cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comment on "Regolith Layer Thickness Mapping of the Moon by Radar and Optical Data," by Y. G. Shkuratov and N. V. Bondarenko

In a recent Icarus article, Shkuratov and Bondarenko (2001) propose a model for the depth of the lunar regolith based on 70-cm radar observations and near-infrared spectroscopy. This model treats the regolith as a single homogeneous layer of lossy dust, and ignores scattering by buried rocks. There is also an implicit assumption that the regolith substrate is everywhere of uniform morphology. Radar scattering from this substrate is treated using averaged Fresnel coefficients, with little explanation of how such a model might produce the observed lunar polarization properties. Taken together, these issues weaken the validity of the published regolith depth map.
Antagonism by deoxyribosides of the inhibitory action of certain hydroxamic acids on deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis

L'action inhibitrice de l'hydroxyuree (HU) sur une synthese de DNA peut etre antagonisee par des deoxyribosides (dR). De meme, un melange de deoxyadenosine, de deoxyguanosine, et de deoxycytidine annule completement l'action de l'acide oxanyl hydroxamique (OHA) et inverse, en partie, les effets de l'acide salicylhydroxamique (SHA) et de l'acide (dihydroxybenzoyl-2.3)-hydroxamique (DHB). Lorsqu'on ajoute de la thymidine a une solution de dR, le schema general d'antagonisme est similaire. De plus, en presence des quatre dR, l'action de l'acetoxyoxamide (AOA) est en partie antagonisee. Il a ete conclu que ces acides hydroxamiques, comme l'HU, interviennent, a un degre plus ou moins grand, avec reduction des ribosides.
Double degeneracy and Jahn-Teller effects in colossal-magnetoresistance perovskites

Jahn-Teller (JT) electron-phonon-coupling effects in the colossal-magnetoresistance perovskite compounds ${\mathrm{La}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{A}_{x}\mathrm{Mn}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ are investigated. Electron-electron correlations between two degenerate Mn ${e}_{g}$ orbitals are studied in the Gutzwiller approximation. The static JT distortion and nonadiabatic polaron effects are studied in a modified Lang-Firsov approximation. We find that (i) the electron or hole character of the charge carrier depends on the static JT distortion and (ii) due to the two-component nature of the JT coupling, fluctuations in the JT distortion direction contribute to the charge transport in similar fashion as the local spins.
Existence and upper hemicontinuity of equilibrium distributions of anonymous games with discontinuous payoffs

Abstract This paper deals with large anonymous games with compact metric action spaces and payoff functions which are upper semicontinuous but not necessarily lower semicontinuous. Under the supremum norm topology on the space of payoff functions and a tightness assumption on the game, the existence of Nash equilibrium distributions and the closed graph property of the equilibrium distribution correspondence are proved. If the space of payoff functions is given the hypotopology instead, the equilibrium distributions exists, but the equilibrium distribution correspondence may not have a closed graph.
Complexity in Collaboration: Developing an Understanding of Macrocognition in Teams through Examination of Task Complexity

How individuals and teams work together to plan, think, decide, and solve problems has been of increasing interest to researchers within the past decade. Specifically, collaborative aspects of macr...
Relevance of the Bayesian paradigm for “applied probabilists”

This paper is based on an invited lecture given by the author at the ORSA/TIMS Special Interest Group on Applied Probability Conference onStatistical and Computational Problems in Probability Modeling, held at Williamsburg, Virginia, January 7–9, 1985.
Melamine Detection in Infant Formula Powder Using Near- and Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy

Near- and mid-infrared spectroscopy methods (NIR, FTIR-ATR, FTIR-DRIFT) were evaluated for the detection and quantification of melamine in infant formula powder. Partial least-squares (PLS) models were established for correlating spectral data to melamine concentration: R(2) > 0.99, RMSECV ≤ 0.9, and RPD ≥ 12. Factorization analysis of spectra was able to differentiate unadulterated infant formula powder from samples containing 1 ppm melamine with no misclassifications, a confidence level of 99.99%, and selectivity > 2. These nondestructive methods require little or no sample preparation. The NIR method has an assay time of 1 min, and a 2 min total time to detection. The FTIR methods require up to 5 min for melamine detection. Therefore, NIR and FTIR methods enable rapid detection of 1 ppm melamine in infant formula powder.
Simulation study of HEMT structures with HfO2 cap layer for mitigating inverse piezoelectric effect related device failures

The Inverse Piezoelectric Effect (IPE) is thought to contribute to possible device failure of GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs). Here we focus on a simulation study to probe the possible mitigation of the IPE by reducing the internal electric fields and related elastic energy through the use of high-k materials. Inclusion of a HfO2 “cap layer” above the AlGaN barrier particularly with a partial mesa structure is shown to have potential advantages. Simulations reveal even greater reductions in the internal electric fields by using “field plates” in concert with high-k oxides.
Free thyroxine by solid phase radioimmunoassay: improvement in the laboratory diagnosis of thyroid status in severely ill patients.

