cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical reduction of methylcobalamin and 5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin on mercury in basic medium

Abstract Electrochemical reduction of methylcobalamin and 5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin (coenzyme B12) was studied at Hg electrodes, in pH 11.7 basic media, by means of dc polarography, differential pulse polarography, cyclic voltammetry, controlled potential electrolysis, and chronoamperometry. A surfactant (Triton X-100) was used to minimize adsorption of the compounds on the mercury cathode. Methylcobalamin was found to exist as an equilibrium mixture of its base-off and base-on forms with Keq=3.6 calculated by an analysis of its two reduction waves at E1/2=−1.20 V and E1/2=−1.50 V (vs. SCE). The value of the forward homogeneous rate constant was found to be 2×103 s−1. A third, ill-defined, broad, catalytic H2 reduction wave is found at E1/2=−1.6 V. The first reduction wave is reversible and is assigned to the formation of a one-electron adduct intermediate from the base-off cobalamin which subsequently undergoes a cleavage of the Co-C bond (i.e., EC process), and the second wave is irreversible and is assigned to a one-electron reduction of the base-on cobalamin. The standard heterogeneous rate constant for the first reduction is 2×10−2cm s−1 and the forward heterogeneous rate constant for the second reduction is 2×10−6 cm s−1. The homogeneous rate constant for the follow-up chemical reaction of the first reduction process, as determined by chronoamperometric methods, is k=0.37 s−1 with a reversible half-wave potential of E1/2r=−1.24 V. In contrast, 5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin, which appears to exist as the base-off form only, exhibits one irreversible reduction wave at E1/2=−1.26 V and a broad, catalytic H2 reduction wave in the same potential region as the methylcobalamin. The irreversible wave at −1.26 V is due to formation of one electron intermediate which undergoes Co-C bond cleavage much faster than that of methylcobalamin. Double step chronoamperometry showed this rate constant to be k=2.7×103 s−1.
Vespula germanica Foragers Do Not Scent-Mark Carbohydrate Food Sites

We tested whether foragers of Vespula germanica leave a chemical attractant at a carbohydrate food site. Foragers were allowed to make 50 or 100 visits to a feeder filled with a rich, unscented fructose solution. We then gave them a choice between this and an identical but unvisited feeder. There was no difference between the number of individuals that chose the visited feeder and those that chose the unvisited one. Instead, wasps showed a tendency to choose a feeder based on its relative position on the feeding stand. We conclude that foragers of V. germanica do not scent-mark food sites. Instead, in the absence of food odor, they rely on local visual cues to relocate carbohydrate food sources.
Inelastic strain distribution and seismic radiation from rupture of a fault kink

[1] We extend an elastodynamic finite element method to incorporate off-fault plastic yielding into a dynamic earthquake rupture model. We simulate rupture for models of faults with a kink (a sharp change in fault strike), examining how off-fault plastic yielding affects rupture propagation, seismic radiation, and near-fault strain distribution. We find that high-frequency radiation from a kink can be reduced by strong plastic yielding near the kink. The reduction is significant above several Hz. When rupture propagates around the kink onto a less favorably stressed fault segment, plastic strain tends to localize into bands and lobes. Off-fault plastic yielding also significantly reduces heterogeneity of residual stresses around the kink following a dynamic event. The calculated plastic strain distribution around the kink and the radiated pulse from the kink are nearly grid independent over the range of element size for which computations are feasible. We also find that plastic strain can sometimes localize spontaneously during rupture along a planar fault, in the absence of a discrete stress concentrator like the kink. In that case, a non-dimensional parameter T, characterizing the initial proximity of off-fault material to its yield strength, determines whether plastic strain localizes into discrete bands or is smoothly distributed, with a large value of T promoting localization. However, in the cases of spontaneous localization, the details of the shear banding change with numerical element size, indicating that the final plastic strain distribution is influenced by interactions occurring at the shortest numerically resolvable scales. Off-fault plastic yielding also makes an important contribution to the cohesive zone at the advancing edge of the rupture.
Interlaboratory calibration of atmospheric nitrous oxide measurements

Samples representative of Northern Hemispheric conditions in mid-1976 were analyzed by 11 laboratories to resolve the question of the absolute tropospheric concentration of nitrous oxide. The laboratories all employed electron capture-gas chromatography for the analysis. After exclusion of one anomalously low determination, the calibration results showed a mean concentration of 323.5 + or - 8.7 ppb v/v nitrous oxide.
A computer simulation of launch procedures for a squadron of minuteman II ICBMs

A computer model simulates the performance of the command and control system of a Minuteman II ICBM squadron. Instead of predicting hardware and weapons performance, it focuses upon how the squadron's launch rules and procedures affect the launch process when there is physical damage.Each of five modeled Launch Control Centers (LCCs) has nominal responsibility for one flight of 10 single-warhead missiles. This model simulates two types of command centers. Its Airborne Launch Control Center (ALCC) assumes control of missiles disconnected from the LCCs because of damage. Although this model currently runs by itself, it is designed to fit into an elaborated model containing levels of higher command authori ty, a coordinated bomber force, and a submarine-launched ballistic missile force.Results of a simple run are explained. Defense policy analysts in the Brookings Foreign Policy Studies Program will use this model and others like it as research tools.
THIONO COMPOUNDS. 8. MUTAGENIC ACTIVITY OF REPRESENTATIVE AMIDES OF THIOPHOSPHORIC ACID

