cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Retinoic Acid Availability Drives the Asynchronous Initiation of Spermatogonial Differentiation in the Mouse

Throughout the reproductive lifespan of most male mammals, sperm production is constant because of the regulated differentiation of spermatogonia. Retinoic acid (RA) and a downstream target, Stra8, are required for complete spermatogenesis. To examine the role of RA in initiating spermatogonial differentiation, a transgenic mouse model expressing beta-galactosidase under the control of an RA response element was used. Cells in the neonatal testis undergoing active RA signaling were visualized by beta-galactosidase activity, the relationship between RA and differentiation determined, and the role of RA-degrading enzymes in regulating RA demonstrated. Beta-galactosidase activity was found to be predominantly associated with differentiating, premeiotic germ cells and to be distributed nonuniformly throughout the seminiferous tubules. Additionally, beta-galactosidase activity in premeiotic germ cells colocalized with STRA8 protein and was induced in germ cells with exogenous RA treatment. The RA-degrading enzyme, CYP26B1, was found to have germ cell localization and nonuniform distribution between tubules via immunohistochemistry. Treatment with a CYP26 enzyme inhibitor resulted in an increased number of germ cells with both beta-galactosidase activity and STRA8 protein and an increase in the expression of genes associated with differentiation and reduced expression of a gene associated with undifferentiated germ cells. These results show the action of RA in a subset of spermatogonia leads to nonuniform initiation of differentiation throughout the neonatal testis, potentially mediated through the action of CYP26 enzymes. Thus, the presence of RA is a likely driving factor in the initiation of spermatogonial differentiation and may result in asynchronous spermatogenesis.
Mass spectrometry and gas chromatography of trimethylsilyl derivatives of catecholamine related molecules

The trimethylsilyl derivatives of approximately 50 compounds related in structure to biogenic catecholamines have been studied in terms of their gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric behavior. The electron impact mass spectra of the trimethylsilyl derivatives of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine and deuterated isotopic variants were compared to determine fragmentation characteristics of the amines, acids, alcohols and amino acids within this class of compounds. Analysis of shifts in the masses of major diagnostic ions in the spectra of structural analogs of these compounds has shown that structural modification of the structure can be identified and localized within these molecules. The gas chromatographic characteristics of these derivatives are reported, in terms of methylene unit values.
Therapeutic angiogenesis in cardiovascular disease

Despite considerable progress in the management of ischaemic cardiovascular disease during the past three decades, there remains a significant population of patients who are not served well by current treatment approaches. Stimulating revascularization in ischaemic regions is an attractive novel therapeutic strategy, and several angiogenic agents anticipated to have the potential to achieve this goal have been clinically evaluated in recent years. However, as yet none have shown sufficient efficacy to be approved. Here, we consider the key findings from the completed clinical trials of therapeutic angiogenesis in cardiovascular disease, and discuss possible changes to the way in which such agents are developed that could improve the chances of success.
Assessing the omnipotence of inositol hexakisphosphate

This review assesses the authenticity of inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP(6)) being a wide-ranging regulator of many important cellular functions. Against a background in which the possible importance of localized InsP(6) metabolism is discussed, there is the facile explanation that InsP(6) is merely an "inactive" precursor for the diphosphorylated inositol phosphates. Indeed, many of the proposed cellular functions of InsP(6) cannot sustain a challenge from the implementation of a rigorous set of criteria, which are designed to avoid experimental artefacts.
The toxic action and interactions of copper and cadmium to the marine AlgaDunaliella minuta, in both acute and chronic exposure

The effective concentrations of copper and cadmium which reduced the population growth ofDunaliella minuta by 50% after 96 h of static exposure, were determined to be 7.57 μM Cu and 0.34 μM Cd. Short-term static exposure to both metals indicated that their combined action is antagonistic with respect to growth of this chlorophyte. Additionally, long-term exposure to low levels of Cu or Cd led to the acquisition of tolerance towards Cu and Cd, respectively, and co-tolerance towards Cu.
The Galerkin method applied to convective instability problems

The Galerkin method is applied in a new way to problems of stationary and oscillatory convective instability. By retaining the time derivatives in the equations rather than assuming an exponential time-dependence, the exact solution is approximated by the solution to a set of ordinary differential equations in time. Computations are simplified because the stability of this set of equations can be determined without finding the detailed solution. Furthermore, both stationary and oscillatory instability can be studied by means of the same trial functions. Previous studies which have treated only stationary instability by the Galerkin method can now be extended easily to include oscillatory instability. The method is illustrated for convective instability of a rotating fluid layer transferring heat.
Cowden syndrome: report of a case with immunohistochemical analysis and review of the literature

