cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Violating Privacy in Private: How Epic v. DHS Creates an Impossible Burden on Plaintiffs Trying to Demonstrate a Privacy Act Violation

On July 15, 2011, in Electronic Privacy Information Center v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit held that to prove a violation of the Privacy Act, a plaintiff must show evidence of specific conduct. Yet, the current system of Freedom of Information Act exceptions and presumptions makes it exceedingly difficult for a plaintiff to gain access to evidence of specific conduct. Therefore, this Comment argues that these presumptions make it almost impossible for a plaintiff to discover and sue a defense agency for a Privacy Act violation, thereby leaving no realistic opportunity for relief to aggrieved parties.
A theoretical analysis of the electrochemical noise during the induction period of pitting corrosion in passive metals

Abstract It has been demonstrated theoretically that the adsorption/desorption process of halide ions on the surface of a passive metal can cause electrochemical noise during the induction period of pitting corrosion on passive metals. The process was considered by using a model in which the lattice cation of a passive film makes a transitional complex with the halide ions in the solution, followed by local dissolution into the solution. A stochastic analysis was applied to the system, and the distribution function was obtained for the coordination number around the surface cation of the lattice of the passive film. The noise level was determined as the uncertainty of the distribution function for the coordination number. The noise level was rather low when the probability for the formation of the transitional halide complex was high. The noise level increased as the coordination number of halide ions necessary for the formation of the transitional complex increased, or as the activity of the halide ions in the solution decreased. When the van der Waals condition was established concerning the adsorption of halide ions on the passive film, the noise level reached the maximum value.
Purification of the human NF-E2 complex: cDNA cloning of the hematopoietic cell-specific subunit and evidence for an associated partner.

Abstract The human globin locus control region-binding protein, NF-E2, was purified by DNA affinity chromatography. Its tissue-specific component, p45 NF-E2, was cloned by use of a low-stringency library screen with murine p45 NF-E2 cDNA (N. C. Andrews, H. Erdjument-Bromage, M. B. Davidson, P. Tempst, and S. H. Orkin, Nature [London] 362:722-728, 1993). The human p45 NF-E2 gene was localized to chromosome 12q13 by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Human p45 NF-E2 and murine p45 NF-E2 are highly homologous basic region-leucine zipper (bZIP) proteins with identical DNA-binding domains. Immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that p45 NF-E2 is associated in vivo with an 18-kDa protein (p18). Because bZIP proteins bind DNA as dimers, we infer that native NF-E2 must be a heterodimer of 45- and 18-kDa subunits. Although AP-1 and CREB copurified with NF-E2, no evidence was found for heterodimer formation between p45 NF-E2 and proteins other than p18. Thus, p18 appears to be the sole specific partner of p45 NF-E2 in erythroid cells. Cloning of human p45 NF-E2 should permit studies of the role of NF-E2 in globin gene regulation and erythroid differentiation.
Parasitic Interaction of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus with Other Bacteria

Starr, Mortimer P. (University of California, Davis), and Nancy L. Baigent. Parasitic interaction of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus with other bacteria. J. Bacteriol. 91:2006–2017. 1966.—The interactions of the predatory parasite, Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, with Erwinia amylovora, Pseudomonas tabaci, and P. phaseolicola were examined by means of phase-contrast and electron microscopy. Attachment of the bdellovibrio to the host cell is apparently initially reversible; detachment occurs infrequently in the later stages. Formation of a pore in the host cell wall is followed by disorganization of the host nucleus and of the murein layer of the host cell wall. Short host cells become totally spheroplasted; the longer rods of Pseudomonas usually are partially spheroplasted. The parasite completely invades the host cell, and the cell contents of the host are digested. Bdellovibrios living as parasites inside the host increase considerably in size in comparison with those which have been living away from the host for a time. When the host protoplast is entirely lysed, the parasites leave the disintegrating “ghosted” cell envelope, and are ready to reinitiate the parasitic cycle. The time taken for a mature Bdellovibrio cell to complete the parasitic cycle may vary depending on the length of time the parasite has been away from its hosts. Images
Could 5R Research Help Achieve the Triple Aim

Is it possible to meet the standards of the bold research model proposed by Peek et al in this issue of Annals of Family Medicine ?[1][1] And if it is possible, would it be worth the effort and investment required? In their “5R” model, the authors posit that health care delivery research could
Toward regeneration of articular cartilage

