cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Low Lead Exposure on Eicosanoid Excretion in Rats

Twenty-four hour urinary 6-keto-PGF1-alpha and TXB2 excretions were measured in Sprague Dawley rats treated with 100 ppm lead acetate for 12 weeks, then repeated at 14 weeks when lead administration was discontinued. Control animals and lead-treated animals given 0.5% dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) for 2 weeks were compared. Blood leads at 12 weeks averaged 12.4 ± 1.8 μg/dL and at 14 weeks averaged 3.2 ± 0.2 μg/dL in the lead-treated animals compared to <1 μg/dL in the control and DMSA-treated animals. While raising blood pressure, lead administration did not affect either 6-keto-PGF1-alpha or TXB2 excretion at either 12 or 14 weeks. There was a significant decrease in 6-keto-PGF1-alpha excretion at 14 weeks in the DMSA-treated rats. This effect was probably related to the scavenging of reactive oxygen species by DMSA. Thus, chronic exposure to low levels of lead resulted in sustained hypertension without affecting urinary excretions of 6-keto-PGF1-alpha or TXB2. This observation suggests that occurrence of lead-induced hypertension under the given conditions in rat may not involve alterations of renal production of vasodilating or vasoconstrictive eicosanoids.
Electron spectra of heavy-fermion systems

Abstract An overview is presented of current understanding and recent approaches and issues in studies of the single-particle electron spectra of heavy-fermion materials, with emphasis on uranium compounds.
Germ cell chimerism in male marmosets.

Marmosets normally produce biovular twins which are connected, via placental vascular anastomoses, as early as pre-somite stages of development. These anastomoses allow the exchange of lymphoid and hematopoietic tissue, as demonstrated by karyotype analysis in heterosexual twins. Because germ cells are also motile during development, i.e., they migrate from the yolk sac endodermal epithelium to the germinal ridges, the possibility exists that germ cells could also be exchanged between heterosexual twins. Testicular squash preparations were examined from 22 adult male marmosets of several species. During the diakinesis stage of meiotic prophase the XY chromosome pair was distinct. Spermatocytes which lacked the conspicuous end-to-end association of the XY pair were considered to have originated from germ cells with an XX sex chromosome constitution. In approximately half the animals examined, all diakinesis figures contained an end-to-end XY pair. In the remaining animals, primary spermatocytes were seen that clearly did not contain an endto-end XY pair. The largest number of such XX primary spermatocytes in any one animal was 21% (9 of 43 cells examined). The effects of germ cell chimerism on the sex ratio of offspring was also investigated.
The diet of the olive colobus monkey,Procolobus verus, in Sierra Leone

Observations of the feeding behavior of wild olive colobus monkeys (Procolobus verus)were made in southern Sierra Leone, West Africa. Most data came from systematically sampling one habituated social group, which inhabited old secondary rain forest on Tiwai Island. Olive colobus at Tiwai were highly selective feeders, obtaining most of their food from a small number of uncommon middle-canopy trees, from the forest understory, and from climbers. Mature leaf blades were largely ignored; young foliage (particularly of climbers) was a year-round dietary staple, while seeds, flowers, and mature leaf petioles were seasonally important. It is argued that this diet results largely from selection for two different attributes of food: high digestibility and physical location. Preferred foods had low fiber and tannin contents, while preferred feeding sites were in thick low growth and climber tangles. P. verusis the smallest extant primate species using a foregut fermentation system. Observations of its diet accord with inferences drawn from dental anatomy, digestive physiology, and considerations of body size.
Glyceollin-elicited soy protein consumption induces distinct transcriptional effects as compared to standard soy protein.

Glyceollins are stress-induced compounds in soybeans with bioactive properties distinct from parent soy isoflavones. The goals of this study were to evaluate the effects of dietary glyceollin-enriched and standard soy protein isolates and identify candidate target pathways of glyceollins on transcriptional profiles within mammary gland tissue. Thirty female postmenopausal cynomolgus monkeys were randomized to diets containing one of three protein sources for 3 weeks: (1) control casein/lactalbumin (C/L), (2) standard soy protein containing 194 mg/day isoflavones (SOY), and (3) glyceollin-enriched soy protein containing 189 mg/day isoflavones + 134 mg/day glyceollins (GLY). All diets contained a physiologic dose of estradiol (E2) (1 mg/day). All doses are expressed in human equivalents scaled by caloric intake. Relative to the control C/L diet, the GLY diet resulted in greater numbers of differentially regulated genes, which showed minimal overlap with those of SOY. Effects of GLY related primarily to path...
Spectral representations of the Bernoulli map

Abstract We discuss spectral representations of the Perron-Frobenius operator, U , associated with a highly chaotic map. The continuous spectrum of U does not contain (except coincidentally) information about physically accessible quantities such as decay rates of correlation functions. We show constructively that decay rates can be incorporated into a generalized spectral decomposition of U if its domain is restricted to smooth functions.
Liver regeneration investigated in a non-human primate model (Macaca mulatta).

