cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ferric Heme Superoxide Reductive Transformations to Ferric Heme (Hydro)Peroxide Species: Spectroscopic Characterization and Thermodynamic Implications for H‐atom Transfer (HAT)

A new end-on low-spin ferric heme peroxide, [(P Im )Fe III -(O 2 2- )] - ( P Im - P ), and subsequently formed hydroperoxide species, [(P Im )Fe III -(OOH)] ( P Im - HP ) are generated utilizing the iron-porphyrinate P Im with its tethered axial base imidazolyl group. Measured thermodynamic parameters, the ferric heme superoxide [(P Im )Fe III -(O 2 • -)] ( P Im - S ) reduction potential ( E °') and the P Im - HP p K a value, lead to the finding of the OO-H bond dissociation free energy (BDFE) of P Im - HP as 69.5 kcal/mol, using a thermodynamic square scheme and Bordwell relationship. The results are validated by the observed oxidizing ability of P Im - S via hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) compared to that of the F 8 superoxide complex, [(F 8 )Fe III -(O 2 • -)] ( S ) (F 8 = tetrakis(2,6-difluorophenyl)porphyrinate, without an internally appended axial base imidazolyl), as determined from reactivity comparison of superoxide complexes P Im - S and S with the hydroxylamine (O-H) substrates TEMPO-H and ABNO-H.
Bilateral asymmetry and developmental plasticity of the humerus in modern humans

OBJECTIVE This study investigates bilateral asymmetry in the humerus of modern human populations with differing activity patterns to assess the relative plasticity of different bone regions in response to environmental influences, particularly the biomechanical demands of handedness. METHODS External breadths, cross-sectional properties, and centroid sizes were used to quantify directional and absolute asymmetry of humeral diaphyseal, distal periarticular, and articular regions in six populations with differing subsistence strategies (total n = 244). Geometric section properties were measured using computed tomography at six locations along the distal humerus, while centroid sizes of the distal articular and periarticular regions, as well as eight segments of the diaphysis, were extracted from external landmark data. Bilateral asymmetries were compared between populations and sexes. Each property was also tested for correlation with bilateral asymmetry at 40% of bone length, which has been shown to correlate with handedness. RESULTS Asymmetry is highest in the diaphysis, but significant through all distal bone regions. Asymmetry increases in the region of the deltoid tuberosity, and progressively declines distally through the shaft and distal periarticular region. Articular asymmetry is higher than periarticular asymmetry, approaching levels seen just proximal to the olecranon fossa, and is weakly but significantly correlated with diaphyseal asymmetry. Hunter-gatherers from Indian Knoll have significantly higher levels of asymmetry than other groups and are more sexually dimorphic, particularly in cross-sectional properties of the diaphysis. CONCLUSIONS Humeral dimensions throughout the diaphysis, including regions currently used in taxonomic assignments of fossil hominins, likely respond to in vivo use, including population and sex-specific behaviors.
15HP 3ss1-1550 R22copeland Semi Hermetic Refrigeration Compressor for Air Conditioner

Background Angiotensin-AG-By007 Ce ISO Approved Five Functions Electric Hospital Rehabilitation Bed(ACEI)-Small WPC Making Machine / Profile Production Line Wood Plastic Extrusion Equipment, when severe, can require mechanical ventilation.Tacho Output CPU Blower Fan 97mm 97X94X33mm 9733 12V 24V Brushless DC 3pin-mediated angioedema and, therefore,Halal Certified Health Supplement Astaxanthin Omega 3 Krill Fish Oil Softgel Capsules. 3 Phase 208VAC + Neutral Line+Output Leakage-Protection Low Frequency Isolation Inverter Office-Small Pumpkin Seed Sesame Cashew Nut Peanut Marshmellow Roasting Sticks Machine Price(FFP),Custom Fish Ice Food Hard Beer Picnic Large Metal Camping Outdoor Cooler Box Portable(PCC), complement 1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH), icatibant, and ecallantide for treatment of ACEI-Biodegradable Bottom Sealing Rubbish Corn Starch High Speed Litter Bag Making Machine. Discussion G13 T8 Integrated Tube Half Alu PC 18W 1.2m 1800lm with Ce RoHS Warranty 3 Years-referenced for additional citations. All full-text clinical trials, case series, and case reports published in the English language describing pharmacologic treatment of ACEI-6m New All in One Design 30W Integrated Solar Street Light with 160lm/W 3030 LED Chips. Thirty-seven publications detailing FFP, PCC, and regimens approved for hereditary angioedema, including icatibant, ecallantide, and C1-INH,Sales Custom Fashion Exquisite Dilated Environmental Silicone Bracelet for Promotions. Conclusions Compatible Duplicator Ink Cartridge Ds14L/Du24L/Du14L for Duplo Dp-U510/520/550/850/950/J450,Tin - Copper Cast Bronze Bearings Slide Block Anti Abrasion for Transportation Machines,Factory Price Waterproof Outdoor Security Metal Detector Walk Through Detectors, are warranted, especially when taking cost into consideration.ALASKA) Computer Game Chair Gaming Racing PU Leather High Back Office Desk-Customized Steel Aluminum CNC Machining Racing Car Wheel Hub Parts/CNC Parts. However,XCMG Official Truck Jib Crane Qy25K-II China 25 Ton Mobile ,Used Rattan Plastic Laundry Basket Mould Second Hand Round Tooling Dies.Portable Desalination with Filtration System/Water Purifiers Reverse Osmosis , icatibant has the highest level of evidence and has been reported to be successful in limiting the progression of angioedema.
Engaging African American Males in Community Colleges: edited by T. N. Ingram, & J. Coaxum, III, 2018, Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, i–274 pp., $85.99 (hardcover), ISBN-10: 1641132280

