cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of Protein Misfolding in DFNA9 Hearing Loss

Mutations in the COCH (coagulation factor C homology) gene have been attributed to DFNA9 (deafness, autosomal-dominant 9), an autosomal-dominant non-syndromic hearing loss disorder. However, the mechanisms responsible for DFNA9 hearing loss remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that mutant cochlin, the protein product of the COCH gene, forms a stable dimer that is sensitive to reducing agent. In contrast, wild-type (WT) cochlin may form only dimers transiently. Interestingly, the presence of mutant cochlin can stabilize WT cochlin in dimer conformation, providing a possible mechanism for the dominant nature of DFNA9 mutations. Furthermore, the expression of mutant cochlin eventually induces WT cochlin to form stable oligomers that are resistant to reducing agent. Finally, we show that mutant cochlin is cytotoxic in vitro and in vivo. Our study suggests a possible molecular mechanism underlying DFNA9 hearing loss and provides an in vitro model that may be used to explore protein-misfolding diseases in general.
The influence of mean wind shear on the propagation of Kelvin waves

The long Kelvin waves observed in the equatorial lower stratosphere transport sufficient westerly momentum upwards to account for the westerly acceleration of the quasi-biennial oscillation, provided that this momentum is absorbed in the westerly shear zone of the mean wind. The behavior of linearized Kelvin waves as they propagate through such a shear zone is deduced by scaling the wave equations with the ratio of the latitudinal scale to the zonal scale (the aspect ratio) which is a small parameter for the observed waves. The resulting system is reduced to a single elliptic equation which is solved numerically for various configurations of the mean zonal wind. It is found that passage through a westerly shear zone with no critical level modifies the waves as follows: (1) Both the latitudinal and vertical scales of the waves decrease. (2) The upward momentum transport becomes concentrated towards the equator. (3) The latitudinally averaged vertical momentum transport remains nearly constant. If the zonal wind profile contains a critical level the waves are nearly totally absorbed at that level. Furthermore, the wave amplitude has a pronounced maximum at the equator just below the critical level. For cases in which the zonal wind has lateral as well as vertical shear it was found that the Kelvin waves are effectively absorbed at the height of the critical level at the equator even when the critical level height rises rapidly away from the equator. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1970.tb01520.x
Detailing Coherent, Minimum Uncertainty States of Gravitons, as Semi Classical Components of Gravity Waves, and How Squeezed States Affect Upper Limits To Graviton Mass

We present what is relevant to squeezed states of initial space time and how that affects both the composition of relic GW, and also gravitons. A side issue to consider is if gravitons can be configured as semi classical "particles", which is akin to the Pilot model of Quantum Mechanics as embedded in a larger non linear "deterministic" background.
The bang bang servo problem treated by variational techniques

In this paper variational techniques are used to establish the following result: suppose a dynamical system is governed by the differential equation y ˙ = A y + f ( t ) ( 1 ) where A is a real constant matrix with distinct eigenvalues. Suppose that these eigenvalues are further restricted to have nonpositive real parts but are not required to be purely real. Finally let each component φ(t) of the vector forcing functing f(t) satisfy, for all t , the conditions | ϕ i ( t ) | ≦ γ i ( i = 1 , 2 , ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ , n ) ( 2 ) where the γi's are preassingned constants. It is shown that, given an arbitrary initial condition y (0), the forcing function that will bring the system to its equilibrium position in the shortest possible time is such that φi(t)=±γi , and the instants of time at which φi(t) changes from ± γi to ± γi are obtained by considering the output of the adjoint system. Further relationship between the given system and the adjoint system is discussed in the paper. It is also shown that this solution, obtained by variational techniques, implies the concept of switching surfaces.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations of Effects of Silica Colloids on Transport of Strontium in Saturated Sand Columns

Transport experiments with strontium were conducted using saturated sand columns in the presence and absence of silica colloids, and numerical modeling was performed with modeling results compared to experimental data. The experiments were aimed at testing the hypothesis that under certain chemical conditions colloids act as movement-retarding agents and yield a larger effective retardation factor for the migrating contaminant. Four individual experiments were conducted to identify conditions where the mobility of silica colloids is increased or decreased, and a similar set was conducted for strontium transport in the absence of colloids. Mobility of colloids was found to increase with decreasing ionic strength and increasing pH, with the ionic strength having the more significant impact. The reverse effect was obtained for strontium. Based on these results, two additional experiments were conducted where both colloids and strontium were injected at the column inlet. Results showed that under certain conditions of ionic strength and pH (I = 3.0 x 10(-2) M and pH = 4-5.4) colloids retarded the movement of strontium. The retardation effect was obtained in two experiments under slightly modified conditions, which confirms the role of colloids as retarding agents. Afinite difference numerical model was used to (a) simulate mobile breakthrough curves and compare to experimental data and (b) estimate the model parameters describing cotransport of strontium and colloids. The model accurately predicted arrival time and the overall shape of the breakthrough curves.
Nonadiabatic transition in n=2 atomic hydrogen

