cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Two Syntheses of Dispiro[2.1.3.2]decane

Dispiro[2.1.3.2]decane, the first of the five possible dispirodecanes constituted from one three-membered, one four-membered, and one five-membered ring to be synthesized, has been prepared efficiently in four steps from methylenecyclopropane and again in five steps from methylenecyclobutane.
Urbanization and Family Structure in the Ivory Coast

Urbanization may be viewed as a particular manifestation of social change. As such, it is often defined as a process leading originally distinct social systems to a common destination. As an example, it is supposed to facilitate the universal emergence of a European type of nuclear family. In this perspective, many scholars have been eager to determine the extent to which African patterns of familial behavior lose their traditional specific properties. These researchers have in fact equated the problem of measuring urbanization with the problem of measuring the relative decline and persistence of traditional affiliations. Taking as examples the familial systems of two Ivory Coast peoples, the present paper intends to show some of the limitations of this type of analysis.
Growth and attenuation of rabies virus in cell cultures of reptilian origin.

SummaryThe capacity of nine poikilothermic vertebrate cell lines, of fish, amphibian, and reptilian origin, to support replication of strain CVS rabies virus was determined. Two fish cell lines and two amphibian cell lines supported little or no rabies virus infection, while five reptilian cell lines tested varied from essentially unsusceptible (iguana cell line IgH2) to a high susceptibility (viper cell line VSW) comparable to that of mammalian cells. Rabies virus serially propagated in VSW cells became virtually apathogenic for adult mice by passage level 81, yet remained highly immunogenic. Rabies virus serially propagated in the gecko cell line GL1 became highly attenuated for adult mice by passage level 40, but also expressed reduced immunogenicity. In two separate experiments, virus passaged in GL1 cells also acquired a small-plaque character in early passage. Ibadan shrew virus and Lagos bat virus, viruses antigenically related to rabies virus, both replicated efficiently in cell line VSW, but only...
Axial Reactivity of Soluble Silicon(IV) Phthalocyanines

The axial reactivity of peripherally octasubstituted soluble silicon(IV) phthalocyanines (SiPcZ8, Z = OC5H11 or Z = C5H11) was studied in order to explore new synthetic routes for preparing axially functionalized SiPc monomers and dimers. Self-exchange of the axial methoxide in methylmethoxy SiPcZ8 was about 10 times faster for Z = OC5H11 than for Z = C5H11. The Pc rings of these two complexes do not differ in electron-richness; their first oxidation potentials ( −0.880 and −0.875 V, respectively) are the same within experimental error. The axial alkoxide ligand in methylisopropoxy SiPcZ8 monomer (1c‘ ‘, 2c‘‘) could be quantitatively replaced by mercaptoethanol to yield O-bound methylmercaptoethoxy SiPcZ8 (1h, 2h). Condensation of methylhydroxy SiPcZ8 monomers yielded μ-oxo-bridged bismethyl SiPcZ8 dimers (1k, 2k) without formation of oligomeric byproducts. Photolysis of such methyl-capped dimers in the presence of mercaptoethanol yielded μ-oxo-bridged bismercaptoethoxy SiPcZ8 dimers (1n, 2n) which are of...
Extraction and detergent/lipid activation of dolichol kinase

Abstract The CTP-dependent dolichol kinase from bovine liver microsonies was optimally extracted using either 0.5% sodium deoxycholate or 0.5% Triton X-100 containing 0.5 M NH4Cl. All activity was found in the supernatant fraction following high-speed centrifugation. This fraction was depleted of phospholipid (phospholipid remaining, less than 5% of total) by gel chromatography of the 0.5% deoxycholate extract. This partially purified enzyme was maximally activated 9- or 53-fold over controls in the presence of 0.1% deoxycholate or 0.1% Triton X-100, respectively. Stimulation of the kinase was also observed with mixtures of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate. The level of stimulation by these mixtures was up to 20-fold higher than that observed in controls having deoxycholate alone. Dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine alone was not stimulatory. A 1:1 molar ratio of Triton X-100 or deoxycholate to dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine was optimal for enzyme activation. The half-maximum velocity of the dephospholipidated enzyme at 1:1 molar ratio of detergent to dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine was obtained at 150 or 550 μM CTP in the presence of deoxycholate or Triton X-100, respectively. It has been observed, therefore, that dolichol kinase may be extracted from liver microsomes, depleted of endogenous phospholipids and activated by specific molar ratios of detergent to phospholipid.
Vacant-Site Octahedral Tilings on SrTiO 3 (001), the ( 13 × 13 ) R 33.7 ° Surface, and Related Structures

The structure of the ${\mathrm{SrTiO}}_{3}$ (001) $(\sqrt{13}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{13})R33.7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$ surface reconstruction has been determined using transmission electron diffraction combined with direct methods and density functional theory. It has a ${\mathrm{TiO}}_{2}$-rich surface with a 2D tiling of edge or corner-sharing ${\mathrm{TiO}}_{5}\ensuremath{\square}$ octahedra. Additionally, different arrangements of these octahedral units at the surface, dictated by local bond-valence sums, form 2D networks that can account for many ordered surface reconstructions as well as disordered glasslike structures consistent with the multitude of structures observed experimentally, and potentially other materials and interfaces.
Evolution of the visual cycle: the role of retinoid-binding proteins.

