cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Axion dark matter detection with cold molecules

Current techniques cannot detect axion dark matter over much of its parameter space, particularly in the theoretically well-motivated region where the axion decay constant ${f}_{a}$ lies near the grand unified theory (GUT) and Planck scales. We suggest a novel experimental method to search for QCD axion dark matter in this region. The axion field oscillates at a frequency equal to its mass when it is a component of dark matter. These oscillations induce time varying CP-odd nuclear moments, such as electric dipole and Schiff moments. The coupling between internal atomic fields and these nuclear moments gives rise to time varying shifts to atomic energy levels. These effects can be enhanced by using elements with large Schiff moments such as the light Actinides, and states with large spontaneous parity violation, such as molecules in a background electric field. The energy level shift in such a molecule can be $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}24}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{eV}$ or larger. While challenging, this energy shift may be observable in a molecular clock configuration with technology presently under development. The detectability of this energy shift is enhanced by the fact that it is a time varying shift whose oscillation frequency is set by fundamental physics, and is therefore independent of the details of the experiment. This signal is most easily observed in the sub-MHz range, allowing detection when ${f}_{a}$ is $\ensuremath{\gtrsim}{10}^{16}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$, and possibly as low as ${10}^{15}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{GeV}$. A discovery in such an experiment would not only reveal the nature of dark matter and confirm the axion as the solution to the strong CP problem, it would also provide a glimpse of physics at the highest energy scales, far beyond what can be directly probed in the laboratory.
Effect of disk support system dynamics on the stability of head–disk interface during an operational shock in a mobile hard disk drive

There has been a substantial increase in the demand of hard disk drives (HDD) for mobile electronic devices like laptop, camcorders, etc. Mobile HDDs are often subjected to harsh working environments and hence require higher shock resistance for better reliability performance. In this paper, we develop a model for the mobile disk drive to numerically investigate the dynamics of the head–disk interface (HDI) during an operational shock. The results show that the disk and its support system design have a strong influence on the shock resistance. This study can help improve the HDD components and air bearing design for a better shock performance.
The importance of opioid tolerance: a therapeutic paradox.

Surgeons appreciate that a responsibility to manage pain is an integral part of their practice. Multiple treatment modalities for optimally managing pain are frequently necessary, but knowledgeable use of analgesic drugs is the most essential because drug therapy is the mainstay of pain treatment. The most important analgesic drug group to understand is the opioids. Opioids are potent, versatile, and safe (except for meperidine and propoxyphene, which have toxic metabolites), but they are frequently underused in patients with chronic pain, such as cancer patients, who are commonly seen in a surgical practice. Physicians are aware of the dangers of opioid use, particularly respiratory depression, but many have an incomplete understanding of the safety of opioids, particularly with longterm use. This leads to underprescribing and to inadequate pain relief. The safety of opioids is related to two unique pharmacologic properties and to the development of tolerance.
Gender dimorphism in trauma-hemorrhage-induced thymocyte apoptosis.

ABSTRACT Studies indicate that immune responses after trauma-hemorrhage are significantly depressed in males compared with enhanced immune responses in females under such conditions. Although androgen depletion in male mice by castration before soft tissue trauma and hemorrhagic shock prevents the depression of cell-mediated immunity, the underlying mechanism responsible for this remains unclear. Because the thymus is the primary location of T-cell lymphopoiesis and thymocytes express a large number of androgen receptors, we investigated whether differences in thymic apoptosis might contribute to the divergent immune response in males versus females after trauma-hemorrhage. To study this, male and female C3H/HeN mice were subjected to sham operation or soft tissue trauma (laparotomy) and hemorrhagic shock followed by fluid resuscitation. Animals were killed 72 h thereafter and thymocytes were isolated. Thymocyte interleukin 3 (IL-3) release was significantly suppressed in males, but not females, after trauma-hemorrhage. A parallel increase in thymic apoptosis that was primarily in the CD8+ thymocyte subset was observed in the males. Furthermore, In vitro treatment of thymocytes with 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increased the rate of apoptosis and decreased IL-3 release in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, the gender-dependent dimorphic immune response after trauma-hemorrhage may be in part due to an androgen-induced increase in thymic apoptosis in males under such conditions.
Post-hypophysectomy insulin response in patients with advanced breast cancer.

