cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Metal Ruthenates by Spray Pyrolysis

Submicrometer crystalline metal ruthenate powders with perovskite structure, MRuO3 (M = Sr, La), and pyrochlore structure, M2Ru2O7-x(0.5 < x < 1; M = Bi, Pb, Y, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm), were prepared by spray pyrolysis using metal nitrates and glycolates under an oxygen-gas atmosphere at temperatures up to 1100°C. Submicrometer-sized solid single crystals (SrRuO3), submicrometer-sized hollow spheres consisting of nanocrystallites (pyrochlore rare-earth ruthenates, Bi2Ru2O7, and Pb2Ru2O6.5 below 1000°C), and nanometer-sized particles (Pb2.31Ru1.69O6.5 and Bi-Pb-O above 1000°C) were observed. Particle formation proceeded by intraparticle reaction and intraparticle reaction followed by evaporation of volatile metal oxides to form metal oxide vapors followed by condensation and reaction to form particles. The former was observed for systems where no volatile metal oxides were formed, whereas the latter occurred for the Pb-Ru-O and Bi-Ru-O systems, where volatile metal oxides, such as Bi2O, PbO, and RuOx could occur. Particle morphology depended strongly on precursor properties. Submicrometer-sized single-crystal SrRuO3 particles could be formed from the metal nitrates but not from Sr(NO3)2 and ruthenium glycolate, which gave hollow polycrystalline particles. In general, crystallite size could be controlled by varying precursor properties and reactor temperature, with higher temperatures giving larger crystallite sizes.
Association of sindbis virion glycoproteins and their precursors.

We have studied the association of the Sindbis virus glycoproteins in mature virions and infected cells. The glycoproteins were cross-linked with bifunctional amino-reactive reagents (11 A cross-linking distance), some of which could be subsequently cleaved by reduction. Using monospecific rabbit antisera against each viral envelope glycoprotein it was found that >90% of the cross-linked glycoprotein dimers from intact virions or virions solubilized with Triton X100 prior to cross-linking were heterodimers of E1 and E2. The pattern of cross-linked glycoproteins from intact virions as well as infected cells suggested that three E1-E2 dimers may be associated to form a hexameric subunit. Cross-linking of pulselabeled infected monolayers showed that PE2 was cross-linked to E1 less efficiently than was E2, suggesting that if PE2 and E1 are associated as a complex in infected cells then their conformation with respect to reactive amino groups is distinct from that of the mature virion glycoproteins. ts mutants of Sindbis virus in the complementation groups corresponding to E1 and PE2 fail to cleave PE2 at the non-permissive temperature (40 °C). In monolayers infected with these mutants or a heat-resistant variant of Sindbis virus, the glycoprotein precursors synthesized at the elevated temperature were readily cross-linked into large aggregates, indicating a temperature-sensitive tendency for the proteins to aggregate.
World-Systems Analysis and Anthropology: A New Détente?

In this review, I describe world-systems analysis and, to a lesser extent, sustainability science and political ecology, and argue that they suffer from a shared inability—or unwillingness—to address seriously the impact of individual agents as explained by agency theory. I explore several critical insights recently generated by world-systems analysis—the importance of frontiers, violence, market exchange, and ideology to world-system change and cycling—and demonstrate their relevance to earth-system models. Finally, I invite anthropologists to provide the data needed to test these models in our modern, globalized world.
A DNA damage response in Escherichia coli involving the alternative sigma factor, RpoS

We isolated an Escherichia coli mutant in the iraD gene, sensitive to various forms of DNA damage. Our data are consistent with the function of IraD to promote accumulation of the alternative transcription sigma factor, RpoS, by binding to the adaptor RssB protein that targets RpoS for degradation. Our results demonstrate the physiological importance of this mode of regulation for DNA damage tolerance. Although RpoS is best known for its regulation of genes induced in stationary phase, our work underscores the importance of the RpoS regulon in a DNA damage response in actively growing cells. We show that iraD transcription is induced by DNA damage by a mechanism independent of the SOS response. The IraD and SOS regulatory pathways appear to act synergistically to ensure survival of cells faced with oxidative or DNA damaging stress during cellular growth.
Multi-electron transfer mechanism of dimethylamine borane in electroless gold deposition

Abstract A multi-step electron transfer mechanism is described for the oxidation of the reducing agent dimethylamine borane (DMAB) on gold in alkaline media. According to this mechanism, the active reducing species produced from DMAB in the presence of high hydroxide content is the BH3OH−. This species undergoes series of irreversible electrochemical oxidation producing the following intermediates BH 2 ( OH ) 2 - , BH ( OH ) 3 - and B ( OH ) 4 - , the latter of which is the final product. Cyclic voltammograms of DMAB in KOH at various molar ratios of DMAB:KOH indicate that the oxidation of the intermediates requires sufficient pH to proceed. The number of electrons transferred according to the proposed mechanism was studied using rotating disk electrode (RDE). The anodic polarization curves of DMAB in hydroxide electrolyte at RDE exhibited three half-wave potentials with E1/2 of −0.778, −0.174 and 0.248 V. The proposed electrochemical mechanism is correlated with conventional redox iodimetric titration. From the standpoint of electroless gold deposition reaction, the significance of the above mechanism lies in the ability to compare the actual plating potential with the potential range in which each electroactive intermediate is oxidized. Since the gold deposition potential is in the range of the third wave, it indicates that all three intermediates are involved. This work may have far-reaching consequences in enhancing the practical applications of gold and nickel in electronics packaging applications.
ENTER INTO HIS GATES: AN ANALYSIS OF BLACK CHURCH PARTICIPATION PATTERNS

