cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Activation by phosphorylation and purification of human c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) isoforms in milligram amounts

c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) are part of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascade. They are activated through dual phosphorylation of two residues in the activation loop, a threonine and a tyrosine, by MAP2 kinases (MKK4 and 7) in response to various extracellular stresses such as UV or osmotic shock, as well as by cytokines and growth factors. Only small amounts of phosphorylated, active JNKs have previously been produced because of difficulties in expressing these phosphorylated kinases in Escherichia coli, which lack the appropriate upstream kinases. We have now established a novel activation and purification method that allows for reproducible production of milligram amounts of active, phosphorylated JNKs suitable for a variety of enzymatic, biophysical and structural characterizations. We utilize N-terminally His-tagged MKK4 that is coexpressed in E. coli with a constitutively active form of MEKK1. This phosphorylated, active His-MKK4 is purified by Ni-NTA chromatography and used to phosphorylate milligram amounts of three different isoforms of human JNKs (JNK1α1, JNK1α2 and JNK2α2) that had separately been expressed and purified from E. coli in their inactive forms. These in vitro activated JNKs are phosphorylated on both residues (T183, Y185) in their activation loops and are active towards their substrate, ATF2.
Inhibition of estrone sulfatase and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase by antiestrogens

Circulating estrone sulfate levels are 10-fold higher than the free estrone and estradiol levels in postmenopausal women and could form a reservoir from which the free estrogens could be synthesized in situ in breast cancer tissues. The enzymes catalyzing conversion of estrone sulfate to free estrone and estradiol are estrone sulfatase and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, respectively. Selective blockade of these two enzymes may provide a means of reducing tumor estrogen levels and promoting tumor regression. The present study characterized the kinetics of several potential inhibitors of estrone sulfatase and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in vitro in rat breast tumors and compared these effects to those in human tissues. The antiestrogen ICI 164384 as well as tamoxifen and its metabolites inhibit estrone sulfatase via noncompetitive mechanisms at Kis ranging from 11-1130 microM in rat breast tumors. The steroid sulfates (pregnenolone sulfate and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) on the other hand, act as competitive inhibitors with Kis ranging from 4 to 6 microM. ICI 164384 and the tamoxifen metabolite 4-hydroxytamoxifen also blocked 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase at concentrations of 470 and 275 microM, respectively. In human breast tumors, 4-hydroxytamoxifen and desmethyltamoxifen blocked estrone sulfatase and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase but at higher concentrations than in the rat (i.e. IC50s of 1000-2000 microM). The inhibition caused by the antiestrogens requires concentrations at least 100-fold higher than those necessary for antiestrogenic effects. Although blockade of enzyme action is significant in vitro, and could also be in vivo, the effects of antiestrogens on enzyme inhibition are likely to be outweighed by their ability to block estrogen receptor-mediated effects in patients.
Cbl- and Nedd4-family ubiquitin ligases: balancing tolerance and immunity.

Engagement of the T cell receptor (TCR) with its cognate peptide/MHC initiates a cascade of signaling events that results in T cell activation. Limiting the extent and duration of TCR signaling ensures a tightly constrained response, protecting cells from the deleterious impact of chronic activation. In order to limit the duration of activation, T cells must adjust levels of key signaling proteins. This can be accomplished by altering protein synthesis or by changing the rate of protein degradation. Ubiquitination is a process of ‘tagging’ a protein with ubiquitin and is one means of initiating protein degradation. This process is activated when an E3 ubiquitin ligase mediates the transfer of ubiquitin to a target protein. Accordingly, E3 ubiquitin ligases have recently emerged as key regulators of immune cell function. This review will explore how a small group of E3 ubiquitin ligases regulate T cell responses and thus direct adaptive immunity.
Technology tools for enhancing English literacy skills

The goal of this work is to explore the role of technology tools in enhancing the teaching and learning processes for English as a foreign or second language. Literacy is a crucial skill that is often linked to quality of life. However, access to literacy is not universal. Therefore, the significance of this research is its potential impact on the global challenge of improving child and adult literacy rates. Today's globalized world often demands strong English literacy skills for success because the language of instruction and business is frequently English. Even in Qatar's efforts to create a knowledge economy, Education City was established with the majority of instruction in English. Moreover, NGOs such as Reach Out to Asia are partnering with Education City universities to teach English literacy to migrant laborers in Qatar. Many migrant workers reside and work in Qatar for many years and can often improve their job prospects if they speak and understand English. However, Qatar's English literacy pro...
Systemic effects of single hindlimb burn injury on skeletal muscle function and cyclic nucleotide levels in the murine model.