Seven postmenopausal women with metastic breast cancer underwent transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. The rate of disappearance, k*, of iv glucose and insulin following iv glucose and 1-arginine infusion was determined before and after the ablation. The k* was estimated with a linear least squares weighted regression method. The insulin secretory capacity of the pancreas before and after the ablation was evaluated with the index of insulinogenic reserve, the index representing the quantity of insulin secreted per unit of glycemic stimulus. Following iv glucose and arginine, there was no significant difference in the mean k* for glucose and insulin, before and after the ablation. The insulinogenic index before was lower than the normal. After hypophysectomy, the index decreased further for the first 30 min following iv glucose. In patients with advanced cancer the index of insulinogenic reserve is lower than normal and is suppressed further by hypophysectomy.
Scanning force microscopy: new instrumentation and applications

New instrumentation has led to new ways in which to generate image contrast in scanning force microscopy. Friction and adhesion forces can be used to map out local surface chemistry or biological activity. Gradients of electric or magnetic fields can be used to determine the distribution of liquids, surfactants or polymers adsorbed to surfaces. ‘Tapping’ the scanning tip against a surface can reveal local viscosity, surface compliance or shape fluctuations in addition to minimizing surface interactions.
Behaviors, Noncognitive Skills, and School Choice

While choice opponents and proponents tend to focus on how programs impact achievement, the growing body of research indicating a strong relationship between future outcomes and noncognitive skills indicates a need to broaden the basis for assessing programs. This article synthesizes the existing literature on the development of noncognitive skills in private schools, charter schools, and public school choice programs. Comprehensive knowledge of the effects of school choice should include an understanding of the promotion of noncognitive skills and socially acceptable behavior in choice settings. This article highlights the need for future research examining the impacts of schools of choice on noncognitive skill development and student behaviors.
Toxicologic and metabolic studies on pentachloronitrobenzene.

In studies on technical grade pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB), in a 3-generation reproduction study on rats, no adverse effects on any parameter appeared from diet levels through 500 ppm. Two-year feeding to beagle dogs established 30 ppm as the highest no-effect level tested; cholestatic hepatosis with secondary bile nephrosis was found in minimal degree on 180 ppm and in moderate degree on 1080 ppm, but was considered to be a reversible lesion. Storage of PCNB did not occur in tissues of the rat, dog, or cow (the latter fed at levels up to 1000 ppm). Traces of apparent PCNB were found in milk from treated cows, but this was also common to milk from control cows (analysis of the feed used showed apparent PCNB). Pentachloroaniline and methyl pentachlorophenyl sulfide, metabolites of PCNB, were found in tissues of treated animals of all 3 species, which together with absence of PCNB indicates rapid metabolism of the latter. In contrast, tissue storage of hexachlorobenzene and pentachlorobenzene, contaminants of technical PCNB, was found in all 3 species, in degrees paralleling their contents in the PCNB, indicative of a slower rate of metabolism of these compounds. Since PCNB is proposed for use as a soil fungicide in combination with 5-ethoxy-3-trichloromethyl-1,2,4-thiadiazole (Terrazole®), the possibility of potentiation of toxicity was examined in acute oral tests on rats; no potentiation was found. In acute (24-hr) percutaneous toxicity tests in rabbits, no signs of intoxication resulted from application of 4 g/kg of PCNB as a 30% solution in corn oil.
ENZYMATIC SEPARATION OF CIS AND TRANS ISOMERS OF ALICYCLIC ALCOHOLS

Abstract It has been discovered that phosphatases [alkaline phosphatase, orthophosphoric-monoester phosphohydrolase (alkaline optimum), EC 3.1.3.1, and acid phosphatase, orthophosphoric-monoester phosphohydrolase (acid optimum), EC 3.1.3.2] display a remarkable geometric specificity in the hydrolysis of cis and trans isomers of monoorthophosphate esters of substituted alicy clicalcohols. While steric hindrances prevent potato acid phosphatase from hydrolysing cis -2-methylcyclohexyl and cis -2-methylcyclopentyl phosphates, the corresponding trans isomers are readily hydrolysed by the enzyme (non-enzymatic, acid-catalysed or base-catalysed hydrolyses of the cis and trans isomers occur at similar rates). Cis isomers of methylcyclohexyl phosphates, in which the methyl group is remote from the hydrolysed ester bond, 3- or 4-, have nearly the same reactivities to phosphatases as their trans counterparts . However, if the methyl group in position 4 is replaced by a bulky substituent, e.g. tert-butyl, phosphatases again hydrolyse only the trans and not the cis isomer. These phenomena afford a simple method for preparative separation of cis and trans isomers of alicyclic alcohols: a mixture of the isomers is first phosphorylated with POCl 3 and then hydrolysed by phosphatase. The trans alcohol formed is extracted with CCl 4 , followed by alkaline hydrolysis of the remaining cis -tester and subsequent extraction of the cis alcohol produced.
A concept for a tunable antenna-coupled intersubband terahertz (TACIT) detector

Abstract Detectors based on intersubband transitions in quantum wells have great potential for use between one and several terahertz. We propose a tunable, antenna-coupled, intersubband terahertz (TACIT) detector that is both sensitive and fast, with a speed limited only by the intersubband relaxation rate (1 ns at T=10 K ,⩽10 ps at T=50 K ). The detector is sensitive over a narrow range of frequencies, and the frequency of peak absorption can be tuned by applying a bias voltage to the device.
Effects of extreme surface roughness on 3D printed horn antenna

