cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of epitaxial graphene on Si-face and C-face 4H SiC formed by ultrahigh vacuum and RF furnace production.

We present X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, van der Pauw Hall mobilities, low-temperature far-infrared magneto transmission (FIR-MT), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) results from graphene films produced by radiative heating in an ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) chamber or produced by radio frequency (RF) furnace annealing in a high vacuum chemical vapor deposition system on Si- and C-face 4H SiC substrates at 1200−1600 °C. Although the vacuum level and heating methods are different, graphene films produced by the two methods are chemically similar with the RF furnace annealing typically producing thicker graphene films than UHV. We observe, however, that the formation of graphene on the two faces is different with the thicker graphene films on the C-face RF samples having higher mobility. The FIR-MT showed a 0(−1) → 1(0) Landau level transition with a √B dependence and a line width consistent with a Dirac fermion with a mobility >250 000 cm2·V−1·s−1 at 4.2 K in a C-face RF sample having a Hall-effect carrier mo...
Lack of altered cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity in the aorta and heart of the spontaneously hypertensive rat.

Abstract DEAE-cellulose chromatography demonstrated that the levels of the individual cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase were unchanged in the aorta and heart of the spontaneously hypertensive rat as compared with the normotensive control rat. Three peaks of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity were observed in both heart and aorta. Peak I enzyme hydrolyzed predominantly cyclic GMP while peak III enzyme hydrolyzed predominantly cyclic AMP. Peak II enzyme was less specific but hydrolyzed more cyclic GMP than cyclic AMP The levels of phosphodiesterase activator in aorta and the responsiveness of peaks I and II from aorta and heart to activator were unchanged in the hypertensive rat. Therefore the decrease in cyclic AMP levels observed by others in aorta and heart of the spontaneously hypertensive rat were probably not due to altered phosphodiesterase activity.
On the definitions of strain and their use in large-strain analysis

It is pointed out that when strains are computed from a displacement field, the engineering definition of strain(l f −l i )/l i has advantages in respect to other definitions used in finite-strain theory. Tensorial transformations can still be used easily by means of Mohr's circle. Illustrations for the case of Eulerian and Lagrangian strains are shown. The comments may be of particular interest to experimental analysts.
Hermitian operators and isometries on sums of Banach spaces

Let E be a Banach sequence space with the property that if (αi) ∈ E and |βi|≦|αi| for all i then (βi) ∈ E and ‖(βi)‖E≦‖(αi)‖E. For example E could be co, lp or some Orlicz sequence space. If (Xn) is a sequence of real or complex Banach spaces, then E can be used to construct a vector sequence space which we will call the E sum of the Xn's and symbolize by ⊕EXn. Specifically, ⊕EXn = {(xn)|(xn)∈Xn and (‖xn‖)∈E}. The E sum is a Banach space with norm defined by: ‖(xn)‖ = ‖(‖xn‖)‖E. This type of space has long been the source of examples and counter-examples in the geometric theory of Banach spaces. For instance, Day [7] used E=lp and Xk=lqk, with appropriate choice of qk, to give an example of a reflexive Banach space not isomorphic to any uniformly conves Banach space. Recently VanDulst and Devalk [33] have considered Orlicz sums of Banach spaces in their studies of Kadec-Klee property.
A High-Resolution 1.3-GHz/54-mm LTS/HTS NMR Magnet

A high-resolution 1.3-GHz/54-mm low-temperature superconducting/high-temperature superconducting (HTS) nuclear magnetic resonance magnet (1.3 G) is currently in the final stage at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Francis Bitter Magnet Laboratory. Its key component is a three-coil (Coils 1-3) 800-MHz HTS insert comprising 96 no-insulation (NI) double-pancake coils, each wound with a 6-mm-wide GdBCO tape. In this paper, after describing the overall 1.3-G system, we present innovative design features incorporated in 1.3 G: 1) an NI winding technique applied to Coils 1-3 and its adverse effect in the form of charging time delay; 2) persistent-mode HTS shims; 3) a “shaking” magnet; and 4) preliminary results of Coil 1 operated at 4.2 K.
Garlic and Helicobacter pylori.

TO THE EDITOR: We have read with interest the clinical trial by Graham and coworkers (1) using garlic and jalapeno peppers for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections, and would like to make some general comments on the methodology of the trial, particularly the "treatment." In the trial, 12 subjects were treated on separate days with three test meals containing one of the following: fresh garlic (10 sliced cloves), capsaicin (six sliced fresh jalapenos), two tablets of bismuth subsalicylate, or nothing added. Treatment of the subjects with fresh garlic or jalapeno in this trial did not reduce urease activity as measured by a breath test. The authors concluded that neither garlic nor jalapeno were effective for H. pylori in vivo, and further suggested that in vivo studies of new natural substances should be performed before the publication of in vitro data (1). We should like to point out that prior work demonstrating that garlic inhibited the growth of H. pylori in vitro was performed with a concentrated aqueous extract (2), or concentrated extracts of garlic (3), and the active chemical constituent appears to be the compound allicin (3). Therefore, it is difficult to understand why raw garlic was employed as a treatment in this trial, instead of a concentrated extract, as was tested in the in vitro studies. It is also difficult to comprehend why it was believed that only three meals containing garlic or jalapeno would be expected to inhibit the growth of H. pylori in vivo. It is clearly recognized that for most herbal medicines, the follow-up in a clinical trial must be 12 wk. In general, the therapeutic effects of botanicals appear to be due to cumulative effects, and may take 8–12 wk before any benefits are observed. In this regard, we wish to also point out that an epidemiological study in China has shown that the seroprevalence of H. pylori infections is negatively associated with long term garlic consumption (4).
Each monomer of the dimeric accessory protein for human mitochondrial DNA polymerase has a distinct role in conferring processivity