The trafficking ofretinoids in the retina represents a model to study soluble hormone-binding proteins in a complex system subject to profound evolutionary adaptations Although a remarkable illustration of convergent evolution, all visual systems detect light in the same way that is through the photoisomerization of an 11 -cis retinoid to a corresponding trans isomer. What is strikingly different between the systems, is the mechanism by which the 11-cis chromophore is reformed and visual pigment regenerated in a process known as the visual cycle. The variations of the cycle address a problem inherent to retinoids themselves. That is, the properties that make these molecules suited for light detection also account for their susceptibility to oxidative and isomeric degradation, and cellular toxicity. The cycle therefore provides an opportunity to examine the role of soluble hormone-binding proteins within an integrative and evolutionary context. The present review focuses on interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP), a controversial glycolipoprotein that recruits a protein fold common to C-terminal-processing proteases and the crotonase family. This unorthodox retinoid-binding protein is entrapped in the subretinal compartment of those eyes that translocate visual cycle retinoids between the photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium. Recent studies suggest that we should look beyond a strictly carrier function if we are to appreciate the role of IRBP in the visual cycle. Here we draw lessons from other soluble hormone-binding proteins to anticipate avenues of future research likely to provide insight into the structure and function of IRBP in vision.
The isotropic molecular polarizabilities of single methyl-branched alkanes in the terahertz range

Abstract Additive models for molecular parameters have a long history, and remain important for the rapid prediction of molecular properties. To test the validity of an additive approach, we study the polarizabilities of methyl branched alkanes in the terahertz spectral range, and compare these to the polarizabilities of their straight chain counterparts. A single branched methyl group increases the isotropic polarizability by a fixed amount, regardless of the carbon backbone chain length or the methyl branch’s position. These results, which are also compared to DFT calculations, establish the validity of an empirical additive approach for these prototype non-polar and non-hydrogen-bonding liquids.
Linear Latent Structure Analysis and Modelling of Multiple Categorical Variables

Linear latent structure analysis is a new approach for investigation of population heterogeneity using high-dimensional categorical data. In this approach, the population is represented by a distribution of latent vectors, which play the role of heterogeneity variables, and individual characteristics are represented by the expectation of this vector conditional on individual response patterns. Results of the computer experiments demonstrating a good quality of reconstruction of model parameters are described. The heterogeneity distribution estimated from 1999 National Long Term Care Survey (NLTCS) is discussed. A predictive power of the heterogeneity scores on mortality is analysed using vital statistics data linked to NLTCS.
A model-based efficiency calibration of a Si(Li) detector in the energy region from 3 to 140 keV

Abstract The full-energy peak efficiency in a particular geometry of a collimated 3 mm × mm2 Si(Li) detector with 0.5 mil thick beryllium and Mylar windows was determined over the energy range 3.3–136 keV by measuring the absolute intensities of X- and low-energy γ-rays from the decays of intensity-calibrated sources of 241Am, 57Co, 137Cs and 65Zn. The measured efficiencies were fitted to a simple analytic function of photon energy, with the fit showing good agreement with the data over the entire range of energies. The physical basis of the model as well as the meaningfulness of its parameters is discussed. A discrepancy between the fit and the measured efficiency of the 17.75 keV Lβ + Lη X-rays from 241Am decay required a re-evaluation of the intensity per decay for these transitions. Some peculiarities of the low-energy efficiency response are discussed and are attributed to source self-absorption effects. The extension of the calibration to lower energies would be possible if more low-energy photon sources with known X-ray intensities were available. The use of L X-rays and L/K intensity ratios calculated from published data for medium-Z elements is discussed and is considered to be feasible for this extension purpose. Some radio-nuclides that are likely to be useful in the low-energy region are suggested.
Monte Carlo calculation of phase equilibria for a bead-spring polymeric model

Vapor-liquid phase diagrams for a bead-spring polymeric model have been calculated for chain lengths of 20, 50, and 100 from Monte Carlo simulations using the recently proposed chain increment method to determine the chain chemical potentials. Densities of both phases at coexistence and vapor pressures were obtained directly for a range of temperatures from highly subcritical to the vicinity of the critical point, and the critical temperature and density for each chain length were obtained by extrapolation. They also calculated the second virial coefficients for chain-chain interactions of the model and found that the temperature at which the second virial coefficients for chain-chain interactions of the model and found that the temperature at which the second virial coefficient vanishes for long chains coincides, within computational uncertainty, with the infinite chain length critical point from the phase equilibrium results. At the critical points of the finite length chains the second virial coefficient assume negative values, indicating attractive interchain interactions. The radius of gyration of chains of varying length was also determined and the [theta] temperature obtained from the radii of gyration found to coincide, within computational uncertainty, with the critical point for an infinite chain length polymer. The computational methodology theymore » utilize can be extended to the calculation of phase equilibria in multicomponent polymer/solvent systems.« less
Utilizing Multimedia Applications to Enhance Instruction of Performance Assessment for Pre-Service Teachers