3D printing is an emerging technology in manufacturing. It is the long-term goal of the industry to print complex and fully functional products from cell phones to vehicles. A drawback of many 3D printing technologies is rough surface finish. It is known that metals with high surface roughness severely degrade the propagation of electromagnetic waves. Presented is the first known evaluation of the electromagnetic impact of the typical surface roughness in metal parts produced by electron beam melting. Two Ku-band (12-15 GHz) horn antennas were 3D printed, with different surface roughness, and compared to a standard horn antenna purchased from Pasternack.
Comparing Elections in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries after the Arab Spring: The United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait

This article discusses the elections that were held in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait after the Arab Spring. Through comparison of the elections using a set of predetermined analytical criteria, the article aims to evaluate the way the Arab Spring has influenced the various electoral processes in these three countries and to assess the role given to elections under authoritarian regimes. Notwithstanding some differences, the three processes showed similar limitations: lack of power attributed to elected institutions; limitations on independent candidatures; low participation rates; and failure of the political empowerment of women. Although the three countries were not immune to the Arab Spring, they managed to contain the effects through redistributive, repressive, and electoral mechanisms. The latter served also as a limited re-legitimizing movement by the regimes in the face of their own citizens following the regional protests.
Asynchronous development of two monoclonal proteins (igm λ and γ1 chains) in a patient with abdominal lymphoma

An IgM paraprotein was detected in a patient with abdominal lymphoma. Due to some doubts about the malignant nature of the situation, no cytostatic drugs were administered. When seen two years later the patient had considerably deteriorated in clinical status, with evidence of extra-abdominal involvement. At this time he presented a second paraprotein of low of molecular weight (74,000 to 80,000), consisting of two covalently linked delta1-chain fragments.
Magnetic Resonance of Isotope Hybrid Flavoprotein 2H-Flavoprotein (1-Flavin Mononucleotide)

FLAVOPROTEINS lend themselves particularly well to study by the combined techniques of magnetic resonance and isotope substitution1–3. Recent electron spin resonance (ESR) and electron-nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) investigations have already indicated the utility of this approach to the study of the structure and function of flavin and flavoproteins4–8. We have now prepared an unusual isotope hybrid flavoprotein that gives promise of great value for magnetic resonance studies. This substance is obtained by the introduction (by exchange) of an 1H-flavin mononucleotide (1H-FMN) prosthetic group into (fully deuterated) 2H-flavoprotein that can be isolated from the blue-green thermophilic alga Synechococcus lividus. This isotope hybrid protein makes it possible to apply in a unique way proton magnetic resonance (PMR) and ESR to the chemistry of protein-bound FMN.
Outpatient drug safety: new steps in an old direction.

Iatrogenic injury from adverse drug events (ADEs) is a common and often preventable problem in modern medical practice. Attention to this problem has focused on the inpatient hospital setting and healthcare professionals. However, most medication is prescribed and used outside of hospitals and is managed by patients or lay caregivers in homes or workplaces. To address the public health problem of outpatient drug safety, interventions to prevent adverse events must recognize the central role of the patient in medication management and environmental factors specific to the outpatient setting. Lessons and techniques from the field of injury prevention should guide the development and implementation of safety interventions. First, Haddon's phase-factor matrix can be used to help conceptualize outpatient drug safety interventions. Second, interventions to improve outpatient drug safety should be patient-centered and extend beyond patient education to include engineering innovations and enforcement strategies. Third, the sustainability of active versus passive interventions should be considered when choosing safety interventions. Published in 2006 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simvastatin inhibition of mevalonate pathway induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells via activation of JNK/CHOP/DR5 signaling pathway

Simvastatin (SVA) was shown to up-regulate expression of death receptor-5 (DR5), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) and phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (pJNK) in human breast cancer cell lines. siRNA knockdown of DR5, CHOP or JNK significantly blocked SVA-induced apoptosis, demonstrating the importance of JNK/CHOP/DR5 signaling pathway in SVA-induced apoptosis. Exogenous addition of either mevalonate or geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) inhibited SVA activation of JNK/CHOP/DR5 pro-apoptotic pathway, indicating that activation of JNK/CHOP/DR5 pro-apoptotic pathway is dependent on SVA inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase and its intermediate GGPP. Data provide novel insight into better understanding the anticancer mechanisms of SVA.
Tertiary extensional fault systems on the western margin of the North Sea basin

Major thin-skinned fault systems of Tertiary age, detaching on Permian salt, are present on the platform west of the Central Graben in the Central and Southern North Sea. In plan view the fault systems describe two large arcs which are separated by the Mid North Sea High, partially encircling the West Central Shelf of the Central North Sea and the Silver Pit Basin in the Southern North Sea. The fault trends broadly follow the strike of base salt topography. The geometry of individual faults reflects lateral variation in the role of basement faults and pre-existing Mesozoic thin-skinned extensional structures. Dominant down-to-the-basin fault polarity suggests that the fault systems represent the limit of a gravity-driven slip zone. Extension is largely balanced by down-dip growth of fold structures. Further implications for hydrocarbon exploration include growth of roll-over fold closures adjacent to the fault zones and creation of a tectonic barrier to up-dip fluid migration.
Controlled synthesis of a new, soluble, conjugated metallopolymer containing ruthenium chromophoric units

The synthesis and electrochemical and photophysical characterization of monomeric, dimeric, and polymeric polypyridyl ruthenium(II) complexes of the novel conjugated polymer system poly[1-(2,2‘-bipyridine-4-yl)-1,4-diazabutadiene-4,4‘-diyl] (polyazabpy) are described. The polyazabpy system differs from other metalated polymeric systems described in the literature because of its solubility in organic solvents and synthetic versatility and control.
The delayed effect of growth hormone on renal function in humans.

