cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sequence analysis of the lpdV gene for lipoamide dehydrogenase of branched‐chain‐oxoacid dehydrogenase of Pseudomonas putida

The production of two lipoamide dehydrogenases by Pseudomonas is so far unique. One, LPD-val, is the specific E3 component of the branched-chain-oxoacid dehydrogenase and the second, LPD-glc, is the E3 component of 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase and the L-factor of the glycine oxidation system. The objective of the present research was to determine the nucleotide sequence of the structural gene for LPD-val in order to compare its deduced amino acid structure with that of other redox-active disulfide flavoproteins. Northern blots using mRNA isolated from P. putida grown in media with branched-chain amino acids identified a transcript of 6.2 kb which is long enough to encode all the structural genes for the complex. The nucleotide sequence of the structural gene for LPD-val, lpdV, was determined and consists of 459 codons plus the stop codon. The open reading frame begins two bases after the stop codon for the E2 subunit and is composed of 66.3% G+C. Codon usage is characteristic of moderately strongly expressed genes. There is a ribosome-binding site preceding the ATG start codon and a strong candidate for a rho-independent terminator at the 3′ end of the reading frame. The Mr of the protein encoded is 48164 and when the Mr of FAD is added, the total Mr is 48949, which is very close to the value of 49000 obtained by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Similarity comparisons of LPD-val with sequences of three lipoamide dehydrogenases showed that LPD-val was somewhat more distantly related. It is probable that the lipoamide dehydrogenases and the glutathione and mercuric reductases evolved from a common ancestral flavoprotein.
Chromatin Remodeling at DNA Double-Strand Breaks

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) can arise from multiple sources, including exposure to ionizing radiation. The repair of DSBs involves both posttranslational modification of nucleosomes and concentration of DNA-repair proteins at the site of damage. Consequently, nucleosome packing and chromatin architecture surrounding the DSB may limit the ability of the DNA-damage response to access and repair the break. Here, we review early chromatin-based events that promote the formation of open, relaxed chromatin structures at DSBs and that allow the DNA-repair machinery to access the spatially confined region surrounding the DSB, thereby facilitating mammalian DSB repair.
"It's Not Easy Being Green": Charter Schools, the Arts, and Students with Diverse Needs.

At the heart of current education reform is the charter school movement. Charter schools, their role in the New Orleans, Louisiana, educational community, and the effect of charter schools on students with special needs are the focus of this article. New Orleans, Louisiana, has the largest number of students attending public charter schools in the nation, and the struggle of one student, Noah, will illustrate some of the gaps in services that have been created by the new system. Unclear state guidelines, potentially exclusionary acceptance practices, school performance measures that emphasize typical performance in science and language, and lack of effective guidance have led to concerns regarding the equity of services for students with special needs. Potential solutions to these problems are identified and delineated. These include the creation of a central office to oversee special services, a requirement that charter school applicants outline their plan to address creative arts needs and special educa...
Comparative study of synthetic and natural clay filled PP films under surface discharges

It is known from literature that addition of small wt% of nanofillers into pure polypropylene matrix improves the electrical characteristics by many folds. This study is intended to compare the effect of natural and synthetic nanocomposites on the PD resistance when introduced in small concentrations in the base PP material. This work investigates the effect of type of nanofiller and its content on the PD resistance of PP films under surface discharges. The sample aging is performed under a voltage that constantly increases with time (Ramp voltage) to minimize the effect of space charge redistribution during the aging process on the sample PD behavior and PD characteristics. Samples with 0, 2, 6 wt% of natural organoclay nanocomposites and 2, 4, 8 wt% of synthetic organo clay nanocomposites are considered for this purpose. These samples are subjected to surface PDs and the degree of surface erosion is quantified by Optical microscope and surface Profilometer.
Biosynthesis of triacylglycerol in Thunbergia alata : Additional evidence for involvement of phosphatidylcholine in unusual monoenoic oil production

Abstract The seed oil of Thunbergia alata has an unusual fatty acid composition which consists of more than 80 % 16:1 Δ6 . This fatty acid is produced in the plastid by the action of a Δ6 palmitoyl (16:0)-ACP desaturase. To examine the biosynthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG) containing high concentrations of this unusual monoenoic fatty acid, endosperm dissected from developing T. alata seeds was labeled with [1- 14 C]-acetate. At early time points (5–15 min), the predominant labeled lipid was PC whereas at later time points (greater than 30 min) TAG became the major labeled lipid. Analysis of the acyl group composition of each lipid revealed that radiolabeled 16:1 Δ6 was highest at early time points in PC while at later time points, it was found to be highest in TAG. Further analysis of the distribution of labeled acyl groups within PC indicated that 16:1 Δ6 at the sn -2 position comprised the majority (55–78 %) of total labeled acyl groups whereas 16:1 Δ6 at the sn -1 position constituted only a small fraction (12–15 %) of the total labeled acyl groups. In contrast, unlabeled PC contained lower amounts of 16:1 Δ6 (16 %) at the sn -2 position. These results are consistent with previous studies suggesting a flux of novel monoenoic acids through PC during TAG biosynthesis, and furthermore imply a stereospecific flux through the sn- 2 position of PC.
The ILC Marx Modulator Development Program at SLAC