We present an experiment studying the nonadiabatic passage of the $F=1$ hyperfine component of the $2^{2}S_{\frac{1}{2}}$ metastable state of atomic hydrogen through a reversing solenoidal magnetic field. The nonadiabatic region is compared to the model field of Hight, Robiscoe, and Thorson. The measured transition amplitudes are fitted by the calculated amplitudes and the results are discussed.
Ultrasonic Corona Detection in Transformers

Corona detection in liquid-filled transformers is becoming recognized as a significant means of ascertaining the integrity of the insulation system. One shortcoming of detectors previously used was their limitation in indicating only the presence or absence of corona without regard to physical location. Techniques have been developed now to utilize the grossly different travel times of the electrical and pressure signals produced by a corona discharge to determine the location of the source. The high-frequency electrical signal arrives at the transformer terminals instantaneously and triggers the oscilloscope sweep. Pressure waves, traveling at much slower speeds through the insulation, arrive at the transducer and are converted to electric signals, which are displayed as the vertical deflection on the oscilloscope screen. The time interval between the start of the oscilloscope sweep and the first vertical deflection is a measure of the distance between the corona source and pressure transducer. Triangulation procedures may be required to discern the exact location of the corona source. These procedures may be used during factory insulation tests or on transformers operating in the field.
Some observations on the kinetics and thermochemistry of the reactions of HO2 radicals with aldehydes and ketones

The rapid, gas phase equilibrium addition of HO2 radicals to CH2O to form the peroxy radical HOCH2OO• is in agreement with the known thermochemistry of these species. The recent study of the similar addition of HO2• to ketones shows no significant reaction, which is again in agreement with known thermochemistry. All these reactions are notable for significant dipole attraction between the reactants ranging from 3 to 7 kcal/mol. The thermochemistry shows that the hydroperoxyl alkoxy species, the primary possible adduct, is not favored by the free energy change for direct addition. This and the observed kinetics favor a concerted addition, H-atom transfer, as the transition state for the reactions. Kinetic estimates for forward and reverse reactions are in good agreement with observations. A thermochemical examination of the step-wise addition of HO2• to the carbonyl shows that the reaction proceeds through a concerted, cyclic transition state involving simultaneous H-transfer, 3 + 2 cyclo-addition of HO2• to the carbonyl group. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 33: 509–512, 2001
Nonmuscle myosin-dependent synthesis of type I collagen.

Abstract Type I collagen, synthesized in all tissues as the heterotrimer of two α1(I) polypeptides and one α2(I) polypeptide, is the most abundant protein in the human body. Here we show that intact nonmuscle myosin filaments are required for the synthesis of heterotrimeric type I collagen. Conserved 5′ stem–loop in collagen α1(I) and α2(I) mRNAs binds the RNA-binding protein LARP6. LARP6 interacts with nonmuscle myosin through its C-terminal domain and associates collagen mRNAs with the filaments. Dissociation of nonmuscle myosin filaments results in secretion of collagen α1(I) homotrimer, diminished intracellular colocalization of collagen α1(I) and α2(I) polypeptides (required for folding of the heterotrimer), and their increased intracellular degradation. Inhibition of the motor function of myosin has similar collagen-specific effects, while disruption of actin filaments has a general effect on protein secretion. Nonmuscle myosin copurifies with polysomes, and there is a subset of polysomes involved in myosin-dependent translation of collagen mRNAs. These results indicate that association of collagen mRNAs with nonmuscle myosin filaments is necessary to coordinately synthesize collagen α1(I) and α2(I) polypeptides. We postulate that LARP6/myosin-dependent mechanism regulates the synthesis of heterotrimeric type I collagen by coordinating the translation of collagen mRNAs.
Effects of capsaicin in combination with diets of varying protein content on the duodenal absorptive cells of the rat.

The effects of capsaicin, a pungent principle of capsicum pepper, and its combination with various diets on the morphology of duodenal mucosa was studied on young rats grouped and maintained on six different diets for periods of 28 and 56 days: normal diet with and without capsaicin, high-protein diet with and without capsaicin, and low-protein diet with and without capsaicin. Goblet cells in the capsaicin-treated animals increased in number. Ultrastructural alterations occurred in absorptive cells of rats fed a low-protein diet and also in those fed diets supplemented with capsaicin for both 28 and 56 days. The most striking ultrastructural alterations developed in animals that received the low-protein diet supplemented with capsaicin. This study shows that capsaicin intensifies the morphological alterations associated with a low-protein diet.
Adaptive mismatch compensation for vibratory gyroscopes

This paper presents an online adaptive controller to compensate damping and stiffness frequency mismatches in vibratory gyroscopes. This adaptive controller is running together with the method of averaging. The adaptive controller first estimates the effective damping and stiffness frequency mismatches using least square method and then compensates these estimated mismatches in an online fashion. Simulation results show that the proposed adaptive mismatch compensation controller can eliminate the effects of damping and stiffness frequency mismatches on quadrature oscillation, precession angle oscillation and precession angle drift very effectively.
A 106 kDa form of aminopeptidase is a receptor for Bacillus thuringiensis CryIC δ-endotoxin in the brush border membrane of Manduca sexta

