cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electron Ejection from Single Crystals Due to 1- to 10-keV Noble-Gas Ion Bombardment

The secondary-electron ejection coefficient $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ has been measured for the (110), (100), and (111) planes of Cu, Al, Ag, Ni, and Mo bombarded by the singly charged noble-gas ions ${\mathrm{Ne}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{Ar}}^{+}$, ${\mathrm{Kr}}^{+}$, and ${\mathrm{Xe}}^{+}$ in the energy range from 1 to 10 keV. Surfaces were kept clean to within a fraction of a monolayer contamination by the sputtering action of the incident ion beams. The ratios $\frac{{\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathrm{hkl}}}{{\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{{h}^{\ensuremath{'}}{k}^{\ensuremath{'}}{l}^{\ensuremath{'}}}}$ are quite constant, which would tend to indicate a theoretical model based on simple geometrical considerations of the opacity of the single-crystal planes. However, the fact that the ratios are relatively insensitive to the ion-bombardment energy indicates that a model based upon the transparency of the target is not sufficient to explain the phenomenon. The dependence of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ on the bombarding-ion mass is also explored.
Thermodynamics and surface properties of liquid Cu-B alloys

The study of the thermodynamic and the surface properties of liquid Cu–B alloys can help better understanding of a complex interfacial chemistry related to liquid Cu–brazes in contact with boride substrates. Despite a simplicity of the Cu–B phase diagram, only a few thermodynamic data are available in the literature, while in the case of the surface properties a complete lack of data is evident. The quasi-chemical approximation (QCA) for the regular solution has been applied to describe the mixing behaviour of liquid Cu–B alloys in terms of their thermodynamic and surface properties as well as the microscopic functions. In view of joining processes related to liquid Cu–brazes/solid boride systems a particular attention is paid to the surface properties of the Cu-rich part of the system and the calculated values are substantiated by the new surface tension experimental data of liquid Cu and Cu–10 at.% B alloy. The tests have been performed by the sessile-drop method under the same experimental conditions. Considering the experimental uncertainties, the effect of oxygen on the surface tension of liquid Cu and Cu–10 at.% B alloy has been analysed by simple model that combines the physical property data included in Butler’s equation with the oxygen solubility data and it gives the same results as Belton’s adsorption equation.
HYDRODYNAMICS OF MAGNETOFLUIDIZED ADMIXTURE BEDS

Hydrodynamic behavior of a magnetofluidized bed is investigated over a wide range of magnetic-field intensity values as a function of superficial air velocity. The bed comprises of different proportions of copper and iron particles and is contained in a Plexiglas column of 0.102 m internal diameter. The uniform constant magnetic field is created by a Helmholtz electromagnet. In particular, the bed pressure drop is measured as a function of superficial air velocity and characteristic bed voidage and fluidizing velocities are determined at minimum fluidization and bubbling bed conditions. These characteristic properties of the magnetically stabilized fiuidized beds are reported as a function of magnetic-field intensity, and are correlated by suitable expressions. These will be useful for prediction purposes related to design and operation.
EFFECT OF LINK PROTEIN CONCENTRATION ON ARTICULAR CARTILAGE PROTEOGLYCAN AGGREGATION

Previous work has shown that alterations in proteoglycan aggregates are among the first changes detected with aging, disuse, and degeneration of articular cartilage, yet the cause or causes of these alterations remain unknown. To determine if differences in link protein concentration can explain alterations in the assembly, size, and stability of articular cartilage proteoglycan aggregates, we isolated proteoglycan monomer (aggrecan) and link protein from adult bovine articular cartilage and then assembled proteoglycan aggregates from aggrecan and 0.8% hyaluronan relative to aggrecan weight, in the presence of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, and 20% concentrations of link protein relative to aggrecan weight. We determined the amount, sedimentation coefficient, and stability of the aggregates by analytical ultracentrifugation and measured their dimensions by electron microscopy with use of the monolayer technique. Increased aggregate size, as determined by ultracentrifugation, was directly correlated with an increased number of aggrecans per aggregate and with increased hyaluronan length, as determined by electron microscopy. The concentration of link protein significantly influenced aggregation: concentrations of 6-8% produced maximum aggregation, aggregate stability, and uniformity of aggrecan spacing; concentrations greater than 10% led to the formation of superaggregates (aggregates with sedimentation velocities greater than 100 S that may result from linking two or more hyaluronan filaments) but decreased aggregate stability; and concentrations of less than 4% link protein significantly decreased aggregation, the size and stability of aggregates, and the regularity of aggrecan spacing. The latter observations suggest that a decline in the concentration of link protein could decrease the organization and stability of the articular cartilage matrix.
Cichlid familial intrarelationships and the placement of the neotropical genus Cichla (Perciformes, Labroidei)