Cowden syndrome is a rare condition defined by multiple hamartomatous growths and a guarded prognosis owing to the high risk of cancer development. The syndrome is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. The PTEN/MMAC1/TEP1 tumor suppressor gene on chromosome 10q23.3, has proven to contain a germline mutation predisposing for uncontrolled cell growth and survival via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Presented here is a case of Cowden syndrome in a patient with multiple hamartomas of the nose, midfacial skin and oral mucosa, and fissured tongue; plus a history of bipolar disease, iron deficiency anemia, basal cell carcinoma, fibroids of the uterus, and arthritis. The family history was significant for a daughter diagnosed with lung cancer. A final diagnosis of Cowden syndrome was made on the basis of established criteria and confirmed using immunohistochemistry directed against PTEN and phosphorylated-AKT.
Combinatorial and High‐Throughput Methods in Macromolecular Materials Research and Development

Combinatorial and high-throughput experimentation is used to accelerate the rate of experimentation in macromolecular science. Combinatorial and high-throughput methods are used in macromolecular science to discover and optimize catalysts for polymerization reactions, discover compositions that have specific desired properties, and systematically explore polymer structure-property relationships. The use of high-throughput methods can enable the discovery of complex catalyst systems or polymer compositions that would not be feasible using conventional experimental methods. In addition, combinatorial data can be used as inputs into computer models to enable the accurate prediction of material properties as a function of composition.
Dynamic Polarizabilities and van der Waals Coefficients

A simple two-point Pad\'e approximant of the dynamic polarizability is used to generate a variety of formulas for van der Waals coefficients including the Slater-Kirkwood formula for two-body interactions and the Midzuno-Kihara formula for three-body interactions. The mathematical properties of the approximant are examined. It is shown that some formulae are bounds of the actual value while others give remarkably accurate results.
Census of Prokaryotic Senses

The overwhelming majority of life on our planet is microbial, both in terms of phylogenetic diversity (15, 19) and sheer numbers of organisms (25). Virtually every conceivable environmental niche harbors microorganisms capable of growing there. This evolutionary success likely depends in part on signal transduction, the ability to sense changing environmental conditions and then implement appropriate responses. Bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryotic microorganisms utilize two-component regulatory systems for the purpose of signal transduction. In the prototypical case (Fig. ​(Fig.1A),1A), the first component is a sensor kinase, in which detection of environmental stimuli by an input domain is represented by autophosphorylation of a conserved transmitter domain. Phosphoryl groups are then transferred from the sensor kinase to the second component, a response regulator, in which the phosphorylation status of the conserved receiver domain regulates activity of an output domain. In this issue of the Journal of Bacteriology, Michael Galperin describes a census of output domains in response regulators encoded by 200 different prokaryotic species (6). The results give us a much more detailed and comprehensive look at the diversity of responses implemented by two-component regulatory systems than has previously been available. FIG. 1. Domain architecture of signaling proteins. (A) Prototypical example of a two-component regulatory system. Stimulus detection by the input domain regulates autophosphorylation of the transmitter domain. Phosphotransfer to the receiver domain regulates ...
Compatibility of cicer milkvetch in mixtures with cool-season grasses

(...) The seven grass species used in the first study were: smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.), meadow bromegrass (B. biebersteinii Roem, and Schult.), crested wheatgrass [Agropyron cristatum (L.) Beauv. ssp. pectinatum (Bieb) Tzvel.], intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium (Host.) Barkworth & Dewey], pubescent wheatgrass [T. intermedium ssp. barbulatum (Schur.)], tall wheatgrass [T. elongatum (Host.) Dewey], and creeping foxtail (Alopecurus arundinaceus Poir). The grasses used in the second study were smooth bromegrass, meadow bromegrass, intermediate wheatgrass, and orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). (...)
Surgical crown and bridge prosthodontics

Abstract A bilateral mandibular alveolectomy and the reduction in the gingivo-occlusal height of the opposing maxillary posterior teeth proved to be the solution for the problems associated with this case. However, such a treatment plan is not advocated for the vast majority of patients with similar situations. Before proceeding with any plan for the removal of mandibular bone, extreme caution should be exercised. This treatment was undertaken for this patient for the following reasons: 1. The patient's age was favorable. Neither a younger nor older patient would have been as favorable. 2. The alveolar bone present was in excellent condition presenting well-formed and well-positioned ridges. 3. There was no loss of normal vertical dimension. 4. Mandibular posterior soft tissues and alveolar bone were being traumatized, and would be lost in some degree under such conditions. 5. Careful examination of the roentgenographs and illustrations will reveal that the maxillary molar teeth were not extruded or elongated. If extrusion had occurred, the clinical crowns of these teeth would have been increased gingivo-occlusally with the resulting exposure of the necks of the teeth. Clinical examination failed to reveal any extrusion, but rather, it disclosed the fact that all the tissues in the entire maxillary molar regions had dropped en masse. Such a condition makes the reshaping of these maxillary teeth easier and more tolerable for the patient.
Estimating functions by partial sums of their Fourier series