Abstract During severe systemic illness total thyroid hormone levels are often low, and measurement of total hormones often does not differentiate between euthyroid and hypothyroid patients. Therefore, we examined serum free thyroxine levels by radioimmunoassay (antibody-coated tubes, Clinical Assays) as an altemative diagnostic test in three groups of severely ill patients with subnormal triiodothyronine. Free thyroxine estimates agreed with the clinical impression and TSH in 91% of cases in group 1 (47 patients with no history or clinical evidence of thyroid disorder), in 96% of cases in group 2 (24 euthyroid patients with a previous history of thyroid disease, including some on thyroid replacement) and 90% of cases in group 3 (10 hypothyroid patients). By contrast, the free thyroxine index did so in only 53% (group 1), 46% (group 2) or 100% (group 3). Sequential studies showed little change in free thyroxine and TSH levels in euthyroid patients during illness and recovery, and a good negative correlation between free thyroxine and TSH in hypothyroid patients. Free thyroxine measurements (and TSH) discriminate between euthyroid and hypothyroid sick patients better than other thyroid function tests including the free thyroxine index, and can be employed routinely: a distinct advantage over free thyroxine measured by equilibrium dialysis.
A randomized clinical trial of group-based cognitive-behavioral stress management in localized prostate cancer: development of stress management skills improves quality of life and benefit finding.

Background: Recent literature has indicated that a significant percentage of oncology patients describe finding some benefit (e.g., improved personal growth, sense of meaning, and enhanced interpersonal relationships) in the cancer experience. However, few studies have investigated the role of group-based psychosocial interventions in improving benefit finding (BF), and virtually none have investigated these constructs in men.Purpose: This study examined whether a cognitive-behavioral stress management (CBSM) intervention improves BF and quality of life (QoL) in men recovering from treatment for localized prostate cancer.Methods: Participants in this study were 191 men (M age = 65.1) treated with radiation or radical prostatectomy for clinically localized (i.e., Stage I or II) prostate cancer. Participants were primarily non-Hispanic White (40%) or Hispanic (41 %), followed by Black (18%) and other ethnicity (1 %), were an average of 65.1 years old (SD = 7.7), and earned an average of $47,800 annually (SD = $41,000). Participants were randomized to either a 10-week group-based cognitive-behavioral stress management intervention or a half-day educational seminar as a control condition. All participants provided demographic information and completed the Positive Contributions Scale-Cancer to assess BF, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy to measure quality of life, and a measure of perceived stress management skills. Structural equation modeling was utilized for all analyses.Results: Results indicated that the CBSM condition led to increases in BF and QoL and that these changes were mediated by the development of stress management skills.Conclusions: Results support the use of group-based cognitive-behavioral interventions in promoting QoL and BF in this population.
Vortex Contribution to the Excess Noise in Superconducting Transition

We report voltage noise studies on thin tin films in the superconducting transition region to understand the mechanism of the excess noises observed in the transition. Temperature and I–V characteristics studies suggest evidence of a Kosterlitz–Thouless transition for the thin Sn films studied. A correlation of the onset of rapid increases of noise with the power law in I–V points to the dominant vortex contribution to the excess noises, consistent with the characteristic \(\sqrt{V}\) dependence of the spectral power of the noise.
Lessons learned from recent D-3He tokamak power reactor studies

In conclusion, the advantages of the D-3He fuel cycle are compelling but the challenges are great. The economics of a fusion power plant with a permanent first wall, especially in terms of availability and reliability, should translate into an attractive future option for society. The safety and environmental features of this type of power could make this energy source irresistible for a world choked by pollution and racked with wars over the remaining scraps of fossil fuel energy. These advantages will not come free; the physics in terms of highernτT, larger plasma currents, ash removal requirements, and the need to use fuel from settlements on the Moon (which should be in place long before we need3He for power reactors) are all problems that need to be solve in the next 20 years. The benefits to mankind surely will overweigh these latter problems and the nation, or nations who develop this energy source will have an important strategic advantage in the twenty-first century.
Recent progress in improving ductility of ultra-high strength nanostructured metals

Until very recently, the reported tensile ductility of ultra-high strength nanocrystalline metals was disappointingly low. This article presents a brief overview of recent progress in identifying a group of nanostructured bulk elemental metals that offer not only gigapascal strength but also decent ductility. These include electrodeposited nanocrystalline or nano-twinned metals, and consolidated full-density nanocrystalline metals. Our own recent studies of these interesting nanomaterials, extending our previous/parallel success in optimizing the properties of bulk nanostructured metals prepared via severe plastic deformation, also demonstrated unprecedented tensile plastic strains.
The role of psychologists in the treatment of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common progressive neurological disorder affecting individuals between 15 and 50 years of age. Because of its neuropathological process, MS causes multiple symptoms that impact the physical, social, vocational, and psychological well-being of patients. Within the comprehensive care approach to treatment of these patients, psychologists provide multiple services. In the present paper, we summarize current research on psychological treatments of symptoms common to patients with MS. Investigators have advocated use of many types of individual and group psychotherapeutic approaches to treat psychiatric symptoms caused by MS, but there are few controlled outcome studies. The existing controlled outcome studies indicate that cognitive behavioral, insight-oriented, and stress management group therapies are effective, as are individual approaches utilizing stress inoculation training and pharmacotherapy. Reports concerning biofeedback have used single case designs and provide initial evidence that this technique is useful for treating fecal incontinence and retention, postural instability, and weaning from a respirator. MS symptoms that may also be amenable to psychological treatments include chronic pain, weight management, and sexual dysfunctions, although there are currently no outcome studies that verify the efficacy of these treatments when used with MS patients. Because of the multiple symptoms produced by MS, clinicians often need to modify delivery of services. In this paper, we provide specific recommendations to help clinicians tailor their treatments to the special needs of patients with MS. Finally, we provide suggestions for future research.
A model for creep based on microstructural length scale evolution

