cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is a Hypothetical Long Range Spin Interaction Observable with a Laboratory Detector

A quadrupole arrangement on a torsion pendulum of two polarized masses each having intrinsic spin ~ 1021h acts as a detector of hypothetical anomalous spin interactions. Unlike earlier experiments in our laboratories using local source masses acting on these detectors to investigate anomalous spin interactions, e.g. existence of the axion, this experiment seeks a possible anomalous spin sensing of matter on a scale as large as our galaxy. Rotation of the Earth provides a scan of the sky by the detector, and pendulum position variation is time-correlated with a predicted daily pattern. Our original motivation was the possibility of detecting an exotic dark matter cloud roughly centered in our galaxy, although other sources are conceivable. After eight years of essentially continuous operation, a long-term pattern has developed in the correlations of pendulum torque with predicted pattern. This is analyzed as an unspecified signal, and is referenced to a sidereal frame to separate it from from local noise and systematic causes. The expected high noise-to-signal level requires unusual analytical methods. A 1997 report at this School discussed results of the first two years of this experiment, which could not anticipate the 8-year pattern we now observe.
On identification for robust control: a summary

Summary form only given. Given measured data we propose a model consisting of a linear, time-invariant system affected by perturbation. The systems belonging to the resulting uncertain family form a convex set. Motivated by this representation, a robust control method is explored which allows the computation of a controller maximizing the stability margin. Lower and upper bounds of the optimal stability margin are obtained in terms of different measures of the uncertainty. These bounds describe the relation between the robust performance and the size of the uncertain family. The validation problem ensuing from this framework is also considered. In this presentation we will provide a summary of recent results obtained by the author on the topic of system identification from measured data, for the purpose of robust control.
Pitfalls in cytokine analysis in inflammatory bowel disease

Analysis of cytokine production and function is an indispensable tool to study Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This analysis has generated a tremendous amount of data, but a clear interpretation of results has been hampered by limited attention paid to several patient- and sample-related pitfalls. These include: clinical parameters; the relative value of circulating vs. intestinal cytokine levels; the selection of tissue specimens and their processing method; the specific cellular source of each cytokine; the effect of cytokine inducers; and the technique utilized to obtain qualitative or quantitative data on cytokine protein or mRNA. Once all of these crucial variables are taken into proper perspective, a better understanding will emerge of the true role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Normalization of testosterone level is associated with reduced incidence of myocardial infarction and mortality in men.

Aims There is a significant uncertainty regarding the effect of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on cardiovascular (CV) outcomes including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between normalization of total testosterone (TT) after TRT and CV events as well as all-cause mortality in patients without previous history of MI and stroke. Methods and results We retrospectively examined 83 010 male veterans with documented low TT levels. The subjects were categorized into (Gp1: TRT with resulting normalization of TT levels), (Gp2: TRT without normalization of TT levels) and (Gp3: Did not receive TRT). By utilizing propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazard models, the association of TRT with all-cause mortality, MI, stroke, and a composite endpoint was compared between these groups. The all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 0.44, confidence interval (CI) 0.42–0.46], risk of MI (HR: 0.76, CI 0.63–0.93), and stroke (HR: 0.64, CI 0.43–0.96) were significantly lower in Gp1 ( n = 43 931, median age = 66 years, mean follow-up = 6.2 years) vs. Gp3 ( n = 13 378, median age = 66 years, mean follow-up = 4.7 years) in propensity-matched cohort. Similarly, the all-cause mortality (HR: 0.53, CI 0.50–0.55), risk of MI (HR: 0.82, CI 0.71–0.95), and stroke (HR: 0.70, CI 0.51–0.96) were significantly lower in Gp1 vs. Gp2 ( n = 25 701, median age = 66 years, mean follow-up = 4.6 years). There was no difference in MI or stroke risk between Gp2 and Gp3. Conclusion In this large observational cohort with extended follow-up, normalization of TT levels after TRT was associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, MI, and stroke.
Differentiable monoids with smooth boundary

We investigate here the structure of monoids which are based upon differentiable manifolds with smooth boundary and which have differentiable multiplication function. If the multiplication function of such a monoid, S, is Ck for k≥2 and the unit element, 1, is in the boundary then the maximal subgroup, H(1), of S containing 1 is a Ck group which is an open subgroup of the boundary of S.
Serial Lung Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Monitor Disease Progression in a Child With a Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Syndrome

Serial lung magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed in a child with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). To minimize radiation exposure with conventional serial chest computerized tomography (CT), serial MRIs of the lungs were used. This effectively monitored her disease process as well as detected acute hemorrhage after 5 years remission.
The rheology of faults triggered by the olivine-spinel transformation in Mg2GeO4 and its implications for the mechanism of deep-focus earthquakes