For classes of functions with convergent Fourier series. the problem of estimating the rate of convergence of the Fourier series has always been of interest. A classical theorem like that of Dirichlet and Jordan for functions of bounded variation (BV) assures the convergence of the Fourier series but gives no estimate of the rate of convergence. Such an estimate was recently provided by Bojanic [ 11. For certain classes of functions of generalized bounded variation the conclusions of the Dirichlet-Jordan theorem also hold. Waterman 15, 7 1 has shown that the class of functions of harmonic bounded variation (HBV) is, in a certain sense, the largest such class. An estimate of the rate of convergence of the Fourier series has been made for certain classes which lie between BV and HBV [2]. Here we consider this problem in greater generality for /IBV classes in that range to obtain a result which includes the previous estimates and allows us to make an estimate for a particular class which is closer to HBV than the classes previously con sidered. If f is a real valued function on the interval (a. 61 and .I = {A,,/ is a nondecreasing sequence of positive numbers such that x l/i,, diverges. we say that f is of /i-bounded variation (,4BV) if the sums
Chronic treatment with extended release methylphenidate does not alter dopamine systems or increase vulnerability for cocaine self-administration: a study in nonhuman primates.

Despite the widespread use of stimulant medications for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, few studies have addressed their long-term effects on the developing brain or susceptibility to drug use in adolescence. Here, we determined the effects of chronic methylphenidate (MPH) treatment on brain dopamine (DA) systems, developmental milestones, and later vulnerability to substance abuse in juvenile nonhuman primates. Male rhesus monkeys (approximately 30 months old) were treated daily with either a sustained release formulation of MPH or placebo (N=8 per group). Doses were titrated to achieve initial drug blood serum levels within the therapeutic range in children and adjusted throughout the study to maintain target levels. Growth, including measures of crown-rump length and weight, was assessed before and after 1 year of treatment and after 3–5 months washout. In addition, positron emission tomography scans were performed to quantify binding availability of D2/D3 receptors and dopamine transporters (DATs). Distribution volume ratios were calculated to quantify binding of [18F]fluoroclebopride (DA D2/D3) and [18F]-(+)-N-(4-fluorobenzyl)-2β-propanoyl-3β-(4-chlorophenyl)tropane (DAT). Chronic MPH did not differentially alter the course of weight gain or other measures of growth, nor did it influence DAT or D2/D3 receptor availability after 1 year of treatment. However, after washout, the D2/D3 receptor availability of MPH-treated animals did not continue to decline at the same rate as control animals. Acquisition of intravenous cocaine self-administration was examined by first substituting saline for food reinforcement and then cocaine doses (0.001–0.1 mg/kg per injection) in ascending order. Each dose was available for at least five consecutive sessions. The lowest dose of cocaine that maintained response rates significantly higher than saline-contingent rates was operationally defined as acquisition of cocaine reinforcement. There were no differences in rates of acquisition, overall response rates, or cocaine intake as a function of cocaine dose between groups. In an animal model that closely mimics human development; chronic treatment with therapeutic doses of sustained release MPH did not have a significant influence on the regulation of DATs or D2/D3 receptors, or on standard measures of growth. Furthermore, this treatment regimen and subsequent drug washout did not have an impact on vulnerability to cocaine abuse.
Dry Bean and Soil Response to Tillage and Row Spacing

Specific studies relating tillage system with performance and yield of dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are limited. This study examined how tillage and row spacing affect dry bean development, growth, and yield. The study was conducted on a Parkhill loam (fine-loamy, mixed, nonacid, mesic Mollic Endoaquepts) from 1989 through 1991. Six tillage treatments (moldboard plow, moldboard plow without secondary tillage, chisel plow, ridge till, no-tillage, and no-tillage plus cultivation) and row spacings of 56 and 71 cm were evaluated in a split-plot design. 'Mayflower' dry bean followed maize (Zea mays L.) in a maize-dry bean-sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.)-oat (Avena sativa L.) rotation. Canopy height, trifoliolate leaf number, leaf area, and total biomass of dry bean were measured at three times in 1990 and four times in 1991, and seed yield was measured at harvest. Soil bulk density, total porosity, macroporosity, and saturated conductivity were measured in September of 1989 and 1990. Soil water contents were measured weekly at the 0- to 15-cm, 15- to 30-cm, and 30- to 75-cm depths. In general, there were no interactions between tillage and row spacing over the three years. Dry bean yields in the 56-cm row spacing were 0.3 to 0.6 Mg ha -1 higher than in the 71-cm row spacing for all three years. Tillage had no effect on yield in the dry year of 1989, but no-tillage reduced yields 0.57 and 0.9 Mg ha -1 in 1990 and 1991 compared with moldboard plowing. Ridge tillage and no-tillage plus cultivation in 1990 and chisel plowing in 1991 also reduced dry bean yields. Tillage affected soil water contents slightly in 1990, but had little effect on soil properties measured in the fall.
Acupuncture for dysphagia after chemoradiation therapy in head and neck cancer: a case series report.

