cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temperature regulates limb length in homeotherms by directly modulating cartilage growth

Allen's Rule documents a century-old biological observation that strong positive correlations exist among latitude, ambient temperature, and limb length in mammals. Although genetic selection for thermoregulatory adaptation is frequently presumed to be the primary basis of this phenomenon, important but frequently overlooked research has shown that appendage outgrowth is also markedly influenced by environmental temperature. Alteration of limb blood flow via vasoconstriction/vasodilation is the current default hypothesis for this growth plasticity, but here we show that tissue perfusion does not fully account for differences in extremity elongation in mice. We show that peripheral tissue temperature closely reflects housing temperature in vivo, and we demonstrate that chondrocyte proliferation and extracellular matrix volume strongly correlate with tissue temperature in metatarsals cultured without vasculature in vitro. Taken together, these data suggest that vasomotor changes likely modulate extremity growth indirectly, via their effects on appendage temperature, rather than vascular nutrient delivery. When combined with classic evolutionary theory, especially genetic assimilation, these results provide a potentially comprehensive explanation of Allen's Rule, and may substantially impact our understanding of phenotypic variation in living and extinct mammals, including humans.
Cancer screening by systemic administration of a gene delivery vector encoding tumor-selective secretable biomarker expression.

Cancer biomarkers facilitate screening and early detection but are known for only a few cancer types. We demonstrated the principle of inducing tumors to secrete a serum biomarker using a systemically administered gene delivery vector that targets tumors for selective expression of an engineered cassette. We exploited tumor-selective replication of a conditionally replicative Herpes simplex virus (HSV) combined with a replication-dependent late viral promoter to achieve tumor-selective biomarker expression as an example gene delivery vector. Virus replication, cytotoxicity and biomarker production were low in quiescent normal human foreskin keratinocytes and high in cancer cells in vitro. Following intravenous injection of virus >90% of tumor-bearing mice exhibited higher levels of biomarker than non-tumor-bearing mice and upon necropsy, we detected virus exclusively in tumors. Our strategy of forcing tumors to secrete a serum biomarker could be useful for cancer screening in high-risk patients, and possibly for monitoring response to therapy. In addition, because oncolytic vectors for tumor specific gene delivery are cytotoxic, they may supplement our screening strategy as a “theragnostic” agent. The cancer screening approach presented in this work introduces a paradigm shift in the utility of gene delivery which we foresee being improved by alternative vectors targeting gene delivery and expression to tumors. Refining this approach will usher a new era for clinical cancer screening that may be implemented in the developed and undeveloped world.
Transformation kinetics of trace-level halogenated organic contaminants in a biologically active zone (BAZ) induced by nitrate injection

Abstract Laboratory experiments and numerical modeling were conducted to evaluate the secondary utilization of eight trace-concentration halogenated solvents in a denitrifying biologically active zone (BAZ) induced by nitrate injection into an acetate-fed porous-medium column. Results of column experiments indicated that carbon tetrachloride was removed most completely by the denitrifying BAZ, while bromoform, dibromoethane, tetrachloroethene, trichloroethene, and 1,2- and 1,3-dichlorobenzenes were removed, but to lesser degrees. 1,1,1-trichloroethane removal was slight. Compounds were removed to higher degrees when the BAZ contact time was increased. The steady-state, one-dimensional solute-transport equation was solved using an iterative finite-difference scheme and by employing a quasilinearization technique for the biofilm-reaction term. The model solved directly for the steady-state profiles of secondary substrates. One set of experimental results was used to obtain best-fit values of kinetic parameteres, which were then used to predict the removal at different liquid velocities. The model predictions correctly described all experimental trends: removal of the halogenated compounds in the BAZ, greater removal with increased BAZ contact time, and reduced specific removal rates caused by diffusion limitation in the biofilm.
Mercury-Free Preparation, Characterization, and Molecular Structure of Tricyanovinylferrocene Using an Unusual Reaction between Ferrocene and Tetracyanoethylene

