cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Public's Understanding, Perceptions, and Acceptance of Nanotechnology through the Lens of Consumer Products

As we look toward sustaining and benefiting from the investments made worldwide in nanotechnology research and development, what systems, funding, and research agendas need to be in place to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with this nanotechnology future? One key component of this future lies within how much the general public and consumers understand about nanotechnology-enabled products, how they are designed, used, and eventually disposed of. This chapter will explore the nanotechnology landscape through the lens of the consumer products inventory developed by the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies; its advantages and limitations in relation to the public’s understanding and perceptions of nanotechnology and the regulatory landscape through which nanotechnology may be regulated.
Circular Sandwich Plates Under Eccentric Load

The governing equations for the nonrotationally symmetrical bending of isotropic circular sandwich plates derived by the writer in a previous paper are applied to obtain the solution for a fixed circular plate subjected to an eccentric concentrated load. The face layers are considered as membranes but made of different materials and unequal thickness; however, for simplicity, Poisson's ratio is assumed to be the same. The solution is presented in a form of an infinite series and for the limiting case where shear modulus of the core approaches infinity the expression becomes identical to the one for a single layer plate without shear deformation as it should be.
Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Esophagectomy with EEA Anastomosis

Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) is now an accepted surgical approach for esophageal malignancy and the occasional benign conditions. Meta-analyses evaluating the results of MIE have shown improved perioperative outcomes and similar oncologic outcomes when compared to open esophagectomy with the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. MIE techniques are now a combination of laparoscopy and thoracoscopy for a totally minimally invasive esophagectomy. While this approach is technically demanding and associated with a significant learning curve, it is an excellent option for esophageal resection. In our experience, MIE is associated with a reduction in blood loss, decreased respiratory complications, lower mortality, improved pain control, and a decrease in hospital length of stay.
Autoregulation of phosphorylation of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

We have investigated the regulation of phosphorylation of the nicotinic ACh receptor (nAChR) in rat myotubes by the agonist carbamylcholine. Treatment of primary rat myotube cultures with carbamylcholine resulted in a 100% increase in phosphorylation of the nAChR gamma- (52 kDa) subunit and a 30% increase in phosphorylation of the nAChR delta- (62 kDa) and delta'- (66 kDa) subunits. These responses to carbamylcholine were dose dependent, with a half-maximal response occurring at 10 microM and a maximum response achieved within 2 min. Pretreatment of myotubes with d-tubocurare, but not with atropine, inhibited carbamylcholine-stimulated phosphorylation of the nAChR. Preincubation with open-channel blockers of the nAChR also inhibited phosphorylation of the nAChR induced by carbamylcholine. Depletion of extracellular calcium from myotube cultures prevented carbamylcholine-stimulated increases in nAChR phosphorylation whereas application of a calcium ionophore mimicked the effect of carbamylcholine on nAChR phosphorylation. Pretreatment of myotubes with TTX did not inhibit carbamylcholine-stimulated nAChR phosphorylation and potassium depolarization of myotubes had no effect on nAChR phosphorylation. Carbamylcholine increased nAChR phosphorylation to the same extent and with the same time course and subunit specificity as that induced by phorbol esters. However, chronic treatment of myotubes with phorbol esters that eliminated any subsequent phorbol ester-stimulated nAChR phosphorylation did not diminish the increase in nAChR phosphorylation induced by carbamylcholine. The calmodulin antagonist W7 was similarly unable to inhibit carbamylcholine-stimulated nAChR phosphorylation. These results suggest that the nAChR is a substrate for an uncharacterized protein kinase in situ, and that activity of this protein kinase is stimulated by calcium ions that permeate through the activated nAChR ion channel.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Pyridine nucleotide transhydrogenase from Chromatium.

Abstract The isolation and purification of a soluble transhydrogenase from Chromatium is described. The enzyme promotes the oxidation of reduced triphosphopyridine nucleotide by diphosphopyridine nucleotide. However, it will also use several analogues of DPN and TPN which include deamino-DPN, deamino-TPN, thionicotinamide DPN, and deamino-DPNH. Nicotinamide mononucleotide was also reduced. The enzyme does not use the 3-acetylpyridine analogues as substrates. TPN and adenosine 2'-phosphate were shown to be competitive inhibitors of the enzyme with TPNH or DPNH as the hydrogen donor. The enzyme is inhibited by mercaptide-forming reagents. The enzyme is compared with previously described transhydrogenases and a possible role in metabolism is discussed.
Existence of the critical point in finite density lattice QCD

We propose a method to probe the nature of phase transitions in lattice QCD at finite temperature and density, which is based on the investigation of an effective potential as a function of the average plaquette. We analyze data obtained in a simulation of two-flavor QCD using p4-improved staggered quarks with bare quark mass m/T=0.4 and find that a first order phase transition line appears in the high density regime for {mu}{sub q}/T > or approx. 2.5. We also discuss the difference between the phase structures of QCD with nonzero quark chemical potential and nonzero isospin chemical potential.
Energy dispersive x-ray microanalysis and its applications in biogeochemical research

