cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Physical Principles: Energy – The Prime Observable

The idea of abstractions as practical simplifications of systems has been introduced because it is fundamentally useful in the scientist’s day-to-day laboratory experience. By using different levels of abstraction while making observations on a system of interest, we can invoke different techniques. We often find ways to imply information that might not otherwise be accessible to direct measurement. When we examine a system, we decide at what level our detailed knowledge of the system will be needed and choose an abstraction appropriate to that level of detail. Abstractions are like choosing the magnification on a microscope. Remember that abstractions are simplifications; they do not operate out of context. Abstractions are attempts to generalize about systems whose actual behavior may be different from that predicted by the abstraction. Detecting these gaps between real and predicted behavior is the role of experimental science. We can formulate an image of a natural system with its peaks and valleys (represented by functions); then, choosing an abstraction, we predict a behavior of the system. Then we measure and map out the behavior of the real system to see if the prediction is correct. This map of the natural system’s state space gives us the information we need to describe the system and predict its future action. Several of the most important maps we can construct for a biological system are maps of its energy at each point of the state space and of the forces acting at each of these points. These energy and force mappings are a unifying idea that is used in every level of abstraction. Developing a facility and comfort with describing a system in terms of its energy surfaces unifies and simplifies the practice of biophysical chemistry.
Hypermaintenance and hypofunction of aged spermatogonia: insight from age-related increase of Plzf expression.

// Ianina C. Ferder 1,2 and Ning Wang 1,2 1 Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, MGH Vincent Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA 2 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA Correspondence to: Ning Wang, email: // Keywords : spermatogonial stem cell, aging, Plzf, mTORC1, differentiation Received : March 21, 2015 Accepted : April 23, 2015 Published : May 08, 2015 Abstract Like stem cells in other tissues, spermatogonia, including spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) at the foundation of differentiation hierarchy, undergo age-related decline in function. The promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (Plzf) protein plays an essential role in spermatogonia maintenance by preventing their differentiation. To evaluate whether there is an age-related change in Plzf expression, we found that aged mouse testes exhibited a robust “Plzf overexpression” phenotype, in that they showed not only a higher frequency of Plzf-expressing cells but also an increased level of Plzf expression in these cells. Moreover, some Plzf-expressing cells in aged testes even aberrantly appeared in the differentiating spermatogonia compartment, which is usually low or negative for Plzf expression. Importantly, ectopic Plzf expression in F9 cells suppressed retinoic acid (RA)-induced Stra8 activation, a gene required for meiosis initiation. These data, together with our observation of a lack of meiosis-initiating spermatocytes associated with high Plzf-expressing spermatogonia in the aged testes, particularly in the degenerative seminiferous tubules, suggest that age-related increase in Plzf expression represents a novel molecular signature of spermatogonia aging by functionally arresting their differentiation.
Spectral statistics across the many-body localization transition

The many-body localization transition (MBLT) between ergodic and many-body localized phases in disordered interacting systems is a subject of much recent interest. The statistics of eigenenergies is known to be a powerful probe of crossovers between ergodic and integrable systems in simpler examples of quantum chaos. We consider the evolution of the spectral statistics across the MBLT, starting with mapping to a Brownian motion process that analytically relates the spectral properties to the statistics of matrix elements. We demonstrate that the flow from Wigner-Dyson to Poisson statistics is a two-stage process. First, a fractal enhancement of matrix elements upon approaching the MBLT from the delocalized side produces an effective power-law interaction between energy levels, and leads to a plasma model for level statistics. At the second stage, the gas of eigenvalues has local interactions and the level statistics belongs to a semi-Poisson universality class. We verify our findings numerically on the XXZ spin chain. We provide a microscopic understanding of the level statistics across the MBLT and discuss implications for the transition that are strong constraints on possible theories.
Whole-body simultaneous time-of-flight PET-MRI: early experience with clinical studies

Recently, a whole-body, simultaneous positron emission tomography - magnetic resonance imaging (PET-MRI) system combing MRI with time-of-flight (TOF) PET has been developed. We present our initial experience with human clinical studies using 18Ffluorodeoxyglucase (FDG) with this scanner, in comparison to PET-CT. All patients underwent a single-injection of 18F-FDG, with a dual-imaging protocol consisting of PET-CT followed by PET-MRI scan. PET-MR attenuation correction used a two point Dixon fat-water separated method for the body, combined with registration to an atlas for the head. Two radiologists evaluated MRI image quality using the following scale (0 non-diagnostic; 1 poor; 2 good; 3 excellent). PET-MRI and PET-CT images were reviewed for FDG uptake thought to be consistent with malignancy by two readers independently, and categorized into 5 groups (1 both PETMRI and PET-CT positive, 2 PET-MRI positive, PET-CT positive in retrospect; 3 PET-CT positive, PET-MRI positive in retrospect; 4: PET-MRI positive, PET-CT negative; 5: PET-MRI negative, PET-CT positive) by consensus.
On the interaction of surface heating anomalies with zonally symmetric and asymmetric atmospheric flows

Models of intermediate complexity have been used to study some aspects of the climatic effects of anomalous heating, but many aspects of the problem have yet to be explored thoroughly. The present study represents a preliminary investigated of the gaps in scientific understanding of the interaction of heating and atmospheric dynamics. The principle research tool is a model of intermediate complexity, including a time-dependent, nonlinear-two-layer quasi-geostrophic model of relatively high horizontal resolution which incorporates simple heating parameterizations. The model is used to examine systematically the interaction of heating arising from anomalies in surface temperature with zonally symmetric and zonally asymmetric flows characterized by different values of static stability and mean vertical wind shear.
Anti-Thy-1 immunotoxin, OX7-saporin, destroys cerebellar Purkinje cells after intraventricular injection in rats.