The International Linear Collider (ILC) baseline design requires 576 L-band klystron stations, each supplying 10 MW peak RF power to the accelerating structures. Each klystron requires a modulator capable of delivering 12 kV, 140 A 1.6 ms pulses, at 5 Hz. Solid-state Marx modulator topologies are rapidly becoming feasible with the advent of PC-board-level 4500 V IGBTs, fast single junction HV diodes, high density capacitors, and sophisticated modeling software. Making full use of recent technology advances, the ILC Marx Modulator program at SLAC plans to pursue a 12 kV solid-state Marx design, which appears to offer significantly higher efficiency, availability, and cost savings than existing modulator options.
Bioenergetic function in cardiovascular cells: the importance of the reserve capacity and its biological regulation

The ability of the cell to generate sufficient energy through oxidative phosphorylation and to maintain healthy pools of mitochondria are critical for survival and maintenance of normal biological function, especially during periods of increased oxidative stress. Mitochondria in most cardiovascular cells function at a basal level that only draws upon a small fraction of the total bioenergetic capability of the organelle; the apparent respiratory state of mitochondria in these cells is often close to state 4. The difference between the basal and maximal activity, equivalent to state 3, of the respiratory chain is called the reserve capacity. We hypothesize that the reserve capacity serves the increased energy demands for maintenance of organ function and cellular repair. However, the factors that determine the volume of the reserve capacity and its relevance to biology are not well understood. In this study, we first examined whether responses to 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), a lipid peroxidation product found in atherosclerotic lesions and the diseased heart, differ between vascular smooth muscle cells, adult mouse cardiomyocytes, and rat neonatal cardiomyocytes. In both types of cardiomyocytes, oxygen consumption increased after HNE treatment, while oxygen consumption in smooth muscle cells decreased. The increase in oxygen consumption in cardiomyocytes decreased the reserve capacity and shifted the apparent respiratory state closer to state 3. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes respiring on pyruvate alone had a fourfold higher reserve capacity than cells with glucose as the sole substrate, and these cells were more resistant to mitochondrial dysfunction induced by 4-HNE. The integration of the concepts of reserve capacity and state-apparent are discussed along with the proposal of two potential models by which mitochondria respond to stress.
State-resolved characterization of a surface reaction: Evidence for concerted dynamics.

State-resolved characterization is carried out for a photodissociation reaction in the monolayer region on a metal surface, ${\mathrm{Cl}}_{2}\mathrm{CO}/\mathrm{Ag}(110)$. Contrary to common expectation based on quenching rates, both translational and rotational energies of CO (g) from monolayer photodissociation are much higher than those from multilayers. We take this as evidence for concerted reaction dynamics on the surface: The high exothermicity in the Cl-Ag bond formation on the surface exerts part of the energy to the Cl-CO coordinate, leading to higher energies in CO (g).
The Axis of Non-Proliferation

Decades of treaties and agreements curtailing weapons stockpiles provided an indirect umbrella of security for nonnuclear members of NATO and the Warsaw Pact.
A critique of Levinson’s view of Q- and M-inferences in historical pragmatics

In Presumptive Meanings: The Theory of Conversational Implicature, Levinson (2000) argues that in historical as well as synchronic work there is need to distinguish three types of pragmatic principles, which he labels the Q-, M-, and I- “heuristics”. This is in contrast to Horn (1984), who argues for two types of “principles”: Q- and R-. In the present paper I argue that the proposed distinction between Q- and M- Heuristics is not necessary or consistently maintainable. Two of Levinson’s examples are considered: the development of anaphora (reflexive -self in English), and constraints on innovations in word formation (e.g. informer/informant). The conclusion is that a single heuristic (Q) is adequate, as proposed by Horn.
Moment-tensor solutions estimated using optimal filter theory: global seismicity, 1995

Abstract Moment-tensor solutions, estimated using optimal filter theory, are listed for 241 moderate-to-large size earthquakes that occurred during 1995.
When Does Politics Matter? A Reexamination of the Determinants of African-American and Latino Municipal Employment Patterns

We develop a revised theory of political influence that addresses the relationship between minority political representation and administrative-level municipal employment patterns among African-Americans and Latinos in U.S. cities. We conduct pooled time-series analysis on employment data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for years 1987 through 2001. We find that the dynamics of political representation are different for African-Americans and Latinos. Cities with African-American mayors or city managers tend to have more African-Americans serving in administrative positions in municipal agencies. Although this mayoral/city manager effect is not found for Latino employment, more Latino council members lead to more Latino administrators. We also find that African-American employment gains resulting from political representation are more likely to occur in agencies that have the most policy relevance for African-Americans, yet this is not the case for Latino employment. Our results sugges...
Ronald Reagan and the social issues: Rhetorical support for the Christian Right