Abstract Amides of thiophosphoric acid were studied, in order to initiate correlations of mutagenicity with structure, by use of a modified Ames assay. Representative thiophosphoramides of the structure (XArNH)3PS were not mutagenic, irrespective of whether X was a reference hydrogen atom, an electron-withdrawing, or an electron-donating group. One phosphoramidothioate of the structure (2,4-X2ArNH)P(S)(OCH2CH3)2 effected base-pair mutation when X was F (but not when X was CH3), when S-9 liver homogenate with exogenous NADP was used; when X was H, only inconsistent mutagenic activity following metabolic activation was observed even at concentrations near those that produced acute cellular toxicity. Mutagenicity of these N-arylamides thus appears to follow guidelines concluded for esters, (RO)3PS, i.e. that mutagenesis is most probable when two groups are small enough to permit nucleophilic attack by a biomacromolecule on the electrophilic phosphorus atom. That the third group should be electron withdrawing...
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascade in the Basolateral Nucleus of Amygdala Is Involved in Extinction of Fear-Potentiated Startle

Previous results indicate that intra-amygdala infusions of NMDA receptor antagonists block the extinction of conditioned fear. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) can be activated by NMDA receptor stimulation and is involved in excitatory fear conditioning. Here, we evaluate the role of MAPK within the basolateral amygdala in the extinction of conditioned fear. Rats received 10 light-shock pairings. After 24 hr, fear was assessed by eliciting the acoustic startle reflex in the presence of the conditioned stimulus (CS) (CS-noise trials) and also in its absence (noise-alone trials). Rats subsequently received an intra-amygdala or intrahippocampal infusion of either 20% DMSO or the MAPK inhibitor PD98059 (500 ng/side) followed 10 min later by 30 presentations of the light CS without shock (extinction training). After 24 hr, they were again tested for fear-potentiated startle. PD98059 infusions into the basolateral amygdala but not the hippocampus significantly reduced extinction, which was otherwise evident in DMSO-infused rats. Control experiments indicated that the effect of intra-amygdala PD98059 could not be attributed to lasting damage to the amygdala or to state dependency. These results suggest that a MAPK-dependent signaling cascade within or very near the basolateral amygdala plays an important role in the extinction of conditioned fear.
Married to an Unbeliever: Households, Hierarchies, and Holiness in 1 Corinthians 7:12–16*

In his Advice to the Bride and Groom, Plutarch famously pronounces: “A married woman should therefore worship and recognize the gods whom her husband holds dear, and these alone. The door must be closed to strange cults and foreign superstitions. No god takes pleasure in cult performed furtively and in secret by a woman.”1 These comments represent a patriarchal ideology that the wife (along with the whole household) should follow the worship practices of the husband. It also suggests the possibility that this counsel was not always followed and that wives might bring their own gods into a marriage, attempting to maintain ritual practices in their honor, perhaps secretly.
Turbulent times: effects of turbulence and violence exposure in adolescence on high school completion, health risk behavior, and mental health in young adulthood.

Turbulent social environments are associated with health and developmental risk, yet mechanisms have been understudied. Guided by a life course framework and stress theory, this study examined the association between turbulent life transitions (including frequent residential mobility, school transitions, family structure disruptions, and homelessness) and exposure to violence during adolescence and high school completion, mental health, and health risk behaviors in young adulthood. Participants (n = 4834) from the U.S. National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, 1997 cohort were followed prospectively from age 12-14 years for 10 years. We used structural equation models to investigate pathways between turbulence and cumulative exposure to violence (CEV), and high school completion, mental health, and health risk behaviors, while accounting for early life socio-demographics, family processes, and individual characteristics. Results indicated that turbulence index was associated with cumulative exposure to violence in adolescence. Both turbulence index and cumulative exposure to violence were positively associated with higher health risk behavior, poorer mental health, and inversely associated with high school completion. These findings highlight the importance of considering the cumulative impact of turbulent and adverse social environments when developing interventions to optimize health and developmental trajectory for adolescents transitioning into adulthood.
Weak Mutation Testing and Completeness of Test Sets

Different approaches to the generation of test data are described. Error-based approaches depend on the definition of classes of commonly occurring program errors. They generate tests which are specifically designed to determine if particular classes of errors occur in a program. An error-based method called weak mutation testing is described. In this method, tests are constructed which are guaranteed to force program statements which contain certain classes of errors to act incorrectly during the execution of the program over those tests. The method is systematic, and a tool can be built to help the user apply the method. It is extensible in the sense that it can be extended to cover additional classes of errors. Its relationship to other software testing methods is discussed. Examples are included.
Can public relations improve the workplace? Measuring the impact of stewardship on the employer-employee relationship