Background: Dysphagia is a common side effect following chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods: In this retrospective case series, 10 patients with HNC we...
Guided test visualization: Making sense of errors in concurrent programs

This paper describes a tool to help debug error traces found by the Java Pathfinder model checker in concurrent Java programs. It does this by abstracting out thread interactions and program locations that are not obviously pertinent to the error through control flow or data dependence. The tool then iteratively refines the abstraction by adding thread interactions at critical locations until the error is reachable. The tool visualizes the entire process and enables the user to systematically analyze each abstraction and execution. Such an approach explicitly identifies specific context switch locations and thread interactions needed to debug a concurrent error trace in small to moderate programs that can be managed by the Java Pathfinder Tool.
Stimulation of a Ouabain-Sensitive Rb+ uptake in human erthrocytes with an external electric field

(Na, K)ATPase of the red blood cell (RBC) is known to be electrogenic. Activation of this pump hyperpolarizes the RBC membrane by several millivolts. By exposing erythrocytes in an isotonic suspension to an alternating electric field it is possible to modulate transmembrane potential (delta psi) of the RBC. We have found that this modulation stimulates uptake of Rb+, against a chemical concentration gradient, when the applied AC field exceeds 10 V/cm (or an induced delta psi of 6 mV). The voltage-stimulated Rb+ uptake is completely inhibited by ouabain. Thus, (Na, K)ATPase may be involved. The stimulated Rb+ uptake is unrelated to the thermal effect by several lines of evidence. First, this uptake is above levels in controlled samples maintained at an identical temperature. Second, this uptake shows an optimum voltage. The maximum stimulation obtained in our experiment (26 amol/RBC X hr) occurs at 20 V/cm, i.e., a delta psi of 12 mV. Above or below this field strength the uptake is reduced. Third, this uptake is AC frequency dependent. It peaks around 1 kHz and diminishes at 1 MHz. The effective range is between 0.1 kHz to 0.1 MHz. A thermal effect would not be frequency dependent. In contrast to the ATP-dependent pumping activity of the (Na, K)ATPase, no stimulated Na+ efflux is detectable with the AC field. Neither Rb+ efflux, nor Na+ influx is stimulated by the AC field. Rb+ uptake is also stimulated by the AC field in a RBC sample treated with vanadate. The meaning of these observations is discussed.
The Effect of Acute Salt Loads on the Urinary Sodium Output of Normotensive and Hypertensive Patients before and after Surgery

Under the stress of acute hypertonic salt loading, hypertensives excrete sodium at a much greater rate than normotensives. Immediately following splanchnicectomy, sodium excretion is markedly reduced in the hypertensive, but after several months it returns toward preoperative levels. There appears to be a rough correlation between maximum rate of sodium excretion and mean blood pressure. Normotensives by contrast exhibit insignificant differences pre- and postoperatively.
Role of Neuregulin‐1/ErbB Signaling in Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury‐Induced Chronic Neuropathic Pain

Chronic neuropathic pain is a common and debilitating consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI). In a rat contusion injury model, we observed that chronic neuropathic pain is present on day 7 after SCI and persists for the entire 56-day observation period. However, currently available pain therapies are inadequate for SCI-induced neuropathic pain. In this study, we show that spinal transplantation of mouse embryonic stem cell-derived oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) enhances remyelination in the injured spinal cord and reduces SCI-induced chronic neuropathic pain. Moreover, we found that SCI reduces the protein level of neuregulin-1 and ErbB4 in the injured spinal cord and that OPC transplantation enhances the spinal expression of both proteins after SCI. Finally, intrathecal injection of neuregulin-1 small interfering RNA, but not the control nontarget RNA, diminishes OPC transplantation-produced remyelination and reverses the antinociceptive effect of OPC transplantation. Our findings suggest that the transplantation of embryonic stem cell-derived OPCs is an appropriate therapeutic intervention for treatment of SCI-induced chronic neuropathic pain, and that neuregulin-1/ErbB signaling plays an important role in central remyelination under pathological conditions and contributes to the alleviation of such pain.
Prevention of Immunological Tolerance to Shigella Antigens in New-born Mice by Immune Spleen Cell Extracts

IMMUNOLOGICAL capability may be restored in tolerant adult animals by means of spleen or lymph node cell transplants from normal or immune donors1,2. In somewhat similar situations, establishment of tolerance to Shigella parodysenteriae antigens3 and to bovine serum albumin4 has been prevented in neonatal mice by simultaneous administration of normal spleen or thymus cell suspensions obtained from either neonatal or adult donor mice. In the Shigella system, it was found that viable lymphoid cells were apparently necessary for interference with establishment of tolerance. Heat-killed normal lymphoid cells, and non-lymphoid tissue suspensions from liver, lung, kidney and brain, were not effective3. During the course of these investigations, it was found that transfer of spleen cell suspensions from adult donor mice previously immunized to Shigella antigens was more effective in blocking tolerance than transfer of cells from either neonatal or normal adults3.
PRESSURE COEFFICIENTS FOR BAND GAPS IN SILICON

