cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Yeast Nbp35-Cfd1 Cytosolic Iron-Sulfur Cluster Scaffold Is an ATPase.

Nbp35 and Cfd1 are prototypical members of the MRP/Nbp35 class of iron-sulfur (FeS) cluster scaffolds that function to assemble nascent FeS clusters for transfer to FeS-requiring enzymes. Both proteins contain a conserved NTPase domain that genetic studies have demonstrated is essential for their cluster assembly activity inside the cell. It was recently reported that these proteins possess no or very low nucleotide hydrolysis activity in vitro, and thus the role of the NTPase domain in cluster biogenesis has remained uncertain. We have reexamined the NTPase activity of Nbp35, Cfd1, and their complex. Using in vitro assays and site-directed mutagenesis, we demonstrate that the Nbp35 homodimer and the Nbp35-Cfd1 heterodimer are ATPases, whereas the Cfd1 homodimer exhibited no or very low ATPase activity. We ruled out the possibility that the observed ATP hydrolysis activity might result from a contaminating ATPase by showing that mutation of key active site residues reduced activity to background levels. Finally, we demonstrate that the fluorescent ATP analog 2′/3′-O-(N′-methylanthraniloyl)-ATP (mantATP) binds stoichiometrically to Nbp35 with a KD = 15.6 μm and that an Nbp35 mutant deficient in ATP hydrolysis activity also displays an increased KD for mantATP. Together, our results demonstrate that the cytosolic iron-sulfur cluster assembly scaffold is an ATPase and pave the way for interrogating the role of nucleotide hydrolysis in cluster biogenesis by this large family of cluster scaffolding proteins found across all domains of life.
Photon-Emitting Microorganisms as Test Objects for Detecting Genotoxic Agents

Short-term tests with microorganisms provide a technically simple, rapid and inexpensive approach to detecting environmental agents that damage DNA (1). In the most widely used microbial bioassay, specially constructed histidine auxotrophs of Salmonella typhimurium are incubated with the chemical to be tested. Mammalian tissue homogenates are included to metabolize promutagens to their active form. The number of revertant colonies that develop on petri plates after an incubation period of two days serves as a measure of mutagenicity (2).
Bone marrow transplantation for leukemia following a new busulfan and cyclophosphamide regimen

Busulfan 16 mg/kg and cyclophosphamide 120 mg/kg were used as conditioning prior to allogeneic marrow transplantation in 50 adult patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). A standard risk group of 20 patients included those with acute leukemia in remission and CML in chronic phase. A high-risk group of 30 patients included individuals with refractory acute leukemia, acute leukemia in relapse, acute leukemia following preleukemia, and CML in accelerated and blastic phase. Complete remission and sustained complete engraftment were achieved in all evaluable patients. The duration of aplasia was remarkably short (median of 8 days), resulting in a low infection rate during the period of neutropenia, a reduced need for blood product support, and a short length of hospital stay. Three-year actuarial relapse-free survival in both standard-risk (88.9% +/- 10.5%) and high-risk (50.5% +/- 9.6%) groups compares favorably with that reported with total body irradiation (TBI) containing regimens.
Justified and Common Knowledge: Limited Conservativity

We consider the relative strengths of three formal approaches to public knowledge: "any fool" knowledge by McCarthy (1970), Common Knowledge by Halpern and Moses (1990), and Justified Knowledge by Artemov (2004). Specifically, we show that epistemic systems with the Common Knowledge modality Care conservative with respect to Justified Knowledge systems on formulas ?? Cφ??, where ?, φ, and ?are C-free.
The political economy of Russian higher education: why does Putin support research universities?

This article argues that Vladimir Putin's regime launched support programs for the leading Russian universities in 2005 because of a perceived threat of the political mobilization of youth, similar to the one that triggered “color revolutions” in Serbia, Georgia, and Ukraine. The support programs created cleavages in the university community, covered an attack on university autonomy, and made the containment of possible anti-regime student mobilization a part of an implicit agreement between the regime and the universities. The historical coincidence of the “demographic hole,” which caused a shrinkage of the higher education market, and high oil prices, which provided the necessary resources for the regime, made this implicit agreement possible. The article contributes to the research on authoritarianism, youth mobilization, authoritarian backlash after the color revolutions, and the development of research universities in Russia.
Simulation modelling for sustainability: a review of the literature

AbstractThis article is a review of work published in various journals and conference proceedings on the topics of Simulation Modelling for Sustainability between January 2000 and May 2015. A total of 192 papers are reviewed. The article intends to serve three goals. First, it will be useful to researchers who wish to know what kinds of questions have been raised and how they have been addressed in the areas of simulation modelling for sustainability. Second, the article will be a useful resource for searching research topics. Third, it will serve as a comprehensive bibliography of the papers published during the period. The literature is analysed for application areas, simulation methods and dimensions of the triple bottom line model of sustainable development.
Expanding D&I science capacity and activity within NIH Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Programs: guidance and successful models from national leaders