This study examines contemporary trends in Black Church adult participation and whether and how patterns are influenced by factors such as denomination, location, church and clergy profile, church environment, and programmatic efforts. Bivariate and ordered logit results based on Faith Factor 2000 Project data across seven denominations suggest minimal denominational influence; however, church environment, including worship features and sermonic emphasis, as well as varied programs, positively influence participation. Additionally, participation decline is apparent among rural congregations. Results help illumine profiles of Black churches most likely to experience high or low levels of participation.
Physical and sensory characteristics of sugar cookies containing mixtures of wheat, fonio (Digitaria exilis) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) flours

Summary White fonio (Digitaria exilis) and California blackeye cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) flours were used in sugar cookie preparation. Formulations were: (1) 100% wheat, (2) 50% wheat/50% fonio, (3) 50% wheat/50% cowpea, (4) 33% wheat/33% fonio/33% cowpea, (5) 25% wheat/75% fonio, (6) 25% wheat/50% fonio/25% cowpea, (7) 75% fonio/25% cowpea and (8) 50% fonio/50% cowpea. The 100% wheat cookies had the greatest spread ratio (5.86) and the 75% wheat/25% cowpea the least (4.39). The 50% fonio/50% cowpea cookies required the most force (720.3 N) to shear and the 50% wheat/50% fonio the least (399.4 N). The 100% wheat and the 50% wheat/50% cowpea cookies had the lightest colour and the 25% wheat/75% fonio the darkest. Sensory panel assessments of appearance, colour and texture were not affected by component flours. Cookies containing 100% wheat or 50% wheat /50% fonio received the highest hedonic ratings for flavour (7.1 and 6.7, respectively) and overall acceptability (6.9 and 6.5, respectively). All other formulations were unacceptable.
Catalytic performance comparison of shape-dependent nanocrystals and oriented ultra thin films of Pt4Cu alloy in the formic acid oxidation process

Research efforts continue to focus on the development of viable and cost-effective fuel cell catalysts with minimized Pt content. This work presents a comparative study between Pt4Cu nanocubes and nano-octahedra as well as Pt4Cu (100) and (111) thin films used as catalysts for formic acid oxidation. This paper introduces a novel synthetic method for Pt4Cu nano-octahedra, and it also demonstrates for the first time the use of surface limited redox replacement of Pb underpotentially deposited layer for epitaxial growth of thin alloy films. Overall, the nanoparticle catalysts exhibit superior performance in terms of durability when compared to their thin film counterparts but feature nearly fivefold lower activity. As a result, it was determined that both types of catalysts accumulate nearly equal charge density in their lifespan. In terms of crystallographic orientation, the results indicate that the nanocubes and Pt4Cu (100) thin films outperform the nano-octahedra and Pt4Cu (111) thin films in terms of durability but feature equal to slightly lower activity. This significant difference in durability of catalysts with different crystallographic orientation is attributed to interplay of passivation (from CO poisoning and Pt oxidation) and dissolution of Pt. When compared to pure Pt catalysts (nanoparticles and thin films), all of the Pt4Cu catalysts in this work exhibit superior performance toward formic acid oxidation in terms of activity and durability.
Thermodynamic properties of methyl-substituted indans

Abstract The low-temperature thermal properties of three dimethylindans (1,1; 4,6; and 4,7) and two tetramethylindans (1,1,4,6 and 1,1,4,7) were measured by adiabatic calorimetry from 10 to about 400 K. Properties measured included the heat capacity of the condensed phases at saturation pressure, enthalpy of fusion, triple-point temperature, and purity of sample. The 1,1,4,6-tetramethylindan exhibited a lambda transition with a peak at 191 K. The 1,1,4,7 sample formed a glass when cooled rapidly from the liquid. The glass was studied from 10 K to the transition temperature (about 160 K). The results were used to calculate thermodynamic functions at selected temperature for the condensed phases −{G 3 (T)−H°(0)} T , {H 3 (T)−H°(0)} T , {H s (T)−H°(0)},S s , C s , and the thermodynamic functions for the ideal gas.
The effect of informed consent on results of a standard upper extremity intake questionnaire