Abstract We have calculated the pressure coefficients of the main gaps in Si, using the Empirical Pseudopotential Method (EPM). We find a trend toward metallization at high hydrostatic pressures. The deformation potential at the top of the valence band for uniaxial stress along the (0, 0, 1) direction is also obtained. All of the calculated pressure coefficients are in good agreement with experiment.
Tokyo's Other Games: The Origins and Impact of the 1964 Paralympics

In November 1964, Japan became only the third country to host what quickly became known as the Paralympic Games. Tracing the origins of the Tokyo Paralympics, this article explores why Japan, a cou...
Metabolic mapping of the effects of chronic voluntary ethanol consumption in rats

The 2-[14C]deoxyglucose method was used to examine the effects of chronic, voluntary ethanol consumption on rates of local cerebral glucose utilization (LCGU). LCGU was measured in male Long-Evans rats immediately following the completion of a 60-min schedule-induced polydipsia drinking session. Three groups of animals were examined: animals with a history of ethanol consumption that received ethanol on the test day (ethanol-ethanol), animals with a similar ethanol history that were presented with water on the test day (ethanol-water), and a control group that received water throughout the experiment (water-water). Ethanol consumption on the test day resulted in a highly discrete pattern of metabolic changes, with significant decreases in glucose utilization in the hippocampal complex, habenula, anterior ventral thalamus, and mammillary bodies, whereas increases were observed in the nucleus accumbens and locus coeruleus. Rates of LCGU in the ethanol-water group were increased throughout all regions of the central nervous system examined, indicating that the long-term consumption of moderate ethanol doses that do not produce physical dependence can cause significant changes in functional brain activity.
Lessons in Conflict of Interest: The Construction of the Martyrdom of David Healy and The Dilemma of Bioethics

Bioethics journals have lagged behind medical and science journals in exploring the threat of conflict of interest (COI) to the integrity of publications. Some recent discussions of COI that have occurred in the bioethics literature are reviewed. Discussions of what has been termed the "Healy affair" unintentionally demonstrate that the direct and indirect influence of undisclosed COI may come from those who call for protection from the undue influence of industry. Paradoxically, the nature and tone of current discussions may serve to dull sensitivities to what is indeed a serious set of issues facing bioethics. Some proposals are presented to address COI and other challenges to the integrity of bioethics and its journals. COI is too important a topic to be left to ideologues, and there is no substitute for readers' caution and skepticism as tools in dealing with the full range of biases that exist in published papers.
Entry of alphaherpesviruses into cells

Abstract Studies on four alphaherpesviruses (herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, pseudorabies virus and bovine herpesvirus 1) have revealed some common features of their entry into cells. The pathway of entry can be by fusion of the virion envelope with the cell plasma membrane. Receptors for binding and entry include heparan sulphate moieties of cell surface proteoglycans and other as yet unidentified cell surface components. Related glycoproteins specified by each of the four viruses mediate the binding of virus to heparan sulphate and subsequent molecular interactions leading to the penetration of virus into the cell.
Effects of varying delay of reinforcement and postreinforcement intervals on learning of retardates.

Abstract All combinations of two levels of delay of reinforcement (0 and 15 seconds) and two levels of postreinforcement intervals (1 and 16 seconds) were used in a two choice discrimination learning task with institutionalized retardates. Significantly more correct responses were given under 0-second delay. Latency of responding was significantly shorter under 0-second delay than under 15-second delay, and was also shorter under 1-second postreinforcement than under 16-second postreinforcement conditions. The interaction of postreinforcement interval by blocks of trials produced a significantly greater shortening of latency in the 1-second condition over the five blocks per day. The latency results indicated that delay interval should not be confounded with postreinforcement interval since both intervals influence latency of responding.
Social Stability and HIV Risk Behavior: Evaluating the Role of Accumulated Vulnerability

This study evaluated a cumulative and syndromic relationship among commonly co-occurring vulnerabilites (homelessness, incarceration, low-income, residential transition) in association with HIV-related risk behaviors among 635 low-income women in Baltimore. Analysis included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, latent class analysis and latent class regression. Both methods of assessing multidimensional instability showed significant associations with risk indicators. Risk of multiple partners, sex exchange, and drug use decreased significantly with each additional domain. Higher stability class membership (77%) was associated with decreased likelihood of multiple partners, exchange partners, recent drug use, and recent STI. Multidimensional social vulnerabilities were cumulatively and synergistically linked to HIV risk behavior. Independent instability measures may miss important contextual determinants of risk. Social stability offers a useful framework to understand the synergy of social vulnerabilities that shape sexual risk behavior. Social policies and programs aiming to enhance housing and overall social stability are likely to be beneficial for HIV prevention.
k-zeta (Enstrophy) Compressible Turbulence Model for Mixing Layers and Wall Bounded Flows

