cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Crystal Ball Data Acquisition System

The data acquisition system for the Crystal Ball project at SLAC is described. A PDP-11/t55 using RSX-11M connected to the SLAC Triplex is the basis of the system. A "physics pipeline" allows physicists to write their own equipment-monitoring or physics tasks which require event sampling. As well, an interactive analysis package (MULTI) is in the pipeline. Histogram collection and display on the PDP are implemented using the Triplex histogramming package. Various interactive event displays are also implemented.
SU‐E‐J‐79: Proton Density Weighted MRI for MR‐Guided Radiotherapy for Cervical Cancer

Purpose: For cervical cancer patients treated by MR‐guided HDR brachytherapy, the accuracy of radiation delivery depends on accurate localization of both tumors and the “tandem and ovoid” applicator. Although T2‐weighted (T2W) MRI has a good tumorcontrast, it is not a good choice for defining the applicator because of signal dropout and geometric distortion around the titanium applicator. In this study, we evaluated the possibility of using proton density weighted (PDW) MRI to improve the definition of the applicator. Methods: Both T2W and PDW images in the para‐sagittal plane were obtained from a 1.5T MRI scanner. For both images sets, in‐plane resolution was 1mm*1mm, spacing between slices was 0mm, TR was set to be between 3000ms and 6000ms, and FOV and the number of slices was adjusted based on the anatomy of individual patients. TE was 90ms and 5.5ms; slice thickness was 5mm and 2.5mm for T2W and PDW MRI respectively. PDW MRI had a smaller coverage in R/L direction. Images were sent to a workstation for treatment planning and another workstation after de‐identification for further image analysis. Results: Images from 10 patients were retrospectively reviewed. PDW MRI had a better definition of the applicator for all cases. A smaller ROI was placed around the tip of the tandem, which only included two structures: the tandem and the uterus. Histograms of signal intensity within the ROI showed that two peaks corresponding to the two structures were clearly separated in PDW MRI but not in T2W MRI. Conclusions: We showed that PDW MRI could provide a good visualization of the applicator. Therefore, we recommend adding PDW MRI to the imaging protocol for MR‐guided radiotherapy for cervical cancer. This will enable us to precisely localize both tumors and the applicator, which is essential for ensuring dose delivery accuracy.
Spatial patterns of inorganic N, P availability, and organic C in relation to soil disturbance: a chronosequence analysis

Abstract This study quantified intersite variation and spatial pattern in organic C content, total inorganic N and extractable inorganic P in soils among six sites constituting a post-disturbance chronosequence in southwestern Ohio, USA. The study sites included an agricultural field with a 25 + yr history of soybean cropping (chronic disturbance), a site which had been stripped of its surface soil and reclaimed using post-mining procedures (pseudo-stripmine, acute disturbance), 5 and 10 year old fields, a 25–30 year old prairie restoration, and an undisturbed, mature forest. All six sites were on soils with similar texture and classification. With the exception of the active soybean field, P and organic C increased with time since disturbance. Inorganic N was high in the soybean field and mature forest and low in the other four sites, with no consistent temporal trend. Spatial dependence of inorganic N and organic C were high in most sites and decreased with time since disturbance. Spatial dependence of P was lower than those of inorganic N and organic C and did not exhibit any clear temporal trend. Each nutrient exhibited its own unique spatial and temporal pattern of variation, and correlations among resources were weak. The results emphasize the need for quantifying and understanding spatial patterns as a prerequisite for developing restoration planting protocols or operationalizing mechanistic models predicting vegetation change in specific study sites.
Efficient numerical solution of two dimensional compressible fluid flow fields using a cell centered finite volume technique

Nomenclature A general two dimensional flow solver is presented for internal or external compressible flow fields with or without embedded shocks. Options allow for the solution of the steady or unsteady Euler, thin layer or full Reynolds averaged Navier Stokes equations. A cell centered conservative finite volume technique is utilized with a constant artificial viscosity coefficient for inviscid flows and a variable artificial viscosity for viscous flows or a TVD option for strong shocks. The time stepping is done by a hybrid mult~-stage Runge-Kutta scheme. Acceleration of the solution is accomplished through local time stepping, enthalpy damping, and implicit residual averaging. Good agreement is found for comparison of the numerical method with exact analytical solutions and experimental data. a speed of sound e total energy h enthalpy J Jacobian matrix k thermal conductivity 1 mixing length p pressure Q physical flux <In normal velocity u,v velocity components t time x,y cartesian coordinates e coefficient or artificial dissipation y ratio of specific heats 1C von Karman constant e,17 transformed coordinates p density a,'T stress J.L viscosity coefficient n limited function "'Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, Director Computational Fluid Dynamics Laboratory, Member AIAA ......Graduate Research Assistant, Student Member AIAA
Electrical properties and degradation phenomena of glass-doped ZnO chip varistors