Abstract Background/Aims : An adequate model to study liver regeneration in humans is presently unavailable. We explored the feasibility of studying liver regeneration in a genetically similar species to man, the non-human primate Rhesus macaque. Methods : Five animals were studied; two underwent 60% hepatectomy, one underwent 30% hepatectomy, and cholecystectomy alone was performed on two animals. Laparoscopic-guided or open liver biopsies were performed on days 1, 2, 7, 14, 21, 30 and 60 following all surgeries. Liver regeneration was evaluated by measuring Ki-67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and mitotic index, calculating changes in the surface area of the liver remnant and assessing intrahepatic production of cytokines. Results : Significant liver regeneration was induced in the animals that underwent 60% hepatectomy, peaking between days 21–30 postoperatively. Regeneration was minimal in all other animals studied. Cytokine production followed a similar pattern. Maximal liver regeneration correlated with restoration of surface area in the liver remnant. Conclusions : Sixty percent hepatectomy in a non-human primate model induced significant liver regeneration, maximizing 21–30 days following partial hepatectomy, suggesting a significant interspecies difference when compared to a rodent hepatectomy model. A partial hepatectomy model in Rhesus macaques may allow further characterization of liver regeneration in a species closer to humans.
The Poetics of the Middle in Kleist's “Michael Kohlhaas”

Heinrich von Kleist's story, “Michael Kohlhaas,” has been often read as a demonstration of literature's ability to cross over and intervene in a sphere other than its own. Kleist's text is, however, replete with instances of thwarted crossing, impassable borders, and diversion into errancy. I argue that this tension points to Kleist's profound ambivalence toward the logic of mediation and his doubts about whether language can function as a medium for the transportation and direction of force. I read the text as an exploration of a poetics of the middle and explore (via a brief discussion of Walter Benjamin's “Zur Kritik der Gewalt”) the implications of such a reading for claims about the its performative efficacy.
Reproductive Traits Associated with Oxygen Consumption

Abstract Hen-day production and hatchability of fertile eggs were investigated in high and low oxygen lines previously described by MacLaury and Johnson (Poultry Sci. 51: 591–597, 1972). After significant separation of the lines in 1965 both measures were significantly higher in the high oxygen line. Intra-generation comparisons of egg weight and fertility failed to show any consistent significant trends. The study involved 11 generations of selection, 170,000 eggs laid, and 12,000 fertile eggs.
Dominance relationships and aggression of foals (Equus caballus)

Abstract A herd of 15 Belgian brood-mares and ten foals located at the Snyder Foundation Equine Research Center in Athens, Georgia was studied. Field data were collected using 30-min focal samples, such that 1 h of data was collected on each foal per week of its life. Social spacing was recorded at 2-min intervals. Social encounters during the focal sample were recorded on cassette tapes and later transcribed. The specific aspects of social structure studied were dominance-subordinance relationships, preferred associates, social spacing, aggression rates, the frequency of aggressions administered down the dominance hierarchy, and interactive play bouts. The rank order of the foals, both before and after weaning, was positively correlated with the rank order of their dams (Spearman's rho, P 0.99).
Genetic Algorithm Based Design of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine

Permanent magnet synchronous machines can be designed to obtain high efficiency and high torque density. Recently, there has been intense interest in the use of genetic algorithms (GAs) to design either part or all of the machine. In this work a highly structured approach to PMSM design which encompasses the machine and the machine control is considered. The number of parameters to be determined is over twice that of most previous work. The procedure set forth is explored for both single and multi-objective optimizations
Developing an expert system to diagnose computer program outputs

Reported by the author is an expert system which enhances the capability of a nonlinear optimization program. Included are discussions on the knowledge acquisition aspect and the advantageous use of neural networks to accomplish knowledge acquisition. The expert system diagnoses the output of the NPSOL optimization package and seeks to find errors in the user-supplied inputs. These errors result from poor modeling formulation of the problem and poor parameter settings when running the program. A prototype system is installed on a Unix machine. >
Access to assisted reproductive technology centers in the United States.

Objective To describe the disparity of assisted reproductive technology (ART) centers in the United States as they relate to residential locations of populations in their reproductive years and state-mandated coverage for infertility services. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Population in reproductive years (women 20–44 years; men 20–49 years) based on US Census 2000 data. Assisted reproductive technology centers registered with the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) in 2005. Main Outcome Measure(s) Populations within service area served by in-state and neighboring state ART centers as defined by a 60-minute travel time along road networks from each center. Result(s) Service areas for 387 of 390 ART centers were calculated. Fourteen states had some form of mandated coverage. Underserved states included Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, and West Virginia. The northeastern United States had the greatest percentage of overserved population with 66%–100% study population within 60 minutes of an ART center. Female age stratification showed the highest age group (35–44 years) per state in northern New England and the youngest in Utah and District of Columbia. Median total study population within 60 minutes of an ART center in their own state was higher in mandated versus nonmandated states. Conclusion(s) Disparity of access to care for infertility services exists from the standpoint of population service areas for ART centers and state-mandated coverage. Female age stratification may help anticipate future need for services with existing resource distribution.
Introduction to Neural Stem Cells