Abstract A soluble 106 kDa protein with aminopeptidase activity was isolated from Manduca sexta using CryIC toxin-affinity and anion-exchange chromatographies. Based on internal amino acid sequence analysis and different mobilities obtained with non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the 106 kDa aminopeptidase is distinct from a previously described 115 kDa CryIAc-binding aminopeptidase. The 106 kDa protein was preferentially precipitated by CryIC relative to CryIAc toxin. The 106 kDa form, like the 115 kDa aminopeptidase, has a cross-reacting determinant typical of a cleaved glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. On ligand blots, CryIAc recognized membrane bound 120 and soluble 115 kDa aminopeptidases, but not the soluble 106 kDa form. The results show that CryIC and CryIAc -endotoxins recognize functionally related, but structurally distinct 106 kDa and 115 kDa isoforms of aminopeptidase in the M. sexta midgut.
Nonlinear Evolution of Global Hydrodynamic Shallow-water Instability in the Solar Tachocline

We present a fully nonlinear hydrodynamic "shallow-water" model of the solar tachocline. The model consists of a global spherical shell of differentially rotating fluid, which has a deformable top, thus allowing motions in radial directions along with latitudinal and longitudinal directions. When the system is perturbed, in the course of its nonlinear evolution it can generate unstable low-frequency shallow-water shear modes from the differential rotation, high-frequency gravity waves, and their interactions. Radiative and overshoot tachoclines are characterized in this model by high and low effective gravity values, respectively. Building a semi-implicit spectral scheme containing very low numerical diffusion, we perform nonlinear evolution of shallow-water modes. Our first results show that (1) high-latitude jets or polar spin-up occurs due to nonlinear evolution of unstable hydrodynamic shallow-water disturbances and differential rotation, (2) Reynolds stresses in the disturbances together with changing shell thickness and meridional flow are responsible for the evolution of differential rotation, (3) disturbance energy primarily remains concentrated in the lowest longitudinal wavenumbers, (4) an oscillation in energy between perturbed and unperturbed states occurs due to evolution of these modes in a nearly dissipation-free system, and (5) disturbances are geostrophic, but occasional nonadjustment in geostrophic balance can occur, particularly in the case of high effective gravity, leading to generation of gravity waves. We also find that a linearly stable differential rotation profile remains nonlinearly stable.
Plasma somatomedin-C levels in psoriasis.

SUMMARY We have measured plasma levels of somatomedin-C, one of the principal mediators of growth hormone action, in 25 patients with plaque-type psoriasis of varying severity and compared these levels with those found in healthy controls. Plasma somatomedin-C levels were not elevated in the psoriatic patients regardless of the severity of their disease, suggesting that in these patients growth hormone secretion is within normal limits.
The atypical ascorbic acid oxidase in fungus spores—Its inactivation by isoascorbate and its specificity

Abstract The enzyme of Myrothecium verrucaria spores has an indicated absolute specificity for l -ascorbic acid and is irreversibly inactivated by d -isoascorbic acid, oxygen being necessary for this reaction. It is postulated that a stable ternary complex is formed between enzyme, isoascorbate, and oxygen. Studies of the inactivation show it to be markedly affected by pH and to have a positive temperature coefficient. Results of further studies on certain characteristics of the enzyme are reported.
Performance of Self-Expanding Nitinol Stent in a Curved Artery: Impact of Stent Length and Deployment Orientation

The primary aim of this work was to investigate the performance of self-expanding Nitinol stents in a curved artery through finite element analysis. The interaction between a PROTEGETM GPSTM self-expanding Nitinol stent and a stenosed artery, as well as a sheath, was characterized in terms of acute lumen gain, stent underexpansion, incomplete stent apposition, and tissue prolapse. The clinical implications of these parameters were discussed. The impact of stent deployment orientation and the stent length on the arterial wall stress distribution were evaluated. It was found that the maximum principal stress increased by 17.46%, when the deployment orientation of stent was varied at a 5 deg angle. A longer stent led to an increased contact pressure between stent and underlying tissue, which might alleviate the stent migration. However, it also caused a severe hinge effect and arterial stress concentration correspondingly, which might aggravate neointimal hyperplasia. The fundamental understanding of the behavior of a self-expanding stent and its clinical implications will facilitate a better device design.
Capacity and Error Estimates for Boolean Classifiers with Limited Complexity

