that leads to fragmentation), limited by the ability of the photosphere to radiate the energy dissipated in the disk. A self-consistent prescription for the viscosity induced by the slow instabilities is provided. Two-phase disks are more centrally condensed than single-phase disks, and their secular cooling time may be comparable to their spreading time. A circumterrestrial disk of sufficient mass to form the moon provides a detailed example of all the preceding points. Its stability, structure, and dynamical evolution are investigated, and it is concluded that its spreading time is short (about ~100 yr); the moon is formed molten, or partially molten; the moon's initial orbit lies in the earth's equatorial plane; and only a small fraction of the disk mass is lost in a wind, although this may represent a substantial fraction of volatiles. Most of these conclusions are independent of how the disk was formed, e.g., from a giant impact.
E-procurement and human moments, and its impact on smaller industrial distributors

The emergence of web-enabled customers in industrial distribution is particularly a major force with smaller distributors, causing management to rethink their overall business strategy in more price sensitive marketplace. An empirical study was preformed using multiple linear regression and data-reduction analyses to test these trends among age, experience, product selection, destruction of face-to-face interactions, and technological sophistication. There was significant evidence to support the adoption of e-procurement applications with smaller industrial distributors, especially in the current highly competitive and economically challenging environments. Although a low-cost strategy is not considered a sustainable approach, since premium pricing strategies among retaining existing customers usually nets greater profit margins, the low-cost approach is being rapidly forced upon them, with adopting e-procurement technologies as the potential solution.
Harmonic analysis of several complex variables: A survey

Abstract We treat basic issues of harmonic analysis in several complex variables. This includes the study of Hardy spaces, singular integrals, reproducing kernels, partial differential equations, and Fourier analysis. Along the way we indicate several new results in different aspects of the subject.
Objective Assessment of Training Surgical Skills Using Simulated Tissue Interface with Real-Time Feedback

Objective We have shown previously that achieving competent performance of basic laparoscopic skills is possible in difficult conditions. We hypothesize that real-time performance feedback adds to the quality of proficiency-based simulator training for performance and forces applied to conventional surgical tools while tying square knots and running suture throws. Design A silk suture was preplaced on a simulated skin pad to assess incision closure by tying square knots and in separate trials to evaluate closure with the task of placing a running suture. The order of task performance was assigned randomly, and each task was repeated 5 times before switching to the second task. In all, 10 repetitions per task were performed by each student. After completion of the second surgical task, the cycle was repeated to test adaptation and retention of motor-skill capabilities. Half the participants were provided with a graphic display in dial format to indicate applied force. Setting Bench-top setup of apparatus was performed in a laboratory at Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Surgery. Participants Twelve second-year medical students with no surgical skills background participated in the study. Results Results from the knot-tying task indicated that the average force exerted on tissue forceps by the left hand in the blinded group who performed simple knots actually increased over repeated trials, as opposed to what was achieved by the group that had real-time feedback of their forces being applied. For the running suture, the task average force exerted on surgical tools by both hands was greater in the blind group relative to those viewing real-time graphic feedbacks of forces generated over repeated trials. Conclusion Inclusion of real-time objective assessment in evaluation of surgical skills minimizes subjective evaluation of performance capabilities. A direct correlation between real-time feedback regarding force exerted and extent of surgical task completion was noted.
Stability of a Pickup Ion Ring-beam Population in the Outer Heliosheath: Implications for the IBEX Ribbon

First results from NASA's Interplanetary Boundary Explorer mission showed an unexpected "ribbon" of enhanced energetic neutral atom (ENA) flux spanning most of the sky. One explanation put forward suggests that the ribbon may be produced by secondary ENAs originating from pickup ions (PUIs) in the outer heliosheath (OHS). These PUIs are generated when primary ENAs born in the solar wind and inner heliosheath cross the heliopause and charge exchange in the nearby interstellar medium. One of the core assumptions underpinning this theory is that the newly born PUI ring is relatively stable with respect to wave generation, so that it can undergo charge exchange before becoming isotropized. We test this assumption using a linear kinetic theory and hybrid simulations of a low-density PUI ring interacting with instability-generated waves in a warm plasma of the OHS. It is shown that a broadband spectrum of waves is excited as a result of the cyclotron instability that efficiently scatters the ring ions. We also show that the ambient fluctuations in the OHS are unlikely to produce a measurable degree of resonant scattering of PUIs because their intensity is too low compared with the waves excited by the instability.
Why Poets Just Don't Get It in the Physics Classroom: Stalking the Second Tier in the Sciences.