The current status of our understanding of cichlid intrafamilial relationships is investigated and novel data are presented resolving a basal trichotomy of the African and Neotropical radiations (Oliver, 1985). The claim that the African Cichlidae is non-monophyletic is supported and the little known Zairean genus Heterochromis is identified as the sistergroup of all other African and Neotropical Cichlidae combined. Throughout the study emphasis has been placed upon the resolution of the precise phylogenetic relationships of the enigmatic Neotropical genus, Cichla; a taxon whose placement has been thought critical for successful intra-familial analyses. Analysis of the evidence currently available argues strongly in favour of a close phylogenetic relationship between Cichla and the sisterpair, Crenicichla and Teleocichla. Given this phylogenetic scheme one of the most interesting aspects to arise is the striking morphological parallels between Cichla and many of its distantly related percoid relatives.
The neuroprotective effect of Activin A and B: implication for neurodegenerative diseases

Activin is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily which comprises a growing list of multifunctional proteins that function as modulators of cell proliferation, differentiation, hormone secretion and neuronal survival. This study examined the neuroprotective effect of both Activin A and B in serum withdrawal and oxidative stress apoptotic cellular models and investigated the expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins, which may account for the mechanism of Activin-induced neuroprotection. Here, we report that recombinant Activin A and B are neuroprotective against serum deprivation- and toxin- [either the parkinsonism-inducing neurotoxin, 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) or the peroxynitrite donor, 3-(4-morpholinyl) sydnonimine hydrochloride (SIN-1)] induced neuronal death in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time that transient transfection with Activin βA or βB significantly protect SH-SY5Y and rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells against serum withdrawal-induced apoptosis. This survival effect is mediated by the Bcl-2 family members and involves inhibition of caspase-3 activation; reduction of cleaved poly-ADP ribose polymerase and phosphorylated H2A.X protein levels and elevation of tyrosine hydroxylase expression. These results indicate that both Activin-A and -B share the potential to induce neuroprotective activity and thus may have positive impact on aging and neurodegenerative diseases to retard the accelerated rate of neuronal degeneration.
Miu Cost Tensions

Abstract Tensions are functions p: E→ℝ defined on the aic set E of a directed graph satisfying p(C +)=p(C –) for all cycles C in G, where C + and C – are the sels of arcs having the opposite and the same direction as C, respectively. A min cost tension minimizes the linear cost . We develop tsvo algorithms for finding a min cost tension: the negative cut algorithm and the shortest augmenting cut algorithm. Both, negative and shortest augmenting cuts, can be found by means of lower capacitated network flows. An application to totally unimodular restricted linear programs is sketched.
The Dependence of Large Flare Occurrence on the Magnetic Structure of Sunspots

We have studied 8 yr of active region observations from the United States Air Force/Mount Wilson data set, supplied by the NOAA World Data Center, to confirm the relation between δ spots and large flares. We found that after correcting some errors we were able to describe relationships among active region size, peak flare soft X-ray (SXR) flux (measured by GOES 1-8 A flux), and magnetic classification. We found the Solar Optical Observing Network magnetic classification to be reasonably accurate but its area measures to be inaccurate for many of the regions. This is due partly to transcription errors and partly to wrong correction for limb foreshortening. Errors could, however, be repaired by intercomparison of multiple observations. We confirm Kunzel's original idea that regions classified βγδ produce many more large flares than other regions of comparable size. Almost all substantial flares occurred in regions classified βγδ by the Air Force sites. Each region larger than 1000 μh and classified βγδ had nearly 40% probability of producing flares classified X1 or greater. Yet only a half-dozen of those, showing the "island delta" configuration, produced great activity. There is a general trend for large regions to produce large flares, but it is less significant than the dependence on magnetic class.
Statistical aspects of the washout of polydisperse aerosols

Abstract When considering the washout properties of polydisperse aerosols, one must specify whether the washout is in terms of number of aerosol particles, or in terms of length, area, or mass of aerosol. This follows from the fact that the effective washout coefficient is a function of the particle size distribution of the aerosol being removed. Sample calculations, using collection efficiencies covering particle radii in the range 0.001
The Lackawanna synclinorium, Pennsylvania: A salt-collapse structure, partially modified by thin-skinned folding

The Lackawanna synclinorium is a 110-km-long structural trough in the Appalachian foreland of northeastern Pennsylvania. In map view, its hinge displays a concave-to-the-foreland (i.e., concave toward the west) curve. Historically, the entire synclinorium was thought to be an Alleghanian thin-skinned contractional structure that formed similarly to the fold trains of the central Appalachian Valley and Ridge province. Interpretation of seismic reflection data across the structure, however, suggests that the synclinorium formed primarily by the removal of salt. The trend of the central and northern synclinorium reflects the location of Upper Silurian Salina salt. In the southern synclinorium, the salt-collapse structure translated northwestward over a thrust ramp joining detachments in the Cambrian Waynesboro Formation and the Salina Group. Interpretation of seismic reflection data also suggests that the basement-cover contact deepens westward and that basement-penetrating reverse faults and a Neoproterozoic rift basin are present beneath the synclinorium. We speculate that (1) partial barriers due to sedimentation and/or reef formation, and (2) localized subsidence over a Neoproterozoic rift zone may have formed a Late Silurian restricted basin that allowed thick accumulations of Salina salt. Regional-scale salt/shale flow and/or foreland-directed (i.e., westward) fluid migration during the Alleghanian orogeny might have removed as much as 700 m of salt. The removal of this salt caused the overlying strata to collapse downward and form the synclinorium. Only in the southern synclinorium was the collapse structure modified significantly by decollement tectonics. Thus, the map-view curvature of the structure reflects greater tectonic shortening and westward translation (toward the foreland) in the southern synclinorium compared to the northern synclinorium.
SU‐GG‐T‐550: Comparison of Electron Beam Characteristics Between Two Elekta™ LINAC Models