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to use relationship management theory to measure the impact of relationship cultivation on the employer-employee relationship. Specifically, the paper examines how well Kelly's (2001) conceptualization of stewardship can impact internal stakeholders. Design/methodology/approach – Through intercept surveys of 421 adults, the paper used existing scales to measure dimensions of the employer-employee relationship and the participants’ perceptions of stewardship in the workplace. Findings – This study found that the four dimensions of stewardship significantly impact feelings of trust, commitment, satisfaction, and balanced power between the employer and the employee. Additionally, increased use of stewardship resulted in increased involvement by employees. Practical implications – The results of the paper offer several specific suggestions employers can do to communicate more effectively with their employees so that they are not only more informed but also feel more posi...
Strategies for Improving Precision in Group-Randomized Experiments

Interest has rapidly increased in studies that randomly assign classrooms or schools to interventions. When well implemented, such studies eliminate selection bias, providing strong evidence about the impact of the interventions. However, unless expected impacts are large, the number of units to be randomized needs to be quite large to achieve adequate statistical power, making these studies potentially quite expensive. This article considers when and to what extent matching or covariance adjustment can reduce the number of groups needed to achieve adequate power and when these approaches actually reduce power. The presentation is nontechnical.
The Votes-Seats Relationship in State Legislative Elections

One of the most important concerns in democratic political systems is the translation of citizens' votes into seats in representative bodies. Drawing on the literature involving the cube law, the article examines the votes-seats relationship for elections to the lower houses of U.S. state legislatures over the period 1976-1984. The model permitted an examination of the concepts of electoral bias and representation (majoritarianism). The analysis indicated that some degree of bias exists in the states, and they tend more toward a proportional votes-seats relationship than has generally been found for Congress and comparative legislative bodies.
Cardiac tamponade: fluid and pressure effects on electrocardiographic changes.

SummaryDogs were subjected to various procedures in an attempt to clarify several existing theories about the electrocardiographic findings in pericarditis or cardiac tamponade. In this study chang...
Fabrication of porous nanocomposites with controllable specific surface area and strength via suspension infiltration.

Porous ceramics are promising candidates for a variety of applications, including separation membranes, catalyst supports, tissue engineering scaffolds, energy storage devices, and microelectronics. We describe a novel method for creating porous ceramics with controllable specific surface area and high strength. The fabrication procedure involves infiltrating aqueous suspensions of silica nanoparticles into a porous ceramic scaffold. The samples are then freeze-dried to maintain a homogeneous distribution of nanoparticles, followed by partial sintering to bond the infiltrated nanoparticles into place. By repeating this infiltration process multiple times, the specific surface area of the composite can be varied from less than one to well over 100 m2/g. It is also found that this infiltration increases the mechanical strength of the composite. Water flux experiments demonstrate the potential use of these materials as liquid membranes, with no detectable damage to the structure observed after these flux tes...
Reply to Dr. Peter Paradiso

Dear Editor,Dr. Paradiso states that, although 60-70% of US adults have been vaccinated, “there has been no measurable impact on invasive pneumococcal disease, let alone pneumonia, caused by the se...
Polysulfone Membranes Modified with Bioinspired Polydopamine and Silver Nanoparticles Formed in Situ To Mitigate Biofouling

The surface of a polysulfone membrane was modified with a bioinspired polydopamine (PDA) film followed by the in situ formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to mitigate membrane biofouling. The PDA modification enhanced the membrane’s bacterial anti-adhesive properties by increasing the surface hydrophilicity, while AgNPs imparted strong antimicrobial properties to the membrane. The AgNPs could be generated on the membrane surface by simply exposing the membrane to AgNO3 solutions. Ag+ ions were reduced by the catechol groups in PDA; the AgNP mass loading increased with exposure time, and the AgNPs were firmly immobilized on the membrane through metal coordination. During leaching tests, the concentrations of Ag+ ions released were 2–3 orders of magnitude lower than the established contaminant limit for drinking water, thereby providing a safe antimicrobial technology. This novel membrane surface modification technique paves a way to mitigating biofouling by enhancing the membrane’s anti-adhesive and a...
Critical Thinking: Its Application to Substance Abuse Education and Practice

The process of critical thinking enables students to explore, analyze, and evaluate problems, theories, and interventions from divergent views and varying frames of reference. It requires a certain amount of skepticism and curiosity that will reflect upon accepted doctrines and protocols, in order to ascertain their credibility and utility in working with clients. This article presents the obstacles to acquiring critical thinking skills, as well as different strategies that can be utilized by educators to enhance its development and active usage. A theoretical construct and cognitive schema of learning describe the mechanisms of constructing meanings from experiences and advancing to critically assessing broader concepts. In this context, the importance of being introduced to new, empirically-based knowledge and critical thinking in substance abuse courses and practice is discussed, followed by an evaluation of students' advancing critical thinking skills.
Enhanced Jet Mixing to Reduce Jet Aircraft Engine Noise