The principles and modern techniques of energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis combined with transmission and scanning electron microscopy are briefly reviewed, and possible biogeochemical applications are discussed. This method and certain comparable techniques have the unique distinction of permitting measurement of the abundances of various metallic and nonmetallic elements in visually selected, individually analysed living and nonliving microscopic entities (for instance, bacterial cells and clay-sized particles) in heterogeneous natural materials, such as soils and sediments, in their native state. Indeed, specific subunits of these entities (for example, the cell wall and cytoplasm of a single bacterial cell) can be analysed separately. Hence, the technique has great potential usefulness in research on biogeochemical processes in natural environments and related experimental systems. Examples of published research results are presented, with particular reference to recent work on the accumulation and partitioning of heavy metals by bacteria and associated nonliving matter in polluted lake sediments.
Hemostatic abnormalities in multiple myeloma and related disorders.

Patients with multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, benign monoclonal gammopathy, and other B-cell disorders associated with high titer serum paraproteins can manifest unique hemostatic disorders. Most of these disorders predispose the patient to hemorrhage, especially following surgical procedures. Mechanisms can include: acquired von Willebrand syndrome, paraprotein-induced platelet function defects, factor X deficiency, and local tissue fragility associated with amyloidosis, abnormalities of the function of fibrin, circulating anticoagulants, and thrombocytopenia. The mainstay of therapy is the treatment of the underlying disease. Depending on clinical circumstances, additional therapies might include: plasmapheresis with appropriate factor replacement, arginine vasopressin, fibrinolysis inhibitors, and splenectomy. Less commonly, the paraprotein disorders are associated with thrombotic complications, especially in those cases in which the lupus anticoagulant is present.
Calcification of the Basal Ganglia.

Publisher Summary Calcification of the basal ganglia (BG) occurs in many contexts, ranging from incidental findings to disorders of mineral metabolism, and familial forms of cerebral calcinosis. Bilateral striopallidodentate calcinosis (BSPDC), commonly known as Fahr's disease is an idiopathic, familial form of calcification of the BG presented as a combination of Parkinsonism, dementia, and cerebellar signs. Computed tomography (CT) is significantly used for detecting BG calcifications over skull plain films. A subset of BG calcifications exists for which there are identifiable metabolic or degenerative causes. In contrast to incidental cases without a known etiology, these symptomatic calcifications are often associated with a progressive syndrome of Parkinsonism, dystonia, chorea, and tremor. The conditions associated with symptomatic BG calcifications can be essentially classified into idiopathic or secondary causes. BSPDC is characterized with varying symptoms of dementia, dysarthria, Parkinsonism, pyramidal, and cerebellar signs. Onset of symptoms typically occurs between 30 and 50 years, and cognitive symptoms are not uncommon. The cognitive aspects of BSPDC are well documented and supported by frontal–subcortical circuits.
Southern women writing about southern women: Jill Mccorkle, Lisa Alther, Ellen Gilchrist, and Lee Smith

(1986). Southern women writing about southern women: Jill Mccorkle, Lisa Alther, Ellen Gilchrist, and Lee Smith. Sociological Spectrum: Vol. 6, Southern Women, pp. 109-116.
Sexual maturation among members of a transported troop of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata)

Data on the sexual maturation of a transported natural troop of Japanese macaques were collected during the 1973–74 and 1974–75 breeding seasons. Analysis of the data revealed that the sexual maturation of many monkeys was delayed one to two years. It is suggested that the delay of sexual maturation is related to a failure of the pubescent-aged monkeys to attain appropriate weight levels after transportation.
The water-channel forming ability of heptapeptide-based anion channels: insights from molecular dynamics simulations

Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to gain insight into the channel-forming capabilities of the SCMTR class of anion channels. These results support pore formation by the experimentally predicted single-surface dimeric SCMTR configuration. Simulated currents of 11.1 pA and 3.7 pA were reported for simulations involving a charge imbalance on either side of the bilayer and simulations where an electric field is applied, respectively. Stable water-channels were formed; these began from the SCMTR and extended to the opposing face. Removal of the driving force within the charge separation simulation was found to close the pore within a 10 ns simulation. As predicted, opposing face lipid head-group rearrangement was found to assist in the stabilization of the water-channel. Furthermore, these results suggest that the SCMTR molecules may help thin the bilayer by moving deeper into its surface and, thereby, helping to stabilize the water-channel. These results confirm that the proposed dimeric insertion model is sufficient to stabilize a channel, while providing atomistic insight into the channel's function.
Cell-specific expression of a Clara cell secretory protein-human growth hormone gene in the bronchiolar epithelium of transgenic mice.