Although performance assessment has rapidly captured the attention of educators and is widely accepted as an important component of pre-service teacher preparation, problems remain with incorporating performance assessment into typical university measurement courses. This article examines these problems and suggests that multimedia applications be utilized to resolve some of them and to enhance the instruction of performance assessment in teacher preparation measurement courses. Multimedia applications employed in measurement courses allow pre-service teachers to observe and analyze performances in art, physical eduction, vocational education, and other authentic tasks appropriate for direct assessment.
Photon tunnelling microscopy of polyethylene single crystals

Abstract Light incident on a total internal reflection surface will tunnel through a submicrometre gap in the presence of a dielectric surface. This tunnelling phenomenon is used in the photon tunnelling microscope to image polyethylene single crystals, providing a topographical map of the single-crystal surface. Tunnelling increases exponentially with sample height and is quantified using video photometry of the grey-scale tunnelling image.
RR9. Prediction of Spinal Cord Ischemia after TEVAR

An Updated Report on 30-Day Outcomes After Carotid Revascularization in the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Registry (SVS-VR) Jeffrey Jim, Manju Kalra, Gregory J. Landry, Julio C. Vasquez, D. B. Schneider, Christopher T. Kenwood, Flora S. Siami, Gilbert R. Upchurch. Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo; Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn; Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Ore; Portneuf Medical Center, Pocatello, Ida; New York Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY; New England Research Institutes, Inc, Watertown, Mass; University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va
FRET Detection of Calmodulin Binding to the Cardiac RyR2 Calcium Release Channel

Calmodulin (CaM) binding to the type 2 ryanodine receptor (RyR2) regulates Ca release from the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). However, the structural basis of CaM regulation of the RyR2 is poorly defined, and the presence of other potential CaM binding partners in cardiac myocytes complicates resolution of CaM's regulatory interactions with RyR2. Here, we show that a fluorescence-resonance-energy-transfer (FRET)-based approach can effectively resolve RyR2 CaM binding, both in isolated SR membrane vesicles and in permeabilized ventricular myocytes. A small FRET donor was targeted to the RyR2 cytoplasmic assembly via fluorescent labeling of the FKBP12.6 subunit. Acceptor fluorophore was attached at discrete positions within either the N- or the C-lobe of CaM. FRET between FKBP12.6 and CaM bound to SR vesicles indicated CaM binding at a single high-affinity site within 60 A of FKBP12.6. Micromolar Ca increased the apparent affinity of CaM binding and slowed CaM dissociation, but did not significantly affect maximal FRET efficiency at saturating CaM. FRET was strongest when the acceptor was attached at either of two positions within CaM's N-lobe versus sites in CaM's C-lobe, providing CaM orientation information. In permeabilized ventricular myocytes, FKBP12.6 and CaM colocalized to Z-lines, and the efficiency of energy transfer to both the N- and C-lobes of CaM was comparable to that observed in SR vesicle experiments. Results also indicate that both the location and orientation of CaM binding on the RyR2 are very similar to the skeletal muscle RyR1 isoform. Specific binding of CaM to functional RyR2 channels in the cardiac myocyte environment can be monitored using FKBP biosensors and FRET.
Starch-binding domain-containing protein 1 (Stbd1) and glycogen metabolism: Identification of the Atg8 family interacting motif (AIM) in Stbd1 required for interaction with GABARAPL1

Glycogen, a branched polymer of glucose, acts as an intracellular carbon and energy reserve in many tissues and cell types. An important pathway for its degradation is by transport to lysosomes in an autophagy-like process. It has been proposed that starch-binding domain-containing protein 1 (Stbd1) may participate in this mechanism by anchoring glycogen to intracellular membranes. In addition, Stbd1 has been reported to interact with a known autophagy protein, GABARAPL1, a member of the Atg8 family. Here, we confirm this interaction and identify an Atg8 interacting motif (AIM) in Stbd1 necessary for GABARAPL1 binding as judged by co-immunoprecipitation from cell extracts and co-localization in cells as evidenced by immunofluorescence microscopy. The AIM sequence of Stbd1 200HEEWEMV206 lies within a predicted disordered region of the molecule and fits the consensus of other AIM sequences in cargo-specifying proteins such as p62 and Nix. Mutation of the AIM, including single point mutations of either W203 or V206, eliminated the co-localization of Stbd1 with both over-expressed and endogenous GABARAPL1. Stbd1 may therefore function as a novel cargo binding protein that delivers glycogen to lysosomes in an autophagic pathway that could be termed “glycophagy”.
How does breathing frequency affect the performance of an N95 filtering facepiece respirator and a surgical mask against surrogates of viral particles