The NIH CTSA program (Clinical and Translational Science Awards) supports over 60 research centers working to accelerate scientific discovery, development and implementation to improve health. The CTSA initiative was launched in 2006 to accelerate progress along the research pipeline by overcoming the "translational roadblocks" identified by the Institute of Medicine's Clinical Research Roundtable (CRR)-and discussed in numerous additional reports published in the U.S. and internationally. Although the CRR and its international counterparts identified two broad categories of roadblocks, the first impeding the translation of basic science discoveries into effective clinical and public health interventions and the second impeding appropriate implementation-in-practice and societal benefits of these interventions, to date most CTSA activity has focused largely on the first translational roadblock. The presentations included in this panel represent national leaders in the establishment of effective programs to support and expand CTSA activity related to the second translational roadblock, barriers to effective dissemination, implementation and achievement of population health benefit of NIH-funded research. The presentations describe the components, activities and impacts of CTSA-based D&I science programs established at the University of California at San Francisco, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Washington University at St. Louis. The panel will also describe the ongoing development of a new program at the University of California at Los Angeles (guided by the three programs featured in the panel) and will feature comments by key national research leaders addressing the value and role of these national leaders in stimulating and guiding similar efforts across other CTSAs and similar research institutions.
A unique real-time speech decoder that operates from new perspectives

Four new techniques for real-time speech decoding have been combined to decode speech without training the device and to give speaker-independent segmentation and phoneme-like decoding. The first technique is a new time-domain process which detects the mouth resonance with high accuracy. The second process compensates for mouth-size and pitch fluctuations. The third technique provides vowel-like segmentation and consonant-like classification. Because of the combined power of these algorithms, a fourth technique can be used to form a table look-up of real-time analog and digital orthography of speech under non-ideal conditions. This system appears to be immune to co-articulation difficulties. Actual performance results are given.
It is not as simple as “I will put you to sleep”: A neurological perspective on sedation

El editorial presentado en esta revista por el Dr. Ramsay, «El costo biologico de la depresion de conciencia», hace una llamada a tener presentes las posibles consecuencias deletereas de la alteracion del estado de conciencia (sedacion), en particular, en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI). Considero que se deberia tener en cuenta, por ejemplo la significativa relacion bidireccional entre los trastornos del sueno y la enfermedad de Alzheimer (EA), que se han documentado durante mas de una decada. Las alteraciones del sueno son indicadores tempranos de demencia y pueden ocurrir antes que los sintomas cognitivos1. En la EA hay basicamente 2 procesos patologicos: uno relacionado con el procesamiento bioquimico anormal de una proteina transmembrana, llamada proteina precursora amiloidea, de tal manera que se produce, entre otros, un peptido toxico —conocido como beta-amiloide 42 (As42)— que se acumula y forma placas extracelulares en el cerebro; el segundo se refiere a la enfermedad de la proteina tau, una proteina asociada a los microtubulos, la cual se hiperfosforila y agrega en diferentes formas en la EA. La proteina tau tambien es anormal en otras enfermedades neurodegenerativas fatales que causan demencias o trastornos del movimiento. Experimentos en roedores y estudios correlativos en humanos han demostrado que cambios cronicos en la arquitectura del sueno inducen a enfermedad amiloidea y tau2,3, es decir, un circulo vicioso fatal.
ASIC: algebra-based structural index comparison

Structural indices play a significant role in improving the efficiency of XML query evaluation. Being able to compare various structural indexing techniques is critical for a DBMS to select which indices to support, for the query optimizer to choose an index to use in query evaluation, and for DBAs to configure a database application. We present ASIC, an Algebra-based Structural Index Comparison framework that aids users in understanding the ability of different types of structural indices in answering XPath queries which have been characterized using the XPath algebra. ASIC allows users to select, configure and construct structural indices for comparison, guides users to compare the selected indices by evaluating queries of a particular XPath sub-algebra, and visually displays the index structures, query evaluation plans, and performance results for analysis and comparison.
FDA 2000-Building for the Future

In 1991, the Secretary of Health and Human Services charged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with developing a strategic plan that would: identify future directions the agency would pursue in light of environmental change, reflect the reality of an austere budgetary climate, and provide a context to guide intermediate and near-term planning and budgeting. FDA 2000-BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE is a blueprint for managing the performance of FDA's core programs and for renewing FDA's infrastructure. It guides the reinvention of FDA's regulatory programs in an era of limited resources, increasing responsibilities, and changing sources of public health risk. The strategic plan will continue to evolve as key issues, such as user fee funding, food safety policy, and import strategies, are addressed.
THE EX POST RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GROWING CONDITIONS AND OPTIMAL FERTILIZER LEVELS

This article tests whether ex post optimal nitrogen rates increase with better growing conditions. Results of the tests indicate whether there is statistical support for the rule-of-thumb that farmers should increase their ex ante fertilizer rates to ensure an adequate supply of nutrients if the growing season turns out to be favorable. In addition, the test results indicate if yield goals have a role in a system of fertilizer recommendations. Results indicate: (1) there is scant statistical support for the hypothesis that better growing conditions on a given site increase optimal nitrogen rates; and (2) better site-specific growing conditions seem to increase optimal nitrogen rates.
The effect of consumer price consciousness on private label purchase