Abstract Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP) is an abundant 10-kDa protein synthesized and secreted by nonciliated epithelial cells lining the respiratory and terminal bronchioles of the lung. CCSP gene expression is an informative developmental marker within the bronchiolar epithelium recapitulating cellular differentiation in the distal respiratory epithelium during late fetal and early postnatal life. To define the mechanisms that establish and maintain gene expression within this epithelium, CCSP-human growth hormone chimeric gene constructs were created and used to generate transgenic mice. RNA blot analysis of organs from F1 transgenic offspring and normal littermates revealed that cis-acting elements within 2.25 kilobases of the 5' flanking region of the CCSP gene were sufficient to direct lung-specific expression of human growth hormone. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry of individual bronchioles revealed that human growth hormone expression in the respiratory epithelium of these mice was confined to Clara cells, consistent with observations of the endogenous CCSP gene. Unexpectedly, founder animals and F1 transgenic offspring exhibited an unusual phenotype of growth retardation and delayed hair appearance, suggesting a unique effect of human growth hormone on normal intrauterine development. CCSP-human growth hormone transgenic mice provide a model to dissect the developmental mechanisms regulating gene expression during pulmonary epithelial cell growth and differentiation. Definition of the cis-acting elements determining such cell-specific expression will be of value in strategies for the somatic gene therapy of human pulmonary disease.
Sediment TMDL Development for the Amite River

The Amite River is recognized as one of the 15 water bodies impaired by sediments in Louisiana, USA. Based on US EPA’s Protocol sediment TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) development is conducted for the Amite River and described in this paper. The TMDL development consists of four components: (1) development of a new model for cohesive sediment transport, (2) estimation of sediment loads (sources) due to watershed erosion, (3) river flow computation, and (4) determination of sediment TMDL for the Amite River. Using the mass conservation principle and Reynolds transport theorem a new 1-D model has been developed for computation of suspended cohesive sediment transport. Sediment erosion in the Amite River Basin is calculated by combining the USLE (Universal Soil Loss Equation) model with GIS and the digital elevation model of the Amite River Basin. Digital elevation data was imported into the GIS which generated inputs for USLE. The calculated average annual rate of soil erosion in the Amite River Basin is 13.368 tons per ha, producing a nonpoint sediment load of 103 mg/L to the Amite River. The flow computation is performed using the HEC-RAS software. The computed sediment concentration in the Amite River varies in the range of 3–114 mg/L and sediment TMDL is 281.219 tons/day. The reduction necessary to support beneficial uses of the river is 55% or 275.946 tons/day. Results indicate that the combined application of the new 1-D sediment transport model, GIS, USLE model, and HEC-RAS is an efficient and effective approach to sediment TMDL development.
Variability of effective root torque as a function of edge bevel on orthodontic arch wires

The effective torque delivered by a variety of arch wire-bracket combinations has been measured experimentally in terms of the deviation angle, by means of a torque-meter apparatus, and compared to theoretical values calculated from both nominal and measured bracket slot and wire dimensions. Edgewise brackets with both 0.018 and 0.022 inch slot widths from two manufacturers were used, with three different arch wire sizes for each slot size. Stainless steel, nickel-cobalt, and beta titanium wires from a total of three manufacturers were employed. The present effective torque values were less than the theoretical values previously reported by Dellinger and Creekmore, who had separately focused on manufacturer tolerances associated with the wire cross sections and slot widths, respectively. Differences between the experimental and theoretical values of deviation angle were in agreement with measurements of the wire-bracket tolerances and with microscopic observations of differences in the edge bevel at the corners of the arch wires. The average edge bevel contribution to the measured deviation angle varied from 0.2 degrees to 12.9 degrees for the various wire-bracket groups, and the average percentage contribution from 3 to 63%. The edge bevel contribution to the deviation angle was higher for stainless steel wires than for nickel-cobalt wires marketed as square-cornered. The highest deviation angles and edge bevel contributions were found for the beta titanium wires.
Oceans, Islands, and Coasts: Current Perspectives on the Role of the Sea in Human Prehistory

ABSTRACT Archaeological studies of island and coastal societies have advanced significantly over the years. Long marginalized as relatively recent developments, coastal, maritime, and island adaptations are now recognized as having a much longer and more complex history. Consequently, the archaeology of island and coastal societies has become increasingly relevant to a variety of important anthropological and historical topics. In this paper, we discuss some current issues in island and coastal archaeology, including: (1) the antiquity of coastal adaptations and maritime migrations; (2) variations in marine or coastal productivity; (3) the development of specialized maritime technologies and capabilities; (4) underwater archaeology and drowned terrestrial landscapes; (5) cultural responses to insularity, isolation, and circumscription; (6) cultural contacts and historical processes; (7) human impacts and historical ecology in island and coastal ecosystems; and (8) the conservation and management of island...
Decentralization within the United Nations system