The accessory protein polymerase (pol) γB of the human mitochondrial DNA polymerase stimulates the synthetic activity of the catalytic subunit. pol γB functions by both accelerating the polymerization rate and enhancing polymerase-DNA interaction, thereby distinguishing itself from the accessory subunits of other DNA polymerases. The molecular basis for the unique functions of human pol γB lies in its dimeric structure, where the pol γB monomer proximal to pol γA in the holoenzyme strengthens the interaction with DNA, and the distal pol γB monomer accelerates the reaction rate. We further show that human pol γB exhibits a catalytic subunit- and substrate DNA-dependent dimerization. By duplicating the monomeric pol γB of lower eukaryotes, the dimeric mammalian proteins confer additional processivity to the holoenzyme polymerase.
The 3−×3− two-phonon quartet and the proton pairing vibration in 208Pb

Abstract The observed large quadrupole moment of the collective 3 − state in 208 Pb is found to imply a considerable splitting of the two-octupole-phonon quarter. The 0 + member of the quartet is predicted to come lowest in energy, possibly as far down as 3.7 MeV. Energy considerations strongly suggest that an observed 0 + state at 5.26 MeV is the proton pairing vibrational state.
Occurrence of unreduced pollen in diploid blueberry species, Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus

A total of 1475 individuals belonging to 43 natural populations of seven diploid (2x) blueberry species (Vaccinium section Cyanococcus) and two natural interspecific 2x hybrid populations were evaluated for unreduced pollen production. Significant differences were found in the frequency of unreduced pollen producers between species and within and between populations of the same species. Individuals with 1% or more unreduced pollen were considered unreduced pollen producers. The average frequency of unreduced pollen producers in these diploid species was 13.5%, ranging from 7.4% (V. corymbosum) to 18.4% (V. darrowii). The frequency of unreduced pollen grains in individual clones varied from <-1% to 28.6%. The production of unreduced pollen was not associated with male fertility. The widespread occurrence of unreduced pollen in the diploid species should allow the introgression of this germ plasm to the tetraploid level via unilateral sexual polyploidization.
Bounds for the cutoff, Euclidean :Φ 4 : perturbation expansion

We study the unrenormalized perturbation expansion of the Euclidean, massive $\frac{\ensuremath{\lambda}:{\ensuremath{\Phi}}^{4}:}{4!}$ field theory in $d\ensuremath{\ge}1$ space-time dimensions, with a volume cutoff, and with the free propagator regulated by an $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-parameter cutoff in case $d\ensuremath{\ge}2$. In the formal expansion of the Schwinger $n$-point function, $S({x}_{1},\dots{},{x}_{n})=\ensuremath{\Sigma}{l=0}^{\ensuremath{\infty}}{(\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\lambda})}^{l}{S}_{l}({x}_{1},\dots{},{x}_{n})$, we show that $0\ensuremath{\le}{S}_{l}({x}_{1},\dots{},{x}_{n}) \ensuremath{\le}{A}^{l}{(l!)}^{\ensuremath{-}1}\ensuremath{\Pi}{i=1}^{l}[{[i+\frac{(n\ensuremath{-}5)}{4}]}^{2}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}c{S}_{0}({x}_{1},\dots{},{x}_{n})]$. The constant $A$ diverges as the volume cutoff is removed, and, in $d\ensuremath{\ge}2$ dimensions, as the ultraviolet cutoff is removed. We also give finite bounds for no volume cutoff, at the expense of lowering the mass in the free field and multiplying by an extra factor $l!$. We give analogous bounds for the connected $n$-point function in terms of the tree approximation. The method is combinatoric, once we establish $x$-space bounds on two basic diagrams. These follow from some properties of Bessel potentials of $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ cutoffs, which we believe to be new.
Fast implementation of orthogonal greedy algorithm for tight wavelet frames

We introduce and study a fast implementation of orthogonal greedy algorithm for wavelet frames. The results of numerical simulation for N-term approximations of standard images by tight wavelet frames showed that to provide the same PSNR the popular 9/7 biorthogonal wavelet bases require 38-42% more terms of the expansion. This is equivalent to 2-4 dB advantage of the wavelet frames in PSNR over the 9/7 bases for a fixed number of decomposition terms.
Improved staining method for the simultaneous flow cytofluorometric analysis of DNA content, S-phase fraction, and surface phenotype using single laser instrumentation

