cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extreme-Ultraviolet Spectra of Ionic Crystals

The absorption spectra of several ionic crystals were obtained by the use of synchrotron radiation with photon energies in the range 50-250 eV. This range includes thresholds for excitation of both $p$ and $d$ core states. Arguments are given that peaks in the observed spectra are generally due to maxima in the final density of states, rather than exciton phenomena. The chlorine ${L}_{\mathrm{I}\mathrm{I},\mathrm{I}\mathrm{I}\mathrm{I}}$ spectra of NaCl, KCl, RbCl, and even AgCl are very much alike, which can be understood in terms of similar conduction-band structure for these materials. It is suggested that double excitations are not as important as collective effects. The $3d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}p$ spectra of the ${\mathrm{Br}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ Kr-${\mathrm{Rb}}^{+}$ sequence, as well as the $4d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}p$ spectra of the ${\mathrm{I}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$-Xe-${\mathrm{Cs}}^{+}$ sequence, can be understood by taking into account the spin-orbit splitting of the initial states and the final-state band structure. Very prominent $d\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{t}\mathrm{o}\ensuremath{-}f$ resonances were found for compounds containing iodine and cesium. In CsCl and CsBr, structure near 160 eV due to excitation of the cesium ${\mathrm{N}}_{\mathrm{III}}$ level shows an unusual antiresonance behavior.
Determining significance in metagenomic samples

Many ecology studies employ ordination methods to visually inspect metagenomic data sets, which initially may contain thousands of dimensions that represent operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of a sample. Many times, MANOVA (applied to a pairwise distance set) is applied to determine how different the groups in the study are from one another. It is convenient to have a p-value that allows us to interpret if two or more groups are different than one another with statistical confidence, where the null hypothesis is that the two populations are not different than the other. With MANOVA all groups are tested under the hypothesis that they are equal. In this work, we present a statistical framework for obtaining a p-value to compare multiple groups that is derived from a non-parametric statistical test, which uses data derived from the OTU features. The result is a matrix of p-values for the comparison on multiple groups in a metagenomic data set. We test our approach on a real-world database using several variations of ordination techniques.
SLIT3-ROBO4 activation promotes vascular network formation in human engineered tissue and angiogenesis in vivo☆

Successful implantation and long-term survival of engineered tissue grafts hinges on adequate vascularization of the implant. Endothelial cells are essential for patterning vascular structures, but they require supportive mural cells such as pericytes/mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to generate stable, functional blood vessels. While there is evidence that the angiogenic effect of MSCs is mediated via the secretion of paracrine signals, the identity of these signals is unknown. By utilizing two functionally distinct human MSC clones, we found that so-called “pericytic” MSCs secrete the pro-angiogenic vascular guidance molecule SLIT3, which guides vascular development by directing ROBO4-positive endothelial cells to form networks in engineered tissue. In contrast, “non-pericytic” MSCs exhibit reduced activation of the SLIT3/ROBO4 pathway and do not support vascular networks. Using live cell imaging of organizing 3D vascular networks, we show that siRNA knockdown of SLIT3 in MSCs leads to disorganized clustering of ECs. Knockdown of its receptor ROBO4 in ECs abolishes the generation of functional human blood vessels in an in vivo xenogenic implant. These data suggest that the SLIT3/ROBO4 pathway is required for MSC-guided vascularization in engineered tissues. Heterogeneity of SLIT3 expression may underlie the variable clinical success of MSCs for tissue repair applications.
The interaction of O2, NO, and N2O with Ge surfaces

Abstract The interaction of molecular oxygen (O 2 ), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrous oxide (N 2 O) with Ge(111), Ge(111) disordered by sputter-etching, and amorphous Ge (a-Ge) surfaces was studied at room temperature using high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS), core level and valence band EELS, and Auger electron spectroscopy. The interaction of activated NO, N 2 O, and N 2 molecules with these surfaces was also examined. Results indicate that oxygen originating from O 2 bonds to surface and subsurface Ge atoms in a bridge configuration. Penetration is more pronounced at the disordered surfaces resulting in a dilute bridge bonding configuration (+ 1 oxidation state), whereas the + 1 to + 3 oxidation states are observed at the similarly treated Ge(111). The N 2 O molecules decompose to desorbing N 2 molecules and chemisorbed oxygen atoms. In contrast, nitrogen and oxygen are detected by Auger analysis at the NO-exposed surfaces. However, the germanium nitride vibrational modes are identified only after heating these surfaces to ~ 550 ° C. A precursor Ge nitride is observed at room temperature following exposure to nitrogen atoms and ions. Only the + 1 oxidation state is observed for the surfaces exposed to NO and N 2 O. This behavior is discussed and compared to O 2 chemisorption. Electronic EELS of Ge surfaces exposed to activated NO, N 2 O, and N 2 indicate that bonding occurs at the surface dangling bonds. Nitrogen related electronic losses are also identified.
Application of the cell model to the calculation of the physical properties of a gas-solid molecular complex

