cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical review 157: Pathophysiology of Graves' ophthalmopathy: the cycle of disease.

Hyperthyroidism in Graves’ disease is due to the binding of stimulatory autoantibodies to the TSH receptor (TSHr) on thyroid follicular cells. The stimulation of this G proteincoupled receptor by autoantibodies leads to excessive and uncontrolled production of thyroid hormone. Our understanding of Graves’ disease has increased remarkably after the cloning in 1989 of TSHr (1–3). This achievement led to insights regarding TSHr biology, including the unique two-subunit structure of this receptor that may render it especially prone to autoimmune attack (4). In contrast, the pathophysiology of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) and thyroid-associated pretibial dermopathy (PTD) is less well understood. However, studies by several groups have begun to unravel the many complex factors contributing to development of these ocular and dermal manifestations of Graves’ disease. The progression of GO and PTD from initiation to subclinical disease to fully developed ocular and dermal manifestations appears not to be a linear process. It seems rather to be a positive feedback cycle composed of mechanical, immunological, and cellular processes (Fig. 1). In this review each of the major components of this disease cycle will be examined with an eye toward understanding the limitations of current therapy and identifying targets for future therapy. Mechanical contributions to GO pathogenesis Many of the clinical symptoms and signs of GO can be explained on a mechanical basis by the increase in volume of intraorbital tissues characteristic of the disease (5). Although most individuals with GO have evidence of both extraocular muscle and orbital adipose tissue enlargement, some exhibit a predominance of either muscle or fat expansion (6). Individuals younger than 40 yr of age are considerably more likely to exhibit orbital fat expansion in the absence of muscle enlargement, whereas patients over 70 yr are more prone to severe, fusiform muscle enlargement without significant changes in orbital adipose tissue volume (7). Proptosis, the forward displacement of the globe, stems from this increase in orbital tissue volume within the unyielding confines of the bony orbit. Extraocular muscle dysfunction is caused, early in the disease, by swelling of the muscle bodies. Enlargement of the muscles at the apex of the orbit may lead to compressive optic neuropathy and visual loss. In later stages the extraocular muscles may become fibrotic and atrophic as a result of chronic inflammation and compression of the muscle fibers. Chemosis and periorbital edema appear to be caused primarily by decreased venous and lymphatic drainage from the orbit secondary to compression of these channels. Similarly, patients with severe PTD have compromise of low pressure lymphatics in the lower extremities (8), which probably contributes to the dependent edema seen in this condition. Histological examination of orbital adipose and extraoc
Molecular cloning, enzymatic characterization, developmental expression, and cellular localization of a mouse cytochrome P450 highly expressed in kidney.

A cDNA encoding a new cytochrome P450 was isolated from a mouse liver library. Sequence analysis reveals that this 1,886-base pair cDNA encodes a 501-amino acid polypeptide that is 69–74% identical to CYP2J subfamily P450s and is designated CYP2J5. Recombinant CYP2J5 was co-expressed with NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase in Sf9 cells using a baculovirus system. Microsomal fractions of CYP2J5/NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase-transfected cells metabolize arachidonic acid to 14,15-, 11,12-, and 8,9-epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and 11- and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (catalytic turnover, 4.5 nmol of product/nmol of cytochrome P450/min at 37 °C); thus CYP2J5 is enzymologically distinct. Northern analysis reveals that CYP2J5 transcripts are most abundant in mouse kidney and present at lower levels in liver. Immunoblotting using a polyclonal antibody against a CYP2J5-specific peptide detects a protein with the same electrophoretic mobility as recombinant CYP2J5 most abundantly in mouse kidney microsomes. CYP2J5 is regulated during development in a tissue-specific fashion. In the kidney, CYP2J5 is present before birth and reaches maximal levels at 2–4 weeks of age. In the liver, CYP2J5 is absent prenatally and during the early postnatal period, first appears at 1 week, and then remains relatively constant. Immunohistochemical staining of kidney sections with anti-human CYP2J2 IgG reveals that CYP2J protein(s) are present primarily in the proximal tubules and collecting ducts, sites where the epoxyeicosatrienoic acids are known to modulate fluid/electrolyte transport and mediate hormonal action.In situ hybridization confirms abundant CYP2J5 mRNA within tubules of the renal cortex and outer medulla. Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids are endogenous constituents of mouse kidney thus providing direct evidence for the in vivo metabolism of arachidonic acid by the mouse renal epoxygenase(s). Based on these data, we conclude that CYP2J5 is an enzymologically distinct, developmentally regulated, protein that is localized to specific nephron segments and contributes to the oxidation of endogenous renal arachidonic acid pools. In light of the well documented effects of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids in modulating renal tubular transport processes, we postulate that CYP2J5 products play important functional roles in the kidney.
Glass in a stretched state formed by negative-pressure vitrification: Trapping in and relaxing out

To explore the influence of the attractive side of the intermolecular potential on liquid structure and dynamics, we are studying liquids under negative pressure. To preserve and characterize the interesting stretched configurational states, we have vitrified the glass-forming liquid o-terphenyl under \ensuremath{\sim}80-bar negative pressure. The ambient pressure relaxation to normal volume at ${T}_{g}$ of the stretched glass shows pronounced differences from the relaxation of the corresponding compressed state, suggestive of an increased ``fragility'' of liquids under tension.
A new role for microRNAs, as ligands of Toll-like receptors.