Since 1977 there have been two major efforts by the General Assembly to restructure and improve the economic and social sectors of the United Nations (UN). The first was an attempt to restructure the UN system, and the second, currently in early stages of implementation, is the result of the work of a high-level group of intergovernmental experts established in 1985 to review and recommend measures for improving the efficiency of the administration and financial functioning of the UN. The first effort gave an impetus to decentralization, which had already been the subject of earlier discussions. Decentralization has affected, in varying degrees, many organizations of the system. With respect to the UN and its regional commissions, it has been raised in connection with decentralizing operational and programme activities to the commissions and in giving them the means to exercise team leadership within the system at the regional level. Only in the first instance has there been some success, with the transfer to the commissions of management support functions for project implementation previously carried out by UN Headquarters. The structural difficulties and organizational complexities of the UN system are explained, to show why achievements in decentralization have been limited. In spite of expectations and possibilities for decentralization which exist in the framework of current reforms, action on decentralization will continue to remain rather contained.
Non-contrasted Computed Tomography for the Accurate Measurement of Liver Steatosis in Obese Patients

Background Hepatic macrosteatosis (HMS) is prevalent among high BMI patients, but a lack of validation of non-invasive measures of liver fat hampers non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) investigation in general. Recent work suggests BMI adjusted, non-contrasted computed tomography (nc-CT) attenuation data (Hounsfield units) reflects liver fat accumulation in a normal weight population. However, this and other CT-based HMS studies have only approximated macrosteatosis (%) histologically, but have not validated findings with chemical liver triglyceride (TG) concentrations (mg/gram protein). Also, all previous CT based steatosis studies excluded high BMI subjects, whose habitus may affect properties of the scan. We hypothesized that in high BMI patients nc-CT attenuation measurements expressed in Hounsfield units (HU) accurately estimate liver triglyceride concentrations as well as histological macrosteatosis.
Centralized Time-Dependent Multiple-Carrier Collaboration Problem for Less-Than-Truckload Carriers

This paper addresses a time-dependent, centralized multiple-carrier collaboration problem (TD-MCCP) for the small to medium-sized less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. The TD-MCCP represents a strategy in which a central entity (such as a third-party logistics firm) seeks to minimize the total system costs of an LTL carrier collaborative that consists of multiple carriers by identifying collaborative opportunities over a shared network under three rate-setting behavioral strategies and a leasing alternative. In contrast to conventional time-dependent network problems that view demand as dynamic, capacities in the proposed LTL multiple-carrier collaborative framework are time-dependent but known a priori, and demand is fixed. The TD-MCCP is modeled as a binary (0-1) multi-commodity minimum cost-flow problem formulation for two rate-setting behavioral cases and solved with a branch-and-cut algorithm. The first case examines the effect of one rate-setting behavioral strategy at a time, and the second case exam...
Optimized single-mode tapped tee data bus

Here we report on the design and implementation of an optimized 15-terminal 13-coupler tapped tee data bus. The system uses newly developed low loss biconically tapered fused fiber couplers, commercially available fiber pigtailed laser diode sources complete with 1-GHz bandwidth modulation drivers and high speed Si-APD photodetectors. A measured worst-case system loss of 33.3 dB compares well with a theoretical system loss of 31.5 dB.
Two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel analysis of nuclear proteins from human tumor cell lines

Two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic analysis was carried out on HeLa, KB, ALL and GW-39 cell "Chromatin Fraction II" proteins. Of the many proteins found, most were visualized in earlier studies on rodent tumors and normal tissues. Of these the greater density of protein CP and the presence of protein CG' differentiates tumors from the nontumor tissues. In samples of normal and mitogen stimulated human lymphocytes, protein CG' was absent and protein CP was present in small amounts. Two-dimensional patterns of 0.4N H2SO4 soluble nuclear proteins showed elevated amounts of proteins C16-18 in the GS-39 cell patterns. Proteins Hu1, G1, G2, G3 and G5 were detected only in human cell nuclei. The increased density of staining for protein CP and the presence of CG' are potential biological markers for neoplastic cells.
K and Mn doped iron-based CO2 hydrogenation catalysts: Detection of KAlH4 as part of the catalyst's active phase

Abstract Hydrogenation of CO2 to hydrocarbons is investigated over iron-based catalysts supported on γ-alumina to produce unsaturated hydrocarbons as feedstock chemicals for jet-fuel synthesis. Over 40% conversion levels can be achieved by doping this catalyst with Mn and K, along with an olefin/paraffin ratio of over 4. The doping levels played a crucial role in the product distribution as well as CO2 conversion yields, with over doping leading to suppression of the desirable hydrocarbon products. The characterization of the catalyst showed the presence of KAlH4 as part of the catalyst's active phase, acting as a reversible H2 reservoir and as a center for H2 activation. Characterization of the catalysts by XRD, XPS, and SEM sheds light on the role each dopant had on the overall catalyst's activity and product distribution.
Study of epoxidized-cardanol containing cationic UV curable materials

Abstract Cationic photopolymerization, thermal and mechanical properties of thin film materials containing bio-renewable cashew nutshell oil derivative – epoxidized-cardanol (ECD) were investigated. Higher and more consistent monomer conversion as a function of relative humidity was found for thin film materials containing 10 wt.% ECD and 5 wt.% hydroxy-functional reactive diluents during cationic photopolymerization. In addition, ECD imparted balanced physiochemical properties to the cationic UV curable materials. ECD showed great potential to be used as a reactive ingredient in cationic UV curable materials.
Effect of Composition on the Superconducting Transition Temperature of Tantalum Carbide and Niobium Carbide

