cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An electron spin echo phase shift observed in photosynthetic algae: Possible evidence for dynamic radical pair interactions

Abstract An unexpected electron spin echo phase shift has been observed for one of the electron spin polarized EPR signals which is detected within 30–40 ns of laser excitation of photosynthetic algae. The phase shift phenomenon can be explained by assuming dynamic radical-radical interactions present during the electron spin echo pulse sequence.
Determining Real Estate Licensee Income

This article examines the determinants of real estate licensee income using a 1997 survey of Texas real estate licensees. The factors having a positive effect on licensee income include: (1) number...
Heavy nuclei synthesized in gamma-ray burst outflows as the source of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays

Recent measurements by the Pierre Auger Observatory suggest that the composition of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) becomes dominated by heavy nuclei at high energies. However, until now there has been no astrophysical motivation for considering a source highly enriched in heavy elements. Here we demonstrate that the outflows from gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) may indeed be composed primarily of nuclei with masses A ∼ 40–200, which are synthesized as hot material expands away from the central engine. In particular, if the jet is magnetically dominated (rather than a thermally driven fireball) its low entropy enables heavy elements to form efficiently. Adopting the millisecond protomagnetar model for the GRB central engine, we show that heavy nuclei both are synthesized in protomagnetar winds and can in principle be accelerated to energies 10 20 eV in the shocks or regions of magnetic reconnection that are responsible for powering the GRB. Similar results may apply to accretion-powered GRB models if the jet originates from a magnetized disc wind. Depending on the precise distribution of nuclei synthesized, we predict that the average primary mass may continue to increase beyond Fe group elements at the highest energies, possibly reaching the A ≈ 90 (zirconium), A ≈ 130 (tellurium) or even A ≈ 195 (platinum) peaks. Future measurements of the UHECR composition at energies 10 20 eV can thus confirm or constrain our
Interlocal Agreements as Collaborations: An Empirical Investigation of Impetuses, Norms, and Success

Interlocal agreements (ILAs) have long been a useful tool for municipal and county governments to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of local government services. Yet although they have a long history in practice, there is little empirical study of the impetus and success of ILAs, especially on a statewide basis. This study presents results from a statewide survey of ILAs in Iowa created in the period, 1993-2004. Results suggest that ILAs are created to increase the effectiveness as well as efficiency of local services. The impetus for ILAs provides a focusing effect. Moreover, equitable sharing of benefits is important for the success of ILAs, and population and type of service also matter.
Educational outreach efforts of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI)

An important challenge to the ocean sciences community is to engage ocean scientists in conveying the excitement of their research to ocean sciences educators, K-12 and post-secondary students, and the general public. This paper will review and preview the educational outreach efforts of MBARI; these efforts include, but are not limited to, Cruising to the Classroom expedition webpages, an active internship program, a strong link to a nonformal educational institution (the Monterey Bay Aquarium) and working with educators to facilitate access to near-real-time data. Results from the Education and Research: Testing Hypotheses (EARTH) workshop will be presented during the talk.
Cardioprotective effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone agonist after myocardial infarction

Whether the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) axis exerts cardioprotective effects remains controversial; and the underlying mechanism(s) for such actions are unclear. Here we tested the hypothesis that growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) directly activates cellular reparative mechanisms within the injured heart, in a GH/IGF-1 independent fashion. After experimental myocardial infarction (MI), rats were randomly assigned to receive, during a 4-week period, either placebo (n = 14), rat recombinant GH (n = 8) or JI-38 (n = 8; 50 µg/kg per day), a potent GHRH agonist. JI-38 did not elevate serum levels of GH or IGF-1, but it markedly attenuated the degree of cardiac functional decline and remodeling after injury. In contrast, GH administration markedly elevated body weight, heart weight, and circulating GH and IGF-1, but it did not offset the decline in cardiac structure and function. Whereas both JI-38 and GH augmented levels of cardiac precursor cell proliferation, only JI-38 increased antiapoptotic gene expression. The receptor for GHRH was detectable on myocytes, supporting direct activation of cardiac signal transduction. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that within the heart, GHRH agonists can activate cardiac repair after MI, suggesting the existence of a potential signaling pathway based on GHRH in the heart. The phenotypic profile of the response to a potent GHRH agonist has therapeutic implications.
Effect of Electrode Roughness On the Capacitive Behavior of Self-Assembled Monolayers

Analytical gold electrodes were polished mechanically and electrochemically and the true area of the electrode surface was measured by quantitative oxidative/reductive cycling of the electrode. A roughness factor for each electrode was determined from the ratio of the true area to the geometric area. The roughness is fully described by a combination of microscopic roughness (up to tens of nanometers) and macroscopic roughness (on the order of hundreds of nanometers) terms. The electrodes were then derivatized with a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of dodecanethiol or a thioalkane azacrown and characterized by impedance spectroscopy. The behavior of the electrodes was modeled with either a Helmholtz or Randles equivalent circuit (depending on the SAM used) in which the capacitance was replaced with a constant phase element. From the model, an effective capacitance and an alpha factor that quantifies the nonideality of the SAM capacitance was obtained. The effective capacitance divided by the roughness factor yields the capacitance per unit true area, which is only a function of microscopic roughness. The relationship between this capacitance and the alpha factor indicates that microscopic roughness predominantly affects the nonideality of the film while macroscopic roughness predominantly affects the magnitude of the film's capacitance. Understanding the contribution of the electrode topography to the magnitude and ideality of the SAM capacitance is important in the construction of SAM-based capacitive sensors because it predicts the importance of electrode-electrode variations.
HDX workbench: software for the analysis of H/D exchange MS data.

Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) is an established method for the interrogation of protein conformation and dynamics. While the data analysis challenge of HDX-MS has been addressed by a number of software packages, new computational tools are needed to keep pace with the improved methods and throughput of this technique. To address these needs, we report an integrated desktop program titled HDX Workbench, which facilitates automation, management, visualization, and statistical cross-comparison of large HDX data sets. Using the software, validated data analysis can be achieved at the rate of generation. The application is available at the project home page http://hdx.florida.scripps.edu.
Structure and Properties of Synoptic-Scale Wave Disturbances in the Equatorial Western Pacific

Abstract A compositing technique is used to obtain the average structure of 18 disturbances which traversed an area in the equatorial western Pacific during the wet season (July–September) of 1967. Principal emphasis is placed on the wave properties in the triangular area described by Ponape, Kwajalein and Eniwetok within which it was possible to measure divergence and vertical motion and to compute moisture and heat budgets. Meridional wind maxima of nearly opposite phase occurred in the lower and upper troposphere. Negative temperature deviations were found in the vicinity of the wave trough at low and high levels; positive deviations were observed at intermediate levels. Highest relative humidities occurred in the trough region. This was also the region of strongest upward motion and greatest rainfall and cloud amount. The maximum upward velocity of 2.5 cm sec−1 was found at 300 mb. Convergence was strongest in the sub-cloud layer; divergence was concentrated near 175 mb. The maximum anticyclonic vorti...
Study of defects in diamond films with electron paramagnetic resonance measurements

Abstract Defects in diamond thin films, deposited by the filament-assisted chemical vapor deposition process, were studied with electron spin resonance measurements. Depending on growth conditions the films exhibit electron paramagnetic resonance signals with g values of 2.0028 and 2.0019, peak-to-peak linewidths of 4–5 G and spin densities from 1017 to 1019 spins cm−3. These findings are discussed with a new theory, which predicts that certain defects can thermodynamically stabilize diamond over graphite.
Four-wave mixing microscopy of nanostructures

The basics of four-wave mixing (FWM) and recent advances in FWM microscopy are reviewed with a particular emphasis on applications in the field of nanomaterials. The vast progress in nanostructure synthesis has triggered a need for advanced analytical tools suitable to interrogate nanostructures one at a time. The single-nanostructure sensitivity of optical microscopy has solidified the optical approach as a reliable technique for examining the electronic structure of materials at the nanoscale. By zooming in on the individual, optical microscopy has permitted detailed investigations of the linear optical response of nanomaterials such as semiconducting quantum dots and plasmon active nanometals. Besides studying the linear optical properties of nanostructures, optical microscopy has also been used to probe the nonlinear optical properties of nanoscale materials. FWM microscopy, a coherent third-order optical imaging technique, has shown great potential as a tool for investigating the nonlinear optical response of nanostructures. FWM microscopy not only permits the characterization of the nonlinear susceptibility of individual nanostructures, it also offers a route to explore the time-resolved dynamics of electronic and vibrational excitations on single structures. In addition, FWM produces strong signals from nanomaterials that are compatible with fast imaging applications, which holds promise for biological imaging studies based on nanoparticle labels that are not prone to photobleaching.
Space Mission Operations Concept

Developing a Mission Operations Concept for a space mission is a system engineering process. It involves multiple disciplines working together to describe the operational attributes of the flight and ground elements of the mission. This is done in the terms of the operators and the users (recipients of the data from the mission). A space mission operations concept emphasizes the way the mission will be operated and used (operational characteristic). Again, this is done in terms that are understood by the operators of the system and the users (the recipients of the data from the system). The Operational Attributes of a Mission are described by considering nine mission characteristics. These characteristics may be traded for cost and performance attributes of the mission. Developing a Mission Operations Concept is the process through which changes to mission requirements and/or design that will lower the Mission Life Cycle Cost can be identified. The inputs to the Mission Operations Concept include flight, ground and management functions. Mission Operations Concepts are typically generated for nearly all space missions. It is a requirement in many project plans and RFPs that are generated. However, there is not a definition of what is included in a mission operations concept; of what should be considered when generating this operations concept; what the process is or what the products are. This paper will discuss the process of developing a space mission operations concept; the benefits of starting this system engineering task early; the necessary inputs to the process; and the products which are generated. This paper is based on a chapter in a text book that will be published in March 1996 - prior to the NCSC Conference. In addition this process has just started going through an international review which will result in an ISO Standard for a Space Mission Operations Concept checklist. This checklist will describe the inputs, and outputs required to conform to the ISO standard for a space mission operations concept. The paper will include that latest draft of the international standard checklist, and explain the system engineering processes and benefits of generating an operations concept early in the life-cycle of the project, during the study phase, and then maintaining the operations concept throughout the life-cycle of the project.
Dimensions and displacement patterns of the posterior palatal seal