The relevance of the anticrack faulting mechanism to the origin of deep-focus earthquakes depends critically on the physical processes operating during fault generation and movement. We show here that the resistance to sliding on fault zones produced by this mechanism in Mg2GeO4 depends only weakly on confining pressure, but strongly on sliding rate. Both of these characteristics are inconsistent with friction. The microstructures of the fault zones and the crystal-plastic rheology of the constituent phases indicate that sliding must occur primarily by grain-boundary sliding. Previously, we reported that anticrack faulting is accompanied by elastic radiation of energy (acoustic emissions), and that it can operate during the α → β transformation in (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 at the pressures and temperatures at which deep earthquakes occur. The present results and the recent demonstration that metastable olivine is present in the subducting slab beneath Japan provide additional support for the anticrack theory of deep-focus earthquakes.
Stabilized finite element method for viscoplastic flow: formulation and a simple progressive solution strategy

Abstract This paper presents a stabilized finite element formulation for steady-state viscoplastic flow and a simple strategy for solving the resulting non-linear equations with a Newton–Raphson algorithm. An Eulerian stabilized finite element formulation is presented, where mesh dependent terms are added element-wise to enhance the stability of the mixed finite element formulation. A local reconstruction method is used for computing derivatives of the stress field needed when higher order elements are used. Linearization of the weak form is derived to enable a Newton–Raphson solution procedure of the resulting non-linear equations. In order to get convergence in the Newton–Raphson algorithm, a trial solution is needed which is within the radius of convergence. An effective strategy for progressively moving inside the radius of convergence for highly non-linear viscoplastic constitutive equations, typical of metals, is presented. Numerical experiments using the stabilization method with both linear and quadratic shape functions for the velocity and pressure fields in viscoplastic flow problems show that the stabilized method and the progressive convergence strategy are effective in non-linear steady forming problems. Finally, conclusions are inferred and extensions of this work are discussed.
The end of theory in science

Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889–1951) famously said that, “whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent.” Although his counsel was given in a specific context, it is actually good general advice that Chris Anderson, Editor‐in‐chief of Wired magazine, would do well to heed. On June 23, 2008, Anderson posted an article on Wired's website, “The end of theory: the data deluge makes the scientific method obsolete,” from which it is perfectly clear that he doesn't understand much about either science or the scientific method. Anderson's main point is that the modern era of ‘petabyte’ information and ‘cloud’ computing on the web is bypassing the ‘hypothesize, model, test’ procedure of science because scientific theorizing simply cannot cope with the deluge of data. Here is an excerpt: “Out with every theory of human behavior, from linguistics to sociology. Forget taxonomy, ontology, and psychology. Who knows why people do what they do? The point is they do it, and we can track and measure it with unprecedented fidelity […] the numbers speak for themselves.” Actually, the point may or may not be why people do things as opposed to what they do—it just depends …
Optimizing Safety and Appropriateness of Graft Use in Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery: Introduction to the 2nd IUGA Grafts Roundtable

Urogynecologic surgeons, regulatory bodies, and their patients are currently embroiled in a divisive debate regarding the appropriate use of grafts in the vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse. This debate has spilled over onto the public and legal domains with lightning speed thanks in great part to the widespread marketing of new mesh kits by surgical device companies and prompt adoption of new techniques by pelvic surgeons, as well as widespread access to an uncensored internet. “Good evidence either way” is slow to come, as with most innovative surgical progress. We have been keenly aware that this was likely to happen. It is reported that over 300,000 prolapse procedures are performed annually in the USA [1]. It is unknown exactly how many mesh kits are implanted per year, but it is likely a growing volume due to widespread marketing and increased surgeon training. Although the currently available kits have basic similarities, including the use of lightweight type 1 polypropylene mesh, they did not begin that way. It was our growing concern regarding the use of a wide variety of reconstructive materials—and their unknown postimplantation behavior—that led us to sponsor the initial International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) Grafts Roundtable in 2005 [2]. The goals of that meeting included:
Antibody class switching mediated by yeast endonuclease-generated DNA breaks

Antibody class switching in activated B cells uses class switch recombination (CSR), which joins activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-dependent double-strand breaks (DSBs) within two large immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) locus switch (S) regions that lie up to 200 kilobases apart. To test postulated roles of S regions and AID in CSR, we generated mutant B cells in which donor Smu and accepter Sgamma1 regions were replaced with yeast I-SceI endonuclease sites. We found that site-specific I-SceI DSBs mediate recombinational IgH locus class switching from IgM to IgG1 without S regions or AID. We propose that CSR evolved to exploit a general DNA repair process that promotes joining of widely separated DSBs within a chromosome.
Anomalous electrical and magnetic properties of a new quasi-low-dimensional mixed-valent molybdenum-cluster compound

Abstract Large plate-like single crystals of La 5 Mo 4 O 16 were prepared by electrolyzing molten mixtures of La 2 O 3 , MoO 3 and Na 2 MoO 4 . The temperature dependence of electrical resistivity in the ab plane and parallel to the c-axis of the single crystal shows semiconducting behavior in the temperature range 180–300 K and a sharp upturn in the resistivity below ∼180 K. The temperature variation of the susceptibility in the temperature range 200–300 K follows Curie-Weiss behavior with an observed moment ∼1.66 B.M. corresponding to one localized electron per formula unit. The magnetization study on a batch of randomly oriented single crystals showed a sharp decrease in the susceptibility at ∼180 K indicative of a long-range antiferromagnetic order. Directional magnetization studies on La 5 Mo 4 O 16 indicated that the magnetic ordering is confined to the ab plane. The anomalous electrical and magnetic properties are discussed in terms of the unique structure of La 5 Mo 4 O 16 .
Caution: screening for lung cancer.