Abstract This paper seeks to quantitatively link recovery and plastic deformation to develop a model for creep. A simple approach with one length scale coarsening equation is postulated in this paper to provide a descriptive and unified framework to understand recovery. We propose that recovery is a general dislocation-level coarsening process whereby the length scale, λ, is refined by dislocation generation by plastic deformation and is increased concurrently by coarsening processes. Coarsening relations generally take the form: d (λ m c )=KR(T) d t where R(T) is the rate equation for the fundamental rate controlling step in coarsening, K a free constant, dt a time increment and mc is the coarsening exponent. Arguments are presented that mc should be in the range of 3–4 for dislocation or subgrain coarsening. The coarsening equation postulated is consistent with the compared data sets in the following ways: (i) temporal evolution of one length scale λ; (ii) temperature dependence of recovery rate; (iii) adequacy of single parameter in the proper description of strength change. The coarsening equation is coupled with standard arguments for modeling plastic deformation. Combining these we can easily justify the form of the empirically derived Dorn creep equation: γ D(T) =B τ μ n where the mobility of the recovering feature, R(T) should typically scale with self diffusivity, D(T), and the value of the steady-state creep exponent, n is 2+mc−2c where c is a constant related to dislocation generation that should be in the range of 0–0.5. Hence, this approach predicts creep as being controlled by self diffusion and that the steady-state stress exponent should be on the order of 4–6. All the parameters in the creep model can be estimated from non-creep data. Comparison with the reported steady-state creep data of pure metals shows good agreement suggesting recovery modeled as coarsening is a fundamental element in steady-state creep.
Effects of chlordecone and chlordecone alcohol on isolated ovine erythrocytes.

Chlordecone (CHLO, 14–30 μδ) and chlordecone alcohol (CHLO ALC, 10–23 μδ) altered the permeability of isolated ovine erythrocytes as evidenced by a concentration‐and time‐dependent induction of K+ efflux and hemolysis. Hemolysis, but not K+ efflux, was markedly delayed when the erythrocytes were suspended in isotonic sucrose. CHLO‐induced and CHLO ALC‐induced hemolysis and K+ efflux were dependent on the pH of the external media. Raising the pH from 6.5 to 9.4 inhibited CHLO‐induced K+ efflux and hemolysis, whereas CHLO ALC‐induced K+ efflux and hemolysis were increased. Low concentrations of both compounds (1–4 μδ) protected erythrocytes against hypotonic hemolysis. Neither CHLO (30 μδ) nor CHLO ALC (23 μδ) induced the release of trapped K+ from KSCN‐loaded unilamellar liposomes made from erythrocyte lipids. It is postulated that CHLO and CHLO ALC interact with membrane proteins and increase the permeability of the membrane to cations. This interaction leads to colloid‐osmotic hemolysis.
Genome-scale microbial in silico models: the constraints-based approach

Genome sequencing and annotation has enabled the reconstruction of genome-scale metabolic networks. The phenotypic functions that these networks allow for can be defined and studied using constraints-based models and in silico simulation. Several useful predictions have been obtained from such in silico models, including substrate preference, consequences of gene deletions, optimal growth patterns, outcomes of adaptive evolution and shifts in expression profiles. The success rate of these predictions is typically in the order of 70-90% depending on the organism studied and the type of prediction being made. These results are useful as a basis for iterative model building and for several practical applications.
Axillofemoral bypass for aortoiliac occlusive disease.