Abstract 1. This study was based on the treatment of 500 patients who required complete maxillary dentures. The last 92 subjects in the series were treated with a standardized experimental procedure to extend the length of a denture farther posteriorly than usual to a second vibrating line. 2. Impressions were made with the head tipped forward at a 30 degree displacement from the vertical plane, and with the tongue held in tension against the lower anterior teeth or a tray handle. 3. The study was based upon laboratory dissection, cineradiology, cephalometric radiology analysis, and clinical examination and treatment. The clinical findings were evaluated during speech, swallowing, and respiratory rest postures. 4. The 92 subjects were examined for a period of two years after completion. The results indicate that 88 per cent of the 74 patients who responded for the twoyear period of reexamination required no modification in denture border length and that the dentures functioned very satisfactorily. 5. The critical factors in achieving successful extension of the posterior border are the 30 ° tipping of the head and the placement of the tongue under tension against the tray handle or against the remaining anterior teeth while the impression material sets.
An NMR Method for Assigning Relative Stereochemistry to β-Hydroxy Ketones Deriving from Aldol Reactions of Methyl Ketones

We describe a simple 1H NMR analysis that permits the stereochemistry of beta-hydroxy ketones to be assigned by visual inspection of the ABX patterns for the alpha-methylene unit of the beta-hydroxy ketone in the 1H NMR spectra. This method has been verified by application to a wide range of beta-hydroxy ketones deriving from aldol reactions of chiral aldehydes with a variety of chiral and achiral methyl ketone enolates (see Tables 1 and 2). The stereochemistry of 54 of these compounds have been assigned by rigorous chemical methods.
Growth enhancement of prolactin-sensitive mammary tumor by periaqueductal gray stimulation.

Abstract The weight of prolactin-insensitive and prolactin-sensitive tumors implanted in female rats was measured upon their sacrifice. The group that received periaqueductal gray (PAG) stimulation subsequent to prolactin-sensitive tumor implantation had statistically higher incidence of enhanced tumor growth than non-PAG stimulated control group (P
Apoptosis in motion. An apical, P35-insensitive caspase mediates programmed cell death in insect cells.

Activation of caspases by proteolytic processing is a critical step during apoptosis in metazoans. Here we use high resolution time lapse microscopy to show a tight link between caspase activation and the morphological events delineating apoptosis in cultured SF21 cells from the moth Spodoptera frugiperda, a model insect system. The principal effector caspase,Sf-caspase-1, is proteolytically activated during SF21 apoptosis. To define the potential role of initiator caspases in vivo, we tested the effect of cell-permeable peptide inhibitors on pro-Sf-caspase-1 processing. Anti-caspase peptide analogues prevented apoptosis induced by diverse signals, including UV radiation and baculovirus infection. IETD-fmk potently inhibited the initial processing of pro-Sf-caspase-1 at the junction (TETD-G) of the large and small subunit, a cleavage that is blocked by inhibitor of apoptosis Op-IAP but not pancaspase inhibitor P35. BecauseSf-caspase-1 was inhibited poorly by IETD-CHO, our data indicated that the protease responsible for the first step in pro-Sf-caspase-1 activation is a distinct apical caspase. Thus, Sf-caspase-1 activation is mediated by a novel, P35-resistant caspase. These findings support the hypothesis that apoptosis in insects, like that in mammals, involves a cascade of caspase activations.
FDIC coverage on bank failures: Cointegration analysis using annual data, 1942-91

The present study empirically investigates whether in the U.S. federal government-provided deposit insurance, which was intended to prevent runs on banks and to protect depositors of modest means, has acted to induce increased bank failures. This issue has been investigated earlier, but only with regression analysis, and it remains unresolved since results vary sharply from one study to the next. By contrast, the present study uses cointegration techniques to investigate this problem. The cointegration analysis finds strong evidence of a cointegrating relationship between the bank failure rate and the extent of central government-provided deposit insurance, as well as other variables. Maximum eigenvalue and trace test results, along with normalized cointegrating vectors and likelihood ratio test results, are provided for examination.
Recognition in the Minor Groove of DNA at 5'-(A,T)GCGC(A,T)-3' by a Four Ring Tripeptide Dimer. Reversal of the Specificity of the Natural Product Distamycin

