cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Room-Temperature Mechanical Properties and Slow Crack Growth Behavior of Mg 2 Si Thermoelectric Materials

Mg2Si is of interest as a thermoelectric (TE) material in part due to its low materials cost, lack of toxic components, and low mass density. However, harvesting of waste heat subjects TE materials to a range of mechanical and thermal stresses. To understand and model the material’s response to such stresses, the mechanical properties of the TE material must be known. The Mg2Si specimens included in this study were powder processed and then sintered via pulsed electrical current sintering. The elastic moduli (Young’s modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) were measured using resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, while the hardness and fracture toughness were examined using Vickers indentation. Also, the Vickers indentation crack lengths were measured as a function of time in room air to determine the susceptibility of Mg2Si to slow crack growth.
Mislocalization of Large ARF-GEFs as a Potential Mechanism for BFA Resistance in COG-Deficient Cells

Defects in subunits of the conserved oligomeric Golgi (COG) complex represent a growing subset of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDGs). In addition to altered protein glycosylation and vesicular trafficking, Cog-deficient patient fibroblasts exhibit a striking delay in the Golgi-disrupting effects of brefeldin A (BFA). Despite the diagnostic value of this BFA resistance, the molecular basis of this response is not known. To investigate potential mechanisms of resistance, we analyzed the localization of the large ARF-GEF, GBF1, in several Cog-deficient cell lines. Our results revealed mislocalization of GBF1 to non-Golgi compartments, in particular the ERGIC, within these cells. Biochemical analysis of GBF1 in control and BFA-treated fibroblasts demonstrated that the steady-state level and membrane recruitment is not substantially affected by COG deficiency, supporting a role for the COG complex in the localization but not membrane association of GBF1. We also showed that pretreatment of fibroblasts with bafilomycin resulted in a GBF1-independent BFA resistance that appears additive with the resistance associated with COG deficiency. These data provide new insight into the mechanism of BFA resistance in Cog-deficient cells by suggesting a role for impaired ARF-GEF localization.
PPAR-gamma and aging: one link through klotho?

PPAR-γ, a transcription factor involved in adipogenesis, glucose homeostasis, bone turnover, and inflammation, has now been shown to increase klotho expression. Klotho is predominantly expressed by the kidney and functions at the tubule and in the circulation as an anti-aging factor and a hormone participating in mineral metabolism. The finding that klotho is upregulated by PPAR-γ may prompt further exploration of the role and mechanism of action of PPAR-γ in aging and bone diseases.
Isolation and characterization of the siderophore N -deoxyschizokinen from Bacillus megaterium ATCC 19213

N-Deoxyschizokinen, a novel siderophore, was isolated from stationary phase cultures of Bacillus megaterium ATCC 19213 and identified as 4-[(3(acetylhydroxyamino)propyl)amino]-2-[2-[(3-(acetylamino)propyl)amino]-2-oxoethyl]-2-hydroxy-4-oxo-butanoic acid. The siderophore was purified by HPLC and its structure determined using 1H and 13C NMR, 1H-1H COSY and electrospray mass spectroscopy. The monohydroxamate siderophore has the same carbon skeleton as schizokinen but the hydroxyl group on one hydroxamate is replaced by a hydrogen. A detailed 1H NMR study of schizokinen, N-deoxyschizokinen and their imides, schizokinen A and N-deoxyschizokinen A is presented.
Uniform color scales: CIE 1964 U * V * W * conversion of OSA Committee selection

The colors of the regular rhombohedral selection reported by the OSA Committee on Uniform Color Scales are shown in the CIE 1964 U*V*W* color space.
Using statistics to increase public library budgets

Discusses the use of library statistics to justify budget increases for public library programs. Focuses on three major budget areas: staff, collection, and facilities. Provides guidance on deciding which data are relevant to a specific argument. Identifies internal and external sources of data. Describes methods of using data to create an effective budget presentation including simple data use techniques and tips for creating more straightforward and effective graphical displays of data.
Nanoparticle based boolean logic

Abstract Arrays of passivated gold nanoparticles have been shown to exhibit single electron transport behavior at room temperature. The ratio of the self-capacitance to the interparticle capacitance is very different to that reported for single electron devices fabricated using traditional methods. This ratio suggests that novel device behavior may be possible in organized arrays of nanoparticles. We report on simulations of single electron logic circuits designed using parameters expected for circuits made using passivated gold nanoparticles. We will show AND- and NAND-gate behavior from an electron-pump gated one-dimensional array of nanoparticles.
Looking Through an Adolescent Literacy Lens at the Narrow View of Reading

Purpose This commentary is a personal reaction to A. G. Kamhi’s (2007) article on the “narrow view” of reading and his suggestion that this view be adopted as a way to address the reading problems ...
Encapsulation of a microtoroid resonator side-coupled to a fiber taper into a polymer matrix

We demonstrate that a whispering gallery mode (WGM) microtoroidal optical resonator retains its high quality factor Q > 107 when encapsulated into a low index polymer matrix. We tested the packaged system in water with various salt concentrations and temperatures, and in air under various room conditions, showing that the polymer package keeps the resonator intact from degrading effects of environment, providing a robust and stable resonator-fiber coupling. The developed packaging technique provides portability to on-chip WGM resonators, enabling operations in the field.
Plasma-assisted vapor deposition processes and some applications

Abstract This paper reviews plasma-assisted vapor deposition processes. Emphasis is placed on the role of the plasma environment, particularly for reactive deposition processes, in the three steps involved in deposition processes: generation of vapor, transport to the substrate and film growth. Examples of applications to wear resistant coatings are reviewed.
Properties of YbAgCu4 at high pressures and magnetic fields.