Neural stem cells self-renew and give rise to neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. These cells hold great promise for neural repair after injury or disease. However, a great deal of information needs to be gathered before optimally using neural stem cells for neural repair. This brief review provides an introduction to neural stem cells and briefly describes some advances in neural stem-cell biology and biotechnology.
Activity regulation of a Hox protein and a role for the homeodomain in inhibiting transcriptional activation

Hox proteins are transcription factors that assign positional identities along the body axis of animal embryos. Different Hox proteins have similar DNA‐binding functions in vitro and require cofactors to achieve their biological functions. Cofactors can function by enhancement of the DNA‐binding specificity of Hox proteins, as has been shown for Extradenticle (Exd). We present results supporting a novel mechanism for Hox cofactor function: regulation of transcriptional activation function. First, we provide evidence that the Hox protein Deformed (Dfd) can interact with simple DNA‐binding sites in Drosophila embryos in the absence of Exd, but this binding is not sufficient for transcriptional activation of reporter genes. Secondly, either Dfd or a Dfd‐VP16 hybrid mediate much stronger activation in embryos on a Dfd–Exd composite site than on a simple Dfd‐binding site, even though the two sites possess similar Dfd‐binding affinities. This suggests that Exd is required to release the transcriptional activation function of Dfd independently of Exd enhancement of Dfd‐binding affinity on the composite site. Thirdly, transfection assays confirmed that Dfd possesses an activation domain, which is suppressed in a manner dependent on the presence of the homeodomain. The regulation of Hox transcriptional activation functions may underlie the different functional specificities of proteins belonging to this developmental patterning family.
Large Neurological Component to Genetic Differences Underlying Biased Sperm Use in Drosophila

Sperm competition arises as a result of complex interactions among male and female factors. While the roles of some male factors are known, little is known of the molecules or mechanisms that underlie the female contribution to sperm competition. The genetic tools available for Drosophila allow us to identify, in an unbiased manner, candidate female genes that are critical for mediating sperm competition outcomes. We first screened for differences in female sperm storage and use patterns by characterizing the natural variation in sperm competition in a set of 39 lines from the sequenced Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel (DGRP) of wild-derived inbred lines. We found extensive female variation in sperm competition outcomes. To generate a list of candidate female genes for functional studies, we performed a genome-wide association mapping, utilizing the common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) segregating in the DGRP lines. Surprisingly, SNPs within ion channel genes and other genes with roles in the nervous system were among the top associated SNPs. Knockdown studies of three candidate genes (para, Rab2, and Rim) in sensory neurons innervating the female reproductive tract indicate that some of these candidate female genes may affect sperm competition by modulating the neural input of these sensory neurons to the female reproductive tract. More extensive functional studies are needed to elucidate the exact role of all these candidate female genes in sperm competition. Nevertheless, the female nervous system appears to have a previously unappreciated role in sperm competition. Our results indicate that the study of female control of sperm competition should not be limited to female reproductive tract-specific genes, but should focus also on diverse biological pathways.
Gross error detection when variance-covariance matrices are unknown

Equations introduced here identify measurement biases and process leaks, when gross errors exist in measured process variables and the variance-covariance matrix of the measurements, Σ, is unknown. Σ is estimated by the sample variance, S, using process data. For an unknown Σ, the global test statistic is the well-known Hotelling T2 statistic. Its power function has a noncentral F-distribution. For component tests used for specific identification of measurement biases and nodal leaks, two tests are presented with Σ unknown. The first test is independent of the number of component tests, k, and is given by a statistic with an F-distribution. The second test depends on k and has a student t-distribution. The power functions for both component tests are provided. Process examples and a Monte Carlo simulation study presented demonstrate the use and performance of these statistical equations in identifying biases and process leaks.
The dendritic tree of spinal neurons in dogs with experimental hind-limb rigidity.

The dendritic tree of lumbosacral neurons from dogs with experimental hind-limb rigidity, produced by temporary lumbosacral ischemia, was reduced to about one-third of the mean normal size, as previously established in Golgi-Kopsch preparations. The size reduction was due to the loss only of the more distal segments of the tree by the neurons which survived the ischemic episode, thus decreasing the mean radius of the dendritic projections. The mean number of primary dendrites/neuron remained essentially the same as in the normal but the portions extending beyond about 100 μ from cell body, and all their branches, suffered truncation: the branches originating closer to the cell body suffered the same truncation beyond the 100 μ border. The mean perikaryon size and size range in the sample of 300 neurons from three rigid dogs was not reduced from that of the 360 neuron sample from three normal animals. The loss of nearly two-thirds of dendrite surface, with consequent loss of all contacts with other neurons normally handled by this major fraction of the dendritic tree, compounded the denervation and isolation sustained by the cell body and surviving proximal part of the tree, due to the marked mortality of interneurons during the ischemic episode. The reduction of the mean of the calculated synaptic endings/neuron for the entire sample to less than one-fifth of normal and the narrowing of the range of synaptic populations/neuron to one-seventh of normal are some indications of the magnitude and consequences of this morphological alteration; an alteration concomitant with the demonstrated functional alterations in such neurons. The orderliness of the dendrite organization, as found in the sample of normal neurons, however, did not change to randomness in the altered, „spastic” ones. The peripheral portion of the dendritic arborization failed to survive the denervation and was promptly sloughed, it is postulated, because of its greater vulnerability to denervation, due to a greater dependency upon a continuous transneuronal supply of neurotrophic factors. This dependency may increase exponentially with increasing distance of dendrite segments from cell body. The concept of neuronal interdependence (Gelfan, '64) is extended to include viability of at least part of the dendritic tree.
True polar wander during the middle Paleozoic