When dealing with a disease that is common and frequently lethal, early detection makes sense – find the disease in early stage when treatment is more likely curative, and lives will be saved. The ...
Experimental study on ventricular extrasystoles provoked by vagal stimulation.

Abstract Ventricular extrasystolic tachycardias were provoked by focal application of a hypertonic solution of sodium chloride on the exposed heart of the dog. After these extrasystoles subsided, faradic stimulation of the right vagus nerve made them reappear. This effect was reproducible. The extrasystoles which were observed during vagal stimulation were identical with those which appeared after the application of sodium chloride. A characteristic feature of these extrasystoles was their unusually high rate.
Video laryngoscopy with the macintosh video laryngoscope in simulated prehospital scenarios by paramedic students.

Objective. To investigate the effectiveness of the Karl Storz BERCI DCI Macintosh video laryngoscope (MVL) via the TELE PACK system for facilitating intubation by novice paramedic students in a simulation environment. We assessed the laryngeal view, measured by percentage of glottic opening (POGO), when intubating the SimMan manikin airway in different settings. The primary endpoint was the best POGO achieved by the student. Secondary endpoints included intubation times andsuccess rate. Method. We enrolled 25 novice paramedic students to intubate SimMan manikins. Students were randomized to use either a conventional Macintosh 3 (Mac3) blade alone or the MVL with a Mac3 blade. Students attempted their first intubation with the manikin on a stretcher in a normal neck position andreattempted intubation with the manikin's neck stiffened. The groups then crossed over using the alternate device to repeat the attempts in the manikin with a normal neck andwith a stiffened neck. The students then attempted the sam...
A scalable and accurate algorithm for the computation of Hartree–Fock exchange

Abstract Hartree–Fock exchange and hybrid density functionals have recently attracted renewed interest in electronic structure theory for the description of periodic systems, overcoming some of the limitations of local and semi-local approximations of density-functional theory (DFT). However, their use in plane-wave calculations for extended systems remains limited by poor convergence behavior regarding Brillouin-zone sampling and by a high overall computational cost. We present a computational approach that achieves quadratic convergence of exchange integrals with respect to Brillouin zone discretization, while using a compact representation of the exchange operator during non-self-consistent iterations. The computational cost is mitigated by an efficient parallel implementation. The method is applied to computations of Hartree–Fock and hybrid DFT (PBE0) band structures and structural parameters for bulk silicon and diamond.
Psychological functioning and family discord among African-American adolescent females with and without a history of childhood sexual abuse.

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to examine the rate of childhood sexual abuse along with the factors (age of abuse onset, type of perpetrator, and duration of the abuse), as well as the relationship of these factors to psychological functioning among females with a history of childhood abuse. Second, to determine whether levels of psychological functioning and family discord differ among females with and without a history of childhood sexual abuse. METHOD: A cross-sectional design was used. Two hundred and forty-nine adolescent females were recruited from a community-based health program. Two trained female interviewers administered an anonymous survey that assessed childhood sexual abuse, psychological functioning, and family environment. RESULTS: Fifty-seven (22.9%) of those surveyed reported childhood sexual abuse, of which 44.3% were intrafamilial and 55.7% were interfamilial. Age at onset ranged from 3 years to 17 years; 62.5% reported that the sexual abuse occurred 1 to 4 times; 27.9% reported a duration ranging from 1 year to 13 years; and 9.6% reported a duration of 1 month to 7 months. Multiple regression analysis revealed that a greater duration predicted higher levels of depression and lower levels of self-esteem among females with a history of sexual abuse. Females with a history of childhood sexual abuse scored significantly lower on measures of self-esteem and mastery, and significantly higher on measures of physical and emotional abuse. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that adolescent females with a history of childhood sexual abuse suffer an array of negative sequelae that include psychological and family distress. Language: en
Service-dominant logic and supply chain management: are we there yet?