Abstract Background: Although aortoiliac disease remains a common cause of lower extremity ischemia, the efficacy of axillofemoral bypass in this setting remains controversial. This report summarizes our institutional experience with axillofemoral bypass. Methods: A retrospective review of consecutive axillofemoral bypass grafts was performed at a single institution between 1984 and 1997. Only patients presenting with chronic aortoiliac occlusive disease were included. Patient demographics, risk factors, indications for surgery and outcomes were recorded. Survival curves for primary patency were plotted using the Kaplan-Meier method according to the standards set by the Society of Vascular Surgery-International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery. Comparisons between groups were made using the log rank method. Statistical significance was assumed at P values Results: Sixty patients underwent axillofemoral bypass grafting of which 53 were bifemoral and 8 unifemoral. Forty-seven procedures were performed for limb salvage. Primary patency rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 86%, 72%, and 63%, respectively. Thirty-day mortality rate was 4.9%. Sixty percent of graft occlusions occurred in the femorofemoral limb with continued patency of the axillofemoral limb. Risk factors, type of procedure and superficial femoral artery patency had no statistically significant effect on long-term patency. Conclusions: In the setting of diffuse, chronic aortoiliac occlusive disease, long-term patency rates of axillofemoral grafts approach those of aortobifemoral bypass and exceed those quoted for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, with results that are highly reproducible. Axillofemoral bypass is an excellent option in those patients at prohibitive risk for direct aortic reconstruction or those with limited life expectancy.
Impact of Applying Edible Oils to Silk Channels on Ear Pests of Sweet Corn

The impact of applying edible oils to corn silks on ear-feeding insects in sweet corn, Zea mays L., production was evaluated in 2006 and 2007. Six edible oils used in this experiment were canola, corn, olive, peanut, sesame, and soybean. Water and two commercial insecticidal oils (Neemix neem oil and nC21 Sunspray Ultrafine, a horticultural mineral oil) were used as the controls for the experiment. Six parameters evaluated in this experiment were corn earworm [Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)] damage rating, the number of sap beetle [Carpophilus spp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)] adults and larvae, the number of corn silk fly (or picture-winged fly) (Diptera: Ulidiidae) larvae, common smut [Ustilago maydis (D.C.) Corda] infection rate, and corn husk coverage. Among the two control treatments, neem oil reduced corn earworm damage at both pre- and postpollination applications in 2006, but not in 2007, whereas the mineral oil applied at postpollination treatments reduced corn earworm damage in both years. The mineral oil also reduced the number of sap beetle adults, whereas the neem oil applied at postpollination attracted the most sap beetle adults in 2007. Among the six edible oil treatments, the corn and sesame oils applied at postpollination reduced corn earworm damage only in 2007. The application of the peanut oil at postpollination attracted more sap beetle adults in 2006, and more sap beetle larvae in 2007. Olive and neem oils significantly reduced husk coverage compared with the water control in both years. The mineral oil application consistently increased smut infection rate in both 2006 and 2007. Ramifications of using oil treatments in ear pest management also are discussed.
Long-term efficacy of polyethylene glycol 3350 for the treatment of chronic constipation in children with and without encopresis

Seventy-four children (43 with chronic constipation, 31 with constipation and encopresis) treated with polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG) for longer than 3 months were studied to assess long-term efficacy. The mean duration of PEG therapy was 8.4 months (range, 3-30). Weekly stool frequency, stool consistency, and symptoms associated with constipation improved significantly with PEG therapy in all 74 patients. In 31 children with encopresis, soiling ceased completely in 16 patients and frequency of soiling decreased significantly in all others. The average effective long-term dose of PEG was 0.7 g/kg/day. Long-term PEG therapy is effective for the treatment of chronic constipation with and without encopresis in children.
Turbine blade showerhead film cooling: Influence of hole angle and shaping

Detailed film cooling measurements are presented on a turbine blade leading edge model with three rows of showerhead holes. Experiments are run at a mainstream Reynolds number of 19,500 based on cylindrical leading edge diameter. One row of holes is located on the stagnation line and the other two rows are located at 615° on either side of the stagnation line. The three rows have compound angle holes angled 90° in the flow direction, 30° along the spanwise direction, and the two holes on either side of the stagnation row have and additional angle of 0°, 30°, and 45° in the transverse direction. The effect of hole shaping of the 30° and 45° holes is also considered. Detailed heat transfer coefficient and film effectiveness measurements are obtained using a transient infrared thermography technique. The results are compared to determine the advantages of shaping the compound angle for rows of holes off stagnation row. Results show that, the additional compound angle in the transverse direction for the two rows adjacent to the stagnation row provide significantly higher film effectiveness than the typical leading edge holes with only two angles. Results also show that, the shaping of showerhead holes provides higher film effectiveness than just adding an additional compound angle in the transverse direction and significantly higher effectiveness than the baseline typical leading edge geometry. Heat transfer coefficients are higher as the spanwise angle for this study is larger than typical leading edge geometries with an angle of 30° compared to 20° for other studies.
Simple time reaction as a function of luminance for various wavelengths

Reaction time to white and colored targets was measured on two Ss for stimuli presented over a wide range of scotopic and photopic retinal illuminance levels. The colored targets were each photometrically matched for brightness against a white standard target at one photopic level (1.00 log td). The data show that for both the white and colored stimuli, reaction time is long at low target illuminations and progressively decreases to approach a final asymptotic value as the illumination level is increased. Discontinuities in the experimental curves relating reaction time and retinal illuminance occur at about −1.00 log td for all colors except red, in accordance with predictions based on the duplicity theory of vision. The photopic (cone) segments of the experimental curves overlap, while the scotopic (rod) segments are laterally displaced to progressively lower retinal-illuminance values as target wavelength is decreased, in accordance with expectations based on the differences in the luminosity functions of the scotopic and photopic systems.
In Situ D-periodic Molecular Structure of Type II Collagen