Abstract Using an approximate cell model theory, an approximate interaction potential, and the X-ray crystallographic data, the thermodynamics of a gas-solid molecular complex can be approximated on a computer.
Protein-protein orientation in electron-transfer reactions of the cytochromec/plastocyanin complex with free cytochromec and with free plastocyanin

Cross-linking of horse-heart cytochromec (cyt) and French bean plastocyanin (pc), promoted by a carbodiimide, yields the covalent complex cyt/pc, in which the basic (positively charged) patch around the surface-exposed heme edge in the former protein and the acidic (negatively charged) patch remote from the copper site in the latter protein abut each other and thus largely neutralize each other's charge and shield each other. Four major fractions of the covalent complex cyt/pc separated by cation-exchange chromatography are structurally similar to one another and to the electrostatic (noncovalent) complex cyt/pc; the fractions have different charges because of different numbers and locations ofN-acylurea groups, by-products of the reaction with carbodiimide. The kinetic studies are done with the first chromatographic fraction, whose net charge and dipole moment could be determined most accurately. The rate constants for electron-transfer reactions of the protein complex with each of its constituent proteins separately were determined by laser flash photolysis, with riboflavin semiquinone as the reductant, at pH 7.0 and an ionic strength from 10 to 500 mM. Electrostatic interactions in the two reactions were treated according to van Leeuwen theory, which stresses the importance ofmonopole-dipole and dipole-dipole forces, in addition to the well-known monopole-monopole force. Semiquantitative analysis of dipolar interactions indicated probable orientation of the diprotein complex and the individual protein in both electron-transfer reactions. The cupriplastocyanin moiety in the cyt(III)/pc(II) complex seems to use its hydrophobic patch for reaction with free ferrocytochromec. Free cupriplastocyanin also seems to use its hydrophobic patch for reaction with the ferrocytochromec moiety in the cyt(II)/pc(II). Protein-protein orientation in electron-transfer reactions is governed by both electrostatic and steric factors.
Influence of temperature on nitrogen ion implantation of Incoloy alloys 908 and 909

Abstract Specimens of Incoloy alloys 908 and 909 were implanted with nitrogen at temperatures of 100 and 400 °C to a dose of 7 × 10 17 ions cm −2 . Scanning Auger multiprobe (SAM) was used to determine the nitrogen concentration depth profiles, from which the retained doses were calculated. Microhardness measurements and pin-on-disk wear testing were performed to evaluate the surface property improvements. The thickness of implanted layers increased by about an order of magnitude when the temperature was elevated from 100 to 400 °C. Higher surface hardness and wear resistance were also obtained in the higher temperature implantation. Transmission electron microscopy images showed distinct microstructural changes and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed the presence of nitrides of titanium, chromium and niobium at the implanted surface.
Adding a positive charge at residue 46 of Drosophila alcohol dehydrogenase increases cofactor specificity for NADP

We previously reported that the D39N mutant of Drosophila alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), in which Asp-39 is replaced with asparagine, has a 60-fold increase in affinity for NADP+ and a 1.5-fold increase in kcat compared to wild-type ADH [Chen et al. (1991) Eur. J. Biochem. 202, 263-267] and proposed that this part of ADH is close to the 2'-phosphate on the ribose moiety of NADP+. Here we report the effect of replacing Ala-46 with an argine residue, and A46R mutant, on binding of NADP+ to ADH and its catalytic efficiency with the NADP+ cofactor, and a modeling of the three-dimensional structure of the NAD(+)-binding region of ADH. The A46R mutant has a 2.5-fold lower Km(app)NADP+ and a 3-fold higher kcat with NADP+ compared to wild-type ADH; binding of NAD+ to the mutant was unchanged and kcat with NAD+ was lowered by about 30%. For the A46R mutant, the ratio of kcat/Km of NAD+ to NADP+ is 85, over ten-fold lower than that for wild-type ADH. Our model of the 3D structure of the NAD(+)-binding region of ADH shows that Ala-46 is over 10 A from the ribose moiety of NAD+, which would suggest that there is little interaction between this residue and NAD+ and explain why its mutation to arginine has little effect on NAD+ binding. However, the positive charge at residue 46 can neutralize some of the coulombic repulsion between Asp-39 and the 2'-phosphate on the ribose moiety of NADP+, which would increase its affinity for the A46R mutant. We also constructed a double mutant, D39N/A46R mutant, which we find has a 30-fold lower Km(app)NADP+ and 8-fold higher kcat with NADP+ as a cofactor compared to wild-type ADH; binding of NAD+ to this double mutant was lowered by 5-fold and kcat was increased by 1.5-fold. As a result, kcat/Km for the double mutant was the same for NAD+ and NADP+. The principle effect of the two mutations in ADH is to alter its affinity for the nucleotide cofactor; kcat decreases slightly in A46R with NAD+ and remains unchanged or increases in the other mutants.
Future Integrated Systems Concept for Preventing Aircraft Loss-of-Control Accidents