Sheila Tobias, the Journal's featured speaker at the 1993 NACADA National Conference on Academic Advising, addresses here the topic of her keynote presentation in Detroit. In her investigations into student attrition in the sciences, Tobias has identified fundamental differences in the way students in the physical sciences are taught, and consequently expected to learn, and the way students in, say, the humanities or the social sciences are. Here she sketches the broad outlines of her findings and the evidence upon which they rest, with provocative implications and possibilities for academic advisors.
Growth of GaNAs alloys on the N-rich side with high As content by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy

Abstract Wurzite or hexagonal GaNAs epitaxial alloy samples on the N-rich side with high As content were grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy. The GaNAs layers had specular surfaces and the single-phase epitaxial nature of the alloy samples was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The As incorporation into the GaNAs layers increased through both a decrease in the growth temperature and V/III ratio. These observed trends were similar to that found in other III–V alloy systems which exhibit a large miscibility gap. The anion incorporation was limited kinetically under the conditions of the low V/III ratio. By achieving high As content within the miscibility gap through these techniques, the GaNAs alloy system becomes a promising candidate for extending the wavelength range of GaN-based semiconductors.
Successful industrial advertising campaigns

Abstract This study investigated the correlation of seven hypothesized factors to outcomes of industrial advertising campaigns. It is based on a survey of advertising agency executives and advertising executives of corporations. The results indicate that the correlates of successful industrial advertising campaigns vary according to the intended objectives of a campaign: awareness, attitude, and sales.
Naval Task Force interface for Coalition Networks for Secure Information Sharing (CoNSIS)

Merging IP routing and mobile communication poses many challenges especially for a dynamic, heterogeneous networking environment such as a Naval Task Force. In this paper, we present an effort to design, develop, test and demonstrate an interoperable coalition interface for a Naval Task Force for the four-nation Coalition Networks for Secure Information Sharing (CoNSIS) project. A field experimentation has been performed between the four CoNSIS nations with the separate national sites being connected via the Internet. The key architectural objective of the United States (US) is to support tactical coalition networks of the other nations. The routing architecture is based on Open Shortest Path First Version 3 (OSPFv3) in conjunction with two main features, namely (1) IPv6 address auto configuration enabled on mobile links to alleviate administrative burden, and (2) Address Family (AF) support to allow IPv4 traffic to be passed via IPv6 backbone. In addition, Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) with Flow Credit and Link Metric extensions is used to provide mobile networks via point-to-multipoint links with support for Quality of Service (QoS). Furthermore, link encryptors secure the network, which make use of Dynamic Discovery mechanisms to determine remote routing endpoints.
Computer graphics curricula in the visual arts

Abstract Computers have recently emerged as commonplace on the scene in a record number of university art departments. This rapid change has created the need for new curriculum in the computer art discipline. In designing these courses I see three ideas that are paramount to any computer graphics curriculum in the visual arts. First, the courses and course work should focus on individual expression and creativity, second, the instruction should include an awareness of the “wow” factor, and third, the courses should include a balance of computer art, traditional art, computer science, and academics such as theory, art history, and criticism.
Resection of glial scar following spinal cord injury