Purpose: To compare the electron beam (EB) characteristics of two Elekta™ linear accelerator(LINAC) models having significantly different treatment head designs. Method and Materials: An Elekta™ Synergy™ LINAC and a Synergy‐S™ (Beam Modulator™) are in clinical use at our institution. The Synergy™ treatment head design replaced upper jaws with 40 MLC leaf pairs (1‐cm wide projection at isocenter) followed by a backup diaphragm parallel to MLC leaves; lower conventional jaws are perpendicular to the MLC. Maximum field size at isocenter is 40cm×40cm. The Synergy‐S™ treatment head design replaced both upper and lower jaws with an 80 leaf (40 each side, 0.4cm leaf width at the isocenter) Beam Modulator™ and two pairs of fixed outer diaphragms. Maximum field size projected at isocenter is 21cm×16cm. Electron applicators are attached directly to the treatment head on both machines. A Wellhofer™ blue water phantom system was used to measure and compare EB PDD, off‐axis profiles and output factors for all EB energies on both machines at several different SSDs. Depths used for profile measurements were (1/2)R90, R90, R70, R50 and Rp+2cm. Field sizes for the output factor measurements are ineer, compromises were required to meet both PDD and flatness specifications. Synergy‐S™ EBs were higher energies (as shown by PDDs co2cm2–10cm2. Results: While beam energy matching was attempted by the eng mparisons) for same nominal energies. Off‐axis profiles for Synergy‐S™ were more rounded than Synergy™. No significant difference between in‐line and cross‐line profiles was noted for either machine. Bremsstrahlung properties of both machines are similar. Output factors for fields defined with 6cm2 applicator of Synergy‐S™ are about 4% higher. Conclusion:Electron beam characteristics of Synergy™ and Synergy‐S™ are significantly different. Special caution should be taken when using the treatment planning beam model for one system to estimate the dose distribution for the other system.
A Fourier-Chebyshev collocation method for the shallow water equations including shoreline runup

A solution method for the shallow water equations governing wave motions in the nearshore environment is presented. Spatial derivatives contained in these equations are computed using spectral collocation methods. A high-order time integration scheme is used to compute the time evolution of the velocities and water surface elevation given initial conditions. The model domain extends from the shoreline to a desired distance offshore and is periodic in the longshore direction. Properly posed boundary conditions for the governing equations are discussed. A curvilinear moving boundary condition is incorporated at the shoreline to account for wave runup. An absorbing-generating boundary is constructed offshore. The boundary treatments are tested using analytical and numerical results. The developed method is applied to the prediction of neutral stability boundaries and equilibrium amplitudes of subharmonic edge waves. Numerical results are compared to weakly nonlinear theory and are found to reproduce the theory very well.
Regional flow patterns during the serotonin-induced cardiogenic hypertensive chemoreflex

Small amounts of serotonin injected into the left atrium produce a hypertensive cardiogenic chemoreflex. The afferent pathway is through the vagus, while both the sympathetic and the vagus nerves participate in the efferent response. In 44 anaesthetised dogs, using flow probes, we studied the direction, extent and time sequence of the changes in aortic and regional blood flow during this hypertensive chemoreflex. After serotonin mean aortic pressure rose from 14.1 to 25.9 kPa. Coinciding with the early phase of hypertension, mean cardiac output decreased from 1.95 to 1.60 litre·min−1 which resulted in a significant increase in calculated systemic resistance (+49%). After the transient initial decline there was a rapid increase in cardiac output that virtually doubled in the following 10 s. Three types of organ system dependent flow patterns are readily distinguishable. Whereas no reflex vasoconstriction is detectable in the coronary arteries, both the renal and the mesenteric vascular circuits undergo profound reduction in blood flow. At rest flow in the left anterior descending coronary artery averaged 30 cm3·min−1 and peak flow achieved during the reflex increased to 164 cm3·min−1. Control renal and mesenteric flow averaged 170 and 195 cm3·min−1 respectively. At the time of maximal reflex vasoconstriction flow was reduced to 20 and 15 cm3·min−1 respectively resulting in a 13 and 18 fold increase in calculated resistance. Between the extremes represented by the non-responding coronary circulation and marked response in renal and mesenteric circulations, an immediate but minor vasoconstriction was also observed in the regional circuits of the carotid and femoral arteries. The observed reflexly mediated adjustments of flow resemble the response patterns that characterise flight or fight reaction and may represent an important type of survival reflex.
Macromolecular structure of coals. IV. Equilibrium swelling studies of coal networks subjected to various treatments