Loss of control remains one of the largest contributors to aircraft fatal accidents worldwide. Aircraft loss-of-control accidents are highly complex in that they can result from numerous causal and contributing factors acting alone or (more often) in combination. Hence, there is no single intervention strategy to prevent these accidents. This paper presents future system concepts and research directions for preventing aircraft loss-of-control accidents.
Utility interdependence when personality types interact

Provides an alternative to the usual approach of economists of simply assuming human nature and human economic behaviour to be of a particular type. Economics generally provides little explanation for the formation of preferences. Psychological motivation variables for giving and receiving will be analysed which define an individual′s personality type in terms of his altruistic or non‐altruistic orientation. Presents a description of these psychological variables and the manner in which they are measured. An individual′s giving‐receiving motivational patterns are then incorporated into his utility function, and a theoretical analysis is made of the optimal level of transfers when various personality types interact.
Computerized detection of breast cancer on automated breast ultrasound imaging of women with dense breasts

Purpose: Develop a computer-aided detection method and investigate its feasibility for detection of breast cancer in automated 3D ultrasound images of women with dense breasts. Methods: The HIPAA compliant study involved a dataset of volumetric ultrasound image data, “views,” acquired with an automated U-Systems Somo•V® ABUS system for 185 asymptomatic women with dense breasts (BI-RADS Composition/Density 3 or 4). For each patient, three whole-breast views (3D image volumes) per breast were acquired. A total of 52 patients had breast cancer (61 cancers), diagnosed through any follow-up at most 365 days after the original screening mammogram. Thirty-one of these patients (32 cancers) had a screening-mammogram with a clinically assigned BI-RADS Assessment Category 1 or 2, i.e., were mammographically negative. All software used for analysis was developed in-house and involved 3 steps: (1) detection of initial tumor candidates, (2) characterization of candidates, and (3) elimination of false-positive candidates. Performance was assessed by calculating the cancer detection sensitivity as a function of the number of “marks” (detections) per view. Results: At a single mark per view, i.e., six marks per patient, the median detection sensitivity by cancer was 50.0% (16/32) ± 6% for patients with a screening mammogram-assigned BI-RADS category 1 or 2—similar to radiologists’ performance sensitivity (49.9%) for this dataset from a prior reader study—and 45.9% (28/61) ± 4% for all patients. Conclusions: Promising detection sensitivity was obtained for the computer on a 3D ultrasound dataset of women with dense breasts at a rate of false-positive detections that may be acceptable for clinical implementation.
The Evolution of Microprocessor Design in Response to Silicon Process Evolution

The interaction between silicon process evolution and design methodology and CAD tools for microprocessor technology will be described since the first commercial microprocessors to the present time.
Continuous thermodynamics of phase equilibria using a multivariate distribution function and an equation of state

The dew points of 40 multicomponent fluid mixtures including gas condensates, absorber oils, crude oils, synthetic aromatic heavy oils, and coal liquids were calculated using the method of continuous thermodynamics and the Patel-Teja cubic equation of state. These multicomponent mixtures were characterized by a log normal distribution function in two variables: the boiling point and specific gravity in this work. Comparisons were made with the case when a single variable distribution function is employed and also with the method of Cotterman et al. In general, the new method leads to excellent predictions of both phase equilibria and liquid densities.
Titration calorimetry as a binding assay for lipid-binding proteins

Titration calorimetry has been evaluated as a method for obtaining binding constants and thermodynamic parameters for the cytosolic fatty acid- and lipid-binding proteins. An important feature of this method was its ability to accurately determine binding constants in a non-perturbing manner. The equilibrium was not perturbed, since there was no requirement to separate bound and free ligand in order to obtain binding parameters. Also, the structure of the lipidprotein complex was not perturbed, since native ligands were used rather than non-native analogues. As illustrated for liver fatty acid-binding protein, the method distinguished affinity classes whose dissociation constants differed by an order of magnitude or less. It also distinguished endothermic from exothermic binding reactions, as illustrated for the binding of two closely related bile salts to ileal lipid-binding protein. The main limitations of the method were its relatively low sensitivity and the difficulty working with highly insoluble ligands, such as cholesterol or saturated longchain fatty acids. However, the signal-to-noise ratio was improved by manipulating the buffer conditions, as illustrated for oleate binding to rat intestinal fatty acid binding protein. Binding parameters are reported for oleate interactions with several wild-type and mutant lipid-binding proteins from intestine. Where possible, the binding parameters obtained from calorimetry were compared with results obtained from fluorescence and Lipidex binding assays of comparable systems.
Ethyl Iodide Decomposition on Cu(1 1 1) and Cu(2 2 1)