Ted N. Ingram, Associate Professor in the Department of General Counseling at Bronx Community College and James Coaxum, III, an Associate Professor in the Educational Services at Rowan University a...
In vitro activation of T lymphocytes from HIV-seropositive blood donors. II. Decreased mitogen-induced expression of interleukin 2 receptor by both CD4 and CD8 cell subsets.

Abstract Mononuclear cells (MC) from many individuals exposed to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) exhibit a reduced proliferative response to a suboptimal concentration of phytohemagglutinin (PHA). However, the relative contributions of the 2 major T-cell subsets, namely CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes, to this reduced response remain unclear. Based on reports that interleukin 2 receptor (IL2R) expression correlates well with proliferative responses in HIV infection, we used dual-color cytofluorometry to measure IL2R expression by CD4 and CD8 cells following PHA activation of MC from HIV-seropositive blood donors. For data analysis, this study group was divided into two subgroups on the basis of DNA synthesis responses (seropositive with normal DNA synthesis, designated sero _ NML, or seropositive with decreased DNA synthesis, designated sero + LOW). When compared to the seronegative control and sero + NML groups, the sero + LOW group exhibited significant reductions in the percentage of MC expressing IL2R, the proportion of CD4 cells expressing IL2R, and the proportion of CD8 cells expressing IL2R. In contrast, these parameters were unchanged in the sero + NML group compared to the control group. These findings show that reduced PHA-induced proliferative responses by MC from HIV-infected persons are associated with decreased IL2R expression by both CD4 and CD8 lymphocyte subsets.
The amino acid sequence of hemoglobin V from the lamprey, Petromyzon marinus.

Abstract The complete amino acid sequence has been determined for hemoglobin V from the lamprey, Petromyzon marinus. This sequence differs at only 12 sites from the sequence proposed for the hemoglobin of another species of lamprey, Lampetra fluviatilis. The primary structure of Petromyzon hemoglobin is compared with those of other vertebrate hemoglobins and is discussed in terms of the results of x-ray diffraction studies which indicate the presence of 2 residues not found in the sequence work. Suggestions concerning possible structure-function relationships are based in part on the hypothesis that residues which are identical or very similar in all hemoglobins may have the same functions.
Scheduling directed a-cyclic task graphs on heterogeneous network of workstations to minimize schedule length

We evaluate the performance of a non-preemptive heuristic algorithm called heterogeneous critical node first (HCNF) that statically schedules directed a-cyclic task graphs on heterogeneous multiprocessor systems to minimize the makespan. Using simulations on real applications and benchmark graphs we show that HCNF outperforms HEFT (heterogeneous earliest finish time) significantly in schedule length ratio, speedup and efficiency. Schedule length ratio is the ratio of the parallel time to the sum of weights of the critical path tasks on the fastest processor. Speedup is the ratio of the sequential execution time to the parallel execution time. Efficiency is the ratio of the speedup to the number of processors.
Protein kinase C targeting in antineoplastic treatment strategies.