Abstract Several glass additives with compositions in the PbOB2O3ZnOSiO2 system were applied to multilayer type ZnO ceramic chip varistors which had been manufactured using the ceramic green-sheet lamination technique. Measurements of capacitance-voltage (C-V), current voltage (I-V) and degradation behavior, as well as microstructural observations, were performed. It was found that specimens into which the above-mentioned glasses were incorporated had good surgewithstanding capability, with the exception of samples including ZnBSi glass. The electrical properties of speciments deteriorated gradually with increasing glass content. The addition of glasses improved the thermal stability of ZnO varistors except for G4 glass-doped sample (60 w/oPbO−12 w/oB2O3−605w/oZnO). Stable varistors with good nonlinearity parameters were obtained by combining the glass compositions and other additives.
Cilostazol improves the response to ischemia in diabetic mice by a mechanism dependent on PPARγ

Abstract Cilostazol is effective for the treatment of peripheral ischemia. This compound has several beneficial effects on platelet aggregation, serum lipids and endothelial cells, and we recently found that it enhances collateral blood flow in the ischemic hind limbs of mice. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ, a receptor for thiazolidinediones, plays a role in angiogenesis. The aim of this work was to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms and effects of cilostazol in a model of peripheral ischemia in diabetic mice. We induced diabetes in mice by streptozotocin (STZ) administration and studied ischemia-induced angiogenesis in the ischemic hind limbs of cilostazol-treated and untreated control mice. We found that perfusion recovery was significantly improved in treated compared with control diabetic mice. Interestingly, we found that the expression of PPARγ is reduced in ischemic tissues of diabetic mice. Furthermore, we discovered that local inhibition of the activity of this nuclear receptor decreased the angiogenic response to cilostazol treatment. Finally, we noted that this phenomenon is dependent on VEGF and modulated by PPARγ. Cilostazol administration enhances collateral blood flow in the ischemic hind limbs of STZ-induced diabetic mice through a PPARγ-dependent mechanism.
Synthesis and characterization of [Pt(chxn)2][Pt(chxn)2I2)I4. A quasi-one-dimensional material at the CDW/SDW phase boundary

Abstract The pseudo-one-dimensional solid [Pt(chxn) 2 ][Pt(chxn) 2 I 2 )]I 4 (chxn=1R,2R-diaminocyclohexane) was synthesized and characterized. X-ray diffraction shows that the MX chain portion of the structure is a very weak charge-density-wave (CDW). X-ray diffraction also reveals that this material is non-stoichiometric, resulting in intrinsic defects in the chains. Magnetic susceptibility indicates a weak magnetic system that is antiferromagnetically coupled. Absorption spectroscopy shows a low-energy band edge, and a broad intergap absorption that grows with photoexcitation at room temperature. These results support a structure composed of SDW segments embedded in a weak CDW host chain.
ASIAN MONETARY COOPERATION: PERSPECTIVES FROM THE OPTIMUM CURRENCY AREA ANALYSIS

We argue that a number of recent studies have overstated the economic case for the creation of a common Asian currency by focusing on only a few of the relevant criteria. We also conclude that endogenous forces are unlikely to be sufficiently strong that adopting a common currency would quickly turn Asia into an optimum currency area (OCA) as some have suggested. We argue that more attention needs to be devoted to issues of monetary, fiscal, and exchange rate coordination under a fairly flexible exchange rate system and that OCA analysis is a valuable framework for analyzing such issues.
N(2P) in the dayglow: Measurement and theory

During the ATLAS-1 mission, the first dayglow altitude profiles were obtained of the N(2P) emission at 3466 A. These observations were made in the sunlit thermosphere using the Imaging Spectrometric Observatory. As all previous work on this emission has been done under auroral conditions, this study represents the first examination of the photochemical sources and sinks of N(2P) in the normal daytime thermospheric, with comparison with measurements. We find that the observations are explained by a model in which the major source is photodissociation of N2, and quenching by O is the principal low-altitude loss process, with radiative decay to N(2D) dominating above 200 km. As the dominant loss processes are likely to result in the production of N(2D), N(2P) could be a moderate source of N(2D) and may be a factor to be taken into consideration in modeling NO.
Renal masses: quantitative analysis of enhancement with signal intensity measurements versus qualitative analysis of enhancement with image subtraction for diagnosing malignancy at MR imaging.

PURPOSE: To retrospectively compare quantitative and qualitative methods of assessing magnetic resonance (MR) imaging contrast enhancement as the basis for diagnosing renal malignancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MR imaging was performed by using a gadolinium-enhanced breath-hold fat-suppressed three-dimensional T1-weighted gradient-echo sequence in 71 patients (48 men and 23 women; mean age, 62 years; age range, 26–87 years) with 93 renal lesions for which pathologic correlation was available. For quantitative measurements of enhancement, the relative increase in signal intensity values was measured by one investigator with manually defined regions of interest, and the threshold of an increase of 15% or greater was used to distinguish malignant from benign masses. For qualitative assessment, two investigators independently reviewed the subtracted images of all lesions and subjectively determined whether enhancement was present or absent. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value...
The effect of self-regulatory treatment on pain behavior in chronic headache