Abstract Ethyl iodide decomposition on the Cu(1 1 1) and Cu(2 2 1) surfaces has been studied using thermal desorption spectroscopy and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. On both surfaces ethyl iodide decomposes to produce ethyl groups and adsorbed iodine atoms. The ethyl groups decompose by β-hydride elimination to desorb as ethylene leaving adsorbed iodine atoms. The kinetics of β-hydride elimination on the Cu(2 2 1) surface are similar to those on the Cu(1 1 0) surface suggesting that the ethyl groups are reacting at the (1 1 0) step edges rather than on the (1 1 1) terraces. Vibrational spectra of the iodine atoms remaining on the surfaces after decomposition of the ethyl groups have been used to probe the iodine binding sites and to corroborate predictions based on density functional theory that the iodine atoms bind to the tops of the step edges. Iodine atoms on Cu(1 1 1) exhibit vibrational modes at 130 and 235 cm−1 that we assign empirically to in-plane and out-of-plane vibrations, respectively, of iodine atoms adsorbed at fcc sites on the (1 1 1) plane. On the stepped Cu(2 2 1) surface an additional peak appears at 80 cm−1 arising from iodine adsorbed at the step edges. The fact that this mode is at a lower frequency than the in-plane mode on the Cu(1 1 1) surface suggests that the iodine atom is adsorbed at the top of the step edge where its motion is unconstrained. These experimental results are consistent with the theoretical prediction that iodine atoms adsorb at the top of the step edges on the Cu(2 2 1) surface.
A meta-analytic review of depression prevention programs for children and adolescents: factors that predict magnitude of intervention effects

In this meta-analytic review, the authors summarized the effects of depression prevention programs for youth as well as investigated participant, intervention, provider, and research design features associated with larger effects. They identified 47 trials that evaluated 32 prevention programs, producing 60 intervention effect sizes. The average effect for depressive symptoms from pre-to-posttreatment (r = .15) and pretreatment to-follow-up (r = .11) were small, but 13 (41%) prevention programs produced significant reductions in depressive symptoms and 4 (13%) produced significant reductions in risk for future depressive disorder onset relative to control groups. Larger effects emerged for programs targeting high-risk individuals, samples with more females, samples with older adolescents, programs with a shorter duration and with homework assignments, and programs delivered by professional interventionists. Intervention content (e.g., a focus on problem-solving training or reducing negative cognitions) and design features (e.g., use of random assignment and structured interviews) were unrelated to effect sizes. Results suggest that depression prevention efforts produce a higher yield if they incorporate factors associated with larger intervention effects (e.g., selective programs with a shorter duration that include homework).
The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the prostacyclin analog 15AU81 in the anesthetized beagle dog

Abstract 15AU81, a tricyclic benzindene analog of prostacyclin, is currently under preclinical evaluation as a potential treatment for congestive heart failure. The cardiovascular effects of 15AU81 were evaluated in anesthetized beagle dogs given 4-h infusions at rates of either 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 μg/kg/min. Plasma samples taken from these dogs prior to, during, and after the infusion, were analyzed for 15AU81 by a radioimmunoassay (RIA). This report integrates the vasodilatory effects and plasma concentration data from the 15AU81 infusion study. Pharmacokinetic analysis of mean data indicated a biphasic decay of 15AU81 in plasma, with an initial half-life of approximately 2 min, and a terminal half-life of approximately 20 min. Visual inspection of plots of drug effect and drug concentration against time indicated a close relationship between plasma concentration of 15AU81 and the onset of decreases in total peripheral resistance (TPR) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). In general, the decreases in TPR and PVR induced by 15AU81 were maintained during infusion. Concentration-effect plots indicated some hysteresis in TPR vs plasma concentrations of 15AU81 after termination of the infusion; possible explanations for this hysteresis include the presence of saturating concentrations of 15AU81 at the effect site, with a delay in the clearance of 15AU81 from the effect site compared to its clearance from plasma, and/or the presence of active metabolites at the effect site. A fit of the TPR and PVR data to the E max pharmacodynamic model predicted that the maximum decrease in TPR achievable with 15AU81 in anesthetized dogs was 66%, and that the concentration of 15AU81 producing 50% of the maximum effect (EC 50 ) was 8.6 ng/ml. Similarly, the predicted maximum reduction in PVR achievable with 15AU81 in dogs was estimated to be 22%, and the EC 50 value was estimated to be 11.3 ng/ml. Thus, while the magnitude of the effect of 15AU81 on TPR and PVR may be different, the similar EC 50 values suggested that there may be no selectivity of 15AU81 for the pulmonary or peripheral circulation in the normotensive, anesthetized dog.
Neoplastic transformation in the planarian: II. Ultrastructure of malignant reticuloma