Abstract While scholars have studied the manner in which the Christian Right supported President Reagan, they have neglected to examine Reagan's support for the Christian Right. The purpose of this research to is analyze the public support Reagan accorded the legislative objectives of the Christian Right, through an examination of his State of the Union addresses. Among the findings are that Reagan devoted limited (but significant) attention to the social issues, focused primarily on the need for traditional values, anti-abortion, and school prayer legislation, and employed rather restrained language in support of the social issues.
French Ships and Their Cargoes Sailing Between Damiette and Ottoman Ports 1777-17811)

Grâce a l'etude des registres de commerce maritime de Damiette (Egypte) et d'une documentation similaire francaise, l'auteur propose ici une analyse des mouvements des bateaux de commerce francais au service de l'Empire Ottoman a travers le Bassin Mediteraneen au 18eme siecle. La precision des archives francaises permet de connaitre les noms des capitaines et des vaisseaux, le nombre des passagers, les marchandises acheminees, les dates de depart et d'arrivee des cargaisons, et leur destination.
Identification of 6-0-α-D-mannopyranosyl myo-inositol from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract A mannosyl inositol isolated from Baker's yeast was shown to be α-linked from the 1 position of mannose to the 6 position of myo -inositol by comparison of the products of permethylation, hydrolysis, and reduction of the disaccharide. The structure was established using chemical and enzymatic methods, gas chromatography, and combined gas chromatographymass spectrometry.
Evaluating Marie Byrd Land stability using an improved basal topography

Abstract Prior understanding of the ice-sheet setting in Marie Byrd Land (MBL) was derived primarily from geologic and geochemical studies of the current nunataks, with very few geophysical surveys imaging the ice covered regions. The geologic context suggested that the ice rests on a broad regional high, in contrast to the deep basins and trenches that characterize the majority of West Antarctica. This assumed topography would favor long-term stability for the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) in MBL. Airborne geophysical data collected in 2009 reveal a much deeper bed than previously estimated, including a significant trough underlying DeVicq Glacier and evidence for extensive glacial erosion. Using these data, we produce a new map of subglacial topography, with which we model the sensitivity of WAIS to a warming ocean using the ice-sheet model of Pollard and DeConto (2012b) . We compare the results to estimates of ice loss during WAIS collapse using the previously defined subglacial topography, to determine the impact of the newly discovered subglacial features. Our results indicate that the topographic changes are not sufficient to destabilize the northern margin of MBL currently feeding the Getz Ice Shelf; the majority of ice loss occurs from flow toward the Siple Coast. However, despite only slight dynamic differences, using the new bed as a boundary condition results in an additional 8 cm of sea-level rise during major glacial retreat, an increase of just over 2%. Precise estimation of past and future ice retreat, as well as a complete understanding of the geologic history of the region, will require a higher resolution picture of the bed topography around the Executive Committee mountains.
The Semmes Weinstein monofilament examination as a screening tool for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Objective The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate current evidence in the literature on the efficacy of Semmes Weinstein monofilament examination (SWME) in diagnosing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Methods The PubMed database was searched through August 2008 for articles pertaining to DPN and SWME with no language or publication date restrictions. Studies with original data comparing the diagnostic value of SWME with that of one or more other modalities for DPN in patients with diabetes mellitus were analyzed. Data were extracted by two independent investigators. Diagnostic values were calculated after classifying data by reference test, SWME methodology, and diagnostic threshold. Results Of the 764 studies identified, 30 articles were selected, involving 8365 patients. There was great variation in both the reference test and the methodology of SWME. However, current literature suggests that nerve conduction study (NCS) is the gold standard for diagnosing DPN. Four studies were identified which directly compared SWME with NCS and encompassed 1065 patients with, and 52 patients without diabetes mellitus. SWME had a sensitivity ranging from 57% (95% confidence interval [CI], 44% to 68%) to 93% (95% CI, 77% to 99%), specificity ranging from 75% (95% CI, 64% to 84%) to 100% (95% CI, 63% to 100%), positive predictive value (PPV) ranging from 84% (95% CI, 74% to 90%) to 100% (95% CI, 87% to 100%), and negative predictive value (NPV) ranging from 36% (95% CI, 29% to 43%) to 94% (95% CI, 91% to 96%). Conclusions There is great variation in the current literature regarding the diagnostic value of SWME as a result of different methodologies. To maximize the diagnostic value of SWME, a three site test involving the plantar aspects of the great toe, the third metatarsal, and the fifth metatarsals should be used. Screening is vital in identifying DPN early, enabling earlier intervention and management to reduce the risk of ulceration and lower extremity amputation.
L-selectin and β7 integrin on donor CD4 T cells are required for the early migration to host mesenteric lymph nodes and acute colitis of graft-versus-host disease