Abstract Thy-1 is an abundant surface glycoprotein of rat neurons. OX7 is a monoclonal antibody with high affinity for Thy-1. This study sought to determine if intraventricularly administered OX7 could serve as a carrier to deliver cytotoxin to neurons, thus destroying those neurons. Saporin (Sap), a ribosome-inactivating protein was disulfide-coupled to OX7 (OX7-Sap). OX7-Sap, OX7, saporin alone, pooled non-immune mouse IgG, and an irrelevant immunotoxin, RFT-1-Sap, were injected into the lateral ventricles of anesthetized adult rats. Animals were observed for 1–8 days. OX7-Sap-injected animals developed coarse head tremor and gait/truncal ataxia in a dose-dependent manner beginning 24 h or more after injection. All control animals remained healthy. After OX7 or OX7-Sap injection, immunoperoxidase staining for mouse IgG was most intense and specific in the molecular and Purkinje cell layers of the cerebellar cortex. Cresyl violet staining demonstrated destruction of the Purkinje cell layer in the OX7-Sap-treated animals but not in controls. These results indicate that intraventricular injections of OX7 can be used to deliver biologically active moieties to the Purkinje cells. This approach may prove useful in analysis of Purkinje cell function and as a model of cerebellar degeneration.
Lateralization of pure tones as a function of prolonged binaural intensity mismatch

Pre-exposure of the right ear to amplification of auditory input by means of a hearing aid produced decrements in the ability to lateralize pure tones under dichotic presentation. The decrement in lateralization function increased with an increase in pre-exposure duration. Lateralization decrement was not affected by the signal frequency.
Nematode Pathogenesis and Resistance in Plants

Nematodes comprise a large phylum of animals that includes plant and animal parasites as well as many free-living species (Maggenti, 1981). Plant parasitic nematodes are obligate parasites, obtaining nutrition only from the cytoplasm of living plant cells. These tiny roundworms (generally 4 mm long and barely visible to the human eye) damage food and fiber crops throughout the world and cause billions of dollars in losses annually (Sasser and Freckman, 1987). Some plant parasitic nematodes are ectoparasites, living outside their host. These species cause severe root damage and can be important virus vectors (Brown et al., 1995). Other species spend much of their lives inside roots as migratory or sedentary endoparasites. Migratory parasites move through the root, causing massive cellular necrosis. However, it is the sedentary endoparasites of the family Heteroderidae that cause the most economic damage worldwide. This group is the focus of the review. The Heteroderidae can be divided into two groups: the cyst nematodes, which include the genera Heterodera and Globodera; and the root-knot nematodes (genus Meloidogyne). The soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines) is the most economically important pathogen of soybean in the United States. Potato cyst nematodes (Globodera pallida and G. rosfochiensis) cause losses in potato-growing areas worldwide (Ross, 1986). Root-knot nematodes, so-called for the characteristic root galls or root knots that they form on many hosts (Figure lA), infect thousands of plant species and cause sevele losses in yield of many crops throughout the world (Mai, 1985). Symptoms of diseased plants infected by these groups of nematodes include stunted growth, wilting, and susceptibility to other pathogens. Nematodes in these three genera have complex interactions with their host plants that generally last more than a month and result in major morphological and developmental changes in both organisms. During the infection, elaborate developmental and morphological changes occur in host root cells, especially in those that become the feeding cells that provide the sole source of nutrients for the nematode. There has been a recent burst of activity in the investigation of the molecular changes that mediate the host-parasite interaction. This ac-
Incomplete Symbols in Principia Mathematica and Russell’s “Deﬁnite Proof”

Early in Principia Mathematica Russell presents an argument that "‘the author of Waverley ’ means nothing", an argument that he calls a "definite proof". He generalizes it to claim that definite descriptions are incomplete symbols having meaning only in sentential context. This Principia "proof" went largely unnoticed until Russell reaffirmed a near-identical "proof" in his philosophical autobiography nearly 50 years later. The "proof" is important, not only because it grounds our understanding of incomplete symbols in the Principia programme, but also because failure to understand it fully has been a source of much unjustified criticism of Russell to the effect that he was wedded to a naive theory of meaning and prone to carelessness and confusion in his philosophy of logic and language generally. In my paper, I (1) defend Russell’s "proof" against attacks from several sources over the last half century, (2) examine the implications of the "proof" for understanding Russell’s treatment of class symbols in Principia , and (3) see how the Principia notion of incomplete symbol was carried forward into Russell’s conception of philosophical analysis as it developed in his logical atomist period after 1910.
Multi-factorial analysis of time efficiency in total knee arthroplasty.