A direct reaction between ferrocene (FcH) and tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) in various solvents and within a wide range of temperatures has been investigated in order to optimize the preparation of tricyanovinylferrocene. Under optimized reaction conditions, tricyanovinylferrocene was prepared in ∼26% yield along with cyanoferrocene as a major reaction product in the reaction between 1 equiv of FcH and 2 equiv of TCNE for 10 min in sulfolane at 110 °C. It was proposed that the reaction proceeds via a single-electron-transfer step, which results in the formation of a spectroscopically detected [FcH]•+[TCNE]•- intermediate followed by homolytic cleavage of the C−CN bond. The possible phase transition in tricyanovinylferrocene has been tested by X-ray crystallography at 173 and 293 K. The prominent visible band observed in the UV−vis spectrum of tricyanovinylferrocene has been unambiguously assigned to a metal-to-ligand charge-transfer transition on the basis of experimental and theoretical (TDDFT) data, while i...
MAGNETITE SPHERULES IN MIOCENE VERSUS RECENT SANDS OF NEW JERSEY

Spherules composed of magnetite were found throughout the state of New Jersey. Samples of coastal plain sands of Miocene age, beach sands, street sweepings, wind-blown dust, river waters, and dust from the stack scrubber of a scrap iron foundry were carefully examined. Spherules were found in each of the samples representing recent environments and in ancient sediments sampled near the surface, but are absent from each of the wide variety of ancient sediments carefully sampled below about one meter. The spherule samples consistently contain 0.4–0.8 weight percent Mn but contain less than 0.1 weight percent Ni. It is concluded that virtually none of the spherules is of an extraterrestrial origin.
Vasopressin, maternal behavior, and pup well-being

The brain peptide, vasopressin (VP), was studied with respect to its effects on maternal care in rearing natural and cross-fostered pups. Long-Evans (LE) rats synthesize hypothalamic VP; whereas, Brattleboro (DI) rats do not produce this peptide. Long-Evans dams exhibited superior maternal care when compared with DI dams when rearing their own as well as foster pups. This enhanced behavior was evidenced by the higher survival rate of pups reared by LE mothers compared to those reared by DI mothers. Later, when the offspring were subjected to the stress of 23 hours of food restriction each day, LE animals reared by their natural mothers survived for a significantly longer period of time and developed significantly less stomach pathology than DI animals reared by their natural mothers or LE foster mothers. The results demonstrated that the secondary factor of maternal care in the absence of VP was of little consequence in the characteristic difficulties observed in DI offspring.
Weak-wind mesoscale meandering in the nocturnal boundary layer

This study examines the strength and statistical behavior of mesoscale motions on time scales up to 1 h using eight data sets over different surface types. The mesoscale motions include internal gravity waves, microfront-like structures, horizontal modes, and a complex variety of other signatures, perhaps resulting from superposition of different modes. With weak large-scale flow, the mesoscale motions lead to meandering of the wind direction, as found in previous studies. However, the meandering often takes the form of sudden wind shifts rather than oscillation of wind direction.
The form of motor-unit and fibrillation potentials.

Resume Un muscle de la jambe du rat a ete active par voie reflexe chez l'animal anesthesie. Le stimulus reflexogene etait d'origine cutanee. Les unites motrices ont ete enregistrees sur la surface du muscle avec des electrodes bipolaires et monopolaires. La forme des potentiels unitaires a ete etudiee et il a ete note que la plupart de ces unites contenaient des fibres innervees par l'une des deux zones de plaques terminales. Il a ete observe que l'interdigitation des unites etait tres marquee. Pres des plaques terminales actives le potentiel de l'unite motrice etait quadriphasique. Ailleurs souvent une forme en M ou en W a ete observee consistant en 3 a 7 phases. Cette forme resultait de l'addition de 2 enregistrements monopolaires triphasiques compliquee par certains facteurs parmis eux les suivants: 1. Sommation de potentiels developes dans deux zones de plaques terminales separees par une distance relativement grande. 2. Position oblique de l'electrode en relation avec la direction des fibres musculaires. 3. Variations de la distance entre les electrodes. 4. Dispersion temporelle resultant de differences dans le diametre de la fibre musculaire. 5. Dispersion spartiale des plaques terminales. On peut conclure de ces observations que des potentiels polyphasiques d'une complexite considerable peuvent etre observes dans l'electromyogramme du muscle normal et que la multiplication des phases par elles-memes n'est par consequent pas une preuve suffisante pour la presence d'une etat pathologique. La meme forme complexe a ete observee dans les enregistrements d'un muscle denerve en etat de fibrillation. Ici la vitesse de propagation est plus lente que dans les fibres normales et ceci est un facteur additionel complicant l'interpretation des enregistrements. Cependant sur la base des criteres habituels de telles formes de potentiels ne seraient pas classifiees comme indiquant la presence de fibrillation. Ceci s'applique aussi pour certains potentiels en forme de M qui ont ete observes dans le muscle denerve et qui se repetaient a une cadence excessivement reguliere. Ces potentiels ont ete interpretes comme le resultat d'une sommation de potentiels de fibrillation engendree par des groupes de fibres denervees et subissant une synchronisation par un mechanisme encore inconnu.
Optic Nerve Degeneration in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

The mechanisms of axonal and neuronal degeneration causing disability in optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis are poorly understood. Here we describe the role of mitochondria, oxidative stress and th
Preprogramming, programming and reprogramming of aimed hand movements as a function of age.