Purpose – Research suggests that service-dominant logic (SDL) is well suited to support supply chain management (SCM) research and practice. Qualitative research has shown that SDL is particularly consistent with an outcome-based supply chain strategy known as performance-based logistics (PBL). The purpose of this paper is to extend theory and practice by exploring the degree to which SDL is utilized in practice. Specifically, PBL is examined for consistency with the underlying fundamental premises (FPs) of SDL. In doing so, this paper answers the positive question, “what exists”, at the intersection of SDL and SCM. Design/methodology/approach – This study employs a mixed methodological approach. First, the FPs of SDL are operationalized using the language of PBL. The PBL FPs are tested quantitatively through an online survey of 52 supply chain PBL experts. A qualitative analysis is conducted using comments associated with each premise. Findings – The survey results suggest that PBL is consistent with SDL...
IκB, NF-κB regulation model: simulation analysis of small number of molecules

The regulation of IκB, NF-κB is of foremost interest in biology as the transcription factor NF-κB has multiple target genes. We have modeled a previously published model by Hoffmann et al. (2002) of IκB, NF-κB mathematically as discrete reaction systems. We have used stochastic algorithm to compare the results when there are large and small numbers of molecules available in a finite volume for each protein. Our results for small number of molecules show that with continuous presence of stimulation, nuclear NF-κB oscillates continuously in every individual cell rather than damping, which was observed in cell population results. This characteristic of the system is missed when averaged behavior is studied.
Supporting the inclusion of pupils with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties in the primary school: the role of teaching assistants

During the past ten years in the UK there has been a considerable increase in the number of teaching assistants (TAs) appointed to work alongside teachers in schools. A significant number of these colleagues are appointed to support pupils with special educational needs (SEN), including those with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD). This paper reports on the ways in which the role of the teaching assistant in supporting pupils with SEBD has been developed in schools for pupils aged 7–11 years in one English Local Education Authority (LEA). It suggests that there are several models of support emerging and that the role of the teaching assistant is perceived as crucial to the effective inclusion of pupils with SEBD in mainstream classrooms.
The effects of glutathione depletion on the biodistribution of Cu(PTSM) in rats.

The tissue retention of radiocopper afforded by intravenous injection of the proposed blood flow imaging agent, 62Cu-labeled copper(II) pyruvaldehyde bis(N4-methylthiosemicarbazone) [Cu(PTSM)], is thought to result from reductive decomposition of the copper(II) complex by intracellular sulfhydryls (e.g. glutathione, GSH). To determine if the tissue uptake and retention of this tracer adequately measures perfusion in tissues containing altered GSH concentrations, the biodistribution of copper-67 labeled Cu(PTSM) was determined in GSH-depleted rats. Despite treatment to induce relatively large reductions in tissue GSH levels, it was found that only very small changes in the biodistribution of copper-labeled Cu(PTSM) occurred in the treated rats compared to untreated controls.
Medium-energy electron diffraction from Cu(100).

We have investigated the polar-angle dependence of medium-energy electron diffraction (MEED) from a Cu(100) surface. It is observed that MEED is characterized by a combination of coherent and incoherent scattering, and the incoherent part is governed by the forward-scattering mechanism. The incoherent MEED pattern differs from that of x-ray photoelectron diffraction and Auger electron diffraction because of the angular distribution of the initial electron scattering. The asymmetry between the incident-beam and exit-beam diffraction is also observed and discussed.
Abstract 4272: Hexastatin is a potent therapeutic agent for targeting tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Peptides or short protein domains derived from the extracellular matrix are reported to possess anti-tumor properties. In the present study, one such molecule “Hexastatin or [α6(IV)NC1]” a non-collagenous domain of α6 chain of type (IV) collagen was derived from the carboxy terminal and was found to inhibit tumor growth, but the mechanism by which it inhibits the growth of solid tumors has not been reported yet. In the present study, we identified that the biological functions of hexastatin are attributed to its binding to different cell surface integrins. We identified that hexastatin binds to α3β1, αVβ3 and α5β1 integrins and inhibits p38-MAPK signaling. Hexastatin competes with human vascular endothelial cells in binding to α1β1 integrins on type IV collagen, and or with α5β1/αVβ3 integrins on fibronectin/vitronectin matrix, thus inhibiting endothelial migration and tube formation. Interestingly, p38-MAPK phosphorylation was not inhibited in α3 and β3 integrin null endothelial cells upon treatment with Hexastatin which confirms that the antiangiogenic functions of Hexastatin are possibly mediated through α3β1 and αVβ3 integrins. While both the integrins (α3β1 and α5β1) are required for the inhibition of tube formation by Hexastatin in endothelial cells, only α3β1 integrin was found to regulate endothelial cells migration. In addition we also demonstrate that Hexastatin inhibits tumor growth, tumor angiogenesis and circulating endothelial cells in-vivo. These in-vitro and in-vivo findings indicate that α3β1 and αVβ3 integrins are critical for Hexastatin mediated inhibition of angiogenic signaling and tumor progression. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that hexastatin is a potent therapeutic agent for targeting tumor angiogenesis and tumor growth. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4272. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4272
A study of unpredictability in fault-tolerant middleware