Articular cartilage is classified as permanent hyaline cartilage and has significant differences in structure, extracelluar matrix components, gene expression profile, and mechanical property from transient hyaline cartilage found in the epiphyseal growth plate. In the process of synovial joint development, articular cartilage originates from the interzone, developing at the edge of the cartilaginous anlagen, and establishes zonal structure over time and supports smooth movement of the synovial joint through life. The cascade actions of key regulators, such as Wnts, GDF5, Erg, and PTHLH, coordinate sequential steps of articular cartilage formation. Articular chondrocytes are restrictedly controlled not to differentiate into a hypertrophic stage by autocrine and paracrine factors and extracellular matrix microenvironment, but retain potential to undergo hypertrophy. The basal calcified zone of articular cartilage is connected with subchondral bone, but not invaded by blood vessels nor replaced by bone, which is highly contrasted with the growth plate. Articular cartilage has limited regenerative capacity, but likely possesses and potentially uses intrinsic stem cell source in the superficial layer, Ranvier's groove, the intra-articular tissues such as synovium and fat pad, and marrow below the subchondral bone. Considering the biological views on articular cartilage, several important points are raised for regeneration of articular cartilage. We should evaluate the nature of regenerated cartilage as permanent hyaline cartilage and not just hyaline cartilage. We should study how a hypertrophic phenotype of transplanted cells can be lastingly suppressed in regenerating tissue. Furthermore, we should develop the methods and reagents to activate recruitment of intrinsic stem/progenitor cells into the damaged site.
Sovereignty, Territory, and the Mapping of Mobility: A View from the Outside

Theorists within and beyond the discipline of geography increasingly realize that boundaries are not simply lines that enclose and define territories. Boundaries also regulate and are reproduced by...
Predictive Manufacturing System - Trends of Next-Generation Production Systems

With rising competition abroad, US manufacturers are looking to reinvest manufacturing capabilities to counterbalance costs by increasing productivity. Being a dynamic and technologically advanced industry, as well as constantly to meet changing market demands, manufacturers are now forced to evolve strategies to manage larger capacity with faster speed, and more sophisticated machinery systems. This paper discusses the principles of predictive manufacturing system as a strategy to allow manufacturing industry to increase competitiveness through a highly transparent and worry-free manufacturing process, as well as an analytic framework how it can be implemented using a coupled-model approach.
The oral use of the amino-acids of hydrolyzed casein (Amigen) in surgical patients

The amino-acids of hydrolyzed casein (Amigen) have been administered directly into the gastro-in-testinal tract in several types of surgical patients in order to spare the need for protein digestion. Absorption and utilization occurs under circumstances when whole protein is ineffective. The use of Amigen also seems to permit the assimilation of much larger daily amounts of protein nourishment than seems possible when whole protein is given.
Complement deficiencies in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) associated with temperature and seasonal mortality

This study examined serum complement levels in channel catfish from two commercial ponds over a period extending from the winter through the summer months. The fish from one pond (6B) experienced significant fungal associated mortality in the month of January. In March, there was also notable mortality of fish in the same pond; moribund fish exhibited external fungal as well as systemic Aeromonas infections. In July, all fish collected were apparently healthy in that there was no observed mortality. In contrast, the fish from the second pond (16A) were apparently healthy at all sample times except March when there was amild incidence of fungal associated mortality. The results of analyses of haemolytic complement activity showed that representative fish from both ponds had severe complement deficiences during January and March. The haemolytic complement activity continued to be monitored from fish from these ponds into the summer months and the CH 50 values were found to increase to within the normal range. To determine if low water temperature alone induced complement deficiencies, labolatory-acclimated catfish were subjected to a rapid down-shift in water temperature from 23°-11° C during a 24-h period, and the serum CH 50 values were monitored over the following 5 weeks. The results showed that low temperature can significantly affect the ability of catfish to maintain normal levels of haemolytic complement activity; however, these results do not appear to solely explain the abnormally low levels of haemolytic complement found in the serum of catfish during January and March. These results suggest that other factors, in addition to low temperature may have contributed to low CH values observed in the catfish during the winter and spring months. These analyses, in conjunction with other studies, suggest that fungal associated winter mortality and perhaps the subsequent bacterial infections associated with channel catfish during the following spring, are likely manifestations of a severe multifaceted immunodeficiency syndrome wherein complement as well as the humoral and cell-mediated immune systems are compromised.
A cross-national perspective on reentry of high school exchange students

Abstract Set in the context of a historical perspective and recognizing various disciplinary contributions to and rationales for learning about the concept of reentry, this cross-national study looks at the “coming home” experience of high school exchange students in Australia, Ecuador, Norway, and Sweden. Interview and questionnaire data describe how 272 young people feel about coming home and the ways they have shared their experiences, coped with the frustrations of communication such as dealing with stereotypes, and become bridge-builders in their own communities. The author relates the findings to previously described theoretical approaches to reentry, including Kim's theory which is the context for this study, and to questions about whether reentry is problematic, about identity, about the ability to teach others, and about nationality. Finally, implications for research and practice are suggested.
Why teach programming languages in this day and age and how to go about it

The question is not whether a computing curriculum should include a rigorous course on programming languages, but which topics make up the minimum that we wish every student to understand, and how we should teach these topics.
A Case Study of Co-Teaching in an Inclusive Secondary High-Stakes World History I Classroom