The present experiments were conducted to investigate the relationship between age and the response programming operations underlying the execution of a ballistic motor act. In an initial experiment, two separate age groups of female subjects (mean ages of 21.9 and 69.1 years) performed aimed movements of the right hand and arm in one of two movement directions (left or right), under preprogramming, programming, and reprogramming conditions. These operations were examined by providing advance information about the direction of an impending movement and manipulating the degree of correspondence between the advance information and a subsequent reaction signal. The results indicated that subjects in the older age group reacted and moved more slowly than subjects in the younger age group; however, there was no interaction between age and the three response programming conditions. Such findings indicated that the basic operational characteristics of these processes remain unaffected with advancing chronologica...
Evidence for nonstatistical dynamics in the Wolff rearrangement of a carbene.

Two 13C-labeled isomers of the formal Diels−Alder adduct of acetylmethyloxirene to tetramethyl 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylate have been synthesized. Flash vacuum thermolysis of these adducts leads to various isotopic isomers of acetylmethylketene, the ratios of which have been determined by NMR. The surprising finding that the principal product comes from methylpyruvoyl carbene rather than its more stable isomer diacetylcarbene is explained by MPWB1K density functional calculations, which show that the reactant probably undergoes a unimolecular rearrangement to a norcaradiene derivative prior to its fragmentation. Coupled-cluster calculations on the methylpyruvoyl carbene show that it is capable of undergoing three unimolecular isomerizations. The fastest is 1,2-acetyl migration to give acetylmethylketene directly. The next is rearrangement via acetylmethyloxirene to diacetylcarbene and thence by Wolff rearrangement to acetylmethylketene. The least-favorable reaction is degenerate rearrangement via 1,3-dimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[1.1.0]butan-4-one (the epoxide of dimethylcyclopropenone). The combined experimental and computational results indicate that Wolff rearrangement of the diacetylcarbene occurs with a 2.5:1 ratio of the methyl groups despite the fact that they are related by a twofold axis of symmetry in the carbene. Preliminary molecular dynamics simulations are consistent with this conclusion. Taken together, the results suggest that the Wolff rearrangement is subject to the same kind of nonstatistical dynamical effects detected for other kinds of thermally generated reactive intermediates.
Phenomenolgical model inversion with Fisher information metrics for unexploded ordnance detection

Many of the ongoing efforts to develop strategies for detecting and locating subsurface unexploded ordnance (UXO) use features based on phenomenological models to discriminate between UXO and harmless clutter. The process of generating features requires model inversion to fit the phenomenological model to the measured sensor data. In commonly-used model inversion processes, the standard measures of model fit error do not incorporate the spatial distribution of the data used in the model inversion. This study incorporates the Fisher information in a joint metric optimization to assess the spatial distribution of data and how well the model parameters are supported by the data used in the model inversion. The outcomes of this study indicate that some outliers in the feature space can be mitigated by considering the Fisher information in the model inversion process, resulting in improved unexploded ordnance detection rates in a test using data collected at Camp Sibert, Alabama.
Is Speech Arrest during Wada Testing a Valid Method for Determining Hemispheric Representation of Language

Abstract Background and objective: The intracarotid amobarbital procedure, or Wada test, is the method of choice to determine hemispheric representation of language, and is routinely used in the presurgical evaluation for intractable epilepsy. Some investigators perform comprehensive language assessments, but others base language lateralization solely on speech arrest. This study sought to determine whether speech arrest alone during Wada testing provides valid data regarding language lateralization. Methods: The subjects (previously reported) were 21 patients evaluated for intractable epilepsy, who underwent language lateralization by Wada testing and functional MRI (FMRI). For each patient, language representation was determined by calculating: (1) a Wada laterality index based exclusively on speech arrest; (2) a Wada laterality index based on comprehensive language assessment; and (3) an FMRI laterality quotient. Correlation coefficients and categorical classifications were analyzed. Results: There was no significant correlation between the Wada laterality quotient derived from duration of speech arrest and either the comprehensive Wada language laterality score ( r = .35, p = .12) or FMRI language laterality score ( r = .32, p = .16). Categorical classification as left, right or bilateral language also showed marked discordance between speech arrest and the other two methods. Conclusion: Duration of speech arrest during Wada testing is not a valid measure of language dominance.
The effects of a mindfulness‐based stress reduction program on stress, mindfulness self‐efficacy, and positive states of mind