This paper extends the notions of capacity and distribution-free error estimation to nonlinear Boolean classifiers on patterns with binary-valued features. We establish quantitative relationships between the dimensionality of the feature vectors (d), the combinational complexity of the decision rule (c), the number of samples in the training set (n), and the classification performance of the resulting classifier. Our results state that the discriminating capacity of Boolean classifiers is given by the product dc, and the probability of ambiguous generalization is asymptotically given by (n/dc-1)-1 0(log d)/d) for large d, and n=0(dc). In addition we show that if a fraction ? of the training samples is misclassified then the probability of error (?) in subsequent samples satisfies P(|?-?| ?) m=<2.773 exp (dc-e2n/8) for all distributions, regardless of how the classifier was discovered.
Vibrational spectra, conformational stabilities, and barriers to internal rotation of the difluoroacetyl halides

ABSTRACTThe infrared (3200 to 20 cm) and Raman (3200 to 10 cm) spectra of gaseous and solid difluoroacetylchloride (CF2HCCIO), chlomdifluoroacetyl chloride (CF2C1CCIO), and bromodifluoroacetyl chloride(CF2BrQ0) have been recorded. Additionally, the Raman spectra of the liquids with qualitative depolarization data have also been obtained. These spectral data have been interpreted on the basis that these molecules exist inthe fluid phases as a mixture of the trans and gauche conformers. Ab initio calculations employing various basissets have been used to obtain the more stable rotamer for all of these molecules. 2. INTRODUCTIONIn some recent studies we investigated rotational isomerism in dichioroacetyl fluoride' and dichioroacetyl chloride2 by Raman and infrared spectroscopy in conjunction with ab initio calculations. Both experimental data and theoretical calculations indicated a trans/gauche equilibrium in the gas phase for both compounds. As acontinuation of these earlier investigations we have recorded the infrared and Raman spectra of difluoroacetyl
Corrections to the goldstone expansion

Abstract A perturbation expansion of − lim β→∞ 1 β log 〈F| e −β H |F〉 results in the Goldstone series1). A perturbation expansion of − lim β→∞ 1 β log Tr e −β H may contain corrections to that series. These corrections are discussed for a system of finite volume. It is found that (a) no corrections are obtained unless a class of diagrams is summed before application of the limit β → ∞, (b) the corrections of Luttinger and Ward4) and of Balian, Bloch and De Dominicis3) result from pre-summation of single particle self energies and spirals and (c) if larger classes of diagrams are pre-summed, further corrections result.
Type I PIPK-α regulates directed cell migration by modulating Rac1 plasma membrane targeting and activation

Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI4,5P2) is a critical regulator of cell migration, but the roles of the type I phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinases (PIPKIs), which synthesize PI4,5P2, have yet to be fully defined in this process. In this study, we report that one kinase, PIPKI-α, is a novel upstream regulator of Rac1 that links activated integrins to the regulation of cell migration. We show that PIPKI-α controls integrin-induced translocation of Rac1 to the plasma membrane and thereby regulates Rac1 activation. Strikingly, this function is not shared with other PIPKI isoforms, is independent of catalytic activity, and requires physical interaction of PIPKI-α with the Rac1 polybasic domain. Consistent with its role in Rac1 activation, depletion of PIPKI-α causes pronounced defects in membrane ruffling, actin organization, and focal adhesion formation, and ultimately affects the directional persistence of migration. Thus, our study defines the role of PIPKI-α in cell migration and describes a new mechanism for the spatial regulation of Rac1 activity that is critical for cell migration.
Simple technique for maximal thoracic muscle harvest

We present a modification of technique for standard muscle flap harvest, the placement of cutaneous traction sutures. This technique allows for maximal dissection of the thoracic muscles even through minimal incisions. Through improved exposure and traction, complete dissection of the muscle bed can be performed and the tissue obtained maximized. Because more muscle bulk is obtained with this technique, the need for a second muscle may be prevented.
Gendered Behavior in a Male Preserve: Role Playing at ESPN Zone Chicago

The consumption of spectacular experience is of increasing interest to consumer researchers. Much of this consumption occurs in themed environments. These environments arouse and motivate consumers in multifaceted ways. In this article, we explore the ways in which gendered behavior is elicited and enacted in a sports bar venue. Using ethnographic methods, we examine male role behavior as it is exhibited at ESPN Zone Chicago . We enfold our interpretation of this behavior in theorizing about sport, spectacle, and mass mediation
Impact response of granular layers

Motivated by the wave tailoring potential of granular media, this study aims at evaluating force transmission through granular layers made of spherical particles. 2D simulations based on Hertzian contact law between adjacent particles are performed on two distinct systems: (1) layers consisting of ordered bimaterial lattices, and (2) single material layers with random packing. For the ordered systems, force transmission properties are found to vary with material mismatch and layer thickness. Transmitted force-decay in random configurations is substantially higher than those in the ordered systems.
Towards quantitative biochemistry: research and reports in biochemistry