Collagens are essential components of extracellular matrices in multicellular animals. Fibrillar type II collagen is the most prominent component of articular cartilage and other cartilage-like tissues such as notochord. Its in situ macromolecular and packing structures have not been fully characterized, but an understanding of these attributes may help reveal mechanisms of tissue assembly and degradation (as in osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis). In some tissues such as lamprey notochord, the collagen fibrillar organization is naturally crystalline and may be studied by x-ray diffraction. We used diffraction data from native and derivative notochord tissue samples to solve the axial, D-periodic structure of type II collagen via multiple isomorphous replacement. The electron density maps and heavy atom data revealed the conformation of the nonhelical telopeptides and the overall D-periodic structure of collagen type II in native tissues, data that were further supported by structure prediction and transmission electron microscopy. These results help to explain the observed differences in collagen type I and type II fibrillar architecture and indicate the collagen type II cross-link organization, which is crucial for fibrillogenesis. Transmission electron microscopy data show the close relationship between lamprey and mammalian collagen fibrils, even though the respective larger scale tissue architecture differs.
The Animated Persuader

Media are not politically neutral and political cartoons are no exception. Political viewpoints can be made clear through explicit argumentation, and through the more implicit use of visual elements. One prominent example that unites argumentation with the visual to produce political persuasion is America's first political cartoon, created by Benjamin Franklin in 1754, which frames the socio-political climate of the time with an image urging the British colonies to “Join, or Die” (Katz 2004, 44). The themes of political cartoons, despite technological progress, remain unaltered by way of their continual incorporation of “domestic politics, social themes and foreign affairs” (Kemnitz 1973, 83). While members of the academic community, such as Lester C. Olson (1987), support this connection between cartooning and persuasive rhetoric, there is much we don't know about how the persuasive arguments within political cartoons work.
Melanoma: MSLT-1[mdash]putting sentinel lymph node biopsy into context

The MSLT-1 study compared sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) with nodal observation in patients with localized cutaneous melanoma. The final results of the trial—conducted from 1994 to 2002—strongly support using SLNB in staging patients with melanomas ≥1.0 mm in thickness, but the optimal staging approach for thinner melanomas is unanswered.
Applying Dynamic Surrogate Models in Noisy Genetic Algorithms to Optimize Groundwater Remediation Designs

Computational cost is a critical issue for large-scale water-resource optimization under uncertainty, since time-intensive Monte Carlo simulations are often required to evaluate over multiple parameter realizations. This paper presents an efficient approach for replacing most Monte Carlo simulations with surrogate models within a noisy genetic algorithm (GA). The surrogates are trained to predict the posterior expectations online on the basis of stochastic decision theory, using Monte Carlo simulation results created during the GA run. The surrogates, which in this application are neural networks, are adaptively updated to improve their prediction performance as the search progresses. A Latin hypercube sampling method is used to efficiently sample parameters for the Monte Carlo simulation, and the sampling results are archived so that the estimate of posterior expectation can be iteratively improved in an efficient manner. In addition, the GA is modified to incorporate hypothesis tests in its selection op...
Is bigger better: The association between follicle size and livebirth rate following IVF?

Purpose: To analyze the correlation between lead follicle size at hCG trigger and IVF outcome. Methods: A review of all patients undergoing their first IVF cycle between 1/2005-12/2009 was performed. Four groups were evaluated (<18 mm, 18 - 18.9mm, 19 - 19.9 mm and ≥20 mm), based on the mean diameter of the two largest follicles on day of ovulation trigger (OT); cycle parameters and outcomes were analyzed. Results: 1577 cycles were reviewed. There were no significant differences noted for cycle parameters or outcomes for the 4 groups. However, although LBR was not significantly different, there was a decline noted as lead follicle size increased. Conclusions: Delaying the administration of OT to enhance follicular growth does not appear to improve IVF outcome. Larger lead follicles do not yield a higher percentage of mature oocytes, embryos available for transfer or LBR. A misguided zest to achieve a higher quantity of fertilizable oocytes may impair oocyte and embryo quality.
Improving Diabetes Care in the Uninsured: The Success of the Access To Care Program in Cook County, Illinois

Previous studies have shown that the uninsured receive a lower level of care and that their uninsured status is a risk factor for poorly controlled diabetes mellitus (DM). The Access To Care (ATC) program in Cook County, Illinois provides care to uninsured individuals who do not qualify for other public aid. The aim of our study was to evaluate DM management at Loyola University Health System’s ATC clinic. We compared ATC patients and insured patients at Loyola using processes of care and outcome measures outlined by the National Diabetes Quality Improvement Alliance. We found that the ATC group was equivalent in all processes of care. There were no differences in hemoglobin A1C or blood pressure while ATC patients had lower cholesterol. To our knowledge, this is the first study describing a clinic for the uninsured with a level of DM care and outcomes equivalent to those of insured individuals.
Characterization of spectral diffusion from two-dimensional line shapes

