Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Failure of Terminal Erythroid Differentiation in EKLF-Deficient Mice Is Associated with Cell Cycle Perturbation and Reduced Expression of E2F2

ABSTRACT Erythroid Krüppel-like factor (EKLF) is a Krüppel-like transcription factor identified as a transcriptional activator and chromatin modifier in erythroid cells. EKLF-deficient (Eklf−/−) mice die at day 14.5 of gestation from severe anemia. In this study, we demonstrate that early progenitor cells fail to undergo terminal erythroid differentiation in Eklf−/− embryos. To discover potential EKLF target genes responsible for the failure of erythropoiesis, transcriptional profiling was performed with RNA from wild-type and Eklf−/− early erythroid progenitor cells. These analyses identified significant perturbation of a network of genes involved in cell cycle regulation, with the critical regulator of the cell cycle, E2f2, at a hub. E2f2 mRNA and protein levels were markedly decreased in Eklf−/− early erythroid progenitor cells, which showed a delay in the G1-to-S-phase transition. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated EKLF occupancy at the proximal E2f2 promoter in vivo. Consistent with the role of EKLF as a chromatin modifier, EKLF binding sites in the E2f2 promoter were located in a region of EKLF-dependent DNase I sensitivity in early erythroid progenitor cells. We propose a model in which EKLF-dependent activation and modification of the E2f2 locus is required for cell cycle progression preceding terminal erythroid differentiation.
On the Implementation of an Algorithm for Large-Scale Equality Constrained Optimization

This paper describes a software implementation of Byrd and Omojokun's trust region algorithm for solving nonlinear equality constrained optimization problems. The code is designed for the efficient solution of large problems and provides the user with a variety of linear algebra techniques for solving the subproblems occurring in the algorithm. Second derivative information can be used, but when it is not available, limited memory quasi-Newton approximations are made. The performance of the code is studied using a set of difficult test problems from the CUTE collection.
Strength performance of the pectoralis major muscle after subpectoral breast augmentation surgery.

BACKGROUND Although subpectoral placement of breast implants is a commonly used technique in breast augmentation surgery, the ultimate effects of this procedure on the strength or function of the pectoralis major muscle (PMM) remain undetermined. OBJECTIVE In this study, we investigated whether subpectoral placement of mammary implants negatively affects the strength performance (SP) of the PMM. METHODS Twenty women underwent isokinetic testing with the Biodex 3 System (Biodex Medical Systems, Inc, Shirley, NY) before surgery and 2 and 6 weeks after subpectoral placement of breast implants. Nine patients returned for long-term testing. To isolate the PMM, we tested two motions: internal rotation and extension/adduction. The results were evaluated in two ways. We compared postoperative SP to baseline (preoperative) SP using paired Student t tests. P values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. SP was also evaluated with the Biodex 3 System Standards, which consider a postoperative SP of less than 75% of baseline significantly impaired and one more than 75% to be within normal limits. RESULTS Paired comparisons indicated statistically significant reductions in SP 2 weeks after surgery, followed by increases in SP by 6 weeks. When applying the Biodex 3 System Standards, we found that in both internal rotation and extension/adduction, nearly half of the patients had recovered to 75% of baseline SP 2 weeks after surgery and that more than three- quarters of the patients were fully recovered 6 weeks after surgery. Long-term follow-up in 9 patients revealed retention of SP or further improvement. CONCLUSIONS Subpectoral placement of mammary implants did not produce statistically significant long-term loss of upper-extremity SP. It appears that no permanent loss of strength of the PMM results from subpectoral placement of breast implants. (Aesthetic Surg J 2003;23:92-97.).
Use of bovine somatotropin at the time of surgery for left displacement of the abomasum in dairy cows. Minnesota Dairy Practitioners Study Group.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of a single dose of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) on certain metabolic values, health, and milk production of dairy cows undergoing surgery for left displacement of the abomasum. DESIGN Blinded clinical trial. ANIMALS 413 cows with left displacement of the abomasum. PROCEDURE A single 500-mg dose of bST was administered to dairy cows following surgery in field practice conditions for left displacement of the abomasum. A placebo of the same carrier without bST was administered to control cows in this blinded study. Metabolic and production responses in a short-term follow-up period were measured. RESULTS Blood glucose concentrations in cows 3 to 5 days after surgery were statistically higher for treated cows than for control cows. A higher proportion of treated cows had improved urine ketone test results than did controls. Significant differences in other metabolic values, health, and milk production were not detected. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Treatment of metabolically compromised cows with bST may have some positive effects, but further investigation is needed to confirm therapeutic value.
Mediators of the biphasic responses of bone to intermittent and continuously administered parathyroid hormone