*† The downstream development o f je t flo w emanating from different n ozzle shapes w as in vestigated. T his experiment was motivated by a desire to reduce the jet exhaust flow noise by increasing the mixing between the jet flow and its surroundings. Water tunnel dye flow visualization e xperiments were conducted on baseline straight circular cross-section nozzle, converging circular cross-section nozzle, and converging two-chevron sawtooth trailing edge nozzle. Both the converging circular and two-chevron nozzles were tapered at a 10 degree convergence angle. Flow visualization results indicated that the peak and valley geometry of the converging twochevron nozzle modified the jet flow structure substantially. Although the jet appeared to be squeezed along the peak to peak plane, the flow escaped radially outwards in the trough to trough plane by a substantial amount. Such an expansion in the jet width is thought to enhance the mixing between the jet flow and its surroundings.
Classical Avatars of India

In ancient India, religious man dwelt in a cosmos vibrantly energized by gods close-by. It was generally acknowledged that there was an overall struggle being waged between the gods and the demons, and good and evil were evenly balanced. At certain times the balance was destroyed and evil gained the upper hand. This situation was deemed unfair, and at such times the God Vishnu intervened by descending to earth in the form of a manifestation of himself known as an Avatar.
Lady Windermere Syndrome

CASE PRESENTATION A 60-year-old female with chronic bronchitis was admitted with a 4-day history of fever and increased baseline cough and sputum production. Physical examination demonstrated diffuse wheezing and bibasilar rales. Chest radiograph revealed hyperexpansion, multiple nodular and linear opacities and calcifications in the right middle lobe and lingula (Figure 1). Computed tomography revealed bronchiectasis of the right middle lobe and lingula (Figure 2). Sputum analysis revealed a polymicrobial infection including Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex (MAC). The Lady Windermere Syndrome is a constellation of imaging and clinical findings that include bronchiectasis of the right middle lobe or lingual (or both) and colonization with MAC. Demographics generally reflect elderly women
Interleukin-4 gene expression and its regulation in cord blood T cells

Aim To explore the possible correlation of nuclear factor of activated T cell (NF AT) activities with interleukin 4 (IL 4) gene expression and its regulation in cord blood T cells. Methods After stimulation with anti CD3 and PMA, in vivo IL 4 and its mRNA in 18 cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) were detected by using ELISA and RT PCR respectively, and the activity of NF AT was detected by using electrophoresis mobility shift assay (EMSA) in 10 CBMC activated T cell nuclear protein, as comparing with 22 normal adult peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMC). Results The mass concentrations of IL 4 in supernatants of CBMC (12.4±1.5)ng/L were significant lower than those of PBMC (37.5±5.5)ng/L,(P∨0.01). The IL 4 gene mRNA expressions in CBMC were significant lower than those in PBMC. The activities of NF AT in PBMC were detectable in our test system, but not in CBMC. Conclusion The lack of the regulation by NF AT at transcription level may be associated with insufficient transcription of IL 4 mRNA in cord blood T cells, and be an important cause of insufficient IL-4 production in cord blood T cells.
Study on Main Agronomic Characters of Annongbiao 810S

The main agronomic characters and economic traits of sterile line Annongbiao 810S with straw-yellow leaf-color marker were studied.The results show that Annongbiao 810S has similar morphological characters(except its yellowish leaf) and other characters with its parent Annong 810S.
Species-specific PCR for the identification of the adulterant in edible vegetable oils

Objective: To develop a specific PCR method for the identification of adulterant in edible vegetable oils for hogwash oil.Methods: The species-specific gene of the low-value edible oil acts as targets.PCR(Polymerase Chain Reaction) and double PCR method were respectively used to identify the oil samples mixed by one or two kinds of low-value oils.Results: For the 8 oil samples mixed by a kind of low-value oil in the ratio of 2/3 or 1/2,at least in a parallel test,the low-value oil species-specific genes were detected in all 8 samples for the former and were detected in 5 oil samples for the latter.The detection for the 3 oil samples mixed by two kinds of low-value oils in the ratio of 1∶1∶1 suggested that the adulteration detection rate and reproducibility were poor.Conclusion: The novel method,with high specific detection targets,can effectively identify the adulterants in edible vegetable oils when a higher proportion of low-value oil is mixed.But if the proportion is lower than 50%,the identification ability need to be promoted.
Observation on common mosquito-day activity rhythm in Baoji city

Objective To study and master the day activity rhythm of the common mosquitoes in Baoji city.Methods Person account trap method.Results Culicidae 2 and 7 species were caught.The number of Aedes koreicus was the largest,accounting for 55.69% of the total number of mosquitoes.Culex pipiens pallens was the second which accounted for 23.92%.Aedes hatorii was the third which accounted for 15.68%.Aedes albopictus,Aedes vexans,Culex modestus and Culex halifaxia were the smallest,accounting for 4.71%.Conciusion Aedes koreicus,Culex pipiens pallens and Aedes hatorii is the main components of the local mosquitoes.Different types of activities domain provide a basis for the mosquito control.
Abstract A30: AKT activation as a mechanism of escape from TGFβ-mediated lethal EMT