Abstract This study tested the hypothesis that a single hindlimb burn has both local and distant effects. Male CF 1 anaesthetized mice were given a full thickness scald burn of 3 per cent total body surface area (BSA) by immersion of their left hindlimb in water at 95°C for 5 s. Muscle tension was measured through twitch analysis. Levels of cyclic adenosine 3′–5′ monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine 3′–5′ monophosphate (cGMP) were analysed by 125 I-radioimmunoassay. Measurements were made in gastrocnemei of the ipsilateral burned and contralateral unburned limbs over a 28-day postburn period. Within 1 week the burned limb showed an increase in both tension and a 100-fold increase in levels of cAMP. However, by the end of the second week muscle tension in the burned limb dropped to one-seventh of control values despite persistence of high levels of cAMP. In contrast, the systemic effects were manifested in the unburned contralateral limb which showed tension to undergo a six-fold compensatory increase at the end of the second week with a 75-fold increase in cAMP. By the end of 4 weeks, tension levels of both burned and unburned limbs were attenuated to one-half control values indicating neuromuscular (NM) dysfunction. Nevertheless, cAMP levels remained elevated in both limbs. Levels of cGMP were reduced throughout the 4-week postburn period. Subsequent to the single hindlimb injury both ipsilateral and contralateral gastrocnemei muscles showed elevated levels of total protein content. Thus, in addition to the local effect of burn on the ipsilateral hindlimb, other systemic mediators are involved which influence contralateral limb tension and cyclic nucleotide metabolism. These findings are important to emerging pharmacological therapies undergoing development to combat NM dysfunction resulting from burn injury.
Rat ovarian subcellular compartmentalization of luteinizing hormone.

Abstract To determine if human luteinizing hormone (hLH) follows the same subcellular route in the pseudopregnant rat ovary as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the distribution of immunoreactive and bioactive hLH within cytosol, lysosomes, and a combined plasma membrane/prelysosomal vesicle fraction was examined. Immunoreactive levels were determined using a specific radioimmunoassay and bioactive levels were determined in an in vitro Leydig cell bioassay. Low cytosolic hLH levels were apparent the first few hours after hLH administration and may reflect at least some contamination by serum and interstitial fluid. Plasma membrane/prelysosomal vesicles attained the highest hLH concentration 1 h after hLH injection, after which hLH levels declined rapidly until barely detectable levels were observed at 18 h. The hormone in this fraction was receptor bound and exhibited the highest bioactivity of the three fractions examined. Lysosomal hLH concentrations were highest at 12 after hLH injection and were maintained at high levels through 18 h. Substantial amounts of lysosomal hLH appeared to be receptor bound but this hormone was not bioactive. In situ degradation of the oligosaccharides may have occurred while lysosomal hLH was receptor bound. Lysosomal degradation is the major pathway for hLH inactivation as has been described for hCG. However, hLH may be degraded within lysosomes more quickly than hCG. The differential subcellular distribution of immunoreactive and bioactive hLH provides strong support for hLH internalization and degradation within ovarian luteal cells.
Effect of selected biographical factors on faculty perceptions of law school deans' leader behavior

In this study, it was found that there was a significant difference between the leader behavior of law school deans (Consideration and Initiating Structure) as self-perceived and as perceived by their faculties and that age, sex, academic rank, formal education, and years of teaching experience of the faculties accounted for discrepancies between perceptions of the leader behavior of law school deans (Consideration and Initiating Structure) as self-perceived and as perceived by their faculties.
A spin-label study of horse erythrocyte carbonic anhydrases C and D

Abstract 1. 1. The topography of the active sites of horse erythrocyte carbonic anhydrases C and D has been studied by means of a series of spin-labeled sulfanilamide analogs. 2. 2. The active site of horse carbonic anhydrase D is a narrow cleft approximately 14 A in depth. The active site of horse carbonic anhydrase C is similar to that of the D isozyme but somewhat deeper. 3. 3. A comparison of horse erythrocyte carbonic anhydrases with the human erythrocyte carbonic anhydrases B and C indicates that the low activity enzymes (horse D and human B) have narrower active sites than the higher activity isozymes (horse C and human C).
Metabolic Regulation of Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Expression via Essential Amino Acid Deprivation

Organisms respond to available nutrient levels by rapidly adjusting metabolic flux, in part through changes in gene expression. A consequence of adaptations in metabolic rate is the production of mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species. Therefore, we hypothesized that nutrient sensing could regulate the synthesis of the primary defense of the cell against superoxide radicals, manganese superoxide dismutase. Our data establish a novel nutrient-sensing pathway for manganese superoxide dismutase expression mediated through essential amino acid depletion concurrent with an increase in cellular viability. Most relevantly, our results are divergent from current mechanisms governing amino acid-dependent gene regulation. This pathway requires the presence of glutamine, signaling via the tricarboxylic acid cycle/electron transport chain, an intact mitochondrial membrane potential, and the activity of both the MEK/ERK and mammalian target of rapamycin kinases. Our results provide evidence for convergence of metabolic cues with nutrient control of antioxidant gene regulation, revealing a potential signaling strategy that impacts free radical-mediated mutations with implications in cancer and aging.
Synthesis of conformationally constrained cyclic peptides using an intramolecular sonogashira coupling.