Breathing frequency (breaths/min) differs among individuals and levels of physical activity. Particles enter respirators through two principle penetration pathways: faceseal leakage and filter penetration. However, it is unknown how breathing frequency affects the overall performance of N95 filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) and surgical masks (SMs) against viral particles, as well as other health-relevant submicrometer particles. A FFR and SM were tested on a breathing manikin at four mean inspiratory flows (MIFs) (15, 30, 55, and 85 L/min) and five breathing frequencies (10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 breaths/min). Filter penetration (Pfilter) and total inward leakage (TIL) were determined for the tested respiratory protection devices against sodium chloride (NaCl) aerosol particles in the size range of 20 to 500 nm. “Faceseal leakage-to-filter” (FLTF) penetration ratios were calculated. Both MIF and breathing frequency showed significant effects (p < 0.05) on Pfilter and TIL. Increasing breathing frequency...
ART AND LIFE IN AVANT-GARDE PRAGUE, 1920–1924

This essay outlines the unique interpretation of the avant-garde formulated in the early 1920s by the Czech novelist, playwright, and cultural critic Karel Capek (1890–1938). Whereas in Theory of the Avant-Garde (1974) Peter Burger argued that the central problem of the avant-garde was its failure to effect a genuine reconciliation of art and life, Capek, in contrast, worried about the prospect of success. Closely observing the practices of the Czech avant-garde group Devětsil, Capek interpreted its attempt to fuse art and life in terms derived largely from the French vitalist philosopher Henri Bergson (1859–1941) as an effort to free life from all constraints and bonds. Drawing on the work of Georg Simmel (1858–1918), he argued that the goal of living life “in itself,” without any constraints, was impossible. All life, he said, must necessarily be embodied in form and so less than completely free. Life conceived as a state of pure freedom, unbounded by any material or physical limits, amounted to the devaluation of individual life. The problem with the project of the avant-garde was that it was unethical.
Voting tools in group decision support systems: theory and implementation

Group decision making is essential in organisations. Group decision support systems (GDSS) can aide groups in making decisions by providing tools and process support. Voting tools have been considered valuable assets in groups’ decision processes. However, there is an insufficiency of theory and experiments in voting research in GDSS particularly web-based. This paper makes the following contributions: first, a theoretical framework for studying and using voting in GDSS is presented. This framework can be used as a basis for future research and applications of voting in GDSS. Next, the factors related to voting are carefully examined. This is followed by proposing and discussing classifications of voting methods. This paper also examines issues for implementing advanced voting tools in GDSS and suggests specific methods of augmenting voting functionalities in existing GDSS.
Distance Education for American Universities and the World

ing of the International Council on Distance Education that the next generation of children will be citizens of the world, not citizens of specific countries. Borders and boundaries are changing in the direction predicted by Ed Schuh at the American Agricultural Economics Association meeting in Vancouver, Canada, in 1990. He said we would become increasingly more local and global as the emphasis on state, region, and nation diminishes in importance. Cairncross would agree. She states that global trends include
Vargus 7: Computed patterns from markov processes

Research in pattern perception could benefit from an efficient method for sampling unfamiliar patterns from a defined population of stimuli under conditions which allow for independent control of uncertainty (bits per stimulus), redundancy, and schema. VARGUS 7, in conjunction with the theory of Markov processes, offers these characteristics in a form requiring a minimum of computer facilities.
Effects of mirex on the larval development of blue crab

The effects of 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 ppb mirex on the development of blue crabs,Callinectes sapidus, from hatching to first crab stage are described. None of the concentrations of mirex showed any appreciable effect on the larvae during the first five days. Thereafter 0.01 ppb and 0.1 ppb mirex were found to be sublethal. These concentrations had no effect on the duration of development from hatching to megalopa or from hatching to first crab stage. Concentrations of 1.0 ppb and 10.0 ppb mirex proved to be acute. No one stage of development was particularly sensitive to 0.01 ppb mirex, but in the other three concentrations some stages were more sensitive (statistically) than others. The results of residue analyses are given for larvae reared in four concentrations of mirex at different periods of development. Residues of mirex in developmental stages increased with concentration, but biological magnification was greatest in larvae reared in the lowest concentration of mirex and lowest in larvae reared in the highest concentration.
Molecular Weight and Association of Asphaltenes: a Critical Review

The determination of asphaltene molecular weights is complicated by the tendency of asphaltene molecules to associate with each other and with other petroleum constituents, and reported molecular weights vary from 900 to 300 000. This paper reviews the methods (vapor pressure osmometry, size exclusion chromatography, ultrafiltration, ultracentrifugation, viscosity, small angle X-ray scattering, infrared spectroscopy, solubilization, and interfacial tension) that have been used to estimate asphaltene molecular weights and to probe association phenomena. It is concluded that asphaltene fractions from typical crudes have a number average molecular weight of 1 200-2 700 and a molecular weight range of 1,000-10,000 or higher. Intermolecular association phenomena are primarily responsible for observed molecular weights up to and in excess of 100,000 but detailed mechanisms of the intermolecular associations are not well understood. Certain observations suggest that asphaltene molecules are associated in reversedmicelles and that asphaltenes interact selectively with resins although the evidence on these points is subject to alternate interpretations. H-bond interactions between asphaltenes and resins have been demonstrated.
Controlled Geometry Nanopore Fabrication in Silicon Nitride Membranes With a Transmission Electron Microscope