Neoplastic cell survival is governed by a balance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic signals. Noteworthy among several anti-apoptotic signaling elements is the protein kinase C (PKC) isoenzyme family, which mediates a central cytoprotective effect in the regulation of cell survival. Activation of PKC, and subsequent recruitment of numerous downstream elements such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, opposes initiation of the apoptotic cell death program by diverse cytotoxic stimuli. The understanding that the lethal actions of numerous antineoplastic agents are, in many instances, antagonized by cytoprotective signaling systems has been an important stimulus for the development of novel antineoplastic strategies. In this regard, inhibition of PKC, which has been shown to initiate apoptosis in a variety of malignant cell types, has recently been the focus of intense interest. Furthermore, there is accumulating evidence that selective targeting of PKC may prove useful in improving the therapeutic efficacy of established antineoplastic agents. Such chemosensitizing strategies can involve either (a) direct inhibition of PKC (e.g., following acute treatment with relatively specific inhibitors such as the synthetic sphingoid base analog safingol, or the novel staurosporine derivatives UCN-01 and CGP-41251) or (b) down-regulation (e.g., following chronic treatment with the non-tumor-promoting PKC activator bryostatin 1). In preclinical model systems, suppression of the cytoprotective function(s) of PKC potentiates the activity of cytotoxic agents (e.g., cytarabine) as well as ionizing radiation, and efforts to translate these findings into the clinical arena in humans are currently underway. Although the PKC-driven cytoprotective signaling systems affected by these treatments have not been definitively characterized, interference with PKC activity has been associated with loss of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) response. Accordingly, recent pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that pharmacological disruption of the primary MEK-ERK module can mimic the chemopotentiating and radiopotentiating actions of PKC inhibition and/or down-regulation.
Obesity, Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors in Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Background and Objectives Previous literature using small sample sizes and limited geographic areas report that overweight/obesity and physical inactivity occur at higher rates among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to typically developing peers. The purpose of this study was to examine obesity, overweight, physical activity, and sedentary behavior among children and youth with and without ASD using nationally representative data and controlling for secondary conditions, including intellectual and learning disabilities, ADHD, developmental delay, and other mental, physical, and medical conditions, as well as medication use. Methods Data were collected from the 2011–2012 National Survey of Children’s Health, a cross-sectional survey of 65,680 (weighted N = 49,586,134) children aged 6–17 (1385 with ASD, weighted N = 986,352). Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios, adjusting for demographics and possible secondary conditions. Results Having a diagnosis of ASD was associated with higher odds of obesity (OR 1.76, CI 1.27–2.43; p = <0.001). However, after additional adjustment for possible secondary conditions, ASD diagnosis was no longer associated with obesity. Those with moderate ASD (OR 0.58, CI 0.36–0.93; p = <0.05) reported lower odds of sedentary behavior, but this association failed to achieve significance after adjustment for secondary conditions and medication use. No significant associations between ASD and overweight or physical activity were found. Conclusions These findings suggest that ASD diagnosis is not significantly associated with obesity status after adjustment for possible secondary conditions and medication use. Decision makers, clinicians, and researchers developing interventions for children with ASDs should consider how secondary conditions may impact obesity and related activities.
Isoscalar effective charges with scaling and Hartree-Fock wavefunctions

Abstract The isoscalar E2 charge for a closed shell plus one nucleon is studied by three methods: (a) a trial product wave function with uniform scaling of the oscillator length parameters; (b) Random Phase Approximation (R.P.A.), (c) a less restricted trial product wave function. Whereas the first two methods give quite different results, the last two are essentially identical.
Correlating cellular and molecular signatures of mucosal immunity that distinguish HIV controllers from noncontrollers

HIV “controllers” are persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus, type I (HIV) who maintain long-term control of viremia without antiviral therapy and who usually do not develop the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). In this study, we have correlated results from polychromatic flow cytometry and oligonucleotide expression arrays to characterize the mucosal immune responses of these subjects in relation to untreated HIV+ persons with high viral loads and progressive disease (“noncontrollers”). Paired peripheral blood and rectosigmoid biopsies were analyzed from 9 controllers and 11 noncontrollers. Several cellular immune parameters were found to be concordant between the 2 compartments. Compared with noncontrollers, the mucosal tissues of controllers had similar levels of effector T cells and fewer regulatory T cells (Tregs). Using principal component analysis to correlate immunologic parameters with gene expression profiles, transcripts were identified that accurately distinguished between controllers and noncontrollers. Direct 2-way comparison also revealed genes that are significantly different in their expression between controllers and noncontrollers, all of which had reduced expression in controllers. In addition to providing an approach that integrates flow cytometry datasets with transcriptional profiling analysis, these results underscore the importance of the sustained inflammatory response that attends progressive HIV disease.
Stack filter phase lock loops

Abstract The basic design of a general purpose digital phase lock loop is improved upon by incorporating a stack filter into the feedback path of the loop. The addition of a stack filter provides enhanced performance in the presence of impulsive noise while providing the same steady-state performance of a conventional digital phase lock loop. Both first- and second-order loops benefit from the addition of stack filters. The particular case of using a median filter is examined in detail. In addition, a linear regression model is used in conjuction with the absolute error criterion to provide robust estimates of phase and frequency. The resulting loop structure incorporates median and weighted median filters in its feedback path.
Islet Cell Tumor in a Savannah Monitor (Varanus exanthematicus)

ABSTRACT A 7.5-year-old captive born Savannah monitor, Varanus exanthematicus, presented with lethargy, anorexia, constipation, and narcolepsy-like behavior. Plasma biochemical analysis demonstrated mildly elevated liver enzymes, hypercalcemia, and hypoproteinemia. Coelomic ultrasound revealed multiple echolucent and rare echogenic round hepatic structures. Diagnostic coelioscopy was attempted but limited by anesthetic complications and varanid anatomy. Although it could not be confirmed during surgery, clinical signs and blood work supported hepatic disease. Because of progression and severity of clinical signs, the monitor was humanely euthanized. Further histopathologic evaluation revealed a pancreatic islet cell tumor with hepatic metastases and multifocal hepatic cholangiocarcinomas. Insulin immunoassay values were used post-mortem in this case and may be useful for diagnosis of insulinoma in reptiles. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a reptile with functional islet cell neoplas...
Comparative excystation of four species of poultry coccidia.