While many studies have focused on modulating the immune response and enhancing axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI), there is limited work being performed on evaluating the role of glial scar in SCI. We sought to evaluate the effects of glial scar resection in contusion models and dorsal hemisection models of SCI. At 1-week postinjury, 2 mm of glial scar was excised from specimens in one of the two groups from each injury model. Functional outcome was measured weekly using the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) Locomotor Rating Scale along with histologic evaluation of spinal cord tracts to determine axonal regeneration. Within the dorsal hemisection model, there was no significant difference in recovery for animals that underwent glial scar excision versus animals that did not have scar excision (p = 0.61). Animals subjected to the contusion model, however, demonstrated lower BBB scores in the glial resection group during the earlier postoperative periods ( 0.05 for differences among the three groups). While glial scar may serve to stabilize the preserved axonal tracts and thereby permit modest recovery in a contusion model of SCI, it may be of less importance with a dorsal hemisection model. These experiments highlight that basic biologic processes following SCI may vary tremendously based on the injury mechanism and that the role of glial scar in spinal cord regeneration must be elucidated.
Performance metrics for evaluating liquefied natural gas, vapor dispersion models

Abstract New performance metrics are necessary to quantify the inherent margins of safety 1 in vapor dispersion models for liquefied natural gas (LNG) spills. Currently, vapor dispersion model calculations in the 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 193 as well as Standard 59A of the National Fire Protection Association (2001 edition) reduce the lower flammability limit (LFL) of methane in air by a safety factor of two (to 50% LFL) to ensure that flammable vapors do not extend beyond an LNG facility’s property line during an LNG spill. Yet, neither document explicitly states the additional distance or the additional confidence level this existing safety standard creates to separate the public from LNG vapors at 100 percent LFL within the facility vs. 50 percent LFL at the facility property line. Although researchers have successfully validated how vapor dispersion models calculate conservative buffer (exclusion) zones, their collective work did not readily explain to the general public the inherent margins of safety in these models. Havens and Spicer developed correlations to demonstrate how well DEGADIS 2 predictions compared with field testing measurements in the late 80s ( Havens & Spicer, 1985 ). Their research also confirmed that peak gas concentrations exceeded time averaged measurements during some field trials as well as DEGADIS predictions. Then Hanna, Chang, and Strimaitis (1993) explained how several vapor dispersion models could be compared by calculating geometric mean bias and geometric variance and shared these validation results with the public. The works of the Havens and Hanna teams were also influential in explaining why the maximum concentration of methane in air at the property limits of an LNG facility should be 50 percent of its lower flammability limit during an LNG spill. Eleven years later, Chang and Hanna discussed how the relationships between fractional bias, geometric mean bias, geometric variance, and normalized mean square error could explain vapor dispersion model over and under prediction ( Chang & Hanna, 2004 ). Despite these successful efforts, there has been reluctance to embrace vapor dispersion model results, because exclusion zones are not described as creating margins of safety (i.e. additional separation distance) or higher confidence levels (i.e. a likelihood of being correct) that protect the public. This paper proposes an improved performance metric to evaluate the validity of vapor dispersion models and a statistical methodology to determine the confidence level and the inherent margin of safety in calculating vapor dispersion exclusion zones. Descriptions of the new metric and methodology are presented in this document for the DEGADIS vapor dispersion model, together with example calculations.
The thermodynamic stability of gaseous molybdenum pentafluoride

Abstract The heterogeneous reaction equilibrium ( 5 6 ) MoF 6 (g) + ( 1 6 ) Mo(s) = MoF 5 (g) was studied by mass spectrometry over the range 460 to 525 K, and values of Δ r H o R at 298.15 K derived by the second-law (6.9 ± 0.5) kK and third-law (6.4 ± 1.0) kK procedures are in close agreement. From the preferred second-law result, one derives Δ f H o R of MoF 5 (g) at 298.15 K to be −(149.3 ± 0.5) kK, in good agreement with a value obtained previously from gaseous equilibrium measurements in the Mo+S+F system. Another value for MoF 5 (g) derived from the vapor pressure of MoF 5 (l) appears to be in error because of an incorrect evaluation of the partial pressure of monomer. The primary bond-dissociation function, {D( F 5 Mo-F )} R , is found to be 47.6 kK, compared with the average value of 53.8 kK in MoF 6 . Gas-solid equilibrium in the MoF 6 +MoF 5 +Mo system is attained rapidly at the low temperatures and pressures of our experiments, once a “clean” Mo surface is generated.
The nested neural hierarchy and the self