Abstract Several reasons have been advanced to explain the remarkable success and growth of private label brands (PLBs) in Western Europe and North America. One important factor that has not been adequately highlighted is the role of consumer price consciousness and consequent consumer resistance to the prices of national brands. We develop a framework for understanding consumer price consciousness, why it varies across product categories, and how it may result in PLB purchase, and calibrate the model on category-level field data. Our findings establish that perceived category risk and perceived price unfairness of national brands in that category are significant antecedents of consumer price consciousness, and that variations in such price consciousness across categories is a significant reason why consumers buy PLBs more in some categories than in others. Additionally, we show that perceived price–quality association has a significant effect on private label purchase in risky categories.
The Genus Ophiomegistus (Acari: Paramegistidae), with Descriptions of Five New Species, a New Structure and a Key to the Species

The paramegistid genus Ophiomegistus is diagnosed and 5 new species, O. alainae, O. brennani, O. nihi, O. novaguinea and O. sarawakensis , are described from scincid lizards taken New Guinea, Java and Sarawak. The previously unknown character of a basal hyaline lobe on the fixed cheliceral digit is described. A key to the species is given.
Neutron star properties and the equation of state of neutron-rich matter

We calculate total masses and radii of neutron stars for pure neutron matter and nuclear matter in \ensuremath{\beta} equilibrium. We apply a relativistic nuclear matter equation of state derived from Dirac-Brueckner-Hartree-Fock calculations. We use realistic nucleon-nucleon interactions defined in the framework of the meson exchange potential models. Our results are compared with other theoretical predictions and recent observational data. Suggestions for further study are discussed.
A Simple Method of Producing Pulsatile Flow During Clinical Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Abstract A method using the intraaortic balloon to produce pulsatile flow during cardiopulmonary bypass is described. The technique has been employed in 26 patients, and there have been no complications.
Divisional Cost of Capital: A Study of Its Use by Major U.S. Firms

Abstract The study examines the use of divisional cost of capital by Fortune 1000 companies. Two hundred and ninety eight firms (29.8 percent) responded to the survey. While the concept of weighted average cost of capital is utilized by 85.2 percent of the respondents, less than 50 percent use divisional cost of capital. By using a single firm cut-off criterion for all projects, there is the potential for intrafirm misallocation of capital since projects initiated by high risk divisions are more likely to be accepted because of high returns. Lower return divisions with less risk may be starved for capital when only a single weighted average cost of capital is used. The author also suggests some normative approaches to solve the problem.
COMPARATIVE RESPONSES TO ENDOTHELIN-2 AND SARAFOTOXIN 6B IN THE PULMONARY VASCULAR BED OF THE CAT

Pulmonary vascular responses to endothelin-2 and sarafotoxin 6b were investigated in the feline pulmonary vascular bed under natural flow and constant flow conditions. Injections of endothelin-2 and sarafotoxin 6b in a dose of 0.3 nmol/kg iv increased pulmonary arterial and left atrial pressures and cardiac output, and caused a biphasic change in calculated pulmonary vascular resistance. Endothelin-2 caused a biphasic change in systemic arterial pressure, while sarafotoxin 6b only decreased arterial pressure. Under constant flow conditions in the intact-chest cat, injections of endothelin-2 and sarafotoxin 6b in doses of 0.1-1 nmol into the perfused lobar artery increased lobar arterial pressure in a dose-related manner but were less potent than the thromboxane A2 mimic, U46619. An ET analog with only the Cys1-Cys15 disulfide bond and an amidated carboxy terminus had no significant activity in the pulmonary vascular bed. The present data show that endothelin-2 and sarafotoxin 6b have significant vasoconstrictor activity in the pulmonary vascular bed of the cat.
Revision of the South American wasp genus Aelurus (Hymenoptera: Tiphiidae: Thynninae)

. The relationships among the thirteen South American species of Aelurus are discussed, and nine new species are described. New synonymy is given for gayi (Spinola), clypeatus Klug and nigrofasciatus (Smith).
Neutrophil activation in smokers