The homing receptors L-selectin and α4β7 integrin facilitate entry of T cells into the gut-associated organized lymphoid tissues such as the mesenteric lymph nodes and Peyer patches. We studied the impact of inactivation of genes encoding these receptors on the ability of purified donor CD4+ T cells to induce acute lethal graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) associated with severe colitis in irradiated major histocompatibility complex (MHC)–mismatched mice. Whereas lack of expression of a single receptor had no significant impact on the severity of colitis and GVHD, the lack of expression of both receptors markedly ameliorated colitis and early deaths observed with wild-type (WT) T cells. The changes in colitis and GVHD were reflected in a marked reduction in the early accumulation of donor T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes and subsequently in the colon. The purified WT donor CD4+ T cells did not accumulate early in the Peyer patches and failed to induce acute injury to the small intestine. In conclusion, the combination of CD62L and β7 integrin is required to induce acute colitis and facilitate entry of CD4+ donor T cells in the mesenteric nodes associated with lethal GVHD in allogeneic hosts.
95--670 GHz EPR studies of canthaxanthin radical cation stabilized on a silica-alumina surface

The 95−670 GHz EPR measurements at 5 K were performed on canthaxanthin radical cation chemically generated on silica−alumina. The 327 GHz and higher frequency EPR spectra were resolved into two principal components of the g tensor. Spectral simulation indicated this to be the result of g anisotropy where g∥ = 2.0032 and g⊥ = 2.0023. This type of g tensor is consistent with the theory for polyacene π-radical cations, which states that the g tensor becomes cylindrically symmetric with increasing chain length. This also demonstrates that the symmetrical unresolved EPR line at 9 GHz is due to a carotenoid π-radical cation with electron density distributed throughout the whole chain as predicted by RHF−INDO/SP molecular orbital calculations. The lack of temperature dependence of the EPR line widths over the range of 5−80 K at 327 GHz suggests rapid rotation of methyl groups even at 5 K that averages out the proton couplings from three oriented β-protons. In fact, similar line widths at 5 K were observed at 670...
It Takes a Village: A Mixed Method Analysis of Inner Setting Variables and Dialectical Behavior Therapy Implementation.

Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, this mixed method study explored the relationship between inner setting variables and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) implementation. Intensively trained DBT clinicians completed an online quantitative survey (n = 79) and a subset were sequentially interviewed using qualitative methods (n = 20) to identify relationships between inner setting variables and DBT implementation. Four interpersonal variables—team cohesion, team communication, team climate, and supervision—were correlated with the quantity of DBT elements implemented. Qualitative themes corroborated these findings. Additional variables were connected to implementation by either quantitative or qualitative findings, but not both.
Accelerated Release of Ethylene by Cotton following Application of Indolyl-3-acetic Acid

PREVIOUSLY we reported that 2,4-dichlorophenoxy-acetic acid (2,4-D) stimulated the release of ethylene by the cotton plant (Gossypium hirsutum)1. The maximum stimulation occurred during the initial period of growth responses to 2,4-D and before chlorosis or necrosis was visible. This report presents evidence that the response was not peculiar to the highly phytotoxic 2,4-D, but that a native auxin, indolyl-3-acetic acid, (IAA), also accelerates the release of ethylene.
Museum informatics and collaborative technologies: the emerging socio-technological dimension of information science in museum environments

The museum offers a starting point from which to examine the fundamental nature of collaborative work and interdisciplinary scholarship. This article examines the socio-technological impact of introducing advanced information technology into the Spurlock Museum, a museum of world history and culture at the University of Illinois. It addresses the implementation of such methodologies as computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW) and computer-mediated communication (CMC) in the museum environment. Discussions are illustrated with examples and scenarios drawn from the Spurlock Museum and emphasize the intimate relationship between the museum's social structure and information systems. Viewed in a holistic fashion, such studies of collaborative activities within the museum will help shape the future of museum informatics, an emerging sub-discipline of the field of social informatics.
Generation, segregation, ascent, and emplacement of Alleghanian plutons in the southern Appalachians

The Carboniferous-Permian (Alleghanian) orogeny in the southern Appalachians produced a distinctive 45 m.y.-long intrusive event that formed a NE-trending band of dispersed, composite plutons covering $$10,500 km^{2}$$. Of these plutons, 75% are metaluminous biotite or amphibole + biotite granitoids with lower crustal sources, and 20% are peraluminous biotite + muscovite ± garnet or cordierite + biotite granitoids with more evolved crustal sources. The remaining 5% are gabbroids, intermediate rocks, and possible alkaline granitoids. The granitoid to gabbroid + intermediate rock area ratio is 180:1. The exposed intrusive rocks were produced at a relatively slow rate of $$2 km^{3}$$/ linear km/m.y. along the orogen, indicating an inability of the source to produce much melt, inefficient melting mechanisms, or difficulty of magma segregation and ascent. The absence of spatial trends in rock composition and age of emplacement, the small amount but relative abundance of the granitoids, and coincidence with con...
Treatment Technology Evaluation for Aqueous Metal and Cyanide Bearing Hazardous Wastes (F007)