We have measured the electrical resistivity of ${\mathrm{YbAgCu}}_{4}$ at quasihydrostatic pressures to 190 kbar and in magnetic fields to 8 T. At ambient pressure, ${\mathrm{YbAgCu}}_{4}$ is weakly mixed valent and has a Sommerfeld coefficient of specific heat \ensuremath{\gamma} of approximately 240 mJ/mole ${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$. With applied pressure, the ground-state degeneracy is reduced from eightfold to twofold degenerate as the energy scale ${\mathit{T}}_{0}$ characterizing the strongly correlated electron system is reduced from 130 to \ensuremath{\sim}0.9 K at 190 kbar and \ensuremath{\gamma} is estimated to increase to approximately 4900 mJ/mole ${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$. At intermediate pressures ${\mathit{T}}_{0}$ and crystal-field splittings are comparable, which accounts for the lack of resistive scaling at these pressures. Systematics in the pressure-dependent resistivity suggest that ${\mathrm{YbAgCu}}_{4}$ should order magnetically at pressures not far above 190 kbar. The ``residual resistivity'' ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{0}$ of ${\mathrm{YbAgCu}}_{4}$ increases dramatically with decreasing volume due to resonant scattering of heavy quasiparticles by lattice defects. At high pressures and low temperatures the magnetoresistance is large and negative and has the field dependence expected of a spin-1/2 Kondo impurity. The pressure and field dependences of ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{0}$ and the ${\mathit{T}}^{2}$ coefficient of resistivity raise the question of their functional relationship and how we are to understand impuritylike behavior in a band of strongly correlated quasiparticles.
Are Member Firms of Corporate Groups Less Risky

The evidence we uncover suggests that the practice of profit and risk sharing among keiretsu firms reduces the firm level idiosyncratic risk. However, rather than eliminating firm-level risk, it is being transformed into market-level risk. Since market-level risk is priced, this actually destroys shareholders’ wealth. Additionally, the heightened correlation among keiretsu firms essentially diminishes the diversification efficacy of a portfolio of keiretsu firms. In summary, our results suggest that the practice of profit and risk sharing, which on the surface seems to be a blessing, may actually have a detrimental effect on the value of keiretsu firms.
Influence of Behavioral Thermoregulation on Microhabitat Use by Two Sceloporus Lizards

I investigated the relationship between microhabitat use and behavioral thermoregulation in the lizards Sceloporus occidentalis and S. graciosus. I studied two populations of each species along a 1300-m elevational gradient in the San Gabriel Moun- tains of southern California. These species occupy different, but overlapping, elevational ranges, with S. graciosus occurring at higher elevations. Because their ranges differ, the species experience different thermal environments; however, they are nearly identical in several measures of thermal physiology. Body temperatures of active lizards varied little with altitude, although air temperatures decrease substantially over this range. Both species compensated behaviorally for variation in thermal environments by varying basking frequency and microhabitat use. By ther- moregulating, lizards maintained body temperatures that favor high levels of locomotor performance and other physiological functions. Microhabitat use varied markedly with elevation. Sceloporus occidentalis was almost completely arboreal at low elevation; lizards of both species were partly arboreal, partly terrestrial at intermediate elevation; and S. graciosus was mainly terrestrial at high ele- vations. Thus, the species converged in microhabitat use where sympatric. These shifts in microhabitat use paralleled altitudinal changes in (i) the spatial location of thermally suit- able microhabitats and (ii) habitat structure. Behavioral thermoregulation, then, appears to be an important determinant of habitat use in these lizards. Results of this study may have important implications for lizard community ecology. Microhabitats that are otherwise appropriate for lizards can be thermally unsuitable, de- pending on the local thermal environment. Hence, the thermal environment and lizard thermal biology constrain patterns of structural habitat use. As a result, physiological considerations could limit the behavioral and evolutionary options for species experiencing interspecific competition. For example, competitors in sympatry may be unable to evolve microhabitat resource partitioning because only a subset of microhabitats are thermally suitable.
Antiproton production from heavy ion collisions at 14.6 GeV/c.