Abstract In order to provide increasing support for students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms in high-stakes testing contexts, some schools have implemented co-teaching models. This qualitative case study explores how 1 special education teacher (Anna) and 1 general education history teacher (John) make sense of working together in an inclusive World History I course in a high-stakes testing context (Virginia). Data collected included observations, interviews, curricular materials, and reflective memos. Analysis of these data indicate that John and Anna were “ambitious” collaborators—they offer an exemplary case of a special education teacher and a general education teacher developing a positive and productive working relationship, especially in coordinating their pedagogical performance within the classroom. However, in terms of how they made sense of instruction, it appeared as though Anna, the special educator, elucidated a slightly more ambitious vision in terms of her ability to think about ...
Exploring Physical Health of African Americans: A Social Determinant Model

The objective was to examine the relationships between socioeconomic, structural, community, and individual factors and health outcomes of African Americans in the United States using a modified version of the social determinants of health model in a nationally representative sample of 2,926 non-elderly African American adults. This empirical evidence supports the hypothesis that there is a positive relationship between socioeconomic/structural determinants and health outcomes of African Americans. Results show poor housing and low income contribute to poorer health outcomes; therefore, in order to improve the health outcome, programs are needed that provide their residents with adequate and safe housing and employment. Moreover, local, state, and federal governmental entities need to work together to rebuild and revitalize the housing in African American communities.
Mouse model of human beta zero thalassemia: targeted deletion of the mouse beta maj- and beta min-globin genes in embryonic stem cells

beta zero-Thalassemia is an inherited disorder characterized by the absence of beta-globin polypeptides derived from the affected allele. The molecular basis for this deficiency is a mutation of the adult beta-globin structural gene or cis regulatory elements that control beta-globin gene expression. A mouse model of this disease would enable the testing of therapeutic regimens designed to correct the defect. Here we report a 16-kb deletion that includes both adult beta-like globin genes, beta maj and beta min, in mouse embryonic stem cells. Heterozygous animals derived from the targeted cells are severely anemic with dramatically reduced hemoglobin levels, abnormal red cell morphology, splenomegaly, and markedly increased reticulocyte counts. Homozygous animals die in utero; however, heterozygous mice are fertile and transmit the deleted allele to progeny. The anemic phenotype is completely rescued in progeny derived from mating beta zero-thalassemic animals with transgenic mice expressing high levels of human hemoglobin A. The beta zero-thalassemic mice can be used to test genetic therapies for beta zero-thalassemia and can be bred with transgenic mice expressing high levels of human hemoglobin HbS to produce an improved mouse model of sickle cell disease.
Technique, indications and outcomes of pure laparoscopic right donor nephrectomy.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Laparoscopic nephrectomy for living renal transplantation has emerged as the gold standard. Nevertheless, experience with this technique for procuring right kidneys is limited. We report our single institution results of pure laparoscopic right donor nephrectomy.Materials and Methods: Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy was initiated at the our institution in November 1999. Patient selection was initially limited to the left kidney but right surgery was started 2 years later after 97 operations had been performed. We prospectively acquired data on the donor and recipient, and specifically analyzed outcomes of the right kidneys.Results: In a 40-month period 300 laparoscopic donor operations were performed. Overall 44 procedures (15%) were on the right side with the fraction greater (22%) after removing exclusion of the right kidney from laparoscopic selection criteria. In this cohort mean operative time was 170 minutes, significantly less than the 190 minutes for 50 contemporaneous left kidneys...
White matter fiber compromise contributes differentially to attention and emotion processing impairment in alcoholism, HIV-infection, and their comorbidity

Alcoholism (ALC) and HIV-1 infection (HIV) each affects emotional and attentional processes and integrity of brain white matter fibers likely contributing to functional compromise. The highly prevalent ALC+HIV comorbidity may exacerbate compromise. We used diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and an emotional Stroop Match-to-Sample task in 19 ALC, 16 HIV, 15 ALC+HIV, and 15 control participants to investigate whether disruption of fiber system integrity accounts for compromised attentional and emotional processing. The task required matching a cue color to that of an emotional word with faces appearing between the color cue and the Stroop word in half of the trials. Nonmatched cue-word color pairs assessed selective attention, and face-word pairs assessed emotion. Relative to controls, DTI-based fiber tracking revealed lower inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ilf) integrity in HIV and ALC+HIV and lower uncinate fasciculus (uf) integrity in all three patient groups. Controls exhibited Stroop effects to positive face-word emotion, and greater interference was related to greater callosal, cingulum and ilf integrity. By contrast, HIV showed greater interference from negative Stroop words during color-nonmatch trials, correlating with greater uf compromise. For face trials, ALC and ALC+HIV showed greater Stroop-word interference, correlating with lower cingulate and callosal integrity. Thus, in HIV, conflict resolution was diminished when challenging conditions usurped resources needed to manage interference from negative emotion and to disengage attention from wrongly cued colors (nonmatch). In ALC and ALC+HIV, poorer callosal integrity was related to enhanced emotional interference suggesting curtailed interhemispheric exchange needed between preferentially right-hemispheric emotion and left-hemispheric Stroop-word functions.
Porous TiO2 coating using the solution precursor plasma spray process