Tumor microenvironment plays a central role in the development and dissemination of cancer cells. In addition to study each specific cellular component of the microenvironment, it has become clear that it is the type and amount of information that cells exchange that ultimately affects cancer phenotype. Recently, it has been discovered that intercellular communication occurs through the release of microvesicles and exosomes, whose cargo represents the information released by one cell to a recipient cell. A key component of this cargo is represented by microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs with gene regulatory functions. We discovered that miRNAs released by cancer cells within microvesicles can reach and bind to Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in surrounding immune cells, and activate them in a paracrine loop. As a result, immune cells produce cytokines that increase cell proliferation and metastatic potential. This discovery provides the rationale for the development of new drugs that might be used in the...
An FT-IR and XPS study of copper(II)–diazine polymers

Abstract Solid copper(II) complexes have been obtained following reaction of copper chloride with pyridazine (pdz) and pyrimidine (pym) ligands. Elemental analyses, diffuse reflectance Fourier-Transform and X-ray photoelectron spectral data recorded from these compounds are consistent with polymeric structures of the general formulae Cu(pdz)Cl2 and Cu(pym)Cl2. X-ray photoelectron data also indicates that the surface composition of each of these complexes closely resembles that of the bulk material.
Spectroscopy of Brown Dwarf Candidates in the ρ Ophiuchi Molecular Core

We present an analysis of low-resolution infrared spectra for 20 brown dwarf candidates in the core of the ρ Ophiuchi molecular cloud. Fifteen of the sources display absorption-line spectra characteristic of late-type stars. By comparing the depths of water vapor absorption bands in our candidate objects with a grid of M dwarf standards, we derive spectral types that are independent of reddening. Optical spectroscopy of one brown dwarf candidate confirms the spectral type derived from the water bands. Combining their spectral types with published near-infrared photometry, effective temperatures and bolometric stellar luminosities are derived, enabling us to place our sample on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. We compare the positions of the brown dwarf candidates in this diagram with two sets of theoretical models in order to estimate their masses and ages. Considering uncertainties in placing the candidates in the H-R diagram, six objects consistently lie in the brown dwarf regime and another five objects lie in the transition region between stellar and substellar objects. The ages inferred for the sample are consistent with those derived for higher mass association members. Three of the newly identified brown dwarfs display infrared excesses at λ = 2.2 μm, suggesting that young brown dwarfs can have active accretion disks. Comparing our mass estimates of the brown dwarf candidates with those derived from photometric data alone suggests that spectroscopy is an essential component of investigations of the mass functions of young clusters.
Synthesis and characterization of mono- and bis-(tetraalkylmalonamide)uranium(VI) complexes

Abstract The complex [UO2(NO3)2(TMMA)] (TMMA=N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylmalonamide) was structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The complex consists of two bidentate nitrate ions and one bidentate TMMA ligand coordinated to the UO2 2+ ion. The complex [UO2(THMA)2]2+ (THMA=N,N,N′,N′-tetrahexylmalonamide) was prepared as the BF4− salt; this material tended to form an oil. However, [UO2(TMMA)2](OTf)2 (OTf=triflate) was isolated as a crystalline solid. Comparison of the Fourier transform infrared spectra of these complexes to the spectra of complexes formed in liquid–liquid extraction systems supports the hypothesis that complexes of the type [UO2(NO3)2L] and [UO2L2](NO3)2 (L=diamide extractant) form in the extraction systems.
Relative importance of early-successional forests and shrubland habitats to mammals in the northeastern United States

The majority of the 60 native terrestrial mammal species that reside in the northeastern United States (US) utilize resources from several habitats on a seasonal basis. However, as many as 20 species demonstrate some preference for early-successional forests, shrublands, or old-field habitats. A few of these (e.g. lagomorphs) can be considered obligate users of these habitats, and the specialist carnivores (e.g. felids) that prey on them may consequently also prefer such habitats. Other mammal species that prefer these habitats certainly depend on them to lesser and varying degrees; thus, the consequences of reducing or eliminating early-successional forests, shrublands, or old-field habitats across the landscape will likely have varying demographic consequences, and thus importance, to those species.
Entropy, Limit Theorems, and Variational Principles for Disordered Lattice Systems

We study infinite volume limits and Gibbs states of disordered lattice systems with bounded and continuous potentials. Our main tools are a generalization of relative entropy for random reference measures and a large deviation theory for nonstationary independent processes. We find that many familiar results of invariant potentials, such as large deviation theorems, variational principles, and equivalence of ensembles, continue to hold for disordered models, with suitably modified statements.
The Artificial Control of Egg Production