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has biphasic effects on bone: continuous treatment is catabolic whereas intermittent treatment is anabolic. The mechanism(s) responsible for these differing effects are still unclear, partly because of the previous non‐availability of a model system in which effects on both formation and resorption indices could be studied concomitantly. In cultured marrow cells from 6‐week old C57BL/6 mice, we demonstrated that 4 days of intermittent PTH treatment increased mRNA for osteoblast differentiation markers (Runx2, alkaline phosphatase (AP), and type I procollagen (COL1A1) whereas continuous treatment resulted in production of large numbers of TRAP‐positive multinucleated osteoclasts. Although IGF‐I mRNA did not increase after intermittent treatment, it was consistently higher than after continuous treatment, and the addition of an anti‐IGF‐I neutralizing antibody prevented the increase in bone formation indices observed with intermittent treatment. By contrast, after continuous treatment, gene expression of RANK ligand (RANKL) was increased and that of osteoprotegerin (OPG) was decreased, resulting in a 25‐fold increase in the RANKL/OPG ratio. In this model system, the data suggest that intermittent PTH treatment enhances osteoblast differentiation through an IGF‐I dependent mechanism and continuous PTH treatment enhances osteoclastogenesis through reciprocal increases in RANKL and decreases in OPG. J. Cell. Biochem. 89: 180–190, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Second coiled‐coil domain of KCNQ channel controls current expression and subfamily specific heteromultimerization by salt bridge networks

KCNQ channels carry the slowly activating, voltage‐dependent M‐current in excitable cells such as neurons. Although the KCNQ2 homomultimer can form a functional voltage‐gated K+ channel, heteromultimerization with KCNQ3 produces a > 10‐fold increase in current amplitude. All KCNQ channels contain double coiled‐coil domains (TCC1 and TCC2, or A‐domain Head and Tail), of which TCC2 (A‐domain Tail) is thought to be important for subunit recognition, channel assembly and surface expression. The mechanism by which TCC2 recognizes and associates with its partner is not fully understood, however. Our aim in the present study was to elucidate the recognition mechanism by examining the phenotypes of TCC2‐deletion mutants, TCC2‐swapped chimeras and point mutants. Electrophysiological analysis using Xenopus oocytes under two‐electrode voltage clamp revealed that homotetrameric KCNQ3 TCC2 is a negative regulator of current expression in the absence of KCNQ2 TCC2. Recent structural analysis of KCNQ4 TCC2 revealed the presence of intercoil salt bridge networks. We therefore swapped the sign of the charged residues reportedly involved in the salt bridge formation and functionally confirmed that the intercoil salt bridge network is responsible for the subunit recognition between KCNQ2 and KCNQ3. Finally, we constructed TCC2‐swapped KCNQ2/KCNQ3 mutants with KCNQ1 TCC2 or GCN4‐pLI, a coiled‐coil domain from an unrelated protein, and found that TCC2 is substitutable and even GCN4‐pLI can work as a substitute for TCC2. Our present data provide some new insights into the role played by TCC2 during current expression, and also provide functional evidence of the importance of the intercoil salt bridge network for subunit recognition and coiled‐coil formation, as is suggested by recent crystallographic data.
360$^{\circ}$ Star Coupler for Detecting Subwavelength Features

We propose a novel 360deg star coupler. We show theoretically how this coupler can detect perfectly conducting cylinders with radii significantly smaller than a wavelength, in the far field. We experimentally demonstrate detection of a metal probe using the 360deg star coupler in a silica planar lightwave circuit. With improvements, this coupler may be able to perform subwavelength 2D imaging.
Competitive cross‐voltage level procurement of reactive power considering reliable capacity from wind and photovoltaics

Transition toward high shares of power production from wind and photovoltaics (PV) brings about a substantial increase in controllable reactive power (Q). The capability to provide Q independent of active power production (24/7) is available at comparably low or even zero investment cost. Yet, this capability is not required by network connection codes and only rarely utilized, even if available. In a first step, we take an overall economic perspective and review the economic competition of 24/7 Q provision from variable renewable power plants (VRPP) with alternative Q resources. Technical restrictions to be respected are discussed, as well as the reliability requirements related to investment‐planning relevant Q provision. Competitiveness is significantly influenced by Q utilization rate and connecting voltage level. For practical implementation of 24/7 Q procurement from VRPP, its value needs to be assessed. We review possible approaches from overall economic perspective. We conclude that in operational decisions, VRPP Q should be valued at marginal cost, whereas in Q investment planning decisions, full cost should be considered. We derive the pros and cons of making 24/7 Q provision a mandatory part of network connection codes. For system operators (SOs) to integrate available capacity, regulatory acknowledgment of related revenue impact should be considered. We present possible solutions. Summarizing, the contribution presents the status quo in research on cross‐voltage level, investment‐relevant Q provision by VRPP. Using the presented methodology for value assessment, areas for further research are systematically pointed out.
An Open-Source Multiscale Framework for the Simulation of Nanoscale Devices