Fabrication of controlled geometry solid-state nanopores (SSNs) using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) is described. Controlling nanopore geometry allows for optimization of the shape and structure of the pore based on the need for specific applications. By manipulating TEM parameters such as current, relative stage settings, and dwell time it is possible to manufacture controlled geometry SSNs in silicon nitride (Si3 N4 ) membranes. Nanopores with circular, elliptical, and triangle-like cross-sectional areas were fabricated.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Unexplained Suffering in the Aftermath of War

Eisen and his colleagues provide robust evidence that armed forces personnel deployed to the Gulf War in the early 1990s are more likely to report a constellation of debilitating symptoms than arme...
Migration, Minority Status, and Education: European Dilemmas and Responses in the 1990s

This essay provides an overview of key issues in the recent literature on migration, minority status, and schooling in Europe. It articulates a plea for U.S.-Europe comparisons. By focusing on some emergent themes, including the problem of variability in minority schooling in Europe and the United States, the essay proposes a tentative typology for exploring comparative aspects of migration, minority status, and schooling. VARIABILITY IN MINORITY SCHOOLING, U.S.-EUROPE COMPARISONS This theme issue of AEQ brings together a select group of scholars working on the problems facing the children of immigrants in European schools. Scholars from around the world were invited to submit original essays addressing a variety of possible questions: How are the children of European Economic Community (EEC) and non-European Economic Community immigrants adapting to schooling in the new setting? Are there important differences in adaptation patterns between non-EEC immigrants such as Moroccans, Tunisians, and Turks and EEC immigrants such as Spaniards and Southern Italians? What are the differences facing the foreign-born generation and the socalled "second-generation" immigrants? How are these patterns to be accounted for? How do gender and class considerations relate to schooling processes and outcomes? What programs are being developed on European soil to respond to the special needs of immigrant children in the context of the 1992 unification? What is the meaning of education in a host society among those immigrants who hope to return "home" in the future? What are the prospects of cross-cultural comparison with research conducted on immigrant and ethnic minority groups in the United States? These are some, though by no means all, of the questions the various essays in the volume directly or indirectly address. The volume is not intended to provide an exhaustive overview of European research on the topic of migration, minority status, and schooling. Indeed, due to the space limitations inherent in a journal issue, many key areas of the problem must remain unexplored. Furthermore, some of the key countries facing the challenge of schooling large numbers of immigrants, such as France, are not represented in this volume. Italy and Spain, traditionally countries of emigration and not immigra
Ray-tossing: a quick and dirty method for the interactive design of implicitly-defined surface

Abstract This effort addresses a common industrial problem: that of quickly displaying an implicitly-defined surface of the form F ( x , y , z ) = 0, for interactive redesign and modification. While the displays are not sophisticated, they are useful in initial design stages.
EPR STUDIES ON CHLAMYDOMONAS REINHARDI

— Observations of the two light induced EPR resonances in intact cells of Chlamy domonas reinhardi are presented. An action spectrum for the amplitude of the narrow, rapidly-decaying R signal made with dilute suspensions has a peak at 680 mµ, lending support to the theory that this signal is due to chlorophylla. The decay mechanism for these spins apparently involves the oxygen-producing system, since factors attenuating this activity enhance the R signal, and in some cases decrease or abolish the broad, slowly-decaying S signal. It is pro posed that this latter resonance can be attributed to the seniiquinone of plastoquinone which may be maintained in n paramagnetic state by means of light energy absorbed by priiiiary or accessory pigments.
Manganese inhibition of 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol biosynthesis in Fusarium graminearum R 2118

Biosynthesis of 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol (3-ADN) by Fusarium graminearum R 2118 was inhibited in the presence of manganese (Mn+2) at 10−3 to 50 mM in production medium. In this concentration range, toxin production was reduced by as much as 92%, while mycelial dry weight increased by as much as 50%. A rapid decline in pH accompanied the increased mycelial growth and intracellular accumulation of a yellow pigment. This inhibitory effect of Mn+2 on 3-ADN production was reversed by the presence of sodium citrate, sodium pyruvate, sodium acetate, or the chelating agent ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) in the medium but not by the presence of other organic acids of the tricarboxylic acid cycle or the protein synthesis inhibitors, chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Evidence indicates that citric acid was playing a crucial role in 3-ADN biosynthesis and that Mn+2 was acting on the isocitrate dehydrogenase and acetyl coenzyme-A carboxylase sites to inhibit the toxin biosynthesis.
Satellite sensor estimates of Northern Hemisphere snow volume