Abstract IT IS a generally recognized fact that the normal distribution of egg production in the domestic fowl may be influenced by artificial means. It has been demonstrated many times that molting or change of plumage in fowls is closely related to reproductive activity and that environmental or other factors usually affect these two characters in such a way that when one is active the other is retarded or entirely inactive. Under the designation of “forced molting” a number of observations have been reported by poultrymen and others of attempts to influence the normal distribution of egg production in order to increase economic returns. It is almost a universal practice among commercial poultrymen to use artificial illumination on their laying birds through the fall and winter months. The term “forced molting,” however, has been used to indicate a procedure applied to yearling or older hens in order to control egg production . . .
Differences between contrast media in the inhibition of platelet activation by specific platelet agonists

Rationale and Objectives. The authors evaluated the ability of three x-ray contrast agents—a nonionic monomeric agent (iohexol), a nonionic dimeric agent (iodixanol), and an ionic dimeric agent (ioxaglate)—to either directly activate platelets or inhibit a platelet agonist from activating platelets. Methods. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to detect the effect of contrast media on platelet activation. In this method, the platelet is first exposed to a fluorescent probe, which is de-esterified and trapped to Fluo-3 within the platelet. In the presence of calcium, the fluorescence emission from Fluo-3 is increased 80-fold. Thus, the increase in the free platelet calcium associated with platelet activation can be used to indicate platelet activation. Results. None of the agents were shown to directly activate platelets. However, wide differences in the ability of contrast media to inhibit platelet activation by a specific agonist were observed. Activation of platelets by epinephrine or arachidonic acid was not affected by any of the three contrast media studied. All three agents partially inhibited collagen activation of platelets, with ioxaglate the more potent inhibitor. Ioxaglate was the only agent to inhibit thrombin activation of platelets. Inhibition of adenosine diphosphate platelet activation was more extensive with ioxaglate than with iodixanol; iohexol produced no inhibition at all. Conclusion. Direct activation of platelets by contrast media was not observed. Of greater importance is the finding that ionic contrast media, but not nonionic contrast media, inhibit thrombin activation of platelets by binding to the anion-binding exosite I, thus preventing thrombin from binding to and activating the platelet.
The relationship of DSM-IV personality disorders to nicotine dependence-results from a national survey

Abstract This study examined the prevalence of nicotine dependence (ND) and its associations with DSM-IV personality disorders (PDs) among current smokers (n = 7078), controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and comorbid Axis I and II disorders. Data were derived from a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population. Although all PDs were significantly associated with ND when sociodemographic factors were controlled, only schizotypal, borderline, narcissistic and obsessive–compulsive PDs were associated with ND after adding controls for Axis I and other Axis II disorders. These associations remained significant after controlling for degree of smoking exposure. The results suggest that both shared and PD-specific pathogenetic factors underlie these PD-ND associations. Implications are also discussed in terms of the relationship between personality features of schizotypal, borderline, narcissistic and obsessive–compulsive PDs and the self-medication hypothesis and the role of neurotransmission.
On the theory of the beam cyclotron instability in plasmas

Abstract Important new aspects of the linear theory of the beam cyclotron instability in a magnetized plasma are discussed.
Coronary stent and over-the-wire catheter exchange using standard length guidewires: Jet exchange (JEX) practice and theory.

The practice and theoretical principles of hydraulic exchange of over-the-wire (OTW) stent and PTCA catheters are described. Seventy-eight Palmaz-Schatz coronary stent delivery systems (PS-SDS), 8 Cook Flex-stents, and 247 assorted OTW catheters were delivered and extracted over standard length coronary guidewires using Jet Exchange (JEX). JEX was performed by pressurizing the wire lumen of coronary stent catheters to 18–20 atm and PTCA catheters to 15 atm. Extraction and insertion times were measured in the last 10 PS-SDS and PTCA procedures. Mechanical analysis of JEX was performed for PS-SDS and a representative OTW PTCA catheter by solving the Navier Stokes equation for annular flow with changing geometry. The force/mass relationship, extraction time, average velocity, net force on the guidewire, and drag force on the guidewire were determined for varying pressures, catheter masses, and extraction wire lumen fluids. JEX was successful in 75/78 (96%) of coronary stents and in 243/247 (98%) of the PTCA catheter exchanges. After catheter removal, reinsertion of another OTW catheter was successful in 324/325 (99%) attempts. The mean force on the guidewire at 15 and 20 atm ranged from 16,000 to 22,000 dynes. Extraction velocity was ≈250% greater when saline was used compared to the more viscous 50/50 contrast-saline solution. Timed JEX extractions for the PS-SDS and standard PTCA catheters were 8.9 ± 2.3 sec and 5.3 ± 1.4 sec and compared favorably to theoretical calculations of extraction times, 9.8 and 3.8 sec respectively. JEX is a simple, reliable, and cost effective means of rapidly exchanging OTW stent delivery and PTCA catheters without using exchange wires, extension, or wire trapping devices. Analysis of the principles of conservation of momentum provides a basis for understanding the physical laws that permit safe and expedient JEX in a clinically setting. Cathet. Cardiovasc. Diagn. 42:457–466, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mixed-Valent Heptairon Chloride Cluster Supported by the Porphyrin-Linked Dicarboxylate Ligand PDK