Small peptides having a 3-bromobenzyl group at the C-termini and n-alkynoyl group at the N-termini undergo a smooth copper-free intramolecular Sonogashira coupling reaction to afford the corresponding cyclic peptides in moderate yields. Scope and limitations of this macrocyclization is demonstrated with di-, tri-, and tetrapeptides.
Sp1 and ETS family transcription factors regulate the mouse Mta2 gene expression

Dynamic changes in chromatin structure through nucleosome remodelling and core histone tail acetylation play important roles in transcriptional regulation. The purification and functional characterization of a nucleosome remodelling and histone deacetylase complex, NuRD, has suggested that nucleosome remodelling and core histone tail modification are potentially linked processes. MTA2, a component of the NuRD complex, plays an important role in regulating histone deacetylase activity of the NuRD complex. Similar to the candidate metastasis associated protein MTA1, an elevated level of MTA2 correlates with cellular proliferation. To understand the regulation of Mta2 transcription, we characterized the mouse Mta2 gene and its transcriptional regulatory elements. We found that MTA2 is encoded by 18 exons that span 10 kb. Primer extension analysis identified a major transcriptional start site locates 259 base pairs upstream of the ATG translational start codon. Transient transfection studies localized its promoter, lacking a canonical TATA box, to within 60 base pairs upstream of the transcriptional start site. Gel-mobility-shift and mutagenesis studies revealed that Sp1 and ETS elements play important roles in regulating Mta2 transcription. Information concerning the regulation of the Mta2 gene expression will be useful in understanding the regulation of NuRD histone deacetylase activity, which in turn will help in our general understanding of the transcriptional repression mechanism.
Effects of intracameral administration of α-chymotrypsin on intracapsular lens extraction and postoperative outcome in clinically normal dogs.

Objective—To assess the intraoperative and postoperative clinical effects and histologic effects of intracameral administration of α-chymotrypsin in clinically normal dogs undergoing standard intracapsular lens extraction (ICLE). Animals—6 young adult male dogs without evidence of systemic or ocular disease. Procedures—All dogs underwent bilateral ICLE 7 minutes following injection of 75 U of α-chymotrypsin or an identical volume (0.5 mL) of a commercially available balanced saline solution (BSS) into the posterior chamber of the eye. Ease of lens extraction was subjectively assessed and intraoperative intraocular hemorrhage and fibrin accumulation scored. For 27 days after surgery, ocular hyperemia and discharge, chemosis, corneal edema, hyphema, and aqueous flare were scored, and intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured. Thirty days after surgery, histologic evidence of anterior synechia, collapse of and inflammation within the iridocorneal angle, and iritis were scored. Results—In 5 of 6 dogs, the surge...
The phase stability diagrams for the systems Nd2CuO4-δ and Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4-δ

Abstract The dependences of the degrees of oxygen nonstoichiometry in Nd2CuO4-δ and Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4-δ on temperature and oxygen pressure have been determined by thermogravimetric measurements in the range of temperature 350–950°C and the range of oxygen pressure 10−5−1 atm. The nature of the decomposition of these oxides in the range of oxygen pressure 10−5−1 atm has been determined by thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction. In the solid state, decreasing oxygen pressure causes Nd2CuO4-δ to decompose to NdCuO2 + Nd2O3 and then to Nd2O3 + Cu2O. The solid solution Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4δ decomposes to Nd2O3 + NdCeO3.5 + Cu2O. The solidus line of incongruent melting has been determined in the range of oxygen partial pressure 10−6−1 atm by differential thermal analysis and the phases formed on solidification have been identified by X-ray diffraction. The phase stability diagrams for Nd2CuO4-δ and Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4-δ have been constructed. The dependence of the onset of superconductivity in Nd1.85Ce0.15CuO4-δ on the oxygen pressure and temperature at which the specimen was annealed, and hence on the oxygen nonstoichiometry, has been determined.
Exact ground-state properties of the SU(2) Hamiltonian lattice gauge theory

The SU(2) Hamiltonian lattice gauge theory is shown explicitly to be equivalent to a nonrelativistic quantum many-body problem in S3. By exploiting this equivalence, a many-body Monte Carlo algorithm is devised to solve for its ground-state properties. To the extent that a trial wave function consisting of a product of single-plaquette functions is a good approximation to the exact ground state, the present Monte Carlo method is shown to be an efficient means of calculating the ground-state energy with high precision.
Cryotherapy in advanced prostatic cancer

Abstract In 39 patients with metastatic cancer of the prostate and with pain refractory to orchiectomy and estrogens at the site of metastases, sequential cryotherapy to the prostate was utilized in an attempt to palliate the pain. An excellent result was achieved in 20 patients. The response lasted from six weeks to three years after cryotherapy. Possible mechanisms for this response are discussed. Early use of cryotherapy is suggested to obtain maximum immunologic response in patients with prostatic cancer.
Applications of laser ranging to ocean, ice, and land topography