Abstract Thirty-one migraine, 27 mixed and 28 tension headache patients completed a global, retrospective inventory of headache behavior (avoidance, verbal and non-verbal complaint, and medication consumption) and monitored headache activity and concomitant pain-related behavior for 4 weeks before and after participating in self-regulatory treatment. Using the weekly behavior diaries as a reliability check for the global inventory, we found significant, but low, correlations between the two measures. Significant reductions occurred in all four types of behavior, pre- to post-treatment. Avoidance and verbal complaint behavior interacted with treatment outcome and headache diagnosis. The results are discussed in the context of prevailing ideas concerning the relationship between headache activity and pain-related behavior.
Spatial scaling of Arctic sea ice deformation

[1] Arctic sea ice deformation arises from spatial gradients in the ice velocity field. This deformation occurs across a wide range of spatial scales, from meters to thousands of kilometers. We analyze 7 years of sea ice deformation data from the RADARSAT Geophysical Processor System (RGPS) covering the western Arctic Ocean. We find that the mean deformation rate is related to the spatial scale over which it is measured according to a power law with exponent ∼−0.2, over a scale range from 10 to 1000 km (e.g., deformation rate doubles for a 30-fold reduction in scale). Both the exponent and the deformation rate have distinct annual cycles. The exponent becomes more negative in summer as the ice pack weakens and internal stresses are not as readily transmitted over long distances. The deformation rate reaches a minimum in late winter when the ice pack is strongest. The deformation also exhibits considerable localization, in which the largest deformation rates are confined to smaller and smaller areas as the scale of measurement decreases. This supports a model for sea ice based on granular or fracture mechanics. The scaling exponent in the power law relationship tends to be larger in magnitude where the concentration of multiyear ice is low, consistent with a thinner and weaker ice pack. With decreasing multiyear ice in the Arctic and a thinning ice pack, an increase in the deformation rate has already been documented (from buoy data). However, the net effect of several deformation/thickness feedbacks is still uncertain.
Photochemically deposited contaminant film effects

Perhaps the most pernicious types of spacecraft contaminants are photochemically deposited ('solarized') molecular films. The magnitudes of the effects of these films on thermal control and solar photovoltaic surfaces are difficult to predict with high reliability. This uncertainty has two primary origins. Spacecraft contaminant films are not made of pure, well characterized materials, and, once they are deposited, they can become further darkened by energetic radiation in the natural space environment. This paper presents the results of a laboratory study aimed at gaining a greater understanding of the impact photochemical deposition on spacecraft and other optics. Photodeposition results and analyses of the ultraviolet and visible transmission spectra of films from several organic precursor molecules are reported. The major differences among contaminant film types have been found to be in the initial photodeposition propensity, rather than in the ultimate optical properties of the films. Models of the effects of the photodeposits on thermal control surfaces are presented.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Random effects regression models for trends in standardised mortality ratios

Objectives Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) play an important role in the epidemiological literature, particularly in evaluations of occupational hazards. While some authors have argued that comparisons of SMRs should be avoided, many investigators find such analyses appealing particularly when data are sparse. For example, calendar period-specific SMRs often are examined to identify emerging problems or to assess whether a hazard that impacted death rates in the past has abated. However, because the distribution of people with respect to age usually changes as calendar time advances, comparisons of SMRs across calendar periods can produce misleading results. Methods We propose a random effects model to reduce the potential bias arising from comparisons of SMRs. This approach is illustrated using data from a study of workers employed at the Department of Energy9s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Results When there is homogeneity across strata of covariates in the ratio of death rates in the target population to that in the reference population, the proposed model yields results equivalent to those obtained by a classical analysis of SMRs. However, as evidence against such homogeneity increases, the model yields a random effects version of SMRs for which patterns will conform better to those obtained from an internal analysis of rate ratios. Conclusions The proposed random effects model can reduce potential bias arising in the comparisons of SMRs.
Assessment of heterochiral and homochiral glycine adlayers on Cu(1 1 0) using density functional theory

Abstract We have used plane wave density functional theory (DFT) to determine the structure and relative energy of two possible (3 × 2) glycine adlayers on Cu(1 1 0), namely, heterochiral and homochiral adlayers. Our calculated heterochiral structure is in quantitative agreement with previous X-ray photoelectron diffraction experiments, but our calculated homochiral structure is inconsistent with this experimental data. Our calculations also indicate that the heterochiral (3 × 2) adlayer is significantly more energetically stable than the homochiral (3 × 2) adlayer. Our results indicate that large regions of the homochiral (3 × 2) glycine adlayer are unlikely to exist on Cu(1 1 0).
In Vivo Activation of Azipropofol Prolongs Anesthesia and Reveals Synaptic Targets

Abstract General anesthetic photolabels have been instrumental in discovering and confirming protein binding partners and binding sites of these promiscuous ligands. We report the in vivo photoactivation of meta-azipropofol, a potent analog of propofol, in Xenopus laevis tadpoles. Covalent adduction of meta-azipropofol in vivo prolongs the primary pharmacologic effect of general anesthetics in a behavioral phenotype we termed “optoanesthesia.” Coupling this behavior with a tritiated probe, we performed unbiased, time-resolved gel proteomics to identify neuronal targets of meta-azipropofol in vivo. We have identified synaptic binding partners, such as synaptosomal-associated protein 25, as well as voltage-dependent anion channels as potential facilitators of the general anesthetic state. Pairing behavioral phenotypes elicited by the activation of efficacious photolabels in vivo with time-resolved proteomics provides a novel approach to investigate molecular mechanisms of general anesthetics.
Parallel implementation of a particle simulation for modeling rarefied gas dynamic flow