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has grown in popularity over the last two decades, showing efficacy for a variety of health issues. In the current study, we examined the effects of an MBSR intervention on pain, positive states of mind, stress, and mindfulness self-efficacy. These measures were collected before and following an 8-week intervention. Post-intervention levels of stress were significantly lower than pre-intervention levels, while mindfulness self-efficacy and positive states of mind were at significantly higher levels. The findings underscore the potential for stress management, awareness and attention training, and positive states of mind using MBSR. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deficits in Tactile Learning in a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome

The fragile X mental retardation 1 mutant mouse (Fmr1 KO) recapitulates several of the neurologic deficits associated with Fragile X syndrome (FXS). As tactile hypersensitivity is a hallmark of FXS, we examined the sensory representation of individual whiskers in somatosensory barrel cortex of Fmr1 KO and wild-type (WT) mice and compared their performance in a whisker-dependent learning paradigm, the gap cross assay. Fmr1 KO mice exhibited elevated responses to stimulation of individual whiskers as measured by optical imaging of intrinsic signals. In the gap cross task, initial performance of Fmr1 KO mice was indistinguishable from WT controls. However, while WT mice improved significantly with experience at all gap distances, Fmr1 KO mice displayed significant and specific deficits in improvement at longer distances which rely solely on tactile information from whiskers. Thus, Fmr1 KO mice possess altered cortical responses to sensory input that correlates with a deficit in tactile learning.
Semiconductor defect metrology using laser-based quantitative phase imaging

A highly sensitive laser-based quantitative phase imaging tool, using an epi-illumination diffraction phase microscope, has been developed for silicon wafer defect inspection. The first system used a 532 nm solid-state laser and detected 20 nm by 100 nm by 110 nm defects in a 22 nm node patterned silicon wafer. The second system, using a 405 nm diode laser, is more sensitive and has enabled detection of 15 nm by 90 nm by 35 nm defects in a 9 nm node densely patterned silicon wafer. In addition to imaging, wafer scanning and image-post processing are also crucial for defect detection.
SUNSPOT ROTATION, FLARE ENERGETICS, AND FLUX ROPE HELICITY: THE HALLOWEEN FLARE ON 2003 OCTOBER 28

We study the X17 eruptive flare on 2003 October 28 using Michelson Doppler Imager observations of photospheric magnetic and velocity fields and TRACE 1600 A images of the flare in a three-dimensional model of energy buildup and release in NOAA 10486. The most dramatic feature of this active region is the 123° rotation of a large positive sunspot over 46 hr prior to the event. We apply a method for including such rotation in the framework of the minimum current corona model of the buildup of energy and helicity due to the observed motions. We distinguish between helicity and energy stored in the whole active region and that released in the flare itself. We find that while the rotation of a sunspot contributes significantly to the energy and helicity budgets of the whole active region, it makes only a minor contribution to that part of the region that flares. We conclude that in spite of the fast rotation, shearing motions alone store sufficient energy and helicity to account for the flare energetics and interplanetary coronal mass ejection helicity content within their observational uncertainties. Our analysis demonstrates that the relative importance of shearing and rotation in this flare depends critically on their location within the parent active region topology.
Effective range corrections in few-body systems with large scattering length

The effective field theory with contact interactions alone is a powerful tool to compute low-energy observables for three-body systems with large scattering length. Recent calculations including effective range corrections are discussed and results are presented.
Identifying and Exploiting Diurnal Motifs in Wind Generation Time Series Data

Wind energy is scheduled on the power grid using 0–6 h ahead forecasts generated from computer simulations or historical data. When the forecasts are inaccurate, control room operators use their expertise, as well as the actual generation from previous days, to estimate the amount of energy to schedule. However, this is a challenge, and it would be useful for the operators to have additional information they can exploit to make better informed decisions. In this paper, we use techniques from time series analysis to determine if there are motifs, or frequently occurring diurnal patterns in wind generation data. We compare two different representations of the data and four different ways of identifying the number of motifs. Using data from wind farms in Tehachapi Pass and mid-Columbia Basin, we describe our findings and discuss how these motifs can be used to guide scheduling decisions.
Handling linkage disequilibrium in qualitative trait linkage analysis using dense SNPs: a two-step strategy

