cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Telepresence: Design, Implementation and Study of an HMD-controlled Avatar with a Mechatronic Approach

This paper presents a solution for visual Telepresence, where an HMD is used to control the direction of a camera’s viewpoint, such that the HMD’s rotational coordinates are tracked by a mechanical avatar. The design and development of the avatar’s hardware and software follows a mechatronic approach, where a real time operating system (RTOS) is used in conjunction with a microcontroller for mechanical actuator control. Experimental results show that the design provides adequate head-tracking capabilities as a proof of concept for use in Telepresence applications. Keywords—avatar, Head-mounted Display, head-tracking, Oculus Rift, Telepresence
Systolic time intervals. Relation to severity of coronary artery disease, intercoronary collateralization and left ventricular dyskinesia.

Abstract In 35 patients total electromechanical systole (Q-S 2 ), left ventricular ejection period, preejection period, isovolumetric contraction time and preisovolumetric contraction time (Q-S 1 ) were measured from simultaneous recordings of electrocardiogram, phonocardiogram and external carotid pulse tracing. The severity of coronary artery disease, the existence of intercoronary collateral vessels and the contractility of the left ventricular wall were determined by coronary arteriography and left ventriculography. Group 1, 25 nondigitalized patients, and Group 2, 10 digitalized patients, were further divided into subgroups: patients with triple, double and single coronary artery disease. In addition, separate evaluations were made on patients in Group 1 with left ventricular dyskinesia (10 patients), with intercoronary collaterals (12 patients) and without collaterals (9 patients). In Group 1, significant shortening of left ventricular ejection period (W 1 (W 2 interval and lengthen the preejection period. In Group 2, digitalis appeared to reverse the influence of coronary artery disease on preejection period, the Q-S 1 interval and isovolumetric contraction time, and to increase the shortening of the Q-S 2 , interval (W 2 interval, left ventricular ejection period and Q-S 1 interval (W 2 interval. The most significant decrease in the Q-S 2 interval occurred in patients without intercoronary collaterals. The prolongation of preejection period was due merely to the lengthening of isovolumetric contraction time, in spite of the masking effect of a shortened Q-S 1 interval. Digitalis may neutralize or even reverse the changes in preejection period, Q-S 1 interval and isovolumetric contraction time due to coronary artery disease.
A deoxyribonucleic acid polymerase I-deficient mutant of Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract A methyl methanesulfonate sensitive mutant of Bacillus subtilis appears to lack the enzyme DNA polymerase I. The absence of polymerase I permits the detection of a second DNA polymerizing enzyme in the mutant. This second polymerase is inhibitable by sulfhydryl antagonists, and shows maximal activity on double-stranded DNA substrates with many single strand breaks. Poly[d(A-T)] is less efficiently used as a substrate, in contrast to the substrate preferences of polymerase I. Compared to the wild type, the mutant is more sensitive to ultraviolet and x-irradiation, and is inefficient in reactivation of ultraviolet-irradiated SP01 bacteriophage, but is normal in genetic recombination.
Confronting the Circularity Problem in Private Securities Litigation

Many critics argue that private securities litigation fails effectively either to deter corporate misconduct or to compensate defrauded investors. In particular, commentators reason that damages reflect socially inefficient transfer payments - the so-called circularity problem. Fox and Mitchell address the circularity problem by identifying new reasons why private litigation is an effective deterrent, focusing on the role of disclosure in improving corporate governance. The corporate governance rationale for securities regulation is more powerful than the authors recognize. By collecting and using corporate information in their trading decisions, informed investors play a critical role in enhancing market efficiency. This efficiency, in turn, allows the capital markets to discipline management, producing a governance externality that improves corporate decision-making and benefits non-trading shareholders. As this article shows, this governance externality justifies compensating informed traders for their fraud-based trading losses.
SALICYLIC ACID INHIBITS SYNTHESIS OF PROTEINASE INHIBITORS IN TOMATO LEAVES INDUCED BY SYSTEMIN AND JASMONIC ACID

Salicylic acid (SA) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), previously shown to inhibit proteinase inhibitor synthesis induced by wounding, oligouronides (H.M. Doherty, R.R. Selvendran, D.J. Bowles [1988] Physiol Mol Plant Pathol 33: 377-384), and linolenic acid (H. Pena-Cortes, T. Albrecht, S. Prat, E.W. Weiler, L. Willmitzer [1993] Planta 191: 123-128), are shown here to be potent inhibitors of systemin-induced and jasmonic acid (JA)-induced synthesis of proteinase inhibitor mRNAs and proteins. The inhibition by SA and ASA of proteinase inhibitor synthesis induced by systemin and JA, as well as by wounding and oligosaccharide elicitors, provides further evidence that both oligosaccharide and polypeptide inducer molecules utilize the octadecanoid pathway to signal the activation of proteinase inhibitor genes. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) leaves were pulse labeled with [35S]methionine, followed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and the inhibitory effects of SA are shown to be specific for the synthesis of a small number of JA-inducible proteins that includes the proteinase inhibitors. Previous results have shown that SA inhibits the conversion of 13S-hydroperoxy linolenic acid to 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid, thereby inhibiting the signaling pathway by blocking synthesis of JA. Here we report that the inhibition of synthesis of proteinase inhibitor proteins and mRNAs by SA in both light and darkness also occurs at a step in the signal transduction pathway, after JA synthesis but preceding transcription of the inhibitor genes.
The King and the Cowboy: Theodore Roosevelt and Edward the Seventh, Secret Partners – By David Fromkin