The tripeptide ImPImP containing alternating imidazole and pyrrole carboxamides specifically binds the designated six base pair site 5'-d(A,T)GCGC(A,T)-3' in the minor groove of DNA. Quantitative footprint titration experiments demonstrate that ImPImP binds the sites 5'-AGCGCT-3' and 5'-TGCGCA-3' with apparent first order binding affinities of 3.8 x 10^5 M^(-1) and 3.6 x 10^5 M^(-1), respectively (25 mM tris acetate, 10 mM NaCl, pH 7.0 and 22 °C). Affinity cleaving experiments with ImPImP-EDTA . Fe reveals equal cleavage on both sides of the 5'-(A,T)GCGC(A,T)-3' site, consistent with a side-by-side antiparallel arrangement of the four ring peptides in the minor groove, This reversal of specificity of the natural product distamycin which prefers to bind pure A,T sequences underscores the utility of 2:1 peptide-DNA models for the design of ligands for sequence-specific recognition in the minor groove of DNA. By extending these peptides to four ring systems, a new lower limit of six base pair binding by 2:1 peptide-DNA complexes has been defined.
Visualization Software for Molecular Assemblies

Software for viewing three-dimensional models and maps of viruses, ribosomes, filaments, and other molecular assemblies is advancing on many fronts. New developments include molecular representations that offer better control over level of detail, lighting that improves the perception of depth, and two-dimensional projections that simplify data interpretation. Programmable graphics processors offer quality, speed, and visual effects not previously possible, while 3D printers, haptic interaction devices, and auto-stereo displays show promise in more naturally engaging our senses. Visualization methods are developed by diverse groups of researchers with differing goals: experimental biologists, database developers, computer scientists, and package developers. We survey recent developments and problems faced by the developer community in bringing innovative visualization methods into widespread use.
A juvenile Edmontosaurus from the late Maastrichtian (Cretaceous) of North America: Implications for ontogeny and phylogenetic inference in saurolophine dinosaurs

Abstract The anatomy of an articulated juvenile specimen of the saurolophine hadrosaurid dinosaur Edmontosaurus annectens , LACM 23504, is described in detail. This individual consists of a partial skull and nearly complete articulated postcranium, collected from upper Maastrichtian strata of the Hell Creek Formation of Montana, USA. This study aims to help understand the ontogenetic morphological changes occurring in the cranium and postcranium of saurolophine hadrosaurids using E. annectens as a case study. Emphasis is placed on those morphological attributes that are ontogenetically variable via comparative osteology between the juvenile and the available adult specimens. It is observed that much of the cranial ontogenetic variation relates to the elongation of the skull and mandible. In the postcranium, most of the ontogenetic variation concentrates in the pectoral and pelvic girdles and the stylopodia. Not all the identified patterns of ontogenetic variation may be generalized to all hadrosaurids. The impact of ontogenetic variation on phylogenetically informative characters of saurolophine hadrosaurids is evaluated. It is concluded that, at least for Edmontosaurus annectens (and perhaps other saurolophine hadrosaurids), most characters used in phylogenetic inference of these animals are not affected by ontogeny. Thus, juvenile specimens are still a source of substantial character data suitable for use in phylogenetic analyses of saurolophine relationships. Nevertheless, it is recommended that ontogenetically variable characters are left as missing data in a character–taxon matrix when only juvenile material is available for a given saurolophine taxon. Scoring those characters based solely on juveniles is likely to decrease the accuracy of the phylogenetic inference.
Meteorological predictions for candidate 2007 Phoenix Mars Lander sites using the Mars Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (MRAMS)

[1] The 2007 Phoenix Mars lander will land in the late afternoon at a high northern latitude in the late northern hemisphere spring season. Various types of Mars atmospheric model simulations (general circulation model, mesoscale, and large-eddy simulation) were used to investigate the plausible range of meteorological conditions that the lander will likely experience during its landed mission and entry, descent, and landing phase. These studies were carried out in support of Phoenix mission atmospheric risk assessment tasks. The model results reveal a circumpolar jet with associated relatively weak transient baroclinic disturbances that appear not to severely impact the potential Phoenix landing sites, even under differing plausible atmospheric dust loading scenarios. At the local time of landing, modeling results indicate vigorous (dry) planetary boundary layer convection extending from the surface to perhaps 5 km.
SYNCHRONIZATION AND TRANSPORT IN AN OSCILLATING PERIODIC POTENTIAL

We study the motion of overdamped Brownian particles in a periodic potential with a temporally oscillating amplitude. First we investigate diffusive motion in the untitled potential. Furthermore, if a constant force is applied, the oscillating potential induces a synchronized motion. The deterministic dynamics becomes in resonance with the potential oscillations. This dynamics gives rise to a transport with extremely low dispersion. We distinguish slow and fast oscillatory driving and give analytical expressions for the mean velocity and effective diffusion.
Baseline ozone results from 1923 to 1955