As a result of recent developments In the area of hazardous waste management, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Is evaluating the performance of various technologies for the treatment and/or the destruction of certain wastes that are presently being disposed of In landfills and surface Impoundments. As a part of this program, the University of Cincinnati Is testing currently available treatment technologies that are applicable to metal- and cyanidebearing hazardous wastes at the U.S. EPA Test and Evaluation Facility In Cincinnati, Ohio. The following unit processes have been evaluated: alkaline chlorlnatlon, lime precipitation/ flocculation/settllng, multi-media filtration, anlon exchange, and cation exchange. Examination of several process configurations, utilizing the above-mentioned unit processes, did not produce any treatment train that could prevent codepositlon of cyanides and metals In the sludges when the feed stream contained mixed metals and complexed cyanides. It was also determined tha...
Theoretical biology: safeguards and spurs.

Biological traits are buffered against genetic and environmental upset by a process called canalization. New work suggests this may be a general feature of regulatory gene networks, selected to survive gene loss.
Endobronchial tuberculosis in children.

SUMMARY The endoscopic findings in a series of cases of endobronchitis associated with primary tuberculosis are presented to emphasize their importance in diagnosis and prognosis. Forty-three children with endobronchial disease were observed. The one case associated with reinfection pulmonary tuberculosis responded promptly to streptomycin therapy. In the remaining 42 cases, where the endobronchial disease was associated with primary pulmonary tuberculosis, no definite evidence of the effective use of streptomycin therapy was obtained. The most common symptom suggesting endobronchial disease was persistent cough, sometimes paroxsymal or brassy in character. Wheezing was a complaint in one-fourth of the cases. More than one-quarter of the cases had no symptoms suggesting tuberculous involvement of the bronchi. Dullness and diminished breath sounds over a localized pulmonic area were the most common physical signs. A persistent wheeze was heard in about one-third of the patients. X-ray films of 37 of the 42 patients showed homogeneous shadows involving lobes or segments and the other five showed obstructive emphysema. Bronchoscopy could be done safely and repeatedly because of a new technique of anesthesia with surital and local pontocaine. Criteria for bronchoscopy in children with primary pulmonary tuberculosis were cough, wheeze, sudden increase in x-ray shadows around a previously stable primary focus, an x-ray shadow suggesting obstruction or obstructive emphysema or a report of persistently positive cultures from gastric washings in a child without significant findings on x-ray film or physical examination. A pattern of the pathogenesis of endobronchial disease associated with primary tuberculosis emerges as a result of repeated bronchoscopies; bronchial compression without mucosal involvement may precede endobronchial disease. Edema and inflammation may precede ulceration and granulation; erosion of the bronchial wall may follow; caseous polyps may develop and ultimately stenosis of a bronchus. Bronchiectasis has already been proved by bronchogram in five of the 42 cases and is suspected in 18 more.
Vascular ring in an extremely low birth weight infant

Vascular rings due to aortic arch anomalies can be a major cause of tracheoesophageal obstruction in infants. But there is no report of vascular ring, in an extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant. This is a report of an infant with birth weight of 560 g, who has not diagnosed vascular ring until 6 months of age because of asymptomatic process by prolonged tracheal intubation. The patient, was treated for double aortic arch with tracheomalacia surgically by simple division of the atretic left arch and the ligamentum arteriosus, aortopexy and tracheostomy before reaching full recovery at 3 years of age. We reported our management of vascular rings in the ELBW infant. This case suggested that the difficulty of extubation in ELBW infants in spite of the improvement of respiratory condition should raise a suspicion of the tracheal compression by other lesions such as vascular rings.
Teachers' perceptions of school violence

Abstract Introduction: Pediatric nurse practitioners, especially those working in the school settings, often interact with children and teachers who confront school violence. This descriptive study was conducted to obtain teachers' insights into the problems of school violence. Method: Voluntary questionnaire surveys were distributed to 536 elementary, middle, and high school teachers in a suburban school district in central Pennsylvania. Seventy-four percent returned usable surveys (n = 393). Data were tabulated and results are presented as percentages, frequencies, and chi-square analysis. Results: Fifty-six percent of teachers believed that violence or the threat of violence had a direct impact on the quality of education they are able to provide. Elementary school teachers were more likely to be victims of a physical assault by a student ( P =.0006) and more likely to fear parents ( P =.002) than were other teachers. Discussion: Even in suburban schools, teachers are likely to be victimized and fear students or their parents. This fear adversely affects the quality of education provided. Pediatric nurse practitioners play a significant role in addressing this public health concern. J Pediatr Health Care. (2003). 17, 79-83.
Fire ants in Houston toad habitat: annual activity and responses to canopy cover and fire.