The delayed effect of growth hormone on renal function in humans. Growth hormone is reported to increase renal plasma flow (RPF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in some but not all studies. The discrepant results could be due to a delay in the effects of growth hormone on renal function. We therefore examined whether a growth hormone injection does increase RPF and GFR, whether this increase is delayed, and whether elevation in RPF and GFR is associated with increased plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I). Seven normal adults received a single intramuscular injection of growth hormone, 0.15mg/kg, and serial PAH and inulin clearances were then monitored for three consecutive days. Plasma growth hormone levels peaked an average of 2.25 hours after injection, at 128 ± 12 SEM ng/ml, and then began to decrease; on the second day values were only slightly elevated and on the third day they were not different from baseline. Plasma IGF-I, analyzed by direct radioimmunoassay, did not change on the first day during 5.5 hours of measurements after injection. By the second day, plasma IGF-I was elevated to over twice baseline levels (P 2 , respectively) during the 5.5 hours after injection on the first day. By the second day, RPF had risen to 715 ± 21, P 2 , P
Laser Probes and Numerical Modeling as Process Diagnostics in Chemical Vapor Deposition

The chemical vapor deposition process consists of a chemically reacting flow in which the fluid mechanics and chemical kinetics are strongly coupled. Laser probes such as Raman spectroscopy and laser induced fluorescence can be used to measure gas temperature fields and chemical species concentrations, but often the interpretation of such data is difficult because several interacting chemical and physical phenomena are occurring simultaneously. Detailed numerical modeling of the experimental system under study provides valuable insights into these interactions and allows one to make useful comparisons between experiment and the model to gain a fundamental understanding of the CVD process. Examples of this approach are given for silicon deposition from silane and fluid mechanics diagnostics in a rotating disk CVD reactor. 19 refs., 8 figs.
Comparison of intra-arterial and manual auscultation of blood pressure during submaximal exercise in humans

Blood pressure (BP) is a key measure of cardiovascular function, and accurate measurement is important to ensure proper clinical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. We compared intra-arterial (di...
Commodities and Sexual Subjectivities: A Look at Capitalism and Its Desires

ABSTRACT The links between the production of sexual subjectivity and commodity consumption exemplify how capitalism thrives through the production of plurality and difference. Tupperware-style sex-toy parties organized by and for women provide the ethnographic ground for exploring the question of how sex toys marketed in this venue incite consumer desires and reshape sexual practices. Using an interpretative approach to understanding the effects of the home-based parties as well as in-depth interviews with participants, this article demonstrates how marketing practices encourage the proliferation of multiple sexualities.
A theoretical and numerical study of thin film delamination using the pull-off test

An accurate closed-form analytical solution for the strain energy release rate for a thin rectangular film loaded by a central line force using the pull-off test is derived in the presence of a tensile residual stress. The theoretical constitutive relation and the strain energy release rate agree very well with two-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis for the entire deformation regime ranging from bending plate to stretching membrane. Fracture modes for this pull-off test are also investigated based upon the finite element analysis, offering additional insights to the interfacial delamination.
Modeling the effects of acid leaching on concrete

This paper describes a partial differential equation model used to determine the service life of buried concrete vaults exposed to acidic ground water. A graphics package helped immeasurably in debugging and testing the algorithm. The collocation program developed in APL can easily be applied to solve other problems.
Inhibition of Hsp70 by Methylene Blue Affects Signaling Protein Function and Ubiquitination and Modulates Polyglutamine Protein Degradation

The Hsp90/Hsp70-based chaperone machinery regulates the activity and degradation of many signaling proteins. Cycling with Hsp90 stabilizes client proteins, whereas Hsp70 interacts with chaperone-dependent E3 ubiquitin ligases to promote protein degradation. To probe these actions, small molecule inhibitors of Hsp70 would be extremely useful; however, few have been identified. Here we test the effects of methylene blue, a recently described inhibitor of Hsp70 ATPase activity, in three well established systems of increasing complexity. First, we demonstrate that methylene blue inhibits the ability of the purified Hsp90/Hsp70-based chaperone machinery to enable ligand binding by the glucocorticoid receptor and show that this effect is due to specific inhibition of Hsp70. Next, we establish that ubiquitination of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase by the native ubiquitinating system of reticulocyte lysate is dependent upon both Hsp70 and the E3 ubiquitin ligase CHIP and is blocked by methylene blue. Finally, we demonstrate that methylene blue impairs degradation of the polyglutamine expanded androgen receptor, an Hsp90 client mutated in spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy. In contrast, degradation of an amino-terminal fragment of the receptor, which lacks the ligand binding domain and, therefore, is not a client of the Hsp90/Hsp70-based chaperone machinery, is enhanced through homeostatic induction of autophagy that occurs when Hsp70-dependent proteasomal degradation is inhibited by methylene blue. Our data demonstrate the utility of methylene blue in defining Hsp70-dependent functions and reveal divergent effects on polyglutamine protein degradation depending on whether the substrate is an Hsp90 client.
Structure of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition among a National Sample of Referred Students.