We extend the κ-ζ model of Robinson et al. to compressible turbulent flows. The success of the κ-ζ in reproducing a variety of incompressible flows should provide a good basis for the current model. As in the incompressible model, the current model will be based on the exact compressible equations to ensure that the correct physics is incorporated.
Scoperchiare un baule di racconti: Sull’Atlante della letteratura italiana Einaudi

Nel terzo volume dell’Atlante della letteratura italiana Einaudi, studiosi di diversa formazione saldano nel loro sguardo rigore filologico e passione del racconto entro una struttura reticolare, che alterna “saggi-evento” e “saggi grafici.” I saggi-evento aprono squarci narrativi su momenti che hanno avuto un particolare potere catalizzante nello sviluppo della storia letteraria italiana. Ai saggi grafici spetta invece il compito di materializzare la Storia (e le storie) attraverso mappe, diagrammi, cronologie, grafici e didascalie: sono questi elementi, insieme ai risultati derivati da rigorose ricerche d'archivio, a costituire l’impalcatura e la novita dell’intera opera.
Risk Factors for Injury in High School Football Players

BackgroundMany studies have reported the frequency and types of injuries in high school football players. However, few have assessed the relationship between player characteristics and risk of injury.PurposeTo describe the epidemiologic characteristics of and risk factors for injury in high school football players and to determine whether players’ characteristics could be used to predict subsequent injury.Study DesignProspective cohort study.MethodsThis study was part of a 2-year prospective investigation (1998 to 1999) of risk factors for injury in 717 (343 in the 1998 season and 374 in the 1999 season) high school football players in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, School District. Player characteristics (playing experience, position, injury history) and physical parameters (body mass index, weight, height, grip strength) were measured at the beginning of each season. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine whether any of the baseline variables were associated with the odds of subsequent injury....
Characterization and training of a piezoelectric deformable mirror for operation at 1550 nm

Characterizing the fundamental response and operational parameters of a deformable mirror is a critical first step in the design of an adaptive optics system. This paper describes the characterization of the influence function and training of a piezoelectric deformable mirror (PDM) at 632 nm. We scale the results to 1550 nm for low to mid order aberration correction for free space laser communications applications in the Short Wave Infrared (SWIR). A modified Twyman-Green interferometer was used to measure the influence functions and to characterize the mirror. The data was analyzed using commercial and customized software.
Forgiveness and Health in Christian Women

Researchers in psychology have studied the influence of forgiveness on the both the psychological and physical health of individuals. In addition, parish nursing is also looking at forgiveness as a potential benefit for self-care and health promotion. Forgiveness was measured using Enright's Forgiveness Inventory. Health was measured using Spielberg's State/Trait Anger measure, Beck's II Depression measure, SPF-15 Health Survey. Body Mass Index was also calculated. Mixed Methods was also used to describe the qualitative findings using content analysis on the types of unjust violations Christian women experienced. Women expressed very severe unjust violations involving sexual, physical, emotional, financial and spiritual abuse. Statistical correlations suggested important relationships among forgiveness and overall health measures warranting further investigation. The relationship between Church type and forgiveness raised questions about women's role in the Church as well as, the importance of acknowledging personal feelings, which are excluded in many orthodox denomination's doctrines.
Copy Coats: COPI Mimics Clathrin and COPII

The assembly of COPI into a cage-like lattice sculpts membrane vesicles that transport cargo from the Golgi apparatus. Now, Lee and Goldberg (2010) present X-ray crystal structures of COPI suggesting that these coats combine selected features of two other archetypal coats, clathrin and COPII.
METHODOLOGICAL ANALYSIS THROUGH SYSTEMS SIMULATION

Simulation techniques are widely used for analyzing the policy decisions of managers. This paper presents a “higher-level” use of simulation to analyze the modeling decisions of analysts, which models are, in turn, useful for policy analysis. Methodological systems simulation (MSS) is described in terms of a systems performance prediction problem. The MSS program is outlined and the two major uses of MSS-evaluation of alternative models and simulation of the analyst–are described in terms of the results of simulation runs using the systems performance prediction context.
Limited inferior macular translocation for the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration.

Abstract PURPOSE: To review a series of patients with age-related macular degeneration undergoing limited macular translocation for the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization, to determine short-term visual acuity outcomes, to measure amounts of attainable retinal movement, and to identify prognostic factors. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted on a consecutive series of patients undergoing inferior limited macular translocation with scleral imbrication for the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration. The main outcome measures investigated were distance of macular translocation, visual acuity at 3 and 6 months after surgery, change in visual acuity from baseline, and the development of intraoperative and postoperative complications. Univariate and multivariate analyses of a number of potential prognostic factors were undertaken. RESULTS: Macular translocation was achieved in all 102 eyes (101 patients) included in this study. The range of movement varied from 200 to 2,800 μm with a median movement of 1,200 μm. Nearly 33% of the study group achieved a visual acuity better than 20/100 at 3 months, and 49% achieved this vision at 6 months. At 3 and 6 months, 37% and 48% of the study group, respectively, experienced 2 or more lines of improvement on visual acuity testing, and by 6 months 16% experienced greater than 6 lines of visual improvement. Good baseline vision, achieving the desired amount of macular translocation, a greater amount of macular translocation, and recurrent choroidal neovascularization at baseline were associated with better visual acuities at 3 and 6 months. Poor preoperative vision and the development of complications were associated with worse vision at 3 and 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Limited macular translocation is a technically feasible procedure that can lead to significant visual improvement and good visual acuity in some patients presenting with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration. A randomized prospective clinical trial of this surgical technique is warranted.
Retinal regional differences in photoreceptor cell death and regeneration in light-lesioned albino zebrafish.