Cadmium and phorbol ester induced tumorigenesis in the planarian, Dugesia dorotocephala, develops as a cocarcinogenic process involving initiation and promotion in the progression of neoplastic disease. Treatment of intact planarians with sublethal concentrations of cadmium sulfate and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) induced a type of infiltrating tumor that proved to be potentially lethal. Surgical transplantation of such tumorous tissues into otherwise healthy planarians resulted in the same histopathological progression to lethality, which confirmed the metastatic nature of the neoplasia. Electron microscopic studies revealed that both the chemically-induced and the transplantation-based tumors involved, exclusively, the proliferation and differentiation of abnormal reticular cells, referred to as reticuloma cells. Reticular cells normally are ameboid, phagocytic, and are thought to provide the planarian with a phylogenetic predecessor of an immune surveillance system. A considerable incidence of mitosis was observed within the tumor areas; and the sequence of differentiation, from transformed stem cells to mature but nonfunctional reticuloma cells, was elucidated. This profile of differentiation supports the concept of cellular derivation via stem cell dynamics as opposed to dedifferentiation. A variety of ultrastructural abnormalities were characterized: several of which tend to substantiate the anaplastic quality of the reticuloma, while others are more specifically diagnostic for malignancy. These findings further extend the potential usefulness of the planarian malignant reticuloma as a model system for the study of neoplastic stem cell diseases.
Clinical Evaluation of Priming Solutions for Pump Oxygenator Perfusion

Various hemodilution agents are now used routinely to prime heart-lung machines for cardiac operations. Hemodilution has resulted in considerable conservation of blood as well as diminution of plasma and corpuscle damage by decreasing the concentration of these elements in blood during extracorporeal circulation. Controversy has existed regarding the relative efficacy of various hemodilution solutions. This study covers 68 patients, divided into three groups, for whom hemodilution was done as follows: (1) the pump was primed with a 5% dextrose solution containing no colloid; (2) Ringer's lactate solution containing approximately 1% low-molecular-weight dextran was used; and (3) a new plasma expander, hydroxyethyl starch, was used as the colloid component of an electrolyte solution. Evaluations and comparisons were carried out for flow rates, blood pressure, urine volume, hematocrit, BUN, blood loss, clotting factors, and the patient's clinical course with regard to pulmonary and neurological complications. We conclude that a colloid is beneficial, especially with longer perfusions.
A fast algorithm for vortex blob interactions

Abstract We introduce a new fast summation a algorithm which, unlike previous methods, is not restricted to potential functions. Its asymptotic complexity is O ( nH d+1 ), where n is the number of blobs, H is the level of refinement, and d is the domain dimension. For a nonsingular kernel the complexity reduces to O ( n ). We present a complete error and complexity analysis of the algorithm and describe its implementation. As an example we use the vortex blob method to simulate vortex sheet motion in incompressible flow.
AB INITIO SINGLE- AND MULTIPLE-SCATTERING EXAFS DEBYE-WALLER FACTORS : RAMAN AND INFRARED DATA

The extended x-ray-absorption fine structure (EXAFS) Debye-Waller factor is an essential term appearing in the EXAFS equation that accounts for the molecular structural and thermal disorder of a sample. Single- and multiple-scattering Debye-Waller factors must be known accurately to obtain quantitative agreement between theory and experiment. Since the total number of fitting parameters that can be varied is limited in general, data cannot support fitting of all relevant multiple-scattering Debye-Waller factors. Calculation of the Debye-Waller factors is typically done using the correlated Debye approximation, where a single parameter (Debye temperature) is varied. However, this procedure cannot account in general for Debye-Waller factors in materials with heterogeneous bond strengths, such as biomolecules. As an alternative procedure in this work, we calculate them ab initio directly from the known or hypothetical three-dimensional structure. In this paper we investigate the adequacy of various computational approaches for calculating vibrational structure within small molecules. Detailed EXAFS results will be presented in a subsequent paper. Analytical expressions are derived for multiple scattering Debye-Waller factors, based on the plane wave approximation. Semiempirical Hamiltonians and the ab initio density functional method are used to calculate the normal mode eigenfrequencies and eigenvectors. These data are used to calculate all single- and multiple-scattering Debye-Waller factors up to a four atom cluster. These ab initio Debye-Waller factors are compared to those calculated from experimental infrared and Raman frequencies. As an example comparison with experimental EXAFS data from ${\mathrm{GeCl}}_{4}, {\mathrm{GeH}}_{3}\mathrm{Cl}$ gases are also reported. Good agreement is observed for all cases tested.
Paleobiogeographic Changes at the Pleistocene–Holocene Boundary near Pintwater Cave, Southern Nevada

In 1996, approximately 70,000 mammal and lizard bones were recovered from Pintwater Cave in the northern Mojave Desert of southern Nevada. These bones date between 32,000 and 7350 14C yr B.P. Between 32,000 and 10,100 14C yr B.P. the local fauna consisted of a mix of xeric- and cool/mesic-adapted species. Ochotona princeps and Thomomys talpoides then occupied the region, although these animals were extirpated by the onset of the middle Holocene. Sauromalus obesus and Dipodomys deserti probably migrated to the region during the latest Pleistocene. Dipsosaurus dorsalis entered the Pintwater Cave record after 8000 14C yr B.P. Consistent with climatic interpretations for the northern Great Basin, these data suggest a cool and moist latest Pleistocene climate for the northern Mojave Desert. In contrast to the northern Great Basin, however, this region experienced predictable summer precipitation coupled with increasingly warmer winters by 10,100 14C yr B.P. In both regions, the warm middle Holocene began ca. 8300 14C yr B.P. However, whereas the northern Great Basin probably experienced warm and dry conditions at that time, the northern Mojave Desert remained warm with relatively predictable summer precipitation. The modern northern Mojave Desert biota probably was not established until after 8300 14C yr B.P.
Criteria for the emergence and evolution of life in the solar system