The structure of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition (WISC-IV; D. Wechsler, 2003a) was analyzed via confirmatory factor analysis among a national sample of 355 students referred for psychoeducational evaluation by 93 school psychologists from 35 states. The structure of the WISC-IV core battery was best represented by four first-order factors as per D. Wechsler (2003b), plus a general intelligence factor in a direct hierarchical model. The general factor was the predominate source of variation among WISC-IV subtests, accounting for 48% of the total variance and 75% of the common variance. The largest 1st-order factor, Processing Speed, only accounted for 6.1% total and 9.5% common variance. Given these explanatory contributions, recommendations favoring interpretation of the 1st-order factor scores over the general intelligence score appear to be misguided.
The Old World species of the tribe Typopsilopini (Diptera: Ephydridae)

SYNOPSIS Typopsilopa Cresson, Eleleides Cresson, and Psilopoidea Cresson, the Old World genera of the notiphiline tribe Typopsilopini, are reviewed, and diagnoses and a key are provided. The male genitalia of Typopsilopa and Eleleides are described and figured, and a key based on the male genitalia is given for the seven known Old World species of Typopsilopa, four of which are described as new: one from Abyssinia, one from Madagascar, and two from Japan.
Stem/Progenitor Cells in Mouse Mammary Gland Development and Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a genetically and clinically heterogeneous disease. It is unclear whether different target cells contribute to this heterogeneity and which cell types are most susceptible to oncogenesis. Stem cells are speculated to be the cellular origin of at least a subset of human breast cancers. To begin to address these issues, we have isolated and characterized cell populations enriched in normal mammary stem/progenitors and have studied the expression of putative stem/progenitor markers in tumors derived from genetically engineered mice. Specifically, transgenic activation of Wnt signaling in the mammary gland induces tumors comprised of epithelial and myoepithelial cells harboring the same genetic defect implying that the tumor arose from transformation of a bipotent progenitor cell. On the other hand, transgenic activation of Neu signaling induces tumors comprising cells of more limited lineage capacity. Thus, the heterogeneity of different breast cancers may reflect the activation of different oncogenic pathways, different cellular targets in which these genetic changes occur, or both.
Death Beliefs and Practices from an Asian Indian American Hindu Perspective

The purpose of this article was to explore Asian Indian American Hindu (AIAH) cultural views related to death and dying. Three focus group interviews were conducted with AIAH persons living in the southern region of United States. The focus group consisted of senior citizens, middle-aged adults, and young adults. Both open-ended and semistructured questions were asked to elicit discussions that would uncover the meanings respondents attribute to death, as well as their pre- and post-death practices. All the sessions were tape recorded. Two independent researchers examined the transcripts of the 3 sessions and generated common themes. The results of this qualitative study indicate that all 3 generations were believers in the afterlife and the karmic philosophy. However, they exhibited differences in the degree to which Hindu traditions surrounding death and bereavement have been influenced by the fact that they live in the United States. Implications for service providers are included.
On the Srikar-Ghosh MILP model for the iVx M SDST flowshop problem

SUMMARY This paper reports corrections to the Srikar and Ghosh MILP model for the SDST (sequence dependent sel-up times) flowshop model. Included is the correct formulation for minimizing mean flow time of the set of jobs. A condition under which SDST problems can be optimized by this model, even when the triangular inequality of set-up times is violated, is derived. Three new MILP flowshop models, inspired by the study of the Srikar and Ghosh work, are presented.
Electron diffraction of precipitates at copper-cordierite interfaces

Abstract The precipitation of copper particles at the interface between a copper rod and a MgO-Al 2 O 3 -SiO 2 ceramic was investigated by Robinson back-scattered SEM and convergent beam micro-diffraction TEM. A 20 μm wide zone depleted of copper separated the copper rod from a 70 μ m region of copper-containing particles dispersed in the ceramic matrix. The precipitates were crystallographically identified as elemental copper by matching of convergent beam, inelastically-scattered, Kikuchi patterns.
Combined use of intense pulsed light and Q-switched ruby laser for complex dyspigmentation among Asian patients.