In spite of enormous recent interest in the neurobiology of the self, we currently have no global models of the brain that explain how its anatomical structure, connectivity, and physiological functioning create a unified self. In this article I present a triadic neurohierarchical model of the self that proposes that the self can be understood as the product of three hierarchical anatomical systems: The interoself system, the integrative self system, and the exterosensorimotor system. An analysis of these three systems and their functional features indicates that the neural hierarchy possesses features of both non-nested and nested hierarchies that are necessary for the creation of a unified consciousness and self. These functional properties also make the central nervous system a biologically unique entity unlike anything else in nature.
Characteristics and dynamics of illegal firearms markets: Implications for a supply-side enforcement strategy

The question of whether the illegal firearms market serving criminals and juveniles can be disrupted has been vigorously debated. Recent research suggests that illegal gun markets consist of both “point sources” (ongoing diversions through scofflaw dealers and trafficking rings) and “diffuse sources” (acquisitions through theft and informal, voluntary sales). To the extent that systematic gun trafficking is an important source of weapons for criminals and youth, focused regulatory and investigative resources may be effective in disrupting the illegal flow. In this research, we use data on traced firearms to examine one aspect of the illegal gun market that holds the most immediate promise for focused supply-side enforcement efforts—close-to-retail diversions. We find that almost one-third of traceable crime guns were recently diverted from legitimate retail firearms commerce and that nearly one-third had two or more indicators of gun trafficking involving dealers, purchasers, and possessors. We discuss th...
Dissolved hydrogen and methane in the oceanic basaltic biosphere

Abstract The oceanic basaltic crust is the largest aquifer on Earth and has the potential to harbor substantial subsurface microbial ecosystems, which hitherto remains largely uncharacterized and is analogous to extraterrestrial subsurface habitats. Within the sediment-buried 3.5 Myr old basaltic crust of the eastern Juan de Fuca Ridge flank, the circulating basement fluids have moderate temperature (∼65 °C) and low to undetectable dissolved oxygen and nitrate concentrations. Sulfate, present in high concentrations, is therefore expected to serve as the major electron acceptor in this subsurface environment. This study focused on the availability and potential sources of two important electron donors, methane (CH4) and hydrogen (H2), for the subseafloor biosphere. High integrity basement fluids were collected via fluid delivery lines associated with Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Circulation Obviation Retrofit Kits (CORKs) that extend from basement depths to outlet ports at the seafloor. Two new CORKs installed during IODP 327 in 2010, 1362A and 1362B, were sampled in 2011 and 2013. The two CORKs are superior than earlier style CORKs in that they are equipped with coated casing and polytetrafluoroethylene fluid delivery lines, reducing the interaction between casing materials with the environment. Additional samples were collected from an earlier style CORK at Borehole 1301A. The basement fluids are enriched in H2 (0.05–1.8 μmol/kg), suggesting that the ocean basaltic aquifer can support H2-driven metabolism. The basement fluids also contain significant amount of CH4 (5–32 μmol/kg), revealing CH4 as an available substrate for subseafloor basaltic habitats. The δ13C values of CH4 from the three boreholes ranged from −22.5 to − 58 ‰ , while the δ2H values ranged from −316 to 57‰. The isotopic compositions of CH4 and the molecular compositions of hydrocarbons suggest that CH4 in the basement fluids is of both biogenic and abiotic origins, varying among sites and sampling times. The δ2H values of CH4 in CORK 1301A fluid samples are much more positive than found in all other marine environments investigated to date and are best explained by the partial microbial oxidation of biogenic CH4. In conclusion, our study shows that CH4 and H2 are persistently available to fuel the deep biosphere and that CH4 is both produced and potentially consumed by microorganisms in the oceanic basement.
Transforming growth factor-β2 prevents preterm delivery induced by interleukin-α and tumor necrosis factor-α the rabbit