The objective of this retrospective review was to determine whether time efficiency could be gained by optimizing the navigation protocol based on a surgeon's specific technique and work flow. Three groups of 30 consecutive patients operated on by the same surgeon were studied. The groups were from three distinct periods between 2002 and 2008. The first group consisted of patients in which no navigation was performed (the control group); the second group consisted of patients in which navigation was performed using a standard protocol; and the third group consisted of patients in which navigation was performed using a customized protocol that eliminated certain steps. Statistical analysis considered analysis of variance for covariates of total time in the operating room, duration of the procedure, and tourniquet time. Chi-square analysis considered categorical variables of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Knee Society score, and patellar resurfacing against the surgical group. Multiple linear regressio...
A vehicle replacement policy for motor carriers in an unsteady economy

In the past few years, the motor carrier industry has experienced a substantial increase in vehicle insurance premiums and a sharp decline of vehicle (tractor) resale values. This study examines how motor carriers should adjust their vehicle replacement policies when such dramatic changes of vehicle resale values and insurance premiums are observed. A model of vehicle replacement optimization is developed, and then is solved by using actual data obtained from a motor carrier. Intensive sensitivity analyses are performed to examine how the optimal solution is affected by the changes of vehicle resale values and insurance premiums, so that carriers can obtain normative policy implications. The results imply that carriers should use longer replacement cycles (extend the duration of vehicle use) when resale values decline. However, optimal vehicle replacement policies are unlikely to be affected by fluctuations of insurance premiums unless the fluctuations are substantial. Carriers may also wish to consider purchasing used vehicles, especially one-year-old vehicles, in order to reduce vehicle operating costs.
Glycolic acid in urine. A colorimetric method with values in normal adult controls and in patients with primary hyperoxaluria.

An improved Chromotropic acid-sulfuric acid assay for urinary glycolic acid is described. The sample (0.5 ml or less) is precleaned by filtering through strongly acidic and strongly basic ion-exchangers and compared with a standard made up in normal urine. From the many compounds tested, only glyceric acid in pathologically high concentrations interfers partially; this interference can be recognized at 776 nm and eliminated by a second determination. Per man-day, 8--12 samples can be analyzed. Recovery of 0.8 mmol/l glycolic acid added to the urines of 12 persons was 100.6 +/- 4.7% (1 S.D., n=12) without, and 101.9 +/- 5.3% (1 S.D., n=12) with correction for isotope dilution of [1-14C]glycolic acid, respectively, using 0.5-ml sample volumes. The variation coefficients of a single determination were 1.5 and 2.1% without and with correction for isotope dilution, respectively (n=7). The method was checked by mass fragmentography. The following normal values were found in adults (n=15; x +/- 1 S.D. (range)): 47.3 +/- 10.1 (24.4--63.7) mmol/mol creatinine and 0.60 +/- 0.15 (0.29--0.91) mmol/day or 45.8 +/- 11.3 (22.2--69.0) mg/day. Two patients (F.G. and A.S.) with primary hyperoxaluria type I excreted glycolic acid between 112 and 379 mmol/mol creatinine and 1.21--5.64 mmol/day or 92--429 mg/day. Under vitamin B-6 treatment, urinary excretion decreased in one patient (F.G.) to 71--131 mmol/mol creatinine and 0.92--2.0 mmol/day or 70--152 mg/day.
Dimensional stability of dental impressions after immersion disinfection

Evaluation of the effect of a 30-minute immersion of full-arch alginate, polysulfide rubber base, vinyl polysiloxane, and polyether dental impressions in selected broad-spectrum disinfectants disclosed minimal changes in the linear dimensions of the resultant casts. It is concluded, therefore, that immersion disinfection of dental impressions does not affect adversely the resultant casts in regard to construction of dental prostheses.
Food level reaction norms in size‐selected milkweed bugs (Oncopeltus fasciatus)

. 1. The hypothesis that the small size of nonmigratory milkweed bugs from Puerto Rico (relative to large migratory bugs from Iowa) might be an adaptation to low food levels was tested with bugs selected for large and small size as the consequence of positive genetic correlation between body size and wing length. The test involved examining reaction norms of life history traits to different food levels. 2. When nymphs were reared on 3 milkweed seeds per nymph from hatch to adult eclosion, large bugs were adversely affected with only 50% and 60% in each of two replicates reaching adulthood. Control (unselected) and small bugs, however, were unaffected at this food level. None of the lines was affected at levels of 6 and 12 seeds per nymph. 3. When adults were reared from eclosion on 12, 18 or 24 milkweed seeds per bug, large bugs were adversely affected relative to control and small bugs at all three food levels. At each food level fewer large bugs produced eggs than either small or control bugs which did not differ. 4. The evidence from the food level reaction norms suggests that larger bugs will be selected against during periods of food shortage of the sort likely to occur in Puerto Rico.
Dentin matrix proteins