Background Dyspigmentation is a common cosmetic concern among Asians. Many individuals exhibit mixed pigmentary entities including melasma, flat/small seborrheic keratoses, ephelides, solar lentigines and acquired bilateral nevus-of-Ota-like macules (ABNOM). We term this phenomenon complex dyspigmentation (CD) and suggest that a combination strategy may be more efficacious than any singular modality. Objective To determine the effectiveness of combined intense-pulsed light (IPL) for global photorejuvenation along with Q-switched ruby laser (QSRL) for targeted pigment dissolution. Study Design/Materials and Methods Twenty-five Korean women with CD (defined as >2 types of facial pigmentary disorders) were initially treated with IPL followed by repeat treatments every 3–4 weeks as needed. The QSRL treatments, set at low fluence, were added either during the same session or within 1 week of the IPL treatment. Improvement was assessed by the patient, the treating physician and a blinded evaluation of pre- and post-treatment photographs. Results Using a 4-point scale (1 = poor, 2 = fair, 3 = good, 4 = excellent), 19/25 patients (76%) reporting good-to-excellent response (score “3” or “4”). Two independent physician assessment revealed that 15/25 patients (60%) showed 76–100% improvement while 19/25 patients (76%) showed at least 50% improvement. Side-effects were minimal: 3 patients had transient post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (12%) and 1 patient (4%) had linear hypopigmentation. Conclusions Combination treatment with IPL and QSRL is an effective and safe treatment for CD among Asian patients. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:128–133, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
S-HARP: A Parallel Dynamic Spectral Partitioner (A short summary)

Computational science problems with adaptive meshes involve dynamic load balancing when implemented on parallel machines. This dynamic load balancing requires fast partitioning of computational meshes at run time. We present in this report a scalable parallel partitioner, called S-HARP. The underlying principles of S-HARP are the fast feature of inertial partitioning and the quality feature of spectral partitioning. S-HARP partitions a graph from scratch, requiring no partition information from previous iterations. Two types of parallelism have been exploited in S-HARP, fine-grain loop-level parallelism and coarse-grain re cursive parallelism. The parallel partitioner has been implemented in Message Passing Interface on Cray T3E and IBM SP2 for portability. Experimental results indicate that S-HARP can partition a mesh of over 100,000 vertices into 256 partitions in 0.2 seconds on a 64-processor Cray T3E. S-HARP is much more scalable than other dynamic partitioners, giving over 15-fold speedup on 64 processors while ParaMeTiS 1.0 gives a few-fold speedup. Experimental results demonstrate that S-HARP is three to 10 times faster than the dynamic partitioners ParaMeTiS and Jostle on six computational meshes of size over 100,000 vertices.
Do the A subunits contribute to the differences in the toxicity of Shiga toxin 1 and Shiga toxin 2

Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (STEC) is one of the leading causes of food-poisoning around the world. Some STEC strains produce Shiga toxin 1 (Stx1) and/or Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) or variants of either toxin, which are critical for the development of hemorrhagic colitis (HC) or hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Currently, there are no therapeutic treatments for HC or HUS. E. coli O157:H7 strains carrying Stx2 are more virulent and are more frequently associated with HUS, which is the most common cause of renal failure in children in the US. The basis for the increased potency of Stx2 is not fully understood. Shiga toxins belong to the AB5 family of protein toxins with an A subunit, which depurinates a universally conserved adenine residue in the α-sarcin/ricin loop (SRL) of the 28S rRNA and five copies of the B subunit responsible for binding to cellular receptors. Recent studies showed differences in the structure, receptor binding, dependence on ribosomal proteins and pathogenicity of Stx1 and Stx2 and supported a role for the B subunit in differential toxicity. However, the current data do not rule out a potential role for the A1 subunits in the differential toxicity of Stx1 and Stx2. This review highlights the recent progress in understanding the differences in the A1 subunits of Stx1 and Stx2 and their role in defining toxicity.
Butyrate sensitizes human colon cancer cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis.

Background. Tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), a novel member of the tumor necrosis factor family, induces apoptosis in TRAIL-sensitive tumors through the activation of the caspase pathway. Sodium butyrate (NaBT) induces differentiation and apoptosis in certain colorectal cancers; the molecular mechanisms for these effects have not been clearly defined. The purpose of our study was to determine whether NaBT sensitizes TRAIL-resistant human colon cancer cells to the effects of TRAIL. Methods. Human colon cancer cells (KM12C, KML4A, and KM20) that are resistant to TRAIL treatment alone were treated with TRAIL (100 ng/mL), NaBT (5 mmol/L), or a combination of these agents and harvested for total RNA and protein. Western blots were performed to assess intracellular expression of Flice-like inhibitory protein (FLIP), a caspase inhibitor. Percent-specific apoptosis, relative caspase-3 activity, and Annexin-V immunofluorescence were determined at 24 and 48 hours. Cell cycle-related gene expression was assessed by RNase protection. Results. Treatment with NaBT for 24 and 48 hours decreased FLIP protein expression in all cell lines. Furthermore, NaBT sensitized these resistant cancer cells to the effects of TRAIL with significant increases noted in cell death, caspase-3 activity, and Annexin-V staining compared with NaBT alone. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that the reduction of FLIP protein levels by NaBT renders TRAIL-resistant human colon cancer cells sensitive to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. The combination of TRAIL with agents (such as NaBT, which target proteins that prevent cell death) may provide a more effective and less toxic regimen for the treatment of resistant colon cancers. (Surgery 2001;130:265-72.)
Aurora and airglow on the night side of Neptune