We have developed an improved technique for triple staining that permits the simultaneous flow cytofluorometric analysis of cell surface antigens, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation into DNA, and DNA quantification using 7-amino-actinomycin D. PHA-activated human peripheral blood lymphocytes were incubated with bromodeoxyuridine and stained for cell surface phenotype with phycoerythrin-labeled monoclonal antibodies. Stained cells were fixed serially with 1% paraformaldehyde and 45% ethanol. Fixed cells were sequentially stained with an anti-BrdUrd monoclonal antibody followed by a FITC-conjugated goat anti-mouse antibody and incubated with 7-amino-actinomycin D. Hypotonic buffer was employed for all procedures after fixation. Stained-fixed cells were analyzed by flow cytofluorometry for simultaneous green (525 nm), orange (570 nm), and red (greater than 650 nm) fluorescence. Utilizing this staining technique, we were able to analyze simultaneously cell phenotype, DNA synthesis, and total cellular DNA content with single laser excitation.
New opportunities in quasi elastic neutron scattering spectroscopy

The high energy resolution usually required in quasi elastic neutron scattering (QENS) spectroscopy is commonly achieved by the use of cold neutrons. This is one of the important research areas where the majority of current work is done on instruments on continuous reactor sources. One particular reason for this is the capability of continuous source time-of-flight spectrometers to use instrumental parameters optimally adapted for best data collection efficiency in each experiment. These parameters include the pulse repetition rate and the length of the pulses to achieve optimal balance between resolution and intensity. In addition, the disc chopper systems used provide perfect symmetrical line shapes with no tails and low background. Recent development of a set of novel techniques enhance the efficiency of cold neutron spectroscopy on existing and future spallation sources in a dramatic fashion. These techniques involve the use of extended pulse length, high intensity coupled moderators, disc chopper systems and advanced neutron optical beam delivery, and they will enable Lujan center at Los Alamos to surpass the best existing reactor instruments in time-of-flight QENS work by more than on order of magnitude in terms of beam flux on the sample. Other applications of the same techniques will allow us to combine advantages of backscattering spectroscopy on continuous and pulsed sources in order to deliver μeV resolution in a very broad energy transfer range.
Intestinal absorption and renal excretion of dietary methionine sources by the growing chicken

Abstract The biopotency of DL-methionine (MET) and 2-hydroxy-4-[methylthio]butanoic acid (DL-HMB) for broiler chicks was determined using a semipurified diet. Based on growth rate and efficiency of feed utilization, DL-HMB was 72% as potent as DL-MET, while the potencies of L-MET and DL-MET were not different. Studies were conducted to determine if differences in intestinal absorption or urinary excretion of these compounds account for differences in bioavailability. 14 C-labeled methionine sources were fed to 2- to 3-week-old broiler chicks and the extent of their absorption determined using Cr 2 O 3 as a marker of digestibility. All three sources were completely absorbed in the small intestine. Urinary excretion was studied in 4- to 6-week-old broiler chicks. Saline solutions containing inulin, and 20 mmol/L L-MET, 20 mmol/L D-MET, or 5 or 20 mmol/L DL-HMB were infused intravenously. Blood and urine samples were taken at regular intervals over a 50-min period. The plasma concentrations of L-MET, D-MET, and DL-HMB increased during the course of infusion to 0.5 mmol/L. Urinary excretion of L-MET and D-MET remained less than 1% and 2.2% of the filtered load, respectively. Excretion of HMB increased from about 6% to about 18% of the filtered load as plasma concentration increased to about 0.3 mmol/L, and increased abruptly at higher plasma concentrations. Based on these data and plasma HMB concentrations determined in chicks fed DL-HMB, urinary losses of HMB would be less than 1% of the daily intake. These experiments indicate that differences of biopotency between methionine sources are not due to variations in intestinal absorption or urinary excretion.
Noncatalytic detoxication of six organophosphorus compounds by rat liver homogenates.