Correspondence: Nikolay V Dokholyan 120 Mason Farm Rd., Suite 3097, Chapel Hill NC 27599–7260, USA Tel +1 919 843 2513 Fax +1 919 966 2852 Email dokh@unc.edu Since the mid twentieth century the field of biochemistry has evolved significantly (Figure 1). Advances made in the fields of structural, chemical, and systems biology, physics, and computation have shaped the new field of biochemistry such that the emphasis became the cellular-wide view of molecular life at the atomic scale. The principal paradigm in the field shifted from focusing on a single or a few biological molecules to focusing on their cellularand intracellular-wide networks. This shift has resulted in more interdisciplinary approaches to biochemical research, which nowadays combines techniques and strategies from a broad range of fields. The evolution of the field of biochemistry resulted in closer connections to other fields, such as medicinal chemistry, physiology, and medicine. Biochemistry is also one of the central components of the emerging translational medicine paradigm. Over the years biochemistry has evolved from a descriptive to a quantitative field, driven by advances in computational approaches, instrumentation, microfluidics, nanotechnology, among other fields. Therefore, there is a need for a platform for dissemination of new quantitative biochemistry research to the scientific community across disciplines. In this new journal Research and Reports in Biochemistry we welcome new and exciting research in the field of biochemistry. We plan to publish a broad range of papers that include original research, reviews, hypotheses, and notes. Welcome to Research and Reports in Biochemistry.
Removal of chlorite and chlorate ions from water using granular activated carbon

Abstract Bench scale column experiments were performed to determine the ability of granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove chlorite ion (ClO2−, the major by-product of chlorine dioxide, and chlorate ion (ClO3−, with or without natural organic matter, and under various operational conditions. Operational variances included the effect of pH, hydraulic loading, influent concentration and GAC particle size. Initially, all influent ClO2− was reduced to ClO− by GAC, but later carbon capacity for ClO2− reduction was decreased and ClO2− breakthrough was observed. Chlorite ion reduction was improved by decreasing the natural organic matter concentration, decreasing pH, decreasing hydraulic loading, decreasing GAC particle size and increasing temperature. All other parameters were maintained constant, the most effective chlorite ion removal occurred at pH 5. The results may be of interest to many water utilities, which use activated carbon for removal of organic compounds and in filter adsorbers replacing anthracite coal. There was no formation of chlorate ion in the GAC-chlorite system in the dark. Chlorate ion was not reduced by GAC, but was only physically and reversibly sorbed.
Bilateral political relations and sovereign wealth fund investment

Abstract We examine the role of bilateral political relations in sovereign wealth fund (SWF) investment decisions. Our empirical results suggest that political relations play a role in SWF decision making. Contrary to predictions based on the FDI and political relations literature, we find that relative to nations in which they do not invest, SWFs prefer to invest in nations with which they have weaker political relations. Using a two-stage Cragg model, we find that political relations are an important factor in where SWFs invest but matter less in determining how much to invest. Inconsistent with the FDI and political relations literature, these results suggest that SWFs behave differently than rational investors who maximize return while minimizing risk. Consistent with the trade and political relations literature, we find that SWF investment has a positive (negative) impact for relatively closed (open) countries. Our results suggest that SWFs use—at least partially—non-financial motives in investment decisions.
Composition and construction of late Pleistocene end moraines, Durango, Colorado

The late Pleistocene Animas City 2 and Animas City 3 end moraines at the north edge of Durango, Colorado, were built at the terminus of the Animas glacier as ice-marginal aprons of primarily debris-flow sediment interbedded with sandy stream sediment. Sorted sediment and three types of diamicton present in the moraines are interpreted as fluvial sediment, lacustrine sediment, debris-flow sediment, and melt-out till. Melt-out till at one locality represents deposition from the basal, debris-rich parts of the Animas glacier onto the proximal side of the Animas City 3 moraine. Glaciotectonic features in a coarsening-upward sequence of sediment, previously deposited in a proglacial moraine-dammed lake, mark a readvance of the Animas glacier to the Animas City 3 moraine. Based on the character of the sediments and their interbedding, we conclude that the existing moraines were built rapidly (in
Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant SS31 Prevents Amyloid Beta-Induced Mitochondrial Abnormalities and Synaptic Degeneration in Alzheimer's Disease

In neuronal systems, the health and activity of mitochondria and synapses are tightly coupled. For this reason, it has been postulated that mitochondrial abnormalities may, at least in part, drive neurodegeneration in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Mounting evidence from multiple Alzheimer’s disease cell and mouse models and postmortem brains suggest that loss of mitochondrial integrity may be a key factor that mediates synaptic loss. Therefore, the prevention or rescue of mitochondrial dysfunction may help delay or altogether prevent AD-associated neurodegeneration. Since mitochondrial health is heavily dependent on antioxidant defenses, researchers have begun to explore the use of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants as therapeutic tools to prevent neurodegenerative diseases. This review will highlight advances made using a model mitochondria-targeted antioxidant peptide, SS31, as a potential treatment for AD.
EBV-driven B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders: from biology, classification and differential diagnosis to clinical management