In enterprise applications relying on fault-tolerant middleware, it is a common engineering practice to establish service-level agreements (SLAs) based on the 95th or the 99th percentiles of the latency, to allow a margin for unexpected variability. However, the extent of this unpredictability has not been studied systematically. We present an extensive empirical study of unpredictability in 16 distributed systems, ranging from simple transport protocols to fault-tolerant, middleware-based enterprise applications, and we show that the inherent unpredictability in the systems examined arises from at most 1% of the remote invocations. In the normal, fault-free operating mode most remote invocations have a predictable end-to-end latency, but the maximum latency follows unpredictable trends and is comparable with the time needed to recover from a fault. The maximum latency is not influenced by the system's workload, cannot be regulated through configuration parameters and is not correlated with the system's resource consumption. The high-latency outliers (up to three orders of magnitude higher than the average latency) have multiple causes and may originate in any component of the system. However, after filtering out 1% of the invocations with the highest recorded response-times, the latency becomes bounded with high statistical confidence (p<0.01). We have verified this result on different operating systems (Linux 2.4, Linux 2.6, Linux-rt, TimeSys), middleware platforms (CORBA and EJB), programming languages (C, C++ and Java), replication styles (active and warm passive) and applications (e-commerce and online gaming). Moreover, this phenomenon occurs at all the layers of middleware-based systems, from the communication protocols to the business logic.
Counseling the Patient with Potentially HPV-Related Newly Diagnosed Head and Neck Cancer

The recent emergence of a clinically distinct subset of head and neck cancers (HNC) caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) necessitates critical reevaluation of the existing counseling paradigm for patients with newly diagnosed HNC. Herein we propose a structural framework for patient counseling in which HPV testing is incorporated and the impact of HPV-status is discussed in the context of multiple medical and psychosocial domains. We strive to maintain a balance between making recommendations based on the best available scientific evidence and acknowledgment of uncertainty for both patients and providers. We anticipate that both the standard-of-care diagnostic workup and treatment, and counseling guidelines for these patients will change rapidly in the years ahead, as data from ongoing and planned prospective clinical trials become available.
The risk of developing subsequent nonmelanoma skin cancers

Data from the Southeast Arizona Skin Cancer Registry collected during 1985 through June 1988 were used in this study. Patients who had a nonmelanoma skin cancer (basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma) removed in 1985 were observed until subsequent nonmelanoma skin cancers developed or until June 30,1988. Twelve categories of nonmelanoma skin cancers were developed on the basis of the type of first nonmelanoma skin cancer and type of second, third, and fourth nonmelanoma skin cancers. Analyses showed the highest risk of a subsequent nonmelanoma skin cancer developing was within 1 year (36.39%), the rate of developing another nonmelanoma skin cancer depended on type (squamous cell carcinoma, 100%; basal cell carcinoma, 44.23% to 83.65%), and total risk decreased during the 1277 days of the study.
Immunological studies of bovine platelet aggregating factor (PAF).

Abstract A potent antiserum was produced when rabbits were immunized with a highly purified preparation of bovine platelet aggregating factor (PAF). The rabbit anti-PAF markedly inhibited the PAF activity of bovine plasma and the von Willebrand factor (vWF) activity of normal human plasma. The inhibition of bovine factor VIII coagulant activity was barely measurable. When serial dilutions of antiserum were tested against normal bovine plasma and crude PAF preparations by double immunodiffusion, rocket immunoelectrophoresis and crossed immunoelectrophoresis, precipitin bands due to contaminants were not detected. With double immunodiffusion, a single line of full immunologic identity was found with highly purified PAF and cow plasma; normal human plasma showed partial identity with the PAF arc; no precipitin arcs formed with vWD plasma. Double immuno-diffusion with crude PAF showed several precipitin bands that all fused with the single band given by highly purified PAF with the antiserum. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis of crude bovine PAF in 2% agarose showed several precipitin arcs, all immunologically related. Most of the precipitin arcs fused into a single band when the crude PAF was electrophoresed in 1% agarose. Tandem crossed immunoelectrophoresis of human plasma and PAF showed a partial relationship between PAF and human vWF, thus confirming the results from the double immunodiffusion and neutralization studies.
Modulation of sphingolipid metabolism with calorie restriction enhances insulin action in skeletal muscle