Abstract The ability of rat liver aliesterases to noncatalytically detoxify the oxons of six phosphorothionate insecticides was studied; the insecticides were methyl parathion, parathion, chlorpyrifos-methyl, chlorpyrifos, leptophos, and EPN. All oxons were more potent inhibitors (nM range) of rat liver aliesterases than the target rat brain acetylcholinesterase, with the exception of methyl paraoxon. Rat liver homogenates (including EDTA to eliminate possible A-esterase contributions) increased apparent I50s of the oxons to bovine brain acetylcholinesterase, indicating a detoxication of an appreciable amount of the oxon. Except for EPN-oxon, detoxication ability correlated with aliesterase sensitivity to inhibition. Liver homogenates from rats treated in vivo with the phosphorothionates had a reduced detoxication capability which correlated highly with residual aliesterase activity. With the exception of methyl parathion, animals treated for 90 min with high doses of the phosphorothionates displayed higher liver aliesterase inhibition than brain acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Thus, liver aliesterases represent a significant alternative phosphorylation site for organophosphates, and their efficacy for detoxication is a function of relative affinities of the oxon for the aliesterases and acetylcholinesterase.
Improved resuscitation minimizes respiratory dysfunction and blunts interleukin-6 and nuclear factor-kappa B activation after traumatic hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that modifying resuscitation would alter hemorrhagic shock-induced respiratory dysfunction and correlate with nuclear factor-kappa B and cytokine expression. DESIGN Randomized, controlled, prospective study. SETTING University hospital trauma research laboratory. SUBJECTS Female, Swiss Webster mice, 8-12 wks old. INTERVENTIONS Hemorrhagic shock was induced by removing 0.025 mL of blood/g of body weight via a carotid catheter. Animals were resuscitated 30 mins later. Mice were randomized into four groups: group I was cannulated but not bled (sham); group II received normal saline to three times their shed blood volume; group III received their shed blood; and group IV received shed blood + normal saline at two times shed blood volume. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We measured the following: serum lactates at the end of shock and after resuscitation, pulmonary function before any instrumentation and after 24 hrs, cytokine concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and nuclear factor-kappa B activity by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Groups that were hemorrhaged had significant hypotension and a significant increase in serum lactates over 30 mins. Resuscitation returned the blood pressure to baseline in all groups, and lactates improved in all groups except group II. Group II also demonstrated a significant decrease in pulmonary function characterized by increased airway resistance and decreases in minute volume, lung compliance, and alveolar function. Bronchoalveolar fluid and serum interleukin-6 and whole lung nuclear factor-kappa B activity also were elevated significantly in group II. CONCLUSIONS Group II demonstrated the least improvement in serum lactate after resuscitation, the most significant acute lung injury, and the greatest interleukin-6 and nuclear factor-kappa B response. Group IV mice had the least acute lung injury, with no detectable interleukin-6 response. Improved resuscitation with crystalloid and shed blood minimized acute lung injury. The reduction in pulmonary dysfunction after improved resuscitation may be attributable to a blunting of the nuclear factor-kappa B and interleukin-6 responses to hemorrhage.
Global Workforce Bolsters U.S. Science

B eginning in the 1930s and continuing through the 1950s, the United States gradually earned a dominant position in science and engineering. Those gains were made in part through the influx of foreign-born scientists from Europe, and later from the developing world, who were attracted by the
Polyandry and Reproduction in the Serpentine Leaf Miner Liriomyza trifolii (Diptera: Agromyzidae)

We investigated the hypotheses that Liriomyza trifolii is a polyandrous species and that multiple mating is required to maximize female fecundity. In addition, the hypothesis that male copulating frequency reduces female fecundity was examined. Using sterile and fertile males, we found that L. trifolii females mate more than once during their life span, and that multiple mating is required to maximize female fecundity. A similar amount of sperm was transferred during five successive male copulations with an equal insemination probability. However, the probability of reproduction failure was strongly correlated with the male copulating sequence. Moreover, the failure rate of sperm transfer was found to be 6.8%. In light of these results, possible selection pressures driving for polyandry in L. trifolii are discussed.
PHOTONUCLEAR REACTIONS OF GALLIUM AND ARSENIC WITH 70-Mev BREMSSTRAHLUNG

Radiochemical techniques were utilized in the measurement of yields of photonuclear reactions induced by 70-Mev bremsstrahlung in gallium and arsenic targets. For As targets the yields of ${\mathrm{As}}^{74}$, ${\mathrm{Ga}}^{73}$, ${\mathrm{Ga}}^{72}$, ${\mathrm{Ga}}^{68}$, ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{69}$, and ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{69m}$ were determined. In the gallium targets the yields of ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{69}$, ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{69m}$, ${\mathrm{Ni}}^{65}$, and ${\mathrm{Co}}^{61}$ were measured. The integrated cross sections for the indicated photonuclear reactions were estimated from the yields. The integrated cross sections of five ($\ensuremath{\gamma}, 3p3n$) processes were compared. The relative yields of the ${\mathrm{Zn}}^{69}$ isomeric pair depended upon the process of formation.
Determinants of plasma vitamin E concentrations

Abstract Vitamin E, a lipid soluble antioxidant, is transported in plasma lipoproteins. This review will summarize the mechanisms for the preferential incorporation of RRR-α-tocopherol into lipoproteins. Special attention is devoted to the hepatic tocopherol binding protein, and to patients who are vitamin E deficient because they apparently have a genetic defect in this protein. The regulation of plasma vitamin E by the tocopherol binding protein as a determinant of the biologic activity of various forms of vitamin E is also discussed.
Effects of native oxides and optical confinement on microactivity VCSEL spontaneous emission

ABSTRACT Threshold currents in small-aperture VCSELs are likely to be dominated by diffraction losses. We have developed a semianalytic technique to estimate the lasing mode energies, field profiles and cavity lossesincluding absorption, mirror, and diffraction lossesin oxide-apertured VCSELs. By coupling these modes to the full, nonparabolicelectronic bandstructure, and by solving the resulting multimode related rate equations, we can model the lightverses current charcteristics of microcavity VCSELs. We apply our model to a low-threshold VCSEL structureand calculate threshold currents of 30-40 A, in qualitative agreement with experiments. We estimate spontaneous emission factors 3 as large as 1.7x 1O_2 for a 1.5 m radius device. 1. Introduction As the transverse dimensions of VCSEL cavities shrink, threshold currents are expected to decline, and the fraction (i:9) of spontaneous emission coupled into the lasing mode is expected to increase.1'2 Additionally, the light vs. current
Organic microporous materials made by bicontinuous microemulsion polymerization