Frequent inactivation of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway core components in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), especially the transcription factor SMAD4, suggests that TGFβ signaling is tumor suppressive in the pancreas. Yet, 50% of PDA retains an intact core TGFβ pathway, suggesting that there are mechanisms by which these tumors escape TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression. In unpublished work, we have delineated a mechanism for TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression via a lethal epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Based on clinical and in vitro evidence that AKT activation may suppress the lethal EMT response to TGFβ, we are investigating the role of AKT signaling in directly interfering with TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression. We have taken two major approaches: (1) to test the concept that AKT inhibition may reactivate TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression, we are chemically inhibiting AKT in PDA mouse models competent and deficient in TGFβ signaling, and (2) to understand the mechanism of AKT-TGFβ crosstalk in PDA progression, we are performing RNAseq-based gene expression profiling of SMAD4-restored PDA cell lines. We have found that in vitro, AKT signaling determines whether TGFβ induces apoptosis in SMAD4-restored PDA cell lines, and by gene expression analysis, we have identified a group of genes that are differentially regulated by TGFβ in the presence and absence of AKT signaling. Furthermore, we have characterized FOXO immunohistochemical staining as a reliable marker for AKT inhibition status and developed an in vivo system in which we are testing whether AKT inhibition may be a means to reactivate TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression in PDA. Our studies indicate that AKT signaling may alter the outcome of TGFβ-mediated tumor suppression in the pancreas, and our ongoing work is aimed at dissecting the AKT-modulated transcriptional mechanisms that determine the outcome of TGFβ signaling and the consequences of this crosstalk in tumor progression. Citation Format: Yun-Han Huang, Charles David, Joan Massague. AKT activation as a mechanism of escape from TGFβ-mediated lethal EMT. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Developmental Biology and Cancer; Nov 30-Dec 3, 2015; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2016;14(4_Suppl):Abstract nr A30.
Hemodynamic Aspects of Cardiac Failure

The changes in ventricular anatomy and function that occur in heart failure vary according to whether myocardial or mechanical factors, or a combination of the two, predominate. Angiocardiography now permits precise quantification of the hemodynamic effects of existing abnormalities. In this way the clinician has the means to answer such critical questions as whether or not surgery is likely to bring substantial benefits.
Kinetics of primidone metabolism and excretion in children

The metabolism and excretion of orally administered primidone was studied in 12 children, aged 7 to 14 yr during long-term dosing. Plasma concentrations of primidone (Pr) peaked at 4 to 6 hr and declined exponentially from 6 to 24 hr, with half-life (t1/2) values ranging from 4.5 to 11 hr. A mean of 92% (72% to 123%) of the administered dose was recovered within 24 hr from the urine as Pr and its metabolites. Of the total Pr daily dose, 42.3% (15.2% to 65.9%) was recovered as unchanged drug, 45.2% (16.3% to 65.3%) as phenylethylmalonamide (PEMA), and 4.9% (1.1% to 8.0%) as phenobarbital (Pb). The mean rate constant for conversion of Pr to PEMA (K1) was 0.0424 hr-1, for conversion of Pr to Pb (K2) was 0.0045 hr-1, and for excretion of unchanged Pr (K3) was 0.0389 hr-1. Of Pb excreted, 43% (13% to 100%) was unchanged, 15% (0% to 27%) was unconjugated p-OH Pb, 20% (0% to 44%) was conjugated p-OH Pb, and 22% (0% to 33%) was conjugated 3,4-OH Pb. KE appears to be important determinant of the steady-state plasma concentration of Pb, but interindividual differences in K2 have little influence on the overall rate constant for elimination of Pr.
Mix it Up

I am sitting in a downtown cafe with my friend Mike, a functional linguist, trying to explain my attempt at language-based analysis of two songs for this chapter (Fang & Schleppegrell, 2008). Mike is also a teacher and a poet; I can talk with him about mixing disciplines, mixing genres, and making sense of the creative beats thumping in my head. That day, even though Mike told me my language analysis was well done, the most valuable part of our conversation was exactly that: the conversation.
China's Membership in the WTO and Enterprise Reform: The Challenges for Accession and Beyond

Progress in reforming China's state owned enterprises (SOEs) has been a litmus test for assessing the Chinese leadership?s willingness to seek membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). The more extensive the reform of the SOEs, the more resilient they would become to the rigors of the international marketplace and less strain would be placed on China?s economy. By the same token, China's accession to the WTO will spur SOE reform, since the greater external competitive pressure will induce enterprise restructuring. The November 1999 agreement between Chinese and U.S. authorities on terms for China?s WTO accession signals an important commitment by the Chinese to expose their SOEs to more fundamental market discipline and reform. However, even after China becomes a member of the WTO, the effectiveness of its implementation of WTO commitments will turn on continued reform of the SOE sector. This paper sheds light on these challenges by analyzing the incentives and constraints on China's SOE reform program. Four critical aspects of the reforms are highlighted and evaluated against the backdrop of international experience: clarification of property rights; establishment of large group/holding companies and other new organizational structures; improved corporate governance incentives; and implementation of international financial accounting and auditing practices. The paper concludes with policy recommendations.
3-D finite-element simulation model of SAW palladium thin film hydrogen sensor