The macromolecular network structure of the organic phase of bituminous coals was investigated with equilibrium swelling experiments at 35° and 60°C. It was determined that an oxygen-methylation technique led to cleavage of hydrogen bonds and significant increase of swelling. Pyridine preextraction led to significant differences in swelling due to partial incorporation in the network structure.
What a Weberian approach to interests can contribute to economic sociology

This review essay addresses Richard Swedberg’s recent attempt to redefine the field of economic sociology. Grounding his position in Max Weber’s work, Swedberg advocates a type of economic sociology that not only focuses on social relations but also considers culture and interests, arguing that it is interests that drive action but that they are shaped by culture and enacted through social relations. We conclude our analysis with a consideration of the practical and empirical implications of this new approach for the study of economic life.
A prerequisite for meaningful state economic performance comparisons: Adjusting for population density

This paper examines labor productivity across the lower 48 states from 1993 to 2000, a period that coincides considerably with the longest economic expansion, as chronicled by the National Bureau of Economic Research to date. Our results suggest that states with high education levels, high population density, and low tax burden tend to have high labor productivity. Further analysis shows that differences in population density account for the largest share of the differences in labor productivity across states. Since population density is not generally considered a policy variable for most states, more meaningful state economic performance comparisons can be made by taking into consideration differences in state population densities. These findings should be of interest to economic development organizations and policy makers because labor productivity is the primary source of wages in the long run.
A new perceptual quality metric for video transrating for mobile devices

In video streaming over heterogeneous networks to mobile devices, severe bandwidth mismatch creates significant challenges in maintaining quality of experience for end users. The reduction of the video bit rate to address the problem of bandwidth mismatch is usually achieved by sacrificing the video quality. Most existing rate control approaches for transrating are based on the Mean Square Error (MSE) metric, which often leads to considerable degradation of the quality of user experience. This is due to the fact that the MSE seldom corresponds well to perceptual quality. This research explores the possibility of adapting the bit rate of video streams to suit varying network conditions while maintaining as high as possible the perceptual quality. In this paper we present a novel perceptual quality metric, Average Relative Perceptual Distortion (ARPD), based on the just noticeable distortion (JND) theory and developed a model to weight the perceptual importance of video components. We further applied this model into the development of a MPEG transrater that can requantize video components with proper weights in order to optimize the overall video perceptual quality. The results obtained from subjective tests conducted on a set of different video streams show the proposed scheme is able to improve the perceptual quality of video transrating, as well as maintain the consistency between the proposed metric ARPD and the subjective scores.
Heritage through oral history and archival images

Decrit l'effort cooperatif aux Etats-Unis portant sur la creation d'une collection d'expositions multimedia basees sur les ressources du web reunissant l'histoire orale et des images historiques pour dresser l'histoire complexe de la region de plateau du Colorado. Dans ce projet mene par une bibliotheque universitaire, les bibliotheques et les musees regionaux ont travaille en cooperation afin d'integrer les documents historiques et patrimoniaux de chacun des etablissements partenaires. De cette facon ils nous font connaitre l'histoire mouvementee de cette partie unique de l'Amerique.
Glucose uptake by chicken embryo hearts at various stages of development.

Abstract d -glucose, but not l -glucose, was found to readily enter the cells of 5- to 6-day chick embryo heart. This suggests the operation of a specific transport system for glucose. The rate of glucose uptake was found to decrease as development proceeds from 5 to 15 days of development, but no further decrease was found between 15 and 20 days. Uptake of glucose is a saturable process, from 5–6 days of embryonic life on. The large decrease in glucose uptake between 5 and 10 days of development is found to be associated with a fourfold increase in the apparent K m of the uptake process. From 10 days of development onward, the apparent K m remains about 40 m M . The rate of 2-deoxyglucose uptake also decreased from 5 to 15 days of embryonic life with no further decrease from 15 to 20 days. Glucose competitively inhibits the uptake of 2-deoxyglucose with a K i close to the K m for glucose uptake. The uptake of 2-deoxyglucose is stimulated by physiological levels of insulin as early as 5–6 days, although the extent to which insulin enhances uptake is not quite as great as at 15 days of development.
Development of baseline random vibration criteria for STS pallet payloads

This paper presents a statistical evaluation of measured random vibration response data obtained from the Office of Space Science-1 (OSS-1) pallet payload. The data were measured during the acoustic test simulation (September 1980) and the ascent phase of the flight of STS-3, Orbiter 102 (launched from the Kennedy Space Center on March 22, 1982). Acoustic test efficiency factors are evaluated based on the Dynamic, Acoustic and Thermal Environments (DATE) instrumentation as the source of the measured vibration data. Test efficiency correction to test data is applied in the extrapolation of non-DATE acoustic test data to increase sample population size for improved statistical evaluation. For baseline criteria evaluation and development, data are grouped in accordance with the payload 'zone' in which the component is mounted.
The nature of organizational search in high-technology markets

Previous research on buyer behavior in high technology markets has focused on specific outcomes (product adoption or rejection) as opposed to buyers’ underlying processes. The authors identify key ...
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of IGF-1 for delayed graft function: A human model to study postischemic ARF