Tantalum carbide and niobium carbide samples with carbon-to-metal molar ratios varying from 0.754 to 0.987 for tantalum carbide and from 0.70 to 0.977 for niobium carbide were examined for superconductivity. Both niobium and tantalum carbides were found to be superconducting with transition temperatures which vary with composition. The major conclusion is that the highest temperature is reached for the stoichiometric composition and any deviation therefrom results in a lowering and eventual disappearance (less than 1.05\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K) of ${T}_{c}$.
Comparison of cadmium, nickel and benzo(a)pyrene uptake into cultured brown cells of the hard shell clam, Mercenaria mercenaria

Abstract Cadmium and nickel uptake into M. mercenaria brown cells increased curvilinearly with solute concentration, whereas benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] uptake is linear at concentrations studied. Uptake appeared to be a process of facilitated diffusion which is more efficient at lower Cd2+ and Ni2+ concentrations. Buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine, which blocks glutathione synthesis significantly inhibited Cd2+, Ni2+ and B(a)P uptake. It appears that sites other than Ca2+ channels and a sulfhydryl sensitive system are involved in Cd2+, Ni2+ and B(a)P uptake into Mercenaria brown cells.
Chiral resolution of d- and l-amino acids by tandem mass spectrometry of Ni(II)-bound trimeric complexes

Abstract Mass-selected trimeric cluster ions, [NiII(A)(ref∗)2−H]+, where A designates the analyte amino acid and ref∗ designates the chiral reference amino acid, undergo competitive collision-induced dissociation to yield two dimeric clusters with a branching ratio dictated by the stereochemistry of both the analyte and the reference. This branching ratio (R) is related, using the kinetic method, to an enthalpic term, ΔNiIIBDE, the difference between the formation enthalpies of the two dimeric clusters. Chiral resolution of d - and l -amino acids is directly related to the relative stabilities of the two diastereomeric clusters formed by the dissociation of the Ni(II)-bound trimeric clusters. The dimeric product ions differ in enthalpy by only a few kilojoules per mole, but chiral recognition is achieved for all 19 naturally occurring chiral amino acids, using appropriate reference amino acids. Because there is evidence that the dissociating trimeric clusters may exist in different isomeric forms, the proportion of analyte versus reference amino acids in the mixture was examined to study the effect of this ratio on the success of chiral recognition. The effect was found to be negligible. This suggests that there is an equilibrium between these isomeric clusters, which is governed by thermochemical properties rather than the relative concentrations of the constituent amino acids. A linear correlation was observed between ln(R) and enantiomeric compositions of the analyte as expected from the kinetic method treatment, and the direct measurement of optical purity to within 3% enantiomeric excess was demonstrated. With this new chiral recognition technique, qualitative and quantitative chiral analysis of amino acids is achieved.
Infusion of large particles of thiopental sodium during anesthesia induction

Abstract Study Objective: To determine the potential clinical significance of admixtures of thiopental sodium and acidic drugs, which are used, during induction of general anesthesia and can cause the formation of particles of thiopental. Design: Using an infusion setup similar to that used for a rapid-sequence induction of general anesthesia, injection of either pancuronium bromide or vecuronium bromide caused formation of particles of thiopental that were measured using a particle analyzer. The effects of delaying the injection of the muscle relaxant on particle formation and the effects of plasma on particle dissolution were studied. Measurements and Main Results: The thiopental particles had a diameter of 17 to 39 microns, with a concentration of 15,000 to 20,000 particles/ml. Particle formation was prevented when a 30-second delay preceded administration of pancuronium or vecuronium following injection of thiopental. No particle, formation was detected when succinylcholine was injected. Human plasma was far more effective than a crystalloid solution in dissolving thiopental particles. Conclusions: It is unlikely that clinically significant particles of thiopental will remain intact upon entering the bloodstream. However, mixing thiopental with pancuronium or vecuronium has the potential of disrupting intravenous access due to occlusion with particles.
Interferometric Angular Measurement

An interferometer designed to measure and/or generate angles with high precision and accuracy is described. Design criteria and equations are developed and the experimental performance of a prototype interferometer is discussed.
Observations on the Nesting Behaviour of Three Species of Ropalidia Guerin-Meneville (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

A nest of Ropalidia socialistica (Saussure) is described. It is of unique type, consisting of a large, naked, vertical comb in a tree crevice. Notes are presented on a large aggregation of R. revolutionalis (Saussure) in suburban Brisbane. The nest of this species consists of a naked, pendant comb of 2 rows of cells; most colonies add smaller “satellite” combs in the course of the season. A few nests of R. plebeiana Richards were intermingled with those of revolutionalis.
Apolipoprotein L1, a novel Bcl-2 homology domain 3-only lipid-binding protein, induces autophagic cell death.