A 3-dimensional finite element (3D-FE) simulation approach of a SAW palladium thin film hydrogen sensor using ANSYS was investigated. The effect of the palladium thin film on the propagation characteristics of the SAW was studied in the absence and presence of hydrogen. The center frequency of the SAW device was 100 MHz. The simulation results were obtained in terms of displacements and voltage at the output IDT. In addition, the depth profile of the particle movement was obtained in both x and y directions. The 3D representation of the wave propagation on the substrate with the palladium thin film is also shown. The results were obtained using the theoretical perturbation approach in ANSYS. This paper helps in understanding the behaviour of the SAW gas sensor without having to perform the actual fabrication.
Syphilis: an atypical case of sepsis and multiple anogenital lesions in secondary syphilis.

The incidence of syphilis has historically been cyclical in nature, often in relation to the rise and fall of public health initiatives directed toward eradication along with social attitudes toward sexual practices. The incidence of syphilis has increased by 15% in the last 6 years in the United States, with similar increases worldwide. Herein, we present an atypical case of syphilis presenting with severe septic shock and multiple anogenital lesions in an immunocompetent host. A 22-year-old male with no significant past medical history presented with fevers, chills, sore throat, diaphoresis, and diarrhea. He was febrile, tachycardic, hypotensive, and unresponsive to fluid resuscitation requiring short-term vasopressor support. Physical exam revealed diffuse lymphadenopathy; lower extremity macular rash involving the soles of the feet; papular non-pustular lesions on the scrotum; and a 0.5 cm non-tender irregular, healing lesion on the shaft of the penis. Laboratory analysis was significant for leukocytosis and elevated creatinine. Serum screening rapid plasma reagin was positive, and further testing revealed a titer of 1:32, with confirmation via fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test. The patient was diagnosed with secondary syphilis, which was determined to be the underlying etiology of the sepsis as all other serological evaluations were negative. He was treated with penicillin G benzathine 2.4 million units intramuscular and supportive management, with improvement of symptoms. The patient engaged in high-risk sexual behaviors, including prior unprotected sexual contact with males. New research indicates that up to one-third of patients may present with atypical cutaneous manifestations, as demonstrated by this patient. It is important for physicians to familiarize themselves with the varied clinical presentations of syphilis, which include multiple anogenital lesions and tender primary lesions in primary or secondary syphilis. Keywords: acquired syphilis; treponema; sepsis; immunocompetent; men who have sex with men; resurgence; sexually transmitted infections (Published: 26 October 2016) Citation: Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives 2016, 6 : 32495 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/jchimp.v6.32495
A simulated annealing approach to the travelling tournament problem

Automating the scheduling of sport leagues has received considerable attention in recent years. This paper considers the traveling tournament problem (TTP) proposed in [8; 4] to abstract the salient features of major league baseball (MLB) in the United States. It proposes a simulated annealing algorithm (TTSA) for the TTP that produces significant improvements over previous approaches.
Mid-rapidity π±, K− and p¯ spectra and particle ratios from STAR

Abstract Results are presented on π±, K±, and p ¯ transverse mass spectra and particle multiplicity ratios at mid-rapidity in Au+Au collisions at S N N = 130 and 200 GeV and in p+p collisions at √s=200 GeV. Comparisons are made to results from lower energies. The bulk properties of the collision inferred from these results are discussed.
The Plain Dealer and the Home Defender: Nick Chiles, Carry A. Nation, and Smasher’s Mail

In her short-lived newspaper The Smasher's Mail, Carry A. Nation included two accounts of how she began her business relationship with Nick Chiles, owner of the Topeka, Kansas, Plaindealer, newspaper.1 The inaugural issue of Smasher’s Mail in March 1901 said when Nation started her campaign against the saloons of Topeka (called "joints" in the vernacular of 1901), Chiles took a "deep interest in her work." When Nation was taken into custody on a charge of destroying private property and "the so-called Law and Order people" put her in the Shawnee County jail, Nation's former friends deserted her. Nation, a white woman, contacted Chiles, an African American man, to request that he post her bond, and he complied.
Naoki Higashida: The Reason I Jump

This is a book review of the world famous “The reason I jump”, written by an autistic adolescent from Japan. In this book he is putting words to how it is to be a young boy with autism, and why he is the way he is.
Reconstructing the Local Vegetation and Seasonality of the Lower Eocene Blue Rim Site of Southwestern Wyoming Using Fossil Wood