Dentinogenesis consists of highly controlled events occurring a short distance from the periphery of odontoblasts: it involves formation of extracellular collagen fibrils that act as an undergirding for deposition of plate-like carbonate apatite crystals. Odontoblasts also form a set of matrix proteins that are probably secreted at the mineralization front. Although most of these proteins are similar to those of bone, and differ from soft tissue proteins, dentin contains two unique proteins. Dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) is rich in aspartic acid (D) and phosphoserine (S*) and binds large amounts of calcium. DPP contains repeating sequences of DS*S* and S*D in discrete areas of the protein. DS*S* repeats form ridges of phosphates and carboxyllates while the S*D sequences give rise to ridges with phosphates and carboxyllates on opposing sides of the peptide chain. These structures undoubtedly have functional significance since DPP is involved in promotion of mineral initiation and in control of mineral size and shape. Dentin sialoprotein (DSP), found only in dentin, is a 53 kDa glycoprotein rich in aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid and glycine. DSP is made by odontoblasts and also by pre-ameloblasts, but not by osteoblasts or other cell types. The gene for DSP is now known to be continuous with that of DPP. Thus, DSP and DPP must be secreted as a single protein which is then proteolytically processed to form the individual components found in the dentin matrix. Significantly, the DSP/DPP gene has been localized to human chromosome 4q21 at a site implicated in dentinogenesis imperfecta type II.
A cloned suppressor tRNA gene relaxes stringent control

A novel element which relaxes stringent control when carried on a recombinant plasmid, pMY3, has been identified. The locus responsible is the Su+7 allele of the tRNATrp gene, for which the plasmid was originally selected.
Numerical simulations of the Macondo well blowout reveal strong control of oil flow by reservoir permeability and exsolution of gas

In response to the urgent need for estimates of the oil and gas flow rate from the Macondo well MC252-1 blowout, we assembled a small team and carried out oil and gas flow simulations using the TOUGH2 codes over two weeks in mid-2010. The conceptual model included the oil reservoir and the well with a top boundary condition located at the bottom of the blowout preventer. We developed a fluid properties module (Eoil) applicable to a simple two-phase and two-component oil-gas system. The flow of oil and gas was simulated using T2Well, a coupled reservoir-wellbore flow model, along with iTOUGH2 for sensitivity analysis and uncertainty quantification. The most likely oil flow rate estimated from simulations based on the data available in early June 2010 was about 100,000 bbl/d (barrels per day) with a corresponding gas flow rate of 300 MMscf/d (million standard cubic feet per day) assuming the well was open to the reservoir over 30 m of thickness. A Monte Carlo analysis of reservoir and fluid properties provided an uncertainty distribution with a long tail extending down to 60,000 bbl/d of oil (170 MMscf/d of gas). The flow rate was most strongly sensitive to reservoir permeability. Conceptual model uncertainty was also significant, particularly with regard to the length of the well that was open to the reservoir. For fluid-entry interval length of 1.5 m, the oil flow rate was about 56,000 bbl/d. Sensitivity analyses showed that flow rate was not very sensitive to pressure-drop across the blowout preventer due to the interplay between gas exsolution and oil flow rate.
Requirements for Evaluating Traffic Signal Control Impacts on Energy and Emissions Based on Instantaneous Speed and Acceleration Measurements

The evaluation of many transportation network improvements commonly is conducted by first estimating average speeds from a transportation or traffic model and then converting these average speeds into emission estimates based on an environmental model such as MOBILE. Unfortunately, recent research has shown that certainly average speed and perhaps even simple estimates of the amount of delay and the number of stops on a link are insufficient measures to fully capture the impact of intelligent transportation system strategies such as traffic signal coordination. In an attempt to address this limitation, the application of a series of multivariate fuel consumption and emission prediction models is illustrated, both within a traffic simulation model of a signalized arterial and directly to instantaneous speed and acceleration data from floating cars traveling down a similar signalized arterial. The application of these multivariate relationships is illustrated for eight light-duty vehicles, ranging in size f...
All-optical square-wave clock generation

Optical square-wave clock generation based on all optical bistable switching system is demonstrated experimentally and theoretically. All active components are driven by DC current and the duty cycle and the oscillation frequency are controllable.
Polarization of Free-Free Bremsstrahlung from Magnetically Confined Plasmas

The polarization of bremsstrahlung from electron-ion collisions is calculated for magnetically confined electrons in the Born approximation. The polarization at high temperature is found to be of opposite sign to the low- temperature result and the small magnitude. (auth)
Magnetic hysteresis of epitaxially-deposited iron in the monolayer range: A Kerr effect experiment in surface magnetism

Abstract A relatively simple technique for studying surface magnetism is employed using the magneto-optic Kerr effect. Magnetic hysteresis data are presented for clean, monolayer-range Fe films epitaxially-deposited on Au(100) in the (1×1) surface structure. The Curie temperature TC is reduced to values near half that for bulk (bcc) Fe for coverages below one layer.
Monoclonal antibodies to lymphocyte surface antigens for cetacean homologues to CD2, CD19 and CD21.

