cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interface field effects on solute redistribution during crystallization

This paper deals with orientation-dependent and velocity-dependent k-value effects owing their origin to the difference in interaction energy, between solute and solvent species, with internal fields located at the interface (electrical, structural, etc.). Mathematical analysis of steady-state solute distribution in solid and liquid, for constant interface velocity and exponentially varying field strengths, is presented. An interface distribution coefficient, ki, and a net interface distribution coefficient, k*i, are used to describe the equilibrium and kinetic interface field effects, and k*i is evaluated as a function of V for a variety of special cases. The effective distribution coefficient, k, for stirred systems, is evaluated and shown to agree qualitatively with that type of experimental data and quantitatively with the single piece of suitable data that is available. The theory is extended to the case of k-variations due to external fields and to the development of a modified constitutional supercooling criterion for both internal and external fields with significant consequences for interface stability considerations.
Interaction between Src and a C-terminal Proline-rich Motif of Akt Is Required for Akt Activation

Activation of Akt by growth factors is a multistep process. Here, we provide evidence that tyrosine kinase Src is directly associated with Akt through the interaction between its SH3 domain and a conserved proline-rich motif (PXXP) in the C-terminal regulatory region of Akt. Substitution of the proline residues Pro-424 and Pro-427 by alanines results in loss of Akt activity and phosphorylation induced by the epidermal growth factor (EGF), possibly because these mutations disrupt the interaction between Akt and the SH3 domain of Src. This possibility is corroborated by our observation that the Akt mutant lacking these two prolines fails to bind to Src both in vivo and in vitro. We also showed that phosphorylation of Tyr-315 in Akt induced by Src or EGF is dependent on the integrity of this proline-rich motif. Furthermore, the Akt mutant lacking this proline motif fails to block the transcription activity of Forkhead in 293 cells and poorly stimulates the proliferation of Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. Taken together, our data suggest that the interaction between the SH3 domain of Src family kinases and the proline-rich motif in the C-terminal regulatory region of Akt is required for tyrosine phosphorylation of Akt and its subsequent activation. It is noteworthy that this PXXP motif is conserved throughout several members of AGC kinase family, implying that association of this motif with the SH3 domain of an upstream regulator may represent a general mechanism applicable to these kinases as well.
Five years later

I have often been confronted by the nebulousness of “Social Education.” I have thus worked to push our Social Education program area to define its goals and strategic direction. To provide some heft to our approach, I have called upon colleagues to identify core areas of study in our program. We have collectively decided that our program area emphasizes cultural and media studies, critical pedagogy, and transformative social studies education. We believe that these three core areas of study position us to consider how we might harness the power of “education” to advance social justice. Furthermore, I have challenged colleagues to escape the closed system that often characterizes higher education. Everything we do must connect to the material conditions of education. We need to align our goals to research and action with and for students in all levels of our educational “system.” Above all else, we must connect everything we do to students and schools.
Ammonia production and secretion by S3 proximal tubule segments from acidotic mice: role of ANG II

ANG II has potent effects on ammonia production and secretion rates by the proximal tubule and is found in substantial concentrations in the lumen of the proximal tubule in vivo. Because our previous studies demonstrated that acid loading enhanced the stimulatory effects of ANG II on ammonia production and secretion by S2 proximal tubule segments, we examined the effect of ANG II on ammonia production and secretion by isolated, perfused S3 segments from nonacidotic control mice and acidotic mice given NH4Cl for 7 days. In the absence of ANG II, ammonia production and secretion rates were no different in S3 segments from acidotic and control mice. By contrast, when ANG II was present in the luminal perfusion solution, ammonia production and secretion rates were stimulated, in a losartan-inhibitable manner, to a greater extent in S3 segments from acidotic mice. Ammonia secretion rates in S3 segments were largely inhibited by perfusion with a low-sodium solution containing amiloride in the presence or absence of ANG II. These results demonstrated that isolated, perfused mouse S3 proximal tubule segments produce and secrete ammonia, that NH4Cl-induced acidosis does not affect the basal rates of ammonia production and secretion, and that ANG II, added to the luminal fluid, stimulates ammonia production and secretion to a greater extent in S3 segments from acidotic mice. These findings suggest that S3 segments, in the presence of ANG II, can contribute to the enhanced renal excretion that occurs with acid loading.
Transition Metal Modified TiO2-Loaded MCM-41 Catalysts for Visible- and UV-Light Driven Photodegradation of Aqueous Organic Pollutants