When the conditions of flow are rarefied and hypersonic, a more suitable alternative to the use of the Navier-Stokes equations for developing a numerical solution is the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo method (DSMC), a method of simulation which employs a large number of particles in modeling a rarefied gas. The performance of a parallel DSMC code developed for the Intel iPSC/860 Touchstone Gamma prototype computer is studied and the scaleup is found to be very nearly over the range of 16-128 processors.
Escherichia coli disinfection by electrohydraulic discharges.

We study the survival of single-strain Escherichia coli colonies in aqueous media exposed to 5.5 kV, 90 kA electrohydraulic discharges (EHD). The probability of survival (P_n) of a 4 × 10^7 cfu mL^(-1) E. coli population after n consecutive EHDs follows a logit distribution: ln(P_n/100 − P_n) = 1.329 − 1.579 ln n with r^2 = 0.993 that corresponds to lethal doses of LD_(50) = 2.2 and LD_(90) = 10.5 EHDs. Considering that the reactor is thoroughly mixed during each discharge and that LD_(50) = 0.9 values are nearly independent of E. coli concentrations in the range of 2 × 10^3 ≤ E. coli/cfu mL^(-1) ≤ 3 × 10^6, we ascribe the nonexponential P_n decay of single-strain E. coli colonies to a shielding phenomenon where inactive cells protect the successively smaller numbers of viable cells in the EHD. The qualitatively similar concentration dependence observed for survival under 254 nm of radiation, in contrast with the lower resistance of denser colonies to 20 kHz power ultrasound and the delayed onset of extracellular β-d-galactosidase activity in bacterial populations already decimated by EHDs, support the view that UV radiation is the dominant disinfection agent generated by electrohydraulic discharges.
Learning self-punitive running

Rats were either punished or not punished near the goal box on the day following runway escape training. Running speed increased for punished animals and decreased for non-punished controls. It is suggested that self-punitive running is learned during extinction-with-punishment.
Heterojunction discontinuites: The current position

This is the fourth in a series of letters describing the controversy about heterojunction band structure and presenting the arguments for and against the published models. The present letter describes an analytic proof for the continuous intrinsic level hypothesis and summarizes the latest experimental evidence in its favor.
mei-3, a recombination and repair gene of Neurospora crassa, encodes a RecA-like protein

Neurospora crassa mei-3 is a mutant which exhibits meiotic and mitotic defects and mutagen sensitivity. Its defect is believed to be in recombination and repair. We have cloned the mei-3 gene from a N. crassa cosmid library of genomic DNA. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis determined the location of the cloned fragment was on chromosome one in approximately the same position that was previously reported for mei-3 by classical genetic methods. Deletion analysis showed the approximate coding region of mei-3 on the cloned genomic fragment. Northern blot analysis identified a 900-bp transcript. Sequencing revealed a 798-bp open reading frame with high coding preference which could encode a protein having a molecular weight of approximately 29,000. The predicted protein product of mei-3 has significant identity to the Rad51 and Dmc1 proteins from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The mei-3 gene and both yeast genes have significant primary sequence homology with RecA, a recombination protein identified in Escherichia coli. The results suggest RecA-like proteins involved in DNA recombination and repair are highly conserved in eukaryotes.
On being attached

We often use the term “attachment” to describe our emotional connectedness to objects in the world. We become attached to our careers, to our homes, to certain ideas, and perhaps most importantly, to other people. Interestingly, despite its import and ubiquity in our everyday lives, the topic of attachment per se has been largely ignored in the philosophy literature. I address this lacuna by identifying (a type of) attachment as a rich “mode of mattering” that can help to inform certain aspects of agency and emotion. First, drawing on insights from Ancient stoicism and developmental and clinical psychology, I suggest that the relevant form of attachment involves a felt need for its object and a particular relationship between the object and the attached agent’s sense of security. I then argue that these features serve to distinguish the attitude from the more philosophically familiar notion of caring. Finally, I show that recognizing this form of attachment as a distinct mode of mattering has important implications for understanding grief.
ISOLATION OF LYSOSOMES FROM SKIN FIBROBLASTS OF NORMAL AND CYSTINOTIC INVIDUALS

The biochemical lesion in cystinotic cells resulting in lysosomal storage of cystine is not yet known. The lysosomal metabolism of cystine should be investigated in isolated lysosomes. In whole unfractionated cells, the cystine metabolism was found to be unchanged /Patrick 1962, Schneider et al. 1967/.
Interaction with the lower ionosphere of electromagnetic pulses from lightning: Heating, attachment, and ionization