Purpose The trend toward requiring explicit consent from patients participating in observational research introduces the potential for consent bias, either through selection bias or through the Hawthorne effect. In the Hawthorne effect, patients may alter responses based on awareness of participation in a study, thus potentially limiting its applicability to a generalized orthopedic practice. We hypothesized that study subjects' awareness of participation in an observational study by informed consent would alter responses to a standard upper extremity questionnaire in a statistically and clinically meaningful way compared with patients who filled out the questionnaire as a quality control measure. Methods We retrospectively reviewed data on 39 patients who underwent isolated carpal tunnel release, who had completed preoperative and postoperative Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick DASH) forms without providing consent for study participation. Next, we approached 35 patients scheduled to undergo isolated carpal tunnel release who completed the intake questionnaire on the day of surgery, for consent to participate in the study. After obtaining consent but before surgery, these patients completed a second questionnaire and then completed a postoperative questionnaire at a mean of 8 weeks postoperatively. Results There were no significant differences in age, sex, insurance status, symptom duration, nerve conduction study and electromyography results, or disease severity between groups. We identified no statistically significant difference in preoperative or postoperative Quick DASH score between the retrospective and prospective cohorts (40 ± 23 vs 40 ± 19 preoperatively; 27 ± 25 vs 19 ± 13 postoperatively) or within the prospective cohort before and after obtaining informed consent. Conclusions Informed consent did not significantly alter patients' responses to the Quick DASH questionnaire. These results suggest that both opt-in and opt-out approaches to observational research in hand surgery provide results that may be applicable to a generalized orthopedic practice. Clinical relevance This study provides evidence that will inform the interpretation of observational research findings in hand surgery.
Using verilog HDL to teach computer architecture concepts

Students in computer architecture courses, especially undergraduates, need to design computer components in order to gain an in-depth understanding of architectural concepts. For maximum benefit, students must be active learners, engage the material and design, i. e., produce components to meet a specific need. Unfortunately, computers have become so sophisticated that designing architectural components, e. g., a cache memory, in hardware is not feasible in a one semester course. This paper describes an approach where students use a hardware description language (HDL), Verilog HDL and an associated simulator, to design components of computer systems and explore architectural concepts. To support this approach, the author has developed web-based course materials which include a manual on Verilog HDL, a paper on how to realize his Verilog-based computational model in digital circuits and twelve structured laboratory exercises.
First Report of Potato Powdery Scab, Caused by Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea, in North Dakota.

Powdery scab is a serious disease of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) that can cause extensive surface defects on susceptible potato cultivars. The pathogen, Spongospora subterranea (Wallr.) Lagerh. f. sp. subterranea J. A. Tomlinson, is an important concern in seed potato production because current seed certification standards in North Dakota have a zero tolerance for this pathogen. Powdery scab had not previously been identified in North Dakota. Until recently this disease was not thought to be present in U.S. commercial potato-producing areas. Powdery scab has now been shown to be more widely distributed than previously thought (1), having been identified in several locations in eastern and western North America. However, environmental conditions in North Dakota, including high soil pH, low rainfall, and high temperatures, are not considered favorable for powdery scab development. Diseased potatoes were found in a field from Griggs County, ND, in the fall of 1994 and characteristic cystosori were present in erumpent lesions on infected tubers. The field was an irrigated circle planted to three different cultivars. The cultivars Goldrush and Red Norland were symptomless, while cv. Red La-Soda was severely affected. Up to 30% of the tuber surfaces were diseased and disease incidence approached 25%. The infected crop was destroyed. Pathogenicity was confirmed by planting pieces of diseased tuber tissue adjacent to healthy seed pieces of Russet Burbank. Transmission of the obligate parasite occurred naturally by simulating conditions that were favorable for infection, acidic potting mix (Jiffy-Mix) maintained at a high water potential. Progeny plants were found to be infected on both tubers and roots after 60 days. Control plants that were not exposed to diseased tuber pieces were unaffected. North Dakota, a major seed-potato-producing state, ships seed to every other potato-producing area in the U.S. and much of Canada. Infected seed shipped to areas with a favorable environment for disease development may result in crops becoming diseased and unmarketable. The cooler temperatures and higher than normal rainfall during the 1992 to 1995 seasons may account for powdery scab development in North Dakota. Recent increases in irrigated agriculture and potato production in North Dakota could lead to the infestation of new areas, restricting the value of that land for potato production. Reference: (1) B. Christ et al. Am. Potato J. 65:583, 1988.
Analogues of the potential antipsychotic agent 1192U90: amide modifications.

Analogues of 2-amino-N-(4-(4-(1,2-benzisothiazol-3-yl)-l-piperazinyl) -butyl)benzamide hydrochloride (1192U90) were prepared and evaluated in receptor binding assays for the dopamine D2, serotonin 5-HT1a, and serotonin 5-HT2 receptors. Eight compounds have been synthesized in which the amide group of 1192U90 has been replaced with a variety of functional groups (i.e. ester, ketone, thioamide, butyramide, butyranilide, sulfonamide, alkoxyamide and hydrazide). These compounds exhibited moderate to potent affinities (0.55-200 nM) for all three receptors. Several analogues exhibited improved selectivity for the 5-HT2 receptor with D2/5-HT2 binding ratios greater than 1192U90.
Improving ophthalmic outcomes in children with unilateral coronal synostosis by treatment with endoscopic strip craniectomy and helmet therapy rather than fronto-orbital advancement.