Baseline total atmospheric ozone values from the year 1923 to 1955 are reported which have been derived from observations of the solar constant made by Smithsonian Institution sites in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Ozone was determined from absorption by the broad, weak Chappuis band near 0.6 microns as measured on 1194 days at Mt. Montezuma, Chile and 970 days at Table Mountain, California. Results show systematic changes on the order of 25 percent in the ozone level at Montezuma with a time scale of 10-20 years, although the previously reported 30 percent decrease between 1920-1930 and 1940-1950 is found to have been erroneous. Comparisons of ozone data with geomagnetic indices and sunspot number show a suggestive correlation of ozone with sunspot number, although the relation is not borne out by comparison of ozone and sunspot cycles, or by Fourier analysis. Comparison of ozone data in the Chappuis band obtained by a modern filter-wheel radiometer with that obtained from a Dobson spectrometer at Mauna Loa Observatory shows Chappuis band measurements to be 14 percent lower.
Device for simulating anterior segment surgery

To provide a more realistic method for practicing anterior segment surgery, a device was designed that incorporates aspects of currently available cadaver globe fixation methods. A Styrofoam head was fitted with a funnel and tubing system that allows for direct application of variable external suction to a globe placed in an artificial socket. Prototypes were tested in a wet lab environment, which demonstrated that this method provides reliable globe fixation and allows for variable control of intraocular pressure during a variety of anterior and posterior segment surgical techniques.
Is a convergently derived muscle-activity pattern driving novel raking behaviours in teleost fishes?

SUMMARY Behavioural differences across prey-capture and processing mechanisms may be governed by coupled or uncoupled feeding systems. Osteoglossomorph and salmonid fishes process prey in a convergently evolved tongue-bite apparatus (TBA), which is musculoskeletally coupled with the primary oral jaws. Altered muscle-activity patterns (MAPs) in these coupled jaw systems could be associated with the independent origin of a novel raking behaviour in these unrelated lineages. Substantial MAP changes in the evolution of novel behaviours have rarely been quantified so we examined MAP differences across strikes, chewing and rakes in a derived raking salmonid, the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss . Electromyography, including activity onset timing, duration, mean amplitude and integrated area from five feeding muscles revealed significant differences between behaviour-specific MAPs. Specifically, early activity onset in the protractor hyoideus and adductor mandibularis muscles characterised raking, congruent with a recent biomechanical model of the component-mechanisms driving the raking preparatory and power-stroke phases. Oncorhynchus raking MAPs were then compared with a phylogenetically derived osteoglossomorph representative, the Australian arowana, Scleropages jardinii . In both taxa, early onset of protractor hyoideus and adductor mandibularis activity characterised the raking preparatory phase, indicating a convergently derived MAP, while more subtle inter-lineage divergence in raking MAPs resulted from onset-timing and duration differences in sternohyoideus and hypaxialis activity. Convergent TBA morphologies are thus powered by convergently derived MAPs, a phenomenon not previously demonstrated in feeding mechanisms. Between lineages, differences in TBA morphology and associated differences in the functional coupling of jaw systems appear to be important factors in shaping the diversification of raking behaviours.
Fired Tsukuba professor’s defense

© 2009 American Institute of Physics, S-0031-9228-0907-220-2 We read the Search and Discovery piece “Physics Nobel Prize to Nambu, Kobayashi, and Maskawa for theories of symmetry breaking” (PHYSICS TODAY, December 2008, page 16) with great interest. Since it addresses history, we feel compelled to point out that work at Harvard University anticipated the cited breakthroughs in both quantum electrodynamics and the electroweak synthesis. Julian Schwinger was undoubtedly the first to solve the problems of renormalization in QED.1 Richard Feynman’s second paper on QED directly precedes Schwinger’s second covariant reformulation of his own theory. It is seriously ahistorical to attribute perturbative QED to only Feynman and Sin-itiro Tomonaga. All three shared the Nobel Prize for QED. We think it was the physics community’s frequent failure to recognize Schwinger’s fundamental contribution to QED that led C. N. Yang to observe, “I believe Schwinger was justifiably unhappy that the younger generation, dazzled by the brilliant performer that Feynman was, have forgotten that it was Schwinger who had first scaled the mighty peak that is known as renormalization.”2 In the 1950s Schwinger went on to lay the groundwork for what eventually became the electroweak synthesis.3 Details were wrong because of the experimental confusion at the time, but his work led directly to that of Sheldon Glashow,4 six years before that of Steven Weinberg. Glashow, Weinberg, and Abdus Salam shared the Nobel Prize for the unification of weak interactions with electromagnetism. But as Peter Higgs correctly noted, “That vacuum expectation values of scalar fields, or ‘vacuons,’ might play such a role in the breaking of symmetries was first noted by Schwinger.”5 Fame is fleeting, and even Nobel Prizes do not confer lasting memory on their recipients. But let’s try to keep the record straight for a new generation of physicists, who may pick up their knowledge of history from PHYSICS TODAY’s pages.
The relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer in African American patients.