Abstract CD2 is a pan-T cell marker, while CD19 and CD21 are important molecules in signal transduction of B lymphocytes. CD19 and CD21 are both present on mature B cells, while CD19 is also present in developing B cells and plasma cells. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against cetacean lymphocyte putative homologues to CD2 (two different antibodies), CD19 and CD21 were characterized. The proteins immunoprecipitated were as follows: F21.I (putative anti-CD2), 43 and 59 kDa; F21.B (putative anti-CD19), 83 and 127 kDa; F21.F (putative anti-CD21), 144 kDa. The second putative anti-CD2 (F21.C) selectively inhibited the binding of F21.I. Both the putative anti-CD2 (T cell markers) stained T-cell zones on lymph node sections, while both the B cell markers (putative CD19 and CD21) stained B-cell zones. F21.B and F21.F were absent from thymus single cell suspension but labeled 63 and 65% mesenteric lymph node lymphocytes, respectively, while both F21.C and F21.F were present on 100% thymocytes and fewer lymph node lymphocytes. B and T cell markers were mutually exclusive on double labeling using flow cytometry. These mAbs are foreseen as possible valuable diagnostic and research tools to assess immune functions of captive and wild cetaceans.
Effects of cardiac denervation on atrioventricular nodal accommodation and hysteresis

Conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node is significantly altered by changes in autonomic tone. AV nodal accommodation (time-dependent changes in AV nodal conduction after a sudden change in atrial cycle length) and AV nodal hysteresis (asymmetry of AV nodal accommodation after directionally opposite atrial pacing cycle length changes) have been characterized in humans. Studies in dogs after cardiac transplantation suggest that the rapid phase of AV nodal accommodation is altered following ablation of neural input to the AV node. To determine if cardiac denervation alters AV nodal accommodation and hysteresis in humans, 13 patients after orthotopic cardiac transplantation and 12 control patients with normal AV nodal function were studied. Atrial pacing was performed for 1 minute at different pacing cycle lengths and AH or AV intervals were measured after cycle length changes. The rapid phase of accommodation is defined as the time required for the AV interval to reach 75% of the final AV interval. During abrupt changes from long to short pacing cycle lengths, the rapid phase of accommodation took 3.2 +/- 1.0 and 4.3 +/- 1.0 beats in control subjects and transplant patients, respectively (p = not significant [NS]). When going from short to long pacing cycle lengths, the rapid phase of accommodation took 1.7 +/- 1.2 and 2.1 +/- 1.8 beats in control subjects and transplant patients, respectively (p = NS). Hysteresis of 1.5 +/- 1.3 and 2.1 +/- 1.4 beats was noted in the control and transplant groups, respectively (p = NS).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Electron transport across carbon nanotube junctions decorated with Au nanoparticles: Density functional calculations

In recent years, there has been extensive research on carbon nanotube networks owing to their potential for applications in transparent electronics. Several experimental studies have found that electrical conductivity across these networks can be increased by metal nanoparticle doping. To aid in understanding the mechanism of this conductance increase, we have performed first-principles calculations on nanotube junctions decorated with small Au nanoparticles. Our calculations show that the conductance of nanotube junctions is increased by the introduction of odd-numbered Au nanoparticles and electron transport is mediated by resonant tunneling through Au nanoparticle states. In addition, we find interesting interference effects that modulate conduction across doped nanotube junctions that connect near nanotube tips.
TRACHEAL SECRETION INPACTION DURING HYPERVENTILATION FOR PERSISTENT PULMONARY HYPERTENSION OF THE NEONATE

TRACHEAL SECRETION INPACTION DURING HYPERVENTILATION FOR PERSISTENT PULMONARY HYPERTENSION OF THE NEONATE
The back end of a grading system

The phases of a grading system are discussed, namely: delivery, assessment, marking, review, and return. A system which addresses the back end, namely, the last three phases, is described. Late binding of marks to a graded project is used, simplifying the revision process. The use of the system by various courses and its benefits are discussed.
A Transient Heterochromatic State in Xist Preempts X Inactivation Choice without RNA Stabilization

X chromosome inactivation (XCI) depends on a noncoding sense-antisense transcript pair, Xist and Tsix. At the onset of XCI, Xist RNA accumulates on one of two Xs, coating and silencing the chromosome in cis. The molecular basis for monoallelic Xist upregulation is not known, though evidence predominantly supports a posttranscriptional mechanism through RNA stabilization. Here, we test whether Tsix RNA destabilizes Xist RNA. Unexpectedly, we find that Xist upregulation is not based on transcript stabilization at all but is instead controlled by transcription in a sex-specific manner. Tsix directly regulates its transcription. On the future inactive X, Tsix downregulation induces a transient heterochromatic state in Xist, followed paradoxically by high-level Xist expression. A Tsix-deficient X chromosome adopts the heterochromatic state in pre-XCI cells. This state persists through XCI establishment and "reverts" to a euchromatic state during XCI maintenance. We have therefore identified chromatin marks that preempt and predict asymmetric Xist expression.
Differential regulation of gene expression and release of FSH and prolactin by long day and sulfamethazine in chicks.