This study sought to investigate the effect of calorie restriction (CR) on skeletal muscle sphingolipid metabolism and its contribution to improved insulin action in rats after a 6-month feeding study. Twenty nine (29) male Fischer 344 rats were randomized to an ad libitum (AL) diet or 30% CR. Dietary intake, body weight and insulin sensitivity were monitored. After 6 months, skeletal muscle (vastus lateralis) was obtained for insulin signaling and lipid profiling. CR significantly decreased insulin and glucose levels and also altered the expression and activity of proteins involved in sphingolipid formation and metabolism. The quantities of ceramides significantly increased in CR animals (Pb.05; n=14–15), while ceramide metabolism products (i.e., glycosphingolipids: hexosylceramides and lactosylceramides) significantly decreased (Pb.05; n=14–15). Ceramide phosphates, sphingomyelins, sphingosine and sphingosine phosphate were not significantly different between AL and CR groups (P=ns; n=14–15). Lactosylceramide quantities correlated significantly with surrogate markers of insulin resistance (homeostasis model of assessment on insulin resistance) (r=0.7; Pb.005). Products of ceramide metabolism (glycosphingolipids), known to interfere with insulin signaling at elevated levels, were significantly reduced in the skeletal muscle of CR animals. The increase in insulin sensitivity is associated with glycosphingolipid levels.
Replication of mouse mammary tumor virus in tissue culture. II. Kinetics of virus production and the effect of RNA and protein inhibitors on viral synthesis.

Abstract The incorporation of virus-specific RNA into mouse mammary tumor virus (MuMTV) was studied using an established mouse mammary tumor cell line (MuMT-73). Two species of RNA (70 and 35 S) were found to be virus specific by molecular hybridization using radioactive MuMTV-complementary DNA as a probe. The time between the addition of [ 3 H]uridine and the initial release of virions continued to increase RNA was found to be 2 to 4 hr. The rate of release of labeled virions continued to increase for 20–30 hr before a steady state was reached. Actinomycin D treatment of the cells completely inhibited viral RNA synthesis within 1 hr; however, synthesis of the viral proteins and the release of mature virions continued for at least 10 hr. The morphology and protein composition of the virus particles produced by the MuMT-73 cells with and without actinomycin D treatment were identical. Exposure of cells to puromycin or cycloheximide inhibited the replication of MuMTV, but such treatments induced the production of an endogenous type-C virus.
Predicting partition coefficients of multi-charged solutes in aqueous two-phase systems

Abstract A mathematical model incorporating the influence of a pH difference between the phases is developed to predict the partitioning of charged compounds in aqueous two-phase systems. The partition coefficients of three model compounds, terephthalic acid, benzenedimethanol and xylylenediamine, are examined in poly(ethylene glycol)-potassium phosphate aqueous two-phase systems over the pH range 5.5–9.2. The model predicts that in this particular phase system, negatively charged solutes partition higher and positively charged solutes partition lower than an otherwise identical neutral solute. The partition coefficients of the dipeptides tyrosine-tyrosine, glycine-tyrosine and leucine-phenylalanine are also examined in poly(ethylene glycol)-potassium phosphate systems, and their observed behaviour agrees with the model prediction. The addition of an alkali metal halide to a poly(ethylene glycol)-potassium phosphate system was observed to result in a decrease in the pH difference between the phases. As the model predicts for decreasing pH difference between the phases, the observed partition coefficients of negatively charged compounds decrease. The results indicate that charge and hydrophobic effects each play important roles in the partitioning of biological compounds.
Theory and experiments characterizing hypervelocity impact plasmas: Toward weatherproof spacecraft systems

Space weather, including solar activity and background plasma, sets up spacecraft conditions that can magnify the threat from hypervelocity impacts. Hypervelocity impactors include both meteoroids, traveling between 11 and 72 km/s, and orbital debris, with typical impact speeds of 10 km/s. When an impactor encounters a spacecraft, its kinetic energy is converted over a very short timescale into energy of vaporization and ionization, resulting in a small, dense plasma. This plasma can produce radio frequency (RF) emission, causing electrical anomalies within the spacecraft.
Methods for assessing web design through the internet

Web design guidelines are often derived from best practices, conventional wisdom, or small-scale usability studies conducted in labs. We contend that if Web design guidelines are to inform the design of Web sites serving varied audiences with varied needs, the guidelines must be derived from empirical research that assesses users in their native environments as they interact with real Web sites. While we believe that the delivery of a remote Web-based experiment has many potential benefits, we acknowledge that it can be difficult to exercise experimental control so as to acquire reliable data, capture user behavior unobtrusively, extract meaningful information from server logs, and collect valid survey data. Therefore, we report on how we addressed some of the challenges of conducting remote empirical studies of the effect of navigational cues on Web browsing behavior.
Invention, institutionalization and renewal in Uzbekistan's national culture:

Accounts of national renewal in the republics of the former Soviet Union tend to present these regions as awakening from a long slumber of cultural repression. In this paper I argue against this notion, examining the ways that Soviet cultural institutions developed some aspects of national culture in Uzbekistan while suppressing others. The effects of Soviet institutions and ways of thinking about culture are examined in the context of contemporary cultural production in Uzbekistan, specifically the production of national holiday spectacles. Based on observation of these events and on interviews with cultural elites, I outline Soviet schemas of culture and trace the effects of these schemas on the elite's conception and presentation of Uzbekistan's national culture today.
Cartilage graft laryngotracheoplasty