The current status and some future applications of satellite laser ranging (SLR) are briefly reviewed. The demonstrated subcentimeter precision of ground-based SLR systems is attracting new users, particularly, in the area of high-resolution ocean, ice, and land topography. Future airborne or spaceborne SLR system will not only provide topographic data with a horizontal and vertical resolution never achieved previously, but, in addition, ground-based SLR systems, via precise tracking of spaceborne microwave and laser altimeters, will permit the expression of the topographic surface in a common geocentric reference frame.
Poultry Research and the Contract Payment-Net Return Paradox

Abstract The purpose of the study was to illustrate the effects of the expenditure of public and private funds on basic and applied poultry research using the experience of broiler growers as an example. The cost of broiler housing was calculated for a 30-yr period from 1958 to 1987. Contract payments and net returns were calculated for 1958, 1973, and 1987. The results document a paradox. In 1987 dollars, over the period studied, contract payment per kilogram declined and cost per square meter of broiler housing increased, but return on invested capital grew. Specifically, grower contract payments declined from 14.1¢ to 8.8¢/kg of broiler in 1987 dollars, and the cost per square meter for broiler houses and equipment increased from $22.94 to $47.52, also in 1987 dollars but the cash flow rate of return on invested capital over the low-risk government long-term bond rate increased from 2.4 to 7.2%. This apparent paradox was created by the effect of technological advances driven by public and private research expenditures during the last several decades.
Studying nuclear disassembly in vitro using Xenopus egg extract

Xenopus egg extract provides an extremely powerful approach in the study of cell cycle regulated aspects of nuclear form and function. Each egg contains enough membrane and protein components to support multiple rounds of cell division. Remarkably, incubation of egg extract with DNA in the presence of an energy regeneration system is sufficient to induce formation of a nuclear envelope around DNA. In addition, these in vitro nuclei contain functional nuclear pore complexes, which form de novo and are capable of supporting nucleocytoplasmic transport. Mitotic entry can be induced by the addition of recombinant cyclin to an interphase extract. This initiates signaling that leads to disassembly of the nuclei. Thus, this cell-free system can be used to decipher events involved in mitotic remodeling of the nuclear envelope such as changes in nuclear pore permeability, dispersal of membrane, and disassembly of the lamina. Both general mechanisms and individual players required for orchestrating these events can be identified via biochemical manipulation of the egg extract. Here, we describe a procedure for the assembly and disassembly of in vitro nuclei, including the production of Xenopus egg extract and sperm chromatin DNA.
Central Bank Intervention and Heterogeneous Exchange Rate Expectations: Evidence from the Daily DEM/US-Dollar Exchange Rate

In this paper we propose a generalisation of the noise trader transmission mechanism to examine the impact of central bank intervention on exchange rates. Within a heterogeneous expectation exchange rate model intervention operations are supposed to provide support for chartist or fundamentalist forecasts, which forces portfolio managers to adjust their foreign currency positions. The empirical examination of the hypothesis is done by applying a Markov regime-switching approach to daily DEM/US-dollar exchange rates and intervention data of the Deutsche Bundesbank and the Federal Reserve from 1979 to 1992. It is shown that chartist’s profits rose whenever these central banks intervened on the foreign exchange market. This is not true for those who follow a fundamentalist approach.
The effect of non-steady wall shear on pressure surges in conduits carrying viscous liquids

A study is made of the attenuation of pressure surges in a two-dimension a channel carrying a viscous liquid when a valve at the downstream end is suddenly closed. The analysis differs from previous work in this area by taking into account the transient nature of the wall shear, which in the past has been assumed as equivalent to that existing in steady flow. For large values of the frictional resistance parameter the transient wall shear analysis results in less attenuation than given by the steady wall shear assumption.
Type A achievement striving and failure to achieve personal goals

The purpose of the present study was to examine relations involving the Type A behavior pattern, goal-setting behavior, and goal achievement. Type A and B subjects completed two sequential general information tests. On each test, subjects were required to establish a performance goal prior to the test, and after completing the test, subjects were given feedback on their actual performance. On both tests, results confirmed that Type A's, compared to Type B's, set significantly higher performance goals, performed no differently, showed significantly larger discrepancies between performance and goals, were significantly less likely to achieve their performance goal. Furthermore, it was found that Type A's set goals on test 2 that exceeded their test 1 performance to a greater extent than Type B's, but only among subjects who failed to achieve their test 1 goals. No differences were found between Type A's and B's on goal-setting behavior following a success in goal achievement on test 1. Results of the experiment suggest that Type A achievement striving represents a breakdown in achievement-related self-regulation, which may have negative psychological consequences associated with failure to achieve personal goals.
PPPS-2013: Direct simulation of laser-HED plasma interaction in extended MHD

Summary form only given. The interaction of intense high-frequency EM radiation with high energy density (HED) Aluminum plasma is studied using the extended MHD (XMHD) code PERSEUS1. The PERSEUS code solves the XMHD equations using a relaxation method that allows time steps much larger than the electron plasma period and is only restricted by the speed of light transit time across a computational cell. This allows us to study HED plasmas in the MHD regime, but still take into account the effects of the Hall, electron pressure, and electron inertial terms. The purpose of this study is to understand the differences between the MHD and XMHD models for EM-plasma interaction in the HED regime. We consider two approaches that are in principle equivalent, but in practice are very different.
Thermodynamics of DNA Binding and Distortion by the Hyperthermophile Chromatin Protein Sac7d