True polar wander would be recognized paleomagnetically as identical apparent polar wander paths for all surface elements. The apparent polar wander paths for the Late Ordovician-Late Devonian interval for Laurentia, Baltica and Gondwana have nearly identical looping shapes that can be brought into superposition. The paths of these continents are well documented, but even the less well known paths of South China and Siberia reveal similar lengths. The resulting reconstruction places the northern Andean margin of South America opposite the Appalachian margin of Laurentia, with Baltica and Laurentia adjoined in the fit of Bullard and colleagues. Siberia and South China would be to the north of Africa, if their paleopoles are taken at face value. For middle Paleozoic time, there is of course no information about oceanic domains, butNit is interesting that all continental elements, insofar as is known, appear to have similar apparent polar wander tracks that can be plausibly superimposed without causing overlap in the positions of the continents. Albeit speculatively, because of the lack of information about the oceanic elements, it is suggested in this study that true polar wander may have occurred with a cumulative magnitude of about 75 ° during a 75 Ma interval, and may have been of greater magnitude than the apparent polar wander due to relative motions during the middle Paleozoic. This middle Paleozoic rate of true polar wander appears to have been an order of magnitude greater than the average rate during the late Mesozoic and Tertiary.
Origin of microtrack side bumps for a shared pole MR head on isotropic media

MFM observations on oriented and isotropic media are used to identify the source of side bumps seen for microtrack profiles written with a shared pole MR head. The effect is shown to arise from side writing and the orientation of the medium. MFM results for a pole-trimmed writer are also presented and the side-writing effect is shown to be diminished on isotropic media.
Tectonic evolution of the FAMOUS area of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, lat 35°50′ to 37°20′N

The FAMOUS area, which straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge on the southwest extension of the Azores Plateau in the Atlantic Ocean, has been studied by means of morphotectonic and magnetic anomaly analysis. Major morphologic elements are (1) the rift valleys and associated fault blocks, (2) the transform faults, and (3) diagonal linear trends intersecting the azimuths of the rift valleys and transform faults. Within the past 6 m.y. the area has been characterized by a reorientation of the spreading axis, from an oblique trend toward an orthogonal pattern relative to the transform faults. The long and nearly continuous early spreading axis, with a strike of N50 °E, broke up into smaller rift segments, which progressively rotated to their present strike (about N23 °E) and now appear to be recombining through asymmetric spreading to form the continuous axis it now has. The process involved complex migrations of the larger rift segments through asymmetric spreading, as well as jumping of shorter rift segments and migration of transform faults, the latter mechanism leading to the diagonal troughs. The presence of parallel spreading axes and the propagation of rift axes may be due to coupling across transform plate boundaries. These boundaries are complex shear zones with tension cracks and en echelon fault scarps deviating from the overall trend of the zone; this implies that the fracture zones might be leaky. The reorientation of the spreading axis in the FAMOUS area seems not to be a unique event but a phenomenon that has been repeated periodically. It has tentatively been correlated with recurrent plume activity below the Azores Plateau.
Joint Spectrum-Sensing Design and Power Control in Cognitive Radio Networks: A Stochastic Approach

Efficient design of spectrum-sensing and power control plays a key role in maximizing the throughput of a cognitive radio (CR) network while protecting the PUs from undue interference. In this paper, we consider the problem of joint spectrum-sensing-duration design and power control in a point-to-point CR link. The objective of the proposed solution is to maximize the CR achievable throughput while keeping the CR interference to the primary user (PU) at or below a preset interference threshold. The joint spectrum-sensing design and power control is a non-convex optimization problem, hence, obtaining the optimal solution may not be always feasible. In this paper, we formulate the joint sensing-duration design and power control problem as a two-stage stochastic program with recourse. Afterward, we derive the formulas for the achievable throughput as a function of the sensing duration. Moreover, we investigate the effect of different levels of knowledge of the interference channel state information (CSI) on the achievable throughput and the optimal sensing duration.
Modern diagnosis of Trichomonas vaginalis infection