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine whether preterm parturition in the rabbit can be induced by intraamniotic injection of proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-α and tumor necrosis factor-β2, and whether transforming growth factor-p2, an inhibitor of the cytokine-induced prostaglandin synthesis, modifies the effect of these cytokines. Study Design: New Zealand White rabbits were injected in each amniotic cavity on day 24 of gestation with one of the following: a combination of interleukin-α (150 µg) and tumor necrosis factor-α (1.25 µg), 50 ng of transforming growth factor-β2 concomitantly with interleukin-α and tumor necrosis factor-α, or vehicle. In the first study the animals were observed for signs of delivery until day 29 of gestation. In the second study the effect of transforming growth factor-β2 (50 ng/fetus) on the rate of premature delivery was evaluated. In the third study the concentrations of prostaglandin E 2 and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α. were measured in the amniotic fluid on day 27 of gestation. The statistics used were Fisher's exact test, the X 2 test, and the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: Altogether 61 of 191 fetuses (32%) were born prematurely in the interleukin-1 α-tumor necrosis factor-a group, whereas only two of 161 fetuses (1.2%) ( p = 0.0001) and one of 159 (0.6%) ( p = 0.0001) were born prematurely in the interleukin-1a tumor necrosis factor-α-transforming growth factor-β2 group and in the control group, respectively. Of the 23 animals injected with interleukin-1 α and tumor necrosis factor-α, six (26%) delivered all of their fetuses prematurely versus none in the other groups ( p = 0.02). None of the 88 fetuses in the transforming growth factor-α group were born prematurely. The prostaglandin E 2 concentrations in the amniotic fluids were higher in the interleukin-1a-tumor necrosis factor-α group than in the interleukin-lα-tumor necrosis factor-α-transforming growth factor-β2 group ( p = 0.05) or in the control group ( p = 0.02). Conclusions: Preterm parturition can be provoked in the rabbit by intraamniotic injections of interleukin-la and tumor necrosis factor-a. Transforming growth factor-P2 prevents the cytokine-induced increase in premature delivery.
Early Summer Dispersion of the Boll Weevil

The dispersion of the cotton boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis , within a field after the hibernating weevils have become established is periodic. Each period of dispersion coincides with the emergence of a new brood of weevils. The spread of weevils across a field is usually direct from plant to plant or row to row and is not the result of long flights. Newly emerged weevils do not usually migrate until sexual maturity is attained. This information has been used in locating infestations at the beginning of the second and third periods of dispersion and in timing dust applications. Small infested areas dusted before weevils reached sexual maturity resulted in apparent extermination of infestation.
Secure Operation, Control, and Maintenance of Future E-Enabled Airplanes

Commercial aviation is at the threshold of the era of the e-enabled airplane, brought about by the convergence of rapidly expanding worldwide data communication infrastructures, network-centric information processing, and commoditized lightweight computational hardware. With advanced avionics, processing, and wireless communication capabilities, the e-enabled airplane can revolutionize the current air transportation system. However, the use of unregulated information technology and wireless technologies introduces vulnerabilities that can be exploited to provide unauthorized access to the onboard aviation information systems and impede their operation. The emerging security threats are not covered by current aviation guidance, and regulations, hence, remain to be addressed. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of security of the e-enabled airplane with applications such as electronic distribution of loadable software and data, as well as future directions such as wireless health monitoring, networked control, and airborne ad hoc networks.
Viruses use stealth technology to escape from the host immune system