Microporous solids made by polymerizing the organic phase of bicontinuous microemulsions stabilized with didodecyldimethylammonium bromide show surface areas as high as 70 m2/g. Small-angle X-ray scattering measurements on microporous copolymers containing polymethylmethacrylate show that these areas result from structures larger than 250 A that are generated during polymerization. These X-rays measurements also show that the 17-A structures characteristics of the original microemulsion are retained during polymerization, but destroyed when the detergent is extracted and the solid is dried.
Ultrafast Time-Resolved Spectroscopy of Xanthophylls at Low Temperature

Many of the spectroscopic features and photophysical properties of xanthophylls and their role in energy transfer to chlorophyll can be accounted for on the basis of a three-state model. The characteristically strong visible absorption of xanthophylls is associated with a transition from the ground state S0 (11Ag-) to the S2 (11Bu+) excited state. The lowest lying singlet state denoted S1 (21Ag-), is a state into which absorption from the ground state is symmetry forbidden. Ultrafast optical spectroscopic studies and quantum computations have suggested the presence of additional excited singlet states in the vicinity of S1 (21Ag-) and S2 (11Bu+). One of these is denoted S* and has been suggested in previous work to be associated with a twisted molecular conformation of the molecule in the S1 (21Ag-) state. In this work, we present the results of a spectroscopic investigation of three major xanthophylls from higher plants: violaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These molecules have systematically increasin...
A new characterization of strongly chordal graphs

Abstract The ‘strength’ of an edge or cycle is the number of maximal complete subgraphs it is in. Strongly chordal graphs are characterized by every cycle of edges of strengths at least k with no chord of strength at least k always itself having strength at least k . Among hereditary clique-Helly graphs, this is equivalent to the subgraph of edges of strength at least k always forming a chordal graph.
Phasic loss of constraints in timing of neuronal spikes in the feline centrum medianum during EEG alpha-like activity

In unrestrained cats, temporal patterns of single neuronal firing in the centrum medianum-parafascicular complex (CM-Pf) of thalamus were studied during a state of motionless quiet wakefulness. The spike trains from each neuron were electronically divided into episodes that occurred during desynchronized EEG and those that occurred during bursts of 6-14 Hz EEG spindles or alpha-like activity over the parieto-occipital cortex and in the CM-Pf. Contrary to expectations based on the theory of inhibitory phasing of neuronal activity, the episodes of synchronized quiet wakefulness (S-QW) were associated with independent and random distribution of spike intervals, although they tended to occur in clusters. During episodes of desynchronized quiet wakefulness (D-QW), significant temporal patterns were emitted by most neurons studied. The results suggest that: (a) during D-QW and increased levels of vigilance, temporal patterns are generated by cognitive processes and enhanced specific connectivities between CM-Pf neurons and other systems; (b) if connectivity is defined as increased certainty of synaptic transmission and iterative activation of the same pathways, then the assumption that the gross EEG thalamo-cortical synchronization represents increased connectivities between the CM-Pf neurons and other systems, may be erroneous; and (c) since temporal patterns of single neuronal discharges are determined by specific spatio-temporal distribution of synaptic drive, therefore during EEG spindles, most EPSP-IPSP sequences impinging upon CM-Pf neurons are conveyed by randomly varying polysynaptic pathways and have random spatio-temporal distribution on the soma and dendrites. In light of other observations, such a process is equivalent to an active introduction of uncertainty or 'entropy' into the information processing system, a state which may be important in preserving plasticity of operational modes of CM-Pf neurons and those with which they directly and/or indirectly interact.
Selective enhancement filters for lung nodules, intracranial aneurysms, and breast microcalcifications

Abstract Computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) schemes have been developed to assist radiologists in the detection of various abnormalities in medical images such as lung nodules, intracranial aneurysms, and breast microcalcifications. In order to improve the sensitivity for detection of abnormalities, many researchers have employed filters for enhancement of a specific type of abnormality. However, these filters generally enhance not only the specific type of lesion, but also normal anatomic structures such as ribs, blood vessels, and airway walls. Therefore, lesions are often detected together with a large number of false positives caused by the normal anatomic structures. In this study, we developed selective enhancement filters for lung nodules, intracranial aneurysms, and breast microcalcifications, which can simultaneously enhance a specific type of lesion and suppress normal anatomic structures such as blood vessels and airway walls. Therefore, as preprocessing steps, these filters would be useful for improving the sensitivity of lesion detection and for reducing the number of false positives. We applied the selective enhancement filters to two-dimensional mammography, three-dimensional computed-tomography images, and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) images to show its effectiveness for the enhancement of lung nodules, intracranial aneurysms, and breast microcalcifications.
Towards a model for electronic design process refinement

Abstract In this paper we discuss the issues surrounding the development of an electronic design process refinement model. We start by describing the metrics needed to assess design process efficiency and consider such metrics in regard to different design process models. We then present approaches for gathering process data during execution either via surveys or automatically in a workflow environment. Finally we discuss techniques for analyzing and refining design processes.
How is it best to treat early rheumatoid arthritis patients

During the past decade, many important changes have occurred in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, perhaps the most important of which has been the realization that early diagnosis and early treatment are critical. This has challenged our health-care systems to make sure that patients with early arthritis have access to the appropriate physicians. Additionally, the last decade has also seen many new treatment options become available for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These new options have included the use of old drugs more effectively; the use of combinations of two or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs; new evidence to support the use of steroids; the resurrection of tetracyclines; the introduction of leflunomide; and, finally, the tumour necrosis factor inhibitors etanercept and infliximab. The availability of all these new options is clearly excellent news for patients with RA and their physicians. It is hoped that we will, in the next few years, better understand how most effectively to utilize these treatment options for the optimal care of our patients.
Controlling multiple-drug-resistant organisms at the hospital level.