The analysis of line shapes in two-dimensional optical and infrared spectroscopies is a powerful approach to characterizing the dynamics of molecules in the condensed phase. Changes in line shape from diagonally elongated to symmetric as a function of waiting time arise from evolution of the transition frequency. We describe a number of quantitative measures of frequency fluctuations and spectral diffusion through the analysis of two-dimensional (2D) line shapes. These metrics are identical to the system’s frequency correlation function and independent of population relaxation in the limit of a short time approximation for the 2D response. We also test the broader applicability of these expressions for analyzing three-level vibrational systems and experiments with finite pulses.
Diffusion of adsorbates on metal surfaces

The theory of diffusion and the principal methods of determining surface diffusion coefficients are presented and their strengths and weaknesses discussed. A summary of major experimental results for diffusion of metallic and non-metallic adsorbates on metal surfaces is given and areas of agreement and disagreement between various measurements are discussed. A brief overview of principal conclusions, problem areas and future directions concludes the review.
Homochiral 4-hydroxy-5-hexenoic acids and their derivatives and homologues from carbohydrates

Abstract Efficient routes to chiral 4-hydroxy-5-hexenoic acids and lactones from d -gluconic acid-δ-lactone and l -mannonic acid-γ-lactone are described. In this approach, the starting lactones are converted to 2,6-dibromo compounds that readily undergo zinc mediated elimination to generate the terminal alkene group in concert with 2-deoxygenation. The integrity of the remaining stereocenters is preserved during the reaction. The related important pharmaceutical intermediates ( S )-3-hydroxy-4-pentenoic acid and ( S )-1,3-dihydroxy-4-pentene were also prepared from 2-deoxyribose via the corresponding aldonolactone.
The asymmetric nature of Bantu applicative constructions

Abstract Studies of the applicative constructions in various Bantu languages have revealed two types: symmetrical object languages in which both objects in double object applicatives exhibit the same syntactic properties, and asymmetrical object languages, where the two objects do not behave the same way [Bresnan, J., Moshi, L., 1990. Object asymmetries in comparative Bantu. Linguistic Inquiry 21, 147–185]. This study investigates the constituent structure of the applicatives in Kikuyu (a symmetrical object language) and Chingoni (an asymmetrical object language). Following [Ngonyani, D., 1996a. The Morphosyntax of Applicatives. Doctoral dissertation, UCLA], VP ellipsis in which only the object is missing is established as a diagnostic tool. The data demonstrate that although the constructions lack only the complement, they exhibit the same syntactic properties as English VP ellipsis, namely, availability of sloppy identity interpretation, possibility of deleting idiom chunks, and lack of island constraints. VP ellipsis reveals that applicative constructions in both languages are generated with the direct object appearing in the lowest predicate, while the applied object appears in the higher VP. This suggests the applicative affix is a head that takes an event as its complement [Pylkkanen, L., 2002. Introducing Arguments. Doctoral dissertation, MIT]. The findings show the same pattern of argument positions in the two language thus supporting Baker's [Baker, M., 1988. Incorporation: A Theory of Grammatical Function Changing. Chicago University Press, Chicago] UTAH. The study brings to light some interesting features of multiple applicatives. For example, the symmetry noted in Kikuyu double object construction is not found in multiple applicatives.
Leaf fluctuating asymmetry, soil disturbance and plant stress: A multiple year comparison using two herbs, Ipomoea pandurata and Cnidoscolus stimulosus

Abstract We studied Cnidoscolus stimulosus and Ipomoea pandurata , two common herbs of the Fall Line Sandhills to assess their potential as ecosystem level stress indicators. We focused on plants because they are among the most persistent organisms in terrestrial ecosystems. We used developmental instability as an indicator of plant population stress. Developmental instability is usually measured as deviations from symmetry, in traits that normally develop symmetrically. Thus, symmetry represents an idealized a priori phenotype. Stress presumably causes perturbations during development that may exceed the capacity of the organism to buffer or correct, resulting in developmental instability, and hence deviations from this ideal. Soil disturbance imposed by different land use patterns at Fort Benning, Georgia provided a gradient of soil disturbance. In 2000–2002 we collected plants from nine different sites representing three levels of disturbance. In addition, in 2002 we collected microhabitat data in 1 m quadrats surrounding each plant whose developmental stability we also assessed. The developmental instability of both species was influenced by land use patterns, whether or not the sites had been previously burned, and microhabitat variables. Developmental instability increased with soil disturbance, burning in the prior year, and as the percentage of bare ground increased around the target individual. To some extent, favorable microhabitat conditions reduced developmental instability in sites with medium and high soil disturbance, whereas unfavorable conditions at low soil disturbance sites increased developmental instability. As an indicator of community level stress, developmental instability is best used in conjunction with other indices of environmental quality.
Transport of l-methionine in human diploid fibroblast strain WI38