The Bcl-2 family proteins are important regulators of type I programmed cell death apoptosis; however, their role in autophagic cell death (AuCD) or type II programmed cell death is still largely unknown. Here we report the cloning and characterization of a novel Bcl-2 homology domain 3 (BH3)-only protein, apolipoprotein L1 (apoL1), that, when overexpressed and accumulated intracellularly, induces AuCD in cells as characterized by the increasing formation of autophagic vacuoles and activating the translocation of LC3-II from the cytosol to the autophagic vacuoles. Wortmannin and 3-methyladenine, inhibitors of class III phosphatidylinostol 3-kinase and, subsequently, autophagy, blocked apoL1-induced AuCD. In addition, apoL1 failed to induce AuCD in autophagy-deficient ATG5-/- and ATG7-/- mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, suggesting that apoL1-induced cell death is indeed autophagy-dependent. Furthermore, a BH3 domain deletion construct of apoL1 failed to induce AuCD, demonstrating that apoL1 is a bona fide BH3-only pro-death protein. Moreover, we showed that apoL1 is inducible by p53 in p53-induced cell death and is a lipid-binding protein with high affinity for phosphatidic acid (PA) and cardiolipin (CL). Previously, it has been shown that PA directly interacted with mammalian target of rapamycin and positively regulated the ability of mammalian target of rapamycin to activate downstream effectors. In addition, CL has been shown to activate mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Sequestering of PA and CL with apoL1 may alter the homeostasis between survival and death leading to AuCD. To our knowledge, this is the first BH3-only protein with lipid binding activity that, when overproduced intracellularly, induces AuCD.
How late can you update gaze-contingent multiresolutional displays without detection?

This study investigated perceptual disruptions in gaze-contingent multiresolutional displays (GCMRDs) due to delays in updating the center of highest resolution after an eye movement. GCMRDs can be used to save processing resources and transmission bandwidth in many types of single-user display applications, such as virtual reality, video-telephony, simulators, and remote piloting. The current study found that image update delays as late as 60 ms after an eye movement did not significantly increase the detectability of image blur and/or motion transients due to the update. This is good news for designers of GCMRDs, since 60 ms is ample time to update many GCMRDs after an eye movement without disrupting perception. The study also found that longer eye movements led to greater blur and/or transient detection due to moving the eyes further into the low-resolution periphery, effectively reducing the image resolution at fixation prior to the update. In GCMRD applications where longer saccades are more likely (e.g., displays with relatively large distances between objects), this problem could be overcome by increasing the size of the region of highest resolution.
Long-term calorie restriction decreases metabolic cost of movement and prevents decrease of physical activity during aging in rhesus monkeys.

Abstract Background Short-term ( 10 year) effect of CR on these parameters are lacking. Objective The objective of this study was to examine metabolic and behavioral adaptations to long-term CR longitudinally in rhesus macaques. Design Eighteen (10 male, 8 female) control (C) and 24 (14 male, 10 female) age matched CR rhesus monkeys between 19.6 and 31.9 years old were examined after 13 and 18 years of moderate adult-onset CR. Energy expenditure (EE) was examined by doubly labeled water (DLW; TEE) and respiratory chamber (24 h EE). Physical activity was assessed both by metabolic equivalent (MET) in a respiratory chamber and by an accelerometer. Metabolic cost of movements during 24 h was also calculated. Age and fat-free mass were included as covariates. Results Adjusted total and 24 h EE were not different between C and CR. Sleeping metabolic rate was significantly lower, and physical activity level was higher in CR than in C independent from the CR-induced changes in body composition. The duration of physical activity above 1.6 METs was significantly higher in CR than in C, and CR had significantly higher accelerometer activity counts than C. Metabolic cost of movements during 24 h was significantly lower in CR than in C. The accelerometer activity counts were significantly decreased after seven years in C animals, but not in CR animals. Conclusions The results suggest that long-term CR decreases basal metabolic rate, but maintains higher physical activity with lower metabolic cost of movements compared with C.
On free convection melting of a solid immersed in a hot dissimilar fluid

Abstract The flowfield, heat transfer and the resulting melting rate of a solid body immersed in an otherwise quiescent, hot fluid are considered. The problem is an interesting example of free convection, differing from the usual free convection problems in that the dominant buoyancy force is due to the fluidmelt density difference rather than the familiar thermal expansion. An asymptotic solution is obtained in analytical form for the limiting case of negligible thermal buoyancy effect, negligible mixing between the melt and the ambient fluid, large ambient fluid Prandtl number and small Stephan number c p ΔT / λ c . The neglected parameters are shown to be small for common fluid combinations. The theory is also applicable to miscible fluids with large Lewis numbers. A qualitative and semi-quantitative comparison with experimental results is given.
Endocytosis Resumes during Late Mitosis and Is Required for Cytokinesis