Abstract Rationale Airflow obstruction and/or emphysema have been associated with lung cancer risk; however, this relationship and the joint occurrence of these conditions are not well studied in the African American population Objective To describe the prevalence of airflow obstruction and/or emphysema in African Americans with lung cancer and to evaluate their impact on the management and outcome of lung cancer. Methods Medical records of 114 African Americans who had participated in population-based case-control studies of lung cancer and who sought medical care at the Karmanos Cancer Center in Detroit, Michigan, were reviewed. The medical records of these patients were reviewed for demographics, type and stage of lung cancer, spirometry, treatment, and outcome. Computed tomographies (CT) of the chest about the time of the diagnosis of lung cancer were reviewed by a radiologist for evidence of emphysema. COPD was diagnosed when there were changes consistent with emphysema on CTs and/or airflow obstruction by spirometry. Results There were no differences by sex for age at lung cancer diagnosis ( P = .78) and tumor histology ( P = .43). The men were more likely to present at a later stage of lung cancer diagnosis compared with the women ( P = .04), and the women were more likely to have surgery than the men ( P = .03). Overall, 94% of the men and 78% of the women in this population had spirometry and/or CT evidence of COPD. The men were somewhat more likely to have COPD diagnosed by either CT or spirometry than were the women ( P = .06), but the Global Obstructive Lung Disease Classification scores did not differ by sex among those with spirometry-diagnosed COPD ( P = .34). Seventy-eight percent of individuals who did not report a previous diagnosis of COPD had clinical evidence of COPD, whereas 94% of individuals who reported a previous diagnosis of COPD also had clinical evidence of COPD ( P = .03). Among individuals who had both spirometry and CT data available, 29% had CT evidence of emphysema but normal spirometry. No differences in COPD diagnosis ( P = .82) or emphysema diagnosis ( P = .51) were noted by tumor histology. Stage at diagnosis also did not differ by COPD or emphysema diagnosis ( P = .30 and P = .06, respectively), nor did treatment modality ( P = .54 and P = .10, respectively). Patients with lung cancer and with COPD, diagnosed either via spirometry or CT, did not show an increased risk of death compared with patients with lung cancer and without COPD after adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, and stage (hazard ratio, 1.31 [95% CI, 0.68-2.53]). Conclusion There is a high incidence of COPD, emphysema in particular, in a selected group of African American patients with lung cancer. A significant number of these patients were not aware that they had COPD. There was no significant difference in the outcome of lung cancer in relation to the presence or absence of COPD.
A structure for a defense software reuse marketplace

The paper begins by briefly examining the demand for reusable software components and the characteristics of the defense industry which serve to differentiate its needs from those of a broader commercial reuse industry. The approach of providing a single library for defense reuse is examined and discarded. The bulk of the paper examines how a reuse marketplace might be built upon the existence of multiple libraries. The operations of a reuse marketplace are described and possible specializations of libraries are suggested. Finally, the pioneering contributions of a few current efforts are noted.
B cell receptor light chain repertoires show signs of selection with differences between groups of healthy individuals and SLE patients

We have developed a microarray to study the expression of L-chain V genes (VL genes) in healthy and SLE patient peripheral κ- and λ-sorted B cells. In all repertoires tested, one VL gene accounts for over 10% of all gene VL expression, consistent with positive selection acting on L-chains. While a few VL genes were highly expressed in all individuals, most VL genes were expressed at different levels. Some VL genes (5 out of a total of 78) were not detected. We attribute their absence from the repertoire to negative selection. Positive selection and negative selection were also found in SLE repertoires, but expression of VL genes was different; the differences point to less regulation of VL gene repertoires in SLE. Our data shows that VL gene expression is variable and supports a model where the L-chain repertoire is generated by both positive and negative selection on L-chains.
On Demand Heterogeneity in P2P Live Streaming

Peer-to-peer (P2P) technology has become an attractive approach for enabling large-scale video streaming applications, but the factor of users' subjective preferences is usually ignored in such networks. As users have different demands on video quality, we have proposed several schemes [5], [11] to address the design challenge of providing all users uninterrupted video with their desired qualities in case their demands change dynamically. However, there is still a lack of theoretical analysis of how good we can achieve, and what guidelines we should follow when designing schemes in case of demand heterogeneity. To shed more light on demand heterogeneity problem, we model the problem as a resource demand and supply problem. We propose an optimization method to improve bandwidth efficiency through efficient bandwidth allocation. We develop a tiered overlay and a price-rated mechanism to implement cooperation among peers, and present a framework to address the challenge via efficient bandwidth allocation and group cooperation. Through complementary simulations, we evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed framework, and show that it effectively helps existing solutions, such as the Partial Participation Scheme (PPS), achieve better performance.
Determination of mass spectra of non-volatile substances