Antiproton production from heavy ion collisions involves a strong competition between creation and annihilation mechanisms. Due to the high threshold energy, antiprotons mostly arise from the highest energy baryon-baryon collisions. We have identified a three-body screening mechanism which strongly reduces the subsequent absorption of antiprotons in the medium. We have used a relativistic cascade code to study this effect, and find that it is essential to obtaining good agreement with recent [ital [bar p]] production data from Brookhaven experiment E802.
Multiple imputation for combining confidential data owned by two agencies

Summary. Statistical agencies that own different databases on overlapping subjects can benefit greatly from combining their data. These benefits are passed on to secondary data analysts when the combined data are disseminated to the public. Sometimes combining data across agencies or sharing these data with the public is not possible: one or both of these actions may break promises of confidentiality that have been given to data subjects. We describe an approach that is based on two stages of multiple imputation that facilitates data sharing and dissemination under restrictions of confidentiality. We present new inferential methods that properly account for the uncertainty that is caused by the two stages of imputation. We illustrate the approach by using artificial and genuine data.
The enhancement of bone allograft incorporation by the local delivery of the sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor targeted drug FTY720

Poor vascularization coupled with mechanical instability is the leading cause of post-operative complications and poor functional prognosis of massive bone allografts. To address this limitation, we designed a novel continuous polymer coating system to provide sustained localized delivery of pharmacological agent, FTY720, a selective agonist for sphingosine 1-phosphate receptors, within massive tibial defects. In vitro drug release studies validated 64% loading efficiency with complete release of compound following 14 days. Mechanical evaluation following six weeks of healing suggested significant enhancement of mechanical stability in FTY720 treatment groups compared with unloaded controls. Furthermore, superior osseous integration across the host-graft interface, significant enhancement in smooth muscle cell investment, and reduction in leukocyte recruitment was evident in FTY720 treated groups compared with untreated groups. Using this approach, we can capitalize on the existing mechanical and biomaterial properties of devitalized bone, add a controllable delivery system while maintaining overall porous structure, and deliver a small molecule compound to constitutively target vascular remodeling, osseous remodeling, and minimize fibrous encapsulation within the allograft-host bone interface. Such results support continued evaluation of drug-eluting allografts as a viable strategy to improve functional outcome and long-term success of massive cortical allograft implants.
The Influence of Oral Penicillamine and Diet on Lead Poisoning in Rats

In spite of continued lead intake, the oral chelate d-penicillamine was effective in reducing blood lead levels of lead-poisoned weanling rats on three different low-residue diets: a standard rat diet, a low calcium diet, and the trace metal salt modified EPA diet. A significant lessening of weight gain was evident in those on the low calcium diet.
Cross section for aluminum K -shell ionization by oxygen ions

Experimental $\mathrm{Al}(K)$ x-ray production cross sections are reported for atomic oxygen projectiles incident on solid aluminum targets with kinetic energy $E$ in the range $0.15\ensuremath{\le}E\ensuremath{\le}91$ MeV from which Al $K$-shell ionization cross sections are deduced for the projectile energy range $1\ensuremath{\le}E\ensuremath{\le}91$ MeV. For $E\ensuremath{\lesssim}1$ MeV nearly all observed x rays are caused by the recoiling aluminum atoms. The results are compared with theories of Coulomb ionization to the target continuum. Differences between experiment and these theories are examined with respect to contributions to inner-shell ionization from electon capture and Pauli excitation. It is found that Coulomb ionization is the dominant process for projectile velocities ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{1}g4$ a.u., while Pauli excitation dominates when ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{1}l4$ a.u. Electron-capture processes are significant at high energies, but are negligible for ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{1}l4$ a.u. for this projectile target system.
Personality traits and pathology in older and younger incarcerated women.

Personality disorders were examined in 157 incarcerated women, using the Schedule for Nonadaptive and Adaptive Personality (SNAP; Clark, 1996) to assess 10 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition, Revised (DSM-III-R; American Psychiatric Association, 1987) diagnostic categories and dimensions and 15 domains of trait/temperament relevant to disordered personality. Similar to both community samples and incarcerated men, older women had lower rates of personality disorders than younger women, and the difference was mostly accounted for by differences in the Cluster B disorders. In an exploratory analysis of trait and temperament scales, the older women also scored lower in Aggression, Disinhibition, Entitlement, Exhibitionism, Impulsivity, and Manipulativeness while younger women scored lower in Workaholism and Propriety. These findings suggest that remission of antisocial behavior in women may be associated with changes in lower order personality traits or temperament. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 457–464, 2002
Less is more: blunted responses to hypoxia revealed in sea-level Tibetans

a distinct set of physiological responses (e.g., elevated hemoglobin, ventilation, hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction) is elicited in most humans exposed to hypoxia. However, native Tibetans, whose ancestors first inhabited highland regions hundreds of generations ago, exhibit a unique combination
Setting the White House Conference on Aging Agenda: Recommendations from an Expert Panel

The next White House Conference on Aging (WHCoA) will take place in May, 1995. In preparation for the conference, a panel of expert policy researchers was convened to develop recommendations regarding the WHCoA theme and agenda. This article presents in summary form the key findings of this panel. Six major themes are proposed for the agenda. In addition, a strategy is proposed for organizing and prioritizing recommendations that emerge from the 1995 WHCoA.
Training in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Quantifying the learning curve.