This is a work of pulp nonfiction from a historian whose distinguished publishing record may lead his readers to expect a higher standard of craftsmanship. The partnership to which the subtitle all...
Noise separation in analog integrated circuits using independent component analysis technique

Most of the existing noise analysis techniques in analog integrated circuits apply to only single noise source, and cannot take into account the evolving reality of multiple noise sources interacting with each other. Again the individual and relative impacts of various noise sources will determine what types of remedial steps can be taken. This paper proposes the concept of analyzing the impacts of multiple concurrent noise sources in a circuit network, and applies blind source separation (BSS) technique to analyze the characteristics of this compound noise effect in analog integrated circuits. The proposed algorithm can effectively extracts the time characteristics of individual noise sources from observed noises at circuit nodes. The estimated noise sources can aid in timing and spectral analysis and yield better design techniques.
PARP-1 deficiency blocks IL-5 expression through calpain-dependent degradation of STAT-6 in a murine asthma model

Background: We recently showed that poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1) may play a role in allergen (ovalbumin)-induced airway eosinophilia, potentially through a specific effect on IL-5 production. Objective: To explore the mechanism by which PARP-1 regulates IL-5 production and to determine how PARP-1 inhibition blocks allergen-induced eosinophilia. Methods: This study was conducted using a murine model of allergic airway inflammation and primary splenocytes. Results: PARP-1 knockout-associated reduction in IL-5 upon allergen exposure occurs at the mRNA level. Such an effect appears to take place after IL-4 receptor activation as PARP-1 inhibition exerted no effect on JAK1/JAK3 activation. Signal transducer and activator of transcription-6 (STAT-6) protein was severely downregulated in spleens of PARP-1(-/-) mice without any effect on mRNA levels, suggesting an effect on protein integrity rather than gene transcription. Interestingly, the degradation of STAT-6 in PARP-1(-/-) mice required allergen stimulation. Additionally, PARP-1 enzymatic activity appears to be required for STAT-6 integrity. The downregulation of STAT-6 coincided with mRNA and protein reduction of GATA-binding protein-3 and occupancy of its binding site on the IL-5 gene promoter. IL-4 was sufficient to induce STAT-6 downregulation in both PARP-1(-/-) mice and isolated splenocytes. Such degradation may be mediated by calpain, but not by proteasomes. Conclusion: These results demonstrate a novel function of PARP-1 in regulating IL-5 expression during allergen-induced inflammation and explain the underlying mechanism by which PARP-1 inhibition results in IL-5 reduction.
TonB protein appears to transduce energy by shuttling between the cytoplasmic membrane and the outer membrane in Escherichia coli

The energy source for active transport of iron–siderophore complexes and vitamin B12 across the outer membrane in Gram-negative bacteria is the cytoplasmic membrane proton-motive force (pmf). TonB protein is required in this process to transduce cytoplasmic membrane energy to the outer membrane. In this study, Escherichia coli TonB was found to be distributed in sucrose density gradients approximately equally between the cytoplasmic membrane and the outer membrane fractions, while two proteins with which it is known to interact, ExbB and ExbD, as well as the NADH oxidase activity characteristic of the cytoplasmic membrane, were localized in the cytoplasmic membrane fraction. Neither the N-terminus of TonB nor the cytoplasmic membrane pmf, both of which are essential for TonB activity, were required for TonB to associate with the outer membrane. When the TonB C-terminus was absent, TonB was found associated with the cytoplasmic membrane, suggesting that the C-terminus was required for outer membrane association. When ExbB and ExbD, as well as their cross-talk-competent homologues TolQ and TolR, were absent, TonB was found associated with the outer membrane. TetA–TonB protein, which cannot interact with ExbB/D, was likewise found associated with the outer membrane. These results indicated that the role of ExbB/D in energy transduction is to bring TonB that has reached the outer membrane back to associate with the cytoplasmic membrane. Two possible explanations exist for the observations presented in this study. One possibility is that TonB transduces energy by shuttling between membranes, and, at some stages in the energy-transduction cycle, is associated with either the cytoplasmic membrane or the outer membrane, but not with both at the same time. This hypothesis, together with the alternative interpretation that TonB remains localized in the cytoplasmic membrane and changes its affinity for the outer and cytoplasmic membrane during energy transduction, are incorporated with previous observations into two new models, consistent with the novel aspects of this system, that describe a mechanism for TonB-dependent energy transduction.
Molecular analysis of genes on Xp controlling Turner syndrome and premature ovarian failure (POF)