Ein einfaches Glas-Einlass-System wird beschrieben, das die direkte Einfuhrung von organischen Substanzen in die Ionisationskammer eines Massenspek trometers gestattet. Es ist somit moglich Massenspektren von Substanzen zu bestimmen die man bisher nicht aufnehmen konnte. Beispiele werden angefuhrt.
cGMP inhibits IP3-induced Ca2+ release in intact rat megakaryocytes via cGMP- and cAMP-dependent protein kinases

1 Inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor-mediated Ca2+ release by cGMP was examined in intact rat megakaryocytes, by using a combination of single cell fluorescence microscopy to monitor intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) and flash photolysis of caged second messengers. 2 Sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a nitric oxide (NO) donor, and the hydrolysis-resistant cGMP analogue 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (pCPT-cGMP) inhibited Ca2+ release induced by photolysis of caged IP3. Neither of them affected the rate of Ca2+ removal from the cytoplasm following photolysis of caged Ca2+. 3 Photolysis of the caged NO donor 3-morpholinosydnonimine (SIN-1) during agonist-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations inhibited Ca2+ release without affecting the rate of Ca2+ uptake and/or extrusion. 4 We conclude that the inhibition of IP3-induced Ca2+ release is the principal mechanism of NO-cGMP-dependent inhibition of [Ca2+]i mobilization. 5 IPG, a specific peptide inhibitor of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (cGMP-PK), blocked the inhibitory effect of pCPT-cGMP, indicating that the inhibition of IP3-induced Ca2+ release by pCPT-cGMP is mediated by cGMP-PK. However, the simultaneous application of both IPG and IP20, a specific peptide inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (cAMP-PK), was required to block the inhibitory effect of SNP. These data strongly suggest that NO-cGMP-dependent inhibition of [Ca2+]i mobilization is mediated via the activation of both cGMP-PK and cAMP-PK.
A tether system for cardiovascular studies with the behaving micropig

A tether system has been developed for continuous monitoring of blood pressure in the micropig. The micropig is a suitable model for blood-pressure research because of the similarity of its cardiovascular system to that of humans and because of its sensitivity to high sodium intake. The system consists of a metal boom, attached via a universal joint to a wall 6 ft above floor level, that extends horizontally to the center of the enclosure. A fluid and electronic swivel affixed to the boom is connected to a flexible, hollow, metal tether that descends to a vest worn by the micropig. The vest contains a pressure transducer to which an indwelling arterial catheter is connected via a stopcock. The transducer cable and an infusion line ascend through the interior of the tether to the swivel. The system remains in equilibrium through a system of pulleys and counterweights. Continuous, 24-h recording shows a diurnal variation characterized by higher heart rate but lower blood pressure during the day than at night. The system has been found to be effective for continuous studies over intervals of a month or more.
The arrangement between the sexes

1. In modern industrial society, as apparently in all others, sex is at the base of a fundamental code in accordance with which social interactions and social structures are built up, a code which also establishes the conceptions individuals have concerning their fundamental human nature. This is an oft stated proposition, but until recently its awesomely ramified significance escaped us. The traditional sociological position that sex is "learned, diffuse, role behavior" fair enough in itself seemed to have innoculated previous generations of social scientists against understanding instead of allowing the disease to spread. More even than in the matter of social class, these students simply acted like everyone else, blindly supporting in their personal conduct exactly what some at least should have been studying. As usual in recent years, we have had to rely on the discontented to remind us of our subject matter.
In situ laser‐induced fluorescence studies of laser chemical vapor deposition of TiN thin films

TiN films are deposited on Si(100) from a reactant gas mixture of TiCl4, N2, and H2 by chemical vapor deposition with a CO2 laser. Pulsed dye laser‐induced fluorescence spectroscopy is applied to obtain gas phase species concentration during deposition in order to study the reaction and film growth mechanisms. Ti atomic species are found close to the substrate surface with concentrations in the order of 1011 cm−3.
Molecular dynamics simulations of the temperature‐dependent behavior of aluminum, copper, and platinum

The authors have investigated a molecular dynamics procedure for simulating the temperature-dependent behavior of three face-centered-cubic metals: aluminum, copper, and platinum. A potential due to Cai and Ye, which includes both pairwise additive and multibody terms, was used in conjunction with the CHARMM code. The properties calculated where the interaction energy per atom, the radial distribution function, the isothermal compressibility, and the heat capacities at constant pressure and volume. These properties were evaluated at 100{degree} intervals from 300 to 1,100 K for copper and platinum and from 300 to 800 K for aluminum, at pressures of 1 and 10,000 atm. Overall, the results were quite satisfactory. Except in one instance, the qualitative variations with temperature were reproduced reasonably well, and there was frequently also good quantitative agreement, especially at the lower temperatures. In general, the poorest results were obtained for aluminum. Some possible reasons for this are discussed.
Giving Office-Based Physicians Electronic Access To Patients’ Prior Imaging And Lab Results Did Not Deter Ordering Of Tests

Policy-based incentives for health care providers to adopt health information technology are predicated on the assumption that, among other things, electronic access to patient test results and med...
Information technology in a university: a case study