SYNOPSIS. Examination of the crop, gizzard, and intestinal contents of chickens fed suspensions of either Eimeria acervulina or E. tenella oocysts and turkeys fed either E. meleagrimitis or E. gallopavonis oocysts indicated that, in all 4 species, (1) oocysts apparently remained unchanged while in the crop, (2) sporocysts were liberated from oocysts while the latter were passing through the gizzard, (3) sporozoites were activated and escaped from liberated sporocysts after they had reached the small intestine, and (4) sporozoites within intact oocysts in the crop, gizzard, and intestines were not activated. In vitro, trypsin 1–300 alone caused a small percentage of sporozoites to excyst from mechanically liberated sporocysts. The percentage of excystation increased greatly when trypsin was added to sodium taurocholate and increased even more when it was combined with chicken or turkey bile. The two duodenal species (E. acervulina and E. meleagrimitis) differed both in vivo and in vitro from the two cecal species (E. tenella and E. gallopavonis). The duodenal species excysted in less time and farther anteriorly in the small intestine than did the cecal species. In addition, sporozoites of the two cecal species survived much longer in media containing trypsin plus bile or sodium taurccholate than did those of the two duodenal species.
Air-stable, solution-processable n-channel and ambipolar semiconductors for thin-film transistors based on the indenofluorenebis(dicyanovinylene) core.

We present here the synthesis, characterization, and field-effect performance of a novel n-channel semiconducting molecule TIFDMT and of the corresponding thiophene-based copolymer P-IFDMT4 based on the indenofluorenebis(dicyanovinylene) core. TIFDMT-based field-effect transistors fabricated by spin-coating exhibit high electron mobilities of 0.10−0.16 cm2/V s in air, low turn-on voltages (∼0 to +5 V), and high on/off ratios of 107−108. These devices also exhibit excellent air stability over a prolonged time of storage in ambient conditions. P-IFDMT4-based devices exhibit the first example of an air-stable ambipolar polymer processable from solution
Synthesis of fluorescein labeled 7-methylguanosinemonophosphate

Binding of eIF4E to the cap structure (m(7)GpppN) plays a critical role in mRNA translation. To study the interaction between eIF4E and cap, and to identify small molecule inhibitors of their binding, we synthesized a fluorescent-labeled cap analogue and used it to develop a fluorescence-polarization assay. This preliminary communication describes the synthesis of a fluorescein labeled 7-methylguanosinemonophosphate, and its dose dependent binding to purified human eIF4E as demonstrated by the fluorescence polarization assay.
Fyn Regulates Adipogenesis by Promoting PIKE-A/STAT5a Interaction

Fyn is a tyrosine kinase with multiple roles in a variety of cellular processes. Here we report that Fyn is a new kinase involved in adipocyte differentiation. Elevated Fyn protein is detected specifically in the adipocytes of obese mice. Moreover, Fyn expression increases progressively in 3T3-L1 cells during in vitro adipogenesis, which correlates with its kinase activity. Inhibition of Fyn by either genetic or pharmacological manipulation restrains the 3T3-L1 preadipocytes from fully differentiating into mature adipocytes. Mechanistically, Fyn regulates the activity of the adipogenic transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 5a (STAT5a) through enhancing its interaction with the GTPase phosphoinositide 3-kinase enhancer A (PIKE-A). The STAT5a activity is therefore reduced in Fyn- or PIKE-ablated adipose tissues, leading to diminished expression of adipogenic markers and adipocyte differentiation. Our data thus demonstrate a novel functional interaction between Fyn, PIKE-A, and STAT5a in mediating adipogenesis.
Effects of supplemental choline on extracellular acetylcholine in the nucleus accumbens during normal behavior and pharmacological acetylcholine depletion

Brain microdialysis was used to determine whether systemic or local application of choline would modify the extracellular concentration of acetylcholine (ACh) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of freely moving rats. Supplemental choline given intraperitoneally or into the NAc of normal rats did not increase extracellular ACh. When local ACh interneurons in the NAc were treated pharmacologically to deplete the intracellular stores of ACh, then systemic choline (80 mg/kg) was an effective treatment. Specifically, 1) blockade of the high-affinity choline transporter with hemicholinium-3 (HC-3) to reduce ACh synthesis caused a decrease in extracellular ACh, but choline supplementation restored ACh toward its normal level in the NAc. 2) Local bicuculline treatment released ACh to the point of depletion, but systemic choline or locally infused choline helped maintain normal ACh levels. These results suggest that choline supplementation might be useful in preventing depletion of ACh in the nucleus accumbens during pathological conditions.
Nanoreactors for inorganic cluster synthesis

Abstract We have generalized our work on the spatial confinement of inorganic clusters in block copolymer domains to a nanoreactor scheme for cluster synthesis. Using this new methodology a wide range of inorganic clusters can be synthesized from a single block copolymer starting material which contains carboxylic acid functionalized repeat units in one of the blocks. Metals are selectively sequestered into the acid-containing domains of the heterogeneous block copolymer morphology, either from aqueous solutions of suitably chosen salts or, when possible, via vapour permeation of a suitable organometallic compound. Once ‘loaded’, these metal-containing domains serve as localized reaction sites for cluster synthesis, for example via reaction with H 2 S to form metal sulfides. The reaction also rejuvenates the carboxylic acid sites, rendering the nanoreactors capable of being ‘reloaded’ with more of the same metal, or another, for further cluster synthesis.
Tension string structure for planetary entry vehicles.