Abstract In several avian species long day exposure results in plasma elevation of gonadotropins and prolactin (PRL). We examined the early (12–72 h) effects of photostimulation on mRNA transcripts and plasma levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and PRL in three-week old cockerels. In addition, the neuroendocrine influence of the compound, sulfamethazine (SMZ), known to enhance light-induced gonadal development in chicks, was studied when applied with or without long-day photostimulation. Both long day exposure and SMZ intake caused a rapid increase in FSHβ mRNA transcripts at Zeitgeber time 48 (ZT48), while only SMZ stimulated secretion of the hormone into plasma during the course of the study. In contrast to SMZ treatment, photostimulation was more effective at stimulating PRL mRNA transcripts and secretion of PRL. Results demonstrate a differential role of long day exposure and SMZ intake on the regulation of FSH and PRL synthesis and secretion and suggest that some effects of SMZ on gonadal development may be mediated by the pituitary.
Non-institutional treatment of chronic pain by field management: an outcome study with comparison group

Field management, through the use of specially trained field consultants, is a mechanism by which interdisciplinary interventions can be implemented in non-institutional settings. Management of the real environmental determinants (home, work, social) of pain and disability should improve the effectiveness of behaviorally based interventions and make these treatments more accessible. Over a 6 year period, 261 patients having various chronic somatic complaints (e.g., pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal complaints) underwent interdisciplinary outpatient treatment based on medical and behavioral sciences. Comparison of patients having field management with patients receiving office-based treatment found a significantly greater reduction in disability with field management. 84% of field managed patients had a successful outcome as defined by: (a) return to regular work, or (b) reduced limitations on work, exercise, and daily living activities, depending on functional status at assessment. Only 61% of patients with office-based treatment were successful. Compliance, defined as the frequency with which treatment was mutually terminated, was significantly higher with field management. The availability of long-term disability benefits was highly predictive of a poorer outcome. However, field management remained effective for improving functional status regardless of the availability of benefits. Finally, determination of the cost of non-institutional treatment indicated that field management is a cost-effective modality. Implications of these findings for the treatment of disability in chronic pain and other chronic illness syndromes are discussed.
Statistics of the surface temperature field of an air/water interface under air flow

Experimental results are presented that reveal the relationship between the root mean square of the surface temperature field of an air/water interface (σ) and the heat flux (q′′) emanating from that interface, over a range of wind speeds. Experiments were conducted for wind speeds ranging from 1.0 to 4.0 m/s to determine if and how the σ versus q′′ relationship was affected by wind speed. Consistent surfactant coverage conditions were maintained for wind speeds ranging from 1.0 to 2.6 m/s, and these are the focus of the results presented herein. For wind speeds above 2.6 m/s the surfactant was consistently pushed downstream, resulting in an inhomogeneous surface condition for the air/water interface. For wind speeds less than 2.6 m/s the relationship between σ and q′′ is approximately linear and is weakly dependent on wind speed. The surface temperature field was obtained by infrared (IR) imaging. Sample IR images are presented in addition to the σ versus q′′ data. IR images are presented for surfaces covered with insoluble surfactants (liquid phase and solid phase), a soluble surfactant, and a clean water surface.
Symptomatic improvement with one-year cisapride treatment in neuropathic chronic intestinal dysmotility.

Aim : To assess the efficacy of a prokinetic agent in the long-term treatment of chronic intestinal dysmotility and the influence of extrinsic denervation. Methods : We assessed symptoms, compliance and untoward effects in an open, 1-year trial of cisapride, 20 mg t.d.s., in 37 patients with neuropathic forms of chronic intestinal dysmotility. Patients' autonomic function had previously been characterized ; effects of cisapride at 12 weeks in a placebo-controlled trial were previously reported. Results : Seventeen patients had idiopathic dysmotility, 11 had diabetes mellitus with autonomic dysfunction, five had had previous gastric surgery and four had neurological syndromes. Median medication compliance was 98.9% for the study period completed by each individual. Median duration of follow-up was 9.5 months ; 20 patients completed 1 year of treatment, and 27 of 37 at least 6 months of treatment ; seven dropped out because of lack of benefit. Mean total symptom score was significantly reduced at the last observation relative to the entry into the trial ; this was particularly the case in those patients without abdominal vagal dysfunction. One patient withdrew because of aggravation of abdominal pain. Conclusions : During an open, long-term trial, cisapride, 20 mg t.d.s., provided continued symptomatic relief to patients with chronic intestinal dysmotility, particularly those without vagal neuropathy.
Ultrasonic absorption frequency dependence of two widely used anti-cancer drugs: doxorubicin and daunorubicin

Low intensity ultrasound (approximately 10−6 W cm−2) in the frequency range 0.5–6.0 MHz was employed to investigate the ultrasound absorption properties of doxorubicin (DOX) at several temperatures. At physiological temperatures, we found enhanced ultrasound absorption from DOX, and its closely related analogue daunorubicin (DNR), in the upper kilohertz frequency range. The findings do not conform to classical theory of ultrasound absorption, thus suggesting an ultrasound coupling with the drug molecules via structural and/or chemical relaxation processes. The absorption spectra are analysed from the point of view of the non-classical theory of sound absorption due to physical and/or chemical relaxations. Only one spectral difference between the two anti-cancer agents is observed, around 2 MHz, and may be attributed to the sole difference in the chemical make-up of the side chain of the two antibiotics.
Adherence and persistence in the use of warfarin after hospital discharge among patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