Reports on a case study conducted at Fairfield University, USA, on the rapid increase in information technology implementation. The study replicated the work of Levy and extended it by examining aspects of the Internet, World Wide Web, and client/server computing. Survey instruments were the primary means of data collection, augmented by interviews and internal documents. The results show potentially large increases in expenditure ahead as users feel the need to use the new technology. Users, however rejected most of the listed sources of funds to pay for the increase in expenditure. Recommendations include more formal server capacity planning and configuration, and shorter information technology planning cycles.
Regulation of myelinated nociceptor function by nerve growth factor in neonatal and adult rats

Abstract The role of nerve growth factor (NGF) as a survival factor for sensory neurons during embryonic life has been well documented. Here we examine the actions of NGF or antisera against NGF (anti-NGF) on physiologically identified sensory neurons with myelinated axons later in life, after the dependence on NGF for survival ends. We find that the effects of NGF and anti-NGF are specific for sensory neurons which are nociceptors. Treatments were found to affect the biophysical properties, the development, or the physiological function of myelinated nociceptors. They also affect the animal's behavioral response to noxious stimulation, depending upon when the treatments were given: neonatally, from 2–5 weeks of age, or chronically, beginning at birth. Thus, we find that the actions of NGF are specific for nociceptors but that the function of this neurotrophic factor changes according to the developmental age of the animal.
REPAIR OF UV DAMAGE IN ESCHERICHIA COLI UNDER NON‐GROWTH CONDITIONS

Abstract. –A large difference in survival occurs between buffered suspensions of E. coli irradiated with UV radiation at a low fluence rate and those irradiated at a high fluence rate. For sufficiently large fluences, the extent of this fluence rate dependent recovery (FRR) is about two orders of magnitude greater than that which can be brought about by liquid holding recovery (LHR) following high fluence rate irradiation in most of the E. coli strains studied. LHR and FRR occur in excision resynthesis repair proficient (ERR+) but not ERR- strains of E. coli, although its observation can be masked in strains with complete repair potential upon subsequent growth on nutrient plates. Accumulation of DNA strand interruptions and excision of cyclobutyl dipyrimidine occur during LHR and FRR but are more extensive for the latter. Our data suggest mat events beyond incision and excision occur during LHR and FRR, but differences in the extent of ERR during LHR and FRR cannot account for the difference in cell survival between these two phenomena.
Electric Field Effects on the Dielectric Constant of Solids

Calculations of the imaginary part of the dielectric constant of an anisotropic solid in the region of a critical point are used to obtain the real part of the dielectric constant through Kramers-Kronig relations. Changes in the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant are expressed in closed form for all four types of critical points. Description of these changes can be made with only two functions. The effect of the finite extent of a band is investigated, and it is shown that previous calculations of the change in the imaginary part of the dielectric constant, based on bands of infinite extent, are valid as long as transitions are restricted to regions near the critical point. Closed-form expressions for the Lorentzian broadening of the changes in the dielectric constants are given in terms of Airy functions of complex argument.
Teratogenic and lethal effects of paraquat on developing frog embryos (Rana pipiens).

Paraquat (l,l'dimethyl-4, 4'-bipyridinium dichloride) has been used for a number of years in the United States and other countries as a herbicide in the control of broadleaf weeds and grasses in crop fields, orchards, and berry patches. It is utilized as both a pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicide. Paraquat may also be used in aquatic weed control in some countries but not in the United States. The recommended field application rate is usually 0.25 to 1.0 lb. paraquat cation/acre. The rate of application for aquatic weed control ranges from about 0.I to 2.0 parts per million (ppm), by weight in water (Newman 1970; Calderbank 1972). Little is known of the effects of paraquat on embryonic development in aquatic animals. Murry and Schreiweis (1977) have shown teratogenic malformations in embryos of Oryzias latipes and Paulov [1977) has carried out developmental and body protein studies of the effects of paraquat in Rana temporaria. The present study was conducted to observe lethal and gross teratogenic effects of a range of concentrations of paraquat on Rana pipiens embryos, including concentrations at the recommended aquatic field application rates.
Considering Multiscalar Approaches to Creolization Among Enslaved Laborers at Estate Bethlehem, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Archaeological studies of plantations need to consider the scale of the historical circumstances which shape locally circumscribed Creole processes. These circumstances range from broad generalizations down to factors operating only at the local level of the individual estate. Recent excavations at Estate Lower Bethlehem, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, have recovered an artifact assemblage from a laborer village dating from the mid-eighteenth century to the first quarter of the nineteenth century, which was situated adjacent to a previously unrecorded cemetery and a large tamarind tree. This assemblage illustrates the importance of a multiscalar approach to Creolization in two ways: an analysis of the distribution of vessel forms of European pottery and “Afro-Cruzan” earthenwares; and the identification of fragments of lead-glazed slip-decorated redware pottery produced by Moravians.