This paper provides a brief description and analysis of a new ultralightweight, high-drag concept for the construction of planetary entry vehicles. This concept employs structural principles similar to those used in suspension bridges or bicycle wheel design: high-strength filamentary strings in pure tension, a central support member, and an equatorial ring that is stabilized against buckling by the forebody and afterbody strings. Preliminary designs and a manufacturing technique have been developed, and 12-in.-diam models have been constructed from trilene monofilaments with plexiglass rings and central supports. Tradeoff studies suggest that the following materials might be best for flight vehicles: strings of "S" glass yarn (Owens Corning Fiberglas Corp.), a toroidal ring of aluminum, and a central support of aluminum honeycomb sandwich. The negative Gaussian curvature of the axisymmetric forebody should provide aerodynamic characteristics between those of the sphere-cone and the Langley tension shell. An elastomeric material can be applied to the forebody strings to form a heat shield. Further work on this concept appears to be warranted.
The Role of Interelement Selection in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ty Element Evolution

Retrotransposons are mobile genetic elements that are ubiquitous components of eukaryotic genomes. The evolutionary success of retrotransposons is explained by their ability to replicate faster than the host genomes in which they reside. Elements with higher rates of genomic replication possess a selective advantage over less active elements. Retrotransposon populations, therefore, are shaped largely by selective forces acting at the genomic level between elements. To evaluate rigorously the effects of selective forces acting on retrotransposons, detailed information on the patterns of molecular variation within and between retrotransposon families is needed. The sequencing of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome, which includes the entire genomic complement of yeast retrotransposons, provides an unprecedented opportunity to access and analyze such data. In this study, we analyzed in detail the patterns of nucleotide variation within the open reading frames of two parental (Ty1 and Ty2) and one hybrid (Ty1/2) family of yeast retrotransposons. The pattern and distribution of nucleotide changes on the phylogenetic reconstructions of the three families of Ty elements reveal evidence of negative selection on both internal and external branches of the Ty phylogenies. These results indicate that most, if not all, Ty elements examined represent active or recently active retrotransposon lineages. We discuss the relevance of these findings with respect to the coevolutionary dynamic operating between genomic element populations and the host organisms in which they reside.
THE INFLUENCE OF INTRACELLULAR RED BLOOD CELL (RBC) pH ON HEMOGLOBIN OXYGEN EQUILIBRIUM AFTER ANGIOGRAPHY

Our previous observation that a leftward shift in the hemoglobin oxygen dissociation curve (HODC) occurs within minutes after injection of contrast material (Inves. Rad. 8:191,1973) prompted us to investigate the in vivo effect of contrast media on RBC pH. Serial determinations of whole blood (WB), plasma (P) and RBC pH were obtained during cardiac catheterization, prior to, and after a bolus injection (1-1.8 ml/kg) of sodium and meglumine diatrizoate (Renovist-II) in 28 patients (pts) with congenital heart disease. In 17 additional pts concomitant determinations of HODC were obtained. RBC pH was measured by freeze thaw method utilizing liquid nitrogen and a glass electrode. Mean RBC pH increased from 7.2l±.01(lSE)to 7.24±.01 (p<.001; paired t test) 1-2 minutes after injection and remained elevated at 7.23±.01 for as long as 20 minutes (p=.02-.05). There were no significant changes in WB and P pH, although P pH decreased from 7.46±.01 to 7.43±.02(p=.06)1-2 minutes after the injection.In the 15/17 pts with HODC determinations, an increase in RBC pH was associated with a simultaneous decrease in P50(pO2 at 50% oxyhemoglobin saturation, pH 7.4 37°C)(p<.01). The average increase in RBC pH of 0.03(range .01-.12)was accompanied by a decrease in P50 of 1.2 mmHg(0.4-2.8). These data suggest that a fall in RBC hydrogen ion concentration (Bohr effect) may be responsible for the leftward shift in HODC (decrease P50) after angiography.
Self-Quenched Covalent Fluorescent Dye–Nucleic Acid Conjugates as Polymeric Substrates for Enzymatic Nuclease Assays

A fluorescent method is described for assessing nuclease activity. The technique is based on the preparation of quenched fluorophore-nucleic acid covalent conjugates and their subsequent dequenching due to degradation by nucleases. The resulting fluorescence increase can be measured by a spectrofluorometer and exhibits subpicogram per milliliter sensitivity level for RNase A and low picogram per milliliter level for DNase I. The method is adaptable for quantitative nuclease inhibitor testing.
A new curriculum for fiber-optic systems

A new approach to senior-level fiber optics and photonics curricula is presented. The approach shifts the education goals’ focus from device construction and physics to system level integration and performance. A revised curriculum is presented, and feedback from students in the initial offering is provided.
Program Participation and Acreage Response Functions for U.S. Corn: A Regional Econometric Analysis

analysis have usually modeled program and non-program acreage response in a single aggregate equation. In the presence of government programs, such an approach is less preferred because it fails to distinguish the factors affecting producers' decisions to participate from the factors affecting their planting decisions. A more effective approach is to estimate producer participation response first and then relate this to program planted acreage. Nonprogram acreage response is estimated separately, and is inversely related to participant response. This article reports empirical estimates from two alternative procedures that directly address this concern. The analysis is based on regional time series data for the Cornbelt and Lake States and the Northern Plains.
Comparative studies of the effects of recombinant GM-CSF and GM-CSF administered via a poxvirus to enhance the concentration of antigen- presenting cells in regional lymph nodes.