A Boltzmann formulation of the electron distribution function and Maxwell's equations for the EM fields are used to simulate the interaction of lightning radiated EM pulses with the lower ionosphere. Ionization and dissociative attachment induced by the heated electrons cause significant changes in the local electron density, N(e). Due to 'slow' field changes of typical lightning EM pulses over time scales of tens of microsec, the distribution function follows the quasi-equilibrium solution of the Boltzmann equation in the altitude range of interest (70 to 100 km). The EM pulse is simulated as a planar 100 microsec long single period oscillation of a 10 kHz wave injected at 70 km. Under nighttime conditions, individual pulses of intensity 10-20 V/m (normalized to 100 km horizontal distance) produce changes in N(e) of 1-30 percent while a sequence of pulses leads to strong modification of N(e) at altitudes less than 95 km. The N(e) changes produce a 'sharpening' of the lower ionospheric boundary by causing a reduction in electron density at 75-85 km (due to attachment) and a substantial increase at 85-95 km (due to ionization) (e.g., the scale height decreases by a factor of about 2 at about 85 km for a single 20 V/m EM pulse). No substantial N(e) changes occur during daytime.
Nitric oxide in cancer and chemoprevention.

Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) is a key molecule involved in many physiological functions. However, evidence is accumulating that sustained high levels of NO over extended periods of time contribute to carcinogenesis. This article reviews recent data and outlines a dual role of NO in animal carcinogenesis. Following an inhibition of NO production, some studies find a protection, while others find an exacerbation of tumorigenesis. These studies reflect the importance of (i) choosing the appropriate compound for NO inhibition; and (ii) genetic background, target tissue, levels of NO, and surrounding free radicals in the overall affects of NO on the tumor growth. These findings highlight the importance of further study of the use of NO inhibitors to inhibit human carcinogenesis.
CONSTRUCT VALIDATION OF A METHOD FOR DEFINING EFFICIENT AND INEFFICIENT COPERS

Some validity for a procedure to identify efficient and inefficient copers was evident in this study. 36 efficient copers (defined by high stress scores and low anxiety scores) dealt with life stress primarily by trying to analyze their problems and take direct action. 50 inefficient copers (high stress and high anxiety scores) stopped functioning well, sought the support of others and, if male, resorted to drugs, alcohol, or sex as a source of comfort.
Microwave-hydrothermal processing of layered anion exchangers

We have compared the microwave-hydrothermal (M-H) processing with conventional hydrothermal (C-H) processing in the preparation of two layered anion exchangers, i.e., Mg3Al(OH)8NO3 · nH2O and Ni1-xZn2x(OH)2(CH3COO)2x · nH2O. Both these phases can be crystallized more rapidly (an order of magnitude) under M-H processing compared to C-H processing. The above layered mixed basic salt of Ni and Zn was found to exhibit very high selectivity for PO4= (Kd = 15,000). Its order of selectivity for various anions in the presence of 0.1 N NaC1 (ratio of C1- to anion in question is 100) increases as follows: PO4= ≫ SO4 = > NO3-.
Congenital Arthrogryposis: An Extension of the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 Microdeletion Syndrome?

The proximal 15q11–q13 region contains 5 breakpoints (BP1–BP5). The BP1-BP2 region spans approximately 500 kb and contains four evolutionarily conserved genes. The genes in this region are known to play a role in central nervous system development and/or function. Microdeletions within the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 region have been reported in patients with neurological dysfunction, developmental delays, behavioral problems, and dysmorphic features. We report two unrelated subjects with the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 microdeletion and presenting with congenital arthrogryposis, a feature which has not been previously reported as part of this newly recognized microdeletion syndrome. While arthrogryposis seen in these two subjects may be coincidental, we propose that congenital arthrogryposis may result from neurological dysfunction and involvement of the microdeletion of the 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 region, further expanding the phenotype of this microdeletion syndrome. We encourage others to report patients with this chromosome microdeletion and neurological findings to further characterize the clinical phenotype.
Susceptibility of Propionibacterium acnes to Seventeen Antibiotics

Abstract The in vitro susceptibility of 96 isolates of Propionibacterium acnes to 17 antibiotics was determined by utilizing an agar dilution technique. With the exception of the aminoglycosides, these organisms are susceptible to virtually all of the commonly used antimicrobial agents.
A Comparison of Sediment Microbial Communities Associated with Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora in Two Brackish Wetlands of New Jersey