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of IGF-1 for delayed graft function: A human model to study postischemic ARF. Background Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) has been shown in animal models to accelerate recovery from acute renal failure (ARF). However, a therapeutic trial of recombinant human (rh) IGF-1 in patients with ARF in the intensive care unit (ICU) failed to demonstrate efficacy [1]. Such patients often had multiple organ failure, recurrent renal injury, and a delay of several days before commencing treatment. Methods To circumvent these confounding factors, we randomized recipients of cadaveric renal allografts to immediate ( Results Creatinine clearance prior to commencing treatment was not significantly different between the two groups (8 ± 5mL/min for IGF-1 and 7 ± 6mL/min for placebo; P = 0.39). Inulin clearance on day 7, the primary outcome measure, was 21 ± 22mL/min and 19 ± 19mL/min in the IGF-1 ( N = 19) and placebo ( N = 24) groups, respectively ( P = 0.67). Secondary outcome measures, including nadir serum creatinines after 6weeks and need for dialysis, also did not differ between the two groups. We performed an analysis of statistical power using the placebo arm of the trial. Defining a twofold increase above placebo in day 7 glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as of meaningful biologic significance, we determined that the modest sample size used in the present study is adequate. Conclusion We, thus, conclude that ( 1 ) IGF-1 treatment is unlikely to benefit ARF and ( 2 ) the transplanted kidney is a good model to screen new agents for ARF that have demonstrated promise in animal trials.
Studies of Soiling and Detergency Part III: Detergency Experiments with Particulate Carbon Soils

A study was made of the desorption of carbon-14 labeled fatty acid, fatty alcohol, hydrocarbon, triglyceride, and hydrophobic and hydrophilic particulate carbon from cellulose, Nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate films into aqueous solutions of cationic, anionic, and nonionic deter-gents. Use of the polymers in film form as end-windows of a Geiger counter and labeling of the soils with radioactive carbon-14 allowed con-tinuous monitoring of the amount of sorbed material and normalized the usual complication of fiber and fabric geometry so that results ob-tained with different polymers could be directly compared. An excellent correlation was established be-tween fatty soil removal from polyethylene terephthalate film and fabric surfaces; thus re-sults obtained with film substrates have practical significance. Wash variables were carefully con-trolled and were altered one at a time to learn their effect on the soil-removal process. Results are discussed in terms of the possible mechanisms of soil removal.
Effects of Communicating Social Comparison Information on Risk Perceptions for Colorectal Cancer

People typically believe their health risks are lower than those of others (i.e., optimistic bias). We sought to increase perceptions of colorectal cancer (CRC) risk among adults aged 50-75 who were nonadherent to fecal occult screening (FOBT). 160 participants were randomized to receive information about the following: (1) general CRC risk factors (control), (2) general and tailored CRC risk factor feedback (absolute risk group), or (3) absolute CRC risk factor feedback plus CRC feedback as to how their total number of risk factors compared with that of others (absolute plus comparative risk group). Primary outcomes were perceived absolute and comparative risks, attitudinal ambivalence toward FOBT, and screening intentions; the secondary outcome was return of a completed FOBT. Participants who were told that they had more than the average number of risk factors believed their comparative CRC risk was higher than that of controls and of participants informed that they did not have more than the average number of risk factors. Perceived absolute risk did not vary by group. Participants who received social comparison risk factor feedback expressed greater intentions to screen via a FOBT than participants who received absolute risk feedback and controls; they also expressed less ambivalence about FOBT screening than controls. Although not statistically significant, participants informed they were at lower comparative risk had the highest proportion of completing an FOBT than any other group. These results suggest that providing social comparison CRC risk factor feedback can effectively reduce optimistic comparative risk perceptions. Contrary to findings of models of health behavior change, being informed that one does not have more than the average number of CRC risk factors, while resulting in lower evaluations of perceived comparative risk, did not result in higher ambivalence toward and lower intentions to screen using FOBT or the lowest rate of screening.
Effect of folic acid fortification of food on homocysteine-related mortality

Abstract Background In 1998, the Food and Drug Administration mandated the fortification of food products with folic acid. The effect of this rule on mortality associated with homocysteine levels in patients with coronary artery disease is unknown. Methods We studied 2481 consecutive patients with coronary artery disease who underwent coronary angiography between 1994 and 1999, and who had baseline homocysteine measurements and at least 2 years of follow-up. Patients were divided into prefortification (1994 to 1997, n=1595) and postfortification (1998 to 1999, n=886) groups, as well as classified based on baseline homocysteine levels (normal to low, intermediate, and high). Homocysteine levels were measured by fluorescence polarization immunoassay. Mortality was determined by telephone survey or from a national Social Security database or hospital records. Results After implementation of the fortification rule, median homocysteine levels declined from 13.8 to 12.3 μmol/L ( P 15 μmol/L) decreased from 41% (n = 650) to 28% (n = 249) ( P P = 0.006). There was no significant interaction between fortification status and homocysteine category with mortality ( P for interaction=0.85). Two-year mortality was reduced minimally (7.8% [n = 124] to 7.2% [n = 64]; RR=0.93; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.27; P = 0.63; adjusted RR=0.97; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.40), but was consistent with the expectation of a modest reduction in homocysteine levels. Conclusion Homocysteine is an independent, graded risk factor for mortality. Homocysteine levels decreased modestly after the fortification of food with folic acid, but the effects on mortality were minor and likely attributable to other factors, indicating the need for more aggressive measures to reduce homocysteine-associated cardiovascular risk.
Successful treatment of myasthenia gravis with tacrolimus.