A number of transition metal (Cr, V, Fe, Cu, Mn, Co, Ni, Mo, and La) incorporated MCM-41 mesoporous molecular sieves with Si/Me = 80 have been synthesized by a hydrothermal method. It was demonstrated that the presence of transition metal salts in the gel during synthesis hinders the action of the template, which results in pores of MCM-41 that are not well-formed. These materials were then loaded with TiO2 via the sol−gel method, and the resulting materials were explored for the destruction of 4-chlorophenol in the presence of visible, as well as UV, light. A combination of various physicochemical techniques such as N2 physisorption, O2 chemisorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance UV−vis (DR UV−vis), and temperature program reduction (TPR) were used to characterize the chemical environment of these transition metals in the prepared catalysts. The dispersion of transition metals as determined by O2 chemisorption suggests that they are well dispersed inside the MCM-41 framework, but the disp...
CHUM SALMON SPAWNING ACTIVITY IN TRIBUTARIES BELOW BONNEVILLE DAM: THE RELATIONSHIP WITH TAILWATER ELEVATION AND SEASONAL PRECIPITATION†

Chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) below Bonneville Dam migrate through as well as hold and spawn in both tributaries and mainstem areas of the Columbia River, USA. Whether fluctuations in tailwater elevation influence spawning in tributaries is unclear. We examined the relationship between Bonneville Dam tailwater elevation, seasonal precipitation and chum salmon spawning activities in three tributary spawning areas. In these tributaries, we assessed initial date of entry, time required to enter and length of spawning season, as well as the proportion of the total population that spawned in tributaries and the distribution of spawners among tributaries. Using linear regression, these variables were compared to cumulative hours of tailwater elevation ≥ 3.5 m and cumulative precipitation. Increased Bonneville Dam tailwater elevation was associated with later and longer lasting chum salmon spawning activities, but was not associated with the distribution of chum salmon spawners in tributaries. Increased seasonal precipitation was associated with a more prolonged spawning season and relatively even distribution of adult chum salmon, but was unrelated to the timing of chum salmon spawning in tributaries. The regulation of tailwater elevation downstream from Bonneville Dam can influence the spawning process for chum salmon in tributaries that enter the regulated area. How important this influence is to the decline of chum salmon in the Columbia River is unclear. Published in 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of Adhesion Strength by Focal Adhesion Position and Cell Shape

Cell adhesion to extracellular matrices is critical to numerous cellular functions and is primarily mediated by integrin receptors. Binding and aggregation of integrins leads to the formation of focal adhesions (FA) which connect the cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix in order to reinforce adhesion and transmit signals [1]. Preliminary observations indicated preferential recruitment of FAs to the periphery of the cell spreading area on both uniformly coated and micropatterned fibronectin surfaces (Fig. 1). The current study investigates the biophysical regulation of cell adhesion strength based on the size and position of FA with the central hypothesis that peripheral FAs stabilize adhesion strength. The hypothesis was tested by delineating the cell spreading area from the total cell adhesive area by employing microcontact printing to pattern substrates with a series of circular and annular adhesive islands which control cell shape (Fig. 2). A well characterized hydrodynamic shear assay known as the spinning disk device was used to quantify the adhesion strength of cells adhered to the micropatterns [2].Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Mindfulness Skills and Anxiety-Related Cognitive Processes Among Young Adult Daily Smokers: A Pilot Test

We examined specific mindfulness skills (observing, describing, acting with awareness, accepting without judgment, as measured by the Kentucky Inventory of Mindfulness Skills, in terms of anxiety-related cognitive processes among adult daily smokers (n = 90; 43 females; Mage = 26.6 years, SD = 11.8). Partially consistent with hypotheses, describing and accepting without judgment were each shown to significantly predict perceived control over anxiety-related events. The observed significant effects were evident above and beyond the variance accounted for by gender, smoking rate, and negative affectivity. Although observing also was shown to significantly predict agoraphobic cognition, it was in the opposite direction as was theoretically expected. No evidence of incremental validity for mindfulness skills was evident for anxiety sensitivity. These data highlight the potential explanatory relevance of only specific mindfulness skills in terms of only certain anxiety-based cognitive processes among adult daily smokers.
Antibiotics as low-molecular-mass displacers in ion-exchange displacement chromatography

Abstract While the ability to carry out simultaneous concentration and purification in a single displacement step has significant advantages for downstream processing of pharmaceuticals, a major impediment to the implementtion of displacement chromatography has been the lack of suitable displacer compounds. An important recent advance in the state-of-the-art of displacement chromatography has been the discovery that low-molecular-mass dendritic polymers and protected amino acids can be successfully employed as displacers for protein purification in ion-exchange systems. In this paper, the efficacy of aminoglycosidic antibiotic displacers are investigated for protein purification in cation-exchange systems. The displacers neomycin B and streptomycin A are employed with model feed mixtures containing moderately to very strongly retained proteins. These experiments demonstrate that this new class of low-molecular-mass antibiotic displacers can indeed act as efficient protein displacers. In fact, the displacer neomycin B is the first low-molecular-mass displacer reported i the literature which can readily displace very strongly retained proteins such as lysozyme. In addition to the fundamental interest generaed by low-molecular-mass displacers, it is likely that these displacers will have significant operational advantages as compared to large polyelectrolyte displacers.
Platelet and Fibrinogen Kinetics with [75Se]Selenomethionine in Thrombocytopenic States. II