Abstract The red imported fire ant Solenopsis invicta (RIFA) is an invasive species found throughout the southern and southeastern United States. Since its introduction, RIFA has been shown to nega...
Soluble Steroids II: Amino acid derivatives

A series of amino acid derivatives of cholesterol, 9α-fluorohydrocortisone, 6α-fluoro-16α-hydroxycortisone-16,17-acetonide, and 2α-methyl-5α-dihydrotestosterone have been synthesized in a further attempt to provide compounds with increased aqueous solubility. The acylable hydroxy group of the steroid was converted to the chloroformate and was then condensed with the appropriate amino acid. The potassium salts of the various derivatives which have been prepared possess 100–600 times the aqueous solubility of the parent compounds. Infrared characteristics of the several compounds have been determined. Pharmacological studies have been undertaken and show, in general, reduced activity when the derivatives are administered subcutaneously.
Scientific inbreeding and same-team replication: Type D personality as an example

Replication is essential for validating correct results, sorting out false-positive early discoveries, and improving the accuracy and precision of estimated effects. However, some types of seemingly successful replication may foster a spurious notion of increased credibility, if they are performed by the same team and propagate or extend the same errors made by the original discoveries. Besides same-team replication, replication by other teams may also succumb to inbreeding, if it cannot fiercely maintain its independence. These patterns include obedient replication and obliged replication. I discuss these replication patterns in the context of associations and effects in the psychological sciences, drawing from the criticism of Coyne and de Voogd of the proposed association between type D personality and cardiovascular mortality and other empirical examples.
On Variances of Conditional Linear Least-Squares Search Parameter Estimates

Among the class of models that are nonlinear in the parameters, some lend themselves to a simple estimation method requiring repeated application of linear least squares. However, there is confusion over methods for computing standard errors of such estimates. In this paper we define a simple method for estimating parameters of certain nonlinear models and clarify the interpretation of results. This method is based on conditional linear least squares. It has been used by Just (1974a,b, 1977) to estimate a generalized adaptive-expectations supply model. We show that a method commonly used to estimate asymptotic standard errors of such parameter estimates systematically overstates precision. Factors that affect the degree of overstatement are delineated. A method of calculating correct precision measures is contrasted empirically with the incorrect procedure.
Hepatic Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Do Contemporary Morbidity and Mortality Rates Demand a Transition to Ablation as First-Line Treatment?

Background Despite the rising incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), challenges and controversy persist in optimizing treatment. As recent randomized trials suggest that ablation can have oncologic equivalence compared with resection for early HCC, the relative morbidity of the 2 approaches is a central issue in treatment decisions. Although excellent contemporary perioperative outcomes have been reported by a few hepatobiliary units, it is not clear that they can be replicated in broader practice. Our objective was to help inform this treatment dilemma by defining perioperative outcomes in a broader set of patients as represented in NSQIP-participating institutions. Study Design Mortality and morbidity data were extracted from the 2005–2010 NSQIP Participant Use Data Files based on Current Procedural Terminology (hepatectomy and ablation) and ICD-9 (HCC). Perioperative outcomes were reviewed, and factors associated with morbidity and mortality were identified with multivariable logistic regression. Results Eight hundred and thirty-seven (52%) underwent minor hepatectomy, 444 (28%) underwent major hepatectomy, and 323 (20%) underwent surgical ablation. Mortality rates were 3.4% for minor hepatectomy, 3.7% for ablation, and 8.3% for major hepatectomy (p Conclusions Exceedingly high complication rates after major hepatectomy for HCC exist in the broader NSQIP treatment environment. These data strongly support the use of parenchymal-sparing minor resections or ablation over major hepatectomy for early HCC when feasible.
Failing to Master Divinity: How Institutional Type, Financial Debt, Community Acceptance, and Gender Affect Seminary Graduates’ Career Choices

Seminaries, as both educational and religious organizations, have the goal of training religious leaders. In this article, I analyze the factors associated with the breakdown of this process, i.e. when a seminarian does not want to be in a religious career. I offer four reasons for this breakdown: institutional type, financial strain, community acceptance, and gender. Drawing on recent survey data of 3015 American and Canadian seminarians graduating with the Master of Divinity degree from 136 seminaries from the Association of Theological Schools, I interpret results from multilevel logistic regressions testing five hypotheses. I find that Master of Divinity graduates who attend a university-affiliated seminary are less likely to want to be in a religious career, while those who feel more accepted within the seminary community are more likely. Educational debt has no effect. Most importantly, gender has profound effects on the choice to enter a religious career.
Taking items out of context: dimensional shifts with the short form of the Beck Depression Inventory.