The extensive spread ofPhragmites australis throughout brackish marshes on the East Coast of the United States is a major factor governing management and restoration decisions because it is assumed that biogeochemical functions are altered by the invasion. Microbial activity is important in providing wetland biogeochemical functions such as carbon and nitrogen cycling, but there is little known about sediment microbial communities inPhragmites marshes. Microbial populations associated with invasivePhragmites vegetation and with native salt marsh cordgrass,Spartina alterniflora, may differ in the relative abundance of microbial taxa (community structure) and in the ability of this biota to decompose organic substrates (community biogeochemical function). This study compares sediment microbial communities associated withPhragmites andSpartina vegetation in an undisturbed brackish marsh near Tuckerton, New Jersey (MUL), and in a brackish marsh in the anthropogenically affected Hackensack meadowlands (SMC). We use phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis and enzymataic activity to profile sediment microbial communities associated with both plants in each site. Sediment analyses include bulk density, total organic matter, and root biomass. PLFA profiles indicate that the microbial communities differ between sites with the undisturbed site exhibiting greater fatty acid richness (62 PLFA recovered from MUL versus 38 from SMC). Activity of the 5 enzymes analyzed (β-glucosidase, acid phosphatase, chitobiase, and 2 oxidases) was higher in the undisturbed site. Differences between vegetation species as measured by Principal Components Analysis were significantly greater at the undisturbed MUL site than at SMC, and patterns of enzyme activity and PLFAs did not correspond to patterns of root biomass. We suggest that in natural wetland sediments, macrophyte rhizosphere effects influence the community composition of sediment microbial populations. Physical and chemical site disturbances may impose limits on these rhizosphere effects, decreasing sediment microbial diversity and potentially, microbial biogeochemical functions.
Functional performance status of hematopoietic SCT recipients in the sub-acute phase of recovery.

This study assessed the functional capacity of sub-acute SCT recipients using validated physical performance tests, including 6-min walk distance, repeated sit-to-stand time and 50-ft walk time, and compared these outcomes with those reported for a heterogeneous oncology population. The medical records of 80 consecutive sub-acute SCT recipients not receiving corticosteroids were retrospectively reviewed for demographic, medical and anthropometric information, and outcomes for these physical performance tests administered at the time of initial physiotherapy evaluation. Measures of central tendency, 95% confidence intervals, unpaired t-tests and correlation coefficients were calculated using a SPSS statistical package. SCT recipients completed the 50-ft walk in 10.66±4.43 s, repeated sit-to-stand trial in 4.16±1.82 s and walked 400.2 m in 6 min. For the timed tests, SCT recipients were approximately twice as fast as a heterogeneous group of oncology patients and walked approximately 50% further in 6 min. No overlap in the 95% confidence intervals for the two groups was observed for any of the tests. These results (1) suggest that reference values describing the functional capacity of a heterogeneous oncology population underestimate the functional capacity of SCT recipients and (2) provide clinically useful reference values for assessing functional capacity of sub-acute SCT recipients referred for physiotherapy.
Catalytic consequences of hydroxyl group location on the rate and mechanism of parallel dehydration reactions of ethanol over acidic zeolites

Abstract The effects of zeolite topology on the dehydration of oxygen-containing molecules were probed in steady-state and isotopic chemical reactions of ethanol over proton-form zeolite materials (FER, MFI and MOR) at low temperatures (368–409 K). The measured rate of diethyl ether (DEE) synthesis was largely independent of ethanol partial pressure on all proton-form zeolites (FER, MFI, and MOR), indicating that DEE formation involves the activation of ethanol dimers. The measured rate of DEE synthesis over H-FER increased with increasing ethylene pressure in experiments done with ethanol–ethylene mixtures, reflecting the weaker adsorption of ethanol dimers on the FER framework compared to that on MFI and MOR materials, thereby resulting in the co-adsorption and reaction of ethylene with ethanol on FER materials. Ethylene production was only observed on H-MOR because the small eight-membered ring side pockets protect ethanol monomers from forming bulky ethanol dimers. Secondary kinetic isotopic effects measured for ethylene synthesis rates using C 2 D 5 OH reactants imply that the kinetically relevant step involves the cleavage of C–O bonds via a carbenium-ion transition state.
Light-dependent, Dark-promoted Interaction between Arabidopsis Cryptochrome 1 and Phytochrome B Proteins

Plant photoreceptors transduce environmental light cues to downstream signaling pathways, regulating a wide array of processes during growth and development. Two major plant photoreceptors with critical roles in photomorphogenesis are phytochrome B (phyB), a red/far-red absorbing photoreceptor, and cryptochrome 1 (CRY1), a UV-A/blue photoreceptor. Despite substantial genetic evidence for cross-talk between phyB and CRY1 pathways, a direct interaction between these proteins has not been observed. Here, we report that Arabidopsis phyB interacts directly with CRY1 in a light-dependent interaction. Surprisingly, the interaction is light-dissociated; CRY1 interacts specifically with the dark/far-red (Pr) state of phyB, but not with the red light-activated (Pfr) or the chromophore unconjugated form of the enzyme. The interaction is also regulated by light activation of CRY1; phyB Pr interacts only with the unstimulated form of CRY1 but not with the photostimulated protein. Further studies reveal that a small domain extending from the photolyase homology region (PHR) of CRY1 regulates the specificity of the interaction with different conformational states of phyB. We hypothesize that in plants, the phyB/CRY1 interaction may mediate cross-talk between the red/far-red- and blue/UV-sensing pathways, enabling fine-tuning of light responses to different spectral inputs.
Here a virus, there a virus, everywhere the same virus?

There are an estimated 10 31 viruses on Earth, most of which are phages that infect bacteria. Metagenomic analyses have shown that environmental viral communities are incredibly diverse. There are an estimated 5000 viral genotypes in 200 liters of seawater and possibly a million different viral genotypes in one kilogram of marine sediment. By contrast, some culturing and molecular studies have found that viruses move between different biomes. Together, these findings suggest that viral diversity could be high on a local scale but relatively limited globally. Also, by moving between environments, viruses can facilitate horizontal gene transfer.
H5N1 and 1918 pandemic influenza virus infection results in early and excessive infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils in the lungs of mice.