Porous titania coatings were deposited from aqueous solution containing titanium isopropoxide using the solution precursor plasma spray (SPPS) process. Effects of plasma power on coating microstructure and phase composition were investigated. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectra analyses indicated that the amount of anatase and rutile phases in the as-sprayed coatings can be adjusted by simply changing the plasma power. With the increase of plasma power, the coating anatase content decreases and the rutile content increases. Scanning electron microscope characterization shows that all of the as-sprayed coatings are very porous.
Tissue engineering for bone regeneration and osseointegration in the oral cavity.

Abstract Objective The focus of this review is to summarize recent advances on regenerative technologies (scaffolding matrices, cell/gene therapy and biologic drug delivery) to promote reconstruction of tooth and dental implant-associated bone defects. Methods An overview of scaffolds developed for application in bone regeneration is presented with an emphasis on identifying the primary criteria required for optimized scaffold design for the purpose of regenerating physiologically functional osseous tissues. Growth factors and other biologics with clinical potential for osteogenesis are examined, with a comprehensive assessment of pre-clinical and clinical studies. Potential novel improvements to current matrix-based delivery platforms for increased control of growth factor spatiotemporal release kinetics are highlighting including recent advancements in stem cell and gene therapy. Results An analysis of existing scaffold materials, their strategic design for tissue regeneration, and use of growth factors for improved bone formation in oral regenerative therapies results in the identification of current limitations and required improvements to continue moving the field of bone tissue engineering forward into the clinical arena. Significance Development of optimized scaffolding matrices for the predictable regeneration of structurally and physiologically functional osseous tissues is still an elusive goal. The introduction of growth factor biologics and cells has the potential to improve the biomimetic properties and regenerative potential of scaffold-based delivery platforms for next-generation patient-specific treatments with greater clinical outcome predictability.
Studies on the mechanism of action of ionizing radiations. VIII. Effect of hydrogen peroxide on cell metabolism, enzymes and proteins

Abstract In acid solutions and in the presence of titanium sulfate, the amount of H 2 O 2 formed on x-irradiation of water was strictly proportional to the x-ray dose, so that the determination of H 2 O 2 could be used to check the calibration of x-ray machines. Hydrogen peroxide formation was depressed on addition of electrolytes; on irradiation of Ringer bicarbonate the amount formed was half that found on irradiation of distilled water. Addition of protein diminished it further. This diminution is attributed to the reaction of O 2 H radicals with the solute; H 2 O 2 had very little effect on a number of substances of biological importance; its effect became more pronounced on addition of Fe ++ ions which give OH radicals. Hydrogen peroxide inhibited partially the metabolism of single cells. However, the inhibition occurred only with concentrations beyond those found on irradiation of biological fluid with lethal doses of x-rays. It is concluded that H 2 O 2 formation has a negligible role in the mechanism of action of ionizing radiations on biological systems.
MEASUREMENTS OF POSITRON-ANNIHILATION RATES ON MOLECULES

Measurements are presented for the annihilation rates of thermalized positrons in a variety of substances, including noble gases, simple inorganic molecules, hydrocarbons, substituted hydrocarbons, and aromatics. The measurements were performed using trapped clouds of room-temperature positrons, into which substances under test were introduced as low-pressure gases, so that only two-body interactions were involved. These data are compared with other values in the literature, and a compilation of annihilation rates is presented. The measuremetns illustrate the importance of both chemical composition and the vibrational modes of excitation of the molecules in determining the annihilation rates. The anomalously high annihilation rates observed for large molecules provide evidence for the existence of long-lived resonances. The nature of these resonances is not yet understood, and the data presented are expected to provide useful constraints for the development of theoretical models.
Travel for treatment: students' perspective on medical tourism

Medical tourism is the act of travelling abroad for health care. The theory of planned behaviour was used to investigate the medical tourism beliefs of 336 undergraduate students in a basic psychology course at a large midwestern American university. Students did not have positive intentions for mere willingness to seek more information about travelling to a developing country to receive medical treatment. An educational intervention is necessary to help promote travel for medical treatment. The intervention may include educating people on the availability of quality health care, highly trained competent doctors and the ability to vacation and see another country. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonpoint source pollution control effectiveness of riparian forests along a coastal plain river