During the past years we have explored most of the bodies of the solar system by means of the Apollo, Venera, Viking, Voyager, and other space missions. We are now in a better position to be able to compare the conditions of other planets and satellites with those of the Earth in order to determine what is unique about our planet which permitted the emergence and evolution of life on it. On the basis of this and other available scientific information we have arrived at the conclusion that there are at least some twentyfive specific conditions or requirements which have to be fulfilled in order for life as we know it to appear and evolve in a planetary system such as ours. Most of these necessary conditions or requirements are mutually interdependent, but in order to discuss their role in depth they have been divided into five major general areas which are discussed in some detail herein.
Molecular cloning and sequencing of a cDNA encoding a human α1A adrenergic receptor

Summary DNA from a rat hippocampus cDNA library and sets of highly degenerate oligonucleotide primers directed toward conserved regions of previosly cloned G-protein receptors were used in the polymerase chain reaction to selectively amplify and clone new members of this gene family. A human hippocampus cDNA library was screened with a 610 base pair fragment generated by PCR and a cDNA clone, H318/3, was isolated. The deduced amino acid sequence of this clone encoded a protein of 501 amino acids that showed strong sequence homology to previously cloned G-protein receptors. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed clone H318/3 was 78% homologous to a rat α 1A adrenergic receptor with homology being 95% when comparisons were made in the region that lies between the first to the seventh transmembrane domains. Based on this high degree of sequence homology, we conclude that clone H318/3 represents a cDNA for a human α 1A adrenergic receptor.
Adverse Events: Root Causes and Latent Factors

This article describes the process of root cause analysis (RCA), the theories of error that underlie the concept of systemic or latent factors that allow errors to occur or to be propagated without correction; the difference between the process in health care and those found in high-reliability organizations; and suggests some ways to augment the standard health care RCA into a more robust and helpful process.
Identification of a Modular Pathogenicity Island That Is Widespread among Urease-Producing Uropathogens and Shares Features with a Diverse Group of Mobile Elements

Pathogenicity islands (PAIs) are a specific group of genomic islands that contribute to genomic variability and virulence of bacterial pathogens. Using a strain-specific comparative genomic hybridization array, we report the identification of a 94-kb PAI, designated ICEPm1, that is common to Proteus mirabilis, Providencia stuartii, and Morganella morganii. These organisms are highly prevalent etiologic agents of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (caUTI), the most common hospital acquired infection. ICEPm1 carries virulence factors that are important for colonization of the urinary tract, including a known toxin (Proteus toxic agglutinin) and the high pathogenicity island of Yersinia spp. In addition, this PAI shares homology and gene organization similar to the PAIs of other bacterial pathogens, several of which have been classified as mobile integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs). Isolates from this study were cultured from patients with caUTI and show identical sequence similarity at three loci within ICEPm1, suggesting its transfer between bacterial genera. Screening for the presence of ICEPm1 among P. mirabilis colonizing isolates showed that ICEPm1 is more prevalent in urine isolates compared to P. mirabilis strains isolated from other body sites (P < 0.0001), further suggesting that it contributes to niche specificity and is positively selected for in the urinary tract.
The microwave spectrum, conformation, and vibration-rotation interaction of N-cyanopyrrolidine

Abstract The microwave spectrum of N -cyanopyrrolidine was observed and assigned in the ground and nine excited states. In the lowest two states, split 3.9 cm −1 by a ring-puckering, nitrogen-inversion motion, the rotational constants are (for v = 0) A = 6585.05 ± 3.83, B = 1919.54 ± 0.05, C = 1583.84 ± 0.05, and (for v = 1) A = 6575.31 ± 6.01, B = 1922.37 ± 0.08, C = 1586.44 ± 0.08 MHz. Deviations from rigid rotor behavior in the lowest two states were described and analyzed by inclusion of a Hamiltonian term coupling the states via the internal vibrational angular momentum. The observed conformation of the five-membered ring system was found to be the envelope equatorial form. The tunneling motion which interconverts equivalent conformers has been discussed, and the qualitative nature of the potential energy surface has been described and compared to the parent unsubstituted molecule.
The Opacity Project - Equation of State

The equation of state used in the opacity calculations of the Opacity Project is described briefly
Ex vivo repair of renal artery aneurysms