Sac7d is a hyperthermophile chromatin protein which binds non-specifically to the minor groove of duplex DNA and induces a sharp kink of 66 degrees with intercalation of valine and methionine side-chains. We have utilized the thermal stability of Sac7d and the lack of sequence specificity to define the thermodynamics of DNA binding over a wide temperature range. The binding affinity for poly(dGdC) was moderate at 25 degrees C (Ka = 3.5(+/-1.6) x 10(6) M(-1)) and increased by nearly an order of magnitude from 10 degrees C to 80 degrees C. The enthalpy of binding was unfavorable at 25 degrees C, and decreased linearly from 5 degrees C to 60 degrees C. A positive binding heat at 25 degrees C is attributed in part to the energy of distorting DNA, and ensures that the temperature of maximal binding affinity (75.1+/-5.6 degrees C) is near the growth temperature of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. Truncation of the two intercalating residues to alanine led to a decreased ability to bend and unwind DNA at 25 degrees C with a small decrease in binding affinity. The energy gained from intercalation is slightly greater than the free energy penalty of bending duplex DNA. Surprisingly, reduced distortion from the double alanine substitution did not lead to a significant decrease in the heat of binding at 25 degrees C. In addition, an anomalous positive DeltaCp of binding was observed for the double alanine mutant protein which could not be explained by the change in polar and apolar accessible surface areas. Both the larger than expected binding enthalpy and the positive heat capacity can be explained by a temperature dependent structural transition in the protein-DNA complex with a Tm of 15-20 degrees C and a DeltaH of 15 kcal/mol. Data are discussed which indicate that the endothermic transition in the complex is consistent with DNA distortion.
An Experimental Study of Wave Propagation at 850 MC

The prediction of area coverage of a broadcast station is of prime importance. To do this requires the evaluation of the effects of such factors as wave refraction, earth reflection, diffraction, and attenuation. The following paper describes an experiment conducted at 850 mc which was undertaken to solve this problem. We have concluded that useful predictions of wave propagation can be made with free space theoretical field strength reduced by theoretical knife edge diffraction shadow loss and by suitable empirical experience factors.
THE NATURE OF URBAN SOILS: THEIR PROBLEMS AND FUTURE

Summary Urban soils are those that exist in or that are designed for the urban environment and that exhibit anthropeic characteristics. In many instances these characteristics present unfavorable conditions for plant growth. These conditions include: the loss of structure leading to compaction and its attendant decreased aeration, drainage, water- holding capacity and infiltration, and resistance to root penetration; interrupted organic matter cycling; and spatial and vertical variability which decreases their predictable nature. Our imperfect knowledge and expertise are challenged to modify or design them to meet the requirements of at least adequate plant (mainly tree) growth. Future effort requires more detailed soil specifications, greater sensitivity to environmental impact or sustainability by the use of soil substitutes, and more research on tree water utilization and rooting requirements.
Immunization of mice with induced mutants of Coccidioides immitis: I. Characterization of mutants and preliminary studies of their use as viable vaccines

Induced auxotrophic mutants of a human isolate of Coccidioides immitis were characterized as to their infection and/or disease causing capacity by intratesticular injection into guinea-pigs and by intranasal instillation into mice. These mutant strains demonstrated degrees of attenuation of virulence to avirulence. Considering this variability in infectivity, 3 of these strains were used as viable vaccines in mice. The results indicate that the individual mutants must produce a primary infection to establish immunity, and that effective immunity can be established which protects against infection up to a certain challenge dosage. Increasing the dosage of the vaccinating strain is given as a means of increasing the immunity of mice.Other characteristics of these mutants which may be related to their attenuation e.g. their nutritional requirements and growth temperature range, are discussed.
Transient Data Stream Dissociation in Computerized Data Acquisition System Masquerading as a Sensing Abnormality

During testing of a CPI model 1715 ICD, an apparent sensing abnormality was noted following shock delivery for VF. Close inspection of the recording prior to the defib-rillation attempt revealed that the surface leads spontaneously lost 848 ms of data while the event marker was unaffected. Computer simulations revealed that an inadequate buffer size for the ampHfied (surface ECC) data was the likely source of data loss. It is important to recognize tbat a discordance between surface leads and event marker may represent an abnormality in tlie data acquisition system and simulate an ICD or lead malfunction.
Bilateral abducens nerve palsy following ligamentous C1–C2 distraction

Purpose Posttraumatic abducens nerve palsy is well documented following head injury, but only few case reports exist on sixth nerve palsy after cervical spine trauma. Bilateral abducens palsy following vertical C1–C2 ligamentous distraction has not been described yet.
Simulation study of oscillatory vehicle roll behavior during fishhook Maneuvers