Summary Simultaneous platelet and fibrinogen kinetics were determined with a cohort label, [75Se]selenomethionine, in 19 thrombocytopenic patients divided into three groups. Group 1 consisted of six patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, five were splenectomized and one treated with corticosteroids after the isotope study; Group 2 consisted of four patients with hypersplenism who were splenectomized after the isotope study; and Group 3—nonsplenectomized patients—consisted of two with hepatic cirrhosis, six with either leukaemia or lymphoma and one with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH). A control group, consisting of patients with non-haernatologic disease and normal coagulation profiles, had a mean platelet survival of 10.5 days and a mean fibrinogen survival of 7.8 days. In both Groups 1 and 2 the mean platelet survivals of 2.4 and 5.2 days respectively were sharply decreased as compared to the controls and also to the mean platelet survival of 11.0 days in Group 3. Mean platelet turnovers in all three groups were either decreased or normal as compared to the control range. Platelet survival curves in Groups 1 and 2 suggested random destruction and in Group 3 a combination of random plus senescent destruction. In Groups 1 and 2 splenectomy or corti-costeroid therapy resulted in excellent haematologic remissions. In all three groups the mean fibrinogen survivals were within the control range of 6.5–9.5 days. However, one patient, in Group 2 had a substantial decrease in both platelet and fibrinogen survival, probably indicative of low-grade disseminated intravascular coagulation. A hypercoagulable state was not demonstrated in the patient with PNH. Simultaneous platelet and fibrinogen kinetics are important adjuncts to the study of the pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, therapy, and criteria for splenectomy in thrombocytopenic patients.
On the slow motion of a sphere in fluids with non-constant viscosities

We study a slowly moving sphere in fluids where the viscosity depends upon factors such as shear-rate, temperature and pressure, with the flow field approximated by the Stokes flow past a sphere. We derive an expression for the stresses generated in the fluid due to these various factors. This gives us information about both, the force imposed by the fluid upon the sphere and also the reaction force due to the sphere upon the fluid, referred to as the stress density. The values of the force and stress density are numerically computed in each of the cases and analyzed for various values of the flow and material parameters. Our computations show interesting variations in the distribution of stress density in the fluid for the various cases and also give us valuable information about the effect of walls. Our calculations also indicate that particle heating or cooling can serve as a significant control parameter since the drag force upon the sphere increases dramatically for a cold particle and can be reduced considerably upon heating it.
Electrochemical and sem characterization of Ag electrodes roughened by potential sweep and potential step processes in aqueous chloride and chloride + pyridine media

Abstract The effect of solution pH and the presence of pyridine on the redox behavior of Ag electrodes in aqueous chloride media is investigated. Scanning electron microscopy is used to evaluate differences in surface morphology of Ag electrodes subjected to electrochemical oxidation and oxidation—reduction processes in 0.1 M KCl and 0.1 M KCl + 0.05 M pyridine media at pH values of 2, 7, and 12. Potential sweep and potential step methods are used to effect the electrochemical oxidation and oxidation—reduction events. Comparisons are made between the resulting surface morphologies on the submicroscopic level for Ag surfaces roughened in these two ways. The redox chemistry of the oxidation and reduction processes is interpreted in terms of the different species capable of interacting with the Ag electrode surface and Ag+ species generated during oxidation in each medium. Surface adsorbates proposed to be important include chloride ions and pyridine. The relative importance of these species in terms of their ability to influence the redox chemistry of the Ag electrodes is seen to be a sensitive function of solution pH.
Skin disease of the newborn infant

Summary 1. A case of skin disease in an infant is presented with the clinicaland the post-mortem findings. 2. A discussion of the relation of pemphigus neonatorum, Ritter'sdisease, and Leiner's disease is presented, and consideration is given to the possible underlying causes.
Sperm Oil Replacements from Selectively Hydrogenated Soybean and Linseed Esters: Special Lubricants

Soybean and linseed oils were selectively hydroenated with copper-on-silica gel catalyst. The linolenate content of the oils was reduced to diene and monoene with no appreciable increase in saturates. Hydrogenated soybean oils contained 68–76% monoene, 11–18% diene, 0% conjugated diene and triene, 1–6% conjugatable diene, 0–0.3% conjugatable triene, and 23–40% isolatedtrans double bonds. Hydrogenated linseed oils contained 44–54% monoene, 35–45% diene, 0% conjugated diene and triene, 0–7% conjugatable diene, 0–02% conjugatable triene, and 44–59% isoaltedtrans double bonds. Esters of fatty acids, derived from these selectively hydrogenated oils, were prepared with trimethylolethane, trimethylolpropane, trimethylolbutane, pentaerythritol, ethylene glycol, C18 saturated cyclic alcohols, primary C12–C18 saturated (nC12, nC14, nC16, nC18) alcohol, and primary C16–C18 saturated (nC16, nC18) alcohol blends. Measurements of viscosities and of smoke, flash, and fire points indicate that these esters are possible replacements for sperm oil. Certain of them, after sulfurization, also have potential as extreme pressure lubricant additives.
Evaluation of onion germplasm for resistance to iris yellow spot (Iris Yellow Spot Virus) and onion thrips, Thrips tabaci