A new type of mixed-valent iron-chloride cluster, [FeIII2FeII5(α,α-PDK)2(μ4-Cl)(μ3-Cl)4(μ-Cl)2(Cl)(H2O2], was synthesized by reacting FeCl2 with H4(α,α-PDK), where H4(α,α-PDK) is a porphyrin-linked dicarboxlate ligand. The cluster has several unusual structural features, including four kinds of coordination modes for a halide ligand and a μ4-Cl with tetragonal pyramidal geometry. A mechanism is proposed to account for the reaction, which differs from those of H4(α,α-PDK) with FeBr2 and FeI2.
Laïcité in the United States or The Separation of Church and State in a Pluralist Society

American separation of church and state is much more exigent than French laicite, in that it prohibits the state from helping one or all religions in any manner; either in making religious representatives accredited and recognized political interlocutors in political and social dialogue, in putting edifices at their disposition for religious practice, or in financing religious schools-all things that French public authority does to benefit certain religions present in the territory of the Republic. As a result, religions, churches, or sects in the United States are all on equal footing with the others; none is privileged. The downside of the situation is that freedom of religion is in no way helped or assisted as is often the case in France and in Europe more generally.
Imaging the physical and morphological properties of a multi-zone young articular cartilage at microscopic resolution.

Purpose To characterize a number of physical and morphologic properties of young articular cartilage. These properties include the anisotropy of T2 relaxation, optical retardation, orientation of the collagen fibrils, total thickness of the tissue, number of histologic sub-zones in the tissue, width of individual sub-zones, and correlation between the depths of the local T2 maxima and the local retardation minima. Materials and Methods Microscopic magnetic resonance imaging (μMRI) and polarized light microscopy (PLM) were used to examine three side-by-side specimens from a humeral head of a three-month-old beagle that exhibited a unique topographic heterogeneity from three-zones centrally to multi-zone peripherally. Results The centrally located specimen showed that the collagen fibrils across the tissue depth have a pattern of the classic three histologic sub-zones (tangential, transitional, and radial). A much more complicated multi-zone structure was found in the specimen located peripherally, with a second transitional zone and a second tangential zone located at the deep part of the tissue. We also showed that the orientation of the collagen fibrils that form the cocoon-shaped territorial matrix surrounding the clusters of chondrocytes can be imaged by our PLM technique. Conclusion The results from the young animal in this report, together with our observations from older animals, demonstrate that MRI and PLM can be used to study the epiphyseal expansion of cartilage in young animals during its growth and subsequent loss in older animals. An illustrative model for the structure of collagen fibrils in a humeral head is suggested as an extension to the classic three-zone model for young articular cartilage. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2003;17:365–374. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Transition metal ion complexes of the S-methyldithiocarbazate prepared from 2-acetylpyridine N-oxide

Metal ion complexes of 2-acetylpyridineS-methyldithiocarbazate, HNNS, have been prepared and spectrally characterised. Preparations in EtOH yield complexes in which the deprotonated ligand, NNS, is complexedvia its pyridyl nitrogen, azomethine nitrogen, and thione sulphur. The stoichiometries are: [M(NNS)2]X (M=Fe3+, Co3+ and X=ClO4−, [FeCl4]−, BF4−, 1/2 [CoCl4]2− and 1/2 [CoBr4]2−), [M(NNS)X] (M=Ni2+, Cu2+ and X=Cl−, Br−), [Cu(NNS)H2O]BF4 and ‘Ni(HNNS)(NNS)F(EtOH)]BF4. The spectral (i.e., i.r., u.v.-vis.-n.i.r. and e.s.r.) and physical properties of these complexes are compared to those of theS-methyldithiocarbazates of 2-formylpyridine and 2-acetylpyridineN-oxide, as well as the related thiosemicarbazones prepared from 2-acetylpyridine. Thermal studies of the nickel(II) complexes indicate that the nature of thermal decomposition of coordinated NNS is different from that of HNNS.
Novel mechanisms by which fat cells regulate systemic insulin sensitivity and diabetes risk