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus, affecting >90% of the adult population. EBV targets B-lymphocytes and achieves latent infection in a circular episomal form. Different latency patterns are recognized based on latent gene expression pattern. Latent membrane protein-1 (LMP-1) mimics CD40 and, when self-aggregated, provides a proliferation signal via activating the nuclear factor-kappa B, Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways to promote cellular proliferation. LMP-1 also induces BCL-2 to escape from apoptosis and gives a signal for cell cycle progression by enhancing cyclin-dependent kinase 2 and phosphorylation of retinoblastoma (Rb) protein and by inhibiting p16 and p27. LMP-2A blocks the surface immunoglobulin-mediated lytic cycle reactivation. It also activates the Ras/PI3K/Akt pathway and induces Bcl-xL expression to promote B-cell survival. Recent studies have shown that ebv-microRNAs can provide extra signals for cellular proliferation, cell cycle progression and anti-apoptosis. EBV is well known for association with various types of B-lymphocyte, T-lymphocyte, epithelial cell and mesenchymal cell neoplasms. B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders encompass a broad spectrum of diseases, from benign to malignant. Here we review our current understanding of EBV-induced lymphomagenesis and focus on biology, diagnosis and management of EBV-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders.
On the Role of Vitamin C and Other Antioxidants in Atherogenesis and Vascular Dysfunction

Oxidative stress has been implicated as an important etiologic factor in atherosclerosis and vascular dysfunction. Antioxidants may inhibit atherogenesis and improve vascular function by two different mechanisms. First, lipid-soluble antioxidants present in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), including alpha-tocopherol, and water-soluble antioxidants present in the extracellular fluid of the arterial wall, including ascorbic acid (vitamin C), inhibit LDL oxidation through an LDL-specific antioxidant action. Second, antioxidants present in the cells of the vascular wall decrease cellular production and release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibit endothelial activation (i.e., expression of adhesion molecules and monocyte chemoattractants), and improve the biologic activity of endothelium-derived nitric oxide (EDNO) through a cell- or tissue-specific antioxidant action. alpha-Tocopherol and a number of thiol antioxidants have been shown to decrease adhesion molecule expression and monocyte-endothelial interactions. Vitamin C has been demonstrated to potentiate EDNO activity and normalize vascular function in patients with coronary artery disease and associated risk factors, including hypercholesterolemia, hyperhomocysteinemia, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking.
Robust semi-global stabilization of linear systems with imperfect actuators

This paper deals with the problem of semi-globally stabilizing a linear system in the presence of input additive uncertainties and disturbance using actuators that have imperfect input output characteristics. The input output characteristics of the actuators used include those of dead zone and saturation and are not precisely known. Two design approaches, the low-and-high-gain approach and the low-gain-based variable structure control approach, are taken in solving the problem.
Supramolecular chemistry with macromolecules : Macromolecular knitting, reversible formation of branched polyrotaxanes by self-assembly

Mechanically linked branched polymer 10 was prepared via rotaxane formation by self assembly (knitting) of poly[bis(5-methylene-1,3.-phenylene)-32-crown-1 sebacate] (4) and preformed polyurethane 9 containing N,N'.-bis(β.-oxyethyl)-4,4'-bipyridinium 2PF 6 (paraquat ) moieties in tetrahydrofuran (THF). The interpenetrating structure resulting from knitting the bipyridinium units of the polyurethane through the crown ether cavities of the polyester structure was proved by its color, NMR studies and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) measurements. In accord with its equilibrium nature, the branching process (rotaxane formation) was reversible depending on the solvent and temperature. The branched material was soluble because the two polymeric components were designed to have relativley low molecular weights and the polyurethane to contain only about two paraquat units, so as to be able to carry out solution characterization. However, extension of this concept to higher molecular weight and/or more highly functionalized systems provides interesting possibilities for reversible processing of thermoset-like materials and production of new types of polymeric supermolecules with potentially interesting and controllable properties.
Reactive uptake of ozone on mineral oxides and mineral dusts

Abstract A Knudsen cell apparatus was used to measure the heterogeneous reactive uptake of ozone on mineral oxide powders at 296 K. Commercially available powders including α-Al2O3, α-Fe2O3, SiO2 and kaolinite were investigated as well as two different authentic mineral dusts, China loess and Saharan sand. Initial reactive uptake coefficients, γo,BET, for the purchased powders were measured as 1.2±0.4×10−4 for α-Al2O3, 2.0±0.3×10−4 for α-Fe2O3, 6.3±0.9×10−5 for SiO2 and 3±1×10−5 for kaolinite. Authentic dust samples were found to have γο,BET values of 2.7±0.8×10−5 for China loess and 6±2×10−5 for ground Saharan sand. Pressure dependence studies of this reaction on α-Al2O3 and α-Fe2O3 suggest that the initial uptake of ozone on these mineral oxides is a first-order process. Furthermore, under conditions of this study, these powders exhibit catalytic behavior toward the decomposition of ozone, and have turnover rates greater than one. Additionally, the reactive uptake of ozone on α-Al2O3 showed a small temperature dependence over a range of temperatures from 250 to 330 K, consistent with reports of low energies of activation (∼5–10 kJ mol−1) for ozone destruction on oxide powders.
Reversible activation and inactivation of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase with para-hydroxymercuribenzoate.