Recent advances in tests for the sexually transmitted protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis have increased opportunities for diagnosis and treatment of this important sexually transmitted infection. This review summarises currently available tests, highlighting their performance characteristics, advantages and limitations. The recent development of molecular tests for the detection of T vaginalis, including rapid antigen detection and nucleic acid amplification tests, has significantly improved the quality of diagnostics for trichomoniasis, particularly in women. In light of the expanded menu of testing options now available, improved recognition and better control of trichomoniasis are in sight, which should enable the eventual reduction of adverse reproductive consequences associated with T vaginalis infection.
A Brief Intervention to Reduce Adolescent Sexual Risk Behaviors: Feasibility and Impact

This study looked at an emergency department based intervention to reduce sexual risk behaviors.
Methods of Assessing the Impact of Congenital Rubella Infection

Monitoring of congenital rubella infection (CRI) involves measuring the assessable outcomes of infection of the pregnant woman. These assessable outcomes are infection itself, therapeutic abortion, and birth of infants with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The incidence of infections can be estimated with use of data on age-specific occurrence of acquired rubella or acquisition of antibody in females and on fertility rates. The incidence of CRS can be estimated from data on infections of pregnant women and reports in the literature of incidence rates of CRS among infants born of infected mothers. Surveillance of CRS can involve individual case detection or serosurveys among populations with defects characteristic of CRS, such as deafness, and among comparison groups. To assess the impact of CRI, countries without rubella control programs should estimate the frequency of infections in pregnant women from existing surveillance data or determine by serosurveys the susceptibility and/or age-specific acquisition of rubella antibody in postpubertal females. Countries with rubella control programs should monitor cases of acquired rubella and/or prevalence of seropositivity in postpubertal females, therapeutic abortions, and CRS to assess effectiveness of the program and to determine high-risk populations that should be targets of intense vaccination programs.
Connexin43 increases the sensitivity of prostate cancer cells to TNFα-induced apoptosis

To examine the effects of increased expression of connexin43 (Cx43) upon cell viability and response to cytotoxic agents, we expressed Cx43 in LNCaP and PC3 prostate cancer cells by infection with a recombinant adenovirus (Ad-Cx43). Infection with Ad-Cx43 led to the formation of Cx43-containing gap junction plaques at appositional membranes and increased Lucifer Yellow transfer in LNCaP cells, but not in PC3 cells. The increased intercellular communication was blocked by co-infection with an adenovirus containing a dominant-negative Cx43 (Ad-Cx43DN). Infection of LNCaP (but not PC3) cells with Ad-Cx43 greatly increased their sensitivity to killing by tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), anti-Fas antibodies, and TRAIL as quantified using an MTS assay. The TNFα-induced cell death was dependent on cell density, and it was associated with increased annexin V staining, an increased proportion of sub-G1 cells, and activation of caspase 8. The TNFα-induced effects on Ad-Cx43-infected LNCaP cells were blocked by co-infection with Ad-Cx43DN or by pre-incubation with neutralizing antibodies directed against TNFα receptor 1. These results demonstrate that TNFα induces apoptosis in LNCaP cells by signaling through TNFα receptor 1 and that expression of functional Cx43 gap junction channels increases their sensitivity to TNFα.
Multiple-electrode radiofrequency ablation: simultaneous production of separate zones of coagulation in an in vivo porcine liver model.

PURPOSE A multiple-electrode radiofrequency (RF) system was developed based on switching between electrodes that allows for the simultaneous use of as many as three electrically independent electrodes. The purpose of this study was to determine if each multiple-electrode ablation zone is identical to an ablation zone created with conventional single-electrode mode. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine female domestic pigs (mean weight, 90 kg) were used for this study. A prototype monopolar multiple-electrode RF ablation system was created with use of an RF generator and an electronic switching algorithm. A maximum of three electrodes can be used simultaneously by switching between electrodes at each impedance spike (30 Ω greater than baseline levels). A total of 39 zones of ablation were created at open laparotomy in pig livers with use of a conventional single electrode ( n = 9), two single electrodes simultaneously ( n = 6 ablations; 12 ablation zones), or three single electrodes simultaneously ( n = 6 ablations; 18 ablation zones). RF electrodes were spaced in separate lobes of the liver when multiple zones of coagulation were created simultaneously. Animals were euthanized after RF ablation, livers were removed, and ablation zones were sectioned and measured. RESULTS Zones of coagulation created simultaneously with two or three electrodes were equivalent to ablation zones created with use of conventional single-electrode ablation. No significant differences were observed among control animals treated with a single electrode, those with two separate zones of ablation created simultaneously, and those with three simultaneously created ablation zones in terms of mean (±SD) minimum diameter (1.6 cm ± 0.6, 1.6 cm ± 0.5, and 1.7 cm ± 0.4, respectively), maximum diameter (2.0 cm ± 0.5, 2.3 cm ± 0.5, 2.2 cm ± 0.5, respectively), and volume (6.7 cm 3 ± 3.7, 7.4 cm 3 ± 3.8, and 7.8 cm 3 ± 3.9; P > .30, analysis of variance, pairwise t -test comparisons). CONCLUSIONS A rapid-switching multiple-electrode RF system was able to simultaneously create as many as three separate ablation zones of equivalent size compared with single-electrode controls. This system would allow physicians to simultaneously treat multiple tumors, substantially reducing procedure time and anesthesia risk.
Phase I-II Clinical Trial of Oxaliplatin, Fludarabine, Cytarabine, and Rituximab Therapy in Aggressive Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or Richter Syndrome