Purpose To compare long-term ophthalmic outcomes in infants treated for unilateral coronal synostosis (UCS) by endoscopic strip craniectomy (ESC) and helmet therapy with those treated by fronto-orbital advancement (FOA). Methods Consecutive patients with UCS, uncomplicated by other suture synostosis, were identified by a retrospective review of medical records. Assessment of presence of amblyopia, cycloplegic refraction, strabismus, and strabismus surgical intervention at all visits was recorded. Results Between 2004 and 2010, 22 patients were treated by FOA (mean follow-up, 21.5 months) and 21 patients with ESC and helmet therapy (mean follow-up, 23.5 months). The mean aniso-astigmatism was equal; however, the SD was greater for those treated by FOA ( P P P = 0.0015) and to undergo surgical correction of their strabismus (odds ratio, 6.3:1). Conclusions Children with UCS treated with ESC and helmeting had less severe overelevation in adduction, amblyopia, extremes of astigmatism, and less need for strabismus surgery than those treated by FOA. Although the reason for these more favorable outcomes remains uncertain, we speculate that the earlier timing of ESC or differences in the anatomical changes resulting from the two procedures may play a role.
Theoretical study of the 2Σu+ and 2Σg+ states of Li2− and Na2−

Abstract Ab initio calculations are performed to obtain potential energy curves for the X 1 Σ g + state of Li 2 and Na 2 and the X 2 Σ g + and A 2 Σ g + states of their anions. The A 2 Σ g + M 2 − curves are found to intersect the X 1 Σ g + M 2 curves at low energies and are expected to play a major role in the e − + M 2 → M − + M process.
Acute iatrogenic pancreatitis complicating CT-guided celiac ganglion neurolysis in chronic pancreatitis.

Editor: Celiac ganglion neurolysis (CGN) with alcohol instillation has been used for pain management in patients experiencing intense abdominal pain refractory to conventional pain management. Pain relief has been reported in as many as 90% of patients, with only minor complications, such as transient hypotension and diarrhea (1). The bilateral posterior approach is the preferred method of CGN by some authors (2), but the anterior approach with computed tomography (CT) guidance often has been selected by radiologists in view of its relative simplicity in the supine position, as well as patient comfort (2). Although it has been theorized that pancreatitis could result from needle traversal of the pancreas en route to the celiac ganglia via the anterior approach (2), the actual complication itself has not been reported to our knowledge. Herein we report an apparently technically successful CGN in a patient who eventually developed severe pancreatitis after treatment from an anterior approach. A 51-year-old man was referred to the interventional radiology service from the gastroenterology service for CT-guided CGN to relieve his chronic abdominal pain. His pain was secondary to chronic pancreatitis that had been diagnosed 4 months earlier, likely precipitated by previous episodes of gallstone pancreatitis. He had undergone a cholecystectomy previously. He was a chronic alcohol and tobacco user, and had other diseases of the gastrointestinal system, including possible irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, severe gastritis, hiatal hernia, and scattered diverticulosis on imaging.
Concise syntheses of (±)-dichroanone, (±)-dichroanal B, (±)-taiwaniaquinol B, and (±)-taiwaniaquinone D

The total syntheses of dichroanone and dichroanal B, as well as the formal syntheses of taiwaniaquinol B and taiwaniaquinone D, are reported.
Chiral repulsion in the pion-nucleus optical potential

It is shown that there exist additional sizeable sources of repulsion inthe /ital S/-wave pion-nucleus optical potential of chiral origin. It is foundthat (/ital b//sub 0/)/sub rchiral//congruent//minus/0.011m/sub ..pi..//sup /minus/1/ and(Re/ital B//sub 0/)/sub chiral//congruent//minus/0.023m/sub ..pi..//sup /minus/4/using cloudy bag form factors. Taking medium enhancement intoaccount, this repulsion seems to be enough to offset both Galilean attraction(/proportional to//rho/) and the attraction in Re/ital B//sub 0/(/proportional to//rho//sup 2/) from..delta..-hole pairs.
A photochemical box model for urban air quality study

Abstract The photochemical box model (PBM) developed in the present study is based on the principle of mass conservation. It has a horizontal domain of the size of a typical city and a vertical dimension defined by the mixed-layer height. The concentration of any pollutant is determined by horizontal advection, vertical entrainment, source emissions and chemical reactions. A one-dimensional high resolution boundary layer model by Blackadar (Preprints, Third Symp. on Atmospheric Turbulence, Diffusion, and Air Quality, Raleigh, Am. Met. Soc., pp. 443–447, 1976; Advances in Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Vol. 1, No. 1 (edited by Pfafflin J. and Ziegler E.), pp. 50–85. Gordon and Breach, New York, 1979) has been incorporated in the PBM and further developed to consider the effect of urban heat islands in the simulation of mixed layer height. The predicted mixed-layer heights compare very well with observations. The gas phase chemical kinetic mechanism used in the Regional Acid Deposition Model II (RADM2) and that of an earlier version of PBM have been used to calculate the contributions of chemical reactions to the changes of pollutant concentrations. Detailed analysis and comparisons of the two chemical mechanisms have been made. The simulated pollutant concentrations using both chemical mechanisms are in very good agreement with available observations for CO, NO, NO2 and O3. A radiative transfer model developed by Madronich (J. geophys. Res.92, 9740–9752, 1987) has been incorporated in the PBM for the calculation of actinic flux and photolytic rate constants. Height-averaged and radiation-corrected photolytic rate constants are used for the photochemical reactions. Budget analyses conducted for CO, NO, NO2 and O3 have enhanced our understanding of the relative contributions of horizontal advection, vertical entrainment, source emissions and chemical reactions to the overall rate of change of their concentrations. Model predictions are not sensitive to the large number of peroxy radical-peroxy radical reactions in the RADM2 chemical mechanism under urban conditions.
The Decision to Retire Early: A Review and Conceptualization