Tacrolimus (FK-506) is a calcium-calcineurin inhibitor, successfully used in transplant recipients. We report the successful use of tacrolimus as a single immunosuppressant in a patient who had developed myasthenia gravis (MG) during interferon alpha treatment. In this case, the coexistence of hepatitis C and type 2 diabetes mellitus contraindicated the use of both steroids and azathioprine, and cyclosporine A, although effective, had induced renal failure. Tacrolimus proved to be effective in the treatment of MG, was not significantly hepatotoxic, and was less nephrotoxic than cyclosporine.
Hiatal hernia size is the dominant determinant of esophagitis presence and severity in gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Hiatal hernia size is the dominant determinant of esophagitis presence and severity in gastroesophageal reflux disease
Probing The Effects Of Engineered Disulfide Bonds In The Extracellular Loops Of The Porin OmpF

OmpF is a 16-stranded β-barrel porin functionally found in trimers in the outer membrane of Escherichia coli and involved in the entry of ions, nutrients and antibiotics. OmpF contains eight extracellular loops, six of which have no known function in channel activity. Previous studies have shown that OmpF channels close more readily in acidic pH conditions, and their open probability drops from ∼ 1.0 to ∼ 0.4 when the pH is switched from 7.0 to 4.0. However, this effect is abrogated when Loop 1, 7, or 8 is deleted, suggesting that these loops are involved in the pH sensitivity of the channel. To further test whether the movements of these loops participate in the pH response, double cysteine mutants have been engineered to form disulfide bonds and to tether these loops to themselves or to the barrel wall, based on predictions from the SSBOND program. A thiol quantification assay utilizing papain and L-BAPNA was used to confirm the presence of the disulfide bond in each mutant. Wild-type and mutant proteins were purified and inserted into planar lipid bilayers for electrophysiological measurements. Recordings were made in 1 M KCl buffer at pH 7 and pH 4 and +/− 90mV. The open probability was calculated to determine the effect of extracellular loops tethering on OmpF closure. Alterations to the disulfide bonds were performed with the addition of reducer or cross-linker either to the protein samples or directly to the bilayer chamber. Preliminary analysis of the some of the mutants indicates that disulfide bond tethering between Loop 7 and Loop 8 has affected the rate of OmpF closure in response to acidic conditions. Supported by grant # E-1597 from the Welch Foundation.
MID-LATITUDE MAGNETIC BAYS AND AURORAL ABSORPTION.

Abstract One hundred and thirty two simple isolated magnetic bay events at Fredericksburg, Virginia, were studied in terms of their H, Z and D components and found to fall into several distinct groups. Nighttime bays are sharp, highly correlated with 18 MHz auroral absorption at mid-latitude stations, and their H and Z components reverse sign near 2100 hr LT. Daytime bays are generally diffuse and only slightly correlated with mid-latitude riometer absorption. The high degree of correspondence between sharp bays and riometer absorption suggests that the same precipitating particles may be responsible for both.
Experimental Model for Activation of Genital Herpes Simplex Virus

We have been actively studying herpesvirus latency and the effect of antiviral agents on latent infections in vivo and in vitro. To establish a model of recurrent herpetic genital disease, we treated latently infected C57Bl/6 mice with immunosuppressive agents. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with cyclophosphamide and antilymphocyte serum and then were examined for reactivated virus or recurrent lesions. When latently infected mice were subjected to immunosuppression, neither recurrent lesions nor virus was detected at the site of primary infection. However, when mice were selected for immunosuppressive treatment by the presence of postinfection scars, recurrent disease was induced. The results point to the significance of local factors in the pathogenicity of recurrent herpetic genital disease in mice.
Measuring colorectal cancer care quality for the publicly insured in New York State.