Smoking and elevated leukocyte counts are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Experimental studies suggest that leukocyte activation may be a requirement for certain cardiovascular complications. Clinical studies have demonstrated activated leukocytes in the peripheral blood of stroke victims. Accordingly, neutrophil activation in unseparated whole blood of smokers as well as naive neutrophils of non-smokers exposed to plasma of smokers was investigated. Both spontaneous superoxide formation as determined by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction, as well as pseudopod formation, are significantly elevated in autologous neutrophils of smokers. The surface expression of CD18 and L-selectin on autologous circulating neutrophils of smokers is not significantly different from non-smoker controls. In contrast, incubation of naive neutrophils with smoker plasma leads to significantly higher levels of superoxide formation, pseudopod formation, and L-selectin shedding, compared with non-smoker plasma, suggesting that the plasma of smokers contains a transferable factor which causes leukocyte activation. The results indicate that analysis of blood samples from large peripheral veins may not accurately reflect leukocyte activation in the circulation since activated leukocytes have a higher probability to be trapped in the microcirculation.
RtsA and RtsB Coordinately Regulate Expression of the Invasion and Flagellar Genes in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium encounters numerous host environments and defense mechanisms during the infection process. The bacterium responds by tightly regulating the expression of virulence genes. We identified two regulatory proteins, termed RtsA and RtsB, which are encoded in an operon located on an island integrated at tRNA(PheU) in S. enterica serovar Typhimurium. RtsA belongs to the AraC/XylS family of regulators, and RtsB is a helix-turn-helix DNA binding protein. In a random screen, we identified five RtsA-regulated fusions, all belonging to the Salmonella pathogenicity island 1 (SPI1) regulon, which encodes a type III secretion system (TTSS) required for invasion of epithelial cells. We show that RtsA increases expression of the invasion genes by inducing hilA expression. RtsA also induces expression of hilD, hilC, and the invF operon. However, induction of hilA is independent of HilC and HilD and is mediated by direct binding of RtsA to the hilA promoter. The phenotype of an rtsA null mutation is similar to the phenotype of a hilC mutation, both of which decrease expression of SPI1 genes approximately twofold. We also show that RtsA can induce expression of a SPI1 TTSS effector, slrP, independent of any SPI1 regulatory protein. RtsB represses expression of the flagellar genes by binding to the flhDC promoter region. Repression of the positive activators flhDC decreases expression of the entire flagellar regulon. We propose that RtsA and RtsB coordinate induction of invasion and repression of motility in the small intestine.
Female tokens in high-prestige work groups: Catalysts or inhibitors of group diversification?

Abstract There is a popular theory-based assumption that women, who are numerical minorities in high-prestige work groups, will advocate for other women as potential work group peers. However, these individuals may face special challenges in fulfilling this role. I examine how the prestige accorded to the work group and their numerical representation interact to impact women’s concerns about being considered valued members of their groups and hence, their propensity to support other women in the selection process. I conducted three studies which showed that women will abdicate the opportunity to support highly or moderately qualified female candidates as potential work group peers. Furthermore, the concern that a highly qualified female candidate will be seen as more of a valued group member (competitive threat) and that a moderately qualified female candidate will adversely affect their value by reinforcing negative stereotypes about their demographic category (collective threat) partially mediated the relationship between numerical representation and work group prestige and women’s preference for other women as work group peers.
Protective action of zinc against pyrrolizidine alkaloid-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

The influence of Zn on the acute hepatotoxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) was determined in male rats. Zinc, 72 μmol/kg as ZnCI 2 , was administered ip for 3 consecutive days, followed 16 h after the last dose by a single ip injection of purified mixed PAs (80, 120, or 160 mg/kg) obtained from tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea). Hepatotoxicity of the PAs was assessed by measuring the activities of plasma glutamic‐oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic‐pyruvic transaminase (GPT) and by histological examination of the liver. There was a dose‐dependent increase in plasma GOT and GPT 24 h after PA administration, whereas no significant increase of these enzymes was seen after administering Zn alone. The 7‐fold increase in plasma GOT and 12‐fold increase in GPT after PA (120 mg/kg) were reduced to 2.4‐ and 2.1‐fold, respectively, by Zn pretreatment. The PA‐induced liver necrosis was either reudced in severity or abolished by Zn when the PA dose was 80 or 120 mg/kg. These results suggest a protective ...
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic study of the interaction of xanthate with coal pyrite and mineral pyrite surfaces

Abstract Coal pyrite and mineral pyrite surfaces were examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) before and after treatment in acidic and basic solutions of sodium ethyl xanthate (NaEtX). XPS showed that the degree of oxidation of coal and mineral pyrite surfaces increased when these pyrites were conditioned in basic solutions. However, conditioning in acidic solutions led to partial removal of surface oxidation from the pyrites. Addition of NaEtX to the acidic and basic solutions enhanced the removal of oxidation from pyrite surfaces. Pretreatment with sulfur dioxide further enhanced the removal of surface oxidation in the presence of NaEtX. Surface oxidation was typically less on mineral pyrite than coal pyrite surfaces following identical treatments. The flotation recoveries of the pyrites in the presence of NaEtX are greatest for the pyrites with the least amount of surface oxidation.
Mechanisms underlying phasic contractions of pregnant rat myometrium stimulated with aluminum fluoride