The transport of L-methionine in human diploid fibroblast strain WI38 was investigated. The uptake of L-methionine was measured in sparse cell cultures in a simple balanced salt solution buffered with either Tris.HCl of N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES). Similar results were obtained with these two buffers. Cultures were allowed to equilibrate with the buffered saline before transport was measured. The presence of glucose in the buffered saline results in a slight reduction in the initial rate of transport for the first 2 h of equilibration in buffered saline. L-Methionine is actively transported in WI38 by saturable, chemicallly specific mechanisms which are temperature, pH and, in part Na+ dependent, and are reactive with both L- and D-stereoisomers. Kinetic analysis of initial rates of transport at substrate concentrations from 0.0005 to 100 mM indicated the presence of two saturable transport systems. System 1 has an apparent KM of 21.7 micrometer and an apparent V of 3.57 nmol/mg per min. System 2 has an apparent KM of 547 micrometer and an apparent V of 22.6 nmol/mg per min. Kinetic analysis of initial rates of transport in Na+-free media or after treatment with ouabain suggested that system 1 is Na+ independent and that system 2 is Na+ dependent. Preloading of cells with unlabeled L-methionine greatly increases the initial rate of uptake. Efflux of transported methionine is temperature dependent, and is greatly increased in the presence of unlabeled L- or D-methionine or L-phenylalanine, but not in the presence of L-arginine. L-Methionine transport is strongly inhibited by other neutral amino acids, and is very weakly inhibited by dibasic amino acids, dicarboxylic amino acids, proline or glycine.
Traditional and accelerator mass spectrometry for quantitation of human folate pools

Folate is a structurally diverse family of molecules that occur in low concentrations in biological tissues and fluids and therefore present complex challenges to the analytical chemist. As a result, techniques that quantify folates in biological specimens have emerged as a high scientific priority. In this manuscript, isotopic methods using traditional mass spectrometry for the measurement of whole blood total folate and 14 C-accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) for human kinetic studies are presented. Additionally, recent developments with the intrinsic labeling of spinach folate from a [ 14 C]- para -aminobenzoic is discussed.
Who Voted For Smoot-Hawley?

Apart from the Fugitive Slave Act, the 1930 Smoot-Hawley tariff bill is probably the most infamous piece of legislation in U.S. history. Despite Smoot-Hawley's notoriety, explanations for the bill's passage are scarce. Two of the best-known accounts are the early analysis of E. E. Schattschneider-who saw the bill as the result of out-of-control log-rolling-and the more recent account of Robert Pastor-who believes that the Republicans capitalized on their landslide victory in the 1928 elections to carry out their long-standing commitment to raising tariff rates across the board.' Barry Eichengreen's recent paper provides a thoughtful analysis of these earlier explanations and concludes by identifying the economic coalition he believes was responsible for passing the bill.2 Assessing the validity of these accounts is difficult, however, without an analysis of the actual vote on the bill. This article presents a simple model of the vote that can be used to distinguish between the various explanations of why Smoot-Hawley passed. Our results from estimating this model indicate, rather surprisingly, that contrary to Eichengreen's suggestions-and contrary to much other recent work that shows economic interests to be of great importance in explaining votes in Congress-Pastor's argument that Smoot-Hawley was the result of the Republicans implementing their 1928 party platform appears to be correct. There is not much dispute that the Republicans ran a strongly protariff campaign in 1928. Herbert Hoover had long been in favor of a protective tariff and as Secretary of Commerce in the Harding and Coolidge Administrations had espoused the view that the United States should largely confine its imports to those products that could not be produced domestically.3 Although Hoover focused on increases in agricultural duties during the campaign, the discussion of tariff revision in the 1928 Republican platform entailed broader increases:
Integration of SAW RF Rx filter stacked on a transceiver chip in a QFN package

Enhanced integration of mobile phone components is driven by demands for reduced form factor and cost. Because SAW filters must be fabricated on piezoelectric substrates, they are difficult to monolithically integrate on semiconductor chips. Here we report on the integration of a compact wafer-scale packaged SAW filter stacked over a transceiver chip in a quad flat-pack no-lead (QFN) package. An integrated passive device interposer provided redistribution and matching. We demonstrated the successful integration of both EGSM and DCS filters in such modules. SAW compact models based on the coupling of modes model were developed to facilitate system design.
Candidemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Predictors of Mortality