There is no clear consensus on the best way to train general surgeons to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). We attempted to quantify the “learning curve” for 86 surgeons attending eight consecutive 3-day, three-pig courses in LC. Each step of the operation was scored by the instructor for successful performance: Uncomplicated pneumoperitoneum (p), cystic duct and artery dissection (cd), artery and duct clipping (cc), operative cholangiography (oc), gallbladder dissection without holes (gd), liver bed hemostasis (h), gallbladder removal in one piece (i), and no abdominal organ injury (in). As well, operative time, method of dissection, and contact Nd: YAG or electrocautery were recorded. The percentage of students successfully completing each task for the first and third pigs on which they acted as surgeon was as follows: The operative time for the first and third pigs was 1.3±0.56 and 0.70±0.34 (mean±SD) h, respectively (P<0.01). When students were trained with the contact Nd: YAG laser there was more blood loss than with electrosurgery (P<0.001). Statistically significant improvement could only be demonstrated in the most difficult task, gallbladder dissection without perforation, but that task had not been mastered by the end of 3 days. The flat portion of the laparoscopic cholecystectomy “training curve” had not been reached by the end of the program.
Wavelength Dependence of the Photorefractive and Photodiffractive Properties of Holographic Thin Films Based on Bacteriorhodopsin

The photorefractive and photodiffractive properties of a 2 × 10−3 M, 30μim thin film of bacteriorhodopsin at - 40°C are analyzed by using optical absorption spectroscopy, the Kramers- Kronig transformation and coupled wave theory. Conversion of M to bR generates a dispersion in the refractive index that has a broad negative band from 450 to 540 nm [Δn500nm - -0.0016] and a broad positive band from 590 to 700 nm [Δn605nm - 0.0016]. The large change in refractive index for moderate solute concentration is due to the formation of the protonated Schiff base chromophore in bR which generates a large red shift in the absorption spectrum as well as a large increase in oscillator strength. The integrated diffraction efficiency from 300 - 800nm is dominated by refractive index contributions (ηphase) which are maximum in regions of minimal bR and M absorption. The maximum in the refractive (phase) component occurs at 451 nm (ηphase - 9.7%) whereas the maximum in the absorption component occurs at 575 nm (ηabs - 2.2%). The maximum efficiency of diffraction is observed at ~440 nm (ηtotal - 10.7%). Adequate diffractive performance for most applications is predicted for write wavelengths in the regions 380 - 420 & 500 - 650 nm and for read wavelengths from 380 to 740 nm.
Pyrolytic elimination reactions of sulfinate and sulfonate esters

The barriers to pyrolytic unimolecular elimination by ethyl methanesulfonate and ethyl methanesulfinate were calculated for both five-membered ring eliminations that yield acetaldehyde and six-membered ring eliminations that yield ethylene. The experimental observation that related sulfinates undergo the five-centered elimination and sulfonates the six-centered elimination is reproduced by the calculations and rationalized in terms of a nucleophilicity/electrophilicity matching issue in the former and a charge-separated transition state in the latter. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of protein-stained immunoblots for unequivocal identification of antibody specificities.

Abstract The unequivocal identification of immunochemically detected proteins on nitrocellulose blots requires precise alignment of the antibody stained antigen spot with the protein-stained pattern. We report a method for the staining of proteins on nitrocellulose membranes immediately after electroblotting with Amido Black 10B under mild conditions which do not result in loss of antigenic activity. These membranes can then be probed with immunological detection reagents and the detected antigen correlated with the stained pattern. The procedure is simple, fast and particularly useful for the identification of antibody-labelled spots on blots of high-resolution two-dimensional gels.
Caspofungin: A Potential Cause of Reversible Severe Thrombocytopenia

Caspofungin is an echinocandin agent approved for the treatment of invasive candidiasis and refractory aspergillosis. Compared with amphotericin B, caspofungin has an improved safety profile, but clinical experience with this agent is still accumulating. A 68-year-old man developed reversible severe thrombocytopenia, possibly due to caspofungin, after being successfully treated for Candida albicans endocarditis. Given the limited clinical experience with caspofungin, continued vigilance for unusual and serious adverse events associated with the drug is imperative.
Emotional avoidance and rumination as mediators of the relation between adult attachment and emotional disclosure