Fatal human respiratory disease associated with the 1918 pandemic influenza virus and potentially pandemic H5N1 viruses is characterized by severe lung pathology, including pulmonary edema and extensive inflammatory infiltrate. Here, we quantified the cellular immune response to infection in the mouse lung by flow cytometry and demonstrate that mice infected with highly pathogenic (HP) H1N1 and H5N1 influenza viruses exhibit significantly high numbers of macrophages and neutrophils in the lungs compared to mice infected with low pathogenic (LP) viruses. Mice infected with the 1918 pandemic virus and a recent H5N1 human isolate show considerable similarities in overall lung cellularity, lung immune cell sub-population composition and cellular immune temporal dynamics. Interestingly, while these similarities were observed, the HP H5N1 virus consistently elicited significantly higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in whole lungs and primary human macrophages, revealing a potentially critical difference in the pathogenesis of H5N1 infections. These results together show that infection with HP influenza viruses such as H5N1 and the 1918 pandemic virus leads to a rapid cell recruitment of macrophages and neutrophils into the lungs, suggesting that these cells play a role in acute lung inflammation associated with HP influenza virus infection. In addition, primary macrophages and dendritic cells were also susceptible to 1918 and H5N1 influenza virus infection in vitro and in infected mouse lung tissue.
Two investigations of the validity of the WISC-III.

Two studies were conducted in which the validity of the WISC–III was investigated. In Study 1, WISC—R and WISC–III IQs were correlated for a sample of 53 students who, although originally meeting c...
Thermal and mechanical properties of fiber reinforced high performance self-consolidating concrete at elevated temperatures

Abstract This paper presents the effect of temperature on thermal and mechanical properties of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) and fiber reinforced SCC (FRSCC). For thermal properties specific heat, thermal conductivity, and thermal expansion were measured, whereas for mechanical properties compressive strength, tensile strength and elastic modulus were measured in the temperature range of 20–800 °C. Four SCC mixes, plain SCC, steel, polypropylene, and hybrid fiber reinforced SCC were considered in the test program. Data from mechanical property tests show that the presence of steel fibers enhances high temperature splitting tensile strength and elastic modulus of SCC. Also the thermal expansion of FRSCC is slightly higher than that of SCC in 20–1000 °C range. Data generated from these tests was utilized to develop simplified relations for expressing thermal and mechanical properties of SCC and FRSCC as a function of temperature.
A comparative analysis of open and endovascular repair for the ruptured descending thoracic aorta.

Background Successful repair of the ruptured (non-traumatic) descending thoracic aorta (rTA) remains a formidable clinical challenge. Although effective for rTA, traditional open repair (DTAR) has significant associated morbidity. With expanding indications for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), we describe our experience with TEVAR and DTAR in this high-risk setting to elucidate their evolving roles. Methods Since the inception of our thoracic aortic endovascular program in 1993, 69 patients underwent DTAR (34) or TEVAR (35) for rTA. Patients underwent TEVAR if they were considered nonoperative candidates because of extensive comorbidities (n = 31; 88.6%) or had extremely favorable anatomy for endovascular repair (eg, mid-descending saccular aneurysm, n=4). Aortic pathology causing rupture was fusiform aneurysm (18), saccular aneurysm/ulcer (22), and dissection (29). Associated aortobronchial fistulae (12) and aortoesophageal (1) fistulae were also present in 18.8%. Arch repair was needed in 46; total descending repair was needed in 33. Follow-up was 100% complete (mean 37.4 months). Results Mean age was 65.9 years (DTAR 60.3 year vs TEVAR 71.3 years, P = .005). In-hospital or 30-day mortality was seen in 13 patients (TEVAR n=4; 11.4% vs DTAR n=9; 26.5%, P = .13). Median length of stay was shorter after TEVAR (8 days vs DTAR 15 days, P = .02). Mean Kaplan-Meier survival was similar between groups (TEVAR 67.4 months vs DTAR 65.0 months, P = .7). By multivariate analysis, independent predictors of a composite outcome of early mortality, stroke, permanent spinal cord ischemia, or need for dialysis or tracheostomy included the presentation with hemodynamic instability ( P P = .02). Conclusion An endovascular approach for the ruptured (non-traumatic) descending thoracic aorta reduces early morbidity, mortality, and duration of hospitalization, while providing equivalent late outcomes even in an older group largely considered high risk for open repair. These data support a paradigm shift, with TEVAR emerging as the preferred therapy for all patients presenting with descending aortic rupture.
The Suppression of Harmonic Distortion in Photographic Images

Harmonic distortion in the photographic images of sinusoidal objects can be reduced to a negligible amount by the formation of positive images provided certain conditions of exposure and development are met. Experimental results for objects of low spatial frequency are found to agree well with the theoretical predictions and results obtained from extending measurements to higher frequencies follow a predicted pattern. A modulation transfer function can be found for the linearized system, and experimentally, it is shown to have significance in the formation of images of objects other than sine waves.
Coordinating beliefs in conversation