Nosocomial infections due to multiple-drug-resistant (MDR) organisms are associated with poor patient outcomes and increased healthcare cost. The natural history of an MDR nosocomial infection can be characterised in four steps. First is the introduction of MDR organisms into the patient’s normal flora as a consequence of inappropriate infection control practices. Second is the selection of MDR organisms due, in part, to inappropriate antibiotic therapy. Third is the development of an MDR infection due, in part, to inappropriate invasive techniques. The fourth step occurs when the patient has developed poor clinical outcomes due, in part, to inappropriate antibiotic therapy. At the local hospital level, a multidisciplinary MDR control programme should be developed with the goals to optimise local surveillance of MDR organisms, improve local infection-control practices, and control local antimicrobial use. Without achieving these three goals, hospitals will not be able to control the spread of MDR organisms.
The annual pattern of plasma calcium in the frog and the seasonal effect of ultimobranchialectomy and parathyroidectomy.

Abstract The seasonal effect of ultimobranchialectomy (UBX) and/or parathyroidectomy (PTX or PTX-UBX) on plasma calcium at a constant postoperative period was studied in the frog, Rana pipiens . This procedure provided insight into the times of the year when these two endocrine systems exert their maximal and minimal effect on plasma calcium. In sham controls, plasma calcium levels throughout the year exhibited a sinusoidal pattern which attained maximal levels in November–December and minimal levels in April–May, while the annual mean was 7.2 ± 1.1 mg/100 ml. The annual plasma calcium in acute (1 week postoperative) ultimobranchialectomized frogs exhibited no significant deviation from the control series. The effect of parathyroidectomy or removal of both glands (1 week postoperative) simultaneously had a variable effect at different times of the year, in which maximal depression of plasma calcium was observed in August (2.0 mg/100 ml). The seasonal influence of both glands was assessed by comparing the residual influence of intact parathyroids in UBX frogs and the ultimobranchial glands in PTX frogs with animals in which both glands were removed (PTX-UBX). The parathyroids exert a lower, but significant hypercalcemic effect during the winter months, with maximal expression in August. The ultimobranchial glands do not exert a hypocalcemic effect in the absence of the parathyroids, but, with parathyroids present, the hypocalcemic effect is proportional to the magnitude of the parathyroid influence. Parathyroid influence on plasma calcium declines in September and may be a mechanism for retaining calcium and preventing a fall in plasma calcium levels during the winter.
BIOLOGY OF THE MAPLE TRUMPET SKELETONIZER, EPINOTIA ACERIELLA (LEPIDOPTERA: OLETHREUTIDAE), IN NEW YORK

The life history of Epinotia aceriella (Clemens) is discussed and the life stages described. Information is presented on feeding behavior, distribution, hosts, and natural enemies. Control recommendations are made.
Phase Formation and Stability in Reactively Sputter Deposited Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Coatings

Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) coatings were produced by reactively cosputtering metallic zirconium and yttrium targets in an argon and oxygen plasma using a system with multiple magnetron sputtering sources. Coating crystal structure and phase stability, as functions of Y2O3 content, substrate bias, and annealing temperature, were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results demonstrated that highly (111)-oriented tetragonal and cubic zirconia structures were formed in 2 and 4.5 mol% Y2O3 coatings, respectively, when the coatings were grown with an applied substrate bias. Conversely, coatings deposited with no substrate bias had random tetragonal and cubic structures. XRD analysis of annealed coatings showed that the cubic zirconia in 4.5 mol% Y2O3 coatings exhibited structural stability at temperatures up to 1200°C. Transformation of the tetragonal to monoclinic phase occurred in 2 mol% Y2O3 coating during high-temperature annealing, with the fraction of transformation dependent on bias potential and annealing temperature.
Kinship and Social Support of the Elderly: The Case of the United States

This paper deals with two related issues: (1) the extent to which older persons who require some assistance in the tasks of or resources needed for daily living actually receive such assistance from informal networks; and (2) the consequences of the receipt of this assistance for the older person.
Digestibility and Pasting Properties of Rice Starch Heat‐Moisture Treated at the Melting Temperature (Tm )

Non-waxy and waxy rice starches adjusted to 20% moisture (wet based, w.b.) were heated in a differential scanning calorimeter to determine the optimum parameters for producing slowly digestible starch (SDS). Starches heated to the temperature of melting (T m ) and held for 60 min in the calorimeter showed a slow digestibility compared to unheated samples. Digestibility decreased by 25 and 10%, respectively, for non-waxy and waxy rice starches relative to non-treated starches. Heat-moisture treatment of waxy corn, non-waxy corn and wheat starches at the T m determined for non-waxy rice starch did not result in significant decreases in digestibility. For waxy rice starches heat-treated in microwave or conventional ovens at the T m , there were slight but significant increases in digestibility of the treated starches compared to non-treated starches at all incubation times. Digestibility was higher for starches heated for 30 min than for 60 min. Non-waxy rice starches did not show any significant changes in digestibility. Heat-moisture treatment at the T m and the holding time of sample at that temperature in a differential scanning calorimeter were found to be significant to the formation of slowly digestible heat-moisture treated starch.
Responses of Elderly and Chronically III Subjects to Bivalent Influenza A/New Jersey/8/76 (Hsw1N1)-A/Victoria/3/75 (H3N2) Vaccines