We present a general simulation framework for assessing the performance of nanoscale devices that combines several powerful and widely used open-source codes, and based on minimal but chemically accurate tight-binding Hamiltonians obtained from density-functional theory calculations and using maximally localized Wannier functions to represent the electronic state. Transport properties are then computed within the nonequilibrium Green's function formalism. We illustrate the capabilities of this framework applying it to a transistor with generic gate geometries, i.e., a double-gate nanoscale field-effect transistor where the channel is formed by graphene nanoribbons terminated with hydrogen, fluorine, and OH groups.
Crop Yield and Plant Density under Different Tillage Systems

Summary To determine the optimal ploughing depth and to make tillage simpler and less costly, but also taking account of edaphic and climatic conditions as well as biological and agrotechnical requirements of crops grown, long-term investigations (1994-2009) have been carried out on Stagnic Luvisol of sloping terrains in central Croatia near Daruvar. Th e paper presents the results relating to plant density and yields of maize (Zea mays L.), soybean (Glycine max L.), oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.), winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Investigation results point to the conclusion that high density crops (winter wheat, spring barley and oilseed rape) are suitable for growing under reduced tillage systems. Yields of low density spring crops (maize and soybean) obtained under the no-tillage system are not satisfactory, especially in climatically extreme years.
The management of asthma in the phenotype and biomarker era: The proposal of a new diagnostic-therapeutic model

Abstract Treatment goals in asthma patients are the achievement of a good control of symptoms and the reduction of the risk of exacerbation. However, a “one-size-fits-all” therapeutic strategy is no longer appropriate to effectively pursue these goals, due to the heterogeneity of asthma. To make the treatment scenario even more complex, asthma patients often present comorbidities that may alter response to therapy. In addition, adherence to asthma treatment is poor. Given this complex and heterogeneous picture, the management of asthma is highly challenging. A clear diagnostic-therapeutic model of patients' care and the definition of the specific responsibilities of different healthcare providers appear necessary to improve clinical outcomes and better allocate healthcare resources. We present here a proposal for this model.
The antipyrine test in clinical pharmacology: Conceptions and misconceptions

Since its introduction 11 years ago,75, 77 the antipyrine test, devised to determine quantitatively the effect of individual environmental factors on hepatic drug‐metabolizing capacity in normal subjects, has been widely used by clinical pharmacologists, as indicated by the large number of applications listed in Table 1. Yet there have been several technical modifications, new extensions and unresolved problems, and an increasing number of apparently conflicting results. This warrants a fresh look at the antipyrine test and a critical reassessment of its applications and limitations.
[Role of different ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery in sigmoid colon or rectal cancer surgery: a meta-analysis].

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of different ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery in sigmoid colon or rectal cancer surgery on 5-year overall survival rate and operative mortality. METHODS The results of several literatures from different countries on high or low ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery and prognosis were analyzed using meta-analysis. RESULTS Seven studies were included. The 5-year overall survival rate was compared between low and high ligation. The odd ratio (OR) for 5-year survival was 0.87 (95% CI=0.76-0.98, P=0.02), and the OR for perioperative mortality was 1.28 (95% CI=0.94-1.75, P=0.19). CONCLUSIONS High ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery may improve 5-year overall survival rate. Perioperative mortality may not be influenced by the level of ligation.
The pharmacological effects of Salvia species on the central nervous system

Salvia is an important genus consisting of about 900 species in the family Lamiaceae. Some species of Salvia have been cultivated world wide for use in folk medicine and for culinary purposes. The dried root of Salvia miltiorrhiza, for example, has been used extensively for the treatment of coronary and cerebrovascular disease, sleep disorders, hepatitis, hepatocirrhosis, chronic renal failure, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, carbuncles and ulcers. S. officinalis, S. leriifolia, S. haematodes, S. triloba and S. divinorum are other species with important pharmacological effects. In this review, the pharmacological effects of Salvia species on the central nervous system will be reviewed. These include sedative and hypnotic, hallucinogenic, skeletal muscle relaxant, analgesic, memory enhancing, anticonvulsant, neuroprotective and antiparkinsonian activity, as well as the inhibition of ethanol and morphine withdrawal syndrome. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Telocytes: novel interstitial cells present in the testis parenchyma of the Chinese soft‐shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis

Telocytes (TCs) are novel interstitial cells that have been found in various organs, but the existence of TCs in the testes has not yet been reported. The present ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study revealed the existence of TCs and differentiate these cells from the peritubular cells (Pc) in contact with the surrounding structures in the testes. Firstly, our results confirmed the existence of two cell types surrounding seminiferous tubules; these were Pc (smooth muscle like characteristics) and TCs (as an outer layer around Pc). Telocytes and their long thin prolongations called telopodes (Tps) were detected as alternations of thin segments (podomers) and thick bead‐like portions (podoms), the latter of which accommodate the mitochondria and vesicles. The spindle and irregularly shaped cell bodies were observed with small amounts of cytoplasm around them. In contrast, the processes of Pc contained abundant actin filaments with focal densities, irregular spine‐like outgrowths and nuclei that exhibited irregularities similar to those of smooth muscle cells. The TCs connected with each other via homocellular and heterocellular junctions with Pc, Leydig cells and blood vessels. The Tps of the vascular TCs had bands and shed more vesicles than the other TCs. Immunohistochemistry (CD34) revealed strong positive expression within the TC cell bodies and Tps. Our data confirmed the existence and the contact of TCs with their surroundings in the testes of the Chinese soft‐shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis, which may offer new insights for understanding the function of the testes and preventing and treating testicular disorders.
Antimicrobial potential of the extracts of the twigs of Azadirachta indica (Neem): an in vitro study

Objective: Various medicinal plants have been used since ancient times in daily life to treat diseases all over the world. Almost every part of the Azadirachta indica A. Juss (syn. Melia azadirachta) tree commonly known as neem has been used for years to treat a number of human diseases. As neem is known to possess antimicrobial activity against a number of organisms, the present study was carried out to reveal the antibacterial effect on common oral cariogenic and periodontal pathogens and antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Methods: The twigs of Azadirachta indica were collected and different solvents were used for the preparation of the extract namely petroleum ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous solvent. The antibacterial potential was evaluated using the agar well diffusion assay. Sodium hypochlorite and dimethyl sulfoxide were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Results: Methanol extract of neem exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity at 500 mg/ml concentration, whereas the aqueous extract did not demonstrate any antibacterial and antifungal activities at any concentration tested. Conclusion: Evidence of antimicrobial activities of neem twig extract against cariogenic and periodontal pathogens indicates the presence of bioactive compounds which need to be isolated and identified for the incorporation in the modern oral health care system.
Hematologic impact of antibiotic administration on patients taking clozapine.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine if the drop in white blood cell/absolute neutrophil count for clozapine patients on antibiotics is a normal response to the resolution of infection or if the concurrent administration resulted in an abnormal drop in blood counts and further reduction of white blood cell/absolute neutrophil below baseline prior to infection. DESIGN This was a retrospective record review of all patients who received clozapine and antibiotics concurrently between June 30, 2010, and June 30, 2011. SETTING Subjects included inpatients on clozapine therapy at a state psychiatric facility. PARTICIPANTS This protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of record. A total of 42 patients prescribed 93 antibiotic regimens were found to meet all of the above requirements. MEASUREMENTS AND METHODS Medications were placed into distinct groups based on approved use and mechanism of action. Pearson Correlation Coefficients were utilized and were found to be 0.409 (p<0.01), indicating that a statistically significant relationship existed between the use of systemic antibiotics and alterations in hematologic parameters. RESULTS Each regimen was classified by specific agent as well as whether the final white blood cell/absolute neutrophil was above or below the baseline established for each patient. CONCLUSION Antibiotics have been identified as one category of medications that may cause decreased white blood cell/absolute neutrophil counts when combined with clozapine. Our study supports the use of either ciprofloxacin or moxifloxacin as agents that may have less risk of reductions in white blood cell/absolute neutrophil counts than are seen with penicillins, cephalosporins, and other antibiotics that may ultimately require interruption or discontinuation of clozapine therapy.
Correlation between Reliability and Weather Scenario: In Perspective of Bangladesh Power System

This paper presents the correlation between the reliability and the weather scenario of Bangladesh Power System (BPS). Reliability of the power system is one of the major features of power quality. The variation of electrical demand above its base value is its common characteristic. The weather dependent variation of demand, especially where the weather is severe in nature, requires a significant reserve margin to ensure an acceptable level of reliability of the generation system. In Bangladesh, a significant difference in demands of winter and summer is generated due to weather variation. As a result the utility has to ensure an additional seasonal generation reserve capacity to maintain an acceptable level of reliability. This paper determines the correlation between the weather variables, namely temperature and relative humidity, and the reliability of Bangladesh Electricity Network. It also investigates the additional generation requirement during summer season to maintain an acceptable reliability level.