Abstract A detention-time model of water quality buffer zones is used to evaluate the nonpoint source pollution control effectiveness of riparian forests in a two-county area of the lower Tar River basin, North Carolina. Soil map units, which represent specific combinations of soil, topography, and vegetation characteristics, are compared in terms of their relative ability to filter nitrate in agricultural runoff. All typical riparian forests provide significant water quality protection, but there is a wide variation in buffer effectiveness. This suggests a need for flexibility in determining buffer widths. A range of 15–80 m is appropriate for the soil-landform-vegetation complexes found in riparian zones within the study area. Buffer widths of 60 m — and often much less — are generally adequate on the soils likely to be used for agricultural production.
An hepatic inhibitor of activated clotting factor X (Stuart)

Abstract We have recently reported (1) that the perfused liver rapidly removes activated blood clotting factor X (Stuart) from the perfusing medium, but that precursor or inactive factor X was unaffected by hepatic perfusion. In the present study we have examined the ability of cell-free preparations of liver to attenuate activated factor X.
Catchability coefficients for coastal fishes caught in 366-meter and 732-meter long trammel nets struck with noise and rotenone

Catchability coefficients (q) of 366-m and 732-m trammel nets set along the shore in a rectangular shape were determined for selected fish species, utilizing noise and sublethal rotenone strike methods. Catachbility coefficients ranged from 0 to 1 for both trammel nets; 65% and 75% of the values for the 366-m and 732-m nets, respectively, were less than 0.1. Only the perpendicular strike method may have affected the catch efficiency of the nets, but the effect was not consistent among all species. Catchability coefficients were slightly higher when fish too small to be caught in the net were removed from the calculations. Despite the wide range of catchability coefficients among species, trammel nets struck with noise can be used to detect gross changes in abundance (standing stock) of many estuarine fishes. Increases in trammel net efficiency may be obtained by improvement in striking techniques or changes in net design, such as use of less visible monofilament webbing.
Floquet theory for the stability of boundary layer flows

Abstract A Floquet theory is presented for the stability of boundary layer flows. The spectrum of the governing differential operator is partially discrete and partially continuous, which is different from confined flows. However, no instabilities appear from the continuous part of the spectrum.
Optimizing the Health of Infants and Children: Their Oral Health Counts!

Tooth decay and poor oral health are the most common chronic health conditions in children in the United States today. This article discusses the significance of dental caries in children, the importance of oral health promotion, barriers to providing and obtaining oral health care, and current recommendations for practice. This article also recommends strategies for the promotion of optimal oral health in children and adolescents through screening, triaging, education, and tracking.
Sodium Chloride Effect on Autoxidation of the Lard Component of a Gel

SUMMARY: Stable gels composed of lard, sodium carbomethoxy cellulose and water were used for the examination of factors involved in the pro- and antioxidant activities of sodium chloride, other inorganic salts, heme compounds, meat fractions and other additives. Autoxidation processes were evaluated by peroxide and monocarbonyl determinations. The solid translucent gels, in which additives had been incorporated, were stored frozen, freeze-dried or allowed to oxidize without physical change. The hydrated gels were well aerated in preparation and oxidized in the dark at a convenient pace at 20°C. When the gel was freeze-dried, a sponge-like structure was obtained which, after an induction period, autoxidized rapidly. Freezer-stored gels autoxidized at a rate roughly similar to freezer-stored meat. Sodium chloride had a direct pro-oxidant action on the lard of freezer-stored and dehydrated gels. Hydrated gels containing NaCl when stored at 20°C had an inhibiting autoxidation pattern somewhat similar to the quantitative influence of NaCl on pH. Ethylene-diaminetetraacetate (EDJA) had a powerful antioxidant influence. Sodium chloride accelerated heme catalysis regardless of the presence of antioxidant or chelator. Interesting differences in monocarbonyl patterns and monocarbonyl/peroxide ratios as influenced by additives and moisture content of the gels were observed.
Effects of oral administration of malathion on the course of disease in MRL-lpr mice.

Abstract Malathion administration at non-cholinergical doses was shown to elevate macrophage, proliferative and humoral immune responses. This study examined the effects of malathion on autoimmunity, autoantibody formation, macrophage function and mitogenic responses in MRL-lpr mice (genetically predisposed to autoimmune disease) and MRL-+/+ mice. Malathion, 33–300mg/kg, was administered by gavage once per week, beginning at 6 weeks of age. At 300mg/kg in MRL-lpr mice, malathion administration accelerated the appearance of significant (>100mg/l) levels of urinary protein by approximately 3 weeks and increased the maximum level of protein detected. Increased urinary protein was delayed at lower doses of malathion, but was elevated compared to vehicle control. This increase in urinary protein was not observed in the group of MRL-+/+ mice. The popliteal and axillary lymph nodes (LN) were larger in malathion-treated (>33mg/kg) than in control mice at 19 weeks of age. Within the same time-frame in MRL-+/+ mice, malathion did not affect and increased the size of the axillary and popliteal LN, respectively. Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-DNA (dsDNA) antibodies in the serum were not elevated in any group of MRL-+/+ mice by 19 weeks of age. However, in the MRL-lpr mice, weekly malathion treatment (>33mg/kg) elevated the level of serum RF at 12 and 19 weeks of age. Malathion treatment (>100mg/kg) also increased the level of anti-dsDNA antibodies in the serum of MRL-lpr mice at 19 weeks of age. Malathion treatment increased the number of inflamed glomeruli. Histopathological analysis of various organs showed no effect on vasculitis after malathion treatment. Acute administration of 300mg/kg malathion to 6-week-old mice elevated the secretion of nitric oxide by peritoneal macrophages, but did not affect the secretion of tumor necrosis factor. In addition, the basal and mitogen-induced proliferation of splenocytes of malathion-treated MRL-lpr mice were elevated, but the stimulation index was unchanged.
Systematic synthesis of mixed-metal oxides in NiO–Co3O4, NiO–MoO3, and NiO–CuO systems via liquid-feed flame spray pyrolysis