Monosomy X has been known to be the chromosomal basis of Turner syndrome (TS) for more than four decades. A large body of cytogenetic data indicates that most TS features are due to reduced dosage of genes on the short arm of the X chromosome (Xp). Phenotype mapping studies using molecular cytogenetic and genetic techniques are beginning to localize the Xp genes that are important for various TS features, and a comprehensive catalog of candidate genes is becoming available through the Human Genome Project and related research. It is now possible to assess the contributions of individual genes to the TS phenotype by mutational analysis of karyotypically normal persons with specific TS features. This strategy has succeeded in identifying a gene involved in short stature and is being applied to premature ovarian failure and other TS phenotypes.
Treatment of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris

Patients with angina pectoris may be stratified into low- or high-risk categories on the basis of clinical findings and a careful workup, possibly including nuclear imaging of stress-induced abnormal perfusion or contractile patterns and coronary angiography. High-risk patients may require revascularization by angioplasty or bypass surgery, whereas low-risk patients can be managed medically. It is important to consider the impact of various anti-ischemic drugs on the myocardial demand-supply equation. A recent study indicated that the combination of a beta blocker plus isosorbide mononitrate is more effective in increasing exercise duration than is either the combination of a beta blocker and a calcium antagonist or triple therapy. In patients with single-vessel disease, angioplasty has been shown to be more effective than medical therapy in relieving symptoms, but the incidence of restenosis and the associated costs are high. Surgery favorably affects mortality in patients with left main coronary artery disease or 3-vessel disease with left ventricular impairment. New evidence suggests that endothelial dysfunction may play a more important role in chronic stable angina pectoris than has been appreciated and that such dysfunction may be treated with nitrates.
Transient thermo-reflectance measurements of the thermal conductivity and interface resistance of metallized natural and isotopically-pure silicon

Abstract The transient thermoreflectance method has been used to measure the thermal conductivity of natural silicon and isotopically-pure silicon-28 layers that are epitaxially grown on natural silicon substrates. The measurements were performed at room temperature for both a low level (10 16 ) and a higher level (2×10 19 ) of Boron doping of the epitaxial layers. The results indicate a gain of approximately 55% in the thermal conductivity of Si 28 as compared to that of natural Si, at both low and higher levels of doping, and a loss of approximately 19% for both types of silicon due to the higher level of doping.
A model for turning quark matter into nuclear matter by clustering of quarks

Abstract We investigate the problem of a dynamical clustering mechanism of 3-color quarks into nuclear matter using a short-range quark-quark interaction. Our method is variational with a trial wave function which is an extension of the BCS ground state wave function of the pairing problem to the 3-color tripleting problem. We show that the energy per particle of the system is given by that of a Fermi gas of nucleons at low but finite density in the case of a one-dimensional e-function force without spin and isospin degrees of freedom. Our variational result agrees with the exact low density expansion.
An unsteady regional multilayered aquifer model for microcomputers

Groundwater quality and quantity modeling in regional aquifer systems has developed very rapidly within the last twenty years. The new computational methods introduced to this field offer flexible tools to practicing engineers to analyze complex problems that otherwise would have been unfeasible to solve. Recent advances made in microcomputer technology introduce a new phase to this progress since such computational facilities are now readily available to most engineers, and the existing groundwater models can be implemented on these computers for efficient and reliable simulation. The study summarized here is an extension of an earlier steady-state groundwater Now model developed by the first author. The numerical model discussed here is developed for an IBM-AT or compatible system with 640K core memory capacity. The FORTRAN code is compiled using the Microsoft version 3.2 FORTUNE Compiler (MS-FORTRAN Compiler) which runs under version 1.25 of the Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS). For fast numeric processing an 8087 coprocessing environment is suggested but such a processor is not necessary for proper execution. The unsteady multilayer aquifer model developed here is verified based on analytical solutions for multilayer aquifers available in the literature. The computer code generated is identified as MUCF1 (Multilayer-Unsteady-Groundwater-Flow) model.
Multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (MCARS) for chemically sensitive, label-free flow cytometry

Flow cytometry is an ever-advancing high-throughput multivariate analysis tool that natively provides size and morphological information. To obtain molecular information, however, typically requires the addition of fluorophores, which are limited by spectral overlap, nonspecific binding, available conjugation chemistries, and cellular toxicity. A complementary or alternative, label-free approach to molecular information is through multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (MCARS), which is a coherent, nonlinear optical method that provides a wealth of molecular information by probing the Raman energies within a molecule. In this work, we demonstrate the unique capability of our MCARS flow cytometer to distinguish flowing particles and discuss system performance capabilities and possibilities.
Frameless stereotaxis for the insertion of lumbar pedicle screws