Abstract Teleost fish regenerate retinal cells from a population of inner nuclear layer (INL) stem cells. To characterize photoreceptor regeneration in zebrafish (Danio rerio), adult albino fish were subjected to constant intense light to cause photoreceptor cell death. Retinal morphometry was performed on histological sections of control and light-lesioned albino retinas to compare the extent of light damage in the ventral, central and dorsal retinal regions. In addition, opsin immunohistochemistry and TUNEL were used to compare photoreceptor cell death in these different retinal areas, while PCNA immunolabeling quantified the cell proliferation that precedes the photoreceptor regeneration. Transgenic albino; Tg(α1-tubulin:egfp) zebrafish were also exposed to the intense light in order to examine regeneration-related gene expression changes. The light-lesioned retinas are characterized by extensive rod and cone photoreceptor cell death in the central and dorsal regions. In contrast, many of the rods and cones survive in the ventral retina. The highest levels of INL cell proliferation, which occurs subsequent to photoreceptor death, correspond to the retinal regions that suffer the greatest levels of photoreceptor damage. In the ventral retina, where photoreceptor cell death is minimal, cell proliferation is confined to the ONL. In addition, EGFP expression from the α1-tubulin promoter is increased in Muller glial cells in the light-damaged central and dorsal retina, while transgene expression in the ventral retina is restricted to small, round INL cells. Furthermore, expression of the HuC/D neuronal antigen is detected in a subpopulation of the Muller cells in the light-damaged superior retinal region. These data demonstrate that adult albino zebrafish display retinal regional differences in photoreceptor cell death and in the regeneration-related INL cell proliferation response. The high levels of INL cell proliferation and α1-tubulin:egfp transgene expression in the Muller cells may be graded in response to the degree of photoreceptor cell death. This suggests that the levels of photoreceptor damage may directly influence cell responses in the underlying retinal layers.
Use of a native predator to control overcrowding in warm-water polyculture ponds : simulation of a tucunare (Cichla monoculus)-tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) system

Abstract In this paper we describe an ecologically mechanistic simulation model representing the use of native predators (tucunare, Cichla monoculus) to control overcrowding of the primary culture species (tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus). The model consists of a prey submodel representing population dynamics and growth of tilapia, a predator submodel representing the predation process and subsequent population dynamics and growth of tucunare, and an economic submodel that calculates total net revenue. Simulated harvest weights of tilapia and tucunare were not distinguishably different from field observations, although tilapia weights were overestimated slightly. Results of sensitivity analysis suggest that the model could benefit most from refined estimates of tilapia growth rate and a better understanding of the dynamic size relationships between predator and prey that determine prey availability. Simulation of 21 different management scenarios suggests that stocking 10 tucunare weighing either 2 g or 10 g yields the highest total net revenue at the earliest harvest data. Stocking 20 tucunare weighing either 2 g or 10 g yields only slightly less total net revenue, but postpones harvest time by 3 weeks. Given the complexity of predator-prey relationships within polyculture systems, the interpretation of field observations on fish survival and growth can be enhanced greatly when viewed within the framework of an ecological model. From a management perspective, ecological models provide a means of explicitly relating pond production, and hence net revenue, to the underlying ecological processes that ultimately drive system dynamics.
Inhibition of mixtures of surfactant lipids and synthetic sequences of surfuctant proteins SP-B and SP-C

Abstract The respiratory distress syndrome of premature infants is caused by both surfactant deficiency and surfactant inhibition by capillary-alveolar leakage of serum factors. Dispersions of a standard surfactant lipid mixture, with and without various synthetic peptides, modeled on human surfactant proteins SP-B (residues 1–25, 49–66, 1–78) and SP-C (residues 1–10), were evaluated for inhibition by serum and by plasma constituents using a pulsating bubble surfactometer. Inhibition was derived from the changes in surface properties of these mixtures after addition of human serum or plasma constituents. Modified bovine surfactant (TA) containing native SP-B and SP-C was used as a control. In the absence of serum inhibitors, mixtures with synthetic peptides gave results similar to surfactant TA. However, inhibition was more evident in the dispersion with synthetic peptides when compared with surfactant TA. The peptide/phospholipid mixture with the entire sequence of SP-B and the first 10 residues of SP-C were more resistant to inhibition than mixtures with synthetic peptides containing fewere domains. Addition of calcium reduced the inhibitory effects of serum both in mixtures containing synthetic peptides and in surfactant TA. Therefore, synthetic SP-B and SP-C peptides in surfactant lipids, in cooperation with calcium, permit resistance to inhibition by several plasma constituents that probably surfactant by a variety of different mechanisms.
Magnetomechanical acoustic emission — a new method for non-destructive stress measurement