The adipose cell functions as an endocrine organ in addition to its role in energy storage. Adipocytes secrete hormones, cytokines and other factors that influence energy balance, glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity and vascular biology through effects in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. In humans with obesity and type 2 diabetes, expression of the Glut4 glucose transporter is down-regulated selectively in adipocytes and this has systemic metabolic effects. Knocking out Glut4 selectively in adipocytes in mice causes insulin-resistant and increases the risk of diabetes while adipose-specific Glut4 overexpression confers enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in spite of increased adiposity. To discover novel pathways that regulate glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity, we used DNA microarray analysis of adipose tissue from mice with adipose-specific alterations in Glut4 expression. We found novel adipocyte-secreted proteins that alter systemic insulin sensitivity. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis showed coordinate regulation of lipogenic genes in adipose tissue. This led to the discovery that the glucose-responsive transcription factor, Carbohydrate responsive-element binding protein (ChREBP), is a dominant regulator of lipogenesis in adipose tissue and that its expression in adipose tissue is highly associated with insulin sensitivity in humans even in the presence of obesity. Furthermore, we identified a novel, potent ChREBP isoform and defined a new “feed forward” mode of regulation of ChREBP by which adipose-lipogenesis regulates systemic glucose homeostasis. This could provide new strategies for prevention and treatment of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Lectin domains in the toxin of Bordetella pertussis: selectin mimicry linked to microbial pathogenesis.

The pathogenesis of many infectious diseases is critically determined by prokaryotic lectins which enable differential recognition and activation of targeted eukaryotic cells. Some bacterial adhesins mimic and co-opt eukaryotic cell-cell adhesion motifs. This is illustrated by the toxin ofBordetella pertussis. Pertussis toxin mediates intoxication of eukaryotic cells by elevation of cAMP and it serves as an adhesin binding the bacteria to ciliated cells and respiratory macrophages. These activities are mediated by the lectin-like properties of the binding oligomer of the toxin. A comparison of pertussis toxin and the selectins involved in leukocyte trafficking indicates that these prokaryotic and eukaryotic C-type lectins share some element of primary sequence similarity, three dimensional structure, and biological activities. Such mimicry suggests a link between eukaryotic cell-cell adhesion motifs and microbial pathogenesis.
Abnormal regulation of inflammatory skin responses in male patients with chronic granulomatous disease

A common characteristic of the response to infection seen in patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an exaggerated and prolonged inflammatory response with frequent development of draining lymph nodes and granuloma formation. Recent reports of several CGD patients with minor but significant in vitro abnormalities of cellular and humoral components of neutrophil chemotactic responses would predict lessened responses to inflammatory stimuli. The following studies were, therefore, performed to assess in vivo inflammatory responses in patients with CGD. Twenty-four-hour Rebuck skin-window procedures were performed on eight patients (five male and three female) with CGD and on ten volunteers. The windows were changed 1, 3, 5,8, 12, and 24 h after the abrasion. Quantitation of the skin windows was performed with the assistance of a microscopeimage analyzer computer facility. Neutrophil accumulation into skin windows was normal in CGD patients throughout the first 5 h. However, during the 8-to 24-h period, when neutrophils characteristically disappear from normal inflammatory responses and are replaced by monocytes, there was abnormal persistence of PMN at the inflammatory foci in male but not in female CGD patients (P< 0.05 for the comparison of the rates of decline of PMN, from hour 8 to hour 24, in five male CGDs and in 10 normals). Monocyte recruitment was normal. In one CGD male, the abnormal skin-window response was normalized while he was receiving white cell transfusions. The data indicate that there is an abnormal “turn off” of the acute inflammatory response in male CGD patients and support a modulatory role for products of oxidative metabolism on the inflammatory response. In addition, they indicate that the mild in vitro defect in neutrophil chemotaxis is not associated with a depressed, acute inflammatory response in vivo and, therefore, does not explain the increased susceptibility of CGD patients to certain infections.
Scaling Behavior of In0.7Ga0.3As HEMTs for Logic

We have experimentally investigated the impact of lateral and vertical scaling of In0.7Ga0.3As HEMTs on their logic performance. Reducing the In0.52Al0.48As insulator thickness results in much better electrostatic integrity and improved short-channel effects down to a gate length of 60 nm. Our nearly enhancement-mode 60 nm HEMTs feature VT = -0.02 V, DIBL = 93 mV/V and S = 88 mV/V. For a given value of ION/I OFF = 103, we obtain CV/I = 0.85 ps at Vcc = 0.5 V. For the same leakage current, these devices exhibit 2.5 times more current drive than state-of-the-art low-power 65 nm CMOS
Simulations of space-clamp errors in estimating parameters of voltage-gated conductances localized at different electrotonic distances

Abstract The ability to correct parameters of voltage-gated conductances measured under poor spatial control by a point voltage clamp could rescue much flawed experimental data, but requires a detailed understanding of errors caused by poor space clamp. We evaluated errors in simulated voltage-clamp experiments on a soma with a single (0.5λ) cylindrical process having a patch of voltage-dependent Hodgkin–Huxley channels placed at various distances from the soma. Kinetic and steady-state parameters were obtained by fitting the current curves. Most parameter errors increased as the patch was located more distally on the neurite.
Colloid and interface science in the oil industry

Colloid and interface science has profoundly affected technology development in the oil industry in recent years. Major advances have occurred in the understanding of complex fluids (for example micellar and polymer solutions and microemulsions used during enhanced oil recovery), in the development of colloidal dispersions used for fuels and lubrication oil, in emulsification/demulsification technology, and in the understanding of interfacial processes that are present during environmental remediation. It is clear that this scientific discipline has enormously benefited from stimulation by industrial needs.
Transverse Section Imaging with the MGH Positron Camera

Transverse section emission imaging provides a method to quantitatively measure physiological parameters on a three dimensional basis in the body. PCII, the MGH Positron Camera, is widely used for such studies. New instruments promise higher sensitivity and resolution. The ultimate instrument would use as many of the annihilation events occurring with the body as possible.
The role of host abundance in regulating populations of freshwater mussels with parasitic larvae.