Abstract The authors evaluated emotional avoidance as a mediator of the relation between attachment avoidance (i.e., fear of dependency) and emotional disclosure and rumination as a mediator of the relation between attachment anxiety (i.e., fear of rejection) and emotional disclosure. Two operational definitions were used for each of three variables – emotional avoidance, rumination, and emotional disclosure – such that hypotheses were tested on generalized self-appraisals and responses to specific emotional events. College students (N = 116) first completed generalized self-report measures of attachment, expressive suppression (i.e., emotional avoidance), rumination, and emotional-disclosure tendencies. Then, during a 7-day diary study, they provided daily reports of emotional avoidance, rumination, and disclosure concerning the day’s most unpleasant event. Attachment avoidance was negatively related to disclosure tendencies and daily-event disclosure; emotional avoidance was supported as a mediator in the generalized self-report analyses. Attachment anxiety was positively related to both measures of rumination, and daily-event rumination was positively related to daily-event disclosure, but mediation was not supported in either analysis. The findings suggest implications for theories of attachment and emotion regulation.
MEN type IIa syndrome: Dilemmas in modern management

With the use of newer techniques, the multiple endocrine neoplasm Il-A syndrome can now be diagnosed early in its evolution. This article discusses the clinical course of the syndrome, the diagnostic modalities employed, and the therapeutic interventions required. An approach to the individual patient with this syndrome is presented.
Lung cancer: reproducibility of quantitative measurements for evaluating 2-[F-18]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake at PET.

PURPOSE: To study the precision of repeated 2-[fluorine-18]-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) uptake measurements at positron emission tomography (PET) in patients with primary lung cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients with untreated lung cancer underwent two dynamic FDG PET examinations after a 4-hour fast within 1 week. Kinetic modeling of tumor FDG uptake was performed on the basis of a three-compartment model. The tumor concentration of F-18 (standardized uptake value calculated on the basis of predicted lean body mass [SUV-lean]) was also measured 50-60 minutes after injection of a tracer. Blood glucose, insulin, and free fatty acid levels were monitored. RESULTS: SUV-lean and the FDG influx constant Ki were measured with a mean +/- standard deviation difference of 10% +/- 7 and 10% +/- 8, respectively, over repeated PET scans. The mean difference was reduced to 6% +/- 6 and 6% +/- 5 by multiplying SUV-lean and Ki by plasma glucose concentration. CONCLUSION: SUV-lean and graphical Ki can be measu...
Bimetallic RhRe/C catalysts for the production of biomass-derived chemicals

Abstract Pretreatment temperature affects the activity of a RhRe/C catalyst for C O hydrogenolysis of 2-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydropyran and for dehydration of fructose. Catalytic activities for both C O hydrogenolysis and dehydration were observed to decrease with an increase in pretreatment temperature from 393 to 723 K, which coincides with a decrease in the number of sites quantified using NH 3 temperature-programmed desorption. Results for the characterization of RhRe/C using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) are consistent with the formation of Rh-rich particles with a shell of metallic Re islands after reduction at 393 K, which shows penetration of Re into the nanoparticle with increasing reduction temperature. No evidence of rhenium oxide was found from the Re L III -edge XAS spectra after reduction at temperatures above 363 K or under aqueous operando conditions. The apparent acidity of RhRe/C is suggested to be generated from the activation of water molecules over Re atoms on the surface of metallic Rh Re particles.
Plant breeding methods and current problems in developing improved varieties of tomatoes

An even greater use of the tomato as a food plant than at present may be possible through the breeding of more productive varieties having higher nutritive value and vitamin-C content. Such varieties might be developed by incorporating in the cultigen, Lyco persicon esculentum, certain desirable genes found in closely related species. For this purpose further genetic studies are necessary, and the development of suitable plant-breeding methods.
Implementing An Intensive Glucose Management Initiative: Strategies for Success

Glycemic control has become a hallmark for this ICU. Collectively, staff and hospital leaders changed a culture of casual attitudes toward chaotic glycemic control to an evidence-based atmosphere of decreased mortality, which has received local and national recognition. Implementation of a protocol , which seemed radical at the time, showed significant patient outcomes. Characterized by teamwork and education, the process was developed, initiated and continually evaluated for improvement, with a cornerstone of patient safety. The rich database allows for continual analysis of outcomes.
Parathyroid Hormone Receptor Trafficking Contributes to the Activation of Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinases but Is Not Required for Regulation of cAMP Signaling *

Agonist-mediated activation of the type 1 parathyroid hormone receptor (PTH1R) results in several signaling events and receptor endocytosis. It is well documented that arrestins contribute to desensitization of both Gs- and Gq-mediated signaling and mediate PTH1R internalization. However, whether PTH1R trafficking directly contributes to signaling remains unclear. To address this question, we investigated the role of PTH1R trafficking in cAMP signaling and activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases ERK1/2 in HEK-293 cells. Dominant negative forms of dynamin (K44A-dynamin) and β-arrestin1 (β-arrestin1-(319–418)) abrogated PTH1R internalization but had no effect on cAMP signaling; neither acute cAMP production by PTH nor desensitization and resensitization of cAMP signaling were affected. Therefore, PTH1R trafficking is not necessary for regulation of cAMP signaling. PTH-(1–34) induced rapid and robust activation of ERK1/2. A PTHrP-based analog ([p-benzoylphenylalanine1, Ile5,Arg11,13,Tyr36]PTHrP-(1–36)NH2), which selectively activates the Gs/cAMP pathway without inducing PTH1R endocytosis, failed to stimulate ERK1/2 activity. Inhibition of PTH1R endocytosis by K44A-dynamin dampened ERK1/2 activation in response to PTH-(1–34) by 69%. Incubation with the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor AG1478 reduced ERK1/2 phosphorylation further. In addition, ERK1/2 phosphorylation occurred following internalization of a PTH1R mutant induced by PTH-(7–34) in the absence of G protein signaling. Collectively, these data indicate that PTH1R trafficking and Gq (but not Gs) signaling independently contribute to ERK1/2 activation, predominantly via transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor.
Conformationally Gated Fragmentations and Rearrangements Promoted by Interception of the Bergman Cyclization through Intramolecular H-Abstraction: A Possible Mechanism of Auto-Resistance to Natural Enediyne Antibiotics?