This article explores three interconnected decisions related to early retirement- the decision whether to leave a long-term job prior to age 65. the decision whether to accept bridge employment, and the decision whether to obtain bridge employment in the same industry or occupation as the last job- and the relationships among these three decisions and adjustment to retirement. In addition, this article examines the key variables that influence these three decisions, integrating previous research on individual-level, family-level, job- and career-related, organization-level, and environmental-level factors. The article concludes with an examination of methodological issues in the study of early retirement decisions and provides directions for future theory development.
Exploring bacterial organelle interactomes: a model of the protein-protein interaction network in the Pdu microcompartment.

Bacterial microcompartments (MCPs) are protein-bound organelles that carry out diverse metabolic pathways in a wide range of bacteria. These supramolecular assemblies consist of a thin outer protein shell, reminiscent of a viral capsid, which encapsulates sequentially acting enzymes. The most complex MCP elucidated so far is the propanediol utilizing (Pdu) microcompartment. It contains the reactions for degrading 1,2-propanediol. While several experimental studies on the Pdu system have provided hints about its organization, a clear picture of how all the individual components interact has not emerged yet. Here we use co-evolution-based methods, involving pairwise comparisons of protein phylogenetic trees, to predict the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network governing the assembly of the Pdu MCP. We propose a model of the Pdu interactome, from which selected PPIs are further inspected via computational docking simulations. We find that shell protein PduA is able to serve as a “universal hub” for targeting an array of enzymes presenting special N-terminal extensions, namely PduC, D, E, L and P. The varied N-terminal peptides are predicted to bind in the same cleft on the presumptive luminal face of the PduA hexamer. We also propose that PduV, a protein of unknown function with remote homology to the Ras-like GTPase superfamily, is likely to localize outside the MCP, interacting with the protruding β-barrel of the hexameric PduU shell protein. Preliminary experiments involving a bacterial two-hybrid assay are presented that corroborate the existence of a PduU-PduV interaction. This first systematic computational study aimed at characterizing the interactome of a bacterial microcompartment provides fresh insight into the organization of the Pdu MCP.
On the throughput analysis of LTE and WiFi in unlicensed band

In this paper, the co-channel performance of large scale deployment of LTE in Unlicensed (LTE-U) band and WiFi is studied using stochastic geometry. Analytical expressions of LTE-U throughput in presence of WiFi are presented and are partly validated by the simulation results. The LTE-U Low Power Nodes (LPNs) are deployed as Poisson Point Process (PPP), and, the WiFi transmissions are modeled as hardcore Matern point process. Using this analytical approach the impact of various parameters such as sensing threshold and transmission power on the co-existence of LTE-U and WiFi is studied.
Kinesin force generation measured using a centrifuge microscope sperm-gliding motility assay

To measure force generation and characterize the relationship between force and velocity in kinesin-driven motility we have developed a centrifuge microscope sperm-gliding motility assay. The average (extrapolated) value of maximum isometric force at low kinesin density was 0.90 +/- 0.14 pN. Furthermore, in the experiments at low kinesin density, sperm pulled off before stall at forces between 0.40 and 0.75 pN. To further characterize our kinesin-demembranated sperm assay we estimated maximum isometric force using a laser trap-based assay. At low kinesin density, 4.34 +/- 1.5 pN was the maximum force. Using values of axoneme stiffness available from other studies, we concluded that, in our centrifuge microscope-based assay, a sperm axoneme functions as a lever arm, magnifying the centrifugal force and leading to pull-off before stall. In addition, drag of the distal portion of the axoneme is increased by the centrifugal force (because the axoneme is rotated into closer proximity to the glass surface) and represents an additional force that the kinesin motor must overcome.
Synthesis and characterization of selenate and sulfate-selenate ettringite structure phases

Abstract Crystalline ettringite structure phases with selenate substituted partially and completely for sulfate have been synthesized and characterized by chemical analysis, XRD, SEM and FTIR spectrometry. There is complete miscibility between sulfate and selenate ettringite. According to a proposed structural formula model, the phases were deficient in sulfate/selenate, and all but the selenate end member were slightly deficient in aluminum, compared to the nominal stoichiometry Ca6Al2(XO4)3(OH)12·26H2O, X = S, Se. Solid solution with a hydroxide ettringite is proposed. Selenate-substituted ettringite could be a host phase for selenium in solid waste forms, especially those based on aluminosulfate cements.
Inactivating the middle cerebellar peduncle abolishes the expression of short-latency conditioned eyeblinks.