Abstract. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is the most economically important monocot besides grasses. The crop suffers severe damage from onion thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman, a cosmopolitan and polyphagous insect pest. In addition to causing direct feeding damage, onion thrips is the principal vector of the economically important Iris yellow spot virus (Tospovirus sp., family Bunyaviridae). Any attempt to manage this pathosystem will require a multifaceted approach based on integrated pest management. Host plant resistance is an important foundation to the success of such approaches. A multi-state, multi-disciplinary research project was established to identify, validate, and deliver resistance to this pathosystem for use by the onion industry. As part of the project, diverse onion plant introduction (PI) accessions from the USDA germplasm collection, advanced breeding lines, and commercial cultivars were evaluated from 2009 through 2011 in fields in Colorado. Sixteen, 15, and 10 better performing onion genotypes...
Association of asthma symptoms and severity with indoor bioaerosols.

Background: In this study, repeated measurements were made of levels of mold spores, bacteria, and dust-mite allergens over a 7-month period in the homes of asthmatics, and relationships with measures of asthma severity were evaluated. Methods: A sample of 57 asthmatic individuals, living in 44 homes in East Moline, Illinois, and nearby communities, participated in a panel study. The homes were visited up to nine times during the study to collect air and dust samples. Asthma severity indicators were derived from questionnaire data and from the daily health records from the panel study. Associations between indoor levels of mold spores, bacteria, and dust-mite allergens were tested with several asthma severity indicators. Results: There was evidence of associations between all asthma severity measures and levels of total and Gram-negative bacteria, but mold-spore abundance was associated only with emergency room (ER) visits for asthma. No significant associations were found with house-dust-mite allergen and any of the asthma severity indicators, but the levels of dust-mite allergen were low, with median concentrations of 0.18 µg/g dust Der f 1 and 0.19 µg/g dust Der p 1. Conclusions: Some evidence was found for associations of increased concentrations of Gram-negative bacteria and mold spores with asthma severity, particularly with ER visits. No association was found between house-dust-mite allergen and asthma severity indicators; however, the mite-allergen levels in the study homes were generally well below the proposed threshold level of 2 µg/g dust.
Esthetic results with full restorations

The metal-ceramic and all-ceramic esthetic restorations available today bear little resemblance to their predecessors of 2 and 3 decades ago. Metal-ceramic crowns and fixed partial dentures are successful when the dentist understands what biologic and mechanical demands will be placed on the restoration. Tissue management and tooth preparation affect long-term function and esthetic success.
A Bidirectional Wireless Link for Neural Prostheses that Minimizes Implanted Power Consumption

We describe a bidirectional impedance-modulation wireless data link for implanted neural prostheses. The link uses near-field inductive coupling between the implanted system and an external transceiver. It is designed to minimize power consumption in the implanted system and support high data rates in the uplink direction (from the implanted to the external system). Experimental results demonstrate data transfer rates up to 5.8 Mbps in the uplink direction and 300 kbps in the downlink direction at a link distance of 2 cm. The link dissipates 100 muW in the implanted system and 2.5 mW in the external system, making it among the most power-efficient inductive data links reported.
Bullous pemphigoid antigens: extraction and degradation of antigens during epidermal preparation.

Although two groups of bullous pemphigoid antigens have been well characterized, different research groups have shown strikingly different prevalence rates of antibodies to these antigens in their patients. Potential explanations for this phenomena include a patient population that has different prevalence of antibodies, or that the antigen preparations used by the different groups contain different relative amounts of these antigens. We have compared the relative concentration of the different bullous pemphigoid antigens in epidermal extract preparations made by three different procedures commonly used to separate dermis from epidermis: NaCl, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and heat. We have found that the amount of the 180-kD antigen present in extracts is dependent on the techniques involved in separation of the epidermis from dermis. NaCl-and EDTA-separation procedures result in partial proteolysis of the 180- kD antigen to smaller forms, including major brands at 160 kD and 97 kD in the EDTA preparation. Fragments of the 180-kD antigen are present in both the separation and wash fluids, associated with a significant reduction of the 180-kD form in the extract of the NaCl-separated skin. We conclude that the native molecular weight of the previously described minor bullous pemphigoid antigen is 180 kD, and that the apparent difference in patient reaction to the 180-kD antigen may be due to different preparations of the antigen rather than underlying differences in seropositivity in the patient population.
Pierre Cazenave and the first detailed modern descriptionof lupus erythematosus

Abstract Objectives: To provide an English translation of the first detailed description of lupus erythematosus along with a reproduction of the first color illustration of the disorder, as well as an interpretive analysis. Methods: Review of primary and secondary historical sources. Results: Although lupus as we know it was first mentioned in medieval times, the first, extensive, accurate classification and description of the condition represented an evolution of Pierre Cazenave's thinking over his 60-year professional career. Conclusions: Given his complete lack of effective diagnostic tools, Dr Cazenavedemonstrated tremendous intuitive powers of deduction in shaping our understanding of the disorder.
Provincialism in Permian Faunas and Its Application to Paleoclimatic Evolutionary Biostratigraphic Studies: ABSTRACT