A variety of fragmentations and rearrangements can follow Bergman cyclization in enediynes equipped with acetal rings mimicking the carbohydrate moiety of natural enediyne antibiotics of the esperamicine and calchiamicine families. In the first step of all these processes, intramolecular H-atom abstraction efficiently intercepts the p-benzyne product of the Bergman cyclization through a six-membered TS and transforms the p-benzyne into a new more stable radical. Depending on the substitution pattern and reaction conditions, this radical follows four alternative paths: (a) abstraction of an external hydrogen atom, (b) O-neophyl rearrangement which transposes O- and C-atoms of the substituent, (c) fragmentation of the O-C bond in the acetal ring, or (d) fragmentation with elimination of the appended acetal moiety as a whole. Experiments with varying concentrations of external H-atom donor (1,4-cyclohexadiene) were performed to gain further insight into the competition between intermolecular H-abstraction and the fragmentations. The Thorpe-Ingold effect in gem-dimethyl substituted enediynes enhances the efficiency of fragmentation to the extent where it cannot be prevented even by a large excess of external H-atom donor. These processes provide insight into a possible mechanism of unusual fragmentation of esperamicin A(1) upon its Bergman cycloaromatization and lay foundation for a new approach for the conformational control of reactivity of these natural antitumor antibiotics. Such an approach, in conjunction with supramolecular constraints, may provide a plausible mechanism for resistance to enediyne antibiotics by the enediyne-producing microorganisms.
Relation of concentrations of Haemophilus influenzae type b in cerebrospinal fluid to late sequelae of patients with meningitis

Forty-four patients with Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis had follow-up evaluations approximately one year after hospital discharge. Patients with >-10 7 colony-forming units of H. influenzae type b per milliliters CSF had significantly greater frequencies of speech impairment ( P P =0.04), and moderate or severe neurologic sequelae ( P H. influenzae b antigen/ml CSF had a greater incidence of hearing loss ( P =0.03) but not of speech abnormalities ( P =0.06) or other neurologic sequelae ( P =0.64). Glucose concentrations P =0.02) and speech impairment ( P =0.02). "Partial" antibiotic therapy, CSF protein concentrations, and number of CSF polymorphonuclear leukocytes did not correlate well with sequelae. These data indicate that pretreatment concentrations of H. influenzae b and glucose concentrations in CSF were the best predictors of late sequelae of patients with H. influenzae b meningitis.
Electrical Pulse Fabricated Graphene Nanopores for Single Molecule Sensing

Single nanometer-sized pores in suspended graphene membranes have been used to detect and control DNA molecules, and could be the basis for next-generation single-molecule DNA sequencing devices. The extremely thin graphene membrane can offer superior longitudinal resolution to protein nanopores, leading to lower error rates for sequencing. We demonstrate a novel method of creating graphene pores by applying short electrical pulses across graphene membranes already wet in solution, allowing rapid fabrication of pores with subnanometer precision. These pores readily exhibit translocation of double and single stranded DNA, and are a robust and scalable platform for sequencing devices.
AGRICULTURAL OFF-ROAD FUEL TAX: MIDWESTERN COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT

During the past several years, state governments across the United States have engaged in a variety of new efforts to curb motor fuels tax evasion. Unlike the income tax, which is typically evaded through a simple reporting error or other manipulation, motor fuels tax evasion often occurs because potential evaders are able to exploit the complexity of the audit, collection, and exemption processes. Estimates of annual revenue losses related to this sort of evasion are substantial, ranging from $1.5 billion to $2.5 billion. In response to these estimates, FHWA and a number of state governments have implemented changes designed to streamline the administration of this often-overlooked but critical revenue source. The potential for evasion that results from the fuel tax exemptions that Wisconsin provides for agricultural "off-road" uses was examined. The investigation began with a statistical analysis of recent tax-exempt fuel consumption and monthly rebate figures for all midwestern states. These results in...
20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid is a vasoconstrictor in the newborn piglet pulmonary microcirculation