Repeated subcutaneous (s.c.) injections of recombinant granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (recGM-CSF) for 4-5 days can enrich an immunization site with antigen-presenting cells (APC), which has been correlated with improved immune responses in experimental and clinical studies. A recombinant vaccinia virus encoding the GM-CSF gene (rV-GM-CSF) has been developed and can generate specific antitumour immunity in a whole tumour cell vaccine. In the present study, we examined whether rV-GM-CSF could produce and release GM-CSF locally which, in turn, might enrich a site of immunization for APC as previously shown for recGM-CSF. S.c. injection of rV-GM-CSF significantly (P<0.05) enhanced the percentage and overall number of APC, measured by class II expression levels, in the regional lymph nodes that drain the injection site. Dose- and temporal-dependent studies showed class II expression levels in the draining lymph nodes were maximally enhanced 5-7 days after a single injection of 10(7)plaque-forming units (pfu) of rV-GM-CSF. Flow cytometry revealed that the increase in class II expression resulted from (i) a higher class II expression level on CD19(+)B cells and (ii) an increase in the number of CD11c(+)/class II(+)professional APC within the draining lymph nodes. Moreover, isolation of lymph nodes from rV-GM-CSF-treated mice revealed their capacity to support higher levels of antigen-specific T cell proliferation and allospecific cytotoxic responses. A comparison between a single injection of rV-GM-CSF and a 4-day course of recGM-CSF revealed comparable changes in class II expression and functional T cell assays. GM-CSF can be delivered in a recombinant poxvirus, and the local production of the cytokine results in cellular and phenotypic changes that are similar to those of recGM-CSF. The ability to utilize rV-GM-CSF as a single inoculum may be more compatible with traditional immunization strategies.
Physicochemical properties of glucocorticoid receptors from mouse fibroblasts.

Glucocorticoid-bound receptor macromolecules were prepared in three forms from mouse fibroblast cells: the cytosol receptor, the nuclear extractable receptor, and the nuclear residual form obtained by DNase digestion of chromatin samples. These receptor complexes were studied with respect to gel filtration properties, sedimentation velocities in various salt concentrations, partial specific volumes, isoelectric points, and thermal stability properties. The results indicate that the three forms of the receptor differ in their molecular properties, and nuclear translocation and binding of the receptor complex is associated with conformational and physical changes consistent with a reduction in apparent molecular weight. (Endocrinology 100: 271, 1977)
Register systematic reviews.

Straus and Moher call for “a registry of protocols for systematic reviews and of completed reviews.” [1][1] We agree that such a registry would, among other things, help reduce publication bias, promote transparency and enhance collaboration. Following the lead of early registers of published
The Hairpin Ribozyme

The hairpin ribozyme is a member of a family of small RNA endonucleases, which includes hammerhead, human hepatitis delta virus, Neurospora VS, and the lead-dependent catalytic RNAs. All these catalytic RNAs reversibly cleave the phosphodiester bond of substrate RNA to generate 5′-hydroxyl and 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate termini. Whereas the reaction products from family members are similar, large structural and mechanistic differences exist. Structurally the hairpin ribozyme has two principal domains that interact to facilitate catalysis. The hairpin ribozyme uses a catalytic mechanism that does not require metals for cleavage or ligation of substrate RNA. In this regard it is presently unique among RNA catalysts. Targeting rules for cleavage of substrate have been determined and required bases for catalysis have been identified. The hairpin ribozyme has been developed and used for gene therapy and was the first ribozyme to be approved for human clinical trials.
Salinity and drought tolerance of mannitol‐accumulating transgenic tobacco

Tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L.) were transformed with a mannitol-1-phosphate dehydrogenase gene resulting in mannitol accumulation. Experiments were conducted to determine whether mannitol provides salt and/or drought stress protection through osmotic adjustment. Non-stressed transgenic plants were 20-25% smaller than non-stressed, non-transformed (wild-type) plants in both salinity and drought experiments. However, salt stress reduced dry weight in wild-type plants by 44%, but did not reduce the dry weight of transgenic plants. Transgenic plants adjusted osmotically by 0.57 MPa, whereas wild-type plants did not adjust osmotically in response to salt stress. Calculations of solute contribution to osmotic adjustment showed that mannitol contributed only 0.003-0.004 MPa to the 0.2 MPa difference in full turgor osmotic potential (π o ) between salt-stressed transgenic and wild-type plants. Assuming a cytoplasmic location for mannitol and that the cytoplasm constituted 5% of the total water volume, mannitol accounted for only 30-40 % of the change in π o of the cytoplasm. Inositol, a naturally occurring polyol in tobacco, accumulated in response to salt stress in both transgenic and wild-type plants, and was 3-fold more abundant than mannitol in transgenic plants. Drought stress reduced the leaf relative water content, leaf expansion, and dry weight of transgenic and wild-type plants. However, π o was not significantly reduced by drought stress in transgenic or wild-type plants, despite an increase in non-structural carbohydrates and mannitol in droughted plants. We conclude that (1) mannitol was a relatively minor osmolyte in transgenic tobacco, but may have indirectly enhanced osmotic adjustment and salt tolerance; (2) inositol cannot substitute for mannitol in this role; (3) slower growth of the transgenic plants, and not the presence of mannitol per se, may have been the cause of greater salt tolerance, and (4) mannitol accumulation was enhanced by drought stress but did not affect π o or drought tolerance.
The water entry of slender axisymmetric bodies