In affected sibling pair linkage analysis, the presence of linkage disequilibrium (LD) has been shown to lead to overestimation of the number of alleles shared identity-by-descent (IBD) among sibling pairs when parents are ungenotyped. This inflation results in spurious evidence for linkage even when the markers and the disease locus are not linked. In our study, we first theoretically evaluate how inflation in IBD probabilities leads to overestimation of a nonparametric linkage (NPL) statistic under the assumption of linkage equilibrium. Next, we propose a two-step processing strategy in order to systematically evaluate approaches to handle LD. Based on the observed inflation of expected logarithm of the odds ratio (LOD) from our theoretical exploration, we implemented our proposed two-step processing strategy. Step 1 involves three techniques to filter a dense set of markers. In step 2, we use the selected subset of markers from step 1 and apply four different methods of handling LD among dense markers: 1) marker thinning (MT); 2) recursive elimination; 3) SNPLINK; and 4) LD modeling approach in MERLIN. We evaluate relative performance of each method through simulation. We observed LOD score inflation only when the parents were ungenotyped. For a given number of markers, all approaches evaluated for each type of LD threshold performed similarly; however, RE approach was the only one that eliminated the LOD score bias. Our simulation results indicate a reduction of approximately 75% to complete elimination of the LOD score inflation while maintaining the information content (IC) when setting a tolerable squared correlation coefficient LD threshold (r2) above 0.3 for or 2 SNPs per cM using MT. We have established a theoretical basis of how inflated IBD information among dense markers overestimates a NPL statistic. The two-step processing strategy serves as a useful framework to systematically evaluate relative performance of different methods to handle LD.
Nucleic acid synthesis in the normal and lobeless embryo of Ilyanassa obsoleta

Abstract The RNA and DNA content of the normal and lobeless embryo of the Ilyanassa embryo was measured at several stages of embryogenesis. In the lobeless embryo a delay in the net accumulation of RNA and a decrease in the rate of DNA synthesis were observed. It is suggested that the failure of some of the lobe dependent organs to differentiate may be caused by a reduced rate of proliferation of determined embryonic cells.
New method to measure the source and drain resistance of the GaAs MESFET

The method to measure the source resistance of the GaAs MESFET proposed here is able to determine its value directly without correcting for the channel resistance of the GaAs MESFET. A low gate current measurement condition is employed which leads to accurate determination of R s and R d over a relatively wide range of drain currents.
Exploring variant definitions of pointer length in MDL

Within the information-theoretical framework described by (Rissanen, 1989; de Marcken, 1996; Goldsmith, 2001), pointers are used to avoid repetition of phonological material. Work with which we are familiar has assumed that there is only one way in which items could be pointed to. The purpose of this paper is to describe and compare several different methods, each of which satisfies MDL's basic requirements, but which have different consequences for the treatment of linguistic phenomena. In particular, we assess the conditions under which these different ways of pointing yield more compact descriptions of the data, both from a theoretical and an empirical perspective.
Linear response study of strong electron-phonon coupling in yttrium under pressure

Linear response methods are applied to identify the increase in electron-phonon coupling in elemental yttrium that is responsible for its high superconducting critical temperature ${T}_{c}$, which reaches nearly $20\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ at $115\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{GPa}$. While the evolution of the band structure and density of states is smooth and seemingly modest, there is strong increase in the $4d$ content of the occupied conduction states under pressure. We find that the transverse mode near the $L$ point of the fcc Brillouin zone, already soft at ambient pressure, becomes unstable (in harmonic approximation) at a relative volume $V∕{V}_{0}=0.60$ $(P\ensuremath{\approx}42\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{GPa})$. The coupling to transverse branches is relatively strong at all high-symmetry zone boundary points $X$, $K$, and $L$. Coupling to the longitudinal branches is not as strong, but extends over more regions of the Brillouin zone and involves higher frequencies. Evaluation of the electron-phonon spectral function ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{2}F(\ensuremath{\omega})$ shows a very strong increase with pressure of coupling in the $2--8\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{meV}$ range, with a steady increase also in the $8--20\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{meV}$ range. These results demonstrates strong electron-phonon coupling in this system that can account for the observed range of ${T}_{c}$.
Direct measurement of fast axonal organelle transport in the sciatic nerve of rats treated with acrylamide.