In the Northern Hemisphere the mean monthly snow-covered area ranges from about 7 percent of the land area in summer to over 40 percent in winter, thus making snow one of the most rapidly varying natural surface features. The mean monthly snow volume ranges from about 1.5 x 10 to the 16th g in summer to about 3.0 x 10 to the 18th g in winter. Currently several algorithms utilizing passive microwave brightness temperatures are available to estimate snow cover and depth. The algorithm presented here uses the difference between the 37-GHz channel and the 18-GHz channel of the SMMR on the Nimbus-7 satellite to derive estimates of snow volume. Even though satellite sensor snow records are currently too short to reveal trends, continued monitoring over about the next 10 years should make it possible to establish whether incipient or current trends are significant in the context of global climate change.
Identity discourse: problems, presuppositions and educational practice

States that identity discourse is one of the most significant ideas of our time but significant problems have arisen within this area of scholarship. Cites five problem areas as essentializing social groups, categorizing individuals automatically and superficially, failing to recognize the power/knowledge dynamic, marginalizing disparate voices and totalizing the individual. Suggests that these can be fruitfully re‐examined in light of competing presuppositional philosophies relevant to identity: rationalist and constructionalist. Discusses how each perspective is potentially beneficial to educators in this field and considers how they may be employed in their work with students and the curriculum.
Numerical Study on Performance of Solar Chimney for Building Ventilation

Ventilation is air circulation inside a building. Two main approaches can be applied for building ventilation: (1) a fan is used to drive the airflow, and (2) natural convection due to temperature difference is used to drive the airflow. The cost of electricity on ventilation is significant, especially when it is considered together with space cooling. The second approach can take advantage of the renewable resource such as solar energy to lower energy cost. This paper presents a numerical model to investigate the solar chimney performance. Several configurations of solar chimney are examined in this study to predict the ventilation of the building. The commercial software package, Fluent, is adopted. The effect of solar chimney height, air gap width as well as the brick width is investigated. It is found that the flow rate increases by 100% as the chimney height increases from 1.5 to 3 m, while the air gap width has much smaller influence. It also shows that the solar chimney works for different seasons although the solar radiation changes significantly. In addition, using an unsteady state model, it can be observed that the chimney with 0.3 m thick brick wall can work the whole day even in the night. It is expected that this research can help design the solar chimney in a better way.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Monitoring low-dose warfarin therapy by a central laboratory and implications for clinical trials and patient care

Abstract In conclusion, the central laboratory provides INR results in close agreement with the local laboratory for monitoring the anticoagulant effect of low-dose warfarin. The findings suggest further evaluation of the central laboratory to monitor adjusted warfarin therapy at currently recommended therapeutic ranges. 13 The cost-effectiveness of using a central laboratory should also be evaluated.
Behaviorally Mediated Larval Transport in Upwelling Systems

Highly advective upwelling systems along the western margins of continents are widely believed to transport larvae far offshore in surface currents resulting in larval wastage, limited recruitment, and increased population connectivity. However, suites of larval behaviors effectively mediate interspecific differences in the extent of cross-shelf migrations between nearshore adult habitats and offshore larval habitats. Interspecific differences in behavior determining whether larvae complete development in estuaries or migrate to the continental shelf are evident in large estuaries, but they sometimes may be disrupted by turbulent tidal flow or the absence of a low-salinity cue in shallow, low-flow estuaries, which are widespread in upwelling systems. Larvae of most species on the continental shelf complete development in the coastal boundary layer of reduced flow, whereas other species migrate to the mid- or outer shelf depending on how much time is spent in surface currents. These migrations are maintained across latitudinal differences in the strength and persistence of upwelling, in upwelling jets at headlands, over upwelling-relaxation cycles, and among years of varying upwelling intensity. Incorporating larval behaviors into numerical models demonstrates that larvae recruit closer to home and in higher numbers than when larvae disperse passively or remain in surface currents.
Laser Induced Atomic Coherence and Interference in Cold Atoms