The latitude-longitude distribution of emissions detected by the Voyager ultraviolet spectrometer on the dark hemisphere of Neptune have been examined. The emissions have two significant geographic features: (1) a broad peak near longitude 60 deg W that extends rather uniformly over the entire range of observed latitudes (55 deg S to 50 deg N); and (2) a brighter, narrower peak near the south pole and 240 deg W. The first peak is interpreted as due to excitation of the night side atmosphere by photoelectrons from the magnetically conjugate, sunlit atmosphere. The second peak can plausibly be attributed to a southern aurora; the field geometry would then seem to require a conjugate (and probably brighter) northern aurora that escaped detection poleward of the latitude range sampled by the UVS data. The power for such an aurora could be extracted from Neptune's rotation by the injection of plasma at Triton's orbit at a rate dm/dt of about 1 kg/s.
Update on the search for genes for bipolar disorder

The past several years have witnessed a series of exciting advances in the genetics of bipolar disorder. Much of this progress has been catalyzed by data and tools emerging from the Human Genome Project. Whereas 4 years ago several chromosomal regions had been identified in linkage studies, now several of the genes in these regions may have been identified. A genetic overlap between bipolar disorder and schizophrenia that was hinted at, now seems certain. Our picture of the genetics of bipolar disorder is also different, with more rather than fewer genes being likely. As daunting as the problem seems to have become, powerful tools have been developed that promise even greater advances. This update reviews this recent progress, and speculates on the future.
[14]Annulene: cis/trans isomerization via two-twist and nondegenerate planar bond shifting and Möbius conformational minima.

Mechanisms linking dihydrooctalenes and the corresponding [14]annulene isomers have been investigated computationally. CCSD(T)/cc-pVDZ//BHLYP/6-31G* calculations suggest that the cis/trans isomerization steps required by these mechanisms can occur with reasonable activation barriers by π-bond shifting, in some cases with two-twist topology, and in others in a planar but nondegenerate fashion. In addition, numerous Mobius conformational minima were located for [14]annulene isomers directly related to the mechanisms studied.
Determination of HBsAg subtypes in different high risk populations using monoclonal antibodies.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies with restricted specificity were used in a modified commercial enzyme immunoassay for detection of HBsAg to subtype HBsAg in sera from 122 Southeast Asian refugees entering the United States, 62 inmates of a correctional facility, and 19 homosexual men. This method was able to classify HBsAg as aywl-2, ayw3, ayw4, ayr, adw2, adw4 , or adr . The HBsAg subtype was identified in 183 (90.1%) of the serum samples, but the serum HBsAg concentration was too low to determine the subtype for the 20 (9.9%) remaining samples. Among the Southeast Asian refugees, aywl-2 was demonstrated in 35 (33.0%) of the subtyped serum samples, the adw2 subtype was identified in 33 (31.1 %) sera, adr was detected in 37 (34.9%) sera, and the adw4 subtype as found in 1 (0.9%). The most common subtypes in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia were aywl-2, adw2 , and adr , respectively. In prison inmates, the ayw3 subtype accounted for 31 (52.5%) of the subtyped serum samples, an ayw2 variant and the adw2 subtype were each found in 13 (22.0%) sera, and the aywl-2 subtype was detected in 2 (3.4%) sera. Many of these inmates admitted intravenous drug use. Among homosexual men, the adw2 subtype was identified in 16 (88.9%) of the subtyped serum samples and the ayw3 subtype was detected in 2 (11.1%) sera. This subtyping method can distinguish between most of the nine major HBsAg subtypes and can be easily performed with these monoclonal antibodies and commercially available reagents.
Nonsymmetric cavity formation at a circular inclusion under remote equibiaxial load

Abstract This paper examines the phenomenon of cavity formation through an analysis of the problem of a plane circular elastic inclusion embedded in an unbounded elastic matrix subject to a remote equibiaxial load. Consistent with infinitesimal strain kinematics, nonlinear behavior is confined to a cohesive zone so that inclusion-matrix interaction is characterized by a nonlinear interface force-interface separation law requiring a characteristic length for its prescription. Equilibrium solutions for both rotationally symmetric and nonsymmetric cavity shapes are sought based on an integral equation formulation together with known elasticity solutions for circular domains. For values of remote load, interface strength and elastic moduli within certain bounds only rotationally symmetric cavities occur under decreasing characteristic length-inclusion radius ratio. At other parameter values the existence of nonsymmetric cavities is studied by performing a linearized bifurcation analysis about the rotationally symmetric equilibrium state. A post bifurcation analysis is carried out by reducing the governing integral equations to a truncated set of nonlinear algebraic equations and analysing those. Stability of equilibrium states is assessed with the Hadamard stability definition. Calculations for the interfacial tractions are carried out as well. The study reveals that rotationally symmetric cavities must give way to the abrupt formation of stable nonsymmetric cavities when the interface force attains its maximum value. Thus, the phenomenon of ductile decohesion, or the gradual opening of a cavity coincident with an unloading of the interface, cannot occur (for the system being studied) without artificially constraining the inclusion against rigid displacement.
New boundary condition treatments in meshfree computation of contact problems