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The mechanisms underlying phasic myometrial contractions are unknown at this time. Phasic contractions, however, are characterized by repetitive cycles of elevated intracellular calcium (i.e., calcium oscillations). These studies were performed to test the hypothesis that mechanisms underlying phasic myometrial contractions are similar to those producing classic cytosolic calcium oscillations. STUDY DESIGN: Uterine tissue was obtained from pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats (i.e., day 18 to 22 of gestation). In vitro isometric contraction studies were performed with longitudinal strips of myometrial tissue; computer-digitized data were analyzed for contraction area and normalized for tissue cross-section area. Dose-response studies were performed with aluminum fluoride and various inhibitors of cytosolic calcium oscillations. RESULTS: Aluminum fluoride stimulated a significant increase in phasic contractions. In contrast, the addition of 2-nitro-4-carboxyphenyl-N,N-diphenylcarbamate (an inhibitor of phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C), adenine (an inhibitor of calcium-induced calcium release), and phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (an activator of protein kinase C) resulted in significant suppression of aluminum fluoride— stimulated contractions. Similarly, nifedipine (an L -type calcium channel blocker) and removal of extracellular calcium significantly inhibited phasic myometrial contractions. CONCLUSIONS: These studies have confirmed that phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C, calcium-induced calcium release, protein kinase C, and transmembrane calcium influx are important components of the intracellular calcium oscillator that generates agonist-stimulated phasic contractions of pregnant myometrial tissue. (A M J O BSTET G YNECOL 1994; 170:981-90.)
Molecular conformations and 8‐CH exchange rates of purine ribo‐ and deoxyribonucleotides: Investigation by Raman spectroscopy

The rate of deuterium exchange of the 8-CH group in a purine deoxyribonucleotide, is the same as the 8-CH exchange rate in the corresponding purine ribonucleotide, with the exception of 5′-nucleotides of guanine. The observed 20% slower rate of 8-CH exchange in 5′-dGMP versus 5′-rGMP, over the temperature range 50–80°C, are attributable to differences in molecular conformation, including differences in ring puckering of the furanose substituents. Minor differences in 8-CH exhange rates are observed between 5′-and cyclic (3′:5′)-deoxyribonucleotides of a given purine, which are similar to those observed previously between corresponding 5′- and cyclic ribonucleotides that have been attributed to the charge difference of their respective phosphate groups [Ferreira, S. A. & Thomas, G. J., Jr. (1981) J. Raman Spectrosc.11, 508–514]. The coupling of guanine and furanose ring structures in the 5′-nucleotides is also evident from the vibrational frequencies of the guanine ring, which are strongly dependent on the pucker of the attached furanose moiety. Raman difference spectroscopy clearly reveals the dependence of purine nucleotide spectra on sugar-ring pucker. In the case of GMP, the guanine characteristic ring breathing mode near 600–700 cm−1 depends for its exact position and intensity on the proportion of C3′-endo (668 cm−1) and C2′-endo (682 cm−1) conformers in equilibrium with one another. The Raman intensity ratio I(668)/I(682) is proposed as a measure of the conformer ratio C3′-endo/C2′-endo in 5′-dGMP with possible application also to nucleic acids. Among cyclic nucleotides, differences in spectra of deoxyribo- and ribo- forms also appear to be related to differences of molecular conformation.
Synchrotron-radiation limit on the focusing of electron beams.

It is shown that there is an essential limit on the focusing of electron beams due to synchrotron radiation in the final focusing lens of a linear collider. The minimum possible beam size is determined almost only by an invariant emittance of a beam which is given at the entrance of a linear accelerator.
Three-dimensional model of the ligand binding domain of the nuclear receptor for 1α,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3

A three-dimensional model for residues 142–427 of the ligand binding domain (LBD) of the human nuclear receptor for 1α,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 [VDR] has been generated based on the X-ray crystallographic atomic coordinates of the LBD of the rat α1 thyroid receptor (TR). The VDR LBD model is an elongated globular shape comprised of an antiparallel α-helical triple sandwich topology, made up of 12 α-helical elements linked by short loop structures; collectively these structural features are similar to the characteristic secondary and tertiary structures for six nuclear receptors with known X-ray structures. The model has been used to describe the interaction of the conformationally flexible natural hormone, 1α,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 [1α,25(OH)2D3], and a number of related analogs with the VDR LBD. The optimal orientation of the 1α,25(OH)2D3 in the LBD is with its A-ring directed towards the interior and its flexible side chain pointing towards and interacting with helix-12, site of the activation function-2 domain (AF-2) of the VDR. Mapping of four natural and one experimental point mutations of the VDR LBD, which result in ligand-related receptor dysfunction, indicates the close proximity of these amino acids to the bound ligand. J. Cell. Biochem. 74:323–333, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Reaction of polychlorinated biphenyls with mercaptans in non-polar media: Formation of polychlorobiphenyl sulfides

Abstract Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) react readily with alkyl mercaptans in non-polar solvents such as toluene or transformer oil. Reactions occur readily with KOH as the base in the presence of a variety of phase transfer catalysts, including phosphonium salts, crown ethers, and poly (ethylene glycols).
Shock front dynamics in the pulsed laser deposition of YBa2Cu3O7?x