Abstract Background Postdischarge adherence and long-term persistence in the use of warfarin among patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation without contraindications have not been fully described. Methods and Results We identified patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation who were ≥65 years old, eligible for warfarin, and discharged home from hospitals in the Get With the Guidelines–Heart Failure registry from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2009. We used linked Medicare prescription drug event data to measure adherence and persistence. The main outcome measures were rates of prescription at discharge, outpatient dispensing, discontinuation, and adherence as measured by the medication possession ratio. We hypothesized that adherence to warfarin would differ according to whether patients received the prescription at discharge. Among 2,691 eligible patients, 1,856 (69.0%) were prescribed warfarin at discharge. Patients prescribed warfarin at discharge had significantly higher prescription fill rates within 90 days (84.5% vs 12.3%; P P P Conclusions One-third of eligible patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation were not prescribed warfarin at discharge from a heart failure hospitalization, and few started therapy as outpatients. In contrast, most patients who were prescribed warfarin at discharge filled the prescription within 90 days and remained on therapy at 1 year.
Short Commuunication: Effect of Dietary Protein Depletion and Repletion on Skeletal Muscle Calpastatin During Early Lactation

Sixteen multiparous Jersey cows were assigned at calving to one of 4 dietary treatments. An 18% crude protein (CP) diet was fed as a total mixed ration through 30 d in milk (DIM), and beginning at 31 DIM a 9, 12, 15, or 18% CP diet was fed through 58 DIM (depletion). All cows were then fed the 18% CP diet until 84 DIM (repletion). Muscle biopsies were taken under local anesthesia at 49 and 84 DIM from the semitendinosus muscle. Milk production, DMI, and milk component contents were measured. Calpain and calpastatin contents of muscle taken at biopsy were evaluated using Western blotting techniques. Milk production and milk protein content were reduced during the depletion period by decreasing dietary protein. Diet had no effect on milk fat content or DMI. During repletion, DMI was affected by dietary treatment. Western blots of muscle extracts indicated no differences in calpain content at any stage of the experiment or in calpastatin content of muscle at 49 DIM. However, at 84 DIM, calpastatin (135 kDa) was lower or undetectable in cows fed either the 9 or 12% CP diets from 31 to 59 DIM. Bands for a 110-kDa degradation product of calpastatin were present in some cows fed the 9, 12, and 15% CP diets during the depletion period. Results indicate a change in skeletal muscle calpain/calpastatin proteolytic system during protein repletion following depletion with diets of less than 15% CP during early to peak lactation in dairy cows.
Benign lesions of the mandibular and maxillary region in children : characterization by CT and MRI

The CT criteria for classifying lesions of the mandibular and maxillary regions in adults as benign or malignant are well recognized: irregular soft tissue margins and bone destruction. We reviewed the charts of 12 pediatric patients from 3 institutions to evaluate these criteria in children. These masses were evaluated by CT and/or MRI based solely on well-recognized and published criteria. The patients' ages ranged from 4 mo to 18 yr. The histological diagnoses were ameloblastoma (4), hemangioma (2), lymphangioma, desmoplastic fibroma, hemangiopericytoma, neurofibroma, fibrous dysplasia, and juvenile angiofibroma. All but one case was surgically proven. Among the 12 cases, 5 had bone destruction and 5 showed irregular soft tissue margins. Three cases satisfied both criteria. With well-recognized CT criteria (in adult patients), characterization of these processes led to an incorrect diagnosis of a malignant lesion in 8 of the 12 cases preoperatively. Therefore, CT and MR imaging should only be a guide to the planning and extent of surgical resection. Without clearly defined distal spread of the mass, the classification of these masses in children should be made with caution.
Bowel resection at the time of primary cytoreduction improves disease-free survival in epithelial ovarian cancer patients and is associated with acceptable morbidity

Abstract Introduction: To determine the morbidity, disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) associated with bowel resection at the time of primary cytoreductive surgery for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) in the era of platinum/taxane chemotherapy. Methods: A computerized database identified 37 women who underwent a bowel resection at the time of primary cytoreduction for advanced EOC and subsequently received platinum/taxane chemotherapy from 1996 to 2000. Data was collected on demographics, stage, histology, debulking status, surgical morbidity, recurrence, and survival. Survival analysis and comparisons were performed using the Kaplan Meier method and log-rank test. Results: Of 37 patients with Stage III/IV EOC, 20 patients (54%) were optimally debulked to less than 1 cm residual disease. Four-year OS was 78% in the optimally debulked group versus 53% in the suboptimally debulked group (p = 0.20). Four-year DFS in the optimally debulked group was 46% versus 0% in the suboptimally debulked group (p = 0.004). The primary indication for bowel resection was tumor debulking in 86% of patients. Five patients (14%) experienced a major postoperative complication including stroke, small bowel obstruction, colon obstruction, entercutaneous fistula, and pelvic abscess. Other perioperative morbidity included pneumonia (3 patients), ileus (6 patients), and wound infection and/or seroma (3 patients). Mean estimated blood loss was 700 ml; mean hospital stay was 7 days (range 3–15). Conclusions: Patients with advanced EOC who undergo bowel resection and are optimally debulked have a significant improvement in DFS. Bowel resection at the time of primary cytoreductive surgery has acceptable perioperative morbidity.
Impacts of salinity and freshwater inflow on oyster-reef communities in Southwest Florida