The faunal assemblages characteristic of the Boreal and Tethyan faunal provinces of the Permian can be identified objectively by cluster analysis. The Boreal assemblage at high taxonomic levels consists predominantly of cosmopolitan elements and includes few endemic forms. The Tethyan assemblage includes the cosmopolitan forms and a large group of endemics. Temperature sensitivity characterizes the endemic Tethyan forms, whereas the cosmopolitan types are relatively free of temperature control. Among brachiopod families, the ratio of cosmopolitan families found to the total number provides an excellent index of sampling efficiency at a reconnaissance level. The ratio: total number of brachiopod families minus number of cosmopolitan families found, divided by the number of cosmopolitan families found, provides a measure that is both temperature sensitive and self-normalizing for sampling efficiency. Thus, it can be used to reconstruct the Permian planetary temperature gradient. The available data suggest little or no N-S movement of continents, but E-W motion is not precluded. Permian and recent data show that evolution as seen at generic and higher levels proceeds more rapidly in warm than in cold regions. This phenomenon inevitably provides for the highest biostratigraphic resolution in E-W correlations within the warm water region and for lower resolution in E-W correlations within the Boreal province and in N-S correlations between the Boreal and Tethyan provinces which must both depend on the slowly evolving cosmopolitan forms. Examination of well-controlled recent data suggests that correlations based on first occurrences of genera transgressed time where followed across temperature gradients. If this has been a general condition throughout geologic ti e, "biostratigraphic time planes" are inherently time transgressive across latitude gradients. End_of_Article - Last_Page 2507------------
Psychometric properties of four anxiety measures in older adults

Abstract Despite relatively high prevalence rates of anxiety disorders in older adults, little attention has been paid to the establishment of psychometrically sound measures for this population. The current study addresses this issue by examining the psychometric properties of four self-report anxiety measures: the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Worry Scale (WS), Fear Questionnaire (FQ), and Padua Inventory (PI). Two older adult community subsamples were assessed, one with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD; n = 50) and the other with no anxiety complaints (Normal Controls: NC; n = 94). Descriptive data revealed that mean scores in the GAD sample were similar to those reported in studies of younger GAD patients. Mean scores in the NC sample, however, were lower than those reported in studies of younger control samples. Internal consistency for all measures generally was adequate in both the GAD and NC subsamples, although alpha coefficients for two of the FQ subscales were marginal. Test-retest reliability over a 2–4 week interval (assessed in a subgroup of NC subjects) was mixed, with some measures apparently assessing stable, trait-like dimensions of fear and anxiety, and others estimating more state-like clinical features. Intercorrelations among subscales for all four measures in both the GAD and NC groups generally were high and consistent with findings from prior research. Finally, some support for the convergent validity of the four anxiety measures was obtained, particularly in the NC sample. Results are discussed in terms of the utility of these instruments for future investigations of the psychopathology and treatment of anxiety disorders in the elderly.
Neurocognitive effects of ketamine in treatment-resistant major depression: association with antidepressant response

The N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptor antagonist ketamine has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Despite the promise of a novel and urgently needed treatment for refractory depression, concerns regarding potential adverse neurocognitive effects of ketamine remain. Although extensive research has been conducted in healthy volunteers, there is a paucity of studies examining the neurocognitive effects of ketamine in depressed patients. Therefore, the aims of the current study were to characterize the relationship between baseline neurocognition and antidepressant response to ketamine, measure the acute impact of ketamine on neurocognition, and investigate the relationship between acute neurocognitive effects of ketamine and antidepressant response. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed in 25 patients with TRD using a comprehensive battery: estimated premorbid intelligence quotient (IQ), current IQ, and tests from the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB). A subset of the MCCB was repeated immediately following a 40-min intravenous infusion of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg). Patients who responded to ketamine 24 h following treatment had poorer baseline neurocognitive performance relative to nonresponders and, in particular, slower processing speed (F = 8.42; df = 23; p = 0.008). Ketamine was associated with selective impairments in memory recall, and the degree of cognitive change carried negative prognostic significance (e.g., negative cognitive effects immediately after ketamine predicted lower response rate at 24 h; Fisher's exact test two-sided p = 0.027). Taken together, our findings suggest a potential baseline neurocognitive predictor of ketamine response and an inverse relationship between the cognitive effects of ketamine and antidepressant efficacy.
Preparation and wear resistance of pulse electrodeposited Ni–W/Al2O3 composite coatings