Sustained roll oscillations were observed while performing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) fishhook (FH) test on several vehicles. This phenomenon has also been observed on several manufacturers' high center of gravity (CG) vehicles with both solid and independent rear suspensions. Roll oscillation can be accompanied by non-convergent yaw, heave, and pitch. A study was initiated to quantify the influence of vehicle inertia, suspension, powertrain, and tire characteristics on the FH vehicle response. Design of experiments (DOE) methods were used to quantify the main effects and the significant interactions between vehicle design variables. The CarSim program was used to simulate the vehicle dynamics and the iSIGHT program was used to automate the DOE analysis. Summary findings show that tire lateral force high slip behavior influences yaw instability. This alone is not sufficient for developing diverging roll oscillations. Additionally, results show that suspension jounce travel and bumper rate, in conjunction with tire overturning moment and non-positive tire cornering stiffness, influence yaw, roll, and pitch stability. Simulation results suggest that the primary cause of roll oscillations is the transfer of some energy from the longitudinal mode into the roll and heave modes. This effect can also be influenced by other factors like the distance between the CG and the roll axis, yaw-roll cross product of inertia, for example. Also described is optimization of FH performance (minimization of wheel lift and roll oscillations) with respect to some suspension characteristics.
Removal of Nonconstant Daily Variation by Means of Wavelet and Functional Data Analysis

[1] We propose a novel approach based on wavelet and functional principal component analysis to produce a cleaner index of the intensity of the symmetric ring current. We use functional canonical correlations to show that the new approach more effectively extracts symmetric global features. The main result of our work is the construction of a new index, which is an improved version of the existing wavelet-based index (WISA) and the old Dst index, in which a constant daily variation is removed. Here, we address the fact that the daily component varies from day to day and construct a “cleaner” index by removing nonconstant daily variations.
New Insight into the Banded Microstructure of Rapidly Solidified Ag-Cu Alloys : Experiment and Theory

A transmission electron microscopy study has revealed that the banded microstructure produced in Cu-61.7 at. pct. Ag after surface laser melting and resolidification is not due to a cellular breakdown of the interface as previously thought, but consists of alternating regions of the extended metastable solid solution, y, and a coupled growth structure containing thin plates of y and the copper-rich phase β’. The spacing of this coupled growth structure is approximately 100 A, which is less than half the minimum spacing yet observed for coupled growth from the melt in Ag-Cu. In order to explain the banded microstructure a theoretical model has been developed based on a finite elements solution of the diffusion equation in the melt, the interface response functions for continuous growth derived by Aziz and Kaplan and a recently developed theory for coupled growth that includes far-from-equilibrium regimes by Yankov et al..
Thinking Outside the Box Multiple Identity Mind-Sets Affect Creative Problem Solving

Rigid thinking is associated with less creativity, suggesting that priming a flexible mind-set should boost creative thought. In three studies, we investigate whether priming multiple social identities predicts more creativity in domains unrelated to social identity. Study 1 asked monoracial and multiracial participants to write about their racial identities before assessing creativity. Priming a multiracial’s racial identity led to greater creativity compared to a no-prime control. Priming a monoracial’s racial identity did not affect creativity. Study 2 showed that reminding monoracials that they, too, have multiple identities increased creativity. Study 3 replicated this effect and demonstrated that priming a multiracial identity for monoracials did not affect creativity. These results are the first to investigate the association between flexible identities and flexible thinking, highlighting the potential for identity versatility to predict cognitive differences between individuals who have singular v...
A Bode Plot Characterization of All Stabilizing Controllers

In this technical note, we consider continuous-time control systems and present a new characterization of the Nyquist criterion in terms of Bode plots of the plant and the controller. This gives a nonparametric, and model independent characterization of arbitrary order stabilizing controllers. The result shows that the frequency response of any stabilizing controller must satisfy constraints on its magnitude, phase, and rate of change of phase at certain frequencies that are imposed by the frequency response of the inverse plant.
Effect of estradiol and progesterone on c‐myc expression in the sea star testis and the seasonal regulation of spermatogenesis

Analysis of the expression of cell cycle control genes provides a sensitive assay for mitotic and meiotic progression under experimental conditions. Transcription of the c-myc proto-oncogene and thymidine incorporation into DNA were both used to assay the mitogenic effects of estradiol and progesterone on the testicular germinal epithelium of the starfish Asterias vulgaris. Experimental in vitro studies during the annual spermatogenic cycle show that testes are not sensitive to mitotic stimulation by estradiol alone, whereas progesterone alone is mitotically inhibitory. The germinal epithelium can only be mitotically stimulated by estradiol after pretreatment with progesterone. The net increase in mitotic activity following a progesterone to estradiol transfer is dependent on the length of progesterone pretreatment. Overall, the seasonal pattern of testicular estradiol and progesterone levels evident in field populations of A. vulgaris (Hines et al., 1992a: Endocrinology 100:1468–1471) do not appear to be responsible for initiating spermatogonial mitosis at the onset of the annual spermatogenic cycle. Expression rates of the c-myc proto-oncogene are substantially more sensitive than thymidine incorporation in quantifying mitotic activity. Measuring proto-oncogene expression provides an ideal experimental approach to investigations of the regulatory mechanisms that control growth and reproduction in marine organisms. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Lender of Last Resort: Alternative Views and Historical Experience