Due to the loss of Kronecker delta properties in the meshfree shape functions, the imposition of essential boundary conditions consumes significant CPU time in meshfree computation. In this work, two boundary condition treatments are proposed to enhance the computational efficiency of meshfree methods for contact problems. The mixed transformation method is modified from the previous full transformation method by introducing a node partitioning and a mixed coordinate so that the matrix inversion and multiplication of coordinate transformation involves operations only on the sub-degrees of freedom associated with the boundary group. The boundary singular kernel method introduces singularities to the kernel functions of the essential and contact boundary nodes so that the corresponding coefficients of the singular kernel shape functions recover nodal values, and consequently kinematic constraints can be imposed directly. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is demonstrated in several numerical examples.
Atrial natriuretic peptide reduces vascular leakage and choroidal neovascularization.

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a hormone with diuretic, natriuretic, and vasodilatory properties. ANP blocks vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production and signaling in vitro; however, its role in vascular leakage and angiogenesis is unknown. In vitro, retinal barrier permeability (transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER)) was measured in cultured retinal endothelial (HuREC) and retinal epithelial (ARPE-19) cells with VEGF (10 ng/ml), ANP (1 pM to 1 μmol/L), and/or isatin, an ANP receptor antagonist. In vivo, blood-retinal barrier (BRB) leakage was studied using the Evans Blue dye technique in rats treated with intravitreal injections of ANP, VEGF, or vehicle. Choroidal neovascularization was generated by laser injury, and 7 days later, lesion size and leakage was quantitated. ANP significantly reversed VEGF-induced BRB TEER reduction in both HuREC and ARPE-19 cells, modeling the inner and the outer BRB, respectively. Isatin, a specific ANP receptor antagonist, reversed ANP’s effect. ANP reduced the response of ARPE-19 cells to VEGF apically but not basolaterally, suggesting polarized expression of the ANP receptors in these cells. ANP’s TEER response was concentration but not time dependent. In vivo, ANP significantly reduced VEGF-induced BRB leakage and the size of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization lesions. In sum, ANP is an effective inhibitor of VEGF-induced vascular leakage and angiogenesis in vivo. These results may lead to new treatments for ocular diseases where VEGF plays a central role, such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
CREATING CONTROL CONFIGURATIONS DURING ORGANIZATIONAL FOUNDING

This article provides theoretical and operational groundwork that will facilitate renewed critical interest in developing control configurations during organizational founding. The real opportunity...
Stormwater nutrient inputs favor growth of non-native macroalgae (Rhodophyta) on O'ahu, Hawaiian Islands

In Hawaii, blooms of native and non-native macroalgae (limu) have become increasingly problematic in recent decades. Although the role of human vectors in introducing non-native macroalgae is well documented, the ecological role of nutrient pollution in facilitating blooms of these species is not. This study assessed the effects of stormwater discharges on the diversity, abundance, and nutrient content (C, N, P and d 15 N) of native and non-native limu at three sites in the intertidal zone at Ewa Beach, O’ahu. The results showed that native limu species diversity and abundance decreased with proximity to a stormwater outfall (ASWO), whereas non-native species abundance increased. Limu tissue d 15 N values at all three sites were within the range reported for sewage N. d 15 N, %N, and N:P ratios all increased with proximity to the ASWO, supporting the hypothesis that stormwater was a primary source of N enrichment in the study area. In contrast to N, limu %P showed little change among the sites, suggesting that the generally high N:P ratios, indicative of P-limitation, resulted from high N:P ratios from the upland watershed. Abundance and tissue %N of the non-native rhodophyte Acanthophora spicifera increased with proximity to the ASWO and were strongly correlated (r 2 = 0.94) compared to native rhodophytes, indicating that stormwater N enrichment provided this invader a competitive advantage (lower C:N ratio) over native limu. These results indicate that the spread of non-native macroalgae in oligotrophic coral reef regions can be facilitated by anthropogenic nutrients in stormwater runoff, thereby threatening native species and ecosystem services.
Impact of Proposed Land Use and Transportation Investments on Future Travel Patterns in California

This study investigated the potential changes in transportation patterns in California associated with the development of smart growth-inspired transportation and land use policies through the application of the California Statewide Travel Demand Model (CSTDM). California's SB (Senate Bill) 375 requires the state's metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) to develop sustainable community strategies (SCS) in their regional transportation plans (RTPs) in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, among other environmental goals, through the integration of land use and transportation planning. Although some SCS were still under development at the time this study was conducted, some concerns had already been raised about whether these proposed policies would be able to achieve the proposed environmental targets. In this study, future transportation demand in California in 2035 was simulated through the application of the CSTDM and the simulation of policy scenarios inspired by the SCS developed before Fe...