Antibody responses and side effects to bivalent influenza A virus vaccines from three different manufacturers, containing 200 or 400 chick cell-agglutinating (CCA) units each of A/New Jersey/8/76 (Hsw1N1) and A/Victoria/3/75 (H3N2) antigens, were evaluated in 234 ambulatory elderly and chronically ill volunteers in a placebo-controlled, doubld-blind study. Systemic reactions did not occur significantly more often among recipients of vaccine than among volunteers who received placebo. Local reactions to vaccines were observed but were mild, transient, and well tolerated. Occurrence of preexisting antibody to each antigen was common. Titers of antibody to A/New Jersey/8/76 (Hsw1N1) antigen of greater than or equal to 1:40 occurred after immunization in 94%-100% of volunteers receiving vaccines and in 66% of the placebo recipients. Titers of antibody to A/Victoria/3/75 (H3N2) antigen of greater than or equal to 1:40 occurred in 53%-85% of vaccine recipients compared with 34% of those in the placebo group. Thus, bivalent split-product and whole-virus influenza I vaccines containing 200/200 or 400/400 CCA units of the two antigens appeared to be nearly equivalent in incidence and severity of side effects and antibody responses in recipients.
Remembering what the doctor said: Organization and adults' memory for medical information

Remembering medical information over time is important for patients' health and well-being. Younger and older adults' respective memories of information from a videotaped medical feedback session about osteoarthritis were examined as a function of information organization. Participants were randomly assigned to either an organized or an unorganized presentation condition. Retention was assessed immediately, and after 1-week and 1-month delays, by use of a free-recall task. Younger and older adults in general remembered equivalent amounts of medical information. Organization of medical information did not have an impact on the amount of information remembered. Results indicated that participants recalled more medical information immediately than after the 1-week and 1-month delays. Younger adults initially recalled more medical information than older adults; however, younger and older adults remembered equivalent amounts of information after the 1-week and 1-month delays.
Assessment of endothelial function by non-invasive peripheral arterial tonometry predicts late cardiovascular adverse events

There is growing need for the identification of novel non-invasive methodologies for the identification of individuals at risk for adverse cardiovascular (CV) events. We examined whether endothelial dysfunction, as detected by non- invasive peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT), can predict late CV events. Methods and results Reactive hyperaemia (RH) was induced following upper arm occlusion of systolic blood pressure in 270 outpatients (54+ 12 years, 48% female). The natural logarithmic scaled RH index (L_RHI) was calculated from the ratio between the digital pulse volume during RH and at baseline. The patients were followed for CV adverse events (AE: cardiac death, myocardial infarction, revascularization or cardiac hospitalization) during a 7-year follow-up (inter-quartile range ¼ 4.4-8). Cox models were used to estimate the association of EndoPAT results with AE adjusted for age. During the follow-up, AE occurred in 86 patients (31%). Seven-year AE rate was 48% in patients with L_RHI , 0.4 vs. 28% in those with L_RHI � 0.4 (P ¼ 0.03). Additional univariate predictors of AE were advancing age (P ¼ 0.02) and prior coronary bypass surgery (P ¼ 0.01). The traditional Framingham risk score was not higher in patients with AE. Multivariate analysis identified L_RHI , 0.4 as an independent predictor of AE (P ¼ 0.03). Conclusion A low RH signal detected by EndoPAT, consistent with endothelial dysfunction, was associated with higher AE rate during follow-up. L_RHI was an independent predictor of AE. Non-invasive assessment of peripheral vascular func- tion may be useful for the identification of patients at risk for cardiac AEs.
The Dynamic Nature of DNA Methylation: A Role in Response to Social and Seasonal Variation

Synopsis An organism’s ability to adapt to its environment depends on its ability to regulate and maintain tissue specific, temporal patterns of gene transcription in response to specific environmental cues. Epigenetic mechanisms are responsible for many of the intricacies of a gene’s regulation that alter expression patterns without affecting the genetic sequence. In particular, DNA methylation has been shown to have an important role in regulating early development and in some human diseases. Within these domains, DNA methylation has been extensively characterized over the past 60 years, but the discovery of its role in regulating behavioral outcomes has led to renewed interest in its potential roles in animal behavior and phenotypic plasticity. The conservation of DNA methylation across the animal kingdom suggests a possible role in the plasticity of genomic responses to environmental cues in natural environments. Here, we review the historical context for the study of DNA methylation, its function and mechanisms, and provide examples of gene/environment interactions in response to social and seasonal cues. Finally, we discuss useful tools to interrogate and dissect the function of DNA methylation in non-model organisms.
Liquidity Risk in the Corporate Bond Markets 1