Lors de l'evaluation des habitats de recifs d'huitres, il est important de comprendre l'influence de la salinite sur la base de variabilites spatio-temporelles des organismes associes. Comment la structure des communautes peut etre comparable entre stations situees a differents points d'un gradient de salinite des estuaires ou des cours d'eau soumis a l'influence de la maree, et qui sont donc soumis a differents niveaux d'arrivees d'eau douce ? Les assemblages varient-ils avec la saison au changement de salinite et des apports d'eau douce ? Pour repondre a ces questions, des methodes statistiques multivariees sont utilisees pour analyser les donnees d'abondance de crustaces decapodes et de poissons. Les animaux sont recoltes sur trois recifs le long d'un gradient de salinite de trois estuaires : l'estuaire et le fleuve Caloosahatchee, de ceux de l'Estero et de la baie et du canal de Faka. Des prelevements supplementaires sont fait sur les recifs situes pres de l'embouchure de 5 fleuves cotiers de la baie de l'Estero. Dans les echantillons, les crabes Eurypanopeus depressus et les crabes porcelaines vert Petrolisthes armatus sont les plus abondants. Les especes les plus communement rencontrees incluent les Decapodes Panopeus obesus (crabes), Alpheus heterochaelis et Rhithropanopeus harrisii et les poissons Gobiosoma robustum, Lophogobius cyprinoides et Gobiesox strumosus. L'analyse des similarites laisse supposer des differences entre les stations situees le long de gradients de salinite des trois estuaires. La structure des communautes varie entre stations situees pres de l'embouchure des fleuves de la baie de l'Estero. L'echelle multidimensionnelle permet d'identifier la structure de la communaute situee au niveau des stations en amont, distincte de pelle situee en aval, ainsi que celle associee a d'importantes arrivees d'eau douce par rapport a celle de faibles arrivees d'eau douce. Les stations en amont et celles soumises a de fortes arrivees d'eau douce sont caracterisees par E. depressus et des poissons gobiides. Les stations situees en aval et au niveau de faibles arrivees d'eau douce sont caracterisees par E. depressus et P. armatus. Les differences sont les plus grandes lorsque les stations les plus amont et les plus aval sont comparees. La variabilite des echantillons d'une meme station tend a etre plus elevee en amont ou en association avec d'importantes arrivees d'eau douce.
Cyclic AMP dysregulates intestinal epithelial cell restitution through PKA and RhoA.

Background: Mucosal homeostasis is dependent on the establishment and maintenance of the cell–cell contacts that comprise the physiological barrier. Breaks in the barrier are linked to multiple diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. While increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels limit inflammation by decreasing leukocyte infiltration, the effects of elevated cAMP on intestinal epithelial repair are unknown. Methods: Restitution in animals administered rolipram was monitored by microscopic examination after laser wounding of the intestinal epithelium or in mice treated with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). In vitro analysis was conducted using IEC6 and T84 cells to determine the role of elevated cAMP in altering Rho-dependent cellular migration signaling pathways. Results: We show that treatment with rolipram, forskolin, and cAMP analogs decrease intestinal epithelial cell migration in vitro. In vivo cell imaging revealed that increased cAMP resulted in a decreased cellular migration rate, with cells at the edge displaying the highest activity. As expected, elevated cAMP elicited increased protein kinase A (PKA) activity, in turn resulting in the inactivation and sequestration of RhoA and decreased actin reorganization. The ablation of restitution by cAMP was not restricted to cell culture, as forskolin and rolipram treatment significantly decreased epithelial microwound closure induced by the two photon confocal injury model. Conclusions: Together, these data suggest that administration of cAMP-elevating agents paradoxically decrease infiltration of damage-causing leukocytes while also preventing epithelial repair and barrier maintenance. We propose that treatment with cAMP-elevating agents severely limits mucosal reepithelialization and should be contraindicated for use in chronic inflammatory bowel disorders. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2012)
Introduction to critical perspectives and emerging models of inter-American studies

(2005). Introduction to critical perspectives and emerging models of inter-American studies. Comparative American Studies An International Journal: Vol. 3, No. 4, pp. 387-391.
Early complications of cystectomy after high dose pelvic radiation.

Purpose: Radical cystectomy in patients with a history of pelvic radiation therapy is often a challenging and morbid procedure. We report early complication rates in patients undergoing cystectomy and urinary diversion after high dose pelvic radiation.Materials and Methods: From 1983 to 2008, 2,629 patients underwent cystectomy with urinary diversion at a single institution. Of these patients 148 received 60 Gy or greater pelvic radiation therapy before surgery. Patient medical records were retrospectively reviewed and any complication within 90 days of surgery was graded using the Clavien-Dindo system.Results: Median patient age was 74 years with a median American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3. Patients received a median of 70 Gy pelvic radiation therapy a median of 2.3 years before surgery. Urinary diversions performed were ileal conduit in 65 patients (43.9%), continent cutaneous pouch in 35 (23.6%) and orthotopic neobladder in 48 (32.4%). A total of 335 early complications were identified. T...