Abstract This paper describes a newly found non-destructive testing technique for residual stress measurements, which is called magnetomechanical acoustic emission (MAE). It applies to ferromagnetic materials only, but has a greater depth of penetration than other common methods of residual stress analysis, such as X-ray diffraction and acoustic surface wave. Previous studies on MAE are reviewed, in which effects of metallurgical and magnetic parameters on MAE were evaluated. Our recent study has correlated magnetic properties of nickel and iron to MAE characteristics. Some of the observed features of MAe can be explained in terms of the domain theory, but many unresolved questions remain. Practical applications must await further developmental efforts, but some preliminary results of residual stress analysis for a welded steel plate and others are presented.
Giant cellular blue nevus of the anterior chest wall mimicking metastatic melanoma to the breast: a case report.

Background and Objectives Blue nevi are benign pigmented dermal lesions that can mimic cutaneous melanoma in appearance. Cellular components may infiltrate subcutaneous tissue. We present a complex case of cellular blue nevus (CBN) to demonstrate the ambiguous clinical appearance of these lesions and to provide an approach for management of such cases. Methods We report an extraordinary case of CBN mimicking metastatic melanoma to the breast. A 53-year-old female with an acquired giant blue nevus of the chest wall was found to have two new breast nodules suspicious for malignancy on routine mammography. These were biopsied and interpreted as consistent with metastatic melanoma vs. CBN. The patient underwent complete excision of the chest wall nevus and modified radical mastectomy. Results Pathologic evaluation of the chest wall specimen revealed numerous collections of deeply pigmented melanocytes scattered throughout the breast parenchyma and embracing ductal structures. No mitoses or nuclear polymorphism were seen. The diagnosis of CBN involving the chest, breast tissue and axillary lymph nodes was made. Conclusion Giant blue nevi overlying the breast can develop cellular components that infiltrate subcutaneous and breast tissue resulting in the appearance of breast nodules on mammography. A generous excision biopsy inclusive of the overlying nevus and breast component may be required to establish the dignity of the lesion. J. Surg. Oncol. 2000;74:278–281. © 2000Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The magnitude and durability of functional improvement after total shoulder arthroplasty for degenerative joint disease.

Abstract So that patients with degenerative glenohumeral joint disease who wish to consider total shoulder arthroplasty will be better informed, we sought to document the magnitude and durability of the improvement in shoulder function after this procedure. The function of 124 shoulders with primary degenerative joint disease was documented by patient self-assessment with the Simple Shoulder Test before and sequentially after total shoulder arthroplasty performed with a standardized technique. Patients reported that they could perform 3.8 ± 0.3 (SEM) of the 12 Simple Shoulder Test functions before surgery. The total number of performable functions was consistent at different follow-up intervals: 8.0 ± 0.4 at 6 months, 9.5 ± 0.4 at 1 year, 10.0 ± 0.3 at 2 years, 9.2 ± 0.4 at 3 years, 9.6 ± 0.4 at 4 years, and 10.0 ± 0.4 at 5 years. We conclude that total shoulder arthroplasty can provide substantial and durable improvement in shoulder function. (J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2001;10:464-9.)
Three families of two-parameter means constructed by trigonometric functions

In this paper, we establish three families of trigonometric functions with two parameters and prove their monotonicity and bivariate log-convexity. Based on them, three two-parameter families of means involving trigonometric functions, which include Schwab-Borchardt mean, the first and second Seiffert means, Sandor’s mean and many other new means, are defined. Their properties are given and some new inequalities for these means are proved. Lastly, two families of two-parameter hyperbolic means, which similarly contain many new means, are also presented without proofs.
Rate controlling model for bioremediation of oil contaminated soil

A mathematical model of bio-remediation of hydrocarbons in a soil matrix has been developed to predict the rate controlling step and the remediation rate during the bioremediation of a contaminated soil. The model is based on mass transfer of oxygen and oil into the aqueous solution in the soil matrix and the biodegradation of the hydrocarbons in the aqueous solution. Monod's equation was used to describe the biodegradation rate in aqueous solution while the mass transfer equations were used to describe the mass transfer rates of oxygen and oil in the soil matrix. Results from model calculations indicate that the bio-remediation rate increases and approaches a limiting value when one of the rates becomes controlling. When the parameters of the site soil samples are measured and the solubilities of oxygen and oil in aqueous solution are obtained, the bioremediation rate can be predicted by this model. The rate controlling step of the bioremediation site may be identified quickly and steps to improve the bioremediation rate can be recommended. 8 refs., 7 figs.