Recent work has underscored the importance of membrane trafficking events during cytokinesis. For example, targeted membrane secretion occurs at the cleavage furrow in animal cells, and proteins that regulate endocytosis also influence the process of cytokinesis. Nonetheless, the prevailing dogma is that endosomal membrane trafficking ceases during mitosis and resumes after cell division is complete. In this study, we have characterized endocytic membrane trafficking events that occur during mammalian cell cytokinesis. We have found that, although endocytosis ceases during the early stages of mitosis, it resumes during late mitosis in a temporally and spatially regulated pattern as cells progress from anaphase to cytokinesis. Using fixed and live cell imaging, we have found that, during cleavage furrow ingression, vesicles are internalized from the polar region and subsequently trafficked to the midbody area during later stages of cytokinesis. In addition, we have demonstrated that cytokinesis is inhibited when clathrin-mediated endocytosis is blocked using a series of dominant negative mutants. In contrast to previous thought, we conclude that endocytosis resumes during the later stages of mitosis, before cytokinesis is completed. Furthermore, based on our findings, we propose that the proper regulation of endosomal membrane traffic is necessary for the successful completion of cytokinesis.
CONTINGENCY AND COMPLEXITY IN THE SOCIAL THEORY OF NIKLAS LUHMANN

Niklas Luhmann has provided a view of social theory from the perspective of contemporary systems theory which highlights a large number of social mechanisms that tend to be overlooked in the more traditional approaches. Using a complex hierarchical approach to social structure, I demonstrate the kinds of social change which Luhmann brings out in a way that avoids his own functionalist teleology while at the same time emphasizes his unique description of the role of contingency in the evolution of social systems. Finally, from Luhmann's approach toward social theory I suggest a theory of development and change in social structures which is unique to the level of complexity where social activities are found. This theory depicts the emergence and development of a self-reflexive contingent structure as a threshold condition which produces a set of properties not available to systems of lower complexity and which increases the variety available to the system through structural reformulation in the face of envi...
Hamiltonicity and circular distance two labellings

Abstract A k -circular distance two labelling (or k -c-labelling) of a graph G is a vertex-labelling such that the circular difference ( mod k ) of the labels is at least two for adjacent vertices, and at least one for vertices at distance two. Given G , denote σ(G) the minimum k for which there exists a k -c-labelling of G . Suppose G has n vertices, we prove σ(G)⩽n if G c is Hamiltonian; and σ(G)=n+p v (G c ) otherwise, where p v (G) is the path covering number of G . We give exact values of σ(G) for some families of graphs such that G c is Hamiltonian, and discuss injective k -c-labellings especially for joins and unions of graphs.
Desirable trends in mobile communication

Accommodation of the predicted rapid growth of mobile data traffic is creating serious challenges. In this paper, we separate the notion of mobile data service and the data transport needed for the service. We argue that it is desirable and feasible to mitigate the traffic volume needed for achieving satisfactory services. In addition, we argue that traffic volume is not a proper measure reflecting the "transportation effort" in mobile communication. Various means to reduce this "transportation effort" and measures to quantify it are discussed in this paper. We conclude that more effort should be devoted to mitigation of the traffic growth as well as efficient traffic organization in contrast to accommodating the traffic explosion by purely blowing up the communication capacity.
Enhanced behavioral stereotypies elicited by intrastriatal injection of D1 and D2 dopamine agonists in intact rats

Five components of behavior elicited by dopamine (DA) agonists (locomotor hyperactivity, sniffing, oral activity, grooming and paw nibbling) were evaluated after bilateral infusion of the selective D1 agonist fenoldopam (SKF 82526; 2.5–10 μg), the selective D2 agonist quinpirole (LY 171555; 5–40 μg) and the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine (5–10 μg) into the ventral striatum of awake, unrestrained rats. Simultaneous bilateral infusion of various dose combinations of fenoldopam (2.5–10 μm) and quinpirole (5–20 μg) elicited dramatic increases in stereotyped behaviors relative to the effects produced by corresponding doses of each drug alone. Stereotyped sniffing and paw nibbling (self-directed oral activity) were markedly enhanced, whereas conventional oral behaviors (licking, chewing and/or biting) were either slightly or not at all increased. These potentiated responses were reduced or blocked by concomitant infusion of either the selective D1 antagonist SCH 23390 (1 and 5 μg) or the selective D2 antagonist sulpiride (0.15 μg). Scopolamine (10 μg) only slightly increased the effects of quinpirole (5 mug) on both sniffing and oral behaviors, whereas it dramatically potentiated the effects of fenoldopam (2.5 mug) on oral activity; sniffing was only slightly increased. The effects of both drug combinations were almost completely antagonized by infusion of either SCH 23390 (1 μg) or sulpiride (0.1 μg). The results demonstrate that the synergistic effects of co-activation of D1 and D2 receptors observed after systematic administration are mediated at least in part by an interaction at the level of striatum. Differences and similarities between the behaviors expressed after various treatments are discussed.
Verification of Commercial Probe-Tip Calibrations