Host–parasite theory makes predictions about the influence of host abundance, competition for hosts, and parasite transmission on parasite population size, but many of these predictions are not well tested empirically. We experimentally examined these factors in ponds using two species of freshwater mussels with parasitic larvae that infect host fishes via different infection strategies. For both species, recruitment and larval survival were positively related to host abundance, but there was no apparent minimum host threshold and positive population growth occurred when an average of one fish per mussel was present. Recruitment increased rapidly with an initial increase in host abundance but appeared to approach an asymptote at moderate host abundance. Recruitment and larval survival did not differ according to whether mussel species occurred alone or in combination, providing no evidence for competition for hosts via acquired immunity. However, larval survival of the species that attracts hosts with a lure was higher than the species that infects hosts passively, but lower survival of the latter strategy was offset by higher fecundity, which resulted in comparable recruitment between the two species. The lack of evidence for competition for hosts or host saturation suggests that mussel recruitment is limited primarily by fecundity and larval transmission efficiency. Despite the lack of a minimum host abundance threshold, high variation in recruitment in all treatments suggests that population growth at low host abundance is limited by stochasticity. These results show that host–parasite interactions in natural situations may differ substantially from predictions based on models or laboratory findings.
Protein tyrosine phosphatases in disease processes

Given the importance of tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins in signalling pathways, it is perhaps not surprising that protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are involved in the pathogenesis of certain human diseases. A PTP produced by the Yersinia bacteria (which can cause bubonic plague, septicemia and enteric diseases) is thought to be used as a 'weapon' against host cell functions. In addition, dysfunction of cells' endogenous PTPs may contribute to defective immune function, to cancer and to diabetes.
Relative deprivation and child health in the USA

Some recent papers have suggested that relative deprivation could be negatively related to health through psychosocial stress and related behaviors. While there is a large literature on the association between absolute deprivation, i.e., income, and child health, little is known about the association between relative deprivation and child health. This paper asks: controlling for a measure of absolute deprivation, is a mother's relative deprivation related to infant health and maternal health behavior? There are many limitations regarding our measures and methods, and we interpret our results only as associations. Using US 2001 Natality Detail data, we find that pregnant women of lower socioeconomic status relative to other expectant mothers in their Metropolitan Statistical Area give birth to very slightly lighter babies and are more likely to smoke. A back-of-the envelope calculation shows the magnitude of the association we observe between relative deprivation and birthweight is close to what medical studies would predict if the probability of prenatal tobacco use were to increase by the amount we estimate.
Fracture toughness predictions in polycarbonate

The concepts of fracture mechanics have been used to analyze the fracture toughness of polycarbonate in terms of the polymer relaxation properties. By considering the temperature rise at the tip of a growing crack; a model is proposed which describes the viscoelastic energy loss in the fracture process. The model was used to predict the fracture toughness of polycarbonate as a function of test temperature.
ANTIBODY RESPONSE TO A GLOMERULONEPHRITIS RELATED STREPTOCOCCAL ANTIGEN

An antigenic protein can be isolated from the water soluble supernatant of disrupted group A streptococci. This antigen (Endostreptosin: ESS) can be detected in the glomeruli of patients with acute glomerulonephritis in the early days of the disease. ESS is not related to known streptococcal exozymes and is not excreted by intact streptococci. Antibody levels to this antigen were studied in 400 individuals of various ages using a microcomplement fixation test. Infants had usually negative titers. 41% of normal children were found to have moderately elevated (above 1:16) ESS antibody although 14% still had no ESS antibody. 90% of normal adults have low (less than 1:16) titers; only 3% have no detectable ESS antibody titer. Symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with acute glomerulonephritis have very high titers (up to 1:258). Patients with recent group A streptococcal infections without signs of nephritis also had consistently elevated titers, but titers were usually not as high as titers found in patients with acute glomerulonephritis. 61% of patients with lipoid nephrosis (minimal change disease) have no ESS antibody independent of activity of disease, steroid therapy, absence of proteinuria and years of remission. ASLO and streptozyme titers do not parallel ESS antibody levels. Penicillin therapy does not influence the emergence of titer elevation.
Marital Dissolution and Psychological Well-Being: Race and Gender Differences in the Moderating Role of Marital Relationship Quality