Premise of research. Permineralized wood along with fossil leaves, reproductive structures, and dispersed pollen and spores are preserved in the uppermost Lower Eocene (∼49.0 Ma) Blue Rim escarpment of the Bridger Formation in southwestern Wyoming. Each component of the flora provides a slightly different view of the diversity and environment, but the wood assemblage provides additional information on the taxonomic composition, forest structure, and local seasonality and climate.Methodology. Fossil wood specimens, including occasional in situ stumps, were collected from Bridger strata exposed at Blue Rim, north of Green River, Wyoming. Thin sections in the three standard orientations were prepared of each specimen and examined by light microscopy. Specific gravity and vulnerability index values were calculated for well-preserved specimens. Tree height was estimated from diameter measurements obtained from 10 specimens.Pivotal results. Seven wood types are recognized in the assemblage, including a single s...
Bases That Leave: Consequences of US Base Closures and Realignments in South Korea

ABSTRACTContrary to ample attention on American military base closures at home, the consequences of base closures abroad remain under-examined even as the American military continues to adjust its global force posture. South Korea, the third biggest host of US military bases overseas, is an under-investigated case despite offering useful insights applicable to other US base hosts. This article examines short-term local-level consequences of US base departures in South Korea, with a focus on environmental and redevelopment challenges that shape the political and economic fate of former base sites. Detailed analyses and interviews on the oft-overlooked fate of multiple post-military sites draw a rather unsettling picture: Most sites remain empty, temporarily deserted and heavily contaminated spaces plagued by redevelopment difficulties. When overseas American bases are closed, they leave problems behind and those problems persist long after base sites return to host communities.
Modulation of Phosphocholine Bilayer Structures

Vesicles derived from phosphocolines have been used in the encapsulation, retention and release of biomaterials. Diacetylenic phospholipids in aqueous dispersions are reported to transform into rigid, hollow cylindrical structures (0.5-0.8 pm diameter and length depending on the process) or tubules and helices. Tubules are used in the encapsulation and sustained release of bioactive materials. Synthesis of two diacetylenic phosphocholines, l,2-bis-(9,16-dioxahexacosa-11,13-diynoic)-sn-3-phosphocholine and 1,2-bis(15-oxa-pentacosa-10,12-diynoic)-sn-3-phosphocholine, in which the diacetylene is linked to the acyl chain by an oxygen spacer is reported to modulate the morphology of bilayer structures and to understand the role of diacetylene in lipid-bilayer assembly. Lipid dispersions were characterized by calorimetric and film balance techniques and the structures were visualized by microscopic techniques. When both ends of the diacetylene were linked to the acyl chain by oxygen atoms, vesicles (diameters ranging from 0.3-3.4 pm) were observed. Linking only the terminal portion of the acyl chain to the diacetylene with an oxygen atom resulted in the formation of tubular microstructures with a diameter ranged from 0.4-4.7 pm. Transmission electron micrograph of the replica of freeze fractured dispersion revealed that the tubular structures consist of an aqueous core surrounded by a wall of lipid.
A Quantitative Dot Blot Assay for AAV Titration and Its Use for Functional Assessment of the Adeno-associated Virus Assembly-activating Proteins

While adeno-associated virus (AAV) is widely accepted as an attractive vector for gene therapy, it also serves as a model virus for understanding virus biology. In the latter respect, the recent discovery of a non-structural AAV protein, termed assembly-activating protein (AAP), has shed new light on the processes involved in assembly of the viral capsid VP proteins into a capsid. Although many AAV serotypes require AAP for assembly, we have recently reported that AAV4, 5, and 11 are exceptions to this rule. Furthermore, we demonstrated that AAPs and assembled capsids of different serotypes localize to different subcellular compartments. This unexpected heterogeneity in the biological properties and functional roles of AAPs among different AAV serotypes underscores the importance of studies on AAPs derived from diverse serotypes. This manuscript details a straightforward dot blot assay for AAV quantitation and its application to assess AAP dependency and serotype specificity in capsid assembly. To demonstrate the utility of this dot blot assay, we set out to characterize capsid assembly and AAP dependency of Snake AAV, a previously uncharacterized reptile AAV, as well as AAV5 and AAV9, which have previously been shown to be AAP-independent and AAP-dependent serotypes, respectively. The assay revealed that Snake AAV capsid assembly requires Snake AAP and cannot be promoted by AAPs from AAV5 and AAV9. The assay also showed that, unlike many of the common serotype AAPs that promote heterologous capsid assembly by cross-complementation, Snake AAP does not promote assembly of AAV9 capsids. In addition, we show that the choice of nuclease significantly affects the readout of the dot blot assay, and thus, choosing an optimal enzyme is critical for successful assessment of AAV titers.
To Tip a Waiter--A Problem in Unordered Selections With Repetitions.

Frequently a textbook problem similar to the following is encountered: A diner has exactly five coins in his pocket: a penny, a nickel, a dime, a quarter, and a half-dollar. He wishes to tip a waiter and reaches into his pocket for any three of the five coins. How many different tips or selections of three coins are possible? Utilizing (1) with = 5 and r = 3, one can show that the number of selections is 10; or if the set of coins is designated S = ?I, 5, 10, 25, 50),
Structure-activity relationship model for estrogen receptor ligands.