Abstract Background To improve outcomes of patients with Richter syndrome (RS) and relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), we modified the OFAR1 regimen (oxaliplatin and cytarabine doses of the oxaliplatin, fludarabine, cytarabine, and rituximab) for this phase I-II study (OFAR2). Patients and Methods OFAR2 consisted of oxaliplatin at 30 mg/m 2 on days 1 to 4, fludarabine at 30 mg/m 2 , cytarabine at 0.5 g/m 2 , rituximab at 375 mg/m 2 on day 3, and pegfilgrastim at 6 mg on day 6. Fludarabine and cytarabine were given on days 2 and 3 (cohort 1), days 2 to 4 (cohort 2), or days 2 to 5 (cohort 3) every 4 weeks. Phase II followed the "3 + 3" design of phase I. Results The 102 patients (CLL, 67; RS, 35) treated had heavily pretreated high-risk disease. Twelve patients were treated in phase I; cohort 2 was the phase II recommended dose. The most common toxicities were hematologic. Response rates (phase II) were 38.7% for RS (complete response [CR], 6.5%) and 50.8% for relapsed/refractory CLL (CR, 4.6%). The median survival durations were 6.6 (RS) and 20.6 (CLL) months. Among 9 patients who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) as post-remission therapy, none has died (median follow-up, 15.9 months). Conclusion OFAR2 had significant antileukemic activity in RS and relapsed/refractory CLL. Patients undergoing SCT as post-remission therapy had favorable outcomes.
An electromyographic study of the hip abductor muscles as subjects with a hip prosthesis walked with different methods of using a cane and carrying a load.

Background and Purpose. Certain methods of carrying handheld loads or using a cane can reduce the demands placed on the hip abductor (HA) muscles and the loads on the underlying prosthetic hip. In certain conditions, unusually large forces from the HA muscles may contribute to premature loosening of a prosthetic hip. The purpose of this study was to examine HA use by measuring the amplitude of the electromyographic (EMG) signal from the HA muscles as subjects carried a load and simultaneously used a cane. Subjects. Twenty-four active subjects (mean age=63.3 years, SD=10.7, range=40–86) with a unilateral prosthetic hip were tested. Methods. The HA muscle surface EMG activity was analyzed as subjects carried loads weighing 5%, 10%, or 15% of body weight held by either their contralateral or ipsilateral arm relative to their prosthetic hip. They simultaneously used a cane with their free hand. Results. The contralateral cane and ipsilateral load conditions produced HA muscle EMG activity that was approximately 40% less than the EMG activity produced while walking without carrying a load or using a cane. Conclusion and Discussion. People who are in danger of premature loosening of their prosthetic hip should, if possible, avoid carrying loads. If a load must be carried, however, then the contralateral cane and ipsilateral load condition appears to minimize the loads placed on the prosthetic hip due to HA muscle activity.
Information Framing and Retirement Management Decisions: Evidence from a Field Experiment in Mexico

I analyze whether information framing related to the performance of Pension Funds Administrators affects the retirement management decisions of Mexican workers. I conduct a survey to collect information on recommendations for Fund Administrator made by Mexican workers when faced with randomly framed scenarios. The scenarios feature framing based on choice avoidance and framing exploiting loss aversion. I find evidence that reducing the number of possible choices increases the probability that individuals choose a Fund Administrator with a higher net return or with lower fees. A "loss aversion" framing increases the probability that individuals choose a Fund Administrator with a higher net return. Finally, I find evidence that higher levels of financial literacy decrease the effects of framing on Fund Administrator choice.
Importance of partnering with health insurance carriers for quality improvement research

Quality improvement initiatives are integral to the practice of surgery. Collaborative quality improvement (CQI) initiatives engaging providers and payers with a common goal of improving patient care are powerful tools, which can facilitate data collection, implementation, and subsequent assessment of outcomes. Private payer programs engaging physician-driven initiatives have shown statistically significant improvements in patient care. Additionally, established by federal funding, public collaborative quality improvement organizations also serve to intimately pair the hospital, physician, and payer in an effort to advance and improve healthcare for all patients. Requisite to successful CQIs is the buy-in of the hospitals, providers, sufficient payer-led resources and infrastructure for collaborative meetings and data management, and project management to facilitate regular engagement of participating providers.
Monocyte chemotactic protein-1 deficiency reduces spontaneous metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma in mice fed a high-fat diet.