Abstract The aim of this work is to obtain the electroplating parameters for preparation of Ni–W/Al2O3 composite coating with high tungsten content, high micro-hardness and excellent wear resistance by pulse plating procedure. Our results showed that the duty cycle is a dominant parameter for the tungsten content in the coating and the tungsten content increases significantly with increasing duty cycle. The further analysis showed the great influence of tungsten content on micro-hardness of the coating. A maximum micro-hardness of about 859 Hv was obtained in pulse electrodeposited Ni–W/Al2O3 composite with tungsten content of 40 wt.% at a peak current density of 20 A/dm2, a duty cycle of 80%, a pulse frequency of 1000 Hz and a particle loading of 10 g/L alumina in the plating bath. Although the hardness of Ni–W/Al2O3 composite coating was only slightly affected by the alumina content of the deposits prepared in present investigation, the alumina content effect on the tribological characteristic of Ni–W/Al2O3 composite coatings is significant. The friction coefficient was lowered to 0.25 and the wear loss was reduced to 1.05 mg by setting the control factors according to the values mentioned above for obtaining the coating with the highest micro-hardness.
Fostering resilience in IT: a resource toolkit for faculty

The Fostering Resilience in IT tutorial is a hands-on training session for faculty interested in incorporating soft skills training in IT-related courses. Soft skills include such abilities as controlling and using one's emotions (emotional intelligence), dealing with team issues and stress (coping strategies) and talking the language of business. These skills are increasingly recognized as key to success in IT-related disciplines [1, 5].
Atomic parity violation and precision electroweak physics: An Updated analysis

A new analysis of parity violation in atomic cesium has led to an improved value of the weak charge, ${Q}_{W}(\mathrm{Cs})=\ensuremath{-}72.06\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.46.$ The implications of this result for constraining the Peskin-Takeuchi parameters S and T and for guiding searches for new Z bosons are discussed.
Structure-guided design and biosynthesis of a novel FR-900098 analogue as a potent Plasmodium falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase (Dxr) inhibitor

We report here the enzymatic biosynthesis of FR-900098 analogues and establish an in vivo platform for the biosynthesis of an N-propionyl derivative FR-900098P. FR-900098P is found to be a significantly more potent inhibitor of Plasmodium falciparum 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (PfDxr) than the parent compound, and thus a more promising antimalarial drug candidate.
Stimulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone surges by estrogen. II. Role of cyclic adenosine 3'5'-monophosphate.

Release of GnRH surges in female rats is directed by a daily neural signal and occurs only after exposure of the hypothalamus to sustained, elevated estrogen (E2) levels in serum. We have proposed that preovulatory E2 couples the daily neural signal to the circuitry governing GnRH release by a two-step process, which includes stimulation of neuronal progesterone receptors (PRs) by E2 and subsequent activation of PRs by the daily neural signal. In the preceding report we documented that PR activation is obligatory for the stimulation of GnRH surges by E2. In these studies we assess the validity of a second essential feature of this model, that neural signals can activate PRs and thereby prompt the release of GnRH and LH surges. Our efforts specifically focused on the role of cAMP in mediating neural PR trans-activation leading to GnRH surges. To assess whether cAMP may function as a daily neural signal, cAMP levels were examined via a competitive binding assay in anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV...
Void development on carbonate coasts: creation of anchialine habitats

Anchialine caves in coastal locations develop in two ways: by pseudokarst processes that form talus caves, sea caves, tafoni, fissure caves and lava tubes, and by karst dissolutional processes that form stream caves, flank margin caves, and blue holes. Pseudokarst caves are of minor importance in anchialine cave habitat development, with some lava tubes being notable exceptions. Dissolution caves provide the most extensive, variable, and long-term environments for anchialine habitats. The Carbonate Island Karst Model (CIKM) allows dissolutional cave development in carbonate coasts to be understood as the interplay between freshwater and marine water mixing, sea-level change, rock maturity, and interaction with adjacent non-carbonate rocks. Glacioeustatic sea-level changes of the Quaternary have moved all coastal anchialine cave environments repeatedly through a vertical range of over 100 m, and modern anchialine environments could not develop at their current elevations until ~4,000 years ago when sea level reached its present position. Blue holes form by a variety of mechanisms, but the most common is upward stoping and collapse from deep dissolutional voids. As a result, they provide vertical connection between different levels of horizontal cave development produced by a variety of earlier sea-level positions. Blue holes are overprinted by successive sea-level fluctuations; each sea-level event adds complexity to the habitats within blue holes and the cave systems they connect. Blue holes can reach depths below the deepest glacioeustatic sea-level lowstand, and thereby provide a refugia for anchialine species when cave passages above are drained by Quaternary sea-level fall. Blue holes represent the most significant anchialine cave environment in the world, and may provide clues to anchialine cave species colonization and speciation events.
The calorimetric glass transition. A simple model