In this review, we focus on recent investigations that reveal novel mechanisms by which viruses evade detection and elimination by the host immune system. In particular, we consider the evasion mechanisms of five persistent viruses: herpes simplex virus, human cytomegalovirus, mouse cytomegalovirus, Epstein—Barr virus and adenovirus. Unravelling the strategies used by viruses to survive within the host could identify new targets for antiviral drugs and for improved vaccines. Identification of the mechanisms that underlie these strategies might also reveal new, fundamental features of biology that occur in uninfected cells and are exploited by viruses.
The muscle dwelling myxozoan, Kudoa inornata , enhances swimming performance in the spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus

Parasites usurp host resources and, as a consequence, enhance their transmission and increase their fitness while reducing the fitness of their host. Performance capacity is a key predictor of fitness. Thus, the effects of parasites on host fitness may often be mediated by alteration of host performance. We tested the effect of the skeletal muscle dwelling myxozoan, Kudoa inornata, on the swimming performance in spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus. We predicted greater infection would result in reduced swimming performance. Unexpectedly, increasing density of K. inornata myxospores in seatrout skeletal muscle was related to increased fish swimming performance. The experiment was repeated and confirmed these unexpected results. The mechanisms underlying enhanced performance of an infected host are not understood, but their occurrence emphasizes the role of parasites as selective pressures on host evolution.
The Steiner tree problem II: properties and classes of facets

This is the second part of two papers addressing the study of the facial structure of the Steiner tree polyhedron. In this paper we identify several classes of facet defining inequalities and relate them to special classes of graphs on which the Steiner tree problem is known to be NP-hard.
Electromyographic effects of foot orthotics on selected lower extremity muscles during running.

Abstract Objective: To study the effects of foot orthotics on the mean electromyographic amplitude of proximal and distal lower extremity muscle groups during the first 50% of the stance phase during treadmill running. Design: Repeated measures. Setting: Subjects were recruited from the general community. Participants: Twelve recreational runners who were symptomatic for lower extremity pain. Clinical and radiographic findings confirmed the presence of structural malalignment of the foot. Intervention: Semirigid orthotics were fabricated for each subject, and like footwear provided. Main Outcome Measures: Surface electromyogram activity from the tibialis anterior, medial gastrocnemius, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, and biceps femoris was collected during treadmill running at self-selected speeds for orthotic and nonorthotic conditions. Root mean square values were averaged across 10 cycles, normalized to time and expressed as a percentage of the nonorthotic condition. Results: Paired t test results showed statistically significant changes ( p Conclusion: Although subjects' electromyographic responses to orthotic use were highly individualized, the findings of this study may enhance our understanding of muscle activity changes associated with positive outcomes from orthotic use.
The role of Brachyury (T) during gastrulation movements in the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus.

The studies described here sought to identify and characterize genes involved in the gastrulation and morphogenetic movements that occur during sea urchin embryogenesis. An orthologue of the T-box family transcription factor, Brachyury, was cloned through a candidate gene approach. Brachyury (T) is the founding member of this T-box transcription factor family and has been implicated in gastrulation movements in Xenopus, zebrafish, and mouse embryogenesis. Polyclonal serum was generated to LvBrac in order to characterize protein expression. LvBrac initially appears at mesenchyme blastula stage in two distinct regions with embryonic expression perduring until pluteus stage. Vegetally, LvBrac expression is in endoderm and lies circumferentially around the blastopore. This torus-shaped area of LvBrac expression remains constant in size as endoderm cells express LvBrac upon moving into that circumference and cease LvBrac expression as they leave the circumference. Vegetal expression remains around the anus through pluteus stage. The second domain of LvBrac expression first appears broadly in the oral ectoderm at mesenchyme blastula stage and at later embryonic stages is refined to just the stomodael opening. Vegetal LvBrac expression depends on autonomous beta-catenin signaling in macromeres and does not require micromere or veg2-inductive signals. It was then determined that LvBrac is necessary for the morphogenetic movements occurring in both expression regions. A dominant-interfering construct was generated by fusing the DNA binding domain of LvBrac to the transcriptional repression module of the Drosophila Engrailed gene in order to perturb gene function. Microinjection of mRNA encoding this LvBrac-EN construct resulted in a block in gastrulation movements but not expression of endoderm and mesoderm marker genes. Furthermore, injection of LvBrac-EN into one of two blastomeres resulted in normal gastrulation movements of tissues derived from the injected blastomere, indicating that LvBrac downstream function may be nonautonomous during sea urchin gastrulation.
Approximate medians and other quantiles in one pass and with limited memory