20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), a cytochrome p-450 metabolite of arachidonic acid, is a vasoconstrictor in the systemic circulation and a vasodilator in the adult pulmonary circulation. Little is known about the vasoactive properties of 20-HETE in the newborn pulmonary circulation. The objectives of this study were to determine the vascular effects of 20-HETE and to explore the signaling mechanism(s) that mediate these effects in newborn pulmonary resistance-level arteries (PRA). Our findings demonstrate that, in contrast to the adult pulmonary circulation where 20-HETE mediates vasodilation, it causes constriction in newborn PRA at resting tone. Furthermore, inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) with indomethacin augments 20-HETE-induced constriction. The enhanced constrictor response to 20-HETE under conditions of COX inhibition is abolished in endothelium-disrupted PRA, suggesting that 20-HETE either stimulates endothelium-derived COX to release a counteracting vasodilator or is rapidly metabolized by COX to a less potent vasoconstrictor. 20-HETE-induced constriction is significantly inhibited by blocking calcium-dependent K(+) (K(Ca)) channels and the thromboxane-PGH(2) receptor. Altogether, our data indicate that the vascular actions of 20-HETE are partially mediated via the activation of K(Ca) channels and are significantly modulated by interactions with the COX-prostaglandin pathway.
Nonlinear optical properties and photonic applications of thin films of organic materials

We fabricated several polymer thin films doped with photo-sensitive azobenzene molecules by using spin-coating technique. Nonlinear optical properties and novel photonics applications including temporal four-wave mixing, transient optical modulator, spatial light modulator and nonvolatile grating are demonstrated.
Issues regarding artificial neural network modeling for reactors and fermenters

In recent years researchers in many areas have used artificial neural networks (ANNs) to model a variety of physical relationships. While in many cases this selection appears sound and reasonable, one must remember than ANN modeling is an empirical modeling technique (based on data) and is subject to the limitations of such techniques. Poor prediction occurs when the training data set does not contain adequate “information” to model a dynamic process. Using data from a simulated continuous-stirred tank reactor, this paper illustrates four scenarios: (1) steady state, (2) large process time constant, (3) infrequent sampling, and (4) variable sampling rate. The first scenario is typical of simulation studies while the other three incorporate attributes found in real plant data. For the cases in which ANNs predicted well, linear regression (LR), one of the oldest empirical modeling techniques, predicted equally well, and when LR failed to accurately model/predict the data, ANNs predicted poorly. Since real plant data would resemble a combination of situations (2), (3), and (4), it is important to understand that empirical models are not necessarily appropriate for predictively modeling dynamic processes in practice.
Preliminary X-ray analysis of Escherichia coli GMP synthetase: Determination of anomalous scattering factors for a cysteinyl mercury derivative

We have initiated a project to determine the three-dimensional structure of GMP synthetase (GMPS) from Escherichia coli. GMPS catalyzes the conversion of XMP to GMP in the final step of de novo guanine nucleotide biosynthesis, and is a member of the glutamine amidotransferase family: a group of enzymes responsible for the assimilation of nitrogen into compounds such as amino acids, purine and pyrimidine bases, amino sugars, and antibiotics. The E. coli guaA gene encoding GMPS was cloned into a tac expression vector, overexpressed, and its gene product purified. Conditions for the growth of protein crystals were developed using recombinant GMPS in the presence of MgCl2, ATP, and XMP. The crystals are monoclinic, space group P2(1), with cell parameters of a = 156.0 A, b = 102.0 A, c = 78.8 A, beta = 96.7 degrees. Diffraction data to 2.8 A spacings were collected on a Xuong-Hamlin area detector with an overall Rsym of 5.2%. Both the volume of the unit cell and the peaks in the self-rotation function are consistent with one GMPS tetramer of D2 symmetry in the crystallographic asymmetric unit. Previously, GMPS has been observed only as a dimer in solution. GMPS was covalently modified with p-chloromercuribenzylsulfonic acid (PCMBS), and its X-ray fluorescence spectrum was measured through the LIII absorption edge of mercury. Anomalous scattering factors for cysteinyl mercury were derived from this spectrum, and the feasibility of structure determination by multi-wavelength anomalous diffraction was evaluated. The optimal MAD dispersive signal is 4.5% of magnitude of F, and the optimal MAD Bijvoet signal is 7.5% of magnitude of F at a concentration of approximately 1 mercury per 10-kDa protein. The anomalous scattering factors tabulated here should be transferable to cysteinyl mercury in other proteins.
Performance limitations in switched- capacitor filters