Benign, subglottic and laryngotracheal stenosis remains a challenging problem for the laryngologist. The size, location, and severity of stenoses influence the surgical technique. Laryngotracheoplasty can be performed to enlarge the trachea without shortening the trachea while offering a technically less challenging approach and less risk to the patient.
Inhibition of [3H]Spiroperidol Binding by In Vitro Addition of Ethanol

: The in vitro addition of ethanol at concentrations greater than 0.2% produced an inhibition of [3H]spiroperidol binding. This inhibition was competitive, lowering the affinity without altering the maximum number of sites. Both the rates of association and dissociation were altered such that the ligand spent less time attached to the receptor. Since the binding was competitive, little inhibition was seen at ligand concentrations greater than 300 pm. These results are important for in vitro studies when drugs are dissolved in ethanol, and also for in vivo studies on the effects of ethanol.
Semi-implicit spectral collocation methods for reaction-diffusion equations on annuli

In this article, we develop numerical schemes for solving stiff reaction-diffusion equations on annuli based on Chebyshev and Fourier spectral spatial discretizations and integrating factor methods for temporal discretizations. Stiffness is resolved by treating the linear diffusion through the use of integrating factors and the nonlinear reaction term implicitly. Root locus curves provide a succinct analysis of the A-stability of these schemes. By utilizing spectral collocation methods, we avoid the use of potentially expensive transforms between the physical and spectral spaces. Numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of these schemes. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 27: 1113–1129, 2011
Novel Multiubiquitin Chain Linkages Catalyzed by the Conjugating Enzymes E2EPF and RAD6 Are Recognized by 26 S Proteasome Subunit 5

Targeting of substrates for degradation by the ATP, ubiquitin-dependent pathway requires formation of multiubiquitin chains in which the 8.6-kDa polypeptide is linked by isopeptide bonds between carboxyl termini and Lys-48 residues of successive monomers. Binding of Lys-48-linked chains by subunit 5 of the 26 S proteasome regulatory complex commits the attached target protein to degradation with concomitant release of free ubiquitin monomers following disassembly of the chains. Point mutants of ubiquitin (Lys → Arg) were used to map the linkage specificity for ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes previously demonstrated to form novel multiubiquitin chains not attached through Lys-48. Recombinant human E2EPF catalyzed multiubiquitin chain formation exclusively through Lys-11 of ubiquitin while recombinant yeast RAD6 formed chains linked only through Lys-6. Multiubiquitin chains linked through Lys-6, Lys-11, or Lys-48 each bound to subunit 5 of partially purified human 26 S proteasome with comparable affinities. Since chains bearing different linkages are expected to pack into distinct structures, competition between Lys-11 and Lys-48 chains for binding to subunit 5 demonstrates that the latter possesses determinants for recognizing alternatively linked chains and precludes the existence of subunit 5 isoforms recognizing distinct structures. In addition, competition studies provided an estimate of Kd≤ 18 nM for the intrinsic binding of Lys-48-linked chains of linkage number n > 4. This result suggests that the principal mechanistic advantage of multiubiquitin chain formation is to enhance the affinity of the associated substrate for the 26 S complex relative to that of unconjugated target protein. Complementation studies with E1/E2-depleted rabbit reticulocyte extract demonstrated RAD6 supported isopeptide ligase-dependent degradation only through Lys-48-linked chains, while E2EPF retained the ability to target a model radiolabeled substrate through Lys-11-linked chains. Therefore, the linkage specificity exhibited by these E2 isozymes depends on their catalytic context with respect to isopeptide ligase.
Potential nanosilver impact on anaerobic digestion at moderate silver concentrations

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs, nanosilver) entering the sewers and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are mostly accumulated in the sludge. In this study, we determined the impact of AgNPs on anaerobic glucose degradation, sludge digestion and methanogenic assemblages. At ambient (22 °C) and mesophilic temperatures (37 °C), there was no significant difference in biogas and methane production between the sludge treated with AgNPs at the concentrations up to 40 mg Ag/L (13.2 g silver/Kg biomass COD) and the control. In these anaerobic digestion samples, acetate and propionic acid were the only detectable volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and they were depleted in 3 days. On the other hand, more than 90% of AgNPs was removed from the liquid phase and associated with the sludge while almost no silver ions were released from AgNPs under anaerobic conditions. Quantitative PCR results indicated that Methanosaeta and Methanomicrobiales were the dominant methanogens, and the methanogenic diversity and population remained largely unchanged after nanosilver exposure and anaerobic digestion. The results suggest that AgNPs at moderate concentrations (e.g., ≤40 mg/L) have negligible impact on anaerobic digestion and methanogenic assemblages because of little to no silver ion release.
Stabilite – A Three-Axis Attitude Control System Utilizing a Single Reaction Wheel