We report experimental studies of electro magnetically induced transparency and enhancement of third-order optical nonlinearities in A-type atomic systems realized in 87Rb atoms cooled and confined in a magneto-optical trap. We observed complete transparency of a weak probe laser in the A type Rb system with a moderate coupling field. With a third pump laser tuned to a fourth atomic state, the atomic system exhibits the interference-enhanced third-order susceptibility and only absorbs two photons, but not one photon. Our experiment demonstrates large nonlinear absorption of the weak probe laser, from which greatly enhanced Kerr nonlinearity in the Rb system is inferred.
Plasma resistin concentration, hepatic fat content, and hepatic and peripheral insulin resistance in pioglitazone-treated type II diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVES: To study the effect of pioglitazone (PIO) on plasma resistin concentration, endogenous glucose production (EGP), and hepatic fat content (HFC) in patients with type II diabetes (T2DM). SUBJECTS: A total of 13 T2DM patients (age=51±2 y, BMI=29.7±1.1 kg/m2, HbA1c=8.0±0.5%). METHODS: HFC (magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and basal plasma resistin concentration were quantitated before and after PIO treatment (45 mg/day) for 16 weeks. Subjects received a 3 h euglycemic insulin (100 mU/m2/min) clamp with 3-[3H] glucose to determine rates of EGP and tissue glucose disappearance (Rd) before and after PIO. RESULTS: PIO reduced fasting plasma glucose (10.3±0.7 to 7.6±0.6 mmol/l, P<0.001) and HbA1c (8.0±0.4 to 6.8±0.3%, P<0.001) despite increased body weight (83.2±3.4 to 86.3±3.4 kg, P<0.001). PIO improved Rd (4.9±0.4 to 6.6±0.5 mg/kg/min, P<0.005) and reduced EGP (0.22±0.04 to 0.06±0.02 mg/kg/min, P<0.01) during the insulin clamp. Following PIO, HFC decreased from 21.1±3.5 to 11.2±2.1% (P<0.005), and plasma resistin decreased from 5.3±0.6 to 3.5±0.3 ng/ml (P<0.01). Plasma resistin concentration correlated positively with HFC before (r=0.58, P<0.05) and after (r=0.55, P<0.05) PIO treatment. Taken collectively, plasma resistin concentration, before and after PIO treatment, correlated positively with hepatic fat content (r=0.66, P<0.001) and EGP during the insulin clamp (r=0.41, P<0.05). However, the plasma resistin concentration did not correlate with whole body glucose disposal (Rd) during the insulin clamp either before (r=−0.18, P=NS) or after (r=−0.13, P=NS) PIO treatment. CONCLUSIONS: PIO treatment in T2DM causes a significant decrease in plasma resistin concentration. The decrease in plasma resistin is positively correlated with the decrease in hepatic fat content and improvement in hepatic insulin sensitivity.
X-ray absorption in polymers☆

Abstract We report on the results of a series of X-ray absorption experiments utilizing synchrotron radiation on the polymeric conductors, brominated (SN) x , and (CH) x doped with AsF 5 . These experiments employ the K-edges of bromine and arsenic at 13.47 keV and 11.89 keV, respectively, for the study of the short range order in the vicinity of the source atom. This information is supplied by the backscattering effect of the surrounding coordination shells on the ejected K-shell electron (EXAFS). In addition, the edge region fine structure is studied to deduce information on the molecular species present (Br 2 orBr 3 − in (SN) x , AsF 5 orAsF 6 − in (CH) x ). Experiments were performed over a range of temperatures between 5 K and room temperature to check the relevant distance parameters and charge transfer for their temperature dependence. Nearest and second nearest neighbor distances are given for the bromine species in (SN) x , while an average AsF distance for the arsenic species in (CH) x is found to be somewhat larger than for AsF 5 gas molecules. The advantages of X-ray absorption spectroscopy over other methods such as XPS and UPS for the resolution of chemical questions in partially disordered systems are stressed, particularly, the bulk sensitivity of X-ray absorption vis-a-vis the surface escape depth problems of the other techniques.
Mediation of Epstein-Barr virus EBNA-LP transcriptional coactivation by Sp100.

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) EBNA-LP protein is important for EBV-mediated B-cell immortalization and is a potent gene-specific coactivator of the viral transcriptional activator, EBNA2. The mechanism(s) by which EBNA-LP functions as a coactivator remains an important question in the biology of EBV-induced B-cell immortalization. In this study, we found that EBNA-LP interacts with the promyelocytic leukemia nuclear body (PML NB)-associated protein Sp100 and displaces Sp100 and heterochromatin protein 1α (HP1α) from PML NBs. Interaction between EBNA-LP and Sp100 was mediated through conserved region 3 in EBNA-LP and the PML NB targeting domain in Sp100. Overexpression of Sp100 lacking the N-terminal PML NB targeting domain, but not a mutant form of Sp100 lacking the HP1α interaction domain, was sufficient to coactivate EBNA2 in a gene-specific manner independent of EBNA-LP. These findings suggest that Sp100 is a major mediator of EBNA-LP coactivation. These studies indicate that modulation of PML NB-associated proteins may be important for establishment of latent viral infections, and also identify a convenient model system to investigate the functions of Sp100.
Tracking Waves and Vortex Nucleation in Excitable Systems with Anomalous Dispersion

We report experimental results obtained from a chemical reaction-diffusion system in which wave propagation is limited to a finite band of wavelengths and in which no solitary pulses exist. Wave patterns increase their size through repeated annihilation events of the frontier pulse that allow the succeeding pulses to advance farther. A related type of wave dynamics involves a stable but slow frontier pulse that annihilates subsequent waves in front-to-back collisions. These so-called merging dynamics give rise to an unexpected form of spiral wave nucleation. All of these phenomena are reproduced by a simple, three-species reaction-diffusion model that reveals the importance of the underlying anomalous dispersion relation.
Meeting the Family: Promoting Humanism in Gross Anatomy