Switched-capacitor (SC) filters continue to improve in performance mainly through progress in the design of MOS operational amplifiers (op amps). Ultimate limits to achievable filter performance, however, stem from factors more fundamental than op amp nonidealities, factors independent of process and circuit improvements. This paper develops, from certain basic assumptions, ultimate limits on dynamic range, chip area, and power consumption in SC integrators and low-pass filters. For integrators, minimum area and power requirements are shown to vary as the square of desired dynamic range. Some physically realistic approximations lead to expressions relating filter area, power consumption, and dynamic range which involve only fundamental process parameters, supply voltage and filter cut-off frequency. Comparison with actual performance in typical commercially manufactured SC filters suggests that there is still a strong motivation in improving op amp specifications. A typical commercial fifth-order voiceband filter operating from a \pm 5-V supply with a dynamic range of 95 dB consumes approximately 5 mW and requires an area of approximately 5000 {mil}^{2} compared with the theoretical minima of 8.5 \mu W and 11.2 {mil}^{2} , respectively.
A Review of Codes of Ethics in the United States and Ethical Dilemmas Surrounding the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)

A growing number of studies related to human remains in Korea highlight the need for developing professional ethics codes and laws that govern disposition and treatment of human remains. In order to provide models for developing ethics codes and regulations relevant to the field of biological anthropology in Korea, the current paper presents a review of ethics codes in the United States related to the procurement, curation, and study of human remains. In the first half of the paper, we provide a full treatment of ethics codes of major professional organizations, including code definition, development, and revision. The latter half of the paper is dedicated to discussions of ethical issues surrounding a United States federal law, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), and a high-profile case of the Kennewick man, the Ancient One. These two examples will demonstrate the difficulty in anticipating ethical issues and unintended misconduct in the course of research. NAGPRA and the Kennewick Man further emphasize three simple yet important take- home points for biological anthropologists and other professionals working with human remains: 1) to be reflective about potential ethical issues related to their research, 2) to be collaborative and encourage involvement of descendant communities at all stages of research, and 3) to be respectful of different worldviews of death between (sub)cultures. Finally, we close our discussion with possible sources of ethical conflicts in Korea to help prepare biological anthropologists as more excavations of human remains take place in Korea.
Using Quality and Cost for Employee Incentives in a Reengineered Hospital Setting

The Mount Sinai Hospital is reengineering its inpa tient services to increase the quality of patient care and achieve greater operational efficiency. The central com ponent of this redesign has bee...
The isolation of two proline-containing relaxin species from a porcine relaxin concentrate.

SummaryA combination of exclusion chromatography on Bio-Gel P-10 and electrophoresis on a column of Sephadex G-25 at pH 9 has been used to isolate three proteins with relaxin activity from a porcine relaxin concentrate (NIH relaxin). The three proteins had similar molecular weights (∼5600) but different mobilities on polyacrylamide gels at pH 5.0 and 8.2. Two of them contained one residue of proline per mole. Bioassays indicated that one of the proline-containing relaxins was significantly less active in the guinea pig palpation assay than the other two, while retaining high activity in the rat uterine motility inhibition assay.The authors are indebted to Dr. Wayne A. Chamley, of the Animal Research Institute, Werribee, Australia, for the rat uterine inhibition assays and to Elizabeth M. O'Byrne, of Ciba-Geigy Corp., Ardsley, New York for the immunochemical studies.
Horton hears a Who but no murmurs-does it matter?

A recent editorial in the American Journal of Medicine laments that cardiac auscultation skills appear to be heading for extinction. To reach this conclusion, one has to concur with two implicit assumptions: (i) at some time in the illustrious past of medicine, there was a moment when physicians were good at this skill and we have somehow declined from that peak; and (ii) that this matters—either to patients or to physicians in terms of outcomes—that somehow significant numbers of patients hover on the brink of catastrophe due to failure of auscultatory diagnosis. Let us examine for a moment some of the relevant literature to see if this is actually the case.
Prevention of Future Cardiovascular Disease in High-Risk Pediatric Patients A Role for Lipid Lowering Therapy?

Over the past 3 decades, childhood obesity has increased dramatically and has been deemed an epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.1 The 2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reported that the prevalence of overweight and obese children aged 6 to 19 years was 31%, a 45% increase from the previous survey.2 Obesity has been linked to comorbid conditions in children, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.3,4 There is widespread concern that the increasing prevalence of these cardiovascular risk factors in the pediatric population will lead to a dramatic rise in adult cardiovascular disease. However, because of the difficulty associated with conducting long-term longitudinal studies necessary to validate these concerns, most investigations in this area, to date, have focused on the relationship between childhood obesity and surrogate markers of cardiovascular disease. The presence of obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension in childhood has been linked to elevated left ventricular mass and carotid intima-media thickness, as well as peripheral endothelial dysfunction.4–7 These have been shown to be markers of cardiovascular risk in adult patients.8–10 Other studies have shown that childhood obesity and associated comorbidities are related to early atherosclerosis. In an autopsy series, Berenson et al11 showed that the presence and severity of coronary atherosclerotic plaque in asymptomatic young adults was significantly related to the number of risk factors present, including higher body mass index, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. A recent Danish study is the first to demonstrate a link between childhood obesity and cardiovascular events in adulthood. Baker et al12 identified 275 835 adults for whom there was information on childhood body mass index and found that childhood body mass index was significantly associated with coronary artery events and death in adulthood.12 In light of these findings, the American Academy …