Spinal instrumentation and frameless stereotaxy are two separate fields in neurosurgery that have rapidly advanced in recent years. The application of stereotaxis to spinal surgery has previously been limited by the inaccuracy of surface mounted reference points. The development of frameless stereotaxy using anatomical registration techniques has overcome this problem and has allowed stereotactic techniques to be successfully applied to spinal surgery at our institution. We tested our frameless spinal stereotactic technique in cadaver studies with optimal screw placement. The technique is currently undergoing preliminary clinical evaluation. We review the technique and its application to spinal instrumentation.
Peasant Society and the Image of Limited Good

"Human behavior is always motivated by certain purposes, and these purposes grow out of sets of assumptions which are not usually recognized by those who hold them. The basic premises of a particular culture are unconsciously accepted by the individual through his constant and exclusive participation in that culture. It is these assumptions-the essence of all the culturally conditioned purposes, motives, and principles-which determine the behavior of a people, underlie all the institutions of a community, and give them unity" (HsiaoTung Fei and Chi-I Chang 1945:81-82). "Human beings in whatever culture are provided with cognitive orientation in a cosmos: there is 'order' and 'reason' rather than chaos. There are basic premises and principles implied, even if these do not happen to be consciously formulated and articulated by the people themselves. We are confronted with the philosophical implications of their thought, the nature of the world of being as they conceive it. If we pursue the problem deeply enough we soon come face to face with a relatively unexplored territory-ethno-metaphysics. Can we penetrate this realm in other cultures? What kind of evidence is at our disposal? ... The problem is a complex and difficult one, but this should not preclude its exploration" (Hallowell 1960:21).
IMPACT OF CONTINUOUS FLOW LEFT VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICE THERAPY ON DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF LVAD) are increasingly used in the therapeutic algorithm for patients with end-stage heart failure (HF). Treated patients show improvements on global health status measures. However, there has been limited investigation regarding the prevalence and
THE POTENTIAL FOR ORAL ANTIBIOTIC THERAPY FOR PSEUDOMONAS INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN

New, orally absorbed quinoline derivatives are highly active against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including Pseudomonas (Antimicrob Ag Chemother 23:658, 1983). Pseudomonas (n=145) were tested in vitro against enoxacin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and ofloxacin. All were active against P. aeruginosa (MIC90 ≤4 μg/ml), including aminoglycoside-resistant isolates. Enoxacin and ciprofloxacin were most active against other Pseudomonas species, including many strains of P. cepacia and P. maltophilia. The pharmacokinetics of these drugs were determined in mice and rats and therapeutic studies performed in two models: (1) Graded inocula of Pseudomonas species were injected IP into mice, followed by single dose therapy ½ hour later. Oral enoxacin was more active than norfloxacin or tobramycin in reducing bacteremia and mortality due to P. aeruginosa and P. cepacia (e.g. LD50 102 for saline v. 106.1 for enoxacin for P. aeruginosa); (2) Oral enoxacin was begun 3 days or 3 weeks after persistent Pseudomonas pulmonary infection in the agar-bead rat model. Bacterial concentrations in lung were reduced by 66% and 76%, respectively. These in vitro and in vivo data support the continued development of quinolines as oral antibiotics for Pseudomonas infections in children.
Structure of the polymer-solvent interface

The first measurements of ellipticities ρ from the liquid–liquid interface between polymer and solvent mixtures near their consolute points are reported. When scaled according to theory the ellipticities of high molecular weight polystyrene + solvent mixtures are consistent with those from simple, low molecular weight mixtures. The universal value of the scaled ellipticity is approximately 20% lower than that predicted by present theories.
Studies on the daily protein and amino acid needs of broiler breeder hens.

Abstract Feeding trials were conducted with broiler breeder hens to determine optimum daily intake of protein for maximum performance. Pullets were grown to 24 weeks of age on limited feed intake to maintain the body weights within the limits suggested by the breeder. A controlled-feeding system was used during the laying period with step-wise increase in calorie intakes. In the first study corn-soybean type diets were used to supply 14 to 22 grams of protein/day in 2 gram increments. In the second study daily protein intakes of 14.5 to 24 grams were compared. In addition, diets supplying 14.5 and 16 grams of protein daily were also fed with an additional 200 mg/day of lysine and methionine. The results of these studies suggest that the protein requirement of broiler breeder hens fed corn-soybean meal diets without supplemental amino acids is 20–22 grams per day.
Electromyogram-triggered neuromuscular stimulation and stroke motor recovery of arm/hand functions: a meta-analysis

Debate persists about the effectiveness of poststroke behavioral interventions for progress toward motor recovery. The current meta-analysis assessed the effect of electromyogram (EMG)-triggered neuromuscular stimulation on arm and hand functions. Computer searches of PubMed and Cochran databases, as well as hand searches of reference lists identified seven EMG-triggered neuromuscular stimulation studies. Outcome measures focused on arm and hand motor capability functions. In addition, the quality of each study was rated on three guidelines: randomization, double blind, and dropouts. After adjusting data for consistency in the arm/hand outcome measures and to avoid bias, five active stimulation studies were included in the analysis. Rehabilitation treatment in each study focused on wrist extension. The total number of individuals in the treatment groups was 47 whereas the control groups had 39 subjects. The meta-analysis revealed a significant overall mean effect size (delta=0.82, S.D.=0.59). A homogeneity test indicated that the pooled standardized effect sizes estimated the same treatment effect. A fail-safe test for null effect findings revealed that 15 studies were required to reduce the large effect (0.82) to a small effect (0.20). These improved wrist extension motor capabilities findings support EMG-triggered neuromuscular stimulation as an effective poststroke protocol.
The bending of polymers under tension as related to a deep drawing process