// Lin Yan 1 , Sneha Sundaram 1 1 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND 58202, U.S.A. Correspondence to: Lin Yan, e-mail: lin.yan@ars.usda.gov. Keywords: MCP-1, pro-inflammatory cytokine, metastasis, high-fat diet, mice Received: December 02, 2015 Accepted: February 28, 2016 Published: March 25, 2016 ABSTRACT Adipose-produced pro-inflammatory cytokines contribute to obesity and cancer. This 2x2 experiment was designed to investigate effects of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) deficiency on pulmonary metastasis of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) in MCP-1 deficient and wild-type mice fed a modified AIN93G diet containing 16% and 45% of energy from corn oil, respectively. The high-fat diet significantly increased the number and size (cross-sectional area and volume) of lung metastases compared to the AIN93G control diet. Deficiency in MCP-1 reduced lung metastases by 37% in high-fat diet-fed mice; it reduced metastatic cross-sectional area by 46% and volume by 69% compared to wild-type mice. Adipose and plasma concentrations of MCP-1 were significantly higher in high-fat diet-fed wild-type mice than in their AIN93G-fed counterparts; they were not detectable in MCP-1 deficient mice regardless of diet. Plasma concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, tumor necrosis factor-α, vascular endothelial growth factor and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were significantly higher in MCP-1 deficient mice compared to wild-type mice. We conclude that adipose-produced MCP-1 contributes to high-fat diet-enhanced metastasis. While MCP-1 deficiency reduces metastasis, the elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factors in the absence of MCP-1 may support the metastatic development and growth of LLC in MCP-1 deficient mice.
Poxvirus viability and signatures in historical relics

Although it has been >30 years since the eradication of smallpox, the unearthing of well-preserved tissue material in which the virus may reside has called into question the viability of variola virus decades or centuries after its original occurrence. Experimental data to address the longterm stability and viability of the virus are limited. There are several instances of well-preserved corpses and tissues that have been examined for poxvirus viability and viral DNA. These historical specimens cause concern for potential exposures, and each situation should be approached cautiously and independently with the available information. Nevertheless, these specimens provide information on the history of a major disease and vaccination against it.
SERUM VITAMIN E LEVELS IN A NORMAL ADULT POPULATION IN THE WASHINGTON, D. C., AREA.

SummarySerum tocopherol levels in 61 female and 71 male normal adult employees of the National Institutes of Health averaged 1.06 mg/100 ml. No samples were below 0.50 mg/100 ml, and 93.9% were above 0.70 mg/100 ml. A significant correlation was found between serum tocopherol and carote-noids for both males and females.
Study of the reactions π − p → π + π − n and π − p → K + K − n at 1.98 and 2.41 GeV/ c

We have studied the reactions ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}n$ and ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{+}{K}^{\ensuremath{-}}n$ at 1.98 and 2.41 GeV/c over a dimeson mass range from 0.75 to 1.23 ${\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$. Final-state neutrons were detected near ${0}^{\mathrm{\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}}$ corresponding to $|t\ensuremath{-}{t}_{min}|l0.003$ ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$ near a dimeson mass of 1.0 ${\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$. Charged particles were detected in the Argonne Effective Mass Spectrometer and/or scintillation detectors surrounding the hydrogen target. The mass of the dimeson was calculated from the beam and neutron four-vectors, the latter being determined by the measured flight time of the neutrons, with a mass resolution of $\ensuremath{\sigma}=4$ ${\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$. One of the prominent features of the ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ mass spectrum is a sharp break near 0.95 ${\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$. This feature and the rapid rise of the ${K}^{+}{K}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ spectrum near threshold are analyzed in terms of the parameters of the ${S}^{*}$ resonance. In the kinematic region covered by our data the contribution of the $\ensuremath{\rho}$ meson is small. The 62000 ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ events (11000 three-constraint and 51000 one-constraint) and th470 ${K}^{+}{K}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ events (all four-constraint) were analyzed with both a Breit-Wigner and a $K$-matrix formulation with various parameterizations of the background. Consistent values of the ${S}^{*}$ pole parameters were obtained in all of the various types of analyses for both beam momenta. An average of the parameters from these fits gives the position of the ${S}^{*}$ pole to be (969 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 5) - $i$ (15 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 4) ${\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$, compared to the present world average of (993.2 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 4.4) - $i$ (20.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 3.7) ${\mathrm{M}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c}}^{2}$.
Trauma, ischemic limbs and amputation.