Summary.-Two samples of students completed the short form of the Beck Depression Inventory under different conditions. One sample completed the items embedded within the full scale, while the other sample completed only the items in the short form. Identical methods of factor analysis produced , different factor patterns for the two samples. For the embedded'items, three \ interpretable factors were derived, and the first two factors resembled results of previous analyses of the long form. Analysis of the other sample produced three new factors. indicating that the short form may be measuring different dimensions than the long form. The factorial structure of the Beck Depression Inventory (2) has been investigated by several authors (3, 4, 5, 6). Noticeably absent, however, is a similar analysis of the factorial structure of the short form of the same instrument (1). The primary objective of the present study is the evaluation of the dimensionality of the 13 items selected by Beck and Beck (1) for the short form. However, in order to investigate the effect of changes in context on the factorial pauerns of the items, the present study factor analyzed the 13 items on two different samples under different conditions. One sample took the short form alone, while the other sample took the full 21 item inventory. For both samples, identical factor analytic methods evaluated the 13 items for the separate samples.
An hGM-CSF DNA-Cationic Lipid Complexed Autologous Tumor Cell Vaccine did not Improve Remission Duration in Dogs with Lymphoma

Introduction: Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers in dogs and while clinical remission can be induced using chemotherapy, very few dogs are cured. Since cytokine-adjuvanted autologous whole-tumor-cell vaccines (ATCV) can induce potent antitumor immune responses against otherwise non-immunogenic cancers we initiated a study of such an approach in dogs with lymphoma. Methods: Following achievement of a complete remission using a 19-week CHOP-based chemotherapy protocol, 51 dogs with B-cell lymphoma were randomized to receive 8 treatments (4 weekly, then 4 additional at q2wk intervals) of vaccine or lipid-equivalent placebo. Dogs were followed monthly for assessment of remission duration and survival. Surrogate indices of immune response (delayed-type hypersensitivity, interferon-γ quantitative RT-PCR, lymphocyte proliferation, and flow cytometry for lymphoma-specific antibodies) were also investigated before and after vaccination. Results: No significant difference in median remission duration was observed between dogs receiving vaccine (277 days) or placebo (258 days); the Kaplan-Meier curves were virtually super-imposable. No significant differences in surrogate indices of immune response were noted pre- and post-vaccination. Conclusions: In this context, an hGM-CSF DNA-cationic lipid complexed ATCV vaccine did not enhance remission duration in dogs with lymphoma, likely due to lack of vaccine-induced tumor-specific immunity.
Unique Aspects of the Elderly Surgical Population: An Anesthesiologist's Perspective.

Increasing life expectancies paired with age-related comorbidities have resulted in the continued growth of the elderly surgical population. In this group, age-associated changes and decreased physiological reserve impede the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis during times of physiological stress, with a subsequent decrease in physiological reserve. This can lead to age-related physiological and cognitive dysfunction resulting in perioperative complications. Changes in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, nervous, hepatorenal, endocrine, skin, and soft tissue systems are discussed as they are connected to the perioperative experience. Alterations affect both the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of administered drugs. Elderly patients with coexisting diseases are at a greater risk for polypharmacy that can further complicate anesthetic management. Consequently, the importance of conducting a focused preoperative evaluation and identifying potential risk factors is strongly emphasized. Efforts to maintain intraoperative normothermia have been shown to be of great importance. Procedures to maintain stable body temperature throughout the perioperative period are presented. The choice of anesthetic technique, in regard to a regional versus general anesthetic approach, is debated widely in the literature. The type of anesthesia to be administered should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, with special consideration given to the health status of the patient, the type of operation being conducted, and the expertise of the anesthesiologist. Specifically addressed in this article are age-related cognitive issues such as postoperative cognitive dysfunction and postoperative delirium. Strategies are suggested for avoiding these pitfalls.
Anti‐oxidative and cholesterol efflux capacities of high‐density lipoprotein are reduced in ischaemic cardiomyopathy

Aims Various pathological changes lead to the development of heart failure (HF). HDL is dysfunctional in both acute coronary syndrome, as measured by the HDL inflammatory index (HII) assay, and stable coronary disease, as measured by cholesterol efflux capacity. We therefore hypothesized that these functions of HDL are also impaired in subjects with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. Methods and results A case–control study was performed on subjects in the University of Pennsylvania Catheterization Study (PennCath) cohort of patients with angina. Cases had EF <50% and angiographic CAD (≥70% stenosis of any vessel; n = 23); controls included those with EF ≥55% and no CAD (n = 46). Serum from subjects was apolipoprotein-B depleted to isolate an HDL fraction. To measure HDL anti-oxidative capacity, the HDL fraction was incubated with LDL and a reporter lipid that fluoresces when oxidized. To measure cholesterol efflux capacity, the HDL fraction was also incubated with macrophages and tritium-labelled cholesterol. Mean HII was higher and efflux capacity lower in subjects with ischaemic cardiomyopathy (HII 0.26 vs. –0.028; efflux 0.80 vs. 0.92; P < 0.05). In a multivariable logistic regression model, both high HII and low efflux capacity were significant risk factors for HF [HII odds ratio (OR) 2.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.0–3.9, P = 0.002; efflux OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5–3.0, P = 0.03]. These effects persisted after adjustment for covariates and traditional risk factors for HF. Conclusion Subjects with reduced EF from ischaemia have lower HDL concentration and also impaired HDL function. HDL is a versatile lipoprotein particle with various anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective functions, whose impairment may contribute to ischaemic heart failure.
Nonparametric forecasting of low-dimensional dynamical systems