Two engineering plastics, an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin (ABS resin, Cycolac MS) and a rigid polyvinyl chloride resin (PVC resin, Dacovin 2082) were investigated to determine the effects of cold working. In particular, the “bending under tension” stress system of a deep drawing process was considered. The object was to determine the effect of the blank-holder pressure, the ratio of the punch radius to the material thickness, the speed of deformation and the temperature of deformation. The stress-strain characteristics of the deformed and undeformed material were markedly different. Upper yield points were lower in the deformed specimens, the tensile strengths were decreased by 10 to 15% and the %-elongation at break was higher—up to double the values for underformed specimens. An analysis indicated that these effects can be attributed to non-homogeneous yielding. The results also indicated that crazing plays an important role in permitting an ABS material to permanently conform to a radius with no geometric constraints.
Persuading Caesar: A new interpretation of Farquharson's problem

Merely because voting takes place in a real-life social decision system, we are not thereby confronted by a ‘voting game’. Often we are confronted by something that looks more like an advising game, in which voting is mainly important as a language by which policymakers render advice to other policymakers (possibly including their own future selves) who will act later. In this brief research note, the foregoing theme is illustrated by re-interpreting the same case from ancient Roman senatorial politics which inspired Robin Farquharson's seminal Theory of Voting. I stress that the contributions of this article lie entirely in the interpretation of allegedly gamelike situations, not in the formal analysis of games proper.
Imaging of the sella in the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone

Abstract. Objective. The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) results either from ectopic production or inappropriate release of antidiuretic hormone from the neurohypophysis. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has provided new insights into the morphological changes of the hypophysis in health and disease, no previous studies have evaluated its use in SIADH. The aim of this study was to evaluate the MRI appearance of the neurohypophysis in patients with SIADH. Design. Retrospective case-control study. Setting. Tertiary care teaching hospital. Subjects. We studied retrospectively eight patients with SIADH who had been hospitalized in Boston's Beth Israel between 1984 and 1994 and who had MRI scans including the sella turcica. We also evaluated prospectively the MRIs of the heads of 23 consecutive control patients who had no pituitary pathology and no serum osmolality or electrolyte abnormalities. Interventions. Clinical evaluation as well as sagittal and axial T1-MR images. Main outcome measures. Presence or absence of the high intensity signal of the neurohypophysis. Results. In seven out of eight patients (87.5%) the normal high intensity signal of the neurohypophysis was not present. In one patient (12.5%), two interpreting radiologists disagreed about its presence. The high intensity signal was present in the neurohypophysis of 20 out of 23 controls (87.5%). Conclusions. Our data indicate an association of SIADH with the absence of the normal hyperintense signal of the neurohypophysis, confirming the usefulness of MRI as a tool to visualize ADH processing. These data also raise the possibility that the absence of the high intensity signal may be a useful diagnostic tool in cases of SIADH that are difficult to diagnose clinically. Additional studies to correlate this signal with various forms of SIADH will be needed.
Translational dynamics of water in a nanoporous layered silicate

Neutron time-of-flight and backscattering spectroscopy have been used to study the translational diffusion of water molecules in the unusual layered material AMH-3, which consists of (zeolitelike) three-dimensionally nanoporous silicate layers spaced by (claylike) interlayer regions. The synthesis of AMH-3 and its characterization by $^{29}\mathrm{Si}$ NMR, Raman, and infrared spectroscopy, are described. An analysis of quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) spectra using the random jump diffusion model reveals two translational diffusive motions clearly separated in time scales: a fast process ($D\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}{\mathrm{m}}^{2}∕\mathrm{s}$ at 300 K), and a much slower process ($D\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}11}\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}{\mathrm{m}}^{2}∕\mathrm{s}$ at 300 K). Considering the structural model of AMH-3 and the transport properties extracted from the QENS data, it is suggested that the slower motion corresponds to diffusion by water molecules in the interlayer spaces whereas the fast process involves diffusion in the silicate layer. This first investigation of transport phenomena in nanoporous layered silicates like AMH-3 indicates that they have the potential to offer mass transport properties different from zeolite materials and layered clays.
Destruction of ground state XeCl molecules by HCl and rare gas collisions