Abstract The approximate discontinuity, ΔC, in the dynamic specific heat of glasses at the calorimetric glass-transition temperature. Tg, is calculated from first principles. The existence of a ‘glass transition’ is a result of the strong temperature dependence of the α-relaxation peaks, as argued by Goetze. The experimental frequency is related to the temperature sweep rate, dT/dt, and compared with the frequency of the α-peak, Ωc, and a general self-consistent equation for T σ is given. The proportionality of ωc and the d.c. conductivity is a fundamental consequence of percolation theory, and is independent of the Coulomb interaction, as this proportionality is observed even in those glasses where interactions can be neglected. An analytical calculation of the jump, ΔC in the dynamic heat capacity in the so-called Fermi (electronic) glass is given and is by analogy extended to traditional glasses. Since the relaxation structure in supercooled liquids is identical to that of glasses, it is suggested that...
Effector binding sites in plasma amine oxidase

Abstract The interaction between plasma amine oxidase (EC 1.4.3.6) and chlorpromazine was studied by spectroscopic methods. The binding of chlorpromazine to the enzyme is paralleled by an increase in the emission anisotropy of the ligand. Titration of the enzyme with chlorpromazine using fluorescence methods revealed the presence of an heterogeneous population of binding sites characterized by the dissociation constants K 1 = 7.4 μ M and K 2 = 35 μ M . A kinetic analysis showed that a change in V and K m is induced by chlorpromazine. The increase in V (5.7 fold) is significant and cannot be attributed to modifications in the chemical structure of the effector chlorpromazine. The results are consistent with the concept that the binding of the effector induces a change in the conformation of the enzyme which is transmitted to the catalytic site.
Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for β-endorphin and its antibodies

A sensitive method for quantitation of beta-endorphin in biological fluids and tissues using ELISA methodology has been developed. This assay is sensitive to as low as 30 picograms of beta-endorphin per measurement and can be carried out in approximately 5 hours. The determination of antibody titer levels to beta-endorphin can also be quantitated using a modified double sandwich ELISA.
Selectivity and Mechanism of Action of a Growth Factor Receptor- Bound Protein 2 Src Homology 2 Domain Binding Antagonist

We have shown previously that a potent synthetic antagonist of Grb2 SH2 domain binding (1) blocks growth factor stimulated motility, invasion, and angiogenesis in cultured cell models, as well as tumor metastasis in animals. To characterize the selectivity of 1 for the SH2 domain of Grb2 over other proteins containing similar structural binding motifs, we synthesized a biotinylated derivative (3) that retained high affinity Grb2 SH2 domain binding and potent biological activity. To investigate the selectivity of 1 and 3 for Grb2, the biotinylated antagonist 3 was used to immobilize target proteins from cell extracts for subsequent identification by mass spectrometry. Non-specific binding was identified in parallel using a biotinylated analog that lacked a single critical binding determinant. The mechanism of action of the antagonist was further characterized by immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting and light microscopy. This approach to defining protein binding antagonist selectivity and molecular basis of action should be widely applicable in drug development.
Leading adaptive organizational change: self‐reflexivity and self‐transformation

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to give an account of a self‐evaluation process in a change programme within the US Coast Guard.Design/methodology/approach – This is an autoethnographical account as form of reflection on a leadership in position facilitating change within the organization.Findings – Adaptive organizational change is a human endeavor, not a scientific application of techniques and skills.Research limitations/implications – The authoethnography points mainly only to a change process of the writer and is therefore hardly an abstract model for others.Practical implications – Meaningful organizational transformation does not occur without a corresponding self‐transformation, most importantly of the individual leading the change.Originality/value – Changing oneself by managing change process as a leader, one has to become the change process in order to be successful.
Not the Sum of Its Parts: Decomposing Implicit Academic Stereotypes to Understand Sense of Fit in Math and English

Stereotypes about gender differences in math and English ability are pervasive. The current research decomposes math and English stereotypes in order to examine the relationship between the four independent components of these stereotypes (i.e., the stereotypic men-math association, the counter stereotypic men-English association, the counter stereotypic women-math association, and the stereotypic women-English association) and students' sense of fit in math and English. 371 undergraduate men and women from a private university located in the Southern United States participated in the current study. Participants completed the Go/No-Go Association Task (GNAT) to assess the independent stereotype components, followed by composite measures of sense of fit in math and English. For women, the women-math association and the women-English association (i.e., ingroup components of stereotypes), and not the men-math and men-English associations (i.e., outgroup components of stereotypes), predicted sense of fit in math and English. For men, only the men-math association predicted sense of fit in English. We discuss the implications of these findings for interventions aimed at improving students' sense of academic fit.
1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3-3β-(2)-bromoacetate, an affinity labeling derivative of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 displays strong antiproliferative and cytotoxic behavior in prostate cancer cells