The pulsed laser deposition of YBa2Cu3O7−x targets by excimer laser at fluences of 4–10 J cm−2 in low pressure oxygen backgrounds yields emissive plumes with kinetic energies of 50–200 eV, driving the formation of a shock front with Mach numbers of M = 10–50. The propagation of the shock front is independent of atomic species and adequately characterized by the Sedov–Taylor shock model if the dimensionality of the plume is allowed to deviate from ideal spherical expansion. The ideal efficiency of energy conversion from laser pulse to shock expansion is nearly unity at 1 Torr, but decreases rapidly at lower pressures, where the plume expands beyond the laser footprint during ablation. The low oxygen background pressures, 100–1000 mTorr, typically employed for the production of superconducting films is sufficient for the generation of a strong shock front with shock thickness of 5 mm to less than 0.4 mm, but too low to develop three-dimensional flow. Indeed, dimensionality of the expansion ranges from n = 0.8 to 2.4 over the background oxygen pressure range of 25–1000 mTorr. Shock strength is proportional to the Mach number and inversely dependent on pressure, indicating a thickness limited to approximately the collision mean free path.
Adequacy of Selected Services to International Students in an Urban Technical College.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the adequacy of selected academic and personal services to international students at New York City Technical College of the City University of New York. A population (137) of international students enrolled for one semester was surveyed via a self-developed questionnaire. Analysis of data was by mean weighted scores, chi squares at .05 level of significance, and percentage variances. The findings indicated that academic needs of international students were not satisfied even to minimum levels, and two areas of personal needs attained minimum satisfactory levels. Significant difference in opinions of respondents pertaining to satisfying academic needs was seen between or among the groups in the variables gender, national origin, and native language. In satisfying personal needs significant difference in opinions of respondents was seen among the groups in the variables proficiency in reading in English, proficiency in speaking in English, and proficiency in reading and speaking in one's native language.
Evidence for germanium segregation on thin films of Ag on Ge(111)

Ag films prepared on Ge(111) at nearly room temperature were studied with high-resolution core-level photoemission spectroscopy. By selectively modifying the sample structure to label surface sites on the Ag film, we unambiguously identified the presence of a small amount of Ge segregating on top on the growing Ag overlayer. The origin and behavior of these segregated atoms and the structure of the overlayer are discussed.
Surgical treatment of missed Monteggia lesions in children

Abstract Purpose The treatment of an unrecognized Monteggia lesion continues to pose a therapeutic challenge, as evidenced by the variety of surgical techniques described. Moreover, there are high complication and redislocation rates following surgery. This report concerns a surgical technique to reduce a chronic dislocation of the radial head utilizing an ulnar osteotomy and internal fixation. Methods Six consecutive cases of missed Monteggia lesions were treated in our institution between August 2001 and September 2003. Patient mean age was 6.5 (range 4–8) years, and the mean interval between injury and surgical procedure was 17 (range 1–49) months. Surgery consisted of an ulnar osteotomy with angulation and lengthening, bone grafting at the osteotomy site, and internal fixation. Open reduction of the radial head, repair or reconstruction of the annular ligament or temporary fixation of the radial head with a transarticular wire was not undertaken. Cast immobilization with the forearm in neutral rotatio...
A multivalent vaccine for type 1 diabetes skews T cell subsets to Th2 phenotype in NOD mice

Previous studies by our group, using an experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) model in Strain 13 inbred guinea pigs, resulted in T cell-mediated delayed hypersensitivity; however, autoantibodies proved not to be cytotoxic to thyroid epithelial cells in the presence or absence of complement proteins. Albeit, T cell-mediated lymphocyte cytotoxicity began to diminish sharply concomitantly with increasing titers of circulating autoantibodies, indicating a skewing of the self-reactive response and amelioration of the EAT. Furthermore, immunization of guinea pigs with thyroglobulin in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA) generated a high titer of antithyroglobulin antibodies and proved to inhibit thyroiditis. These observations indicated that the shift in the immune response from Th1 to Th2 and the production of antibodies were likely responsible for ameliorating EAT. Based upon these results, we extrapolated our studies to design a multivalent vaccine, which shows promise in preventing/reversing T1D in NOD mice. A small pilot study was conducted in which a total of 34 mice, 20 non-immunized controls and 14 immunized with syngeneic islet lysate, were monitored for mean day to diabetes for a total of 28 weeks. Immunization of NOD animals with syngeneic islet lysates resulted in a significant delay in diabetes onset (P < 0.001) as compared to non-immunized controls. To further assess the vaccine’s efficacy, robustness, and delay of disease, a large-scale experiment was conducted and monitored for 32 weeks using 106 mice, 64 non-immunized controls and 42 immunized with syngeneic islet lysate. At the end of the study, 90% of the non-immunized group developed diabetes, while less than 25% of the immunized group became diabetic (P < 0.0001). The protective effect, as a result of vaccination, correlated with an increase in the levels of IL-10 and IL-4 cytokines as well as a skewing to Th2-dependent isotype antibodies in serum. Strikingly, adoptive transfer of spleen cells from immunized animals into NOD.scid recipients provided protection against transfer of diabetes by diabetogenic spleen cells. The results of this study provide evidence that vaccination with islet lysate leads to a Th2-dependent skewing of the immune response to islet beta cells as a possible mechanism of protection. This strategy may be implemented as a possible vaccination protocol for arresting and/or preventing T1D in patients.
Detection of a CH4 atmosphere on Pluto