Rate constants for quenching of several XeCl (X) vibrational levels by the rare gases and HCl have been measured. The temporally resolved decay of the population densities of the XeCl (X, v″=0–2) levels was monitored using a frequency‐doubled tunable dye laser. Within experimental error, the measured rate constants did not vary with vibrational number, and the temperature dependence of the rates over the range 300⩽T⩽375 °K was found to be consistent with the previously measured XeCl (X) dissociation energy (∼250 cm−1). The rate constants for the destruction of XeCl (X, v″=0) state molecules by HCl, Xe, Ar and Ne at 300 °K were determined to be (2.20.5) ×10−11, (5.60.8) ×10−12, (0.60.06) ×10−13, and (1.00.15) ×10−13 cm3 sec−1, respectively.
Extended dynamical mean-field theory and GW method

We develop the extended dynamical mean-field theory (E-DMFT) with a view towards realistic applications. (1) We introduce an intuitive derivation of the E-DMFT formalism. By identifying the Hartree contributions before the E-DMFT treatment, it allows us to handle systems in symmetry-breaking phases within a simple formalism. (2) We make an implementation of E-DMFT through a real Hubbard\char21{}Stratonovich transformation to decouple the nonlocal two-particle interactions. We apply it to a three-dimensional $U\ensuremath{-}V$ model, with U the on-site and V the nearest-neighbor interactions, and investigate the behavior of the various Green's functions, especially the density susceptibility, as the density instability is approached. We obtain the phase diagram at a finite temperature. (3) We present a formalism incorporating E-DMFT with cellular DMFT. (4) We suggest an improvement of the E-DMFT approach by combining it with a generalized GW method. The method combines the local self-energy from E-DMFT and the nonlocal ones from the perturbative calculation of $\mathrm{GW}.$ We apply the method to a one-dimensional $U\ensuremath{-}V$ model with two sublattices carrying different chemical potentials. By comparing with those from density matrix renormalization group calculations, we show that the results are shifted in the correct direction due to the $\mathrm{GW}$ contributions. (5) In order to handle the generic Coulomb repulsion within E-DMFT, we describe a method to tailor E-DMFT so that the proper momentum dependence can be kept in general response functions.
A note on spectral concentration for non-isolated eigenvalues

Abstract A classical sufficient condition for solution of the perturbation equations to order p is extended to the case of non-isolated eigenvalues, and a new proof is given.
SPC04-2: Semi-Blind ICI Equalization for Wireless OFDM Systems

Intercarrier interference is deemed as one of the crucial problems in the wireless orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems. The conventional ICI mitigation schemes involve the frequency-domain channel estimation or the additional coding, both of which require the spectral overhead and hence lead to the significant throughput reduction. Besides, the OFDM receivers using the ICI estimation rely on a large- dimensional matrix inverter with high computational complexity especially for many subcarriers such as digital video broadcasting (DVB) systems and wireless metropolitan-area networks (WMAN). To the best of our knowledge, no semi-blind ICI equalization has been addressed in the existing literature. Thus, in this paper, we propose a novel semi-blind ICI equalization scheme using the joint multiple matrix diagonalization (JMMD) algorithm to greatly reduce the intercarrier interference in OFDM. However, the well-known phase and permutation indeterminacies emerge in all blind equalization schemes. Hence we also design a few OFDM pilot blocks and propose an iterative identification method to determine the corresponding phase and permutation variants in our semi-blind scheme. Our semi-blind ICI equalization algorithm integrating the JMMD with the additional pilot-based iterative identification is very promising for the future high- throughput OFDM systems. Through Monte Carlo simulations, the QPSK-OFDM system with our proposed semi-blind ICI equalizer can achieve significantly better performance with symbol error rate reduction in several orders-of-magnitude. For the 16QAM-OFDM system, our scheme can also improve the performance over the plain OFDM system to some extent.
Extractable Soil Water and Transpiration Rate of Soybean on Sandy Soils

Substantial consistency has been obtained in describing plant response to drying soil by expressing plant performance as a function of the fraction of soil water that can be used by the plants. Generally, there is no decrease in plant activity until the soil water has been decreased to the level where only about 0.3 of the water that can be extracted by the plants remains in the soil. There is, however, ambiguity as to whether this relationship is appropriate for sandy soils. The objective of this research was to compare methods for describing extractable soil water by soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] plants grown in pots with soils differing in sand content. The two methods tested were based on thermodynamic and physiological definitions of the upper and lower end-points of extractable soil water. While differences existed in the volumetric soil water content for the two definitions of the lower end-point of extractable soil water, these differences were small. In contrast, very large differences existed in defining the volumetric soil water of the upper end-point either thermodynamically (commonly assumed to be -10 kPa for sands) or physiologically (pot capacity). As a consequence, there were large differences in the response curves obtained based on the two expressions of extractable soil water. The threshold for transpiration expressed as an absolute volumetric soil water was of course independent of the determination of the end-points. Instead of relying on a relative transpiration response to extractable soil water, for sandy soils it may be necessary to use the volumetric soil water content determined under controlled conditions to interpret crop response under any particular field situation.
Eleven New γ Doradus Stars