We present a study of the forces, velocities, and trajectories of slender (length/diameter = 10) axisymmetric projectiles using an embedded inertial measurement unit (IMU). Three nose shapes (cone, ogive, and flat) were used. Projectiles were tested at vertical and oblique impact angles with different surface treatments. The trajectory of a half-hydrophobic and half-hydrophilc case impacting vertically was compared to the trajectory of symmetrically coated projectiles impacting the free surface at oblique angles. The oblique impact cases showed significantly more final lateral displacement than the half-and-half case over the same depth. The amount of lateral displacement was also affected by the nose shape, with the cone nose shape achieving the largest lateral displacement for the oblique entry case. Instantaneous lift and drag coefficients were calculated using data from the IMU for the vertical, half-and-half, and oblique entry cases. Impact forces were calculated for each nose shape and the flat nose shape experienced the largest impulsive forces up to 37 N when impacting vertically. The impact force of the flat nose decreased for the oblique entry case. The location of the center of pressure was determined at discrete time steps using a theoretical torque model and values from the IMU. Acoustic spectrograms showed that the sound produced during the water entry event predominately arises from the pinch-off for the cone and ogive nose shapes, with additional sound production from impact for the flat nose shape. Each test run was imaged using two Photron SA3 cameras.
HP-adaptive multi-physics finite-element simulation of wireline borehole sonic waveforms

We develop a new finite-element method (FEM) to simulate wireline (WL) borehole acoustic waveforms. It works in the frequency domain, is fully adaptive, and enables accurate simulations in the presence of large contrasts of elastic properties. Coupling of acoustic and elastic wave propagation in the borehole and the formation, respectively, is achieved with a new, stable multi-physics formulation. In addition, the method includes a Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) technique for effective truncation of the spatial domain. Examples of application are shown for the simulation of WL sonic waveforms acquired with monopole and dipole sources. Results indicate accurate and reliable reproduction of tool, borehole, and formation propagation modes in the presence of fractures (we show this example thoroughly in this paper), layered formation, and a steel casing.
Boards of Directors Self Interest: Expanding for Pay in Corporate Acquisitions?.

Director compensation can potentially represent an ethical minefield. When faced with supporting strategic decisions that can lead to an increase in director pay, directors may consider their own interests and not solely those of the shareholders to whom they are legally bound to represent. In such cases, directors essentially become agents, rather than those installed to protect principals (shareholders) from agents. Using acquisitions as a study context, we employ a matched-pair design and find a statistically significant difference in outside director compensation between acquiring and control firms. Outside directors of acquiring firms earn more than twice as much as their counterparts in the matched-sample.
A critical review of the successful CFC phase-out versus the delayed methyl bromide phase-out in the Montreal Protocol

The Montreal Protocol is often described as an international environmental agreement par excellence. After all, it successfully led to the phase-out of almost 95% of all chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) use. A critical review of the Protocol’s history, however, suggests that its successes are deeply entrenched in the economic opportunities that were made available to phase out CFCs. The Montreal Protocol, in other words, was a “best-case scenario” for CFC producers. This may be problematic for policymakers, ecological modernization practitioners, and other scholars who look to the Montreal Protocol for guidance in phasing out other global environmentally harmful substances and practices that are not as “economically efficient.” The shift to delay the phasing out of methyl bromide (MeBr) in the Protocol, an ozone-depleting substance used to this day primarily in strawberry and tomato production, demonstrates how even this most successful of international environmental agreements can become subject to significant setbacks when economic gains and scientific evidence are not obvious to the global powers. Furthermore, changes in what constitutes a viable exemption to the phase-out of CFCs versus MeBr marks a shift away from concern for the general functioning/welfare of society, and toward concern for the market performance of specific individuals. This shift runs parallel to a lack in economic incentives to phase out MeBr in the United States. The article demonstrates how civil society representation in ozone politics is largely dominated by industry interests, especially when scientific uncertainty is high.
Development of a whole-stalk sweet sorghum harvester.