Abstract Stabilite is the name given to a developed concept of controlling motion of the three coordinate axes of a spacecraft — pitch, roll, and yaw — such that the pitch axis is maintained continuously parallel to the orbit normal, the roll axis is maintained parallel to the local horizontal, and the yaw axis is maintained parallel to (or a specified angle from) the local vertical. The three axes — local horizontal, local vertical, and orbit normal — form an orthogonal set of coordinates which not only make one revolution about the orbit normal in one orbit period, but also rotate, generally at a much slower rate, about another axis fixed in inertial space. A stabilite spacecraft maintains correct alignment between corresponding axes regardless of the rate of rotation of the reference axes. Although other systems are designed to perform the same function, Stabilite has some unique qualities that make it competitive with all other approaches when accuracy, weight, power, reliability, and cost are compared. The Stabilite development is inexorably tied to the TIROS weather satellite program,’ but Stabilite is flexible and can be applied to general spacecraft design requirements.
A Glimpse into the Demography of the Ainu

Seven unpublished household censuses of Ainu populations on Hokkaido and Sakhalin between 1803 and 1853 are analyzed to show evidence of population decline well before the Meiji period. These populations show substantial diversity in household composition and community size, and complex household organization is pervasive, suggesting elaborate patron-client relationships not obviously based on kinship. Ecological differences may underlie this diversity and complexity, with Japanese influence and inclusion in long distance trading networks a strong possibility as a basic cause. There is a suggestion of organizational adaptations to distant economic and political influences, analogous to those observed on the Northwest Coast of North America under the influence of the fur trade.
Identification and recombinant expression of anandamide hydrolyzing enzyme from Dictyostelium discoideum

Background Anandamide (Arachidonoyl ethanolamide) is a potent bioactive lipid studied extensively in humans, which regulates several neurobehavioral processes including pain, feeding and memory. Bioactivity is terminated when hydrolyzed into free arachidonic acid and ethanolamine by the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In this study we report the identification of a FAAH homolog from Dictyostelium discoideum and its function to hydrolyze anandamide.
Observation of photon localization in a three-dimensional disordered system.

The diffusion and absorption coefficients of microwave radiation in random mixtures of metallic and dielectric spheres are determined from measurements of the intensity correlation function with frequency shift and of the scale dependence of transmission. We find a narrow window of localization in frequency and metallic concentration. The transition is rounded by the presence of absorption.
Decreased striatal D1 binding density following mesotelencephalic 6-hydroxydopamine injections: an autoradiographic analysis

Autoradiographic experiments performed on rats with unilateral mesotelencephalic 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injections revealed reduced binding of [3H]SCH23390 to D1 receptors in the striatum ipsilateral to the neurotoxin as well as increased binding of [3H]spiroperidol to D2 receptors in that hemisphere. These opposite influences of injury on the dopamine receptor subtypes occurred in rats sacrificed at 2 weeks or 11 months postoperatively, but neither change was evident at 4 days postoperatively. Equilibrium saturation analysis performed on rats sacrificed at 8 weeks postoperatively indicated that D1 and D2 receptor changes reflected altered Bmax values without KD modifications. Topographic analysis of the D1 decline by quantitative autoradiography revealed that the D1 decrease was greater in dorsal striatum than ventrally. Those striatal regions that showed greater declines in D1 density correspondingly had the greater losses of [3H]mazindol binding after the denervation, suggesting that the decline of D1 binding is a postsynaptic consequence of the reduced mesostriatal dopaminergic innervation. The findings indicate opposite influences of injury on D2 and D1 receptor levels and raise important questions concerning the mechanism by which 6-OHDA injection affects the D1 sites.
Pathology of gill and liver tissues from two genera of fishes exposed to two coal‐derived materials

Bullhead catfish, Ictalurus nebulosus, and rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri, were subjected to two coal-derived substances to evaluate each material for potential carcinogenic activity. Substances tested included a solvent-refined coal heavy distillate and a sediment extract from an industrially polluted river in Ohio. Two subfractions, one containing the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the other containing the nitrogen heterocycles of each material were also tested. Following a 16-h exposure period, the gill and liver tissues were removed and examined by standard light and electron microscopy techniques. Hyperplasia of the gill tissue and some engorgement with blood of the secondary lamellae were observed with the light microscope. At the electron microscope level, hepatocyte mitochondria were swollen with a loss of cristae, and rough endoplasmic reticulum fragmented. Results suggest that most of the treatments studied induced pathological responses in fish. Of the two fish tested, the rainbow trout was the most sensitive indicator of environmental pollution.
Functional Connectivity of Left Heschl’s Gyrus in Vulnerability to Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia

Background Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous disorder that may consist of multiple etiologies and disease processes. Auditory hallucinations (AH), which are common and often disabling, represent a narrower and more basic dimension of psychosis than schizophrenia. Previous studies suggest that abnormal primary auditory cortex activity is associated with AH pathogenesis. We thus investigated functional connectivity, using a seed in primary auditory cortex, in schizophrenia patients with and without AH and healthy controls, to examine neural circuit abnormalities associated more specifically with AH than the myriad other symptoms that comprise schizophrenia.