Recent liquidity assistance to failing savings and loans and banks (some insolvent and some large) in the U.S. and similar rescues abroad have prompted renewed interest in the topic of the lender of last resort. Under the classical doctrine, the need for a lender of last resort arises in a fractional reserve banking system when a banking panic, defined as a massive scramble for high-powered money, threatens the money stock and, hence, the level of economic activity. The lender of last resort can allay an incipient panic by timely assurance that it will provide whatever high-powered money is required to satisfy the demand, either by offering liberal access to the discount window at a penalty rate or by open market purchases.
Ego depletion and its paradoxical effects on ethical decision making

Whereas previous research has shown that ego depletion can lead to an increase in unethical behavior, we suggest that this effect hinges on the social consensus of the unethical behavior. Drawing from theories on social consensus and dual-process decision-making, we hypothesize and confirm that ego depletion is associated with increased unethical behavior of comparatively low social consensus. We then find that, as hypothesized, ego depletion is associated with decreased unethical behavior of high social consensus (Studies 1 and 2). Results further suggest that, controlling for state self-control resources, depleted participants are less likely to engage in unethical behavior of high social consensus as a result of increased subjective fatigue (Study 3). Taken together, our findings challenge a widely-held assumption about the negative effects of ego depletion on ethical decision making.
Changes in Wildlife Communities Near Edges

Abstract: Wildlife managers and land managers have traditionally considered edges as beneficial to wildlife because species diversity generally increases near habitat edges. Explanations for this edge effect include greater vegetative complexity at edges or the simultaneous availability of more than one landscape element. However, edges can have negative consequences for wildlife by modifying distribution and dispersal and by increasing incidence of nest predation and parasitism Edges also may be detrimental to species requiring large undisturbed areas because increases in edge generally result in concommitant reductions in size and possible isolation of patches and corridots. Thus, both wildlife and land managers should be cautious when describing the benefits of edges to wildlife: particularly when dealing with species that require forest interiors. Changes in wildlife communities associated with habitat edges are not easily assessed because defining edge species and measuring edge dimensions can be difficult in field studies Also, there is no general consensus as to how edge effect is best measured. Well-designed long-term studies of edges in various landscapes are needed (1) to better understand the positive and negative impacts of edges on wildlife communities, guilds, or key species, and (2) to effectively quantify edge effect and thereby develop management recommendations to improve the quality of edges for wildlife. Additional studies of edge effect are timely because greater amounts of edge will continue to be created in future landscapes due to extensive agriculture and other land-use-practices, and because developing knowledge in conservation biology and landscape ecology will facilitate multidisciplinary approaches to edge and landscape management for the benefit of wildlife.
Complete Genomic Sequencing Shows that Polioviruses and Members of Human Enterovirus Species C Are Closely Related in the Noncapsid Coding Region

The 65 human enterovirus serotypes are currently classified into five species: Poliovirus (3 serotypes), Human enterovirus A (HEV-A) (12 serotypes), HEV-B (37 serotypes), HEV-C (11 serotypes), and HEV-D (2 serotypes). Coxsackie A virus (CAV) serotypes 1, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 24 constitute HEV-C. We have determined the complete genome sequences for the remaining nine HEV-C serotypes and compared them with the complete sequences of CAV21, CAV24, and the polioviruses. The viruses were most diverse in the capsid region (4 to 36% amino acid difference). A high degree of capsid sequence conservation (96% amino acid identity) suggests that CAV15 and CAV18 should be classified as strains of CAV11 and CAV13, respectively. In the 3CD region, CAV1, CAV19, and CAV22 differed from one another by only 1.2 to 1.4% and CAV11, CAV13, CAV17, CAV20, CAV21, CAV24, and the polioviruses differed from one another by only 1.2 to 3.6%. The two groups, however, differed from one another by 14.6 to 16.2%. The polioviruses as a group were monophyletic only in the capsid region. Only one group of serotypes (CAV1, CAV19, and CAV22) was consistently monophyletic in multiple genome regions. Incongruities among phylogenetic trees based on different genome regions strongly suggest that recombination has occurred between the polioviruses, CAV11, CAV13, CAV17, and CAV20. The close relationship among the polioviruses and CAV11, CAV13, CAV17, CAV20, CAV21, and CAV24 and the uniqueness of CAV1, CAV19, and CAV22 suggest that revisions should be made to the classification of these viruses.
Awareness and use of folic acid among women in the lower Mississippi Delta.