A ratio spectrum of Pluto shows methane absorption bands at 6200, 7200, 7900, 8400, 8600, 8900, and 10,000 A. The heavy saturation of the 8900 band as compared to the other bands indicates a gaseous origin for the observed absorptions. A total methane abundance of 80 + or - 20 m-am is derived, and an upper limit to the total pressure of approximately .05 atm is set. The methane atmosphere would be stable if the mass of Pluto is increased 50% over its present value and its radius is 1400 km. A heavier gas mixed with the methane atmosphere would also aid its stability.
On the statistics of mode partition noise in a nearly single-mode cw laser

Abstract The probability density function of the mode partition noise of a nearly single-mode cw laser is discussed. Nearly single-mode lasers are modeled here as those with a single dominant mode and 2 n side modes with nonnegligible strengths. The drop out rate of each side mode obeys an exponential distribution. The combined probability density function of the drop out rate for 2 n side modes is derived here. This density is evaluated when side modes with various intensities are present.
A technique for measuring antenna drive port impedance using backscatter data

This paper describes a technique for measuring the drive port impedance, denoted Z/sub D/, of an antenna using radar backscatter data. It requires only that one has access to the antenna terminal ports, and the ability to attach a known load to the terminals. In the technique described here, three sets of backscatter data (amplitude and phase) are required: one with the terminals short-circuited, denoted E/sub s/, one with the terminals open-circuited, denoted E/sub o/, and the third with the terminals loaded with a known resistance R/sub o/, denoted E/sub 1/. These data are readily processed to obtain Z/sub D/, according to the simple relationship defined in equation (8). An analysis of the effects of the various error sources affecting the value of Z/sub D/ determined using this technique is also presented. The utility of the technique is illustrated by measuring Z/sub D/ for a "canonical" body using measured results at L band and UHF taken on three differing RCS ranges, selected so that they differ in the quality of the backscatter measurement over the frequency range under consideration. >
New derivation of time-dependent Hartree-Fock theory

Abstract The uncoupled and coupled Hartree-Fock schemes are derived from a new variational principle. The resulting equations are more general than those of previous presentations.
Process flow industry—scheduling and control using theory of constraints

This paper discusses the applicability of the Theory of Constraints (TOC) in the process flow industry and compares TOC to the current practice. The Drum-Buffer-Rope methodology is altered to meet the needs of the process flow environment. Guidelines for the strategic location of and determination of the reduced WIP inventory levels are provided.
Mechanism of tissue‐specific farnesoid X receptor in suppressing the expression of genes in bile‐acid synthesis in mice

Activation of farnesoid X receptor (Fxr, Nr1h4) is a major mechanism in suppressing bile-acid synthesis by reducing the expression levels of genes encoding key bile-acid synthetic enzymes (e.g., cytochrome P450 [CYP]7A1/Cyp7a1 and CYP8B1/Cyp8b1). FXR-mediated induction of hepatic small heterodimer partner (SHP/Shp, Nr0b2) and intestinal fibroblast growth factor 15 (Fgf15; FGF19 in humans) has been shown to be responsible for this suppression. However, the exact contribution of Shp/Fgf15 to this suppression, and the associated cell-signaling pathway, is unclear. By using novel genetically modified mice, the current study showed that the intestinal Fxr/Fgf15 pathway was critical for suppressing both Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 gene expression, but the liver Fxr/Shp pathway was important for suppressing Cyp8b1 gene expression and had a minor role in suppressing Cyp7a1 gene expression. Furthermore, in vivo administration of Fgf15 protein to mice led to a strong activation of extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) and, to a smaller degree, Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in the liver. In addition, deficiency of either the ERK or JNK pathway in mouse livers reduced the basal, but not the Fgf15-mediated, suppression of Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 gene expression. However, deficiency of both ERK and JNK pathways prevented Fgf15-mediated suppression of Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 gene expression. Conclusion: The current study clearly elucidates the underlying molecular mechanism of hepatic versus intestinal Fxr in regulating the expression of genes critical for bile-acid synthesis and hydrophobicity in the liver. (HEPATOLOGY 2012;56:1034–1043)
The Intercalibration of SOHO EIT, CDS-NIS, and TRACE