ABSTRACT Sweet sorghum can be readily grown in the Eastern U.S. Piedmont, but irregular-shaped fields on rolling terrain present a challenge to mechanical harvesting. An Atkinson sugarcane harvester was converted from a three-point hitch to a pull-type machine. Gathering chains captured the stalks as they were cut at the base, and elevated them at a 30° angle. The stalk was gripped between two rotating disks and flipped to the horizontal position. Disk tangential velocity was 24% greater than chain velocity. Total power required was 33 kW (44 hp) with 67% for the chains and 28% for drawbar pull.
Cirrus clouds and deep convection in the tropics: Insights from CALIPSO and CloudSat

[1] Using a 2-year data set of combined lidar and cloud radar measurements from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) and CloudSat satellites, the occurrence of tropical cirrus and deep convective clouds is studied. The cloud identification algorithm takes advantage of the ability of the radar to probe deep precipitating clouds and of the lidar to sample even subvisual cirrus clouds. Examined are the frequency of occurrence and the geographical distribution of these clouds, and their apparent interconnections. There is a strong apparent diurnal variability in tropical cirrus mainly over land, with significantly more cirrus detected at night compared to day, but no clear diurnal pattern in deep convective activity. CALIPSO daylight signal noise effects do not appear to be not responsible for the diurnal cirrus pattern, because high, thin tropopause transitional layer (TTL) cirrus do not show a clear diurnal effect. Stratifying the global results by estimated visible cloud optical depth τ, we find that most of the planet's subvisual (τ < ∼0.03) cirrus clouds occur in the tropics and are more frequent at night and over ocean; thin (∼0.03 < τ < ∼0.3) cirrus have their highest global frequencies over equatorial landmasses and in the west Pacific region, and are also more frequent at night but occur mainly over land; and opaque (∼0.3 < τ < ∼3.0) cirrus are spread globally and tend to occur during the day over ocean. Although it is unknown which of the several proposed cirrus cloud formation mechanisms are key in the tropics, the close association of cirrus with convective clouds implies that tropical cirrus are linked to deep convective activity, with the likely exception of TTL cirrus clouds.
Vapor−Liquid Equilibria for the Hexane + Hexadecane and Hexane + 1-Hexadecanol Systems at Elevated Temperatures and Pressures

Vapor and liquid equilibrium compositions have been measured for the hexane + hexadecane and the hexane + 1-hexadecanol systems at temperatures from 472.0 K to 623.0 K and pressures from 6.2 bar to 46.4 bar. A continuous-flow apparatus was used both to minimize possible thermal degradation and to accurately measure the lower hexadecanol concentrations in the vapor phase. Mixture critical pressures and compositions were also measured. Results indicate that the addition of the hydroxyl group to the C16 hydrocarbon backbone significantly affects the phase behavior with hexane.
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICE, MEAT INSPECTION DIVISION; CHEMICAL REQUIREMENTS AS THEY APPLY TO THE FAT AND OIL INDUSTRY.

This paper cites portions of the Meat Inspection Act giving authority for the control of chemicals in meat and meat food products. It defines the extent of coverage, procedures for determining compilance, criteria used in evaluating safety or suitability of chemicals used in the treatment of fats, fat derivatives or other meat food products. It identifies certain requirements covering the use of detergents, paints, adhesives, packaging materials and other miscellaneous substances used in the packing plant. It mentions the system of checking employed by field laboratories and in-plant inspectors. It notes the contact points with representatives of the Division and lists the publication containing pertinent regulations.
Managing Older Patients With Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is predominantly a disease of older persons, and our population is aging. Physicians and their older patients commonly face the dilemma of whether or not to give/receive systemic chemotherapy for CRC. Evidence supports the safety and efficacy of systemic chemotherapy in fit older patients motivated enough to enroll onto clinical trials. Conversely, frail older patients are more likely to suffer adverse outcomes when faced with stressors and may not benefit from chemotherapy. However, the majority of patients are neither fit nor frail, and current evidence is insufficient to either quantify or qualify the benefit of chemotherapy for this intermediate group of patients. Thus, treatment decisions must be individualized based on each older person's physical state (eg, their function and degree of comorbidity) and values. Despite a growing body of data, a great deal of work is still needed to establish optimal strategies to care for patients diagnosed with cancer later in life.
Influence of the Support on the Structural Characteristics of Carbon Nanofibers Produced from the Metal-Catalyzed Decomposition of Ethylene

The notion of using support materials to achieve high dispersions of metal particles has been extended to the synthesis of carbon nanofibers from the catalyzed decomposition of ethylene. By using this approach it has been possible to generate nanofibers whose widths are dictated by the dimensions of the supported metal particles. In addition, the support may alter the state of the bulk and/or the surface of the catalyst particle through metal−support interactions, and the impact of this effect is manifested by modifications in the structural characteristics of the nanofiber deposits. In an attempt to gain a clearer insight into the influence of metal−support interaction on the growth characteristics of GNF, three metals, Fe, Ni, and Co that are known to be active catalysts for this process were impregnated onto silica, graphite, and well-characterized graphite nanofiber supports. Characterization of the solid carbon products was performed by a variety of approaches including high-resolution transmission e...
Is There a Place for Cerebral Preconditioning in the Clinic

Preconditioning (PC) describes a phenomenon whereby a sub-injury-inducing stress can protect against a later injurious stress. Great strides have been made in identifying the mechanisms of PC-induced protection in animal models of brain injury. While these may help elucidate potential therapeutic targets, there are questions over the clinical utility of cerebral PC, primarily because of questions over the need to give the PC stimulus prior to the injury, narrow therapeutic windows, and safety. The object of this review is to address the question of whether there may indeed be a clinical use for cerebral PC and to discuss the deficiencies in our knowledge of PC that may hamper such clinical translation.