This paper presents a nonparametric modeling approach for forecasting stochastic dynamical systems on low-dimensional manifolds. The key idea is to represent the discrete shift maps on a smooth basis which can be obtained by the diffusion maps algorithm. In the limit of large data, this approach converges to a Galerkin projection of the semigroup solution to the underlying dynamics on a basis adapted to the invariant measure. This approach allows one to quantify uncertainties (in fact, evolve the probability distribution) for nontrivial dynamical systems with equation-free modeling. We verify our approach on various examples, ranging from an inhomogeneous anisotropic stochastic differential equation on a torus, the chaotic Lorenz three-dimensional model, and the Ni\~no-3.4 data set which is used as a proxy of the El Ni\~no Southern Oscillation.
Mixed spermatogenic germ cell nuclear extracts exhibit high base excision repair activity

Spermatogenic cells exhibit a lower spontaneous mutation frequency than somatic tissues in a lacI transgene and many base excision repair (BER) genes display the highest observed level of expression in the testis. In this study, uracil-DNA glycosylase-initiated BER activity was measured in nuclear extracts prepared from tissues obtained from each of three mouse strains. Extracts from mixed spermatogenic germ cells displayed the greatest activity followed by liver then brain for all three strains, and the activity for a given tissue was consistent among the three strains. Levels of various BER proteins were examined by western blot analyses and found to be consistent with activity levels. Nuclear extracts prepared from purified Sertoli cells, a somatic component of the seminiferous epithelium, exhibited significantly lower activity than mixed spermatogenic cell-type nuclear extracts, thereby suggesting that the high BER activity observed in mixed germ cell nuclear extracts was not a characteristic of all testicular cell types. Nuclear extracts from thymocytes and small intestines were assayed to assess activity in a mitotically active cell type and tissue. Overall, the order of tissues/cells exhibiting the greatest to lowest activity was mixed germ cells > Sertoli cells > thymocytes > small intestine > liver > brain.
Effects of Spray Configuration on the Uniformity of Cooling Rate and Hardness in the Quenching of Aluminum Parts with Nonuniform Shapes

The present study constitutes a step toward the understanding, and eventual optimization, of the spray quenching process for aluminum extrusions. A spray quenching test bed was constructed to simulate an industrial spray quench. This experimental facility allowed for the testing of irregular shapes using up to eight water sprays. Quenching experiments were conducted using flat water sprays in two different configurations with an L-shape testpiece constructed from commercially pure aluminum Al 1100-O. Section thickness and spray configuration were found to have a significant effect on the cooling rate and cooling uniformity. The commercially pure aluminum Al 1100-O L-shape and a similar L-shape constructed from aluminum alloy 2024-T6 were simulated with a two-dimensional finite-element code and spray correlations available from previous studies. Using the quench factor technique, the numerical simulation enabled the assessment of merits of different spray configurations with respect to the magnitude and uniformity of hardness of the 2024-T6 L-shape.
THE FAMILIAL OCCURRENCE OF CREUTZFELDT-JAKOB DISEASE AND ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

We have analysed the familial occurrence of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in 27 families selected from a total of 73 families. Fifteen per cent of all cases of CJD have a family history of disease consistent with autosomal dominant transmission. The onset of disease in familial cases is significantly earlier than in sporadic cases. A maternal effect was not found, nor was there evidence for prenatal vertical transmission of the virus. Temporal and spatial separations between affected members demonstrates that incubation periods ranging at least from one to four decades are to be expected. Affected siblings tend to die at the same age, and not at the same time, which is consistent with some form of vertical transmission (either prenatal or early postnatal), assuming rather uniform incubation periods. CJD occurred in four families in members related by marriage, evidence in favour of horizontal or common source transmission in occasional cases. The familial occurrence of CJD and Alzheimer's disease (AD) were compared using data on 52 families with AD. The age at death and duration of disease in familial AD is greater than in familial CJD. Familial AD also occurs in a pattern of autosomal dominant transmission, without maternal effect. There were four families with AD in which one or more members died from CJD. There were an additional 17 families with AD in which one or more members presented with clinical features resembling CJD. Although virus causing an experimental spongiform encephalopathy was isolated from the brain of two cases of familial AD, most cases of sporadic and familial AD tested failed to cause disease when brain tissue was inoculated into nonhuman primates. The precise mechanism of spread of the virus in familial CJD remains unknown. The results of the present study are consistent with the hypothesis of a genetically inherited susceptibility to infection which is acquired in early infancy or childhood. Other proposed mechanisms such as prenatal vertical transmission or a common environmental source of infection seem less likely.