We present new algorithms for computing approximate quantiles of large datasets in a single pass. The approximation guarantees are explicit, and apply for arbitrary value distributions and arrival distributions of the dataset. The main memory requirements are smaller than those reported earlier by an order of magnitude.We also discuss methods that couple the approximation algorithms with random sampling to further reduce memory requirements. With sampling, the approximation guarantees are explicit but probabilistic, i.e. they apply with respect to a (user controlled) confidence parameter.We present the algorithms, their theoretical analysis and simulation results on different datasets.
Variations in zonal mean and planetary wave properties of the stratosphere and links with the troposphere

Zonal mean data and amplitudes and phases of planetary zonal waves were derived from daily hemispheric maps for tropospheric and stratospheric levels, for the four winters 1975–76 to 1978–79. Important year-to-year fluctuation in zonal means and wave activity are described, most notable of which are the changes from 1975–76 to 1976–77. Comparison of the relative strengths of the stratospheric and tropospheric jet streams shows a strong negative correlation (−0.8) between monthly mean zonal stratospheric winds (at 10 mb, 65°N) and zonal tropospheric winds (at 200 mb, 32.5°N, in the jet core) and a positive correlation (+0.7) between the stratospheric 10 mb winds and the tropospheric 200 mb winds at 65°N. Parameters correlated were the departures from the climatological mean zonal winds. The structure of correlation between wave amplitudes in the same wave number (1, 2) at different altitudes and between wave numbers 1 and 2 is investigated. We find a high correlation (+0.93) between wave 1 in the stratosphere (10 mb height) and wave 2 (height) in the troposphere at 65°N; but only a weak correlation (+0.2) between wave 1 amplitudes in the stratosphere and troposphere. These results suggest the possible importance of wave-wave interactions in processes linking the stratosphere and troposphere. The wave correlations presented here are based on comparisons of monthly means of daily amplitudes; the correlation structure in individual wave developments may differ, in view of the likelihood of altitudinal lags in wave amplification.
The Influence of Discussion Groups in a Case-based Learning Environment

The common practice of using discussion groups during case-based learning makes the role of discussion important in these learning environments. However, little empirical research has been done to investigate the influence of discussion on performance and motivation in case-based learning. The purpose of this article is to present the results of a study conducted to examine the role of discussion groups in a case-based environment. College students completed two cases either individually or in small discussion groups. Measures included two case analyses, an attitude survey, time on task, and document analysis. Results revealed significant performance and time differences between instructional methods on the first case, but not on the second case. In addition, results indicated significant differences in student attitudes between treatments. Overall, participants who worked in groups liked their method significantly better than those who worked alone, felt they learned more working in a group than they would have working alone, and expressed a preference for working in a group if they had to do the class over again. Implications for implementing case-based learning and future research are discussed.
On-line LC-MS approach combining collision-induced dissociation (CID), electron-transfer dissociation (ETD), and CID of an isolated charge-reduced species for the trace-level characterization of proteins with post-translational modifications.

We have expanded our recent on-line LC−MS platform for large peptide analysis to combine collision-induced dissociation (CID), electron-transfer dissociation (ETD), and CID of an isolated charge-reduced (CRCID) species derived from ETD to determine sites of phosphorylation and glycosylation modifications, as well as the sequence of large peptide fragments (i.e., 2000−10 000 Da) from complex proteins, such as β-casein, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) at the low femtomol level. The incorporation of an additional CID activation step for a charge-reduced species, isolated from ETD fragment ions, improved ETD fragmentation when precursor ions with high m/z (approximately >1000) were automatically selected for fragmentation. Specifically, the identification of the exact phosphorylation sites was strengthened by the extensive coverage of the peptide sequence with a near-continuous product ion series. The identification of N-linked glycosylation sites in EGFR and a...
A hierarchy of T cell receptor motifs determines responsiveness to the immunodominant epitope in experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis.