Abstract Partially photooxidized m-MDH 3 was readily inactivated with PHMB in contrast to the native enzyme. Native m-MDH was activated by PHMB and the degree of activation was correlated with the DPNH-X content of the enzyme. Both the PHMB activation of native m-MDH and the PHMB inactivation of partially photooxidized m-MDH was quantitatively reversed by thiols.
Role for Protein Phosphorylation in Meiosis and in the Early Cleavage Phase of Amphibian Embryonic Development

DURING maternal embryogenesis, the vertebrate egg is blocked in meiotic prophase. At ovulation it proceeds to the metaphase of the second meiotic division, which is complete after fertilization or an artificial stimulus. The first mitotic division occurs about three hours later, and is followed by a series of rapid mitoses without cell growth. In amphibia, the cell cycle is completed in less than an hour at 180° C. During early cleavage in Xenopus there is reportedly1 no G1 phase, and the G2 is either absent or very short.
The city that became safe: New York's lessons for urban crime and its control

The city that became safe: New York's lessons for urban crime and its control, by Franklin E. Zimring, New York, Oxford University Press, 2012, 245 pp., $29.95 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-19-984442-5 Ne...
Gas gangrene in a cat with aortic embolism

Gas gangrene developed in the hind-limbs of a cat with aortic embolism. The condition occurred even with therapy to increase circulation to the rear legs. Within 48 hours of presentation, gas gangrene rapidly affected both limbs. Post-mortem examination confirmed clostridial myonecrosis, a thromboembolus at the aortic bifurcation and cardiomyopathy.
Explicit and Implicit Multidimensional Compact High-Resolution Shock-Capturing Methods

Two families of explicit and implicit compact high-resolution shock-capturing methods for the multidimensional compressible Euler equations for fluid dynamics are constructed. Some of these schemes can be fourth- and sixth-order accurate away from discontinuities. For the semi-discrete case their shock-capturing properties are of the total variation diminishing (TVD), total variation bounded (TVB), total variation diminishing in the mean (TVDM), essentially nonoscillatory (ENO), or positive type of scheme for 1D scalar hyperbolic conservation laws and are positive schemes in more than one dimension. These higher-order compact schemes require the same grid stencil per spatial direction as their second-order noncompact cousins. The added terms over the second-order noncompact cousins involve extra vector additions but no added flux evaluations. Due to the construction, these schemes can be viewed as approximations to genuinely multidimensional schemes in the sense that they might produce less distortion in spherical type shocks and are more accurate in vortex type flows than schemes based purely on 1D extensions. The extension of these families of compact schemes to coupled nonlinear systems can be accomplished using the Roe approximate Riemann solver, the generalized Steger and Warming flux-vector splitting, or the van Leer type flux-vector splitting. Modification to existing high-resolution second- or third-order noncompact shock-capturing computer codes is minimal. High-resolution shock-capturing properties can also be achieved via a variant of the second-order LaxÂ?Friedrichs numerical flux without the use of Riemann solvers for coupled nonlinear systems with comparable operations count to their classical shock-capturing counterparts. An efficient and compatible high-resolution shock-capturing filter for spatially fourth- and sixth-order classical compact and noncompact schemes is discussed. The simplest extension to viscous flows can be achieved by using the standard fourth-order compact or noncompact formula for the viscous terms.
Molecular analysis of voltage dependence of heterotypic gap junctions formed by connexins 26 and 32

Heterotypic gap junctions formed by pairing Xenopus oocytes expressing hemichannels formed of Cx32 with those expressing hemichannels formed of Cx26 displayed novel transjunctional voltage (Vj) dependence not predicted by the behavior of these connexins in homotypic configurations. Rectification of initial and steady-state currents was observed. Relative positivity and negativity on the Cx26 side of the junction resulted in increased and decreased initial conductance (gj0), respectively. Only relative positivity on the Cx26 decreased steady-state conductance (gj infinity). This behavior suggested that interactions between hemichannels influences gap junction gating. The role of the first extracellular loop (E1) in these interactions was examined by pairing Cx32 and Cx26 with a chimeric connexin in which Cx32 E1 was replaced with Cx26 E1 (Cx32*26E1). Both junctions rectified with gj0/Vj relations that were less steep than that observed for Cx32/Cx26. Decreases in gj infinity occurred for either polarity Vj in the Cx32/Cx32*26E1 junction. Mutation of two amino acids in Cx26 E1 increased the steepness of both the gj0/Vj and gj infinity/Vj relations. These data demonstrate that fast rectification can arise from mismatched E1 domains and that E1 may contribute to the voltage sensing mechanisms underlying both fast and slow Vj-dependent processes.
Level and isomer systematics in even tin isotopes from 108Sn to 118Sn observed in Cd(α, xn) reactions