Demographic information, risk factors, therapy, and outcome for all patients who had candidemia at Barnes Hospital, St. Louis, between 1 September 1988 and 1 September 1989 were retrospectively reviewed. One hundred six candidemic patients were identified, representing 0.5% of all medical and surgical discharges and 0.33% of total patient discharges. These percentages represent a 20-fold increase in the incidence of candidemia at our hospital in comparison with that during 1976-1979. Candida albicans was the most frequently isolated species (63%), followed by Candida tropicalis (17%), Candida glabrata (13%), Candida parapsilosis (6.5%), and Candida krusei (0.9%). Overall mortality was 57%, and 14 (23%) of 60 deaths occurred within 48 hours of the detection of candidemia. Mortality was associated with higher APACHE II scores (25 for nonsurvivors vs. 16 for survivors; P = .0001), the presence of a rapidly fatal underlying illness (P = .0009), and sustained positivity of blood cultures (P = .02). In cases of sustained candidemia, the isolation of non-albicans Candida species also correlated with increased mortality (8 of 8 vs. 10 of 21; P = .005). Thirty candidemic patients (28%) did not receive any antifungal therapy, and 19 (63%) of these untreated patients died. Eleven untreated patients (37%) survived without sequelae. There has been a marked increase in the incidence of candidemia in our institution that is associated with a high overall mortality. Candidemia lasting less than 24 hours was associated with a lower mortality than was that of longer duration. Severity of illness and duration of candidemia should be used as stratifying factors in prospective studies to determine optimum therapy.
Light and growth medium effect on Chlorella vulgaris biomass production

Abstract Algae can serve as feedstock for many high value bioproducts and biofuels production. The key to economic algal biomass production is to optimize the growth conditions. This study presents the effect of light wavelengths and growth medium composition on the growth of Chlorella vulgaris . Different light wavelengths [blue, clear (white), green, and red] were used to test their effect on algal growth. Growth media formulations were varied to optimize the growth media composition for maximized algal biomass production. Experimental study was conducted in three phases to evaluate: (1) the effect of different light wavelengths; (2) the effect of the recommended growth medium at 25%, 50%, and 100% of suggested composition; and (3) the effect of nutrient concentrations (nitrogen and phosphorous). The effect of these factors was evaluated through specific algal growth rates and volumetric biomass productivities during the entire growth period. In this study, blue light performed better (higher growth rate and biomass productivity) at longer growth periods (10–14 days) compared to clear, red and green light wavelengths. The growth media and nutrient effect results indicate that the growth of C. vulgaris is higher at 50% suggested growth media composition compared to 100% growth media composition which results in approximately 50% potential reduction in chemical costs for large scale algal production.
THE COINCIDENT COORDINATE METHOD OF DIMENSIONING AND TOLERANCING. PART I: PROBLEMS WITH SYSTEMS IN CURRENT USE

This series of articles (of which this one is the first) describes the coincident coordinate method of dimensioning and tolerancing (COCOM). COCOM is an alternative to both coordinate tolerancing and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing as described b..
Visible Flows: Contextual Integrity and the Design of Privacy Mechanisms on Social Network Sites

Social Network Sites have a number of well publicized privacy issues stemming from the overdisclosure of personal information. On one hand, users seem oblivious to their privacy, doing little to protect their personal data. On the other hand, there have been a number of privacy uproars and backlashes due to certain site features or behaviors. In this paper, we explore the privacy issues in social network sites using contextual integrity, a recently proposed privacy framework. We use the framework to highlight a number of privacy issues on social network sites, and to propose a set of design guidelines and potential solutions.
The Future of High Density Packaging

A general overview is presented of high density packaging methods earmarked for use with future leading edge integrated circuits. Pertinent design, performance and cost factors are compared relative to future circuit requirements.
Erysipelas in Caged Laying Chickens and Suspected Erysipeloid in Animal Caretakers

Erysipelas was diagnosed in 2 succeeding caged layer flocks housed in the same building and was characterized clinically by sudden death. At necropsy, lesions comprised generalized congestion, hemorrhages in the skeletal muscles and visceral organs, and swelling of liver, spleen, and kidney with or without large irregular zones of necrosis. Focal to massive hepatic necrosis was seen histologically with minimal or no inflammatory reaction. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae was cultured from internal organs of affected birds in both outbreaks. Medication with penicillin in the feed controlled the mortality, but relapse occurred after cessation of medication. Two attendants who handled the dead birds in this building developed a painful localized infection of the fingers that later spread to the regional lymph node. The infection responded when antibiotic therapy for erysipeloid was initiated.
Flutter-Boundary Identification for Time-Domain Computational Aeroelasticity

Three time-domain damping/frequency/flutter identification techniques are discussed; namely, the moving-block approach, the least-squares curve-fitting method, and a system-identification technique using an autoregressive moving-average model of the aeroelastic system. These methods are evaluated for use with time-intensive computational aeroelastic simulations, represented by the aeroelastic transient responses of a double-wedge airfoil and three-dimensional wing in hypersonic flow. The responses are generated using the NASA Langley CFL3D computational aeroelastic code, in which the aerodynamic loads are computed from the unsteady Navier-Stokes equations. In general, the methods agree well. The system-identification technique, however, provided quick damping and frequency estimates with minimal response-record length. In the present case, the computational cost required to generate each aeroelastic transient was reduced by 75%. Finally, a flutter margin for discrete-time systems, constructed using the autoregressive moving-average approach, is evaluated for use in the hypersonic flow regime for the first time. For the binary-mode case, the flutter margin exhibited a linear correlation with dynamic pressure, minimizing the number of responses required to locate flutter. However, the flutter margin was not linear for the multimode system, indicating that it does not perform as expected in all cases.