: Context: National and state efforts to increase folic acid awareness and use may not be reaching large segments of the population. Purpose: This study examines folic acid awareness and use among women of childbearing age in a representative, economically at-risk rural sample and identifies factors that influence awareness and use. Methods: A cross-sectional random digit dialing telephone survey was completed with a representative sample of 646 women aged 14-45 years in 36 counties of the lower Mississippi Delta. Folic acid awareness and supplement use were estimated by percentages weighted to reflect the 36-county population. Pregnancy intentions and the ability to become pregnant were used to predict awareness and use among a subsample of sexually active women. Findings: Compared to national samples, Delta women were less likely to have heard of folic acid (75% vs 64%) or to take a regular (5-7 days/wk) folic acid supplement (34% vs 22%). The proportion of women who took regular folic acid supplements was very low among some subgroups: African Americans (14%), those 14-19 years of age (12%), and those with low incomes (13%) and low educational levels (14%). Of the women who reported being sexually active, the ability to become pregnant more than doubled their likelihood of regular supplement use. Conclusions: The national folic acid campaign has not reached many women in the rural Mississippi Delta. A new mode of folic acid education is needed that is focused on low-income and young women and women not planning pregnancies. In the Delta and similar geographic regions, health care providers, black church leaders, and youth group leaders could be valuable advocates for folic acid.
Manual muscle testing: does it meet the standards of an adequate screening test?

Objective: To describe the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy of manual muscle testing.Design: Secondary analysis of cross-sectional strength data.Setting: Acute rehabilitation unit.Participants: Convenience sample of 107 consecutive qualifying rehabilitation inpatients.Intervention: Not applicable.Main outcome measures: Knee extension forces measured by manual muscle testing and hand-held dynamometry.Results: The ability of manual muscle testing to detect 15, 20, 25 and 30% between-side differences and deficits in knee extension force was described. Although the specificity of manual muscle testing was acceptable (mostly>80%), its sensitivity to differences between sides and to deficits relative to normal never exceeded 75%. Its diagnostic accuracy was never greater than 78%.Conclusion: The results of this study cast doubt on the suitability of manual muscle testing as a screening test for strength impairments.
Debunking a Myth: The Magyar-Romanian National Struggle of 1848–1849

I well remember as a child in Bucharest being taught by a reputable high school teacher that to speak kindly of Romanian-Magyar sympathizers was tantamount to asking for a failing grade. From elementary school on I can recall only the most disparaging remarks by my teachers about my Hungarian neighbors, and I challenge my friend Istvan Deak to say that sympathizers of the Romanians were ever more kindly treated in the lyceums of Budapest or Debrecen. Fortunately, we are sufficiently sophisticated today to realize that the writing of history is a matter of dates . I am, nevertheless, bewildered by the thought that the same Romanian schoolboy studying the revolutions of 1848 in classrooms of 1940, 1952, and 1976 has been and is being taught that the villains of yesterday are the heroes of today.
The effect of the geometry and material properties of a carbon joint produced by electron beam induced deposition on the electrical resistance of a multiwalled carbon nanotube-to-metal contact interface

Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) are promising candidates for yielding next generation electrical and electronic devices such as interconnects and tips for conductive force microscopy. One of the main challenges in MWNT implementation in such devices is the high contact resistance of the MWNT?metal electrode interface. Electron beam induced deposition (EBID) of an amorphous carbon interface has previously been demonstrated to simultaneously lower the electrical contact resistance and improve the mechanical characteristics of the MWNT?electrode connection. In this work, we investigate the influence of process parameters, such as the electron beam energy, current, geometry, and deposition time, on the EBID-made carbon joint geometry and electrical contact resistance. The influence of the composition of the deposited material on its resistivity is also investigated. The relative importance of each component of the contact resistance and the limiting factor of the overall electrical resistance of a MWNT-based interconnect is determined through a combination of a model analysis and comprehensive experiments.
Chemotherapy as treatment for colo-colonic intussusception associated with acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related lymphoma

A 49-YEAR-OLD MAN presented with a chief complaint of abdominal pain. The patient was known to be human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive, but had refused therapy with antiretroviral therapy until several weeks before this presentation. Over the prior 3 months, he had noted a 30-pound weight loss; during the previous week, he had noted early satiety, frequent bowel movements, and the onset of abdominal pain. Physical examination was remarkable for cachexia, diffuse adenopathy, a firm and tender mass in the right upper quadrant, lack of peritoneal signs, and the presence of stool in the rectal vault. Computed tomography (CT) revealed that the right upper quadrant mass represented the patient’s right colon intussuscepting into the transverse colon (Figure). Branches of the superior mesenteric vein and possibly the distal small bowel
Immunosuppressive Drug Therapy

The first successful kidney transplantation between monozygotic identical twins did not require any immunosuppressive drugs. Clinical application of azathioprine and glucocorticosteroids allowed the transfer of organs between genetically disparate donors and recipients. Transplantation is now the standard of care, a life-saving procedure for patients with failed organs. Progress in our understanding of the immunobiology of rejection has been translated to the development of immunosuppressive agents targeting T cells, B cells, plasma cells, costimulatory signals, complement products, and antidonor antibodies. Modern immunopharmacologic interventions have contributed to the clinical success observed following transplantation but challenges remain in personalizing immunosuppressive therapy.