A survey was made of 55 patients who underwent amputation of 58 extremities for gangrene. Trauma of some sort preceded 36 of these amputations. Sixty percent of the patients were diabetic. To avoid trauma and its effects, patients with ischemic limbs should not smoke and should care for their feet and avoid injuries of any sort.
Collaborative patient-provider communication and uptake of adolescent vaccines

Abstract Rationale Recommendations from healthcare providers are one of the most consistent correlates of adolescent vaccination, but few studies have investigated other elements of patient-provider communication and their relevance to uptake. Objective We examined competing hypotheses about the relationship of patient-driven versus provider-driven communication styles with vaccination. Methods We gathered information about vaccine uptake from healthcare provider-verified data in the 2010 National Immunization Survey-Teen for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) booster, meningococcal vaccine, and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine (initiation among females) for adolescents ages 13–17. We categorized communication style in parents' conversations with healthcare providers about vaccines, based on parents' reports (of whether a provider recommended a vaccine and, if so, if conversations were informed, shared, or efficient) ( N = 9021). Results Most parents reported either no provider recommendation (Tdap booster: 35%; meningococcal vaccine: 46%; and HPV vaccine: 31%) or reported a provider recommendation and shared patient-provider communication (43%, 38%, and 49%, respectively). Provider recommendations were associated with increased odds of vaccination (all p s p p Conclusion Efficient communication styles were used rarely (≤2% across vaccines) but were highly effective for encouraging meningococcal and HPV vaccination. Intervention studies are needed to confirm that efficient communication approaches increase HPV vaccination among adolescents.
Mineral Requirements for Brood-Rearing by Honeybees Fed a Synthetic Diet

SummaryHoneybees, Apis mellifera, fed a chemically defined diet containing 10 essential and 8 non-essential amino acids, and 10 water-soluble vitamins, were able to rear brood for 10 weeks. When this diet was improved by the addition of pollen ash, bees fed diets containing 1% ash reared more brood than bees fed only the synthetic diet or bees fed 0–5% or 2–8% pollen ash. Quantitative analysis by atomic absorption spectrophotometry revealed that pollen ash contained more potassium and less calcium and sodium than a commercial salt mixture.
Clinical Aspects of Infectious Heart Disease

Disease caused by virtually any of the known infectious agents may involve the heart muscle or the membranes that surround and line it. The specific lesions of pericarditis, endocarditis, and myocarditis represent only some of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of infectious heart disease.
Toward a Chronology Standard for Project CRER

To develop global-scale historical records of the Cretaceous requires reliable and refined systems of chronology and correlation. To produce the needed systems, Coordinating Committee 1 proposes a two-phase program. The short-term objective is to provide an initial chronological standard that will combine revisions of the existing chronologies with new data of all kinds: biostratigraphic, magnetostratigraphic, radiometric, and event stratigraphic. The longer-term objective is to construct a high-resolution chronology that is capable of dating to less than 100 Kyr. Cyclostratigraphy (de Boer and Fischer, this volume) and graphic correlation are promising new avenues to achieve the needed high-resolution. In addition, the use of lineage evolution can increase the resolution of biostratigraphy and sequence and event stratigraphy can also make significant contributions to a refined chronology.
Durable Responses to Rituximab In Acquired Factor VIII Deficiency.

Abstract Abstract 3680 Introduction: Acquired hemophilia is a life-threatening condition caused by inhibitory autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Successful management of this condition requires urgent treatment of bleeding episodes, usually with factor VIII bypassing agents, as well as long-term suppression of the autoantibody. The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab is used as a second line agent to suppress autoantibody production, but little is known about the long-term effectiveness or toxicity of rituximab. Our group was among the first to report responses to rituximab in patients with acquired hemophilia (Karwal et al. Blood 2001; 98:533a). We now report the long-term follow-up of 7 patients with acquired factor VIII deficiency treated with rituximab. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 8 consecutive patients diagnosed with an acquired factor VIII inhibitor who had received rituximab as either first- or second-line immunosuppressive therapy at the University of Iowa between 1996 and 2004. Criteria for the diagnosis of acquired hemophilia included: 1) a plasma factor VIII activity (FVIII:C) level Results: Median follow up duration was 4.9 years. Median age was 77 years and 70% were female. Pre-rituximab factor VIII inhibitor titer ranged from 4 to 770 BU. Four patients had received prior immunosuppressive therapy with prednisone, cyclosporin, azathioprine, vincristine, and/or cyclophosphamide. A complete response was achieved in 6 of 7 patients (86%) with a median time to response of 10 months. No relapses had occurred in the 6 responders after 1.8 to 6.4 years of follow-up. Late-onset neutropenia was observed in 2 patients, 76 to 110 days after initiation of therapy, which is similar in time of onset to neutropenia reported in lymphoma patients treated with rituximab. Three patients died of causes unrelated to bleeding or infection. Conclusions: This study represents the longest duration of follow-up to date of patients with acquired hemophilia after treatment with rituximab. The initial response rate to rituximab was high (86%) and all of the responding patients remained in CR after a median follow-up of nearly 5 years. Because spontaneous remissions may occur in patients with acquired hemophilia, it is not possible to attribute all of the observed responses to rituximab. Nevertheless, we conclude from these findings that durable responses often occur when patients with acquired hemophilia are treated with rituximab. Disclosures: Off Label Use: rituximab for acquired hemophilia. Karwal: Genentech: Consultancy. Lentz: Novo Nordisk: Consultancy.
The “Depositio Cornuti” at wittenberg University

(1945). The “Depositio Cornuti” at wittenberg University. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 20, No. 1, pp. 21-32.