The extent to which concordance with colorectal cancer treatment quality metrics varies by patient characteristics in the publicly insured is not well understood. Our objective was to evaluate the quality of colorectal cancer care for publicly insured residents of New York State (NYS). NYS cancer registry data were linked to Medicaid and Medicare claims and hospital discharge data. We identified colorectal cancer cases diagnosed from 2004 through 2006 and evaluated three treatment quality measures: adjuvant chemotherapy within 4 months of diagnosis for American Joint Cancer Committee (AJCC) stage III colon cancer, adjuvant radiation within 6 months of diagnosis for AJCC stage IIB or III rectal cancer, and adjuvant chemotherapy within 9 months of diagnosis for AJCC stage II–III rectal cancer. Concordance with guidelines was evaluated separately for Medicaid-enrollees under age 65 years and Medicare-enrollees aged 65–79 years. For adjuvant chemotherapy for colon cancer, 79.4% (274/345) of the Medicaid cohort and 71.8% (585/815) of the Medicare cohort were guideline concordant. For adjuvant radiation for rectal cancer, 72.3% (125/173) of the Medicaid cohort and 66.9% (206/308) of the Medicare cohort were concordant. For adjuvant chemotherapy for rectal cancer, 89.5% (238/266) of the Medicaid cohort and 76.0% (392/516) of the Medicare cohort were concordant. Younger age was associated with higher adjusted odds of concordance for all three measures in the Medicare cohort. Racial differences were not evident in either cohort. There is room for improvement in concordance with accepted metrics of cancer care quality. Feedback about performance may assist in targeting efforts to improve care.
Reproductive toxicity of 2-methoxyethanol applied dermally to occluded and nonoccluded sites in male rats

12-Methoxyethanol (2-ME), also known as Methyl Cellosolve, was applied on the backs of Sprague-Dawley male rats at dose levels of 0, 625, 1250, or 2500 mg/kg/day on occluded (covered) sites, and 0, 1250, 2500, or 5000 mg/kg/day on nonoccluded (uncovered) sites for 7 consecutive days. Because deaths occurred at a dose level of 2500 mg/kg/day among rats with occluded test sites, dosing of this group was discontinued after 5 days. The number and morphology of caudal epididymal sperm, number of testicular spermatids, and weights of reproductive organs were determined on Weeks 4, 7, 10, and 15; fertility was assessed on Weeks--1, 4, 7, 10, and 14. The effects of treatment were dose-related and included a decline in epididymal sperm count and testicular spermatid count, a reduction in weights of testes and epididymides, an increase in the number of sperm with abnormal morphology, and a reduction in fertility in rats exposed to 2-ME. The above effects were seen with or without occlusion, but they were more severe and recovery proceeded at a slower rate when the skin sites were covered.
Marketing Online Degree Programs: How Do Traditional-Residential Programs Compete?

ABSTRACT A total of 150 university Web sites were segregated into one of three groups: accredited residential, regionally accredited online, and nonaccredited online institutions. The promotional imagery, marketing messages and marketing themes found on the landing pages of each university program Web sites were analyzed for similarities and differences. A check sheet containing keywords was developed and as each Web page was analyzed, the results were recorded individually by two researchers. Intercoder reliability was confirmed with a Holsti correlation coefficient of 88%. At-test was used to assess variations of keywords across each category and a Chi-square was used to assess within group differences. The results show that accredited residential institutions are not leveraging clear advantages in order to differentiate themselves from online accredited and nonaccredited institutions. Benefits and themes featured on Web sites were remarkably similar, focusing on easily copied claims rather than buildin...
Quartz crystal microbalance study of endothelial cell number dependent differences in initial adhesion and steady-state behavior: Evidence for cell-cell cooperativity in initial adhesion and spreading

The quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) technique has been applied to the real time monitoring of endothelial cell (EC) adhesion and spreading on the QCM gold surface. We previously showed that the measured QCM Deltaf and DeltaR shifts were due to cells adhering to the gold crystal surface, requiring proteolytic enzyme treatment to be removed from the surface, in order for the Deltaf and DeltaR shifts to return to zero. In the present report, we demonstrate the quantitative dependence and saturation of the measured Deltaf and DeltaR shifts on the number of firmly attached ECs as measured by electronic counting of the cells. We demonstrate through a light microscope simulation experiment that the different Deltaf and DeltaR regions of the QCM temporal response curve correspond to the incident ECs contacting the surface, followed by their adhesion and spreading, which reflect cellular mass distribution and cytoskeletal viscoelasticity changes. Also, we demonstrate that the dose response curve of Deltaf and DeltaR values versus attached EC number is more sensitive and possesses less scatter for the hydrophilically treated surface compared to the native gold surface of the QCM. For both surfaces, a Deltaf and DeltaR versus trypsinized, attached EC number plot 1 h post-seeding exhibits a sigmoid curve shape whereas a similar plot 24 h post-seeding exhibits a hyperbolic curve shape. This number dependence suggests cell-cell cooperativity in the initial cell adhesion and spreading processes. These QCM data and our interpretation are corroborated by differences in cell appearance and spreading behavior we observed for ECs in a light microscope fluorescence simulation experiment of the cell density effect. For a stably attached EC monolayer at 24 h post-addition, steady-state Deltaf and DeltaR values are higher and exhibit saturation behavior for both the hydrophilically treated gold surface as compared to the untreated surface. The steady-state 24 h Deltaf and DeltaR values of stably attached ECs are shifted from the 1 h attached ECs. The 24 h values are characteristic of a more energy-dissipative structure. This is consistent with the time-dependent elaboration of surface contacts in anchorage-dependent ECs via the attachment of intregrins to underlying extracellular matrix. It is also in agreement with the known energy dissipation function of the ECs that cover the interior of blood vessels and are exposed to continuous pulsatile blood flow.
Colchicine and the blood brain barrier: Implications for Alzheimer patients