Abstract The interposed nuclei (IN) of the cerebellum play a crucial role in the classically conditioned eyeblink circuit. It has previously been shown in well-trained animals that injecting the IN with GABAA antagonists produces short-latency conditioned responses (SLRs). The mechanism underlying SLR generation is not clear. According to one concept, SLRs originate in cerebellar nuclei in response to direct inputs from collaterals of mossy fibers. An alternate explanation is that SLRs are produced by extra-cerebellar circuits that are excited by increased tonic activity in cerebellar nuclei or by the combined action of inputs to cerebellar nuclei from mossy fiber collaterals and incompletely blocked Purkinje cells. In the present study, we examined whether cerebellar afferent axons in the middle cerebellar peduncle (MCP) participate in SLR expression. We hypothesized that if SLRs are evoked by the sensory mossy fiber input to the IN and cerebellar cortex, then blocking the MCP should abolish these responses. Well-trained animals, which had been implanted with dual injection cannulae in the left IN and the left MCP, were injected with gabazine (GZ) into the IN to produce SLRs followed by an injection of the sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX) into the MCP. TTX infusions in the MCP suppressed both CRs and SLRs. These findings suggest that the expression of SLRs depends on both direct and cerebellar cortex-mediated sensory information from the mossy fiber system.
Spectral abundance fraction estimation of materials using Kalman filters

Kalman filter has been widely used in statistical signal processing for parameter estimation. Although a Kalman filter approach has been recently developed for spectral unmixing, referred to as Kalman filter-based linear unmixing (KFLU), its applicability to spectral characterization within a single pixel vector has not been explored. This paper presents a new application of Kalman filtering in spectral estimation and quantification. It develops a Kalman filter-based spectral signature esimator (KFSSE) which is different from the KFLU in the sense that the former performs a Kalman filter wavelength by wavelength across a spectral signature as opposed to the latter which implements a Kalman filter pixel vector by pixel vector in an image cube. The idea of the KFSSE is to implement the state equation to characterize the true spectral signature, while the measurement equation is being used to describe the spectral signature to be processed. Additionally, since a Kalman filter can accurately estimate spectral abundance fraction of a signature, our proposed KFSSE can further used for spectral quantification for subpixel targets and mixed pixel vectors, called Kalman filter-based spectral quantifier (KFSQ). Such spectral quantification is particularly important for chemical/biological defense which requires quantification of detected agents for damage control assessment. Several different types of hyperspectral data are used for experiments to demonstrate the ability of the KFSSE in estimation of spectral signature and the utility of the KFSQ in spectral quantification.
On the Low-pressure Mercury-vapour Discharge Mechanism and the Origins of Langmuir's Paradox†

ABSTRACT In l925, Langmuir described probe measurements on the positive columns of low-pressure mercury-vapour discharges yielding results that then seemed paradoxical: the electron energy distribution appeared to be Maxwellian up to several times the mean energy. Since fast electrons are rapidly lost to the walls, and collisions are relatively rare, it is not immediately obvious how the high-energy tail is generated, nor how the electron energies are Maxwellinriized. Low-pressure discharges commonly exhibit natural oscillations. If these are of large amplitude, they will influence the electron energy distribution, and it has been suggested that such oscillations play an essential role in maintaining the discharge. It is important for an understanding of the discharge, and from the point of view of possible device applications, to establish whether random collision processes can maintain the column, or whether additional oscillatory mechanisms are required. The experimental and theoretical work relevant t...
Individualism and the teaching of writing: Response to Vai Ramanathan and Dwight Atkinson

Abstract I am grateful to the editors for inviting me to respond to “Individualism, academic writing, and ESL writers” by Vai Ramanathan and Dwight Atkinson, (JSLW 8.1 [1999]). I was invited because the authors refer repeatedly to my work as a problem for ESL students. I can say that I am largely in agreement with what I would call their root claim, namely, that certain common principles and practices of U.S. university writing pedagogy can carry individualistic implications that can be problematic for some ESL students. But I have some substantial reservations about the various ways in which they pursue this general point. I will focus my response on two key ambiguities that I find central to their essay—treating the first one briefly and the second one at length.
NUTRIENT DISORDER SYMPTOMOLOGY AND FOLIAR CONCENTRATIONS OF CLERODENDRUM THOMSONIAE

Clerodendrum thomsoniae plants were grown in silica sand culture to induce and photograph nutritional disorder symptoms. Plants were grown with a complete modified Hoagland's all nitrate solution. The nutrient deficiency treatments were induced with a complete nutrient formula minus one of the nutrients. Boron toxicity was also induced by increasing the element ten times higher than the complete nutrient formula. Reagent grade chemicals and deionized water of 18-mega ohms purity were used to formulate treatment solutions. The plants were automatically irrigated and the solution drained from the bottom of the pot and captured for reuse. The nutrient solutions were completely replaced weekly. Plants were monitored daily to document and photograph sequential series of symptoms as they developed. Typical symptomology of nutrient disorders and critical tissue concentrations are presented. Plants were harvested for nutrient analysis when initial symptoms were expressed. Nutrient deficiency symptoms were describ...
Numerical method for solving 3D inverse problems of geophysics