Abstract The predominant murine T lymphocyte population responding to Tα146–162, the immunodominant epitope in EAMG, expresses the TCRBV 6 gene segment. However, cells expressing other TCRBV gene segments also react with this peptide. In order to more precisely characterize the Tα146–162-specific TCR repertoire, we isolated CD4high cells from peptide-immunized mice. The majority of CD4high cells utilized an acidic TCR β chain CDR3 motif regardless of TCRBV gene usage. Analysis of T cell clones demonstrated a fourfold higher avidity of Vβ6+ than non-Vβ6 cells for Tα146–162 indicating that a hierarchy of TCR motifs determines T cell responsiveness in EAMG.
Evaluating Outdoor Experiential Training for Leadership and Team Building.

Advocates of outdoor experiential training (OET) fervently believe in its efficacy, but often have difficulty mustering “hard data” on the business results attributable to OET. OET adherents tend to rely on testimonials of how it promotes leadership and team development. Return on investment (ROI) analysis is perhaps the best way to demonstrate the impact of OET. ROI calculations treat leadership and team development training expenditures as an investment and evaluate the financial returns to an organization relative to that investment. This paper outlines a model by which the ROI of OET can be calculated, and encourages research in this area.
Financial implications of outdoor recreation planning practices: A case study from Virginia.

Abstract A financial analysis of Virginia's outdoor recreation program is presented. The conclusions of the paper may be applicable to many state recreation programs. First, state recreation planning procedures are not realistic; that is, projected requirements for recreational facility development cannot be satisfied within expected budget constraints. Second, increases in user fees and/or increases in general funds allocated to recreation will be necessary to support only modest recreation development for the future.
Abnormalities of the Pulmonary Artery Resembling Intrathoracic Neoplasms

SUMMARY 1.Eleven cases of abnormalities of the pulmonary artery are reported. 2.All 11 were mistakenly diagnosed as intrathoracic neoplasm. 3.One case was subjected to thoracotomy and one was given therapeutic radiation because of incorrect diagnosis. 4.Significant associated diseases contributing to pulmonary artery dilatation were reported in cases 1 through 6. 5.In cases 7 through 11, the abnormality was confined to the pulmonary artery and the lung fields were normal. 6.The role of angiocardiography in the diagnosis of abnormal hilar shadows is emphasized.
Evaluating the information matrix in linearized DSGE models

Abstract In this note we show how the stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models can be evaluated analytically. The result is useful for the estimation and identification analysis of such models.
IS THERE A LIQUIDITY CRISIS FOR SMALL, BLACK-OWNED FIRMS?

Loans and trade credit are major sources of short-term debt and liquidity for small firms. This article uses data from the 1998 Survey of Small Business Finances to compare the borrowing experience of small firms owned by black men to those owned by white men. Results reveal that black firm owners were more dependent on loans from non-bank sources than white owners. Black men were significantly more likely to have been turned down for their most recent loan and were more likely to be discouraged from applying for loans. Results also reveal that black men were more likely to be turned down for trade credit. Overall, these findings seem to suggest that firms owned by black men have a more difficult time securing sources of short term debt than those owned by white men.
THE MAKING OF A PEASANT KING IN COLONIAL WESTERN INDIA: THE CASE OF RANCHOD VIRA

Ranchod Vira was a 50-year-old peasant who, along with his wife, son and grandson, tilled over four acres of the village headman's land in Chaklasi, located in the plains of central Gujarat in western India.1 Little is known about the early years of Ranchod's life, except that he was a bhagat (village priest) who belonged to an agricultural community known as the Baraiyas.2 Indeed, he would probably have left no trace in the annals of history, but for the fact that on 9 January 1898 he declared the end of the British Raj and proclaimed himself the