In this report we describe that 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE, a VDR-affinity labeling analog of 1,25(OH)2D3, showed strong and dose-dependent growth-inhibitory effect in several epithelial cells, i.e., keratinocytes (primary cells), MCF-7 breast cancer, PC-3, and LNCaP prostate cancer and PZ-HPV-7 immortalized normal prostate cell-lines. Furthermore, 10−6 M of 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE induced apoptosis specifically in LNCaP and PC-3 cells; and the effect was much less pronounced at lower doses. We also showed that the effect (of 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE) was not due to probable degradation (hydrolysis) of 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE or random interaction of this molecule with cellular proteins. Tissue- or cell-specific action of 1,25(OH)2D3 and its mimics is not common due to the ubiquitous nature of VDR. Furthermore, variable effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 and its analogs in various cell-lines potentially limits their application as anticancer agents. We showed that 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE displayed similar growth-inhibitory and cytotoxic activities towards androgen sensitive LNCaP and androgen-independent PC-3 cell-lines. Therefore, these results raise the possibility that 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE or similar VDR-cross linking analogs of 1,25(OH)2D3 might be considered for further development as potential candidates for prostate cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 89: 909–916, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Comparison of Bias Correction Adjustments for the DETECT Procedure

DETECT is a nonparametric methodology to identify the dimensional structure underlying test data. The associated DETECT index, Dmax, denotes the degree of multidimensionality in data. Conditional covariances (CCOV) are the building blocks of this index. In specifying population CCOVs, the latent test composite θTT is used as the conditional variable. In estimating the CCOVs, the total test score of all items in the test (T) or the rest score of remaining items (S) are generally used as estimates of the latent composite θTT . However, estimated CCOVs are biased when using T or S as a proxy for θTT. Some type of correction is needed to adjust this bias. This study was an investigation of different ways to estimate the DETECT index based on the conditional scores T and S, and additional bias adjustments, resulting in six different estimates, D1 through D6. These six indices were investigated in simulated settings, varying the test length, sample size, and the degree of multidimensionality (108 in all). The r...
Mechanistic studies of platinum(II)-catalyzed ethylene dimerization: determination of barriers to migratory insertion in diimine Pt(II) hydrido ethylene and ethyl ethylene intermediates.

The diimine platinum(II) ethylene hydride complex [(N∧N)Pt(H)(ethylene)][BAr‘4] (1, N∧N = [(2,6-Me2C6H3)NC(An)−C(An)N(2,6-Me2C6H3)], An = 1,8-naphthalenediyl, Ar‘ = 3,5-(CF3)2C6H3) was prepared by protonation of the diethyl complex (N∧N)PtEt2 with [H(OEt2)2][BAr‘4]. The energy barrier to interchange of the platinum hydride with the olefinic hydrogens in 1 was determined to be 19.2 kcal/mol by spin saturation transfer experiments. Complex 1 initiates ethylene dimerization; the ethyl ethylene complex (N∧N)Pt(Et)(ethylene)+ (2) has been identified as the catalyst resting state. Trapping of 1 by ethylene to yield 2 is a second-order process; kinetic studies suggest this occurs via trapping of a reversibly formed β-agostic ethyl complex. Complex 2 has been isolated and characterized by X-ray crystallography. The barrier to migratory insertion of 2, the turnover-limiting step in catalysis, was determined to be 29.8 kcal/mol. The 1-butene hydride complex, (N∧N)Pt(H)(1-butene)+ (3), is a key intermediate in the d...
Regional-scale drought increases potential soil fertility in semiarid grasslands

Although drying of soil has increased fertility in laboratory-based experiments, a direct link between longer-scale weather conditions associated with drought and soil fertility has not been documented at the field scale. Soil from a semiarid grassland on the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) that was collected over a 10-year period had the highest levels of potentially mineralizable nitrogen (PMN, a measure of potential soil fertility) during drought periods in 1989 and 1995. Whereas previous soil collections on the Sevilleta NWR were made for different reasons, soils were collected in June 2002 near the peak of a regional-scale drought to test the hypothesis that potential soil fertility increased with drought. Another semiarid grassland site, the Bernalillo Watershed, was sampled to extend the spatial extent of the analysis. The 2002 collections showed soil PMN near the highest at both sites, thereby supporting the hypothesis. Longer-term PMN data at both sites were correlated with the Palmer Drought Index (PDI), a regional-scale index with drier periods given negative values. Over a 13-year period, the Sevilleta soils had higher PMN during periods of drought (r =−0.533, P <0.05). Although not significant, a similar trend was shown over an 8-year record at the Bernalillo Watershed (r =−0.356, not significant). Also, PMN levels measured during a previous 3-year wet-to-drought period at another semiarid grassland site on the Sevilleta NWR were highly significantly correlated with the PDI (r =−0.723, P <0.01). Thus, drought can increase soil fertility, which can alter additional ecosystem processes.
Wind field measurements for the mitigation of airborne health threats in a complex urban environment

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sponsored Urban Dispersion Program (UDP) resulted in the strategic placement of weather instruments in New York City (NYC) and the transition of some instruments to the City College of New York (CCNY) operated NYC MetNet to provide timely and accurate information on "skimming field" winds above city building tops. In order to extend the observational capabilities of the NYC MetNet, a cost effective portable eye safe fiber optic based coherent wind lidar system is currently under development in CCNY laboratories. Wind lidar measurements, coupled with the continuous observations from the NYC MetNet, should support the initialization, feedback and development of plume models that would be used after an initial detection of airborne toxins. An overview of the lidar system design and the NYC MetNet will be given.