Abstract A numerical method is given to invert surface data for the refraction coefficient.
Training the Next Generation of Market Researchers

GfK NOP is seeking to develop excellence through the use of Web 2.0 tools on its graduate training programme. Our approach has been to build excellence by adopting a new organisational form known a...
PUNISHMENT AS DETERRENCE: REPLY TO SPRAGUE

In my 'A Deterrence Theory of Punishment', I argued that a deterrence system of punishment can avoid the charge that it illegitimately uses offenders if its punishments are carried out 'quasi-automatically': threats are issued by a legislature for deterrent purposes, but those who carry out the punishments have no authority to take deterrent considerations into account. Sprague has objected that under such a system, those who carry out punishments will be unable to justify their actions. I reply that if it is justifiable to set up the system in this way in the first place, then this justification will transmit to all actions carried out under it; and that it is justifiable to set up an institution of punishment in this way. Language: en
Promise of resveratrol for easing status epilepticus and epilepsy

Resveratrol (RESV; 3,5,4′-tri-hydroxy stilbene), a naturally occurring phytoalexin, is found at a high concentration in the skin of red grapes and red wine. RESV mediates a wide-range of biological activities, which comprise an increased life span, anti-ischemic, anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies in several animal prototypes of brain injury suggest that RESV is an effective neuroprotective compound. Ability to enter the brain after a peripheral administration and no adverse effects on the brain or body are other features that are appealing for using this compound as a therapy for brain injury or neurodegenerative diseases. The goal of this review is to discuss the promise of RESV for treating acute seizures, preventing the acute seizure or status epilepticus induced development of chronic epilepsy, and easing the chronic epilepsy typified by spontaneous recurrent seizures and cognitive dysfunction. First, the various beneficial effects of RESV on the normal brain are discussed to provide a rationale for considering RESV treatment in the management of acute seizures and epilepsy. Next, the detrimental effects of acute seizures or status epilepticus on the hippocampus and the implications of post-status epilepticus changes in the hippocampus towards the occurrence of chronic epilepsy and cognitive dysfunction are summarized. The final segment evaluates studies that have used RESV as a neuroprotective compound against seizures, and proposes studies that are critically needed prior to the clinical application of RESV as a prophylaxis against the development of chronic epilepsy and cognitive dysfunction after an episode of status epilepticus or head injury.
Evidence for dynamics in proteins as a mechanism for ligand dissociation

NMR and structural analyses of DHFR complexes with inhibitors of differing affinities define a model for ligand dissociation involving conformational switching and a new excited state that mediates the dissociation.
Solid ring armature experiments in a transaugmented railgun

The UTSI 2.4 m long, 11 mm diameter, transaugmented (separately augmented) railgun was used to accelerate solid aluminum ring armatures to velocities up to 3 km/s. The armature consisted of a 15 mm long aluminum tube with a tapered nose and wall thickness of 1 mm. The 1.2 to 1.3 g armatures were tested in a series of both conventional and augmented experiments to evaluate performance, transition velocity and transition action. Precise transition location was determined by correlation of muzzle voltage and the armature light emission measured by a PIN diode looking down the muzzle. The electromagnetic forces in this armature were determined using the MEGA 3-D finite element code. The ring armature produces a magnetic squeeze in the insulator plane which, because of the high compliance of the thin ring, loads the ring against the rails to increase the contact force. Augmentation increases the contact force and increases the transition velocity. This armature configuration may have application in all velocity ranges since it appears to operate as a true hybrid after transition with no plasma armature formation. >
CD14 is an essential mediator of LPS-induced airway disease

Chronic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhalation in rodents recapitulates many classic features of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease seen in humans, including airways hyperresponsiveness, neutrophil...
Delineation of Upstream Signaling Events in the Salmonella Pathogenicity Island 2 Transcriptional Activation Pathway

Survival and replication in the intracellular environment are critical components of the ability of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium to establish systemic infection in the murine host. Intracellular survival is mediated by a number of genetic loci, including Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 (SPI2). SPI2 is a 40-kb locus encoding a type III secretion system that secretes effector molecules, which permits bacterial survival and replication in the intracellular environment of host cells. A two-component regulatory system, ssrAB, is also encoded in SPI2 and controls expression of the secretion system and effectors. While the environmental signals to which SPI2 responds in vivo are not known, activation of expression is dependent on OmpR and can be stimulated in vitro by chelation of cations or by a shift from rich to acidic minimal medium. In this work, we demonstrated that SPI2 activation is associated with OmpR in the phosphorylated form (OmpR-P). Mutations in envZ and ackA-pta, which disrupted two distinct sources of OmpR phosphorylation, indicated that SPI2 activation by chelators or a shift from rich to acidic minimal medium is largely dependent on functional EnvZ. In contrast, the PhoPQ pathway is not required for SPI2 activation in the presence of OmpR-P. As in the case of in vitro stimulation, SPI2 expression in macrophages correlates with the presence of OmpR-P. Additionally, EnvZ, but not acetyl phosphate, is required for maximal expression of SPI2 in the intracellular environment, suggesting that the in vitro SPI2 activation pathway is the same as that used in vivo.
Macronuclear events in synchronously dividing Tetrahymena pyriformis