We present new high-dispersion spectroscopic and precise photometric observations to identify 11 new γ Doradus variables. Seven of these new γ Doradus stars appear to be single, three are primaries of single-lined binaries, and one has two distant visual companions; none are double-lined or close visual binaries. Several of the stars show spectroscopic line-profile and low-amplitude radial velocity variability indicative of pulsation. All 11 stars are photometrically variable with amplitudes between 8 and 93 mmag in Johnson B and periods between 0.398 and 2.454 days. One star is monoperiodic; the rest have between two and five independent periods. The variability at all periods approximates a sinusoid, although three of the stars exhibit cycle-to-cycle variation in the level of maximum brightness, similar to the Blazhko effect observed in some RR Lyrae stars. We provide a new tabulation of all 54 γ Doradus stars confirmed to date and list some of their properties. All are dwarfs or subgiants and lie within a well-defined region of the H-R diagram that overlaps the cool edge of the δ Scuti instability strip. Four of the new γ Doradus variables from this paper also lie within the δ Scuti instability strip but do not exhibit the additional higher frequency variability typical of δ Scuti stars. The variability type of several of these stars given in the General Catalog of Variable Stars and in SIMBAD should now be revised.
The NASA-Langley 20-inch supersonic wind tunnel

NASA Langley's new 20-inch supersonic wind tunnel is in the process of reassembly, following extensive modifications. These will result in its incorporation of such features as a 'quiet' flow control valve, thick sintered screens with very large pressure drops, special farings in the contraction section, an instantaneous relief hatch in the test section, and a switching exhaust system that permits flow into a vacuum sphere during startup and shutdown and to the atmosphere during data acquisition. Attention is given to the expected operating map of the new tunnel.
Leaf morphological and genetic differentiation between Quercus rubra L. and Q. ellipsoidalis E.J. Hill populations in contrasting environments

Hybridization is considered to play an important role in speciation and evolution. Given the predicted northward tree migration in the eastern USA due to the impact of climate change, hybridization between related species is expected to become more frequent due to overlapping distribution ranges in the future. Oak species are “hot spots” of contemporary hybridization, serving as model organisms in the development of ecological species concepts. Q. rubra L. and Q. ellipsoidalis E.J. Hill were selected as study species, since they show different ecological requirements but hybridize with each other where both species co-occur. To identify morphological species and differentiation patterns in this species pair in ten populations on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan we investigated both leaf morphological variation, and genetic variation at highly variable microsatellite markers. Cluster analyses using leaf morphological characters revealed two distinct clusters for directly measured leaf characters and three clusters when additionally leaf shape characters were considered. Two populations growing on dry and sandy sites and identified as Q. ellipsoidalis in the field and by genetic assignment analyses were differentiated from the other eight populations at leaf morphological characters. Strong and significant correlations of leaf morphological differences with genetic distances at microsatellite markers but not with geographic distances are consistent with a pattern of isolation by adaptation. Differentiation at genetic and leaf morphological characters between neighboring populations in contrasting environments suggested reproductive isolation between populations of different species, possibly as the result of divergent selection. More extensive sampling along the distribution range of both species and reciprocal transplant experiments between parental environments are necessary to better understand the role of interspecific gene flow and selection in the maintenance of species identity in red oak species (Quercus section Lobatae).
L and M subshell ratios of the 43.5 keV E2 transition in 234U

Abstract The subshell ratios of the 2+ → 0+43.5 keV E2 transition in 92234U from the α-decay of 238Pu were measured in an iron-free π√2 spectrometer. The following results with errors in parentheses were obtained for the LI/LII/LIII, MI/MII/MIII/MIV+V, NII/NIII, M/N+ …, N/O+ … and LIII/M ratios, respectively: 3.99(22)/114.70(20)/100, 4.2(8)/104(5)/100/2.0(8), 1.10(10), 3.10(15), 4.34(60) and 1.65(4). The L-subshells agree well with the calculations of Sliv and Band, of Hager and Seltzer and of Pauli and the M-subshells with the calculations of the latter two groups.
Regional Variations in Esophageal Cancer Rates by Census Region in the United States, 1999–2008

Background Assessment of cancer incidence trends within the U.S. have mostly relied upon Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data, with implicit inference that such is representative of the general population. However, many cancer policy decisions are based at a more granular level. To help inform such, analyses of regional cancer incidence data are needed. Leveraging the unique resource of National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR)-SEER, we assessed whether regional rates and trends of esophageal cancer significantly deviated from national estimates. Methods From NPCR-SEER, we extracted cancer case counts and populations for whites aged 45–84 years by calendar year, histology, sex, and census region for the period 1999–2008. We calculated age-standardized incidence rates (ASRs), annual percent changes (APCs), and male-to-female incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Results This analysis included 65,823 esophageal adenocarcinomas and 27,094 esophageal squamous cell carcinomas diagnosed during 778 million person-years. We observed significant geographic variability in incidence rates and trends, especially for esophageal adenocarcinomas in males: ASRs were highest in the Northeast (17.7 per 100,000) and Midwest (18.1). Both were significantly higher than the national estimate (16.0). In addition, the Northeast APC was 62% higher than the national estimate (3.19% vs. 1.97%). Lastly, IRRs remained fairly constant across calendar time, despite changes in incidence rates. Conclusion Significant regional variations in esophageal cancer incidence trends exist in the U.S. Stable IRRs may indicate the predominant factors affecting incidence rates are similar in men and women.
Fiducial markers implanted during prostate brachytherapy for guiding conformal external beam radiation therapy.