We report here on the systematic synthesis of three nanopowder series along the NiO–Co3O4, NiO–MoO3, and NiO–CuO tie lines. Sixteen individual samples were produced via liquid-feed flame spray pyrolysis (LF-FSP) and analyzed by SSA, SEM, EDX, FTIR, TGA-DTA, and XRD. The LF-FSP process is a general aerosol combustion synthesis route to a wide range of lightly agglomerated oxide nanopowders. The materials reported here were produced by aerosolizing ethanol solutions of propionate and ammonium molybdate precursors synthesized by reacting the metal nitrate with propionic acid. Particular ratios of the precursors were selected to control the compositions of the samples produced. The powders typically consist of single crystal particles <35 nm in diameter and with specific surface areas (SSAs) of 20–50 m2 g−1. X-Ray powder diffraction (XRD) studies show a gradual change in their patterns from pure NiO to pure MOx (M = Co, Mo, Cu). Most compositions yielded single phase materials but mixed phase materials were also detected. We believe that higher vapor pressures of the ions produced for the transition metals studied resulted in SSAs about a third lower than those measured typically in nanopowders containing NiO. The partial pressure of O2 in LF-FSP affects the formation of particular oxide phases and controls to a certain degree the morphologies of the as-produced materials. We observe in the NiO–MoO3 system preferential growth of certain crystallographic planes in MoO3, due to the relatively high vapor pressure of MoOx species. Unusual particle morphologies seen in the NiO–Co3O4 system are attributed to some phase separation in the as-produced materials. TGA studies combined with diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopic studies indicate that both physi- and chemi-sorbed H2O are the principal surface species present in the as-processed nanopowders.
Early and long-term results of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in patients 70 years of age and older with angina pectoris.

Abstract Patients more than 70 years old constitute a growing segment of our population. Although older patients with coronary artery disease are in general treated conservatively, of >200,000 coronary bypass operations performed in the US in 1984, 36% were in patients 65 years of age or older. 1 Most coronary surgery studies recognize that advanced age is associated with increased mortality. 2–5 Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), a less invasive procedure, appears particularly attractive as a therapeutic alternative in the elderly. This report evaluates early and late results of PTCA in patients 70 years or older and investigates whether PTCA can be carried out with similar results in patients with stable and unstable angina.
A knowledge-based computer environment for the conceptual design of small electromechanical appliances

A knowledge-based computer environment that supports the concurrent engineering of small electromechanical appliances such as kitchen appliances and lighting is described. The environment integrates and provides active assistance for the following engineering activities: specification acquisition, conceptual design and redesign, and qualitative simulation. The design environment is examined by reviewing the steps in a redesign sequence that transforms a manual juicer into an electric juicer. >
Open fractures of the tibia treated by immediate intramedullary tibial nail insertion without reaming: a prospective study.

Objective:Does immediate tibial nail insertion without reaming as part of protocol-driven management provide a safe and effective treatment for open tibia fractures?Study Design:Prospective cohort.Setting:Level 1 trauma center.Patients:A consecutive series of 161 patients with Gustilo grade I-IIIb o
Responses by iron-efficient and inefficient oat cultivars to inoculation with siderophore-producing bacteria in a calcareous soil.