A great deal of work has focused on market microstructure, but relatively little work has been devoted to the study of risk associated with liquidity. The work that has been done has almost exclusively focused on US equities - primarily because that market is fairly liquid and therefore data is plentiful. However, because that market is liquid, the empirical results been mixed. For our work, we use a unique database of US corporate bond transactions and holdings. Because the corporate bond market is several orders of magnitude more illiquid than the equity market, this seems a much more appropriate setting to study the effects of illiquidity. To get around the problem of a lack of trading (and therefore data), we construct a new measure of liquidity which does not require trading. Using this measure, we show that not only is liquidity risk priced, but that the effects of liquidity risk are quite pervasive and need to be controlled for carefully when doing virtually any analysis of security returns.
Slow dynamics and high variability in balanced cortical networks with clustered connections

Anatomical studies demonstrate that excitatory connections in cortex are not uniformly distributed across a network but instead exhibit clustering into groups of highly connected neurons. The implications of clustering for cortical activity are unclear. We studied the effect of clustered excitatory connections on the dynamics of neuronal networks that exhibited high spike time variability owing to a balance between excitation and inhibition. Even modest clustering substantially changed the behavior of these networks, introducing slow dynamics during which clusters of neurons transiently increased or decreased their firing rate. Consequently, neurons exhibited both fast spiking variability and slow firing rate fluctuations. A simplified model shows how stimuli bias networks toward particular activity states, thereby reducing firing rate variability as observed experimentally in many cortical areas. Our model thus relates cortical architecture to the reported variability in spontaneous and evoked spiking activity.
Effects of angiotensin II generated by an angiotensin converting enzyme-independent pathway on left ventricular performance in the conscious baboon.

Abstract Human chymase is a serine proteinase that converts angiotensin (Ang) I to Ang II independent of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in vitro. The effects of chymase on systemic hemodynamics and left ventricular function in vivo were studied in nine conscious baboons instrumented with a LV micromanometer and LV minor axis and wall thickness sonomicrometer crystal pairs. Measurements were made at baseline and after [Pro11DAla12] Ang I, a specific substrate for human chymase, was given in consecutive fashion as a 0.1 mg bolus, an hour-long intravenous infusion of 5 mg, a 3 mg bolus, and after 5 mg of an Ang II receptor antagonist. [Pro11DAla12]Ang I significantly increased LV systolic and diastolic pressure, LV end-diastolic and end systolic dimensions and the time constant of LV relaxation and significantly decreased LV fractional shortening and wall thickening. Administration of a specific Ang II receptor antagonist reversed all the hemodynamic changes. In separate studies, similar results were obtained in six of the baboons with ACE blockade (20 mg, intravenous captopril). Post-mortem studies indicated that chymase-like activity was widely distributed in multiple tissues. Thus, in primates, Ang I is converted into Ang II by an enzyme with chymase-like activity. This study provides the first in vivo evidence of an ACE-independent pathway for Ang II production.
Complementary FIR Filter Pair for Distributed Impairment Compensation of WDM Fiber Transmission

A method of designing a complementary filter pair is proposed to reduce error accumulation in the split-step backward propagation for distributed impairment compensation of wavelength-division-multiplexing transmission. The complementary filter pair is designed so that the individual errors of the two filters cancel each other. A 12 times 100 Gb/s 16-ary quadrature amplitude modulation transmission system in nonzero dispersion-shifted fiber is simulated using such a filter pair. The required filter length is halved by the complementary filter pair design for a transmission distance of 1200 km.
Multicultural E-Resources: An Exploratory Study of Resources Held by ARL Libraries

The purpose of this study was to discover what libraries belonging to the Association of Research Libraries are subscribing to in support of multicultural and diversity research. A list of bibliographic and digital collections was created and searched for in the online public access catalogs of academic and research libraries in 2005 and 2008. A list of recommended e-resources was derived based on the ownership of Association of Research Libraries member libraries and Magazine for Libraries 2006 and 2009. During the three-year interval there was a 45.8 percent increase in subscriptions to the multicultural and diversity databases.
Tinctorial Properties of Zygomycosis in Cutaneous Biopsy Specimens

It is a little known fact that the organisms causing Zygomycosis are often better visualized with routine Hematoxylin and Eosin (H and E) staining than Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) staining. Experienced dermatopathologists, when evaluating histologic samples suspected of harboring deep fungal infection often rely more heavily on PAS staining to detect fungi. The diagnosis of Zygomycosis may be delayed or missed entirely if sufficient attention is not devoted to the H and E stained specimen. A review of multiple dermatopathology textbooks shows there is no universal agreement on the usefulness of routine H and E staining versus use of special stains for the detection of Zygomycosis. Grocott’s Methanamine Silver (GMS) staining can give false negative results if background staining of reticulum fibers is enhanced. This can occur because of overexposure in silver solution, excessive heat during processing, or use of incorrectly titrated solutions. Three consecutive culture proven cases of cutaneous Zygomycosis infection were evaluated. In each case, organisms were clearly visualized on routine H and E sections while PAS staining was variable. Examples of false negative GMS staining are also shown. Recognition of these staining properties can help dermatopathologists better detect the agents of Zygomycosis.