Colchicine is used in treating a vadety of disorders and is known to disrupt microtubules. Them is increasing evidence suggesting impairment of the microtubule system underlying Alzheimer disease. Thus, should colchicine cross the blood brain barrier (BBB), individuals undergoing treatment may be at increased risk for dementia. The permeability of the BBB to colchicine was investigated in rats following a single bolus injection into the carotid artery. There was negligible transport across the BBB in a single pass.
Determination of diquat and paraquat in water using high-performance liquid chromatography with confirmation by liquid chromatography-particle beam mass spectrometry

Abstract A method was developed for the extraction of diquat and paraquat from environmental water samples by ion-exchange column chromatography. Determinations were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection. The HPLC method was developed to be compatible with LC-MS techniques. Results were confirmed with LC-particle beam (electron ionization) MS, where a unique ionization process was observed. Recoveries in drinking water were over 75% for both diquat and paraquat spiked at concentrations of 5–10 μg l . The method presented is uniquely specific since a diode array UV spectrum is obtained as well as an particle beam mass spectrum, insuring correct identification and quantitation of diquat and paraquat.
Central Nervous System Involvement in the Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome

• A patient with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome developed progressive central nervous system involvement that did not improve despite discontinuation ofl-tryptophan therapy. Neurologic impairment was manifested initially by spastic monoparesis, which was improved by treatment with methylprednisolone and hydroxyurea. Recurrence of weakness was accompanied by gait ataxia, dysphagia, and complaints of a gradual decline in memory and concentration. Neuropsychological testing identified a broad pattern of cognitive deficits suggestive of a subcortical dementia, and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated multiple high-signal lesions in the white matter. Cognitive deficits appear to be underrecognized in patients with the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. The response of our patient's initial symptoms to corticosteroid therapy suggests a possible role for autoimmune mechanisms in the pathogenesis of central nervous system involvement in the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. Neuropsychological evaluation should be performed in patients with cognitive complaints to delineate the full spectrum of central nervous system impairment associated with the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome.
Switching & Frequency Conversion using Dual-Gate FETs

Dual-gate FETs may be used for a variety of circuits designed for non-amplifying functions, which have been performed in the past by two-terminal devices. Examples of dual-gate FET circuits described are: a high-speed broadband switch, a high-speed phase modulator, and a frequency up-converter.
Basic characteristics of high-frequency Stark-effect modulation of CO 2 lasers

The molecular Stark effect and its application to the modulation of infrared laser radiation have been investigated both theoretically and experimentally. Using a density matrix approach, a quantum mechanical description of the effect of a time-varying electric field on the absorption coefficient and refractive index of a molecular gas near an absorption line has been formulated. For modulation applications a quantity known as the "modulation depth" is of prime importance. Theoretical expressions for the frequency dependence of the modulation depth show that the response to the frequency of a time-varying Stark field is separated into a nondispersive and a dispersive region, depending on whether the modulating frequency is less than or greater than the homogeneous absorption linewidth. Experimental results showing nondispersive modulation at frequencies to 30 MHz are presented. In addition it is shown that the response of modulation depth to Stark field amplitude is separated into linear and nonlinear regions, the field at which nonlinearities begin being determined by the absorption spectrum of the molecule being used.
Beyond the Standard Model Higgs Physics using the ATLAS Experiment

With the discovery of a Higgs boson that has properties consistent with the Standard Model at the LHC, searches for additional Higgs bosons due to beyond the Standard Model physics, along with potential property measurements not consistent with the Standard Model, become more interesting and relevant. This article summarises the current searches for such new Higgs bosons performed with the ATLAS detector, using proton-proton collisions at centre of mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV at LHC. No significant deviations from the predictions of the Standard Model are observed in any search channel and hence limits on physics beyond the Standard Model are calculated.
Multiple Defects in FcεRI Signaling in Syk-Deficient Nonreleaser Basophils and IL-3-Induced Recovery of Syk Expression and Secretion

Human basophils respond to Ag-induced cross-linking of their high affinity IgE receptor, FceRI, by releasing histamine and other mediators from granules, producing IL-4 and other cytokines and, as shown in this study, by forming membrane ruffles and showing increased very late Ag-4 (VLA-4)-mediated adhesion to VCAM-1-expressing target cells. We have identified five blood donors whose basophils lack detectable levels of the FceRI-associated protein tyrosine kinase, Syk. Despite showing no obvious ultrastructural differences from normal basophils, nonreleaser basophils fail to form membrane ruffles, to show increased VLA-4-mediated adhesive activity, or to produce IL-4 in response to FceRI cross-linking. Although Syk protein levels are suppressed in basophils from all five donors, Syk mRNA is consistently present. Furthermore, culturing nonreleaser basophils for 4 days with IL-3 restores Syk protein expression and FceRI-mediated histamine release. Understanding the reversible suppression of Syk protein expression in nonreleaser basophils, and learning to replicate this property in patients with allergic inflammation could be a powerful and specific way to limit symptomatic disease.