Objective Renal artery aneurysms (RAAs) are rare but remain challenging lesions when treatment is required. Endovascular techniques may be useful in selected, more proximal lesions with amenable morphology, but open surgical repair is often required for more distal, anatomically complex hilar RAAs that often have several branches and unfavorable anatomy. This study reviewed a single-center experience with ex vivo repair of 14 of these more complex, distal RAAs. Methods The records of 14 consecutive patients having ex vivo RAA repair between 1997 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, operative details, and blood pressure and renal function status were recorded. Graft patency was observed with renal duplex sonography. Results Fourteen hilar RAAs were repaired in 10 women and 4 men with a mean age of 54 years. Hypertension was present in 12 (86%). Preoperative renal dysfunction was present in two (14%). Aneurysm size averaged 2.9 cm. Six RAAs (43%) were symptomatic with flank or abdominal pain. Ex vivo repair was performed in all cases with use of saphenous vein for renal-renal bypass. No patient had pelvic autotransplantation or concomitant aortic reconstruction. Ex vivo RAA repair was technically successful in 12 cases; two patients required nephrectomy. Two patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency had improvement postoperatively, but hypertension was clinically unchanged in all patients. No patient required postoperative dialysis. Duplex sonography documented continued graft patency in the 12 technically successful cases during a mean follow-up of 19 months. Conclusions Open ex vivo surgical repair with renal-renal bypass is a successful and durable treatment for complex distal RAAs that require repair. These procedures had low morbidity and mortality and an acceptable rate of renal function preservation. Blood pressure control in these patients did not change significantly after RAA repair.
Ka-band extended interaction klystrons (EIKs) for satellite communication equipment

Summary form only given. The VKA2400 series of Ka-band EIKs (extended interaction klystrons), for use in satellite communications, are described. They are fixed tuned, wide-bandwidth, permanent magnet focussed amplifiers operating in the 26.5 GHz to 35 GHz range. These flexible devices are capable of producing continuous wave power over 1000 W. Instantaneous bandwidths over 600 MHz are available. The unique multi-gap feature of the EIK significantly increases efficiency compared to a conventional single gap klystron at Ka-band. Electronic efficiencies (excluding collector depression) up to 28% have been achieved. Performance data on the Ka-band EIK is presented, enabling the system engineer to confidently characterize system performance.
The rate of soil reduction as affected by levels of methyl parathion and 2,4-D

Abstract A simple technique was demonstrated for determining the potential for synthetic organics to stress microbial populations. Oxidized Crowley and Cecil soil materials were amended with varying concentrations of 2,4‐D and methyl parathion, flooded, and then analyzed for changes in pH, redox potential, and levels of soluble plus exchangeable Fe, Mn, and Zn, all of which may be directly or indirectly influenced by the activity of soil microorganisms. At the concentrations tested (up to 75 ppm), there was little effect of 2,4‐D, but methyl parathion apparently did affect microbial activity contributing to changes in the measured soil properties upon flooding. This approach may be a useful technique for screening various compounds for their potential to stress microbial activity that, for many researchers, would be easier than direct observations of microbial parameters such as population numbers and classifications, and enzyme levels.
Bioethics and Self-Governance: The Lessons of the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights

The following article analyzes the process of conception, elaboration, and adoption of the Universal Declaration of Bioethics and Human Rights, and reflects on the lessons it might hold for public bioethics on the international level. The author was involved in the process at a variety of levels: he provided advice to the IBC on behalf of the President's Council of Bioethics; he served as the U.S. representative to UNESCO's Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee; and led the U.S. Delegation in the multilateral negotiation of Government experts that culminated in the adoption of the declaration in its final form. The author is currently serving a 4-year term as a member of UNESCO's International Bioethics Committee.
Toward a Social History ofArchaeology in the United States, by Thomas C. Patterson. Harcourt Brace College Publishers, Fort Worth, 1995

This volume, one of the initial publications in the Harcourt Brace "Case Studies in Archaeology" series edited by Jeffrey Quilter, is designed, the editor writes, for broad appeal as an inexpensive textbook for students enrolled in beginning and intermediate courses in anthropology, archaeology, history, and related disciplines. The books in this series focus upon selected areas of archaeology, including method and theory. Quilter states the truism that "archaeologists have not done a very good job in discussing the history of their own discipline" (p. vi). The series, therefore, is also designed to address this issue.
Regions, networks: Interpreting functional neuroimaging data

The subtraction and covariance paradigms are two analytic techniques used with functional neuroimaging data. The first assumes that a brain region participating in a task should show altered neural activity (relative to a control task). The second assumes that tasks are mediated by networks of interacting regions.Images of mind attempts to link results from the subtraction paradigm with a network interpretation that could have been more explicitly done using the covariance paradigm.
A Finite Element Model for Spherical Debris Denting in Heavily Loaded Contacts