Rhizosphere bacteria may enhance plant uptake of Fe by producing siderophores that chelate sparingly soluble Fe3+ in calcareous soils. To evaluate the extent to which plants benefit from colonization of the roots by prolific siderophore-producing bacteria, we inoculated two oat cultivars with six strains of bacteria that produced high concentrations of siderophores under Felimiting conditions in vitro. Oat cv Coker 227, an Fe-efficient cultivar, which produces the phytosiderophore avenic acid, and cv TAM 0-312, and Fe-inefficient cultivar, which does not produce the phytosiderophore, were grown in a calcareous soil (Weswood silt loam) on a light bench in the laboratory. Half of the plants were fertilized with a nutrient solution containing 5 mM Fe and half with a nutrient solution containing no Fe. After 6 weeks of growth, we compared colonization of the roots by the inoculant bacteria and the dry weight and Fe content of roots and shoots. Three species of Pseudomonas colonized the roots of both oat cultivars in high numbers (≥106 cells g-1 root dry weight), whereas the remaining bacteria colonized the roots in substantially lower numbers (≤104 cells g-1 root dry weight). Plants fertilized with 5 mM Fe were larger and supported greater numbers or rhizosphere bacteria per gram of root than plants not supplied with Fe. Comparisons of the Fe content and dry weight of roots and shoots revealed few significant differences between inoculated and uninoculated plants, or among the plants inoculated with the different strains of siderophore-producing bacteria. The differences that were observed revealed no consistent response to inoculation. We conclude that inoculation of the roots of the two oat cultivars with bacteria that produce high concentrations of siderophores in response to an Fe deficiency had little or no effect on Fe acquisition by the plants.
Cocaine and HIV-1 Interplay: Molecular Mechanisms of Action and Addiction

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is now being driven by drug-abusing populations. Epidemiological studies on drug abusers with AIDS link abuse of cocaine, even more than other drugs, to increased incidence of HIV seroprevalence and progression to AIDS. Both cell culture and animal studies demonstrate that cocaine can both potentiate HIV replication and can potentiate HIV proteins to cause enhanced glial cell activation, neurotoxicity, and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Based on the ability of both HIV proteins and cocaine to modulate NMDA receptor on neurons, NMDA receptors have been suggested as a common link underlying the crosstalk between drug addiction and HIV infection. While the role of dopamine system as a major target of cocaine cannot be overlooked, recent studies on the role of sigma receptors in mediating the effects of cocaine in both cell and organ systems warrants a deeper understanding of their functional role in the field. In this review, recent findings on the interplay of HIV infection and cocaine abuse and their possible implications in mode of action and/or addiction will be discussed.
Different axoplasmic proteins generate movement in opposite directions along microtubules in vitro

Single microtubules from squid axoplasm support bidirectional movement of organelles. We previously purified a microtubule translocator (kinesin) that moves latex beads in only one direction along microtubules. In this study, a polar array of microtubules assembled off of centrosomes in vitro was used to demonstrate that kinesin moves latex beads from the minus to the plus ends of microtubules, a direction that corresponds to anterograde transport in the axon. A crude solubilized fraction from squid axoplasm (S1a), however, generates bidirectional movement of beads along microtubules. Retrograde bead movement (1.4 micron/sec) is inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide and 20 microM vanadate while anterograde movement (0.6 micron/sec) is unaffected by these agents. Furthermore, a monoclonal antibody against kinesin, when coupled to Sepharose, removes the anterograde, but not the retrograde, bead translocator from S1a. These results indicate that there is a retrograde bead translocator which is pharmacologically and immunologically distinct from kinesin.
Structure of the nucleocapsid protein gene of sonchus yellow net virus.

Abstract The structure of the gene adjacent to the “leader RNA” gene of sonchus yellow net virus (SYNV), a plant rhabdovirus, was deduced by dideoxyribonucleotide sequence analysis of SYNV genomic (g) RNA and a series of plasmids constructed from SYNV gRNA or polyadenylated [poly(A) + ] RNA from SYNV-infected plants. Evidence that this gene encodes the nucleocapsid (N) protein was obtained by reaction of SYNV N protein with polyclonal antibodies raised against recombinant proteins derived from the cloned gene. Experiments in which defined oligodeoxyribonucleotides were used to initiate reverse transcription of poly(A) + RNA from SYNV-infected tobacco revealed that the N protein messenger (m) RNA gene begins at position 147 from the 3′ end of the SYNV genome. Inspection of the sequence shows that this mRNA has a 56 nucleotide (NT) untranslated region followed by a 1425 NT open reading frame that is terminated by tandem UAA stop codons at positions 1628 to 1633 relative to the 3′ end of SYNV gRNA. Little direct sequence homology is evident between the 475 amino acid polypeptide predicted from the SYNV sequence and the nucleocapsid (N) proteins deduced from nucleotide sequences of the Indiana and New Jersey serotypes of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and rabies virus. However, a short region of possible importance contains a small group of chemically similar amino acids common to all four N proteins.
A study of culturally syntonic variables in the bilingual/bicultural science classroom