STRUCTURE-ACTIVITY RELATIONSHIP MODEL FOR ESTROGEN RECEPTOR LIGANDS Huihui Wu November 29,2011 Xenoestrogens are spread throughout the environment affecting our daily lives and may produce potential toxic effects on human health. The purpose of this study was to develop a mechanistically reliable model capable of identifying xenoestrogens. Our hypothesis was that there are identifiable structural characteristics among a diverse set of estrogen receptor ligands that differentiate estrogenic and nonestrogenic compounds. The model's learning set was developed by collecting compounds from the National Center for Toxicological Research Estrogen Receptor Binding database (NCTRER) . The categorical-SAR (cat-SAR) expert system was used to build the models and perform leave-none-out, leave-one-out, leave-many-out and external validations for model analysis. The values of all validations were between 0.80 and 0.97. Based on several analyses of rational subsets of compounds included in the NCTRER based on potency or chemical structure, it was observed that the developed SAR models predictivity varied across sets. This indicates that variability in the SAR models or the in vitro assay results themselves must be considered when applying SAR models for prediction or mechanistic analyses of
On the selection of memoryless adaptive laws for blind equalization in binary communications

We consider the adaptive equalization of an unknown linear time-invariant channel without observations of the input sequence, by updating the impulse response coefficients of the equalizer with the output of the channel times a memoryless nonlinear function of the equalizer output. To date, no such function is known to result in global convergence to the inverse of the channel when the input consists of binary data. The effect of the selection of the memoryless nonlinearity in the convergence properties of the adaptive scheme is studied, and it is shown that for a large class of laws (including the continuous functions), unequalized impulse responses with few nonzero coefficients are points of convergence, and that there exist undesired local minima for a subset of functions that includes those previously proposed.
Anencephaly, Rachischisis, and Encephaloceles

The rather grotesque malformation of anencephaly has been recognized since medieval times; many references to published cases are found in the report of Warren (1951), and the comprehensive review of the literature by Nakano (1973) provides a wealth of specific epidemiological and other information. The frequency of the disease varies between approximately 0.5 and 2.0 per thousand births in the United States and most of Europe; it is locally higher in Britain and lower in Africa, Asia, and South America. Anencephaly may comprise 29.5 percent of all major abnormal births (Coffey and Jessop, 1957). Epidemiologic studies have shown that the variation relates to geography, race, social standing, seasons and many other factors; many of the reported variations in the frequency of anencephaly are concordant with similar variations for spina bifida. Epidemic waves of both lesions have been recorded (Janerich, 1973).
Soviet policy toward the two Koreas, 1985–1991: The new political thinking and power

This research explores the evolution of the Soviet Union’s Korea policy between 1985 and 1991, focusing on the correlation between Gorbachev’s shifting power position within the Soviet leadership and the development of the Soviet Union’s new policy toward the two Koreas. Soviet leaders utilized policy issues (foreign and domestic) to mobilize support in their internal power struggle. Conversely, they needed to establish a firm power base before launching new policies. Thus, power and policy in the Soviet political system often enjoyed a mutually reinforcing relationship, and foreign policy issues became entangled in the domestic political process. As Gorbachev’s power position improved and his reform policy (new political thinking) was refined, Soviet policy toward the two Koreas correspondingly evolved in three phases: (1) Gorbachev rising: the formulation of the new political thinking (March 1985–summer 1988); (2) Gorbachev ascendant: the implementation of new political thinking (fall 1988–summer 1990); and (3) Gorbachev in decline: the continuing momentum of the new policy (fall 1990–December 1991). In late 1990–1991, Soviet Korea policy was characterized by an undisguised tilt toward Seoul. Nevertheless, the Soviets did not consider Soviet relations with the two Koreas to be a zero-sum game. Moscow sought to establish a balanced relationship with both Pyongyang and Seoul, and hoped to play an active role in peace and security on the Korean peninsula.
Molecular Determinants of Substrate Specificity in Human Insulin-Degrading Enzyme.

Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is a 110 kDa chambered zinc metalloendopeptidase that degrades insulin, amyloid β, and other intermediate-sized aggregation prone peptides that adopt β-structures. Structural studies of IDE in complex with multiple physiological substrates have suggested a role for hydrophobic and aromatic residues of the IDE active site in substrate binding and catalysis. Here, we examine functional requirements for conserved hydrophobic and aromatic IDE active site residues that are positioned within 4.5 A of IDE-bound insulin B chain and amyloid β peptides in the reported crystal structures for the respective enzyme-substrate complexes. Charge, size, hydrophobicity, aromaticity, and other functional group requirements for substrate binding IDE active site residues were examined through mutational analysis of the recombinant human enzyme and enzyme kinetic studies conducted using native and fluorogenic derivatives of human insulin and amyloid β peptides. A functional requirement for IDE active site residues F115, A140, F141, Y150, W199, F202, F820, and Y831 was established, and specific contributions of residue charge, size, and hydrophobicity to substrate binding, specificity, and proteolysis were demonstrated. IDE mutant alleles that exhibited enhanced or diminished proteolytic activity toward insulin or amyloid β peptides and derivative substrates were identified.