Abstract The gamma-ray spectra observed when separated cadmium isotopes (A = 106–116) are bombarded by 28–50 MeV α-particles from the Berkeley 2.2 m cyclotron have been studied with Ge(Li) detectors. Levels in even tin isotopes produced by (α, xn) reactions are reported. The prompt and delayed spectra have been studied using nsec time analysis and the natural beam bunching of the cyclotron to give a zero of time. Isomers have been observed in 118Sn with t 1 2 = 20 nsec , 230 nsec and > 500 nsec , in 116Sn with t 1 2 = 350 nsec and > 500 nsec and in 114Sn with t 1 2 > 500 nsec and in 112Sn with t 1 2 = 14 nsec . The level and isomer systematics in the even tin isotopes are discussed. Levels in odd tin isotopes for A = 113 to A = 119 are also discussed.
Effects of Electromagnetic Coupling on a Moving Crack in Polarized Ceramics

An anti-plane, semi-infinite moving crack in polarized ceramics is analyzed using the fully dynamic equations of piezoelectromagnetism. The effects of electromagnetic coupling on fields near the crack tip are examined.
Comment on ``Negative temperature of vortex motion''

In a recent Brief Report and subsequently [Phys. Rev. A 43, 2050 (1991); 44, 8439 (1991)], Berdichevsky, Kunin, and Hussain claim that the Boltzmann temperature'' of a bounded point vortex system is always positive, and that the spatial inhomogeneities that evolve at high energies in such a system are incompatible with ergodicity of the dynamics. The argument given to support these claims neglected the presence of the fluid boundary. We prove that the Boltzmann temperature is in fact always [ital negative], and present evidence that the vortex clumping that has been observed in simulations is consistent with ergodic dynamics.
Imputing missing yield trial data

The Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) statistical model has been demonstrated effective for understanding genotype-environment interactions in yields, estimating yields more accurately, selecting superior genotypes more reliably, and allowing more flexible and efficient experimental designs. However, AMMI had required data for every genotype and environment combination or treatment; i.e., missing data were inadmissible. The present paper addresses the problem. The Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm is implemented for fitting AMMI depite missing data. This missing-data version of AMMI is here termed “EM-AMMI”. EM-AMMI is used to quantify the direct and indirect information in a yield trial, providing theoretical insight into the gain in accuracy observed and into the process of imputing missing data. For a given treatment, the direct yield data are the replicates of that treatment, and the indirect data are all the other yield data in the trial. EM-AMMI is used to inpute missing data for a New York soybean yield trial. Important applications arise from both unintentional and intentional missing data. Empirical measurements demonstrate good predictive success, and statistical theory attributes this success to the Stein effect.
Altered Amino Acid Levels in Multiply Affected Sibships with Seizures

Evidence of genetic factors in seizure disorders by examination of plasma amino acid concentrations in multiply affected sibships was investigated. The strategy of multiply affected sibship ascertainment was used to reduce heterogeneity as one of several potential sources of variation in quantitative amino acid levels. Our results do not support previously reported increases in plasma taurine, aspartic acid, or glutamic acid in seizure patients. However, we do find that multiply affected sibships have significantly elevated plasma concentrations of arginine and asparagine, and significantly decreased ornithine. These amino acid concentrations may be under quantitative genetic control. Within-sibship comparisons indicate that seizure patients have increased glutamine and decreased lysine and phenylalanine, possibly secondary to the seizures. We also find that anticonvulsant use complicates statistical analyses. Further studies to more clearly delineate the genetics of plasma amino acid concentrations (or other quantitative metabolic measures) and their role in seizure disorders are required and will benefit from the use of a homogeneous sampling strategy.
Orbitofrontal cortex volume in late life depression: influence of hyperintense lesions and genetic polymorphisms.

Background Orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) volumetric differences have been reported in depression, but in relatively small samples. Factors associated with these differences are not well described. We examined OFC volumes in a large sample of elderly depressed and non-depressed subjects, exploring the relationship between OFC volume, 5HTTLPR genotype, apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype and hyperintense lesion volume. We hypothesized that smaller OFC volume would be associated with depression, greater hyperintense lesion volume and severity, and APOE epsilon4 or 5HTTLPR short allele carriers. Method A total of 226 depressed and 144 non-depressed older subjects completed 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and genotyping. OFC volumes and lesion volumes were measured using standardized methods. Lesion severity was additionally rated using the Coffey rating scale. Differences between groups were compared while controlling for age, sex and total cerebral volume; separate models added lesion measures and genetic polymorphisms. Results Depressed subjects exhibited smaller OFC volumes. There was a trend for a negative association between white-matter lesion volume and OFC volume; however, rated white-matter lesion severity was significantly negatively associated with OFC volume. There was no association between gray-matter lesion measures or 5HTTLPR genotype and OFC volume. Contrary to our hypothesis, subjects who were APOE epsilon4 allele positive exhibited larger OFC volumes; in secondary analyses, this finding was limited to the non-depressed group. Conclusions Reduced OFC volumes are seen in depression and associated with greater severity of white-matter lesions. Healthy subjects who are APOE epsilon4 allele positive exhibited larger OFC volumes. This finding should be examined in other populations.