The objective of this study is to develop models to investigate the effects of contaminants (debris denting process) in heavily loaded rolling and sliding contacts. A dynamic time dependent finite element model (FEM) was developed to determine the elastic-plastic deformation and contact force generated between the mating surfaces and a spherical debris as debris passes through the contact region. The FEA model was used to obtain the effects of various parameters such as debris sizes, material properties, friction coefficients, applied loads, and surface speeds on the elastic-plastic deformation and contact force of the system. The FEM was used to predict debris and mating surfaces deformations as a function of debris size, material properties, friction coefficient, applied load, and surface speed. Using the FEM, a parametric study demonstrated that material properties (i.e., modulus of elasticity, yield strength, ultimate strength and Poisson's ratio) and friction coefficients play significant roles on the height and width of dents on the mating surfaces. For lower friction coefficients (μ d <0.3) the debris and mating surfaces slip more easily relative to one another and therefore the debris has lower aspect ratio. As friction coefficient is increased the debris and mating surfaces stick to one another and therefore the debris deforms less and has higher aspect ratio. The results indicate that the pressure generated between the debris and mating surfaces is high enough to plastically deform the debris and mating surfaces and cause a permanent dent on the surfaces and cause residual stresses around the dent. Based on the FEM results, a dry contact model (DCM) was developed to allow similar analyses as the FEM, however, in significantly shorter computational time.
Resolution enhancement of video sequences with adaptively weighted low-resolution images and simultaneous estimation of the regularization parameter

In many imaging systems, the resolution of the detector array of the camera is not sufficiently high for a particular application. Furthermore, the capturing process introduces additive noise and the point spread function of the lens and the effects of the finite size of the photo-detectors further degrade the acquired video frames. The goal of resolution enhancement is to estimate a high-resolution image from a sequence of low-resolution images while also compensating for the degradations. We propose a technique for image resolution enhancement with adaptively weighted low-resolution images (channels) and simultaneous estimation of the regularization parameter. The weight coefficients work as the cross-channel fidelity to each low-resolution image, while the regularization parameter acts as the within-channel balance between data and prior model for each channel. Experimental results are presented and conclusions are drawn.
A Mouse Model for Characterization of Gastrointestinal Colonization Rates Among Environmental Aeromonas Isolates

The colonization rates of 10 different environmental Aeromonas isolates were determined using a novel mouse–streptomycin pretreatment method. As demonstrated, alterations to the colon flora of mice pretreated with streptomycin allowed transient colonization by bacterial species normally excluded by host competition. A novel procedure is described for determining the colonization abilities of Aeromonas isolates under these conditions. The colonization rates of A.salmonicida, A. encheleia, and A. allosaccharophila were either negative or occurred randomly at low levels with respect to concentrations of the dosage consumed by the animals. In contrast, A. hydrophila, A. veronii biovar sobria, and A. caviae exhibited relatively high rates of mouse colon tissue colonization.
Competitive pricing in European hotels

This chapter examines the pricing, demand (occupancy), and revenue per available room (RevPAR) dynamics of European hotels for the period 2006–2007. The importance of understanding the pricing behavior of direct competitors is critical to effective strategy formulation and meaningful industry analysis. Nevertheless, existing demand studies miss a critical link to local market dynamics. This study offers an alternative approach to examining competitive set pricing behavior that yields insights into the inelasticity of lodging demand. The results of this study of over 3,000 European hotel observations reveal that hotels that offered average daily rates (ADRs) above those of their direct competitors had lower comparative occupancies but higher relative RevPARs. The observed pattern of demand and revenue behavior was consistent for hotels in all market segments from luxury to economy. Country-specific analyses reveal a similar pattern, with more volatility in the results for hotels in Spain and Italy. Overall, the results suggest that the best way for a hotel to have higher revenue performance than its competitive group is to maintain higher rates. The results of this study support the position that hotel operators who resist pressures to undercut competitor's prices may be better served with higher revenues.
Coupling and detection of infinitely long, crossed wires

The coupling and detection problem for two orthogonal, infinitely long, identical, nontouching, thin wires in a homogeneous, isotropic medium is treated in terms of numerical approximations. Numerical results are presented. The MOM current solution is plotted against the zero- and first-order approximations for the x-directed wire. >
Effect of Respiratory Gating on Quantifying PET Images of Lung Cancer

We have developed a new technique to gate lung 18F-FDG PET images in synchronization with the respiratory motion to reduce smearing due to breathing and improve quantitation of 18F-FDG uptake in lung lesions. Methods: A camera-based respiratory gating system, the real-time position management (RPM), is used to monitor the respiratory cycle. The RPM provides a trigger to the PET scanner to initiate the gating cycle. Each respiratory cycle is divided into discrete bins triggered at a defined amplitude or phase within the patient’s breathing motion, into which PET data are acquired. The acquired data within the time bins correspond to different lesion positions within the breathing cycle. The study includes 5 patients with lung cancer. Results: Measurements of the lesions’ volumes in the gated mode showed a reduction of up to 34% compared with that of the nongated measurement. This reduction in the lesion volume has been accompanied by an increase in the intensity in the 18F-FDG signal per voxel. This finding has resulted in an improvement in measurement of the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), which increased in 1 patient by as much as 159%. The total lesion glycolysis, defined as the product of the SUVmax and the lesion volume, was also measured in gated and nongated modes and showed a consistency between the 2 measurements. Conclusion: We have shown that image smearing can be reduced by gating 18F-FDG PET images in synchronization with the respiratory motion. This technique allows a more accurate definition of the lesion volume and improves the quantitation specific activity of the tracer (in this case, 18F-FDG), which are distorted because of the breathing motion.