Background: Human dissection commonly occurs early in the undergraduate medical school curriculum, thus presenting an immediate opportunity for educators to teach and encourage humanistic qualities of respect, empathy, and compassion. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the impact of the Donor Luncheon, a unique program in which medical students meet the families of the anatomical donor prior to dissection in the anatomy course at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Methods: Students were randomized into groups of 8 to attend the luncheon and either met with family of the donor or attended the luncheon with no donor family present. A questionnaire measured students’ attitudes at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and at the conclusion of the anatomy course. Results: Factor analysis revealed 5 scales. Analysis revealed statistically significant differences across time for Donor as Person, Dissection Process, and Donor as Patient and statistically significant differences between groups for Donor as...
Estrogen and thyroid hormone receptor interactions: Physiological flexibility by molecular specificity

The influence of thyroid hormone on estrogen actions has been demonstrated both in vivo and in vitro. In transient transfection assays, the effects of liganded thyroid hormone receptors (TR) on transcriptional facilitation by estrogens bound to estrogen receptors (ER) display specificity according to the following: 1) ER isoform, 2) TR isoform, 3) the promoter through which transcriptional facilitation occurs, and 4) cell type. Some of these molecular phenomena may be related to thyroid hormone signaling of seasonal limitations upon reproduction. The various combinations of these molecular interactions provide multiple and flexible opportunities for relations between two major hormonal systems important for neuroendocrine feedbacks and reproductive behaviors.
Energy Crossovers in Nanocrystalline Zirconia

The synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of zirconia often produces the tetragonal phase, which for coarse-grained powders is stable only at high temperatures and transforms into the monoclinic form on cooling. This stability reversal has been suggested to be due to differences in the surface energies of the monoclinic and tetragonal polymorphs. In the present study, we have used high-temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry to test this hypothesis directly. We measured the excess enthalpies of nanocrystalline tetragonal, monoclinic, and amorphous zirconia. Monoclinic ZrO 2 was found to have the largest surface enthalpy and amorphous zirconia the smallest. Stability crossovers with increasing surface area between monoclinic, tetragonal, and amorphous zirconia were confirmed. The surface enthalpy of amorphous zirconia was estimated to be 0.5 J/m 2 . The linear fit of excess enthalpies for nanocrystalline zirconia, as a function of area from nitrogen adsorption (BET) gave apparent surface enthalpies of 6.4 and 2.1 J/m , for the monoclinic and tetragonal polymorphs, respectively. Due to aggregation, the surface areas calculated from crystallite size are larger than those measured by BET. The fit of enthalpy versus calculated total interface/ surface area gave surface enthalpies of 4.2 J/m 2 for the monoclinic form and 0.9 J/m 2 for the tetragonal polymorph. From solution calorimetry, the enthalpy of the monoclinic to tetragonal phase transition for ZrO 2 was estimated to be 10 ± 1 kJ/mol and amorphization enthalpy to be 34±2 kJ/mol.
Simulating a combination of feebates and scrappage incentives to reduce automobile emissions

This article explains a computer simulation analysis of financial incentives to promote the sale and use of cleaner vehicles. The analysis focuses first on feebates, a combination of fees and rebates to promote the sale of cleaner new vehicles. The analysis assumes that buyers of new cars may chose between vehicles fueled by gasoline, alcohol, electricity and compressed natural gas. The market shares for new car sales are based on a discrete-choice model estimated from a stated preference survey in California. The analysis is conducted for a hypothetical air shed to illustrate the feasibility of the simulation method. The simulation analysis shows that feebates can lead to important reductions in hydrocarbon emissions, but the reductions will appear gradually as the newer vehicles displace the older vehicles in the air shed. The analysis then focuses on the emissions reduction that could be achieved by scrappage payments to induce early retirement of older cars. The analysis shows that scrappage payments can lead to large, immediate reduction in emissions. The article concludes with a simulation analysis of a combination of scrappage payments and feebates to achieve both immediate and sustained reductions in vehicle emissions. The simulations demonstrate that the emissions reductions could be achieved with rebates and scrappage payments drawn from a single fund financed by the fees imposed on the sale of new cars with high emissions.
INTERFACIAL SHEAR EFFECT ON HERRINGBONE PATTERN OF THIN FILMS ON COMPLIANT SUBSTRATES

A stiff thin film on a heated compliant substrate may buckle when the system is cooled due to the thermal expansion mismatch between the film and substrate. Highly ordered herringbone patterns are observed as the system continues to cool. A theoretical model for the herringbone pattern coupling the interfacial shear traction is developed to understand the underlying mechanism. It is shown that the interfacial shear traction plays a key role on the formation of the herringbone pattern. Its effects on the buckling wavelength and amplitude are also given in the paper. The results agree well with experiments and therefore provide valuable guide to the precise design and control of the buckling profile in many applications ranging from stretchable electronics to micro/nanoscale surface patterning and precision metrology.