Using coordinated observations of a quiet coronal region, we study the intercalibration of the CDS and EIT instruments on board the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) and the Transition Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE). We derive the differential emission measure (DEM) distribution from CDS spectral line intensities and convolve it with EIT and TRACE temperature response functions, calculated with the latest atomic data from the CHIANTI database, to predict count rates in their observing channels. We examine different analysis methods and briefly discuss some more advanced aspects of atomic modeling such as the density dependence of the ionization fractions. We investigate the implications for our study using data from the ADAS database. We find that our CDS DEM can predict the TRACE and EIT 171 and 195 A channel count rates to within 25%. However, the accuracy of the predictions depends on the ionization fractions and elemental abundances used. The TRACE 284 A and EIT 284 and 304 A filter predictions do not agree well with the observations, even after taking the contribution from the optically thick He II 304 A line to the TRACE 284 A channel into account. The different CDS DEM solutions we derive using different ionization fractions produce fairly similar results: the majority of the CDS line intensities used are reproduced to within 20% with only around one-fifth reproduced to worse than 50%. However, the comparison provides us with further clues with which to explain the discrepancies found for some lines, and highlights the need for accurate equilibrium ionization balance calculations even at low density.
OMP decarboxylase—An enigma persists ☆

Abstract In 1995, Radzicka and Wolfenden reported that the rate enhancement produced by orotidine 5′-phosphate decarboxylase (ODCase) approaches 1017, making this enzyme the most effective pure protein catalyst known in Nature [A. Radzicka, R. Wolfenden, Science 267 (1995) 90–93]. Over the last 12 years, there have been many hypotheses put forward to explain that impressive effect. In this perspective, we provide a summary of the reaction pathways under consideration for ODCase, highlight the supporting and refuting data, and suggest experiments designed to further test each of the candidate pathways.
Utilizing simulation curriculum to decentralize mental health concepts

The International Society of Psychiatric Nurses as well as The American Psychiatric Nurses Association called for decentralization of psychiatric concepts in undergraduate nursing education. The author developed a series of simulation scenarios to address therapeutic communication and psychosocial needs in a variety of patient care settings. In terms of holistic care, psychological well-being is relevant to all realms of nursing practice. Mental health assessment and intervention need to be included in all areas of an undergraduate-nursing curriculum. The purpose of this project was to create a BSN curriculum that reflects the mental health needs of patients not only in acute care psychiatric facilities but also in medical-surgical disciplines, maternity units, and community settings. The curriculum is designed to also cover mental health throughout the lifespan-from infancy to end of life. A goal was to develop educational techniques, which translate into safe practice. A series of five simulations have been created with additional scenarios to be established in the following academic year. Topics include: alcohol withdrawal, end of life care, post-traumatic stress disorder, post-partum depression, serotonin syndrome, benzodiazepine over dose, elder abuse, depression in military veterans, and geriatric depression. All incorporate QSEN competencies [1]. The overall learning objectives are for undergraduate nursing students to initiate and implement an appropriate mental status assessment using therapeutic communication, and also to provide safe care by identifying risk factors and using clinical decision making to establish requisite nursing interventions. The methodology included relevant documentation through the use of appropriate assessment tools. Learning objectives were assessed through pre-simulation and post-simulation ten-question inventory and anecdotal feedback. QSEN competencies were utilized in creating scenarios as well as pre and post testing. Students voiced an ability to connect the didactic material to their clinical experiences following simulation.
Identifying the Relationships Between Urban Water Consumption and Weather Variables in Seoul, Korea

As anthropogenic climate change threatens the reliability of urban water supplies, it is essential to build understanding of the relationships between weather and water consumption. We used daily and monthly data from 2002 to 2007 to conduct a statistical analysis of how seasonal water use in Seoul, South Korea is affected by weather variables. The Pearson, Kendall, and Spearman tests indicated that all weather variables were significantly correlated with per capita water use at most timescales, with mean, minimum, and maximum temperatures and daylight length positively correlated, and precipitation, wind speed, relative humidity, and cloud cover showing an inverse relation with water use. Once the influence of maximum temperature is controlled, water consumption is only significantly associated with wind speed and daylight length, as indicated by the partial correlation coefficient values. Ordinary least square (OLS) regression models explain between 39 and 61% of the variance in seasonal water use, indi...
Advancing Towards a Hydrogen Energy Economy: Status, Opportunities andBarriers

Performance reliability advances and cost reductions have been achieved with hydrogen and fuel cell technologies in both the transportation and distributed energy sectors. This paper reviews the status of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, identifies key business and policy drivers for the hydrogen economy, critically examines key barriers to implementing the hydrogen economy, identifies and discusses key national initiatives to advance the hydrogen economy, and identifies and discusses key intergovernmental initiatives and activities to advance the hydrogen economy. Hydrogen and fuel cell technology advances, coupled with a reduction in costs and improvements in performance reliability, present new opportunities for developed and developing countries to achieve energy, economic and environmental security. Substantial national research and development investments in hydrogen production, storage, transport, end-use technologies (e.g., fuel cells), safety and public education underscore future opportunities. Intergovernmental bodies such as Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), International Energy Agency (IEA) and the International Partnership for the Hydrogen Economy (IPHE) provide a multilateral framework for development of a global hydrogen economy. While the pathway forward for the hydrogen economy is precarious alternative energy options offer substantially fewer public benefits.
Some Thoughts on Educational Testing: Measurement Policy Issues into the Next Millennium.

What are key issues that educational measurement professionals must confront in the next decade? What resources can we draw on as we face these issues? How can educational measurement contribute most effectively to educational reform?