The macronuclei of synchronously dividing mass cultures of Tetrahymena pyriformis (strain WH6) were examined with the electron microscope for changes during two division cycles. Samples were prepared at 30-minute intervals for a period of 8½ hours which included the time required to induce synchrony by five heat shocks (4½ hours). The interphase macronucleus contains peripheral, crescent-shaped nucleoli and evenly distributed chromatin bodies. Centrally located RNA bodies, composed of fibers, appear 1 to 2 hours following the initial heat shock. They are completely destroyed with ribonuclease whereas the nucleoli are only partially so. Following the third heat shock the RNA bodies move to the periphery and disintegrate; the nucleoli aggregate and form blebs which protrude into the cytoplasm where they appear to pinch off and may contribute to the cytoplasmic ribonucleic acid. Cytokinesis does not occur at this time. Instead the nuclear events are repeated during the 4th and 5th hours, even though the heat shocks are terminated at 4½ hours. Cytokinesis takes place at about 6 hours. The second division occurs about 2½ hours later during which all the macronuclear events noted above are repeated.
Earthquake induced hydrodynamic pressure on axisymmetric offshore structures

The horizontal earthquake induced hydrodynamic pressure acting on the surface of axisymmetric offshore and coastal structures is explored. A semi-analytical and semi-numerical approach based on the use of a complete and non-singular set of Trefftz functions is developed. Using this method, one can model accurately the compressibility of the sea water and gravity waves on the water surface. The proposed method shows a relatively simple and efficient approach. This is because the number of degrees of freedom in the matrix equation depends only on the number of selected Trefftz functions and because the discretization of the fluid domain into boundary elements is restricted to the structural surface only. This method is also easy to apply in engineering analysis of hydrodynamic pressure induced by an actual earthquake acceleration. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the results obtained from this method. Several special interesting topics, such as the effects of the water compressibility, the gravity waves on the water surface and the geometrical shape of the structural surface, are also discussed.
Imagine Being Alone: Making Sense of Life in Contemporary Bosnia and Herzegovina by Remembering the Past

The purpose of this chapter is to explore the ways in which people ­experience changes that are transpiring in their society and how the experience of living through these changes influences their perception of their society and their place in it. The setting that is the focus of my study is Sarajevo, the capital of postwar Bosnia and Herzegovina, 14 years after the signing of the Dayton Peace Accords, which ended the 1992–1995 war in this country. Through a single case study, I examine how a woman who has spent her entire life in the same neighborhood talks about changes that are taking place in her country, her city, and her neighborhood. The findings suggest that the experience of displacement is possible even if one had never been physically displaced, an experience that appears to be inextricably linked to the perceived loss of socio–cultural context. This finding could serve as a basis for future investigations into how loss of social context relates to peoples’ experience of belonging, a research venture that is especially warranted in today’s changing world, with many people losing their sense of belongingness due to either actual physical displacement or social and cultural changes that are transpiring both in their immediate environment as well as globally.
Laser effects in photoionization: numerical solution of coupled equations for a three-dimensional Coulomb potential

The time-dependent Schrodinger equation was solved numerically as a set of coupled equations for an electron moving in three spatial dimensions, bound initially (t ≤ 0) by a Coulomb potential, and acted on by a linearly polarized, single-frequency, classical electromagnetic field that is turned on abruptly at t = 0. The laser field was assumed to be spatially homogeneous, and magnetic interactions between the laser beam and the electron were ignored. Characteristic photoionization times were determined for a wide range of scaled laser intensities and scaled laser frequencies and for a range of electron initial-state quantum numbers nlm. Results are compared with those obtained previously [ Phys. Rev. A40, 683 ( 1989)] for a one-dimensional δ potential.
Cities versus Online Travel Companies Liability for Room Occupancy Taxes

This article examines suits by municipalities against online travel companies (OTCs) for not remitting the appropriate room occupancy tax. At issue is whether OTCs should collect tax on the amount they pay hotels for rooms or on the higher amount charged consumers. This article describes the business structure of OTCs as related to tax collection and discusses legal issues and recent court decisions as well as state and federal legislative proposals to address occupancy tax issues. At this time, it is not possible to cite a single rule that applies in all situations due to the numerous state and local laws and court holdings in relation to this matter. A key question involves whether OTCs are agents for hotels, as argued by many municipalities, or if instead the OTC acts as a personal shopper for would-be guests. In the agency model, the OTCs are in effect selling rooms subject to occupancy tax; while in the merchant model, the OTC would be providing a service, rather than rooms themselves, and the servic...