Prostate movement imposes limits on safe dose-escalation with external beam radiation therapy. If the precise daily location of the prostate is known, dose escalation becomes more feasible. We have developed an approach to dose escalation using a combination of prostate brachytherapy followed by external beam radiation therapy in which fiducial markers are placed along with125 I seeds during transperineal interstitial permanent prostate brachytherapy. These markers serve to verify daily prostate location during the subsequent external beam radiotherapy. Prior to implementing this approach, preliminary studies were performed to test visibility of the markers. Three different125 I seed models, as well as gold and silver marker seeds were placed within tissue-equivalent phantoms. Images were obtained with conventional x-rays (75–85 kV) and 6 MV photons from a linear accelerator. All125 I seed models were clearly visible on conventional x-rays but none were seen with 6 MV photons. The gold markers were visibl...
A Comparison of Three Populations of the Ciliate Genus, Paracichlidotherus Grim 1992. New Fish Hosts, and Biogeography; Revised Genus Description

Two populations of Paracichlidotherus (Ciliophora, Nyctotheridae) were collected from the intestines of the Surgeon-fishes, Zebrasoma flavescens, and Acanthurus nigricans, from waters around the island of Guam. They were examined after Protargol staining and compared with the type population for 14 morphological characters. Right and left posterior short kinetal rows of very close kinetosomes and apparently fused cilia are described based on light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. They often appear to be part of a second posterior suture system on each side. From transmission electron microscopic studies, kinetid structures of somatic dikinetids are described and compared for normal and fused cilia. They are similar, but in the latter, a fibril connects adjacent dikinetids. The buccal overture is V shaped at its posterior aspect. The genus is described more fully based on these characteristics.
Expanding roles of ABCG1 and sterol transport.

Purpose of review To offer a comprehensive review on the role of ABCG1 in cellular sterol homeostasis. Recent findings Early studies with Abcg1 mice indicated that ABCG1 was crucial for tissue lipid homeostasis, especially in the lung. More recent studies have demonstrated that loss of ABCG1 has wide-ranging consequences and impacts lymphocyte and stem cell proliferation, endothelial cell function, macrophage foam cell formation, as well as insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells. Recent studies have also demonstrated that ABCG1 functions as an intracellular lipid transporter, localizes to intracellular vesicles/endosomes, and that the transmembrane domains are sufficient for localization and transport function. Summary ABCG1 plays a crucial role in maintaining intracellular sterol and lipid homeostasis. Loss of this transporter has significant, cell-type-specific consequences ranging from effects on cellular proliferation, to surfactant production and/or insulin secretion. Elucidation of the mechanisms by which ABCG1 affects intracellular sterol flux/movement should provide important information that may link ABCG1 to diseases of dysregulated tissue lipid homeostasis.
Available animal models of osteopenia — Small and large

Animal models of osteopenia are reviewed. Endocrine excess or deficiency conditions include ovariectomy, orchidectomy, glucocorticoid excess and other endocrine states. Seasonal and reproductive cycles are usually transient and include pregnancy and lactation, egg-laying, antler formation and hibernation. Dietary conditions include calcium deficiencies, phosphate excess and vitamin C and D deficiencies. Mechanical usage effects include skeletal underloading models. Aging is also associated with osteopenia in many species.
Injury deaths of US citizens abroad: new data source, old travel problem.

BACKGROUND: Global travel continues to increase, including among US citizens. The global burden of injuries and violence, accounting for approximately 5 million deaths worldwide in 2000, is also growing. Travelers often experience heightened risk for this biosocial disease burden. This study seeks to further describe and improve our understanding of the variable risk of travel-related injury and death. METHODS: Information on US civilian citizen deaths from injury while abroad was obtained from the US Department of State Web site. This information was categorized into regional and causal groupings. The groupings were compared to each other and to injury deaths among citizens in their native countries. RESULTS: From 2004 to 2006, there were 2,361 deaths of US citizens overseas due to injury. Of these US citizen injury deaths, 50.4% occurred in the Americas region. Almost 40% (37.8%) of US citizen injury deaths in the low- to middle-income Americas were due to vehicle crashes compared to about half that (18.9%) (proportional mortality ratio [PMR] = 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59-1.62) for low- to middle-income Americas citizen injury deaths. Similar differences between US citizen injury death abroad and the in-country distributions were also found for vehicle crashes in Europe (35.9% vs 16.5%, PMR = 2.17, 95% CI 1.78-2.64; p Language: en