This study examined whether the impact of divorce on psychological well-being varies depending on marital quality in the first year of marriage. Participants included Black and White American couples who completed interviews in year 1 of their marriages and again 16 years later after 46% had divorced (N = 517). Linear regression models were estimated separately for Black and White men and Black and White women. Results revealed that that the link between divorce status, marital quality (positive or negative) and psychological well being depended on whether one was a) male or female, and b) Black or White American.
Examining differences in perceptions of students' communication with professors: A comparison of students with and without disabilities

Persons with disabilities are often treated differently from persons without disabilities. This differential treatment is often based in the stigma associated with disabilities. The present study investigated communication between students with and without disabilities and their instructors. Participants reported how understood they felt, how similar to their instructor they felt, and evaluated their instructors' communication competence. Additionally, participants reported their willingness to communicate with professors and evaluated the appropriateness of 28 accommodations students with disabilities may request from instructors. Results indicated that students with disabilities perceived their interactions with their instructors somewhat differently than students without disabilities.
Extrinsic spatial variability of selected macronutrients in a sandy soil

Abstract In addition to native or intrinsic variability, the spatial variability of a soil property at a managed site includes an extrinsic component which is due to management practices. The objective of this study was to estimate changes in the extrinsic spatial variability of Ca, Mg, K, and P in the surface soil which resulted from tillage and fertilizer application. Such changes may increase or decrease total variability. The upper 15 cm of soil from a small experimental field (0.31 ha) on Millhopper fine sand (loamy, siliceous, hyperthermic, Grossarenic Paleudult) was sampled with a large bore soil probe. Soil samples were taken before and after plowing and application of mixed fertilizers. Average contents of these elements for subareas of the field were estimated using block kriging techniques. Comparisons of block-kriged estimates for Ca, Mg, K, and P before and after tillage and fertilizer application were used to assess the extrinsic spatial variability of these elements. Results of this study indicated that both tillage and fertilizer application altered the spatial distribution of these macronutrients. Attempted uniform site preparation for planting resulted, therefore, in nonuniform changes in extractable Ca, Mg, K, and P. Those elements which were applied at high rates exhibited large increases in variability and marked changes in distribution patterns. Knowledge of the pre-plant spatial variability and distribution of nutrient elements may aid in the planning and execution of field experiments or serve as a basis for soil specific crop management practices.
Persistence of one-trial cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization in young rats: regional differences in Fos immunoreactivity

Rationale Unlike adult rats, young rats exhibit context-dependent and context-independent behavioral sensitization when assessed after a single pretreatment injection of cocaine.
Autoimmunity in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Dry eye is a chronic corneal disease that impacts the quality of life of many older adults. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), a form of aqueous-deficient dry eye, is frequently associated with Sjogren’s syndrome and mechanisms of autoimmunity. For KCS and other forms of dry eye, current treatments are limited, with many medications providing only symptomatic relief rather than targeting the pathophysiology of disease. Here, we review proposed mechanisms in the pathogenesis of autoimmune-based KCS: genetic susceptibility and disruptions in antigen recognition, immune response, and immune regulation. By understanding the mechanisms of immune dysfunction through basic science and translational research, potential drug targets can be identified. Finally, we discuss current dry eye therapies as well as promising new treatment options and drug therapy targets.
Antimuscarinic therapy in men with lower urinary tract symptoms: what is the evidence?

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men have, until recently, been assumed to arise from bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Given this presumption, all manifestations (obstructive and irritative) of LUTS have been presumed to be responsive to therapy for prostatic disorders such as α-blockade (with or without the relatively recent addition of 5α-reductase inhibitors) or surgical intervention for benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, evidence demonstrates that persistence of irritative urinary symptoms is often encountered in men despite presumed adequate management of their obstructive complaints. Although antimuscarinic drugs have been found to be effective for irritative urinary symptoms attributed to the overactive bladder syndrome, concern regarding the use of this class of drugs in men with even potential coexistent BOO has limited the use of these drugs. Data are now accumulating that suggest that the antimuscarinic class may be used in men with bothersome, irritative symptoms, despite the presence of BOO (as defined by symptoms and urodynamics) and with a reasonable expectation of efficacy and little added risk. Critical evaluation of this evidence suggests that a role may exist for the antimuscarinic class in management of LUTS in men. However, areas of incomplete knowledge, including the risk associated with long-term (greater than 3 months) use of these drugs and the value of the antimuscarinic class as monotherapy in men with LUTS, still remain to be investigated.
Clinical, histopathologic, and genetic features of pediatric primary myelofibrosis—An entity different from adults†