We present results of a verification procedure useful in evaluating the accuracy of probe-tip scattering parameter measurements. The procedure was applied to calibrations and measurements performed in industrial laboratories. Actual measurement discrepancies, due primarily to calibration errors, are directly com pared to bounds determined by the comparison method. The results demonstrate the utility of the verification technique as well as serious flaws, particularly at high frequencies, in some conventional calibrations.
Growth factors and population density in the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana

Abstract Isolated cockroach larvae grow more slowly than larvae in groups, but the resultant adults are larger than those from groups of larvae. When single larvae are grown with adults, they grow as rapidly as larvae in groups, and the resultant adults are as large as those from isolates. The following possible growth factors or conditions were examined: the effect of food, shelter, vision, asepsis, secretion from the tergites and cuticular exudates, the presence of a possible contact or air-borne pheromone, and physical contact as observed in ritualistic behaviour, which is here described for the first time; and certain other considerations. Neither air-borne nor contact growth pheromones could be demonstrated, nor could any significant effect by the exudates be shown. Food intake/unit weight of the isolated and grouped larvae did not differ significantly between the two categories. Physical contact with other larvae or with adults was the critical exteroceptive stimulus which promoted the rate of larval growth, but not the ultimate size. The greater size of adults derived from isolated larvae or from larvae reared with adults, as compared with those from grouped larvae, is attributed to ecdysone. Ecdysone, more concentrated in isolated than in grouped larvae, could also have a part in retarding the rate of growth of the isolated insect by reducing its locomotor activity and hence inducing a relatively lower metabolic rate.
Fragility Fracture Programs: Are They Effective and What Is the Surgeon’s Role?

Fragility fractures are occurring at an ever-increasing rate, creating an enormous economic and societal impact. Outpatient-based fragility fracture programs have been developed to identify at-risk patients, initiate effective treatment of metabolic bone disease, and improve coordination between members of the patient’s care team with the goal of reducing future fractures. Inpatient programs focus on effective, efficient management of patients presenting with acute fractures. Both have proven successful in reducing the impact of fragility fractures, but many challenges exist. The orthopedic surgeon, as part of an integrated team of providers, is integral in identifying at-risk patients, ensuring appropriate care of acute fractures, and initiating treatment protocols to reduce the risk of further injuries.
Myelin deficits produced by early postnatal exposure to inorganic lead or triethyltin are persistent.

Abstract: Long-Evans rat pups were exposed to either inorganic lead (400 mg Pb as lead acetate/kg body weight/day) or triethyltin sulfate (1.0 mg/kg body weight/day), by gastric intubation, from 2 days through 29 days of age. The rats were then weaned and placed on standard lab chow ad libitum. At 30 days of age, leadtreated rats exhibited statistically significant decreases in body and brain weights (22% and 17%, respectively), and the concentration of forebrain myelin was significantly reduced, by 21% relative to the 4.9 mg myelin protein/g brain in control rats. Although these animals recovered from the body weight deficits after several months, the deficits in brain weight and myelin concentration were still present at 120 days of age. This suggests that the lead-induced myelin deficits were permanent. Lead levels in brain, which were maximal at 30 days of age when the treatment was terminated, decreased more slowly than in other organs and were still 30% of maximal levels at 120 days of age. Triethyltin-treated animals also had significantly decreased body and brain weights (20% and 11%, respectively) at 30 days of age, and an even more severe reduction in forebrain myelin concentration (33%). These animals also regained a normal body weight by 120 days of age, but again the deficits in brain weight and myelin concentration persisted. Tin levels in brain and other organs had decreased to control levels by 60 days of age. Animals malnourished by maternal deprivation to match the body weights of the treated animals had myelin deficits that were less severe than those in the treated animals at 30 days of age (approximately 11% less than controls); however, these myelin deficits also persisted throughout the subsequent 90-day recovery period examined. The apparent lack of recovery from CNS myelin deficits produced by neonatal exposure to different heavy metals or to malnutrition reemphasizes the vulnerability of the developing nervous system to a wide range of metabolic insults.
The participation of corticosterone in luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH) action on luteinizing hormone (LH) release from anterior pituitary cells in vitro.

Abstract Corticosterone alone was not able to stimulate release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from anterior pituitary cells in vitro , but corticosterone in combination with luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) augmented the release of LH into the culture media. These results may indicate that corticosterone may have the capacity to activate membrane receptors for LHRH in the gonadotrophs.
Proton densities in the magnetosphere from pearl dispersion measurements

Abstract The dispersion characteristics of 75 pc 1 micropulsation pearls are described and analyzed. The results show that these emissions are generated on field lines with equatorial intercepts between four and nine earth radii. There is a diurnal variation in the location of the propagation paths which constitute a pearl oval with nighttime pearls propagating closer to the earth at higher frequencies than day-time pearls. This pearl oval expands to lower latitudes with an increase in the bulk velocity of the solar wind. The exospheric plasma densities derived from this research are in reasonable agreement with previous ULF and VLF results, but it appears that pearls are generated primarily on very steep density gradients that may coincide with the plasmapause already detected by VLF whistlers.