Abstract We show that participants in conversation develop beliefs about shared information that others do not. So-called directors talked with two partners in succession (A and B) to arrange unusual figures. Directors went from long, indefinite descriptions of the figures to short, definite references as common ground was built up with A. When B had been a silent side participant in the first conversation, directors continued to use short references when they changed partners. References became less efficient when B had not been a participant—even when B had heard the first conversation and seen the figures. When B had only heard the first conversation, he or she was treated much the same as a completely naive partner. Apparently, conversation provides preferred evidence for coordinating beliefs about shared information.
Synthesis and X-ray analysis of a perfluoroalkyl-substituted azobenzene dye

Abstract A search for colorants capable of reducing the surface energy of synthetic fibers as well as adding color led to the synthesis and characterization of the repellency behavior of dyes such as 4-N,N-diethylamino-4′-tridecafluorohexylazobenzene. Unexpectedly high surface energy values and a low fluorine content on fiber surfaces then led to an interest in determining the crystal structure of this new dye. Accordingly, a single crystal was grown from acetone solution, and its structure was established using X-ray diffraction analysis. Interestingly, it was found that the azobenzene skeleton is appreciably nonplanar, having an N2–N1–C1–C2 torsion angle of 30.6°, despite the absence of substituents ortho to the azo bond. Further, the structure is characterized by head-to-tail molecular stacking and the N-ethyl groups in the molecule are positioned above the aminobenzene plane on the same side. It is likely that this combination of factors contribute to the observed surface properties of the target dye.
Pre-electoral coalitions in comparative perspective: A test of existing hypotheses

Abstract Despite the vast coalition literature, pre-electoral coalitions have never been at the center of any systematic, cross-national research. Given their prevalence and potential impact on government composition and policies, this represents a serious omission in our knowledge of coalitions. I begin to remedy this situation by testing two hypotheses found in the literature on party coalitions. The first is that pre-electoral coalitions are more likely to form in disproportional systems if there are a sufficiently large number of parties. The second is that pre-electoral coalitions are more likely to form if voters face high uncertainty about the identity of future governments. These hypotheses are tested using a new dataset comprising legislative elections in 22 advanced industrialized countries between 1946 and 1998. The results of the statistical analysis support the first hypothesis, but not the second.
Quantitative measurements of nitric oxide in high-pressure (2-5 atm), swirl-stabilized spray flames via laser-induced fluorescence

Abstract We report spatially resolved, linear laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) measurements of nitric oxide (NO) in preheated, high-pressure (2.09 to 5.35 atm), lean direct-injection (LDI) spray flames. The spray is produced by a hollow-cone, pressure-atomized nozzle supplied with liquid heptane. NO is excited via the Q 2 (26.5) transition of the γ(0, 0) band. Detection is performed in a 2-nm region centered on the γ(0, 1) band. The major goal of this study is the validation and application of a complete LIF scheme by which quantitative NO concentrations can be measured in high-pressure LDI spray flames. Standard excitation and detection scans have been performed to assess possible interferences and to validate a nonresonant wavelength so as to subtract the influence of oxygen interferences in the NO detection window. NO is doped into the reactants and convected through the flame with no apparent destruction, thus allowing an NO fluorescence calibration to be taken inside the flame environment. The in situ calibration scheme is validated by comparisons with reference flames at high pressure. Quantitative radial NO profiles are presented at 2.09, 3.18, 4.27, and 5.35 atm and analyzed so as to better understand the operation of lean-direct injectors for gas turbine combustors. Downstream NO measurements in the LDI flames indicate an overall pressure scaling corresponding to P 0.74 .
Angiotensin II receptors AT1 and AT2--new mechanisms of signaling and antagonistic effects of AT1 and AT2.

A series of pharmaceutical successes in the treatment of not only essential hypertension but also vascular hypertrophic and hyperplastic diseases, congestive heart failure, and renal degenerative diseases, with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin (Ang) II receptor antagonists indicates that angiotensin may play a pivotal role in the genesis and maintenance of high blood pressure and resultant stroke, atherosclerosis, and heart and kidney diseases. There is more than one form of Ang II receptors. Using expression cloning, we isolated the AT1 cDNA from bovine adrenocortical cells from the kidney of spontaneously hypertensive rats and AT2 cDNA from rat PC12W cells and we showed that it was not the mas oncogene product. Further, we showed that in rodents, AT1 consists of two subtypes, AT1a and AT1b, which share a high degree of sequence homology in their coding regions, although mechanisms of their respective transcriptional control seemed to be different. By computer-assisted modeling and site-directed mutagenesis, we have delineated the docking site of Ang II. AT1a (and AT1b) serves most of the commonly recognized actions of Ang II. In addition, this G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) also activates a tyrosine kinase mechanism that may be an underlying cause of Ang II-mediated hypertrophic and hyperplastic changes of cardiovascular tissues. In the vascular system, the phospholipase C (PLC) activated by Ang II seems to be PLC-β rather than PLC-γ1.