Primary myelofibrosis is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by cytopenias, leukoerythroblastosis, extramedullary hematopoiesis, hepatosplenomegaly and bone marrow fibrosis. Primary myelofibrosis is a rare disorder in adults; children are even less commonly affected by this entity, with the largest pediatric case series reporting on three patients. Most literature suggests spontaneous resolution of myelofibrosis without long term complications in the majority of affected children. We describe the clinical, pathologic, and molecular characteristics and outcomes of nineteen children with primary myelofibrosis treated in our center from 1984 to 2011. Most patients had cytopenia significant enough to require supportive therapy. No child developed malignant transformation and only five of the 19 children (26%) had spontaneous resolution of disease. Sequence analyses for JAK2V617F and MPLW515L mutations were performed on bone marrow samples from 17 and six patients, respectively, and the results were negative. In conclusion, analysis of this large series of pediatric patients with primary myelofibrosis demonstrates distinct clinical, hematologic, bone marrow, and molecular features from adult patients.
Third Workshop on Hot Topics in System Dependability HotDep'07

The goals of HotDep are to bring forth cuttingedge research ideas spanning the domains of fault tolerance/ reliability and systems, and to build linkages between the two communities (e.g., between people who attend traditional "dependability" conferences such as DSN and ISSRE, and those who attend "systems" conferences such as OSDI, SOSP, and EuroSys).
Activity level and secondary motivation: Fear

Four groups of eight rats received either no shock or 35-, 45-, or 55-V shocks in a runway equipped to allow measurement of activity immediately before a trial began. Suppression of activity (i.e., freezing) was significant for each shock group and was significantly and monotonically related to shock intensity.
Effects of phosphate stress on the rate of phosphate uptake during resupply to deficient tomato plants

Plants of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. P. I. 120262 show an increased phosphate uptake rate per unit dry weight of root after as little as one day of growth in solutions lacking phosphate. The reversibility of this response in plants experiencing various degrees of phosphate stress was investigated by measuring the depletion of phosphate from solutions over 3-h intervals. Measurements were made at three times in the first 30 h after phosphate was resupplied. Reversibility decreased as the level of phosphate stress increased. The phosphate uptake rate was returned to the level of controls after 30 h of phosphate resupply in plants grown without phosphate for one or three days. Plants grown without phosphate for five or seven days had uptake rates 26 and 40% higher than controls, respectively, after the same period of phosphate resupply. Internal phosphate concentrations after 30 h of phosphate resupply were equal to or greater than the controls in all plants. These results are consistent with a simple reversible feedback of phosphate status on phosphate transport in slightly stressed plants, but such a mechanism seems inadequate to explain the responses observed in more severely stressed plants.
Chromatin looping and the probability of transcription

Recent studies of several multigene clusters have shown that gene activation by a remote enhancer is associated with chromatin loop formation. It is not fully understood how a chromatin loop forms in a nucleus or how it is involved in gene regulation. In this article, we propose that the major feature that determines loop formation is the flexibility of chromatin, and that this flexibility is modulated by histone acetylation (and other modifications). Thus, histone modifications will modulate distribution of the preferential looping site in chromatin, which, in turn, determines the probability of interaction between a remote enhancer and the cognate genes. This model can explain gene expression changes in the Hoxd gene cluster and the β–globin locus.
Erratum to “Eating dogfood: Examining the relative roles of reason and emotion” [J. Econ. Behav. Org. 92 (2013) 202–213]

here s denotes the state, and ps the subjective probability of state s (s = 1. . ..n), and: aiks is level of attribute i for choice k n state s; a0 i is the status quo or reference point for attribute i; Us is the deliberative utility in state s; Ms is the emotional tility or gut feelings in state s; is the relative weight on deliberative utility; and (1 − ) is the weight on emotional utility r gut feelings. The publisher would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Are the Effects of Student–Faculty Interaction Dependent on Academic Major? An Examination Using Multilevel Modeling

Using multilevel models, this study examined whether and why the strength of association between student–faculty interaction and student cognitive skills development varies across academic majors. The study utilized data from the 2008 University of California Undergraduate Experience Survey (UCUES) and a sample of 43,014 students from 119 academic majors across nine campuses. The results indicate that the impact of interaction with faculty on students’ cognitive skills development significantly varies by academic major. Findings also suggest that some aspects of departmental climate can potentially magnify the effects produced by student–faculty interaction.
RNA EDITING OF THE COL MRNA THROUGHOUT THE LIFE CYCLE OF PHYSARUM POLYCEPHALUM

Editing of RNA via the insertion, deletion or substitution of genetic information affects gene expression in a variety of systems. Previous characterization of the Physarum polycephalum cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (col) mRNA revealed that both nucleotide insertions and base substitutions occur during the maturation of this mitochondrial message. Both types of editing are known to be developmentally regulated in other systems, including mammals and trypanosomatids. Here we show that the col mRNA present in Physarum mitochondria is edited via specific nucleotide insertions and C to U conversions at every stage of the life cycle. Primer extension sequencing of the RNA indicates that this editing is both accurate and efficient. Using a sensitive RT-PCR assay to monitor the extent of editing at individual sites of C insertion, we estimate that greater than 98% of the steady-state amount of col mRNA is edited throughout the Physarum developmental cycle.