The purpose of this study was to conduct a needs assessment of bilingual/bicultural elementary science classrooms in order to determine if the current instructional environment addresses the educational needs of Hispanic/Latino children. This study examined 57 randomly selected elementary bilingual/bicultural science classrooms in a large metropolitan area of the southwestern United States in terms of culturally syntonic variables (i.e., culture-of-origin beliefs and/or practices that impact the teaching/learning process). Findings from this study indicate that Hispanic/Latino children are receiving science instruction: (a) with culturally asyntonic printed materials, teaching strategies, and supplementary materials, (b) in classrooms that do not use the child's native language, familia learning groups, peer tutoring, or manipulative materials, and (c) with oral and verbal instruction that lack culturally syntonic role models, examples, analogies, and elaborations. Findings from this study imply that changes are needed in pre-service and in-service teacher training, in science textbook formats, and in the scope and focus of elementary school bilingual/bicultural science curriculum and instructional strategies.
Role of band-tail carriers in metastable defect formation and annealing in hydrogenated amorphous silicon

This paper presents results on annealing of carrier-induced metastable defects in hydrogenated amorphous silicon ({ital a}-Si:H) and on the dependence of the defect kinetics on carrier density. The metastable defects were studied by measuring the threshold-voltage shifts on capacitors as a function of time, temperature, and bias. The defect generation and annealing exhibit stretched-exponential-like behavior where the characteristic time for defect generation is a function of carrier density. The ratio of carrier density to defects in equilibrium are determined to be approximately 0.1, the same ratio found in doped {ital a}-Si:H. The results are consistent with dispersive hydrogen motion through an exponential distribution of barrier heights. The hopping rate and the final-state energy depend on the carrier density. This dependence on carrier density explains the carrier-, light-, and doping-induced defect formation in {ital a}-Si:H. The increase of the hopping rate due to carriers accounts for the increase in the hydrogen-diffusion rate in doped material. While much of the data are consistent with a single-hop model, the lack of correlation between generation and annealing rates indicates that defect formation occurs by multiple hopping.
Distribution of Wheel Drive/Brake Torque Using Non-Linear Predictive Control to Enhance Vehicle Handling

Wheel torque control is an effective means of improving vehicle handling and stability. Brake-based electronic stability programs which intervene in extreme situations to regulate vehicle behavior are the most common form of wheel torque control. With the advent of advanced driveline technologies, wheel torque control can also be achieved by the differential distribution of available drive torque to all four wheels. Similarly, in combined cornering and braking maneuvers, the applied brake input can be differentially distributed to regulate vehicle handling. This paper proposes an integrated scheme for wheel torque control that combines differential drive/brake torque distribution with the emergency braking control to regulate the vehicle yaw rate and side slip angle. A wheel torque controller was developed using a non-linear predictive control theory, 8 degree of freedom vehicle model, and nonlinear tires. The simulated vehicle responses show improved vehicle handling performance.© 2006 ASME
X-linked hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase deficiency: Detection of heterozygotes by selective medium

Skin fibroblasts from five unrelated males with X-linked hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase deficiency and from their families have been exposed to medium containing 6-thioguanine. This purine analogue selects against cells with normal hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase activity and therefore permits detection of mutant cells in heterozygous populations. The results of these studies are compared to those obtained by autoradiography of single-cell clones of skin fibroblasts from the same subjects. In each case, the results of the selective method are similar to those obtained by clonal analysis. The use of selective medium therefore provides a sensitive means to detect heterozygosity at this locus and may provide a general method to select cells with X-linked markers from heterozygous populations.
The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor

In this review, we have described the functional properties and regulation of the InsP3R. Not all aspects of InsP3R function and regulation were covered, the main focus was on the most recent and physiologically important data. Information about the structure, heterogeneity, functional properties, and regulation of the InsP3R is useful for understanding the spatiotemporal aspects of Ca signaling. The combination of biochemical, biophysical and molecular biological techniques has revealed the intricacies of the InsP3R over the past decade. However, questions about the functional differences between various isoforms and splice variants of the InsP3R, the structural determinants responsible for regulation of InsP3R by Ca and ATP, the functional effects of InsP3R phosphorylation and many others remain to be elucidated. Future investigations can be expected to provide answers to these important questions.
The origins of neoliberalism between Soviet socialism and Western capitalism: “A galaxy without borders”

Scholars have argued that transnational networks of right-wing economists and activists caused the worldwide embrace of neoliberalism. Using the case of an Italian think tank, CESES, associated with these networks, the author shows that the origins of neoliberalism were not in hegemony but in liminality. At CESES, the Italian and American right sought to convert Italians to free market values by showing them how Soviet socialism worked. However, CESES was created in liminal spaces that opened up within and between Soviet socialism and Western capitalism after the death of Joseph Stalin in 1953. Scholars from East and West at CESES developed new knowledge about actually existing socialism, which, due to the shifting context of the Cold War, seemed to provoke left-wing sympathies among the scholars and the students involved. CESES in fact required left-wing scholars, who had necessary skills and a fascination with a common project of democratic or market socialism, to create this new knowledge. The new knowledge that developed out of an East–West dialogue not only helped right-wing transnational networks to reorient their hegemonic projects, but also helped those on the left to understand actually existing socialism and what socialism might become. This knowledge could not be obtained without this dialogue and had to travel through liminal spaces.