The effects of acrylamide on fast axonal transport have been measured primarily using the indirect methods of isotope or enzyme accumulation. We report the first direct evaluation of the effects of subchronic acrylamide dosing (150, 300, or 500 mg/kg total dose, i.e., 50 mg/kg, 2x/wk, for 1.5, 3, 5 wk, respectively) on the fast axonal transport motility machinery itself using video-enhanced differential interference contrast optics with digital image processing and computer analysis. Four principle observations were made: (1) Rapid anterograde transport was not affected at any dosage level within 1 wk after cessation of dosing. (2) A high cumulative dosage (500 mg/kg total) of acrylamide or bisacrylamide produced approximately 7-18% decrease in the rate of retrograde transport in both myelinated and unmyelinated axons. (3) Lower dosages of acrylamide (150 or 300 mg/kg total) produced an increase in retrograde transport rates in myelinated axons only. (4) During the "recovery" phase for the 500 mg/kg acrylamide animals (i.e., 3 or 5 wk after the last dosage of acrylamide) the rate of anterograde transport in the myelinated axons was decreased at 3 wk but not at 5 wk, and the rate of retrograde transport in the myelinated axons returned to control levels while the retrograde transport in the unmyelinated axons continued at abnormally slow speeds. The application of this new technique to evaluate the neurotoxic effects of acrylamide provides evidence of dynamic changes in the axonal transport motility machinery itself and differential effects on myelinated versus unmyelinated fibers.
Hypersonic Vehicle Air Data Collection: Assessing the Relationship Between the Sensor and Guidance and Control System Requirements

The relationship between the air data system and the flight guidance and control (G&C) system design requirements which assure proper trajectory management of air-breathing hypersonic vehicles is explored. The type and precision of on-board state measurements dictated by G&C operations are characterized. Candidate procedures for their measurement are examined including assessment of likely sensor technologies as well as models required to extract desired environment states from actual sensor measurements. Data integration schemes which allow efficient merging of overlapping information from dissimilar sensors (e.g. inertial devices and direct environment measurements) are proposed, and the implications that the resulting state measurement processes will have on G&C avionics and software architecture are considered.
A survey of movies on crystal growth

Abstract Movies provide a uniquely accurate and complete means of recording and communicating crystal growth research data. Unfortunately, there is at present no means of including such movies in the scientific literature or of making their existence known to the scientific community as a whole. The present survey describes 78 movies, most of which contain original observations of crystal growth phenomenology. In addition, recommendations are made for improving the effectiveness of such movies and for publishing abstracts of future movies or of those inadvertantly omitted from the present survey.
Why Are Women More Religious Than Men? by Marta Trzebiatowska and Steve Bruce, Oxford University Press: Oxford, 2013, viii + 205pp. ISBN 978 0 19 960810 2, US$45.00 (hardback); ISBN 0199608105, US$44.99 (e-book)

Posing a question as the title of one's book is a dangerous thing to do; readers will pick it up expecting answers. If the answers are too simple, readers will wonder why a whole book is necessary ...
Impact of Insurance Coverage on the Use an Effects of Smoking Cessation Medications

Tobacco use is not only the chief preventable cause of death, but it is also a very important contributor to the cause or complications of most chronic diseases. Therefore, facilitating smoking cessation should be very important to more effective disease management. Well-accepted, evidence-based guidelines describe effective clinical actions in support of smoking cessation; however, they are not followed as well as desired. This article focuses on the question of whether health insurance coverage for cessation medications (one of the effective actions) is important for their use and effectiveness. Although there have been accelerating calls from advocates for this coverage and a parallel increase in health plans and government programs providing such coverage, the evidence base is both recent and limited. Three major studies now suggest that coverage or cost sharing may only be effective when combined with extraordinary efforts to ensure that smokers are aware of the benefit and can access it easily. However, it is unclear whether many payors are willing to do that. Chronic disease management programs should definitely be focusing on whatever they can do to encourage smoking cessation. There is good evidence that repeated advice and support (and pharmacotherapy) from a variety of healthcare professionals is effective, especially when it is combined with the other care that patients receive. Since few other patient behaviors contribute as much to the causes and complications of most chronic diseases, great emphasis should be placed on changing this one.
Invasion of natural and agricultural cranberry bogs by introduced and native plants

Plant species invasions, i.e., the entry of additional plant species into a habitat with negative effects on species already there, are a major ecological problem in natural habitats and a major economic problem in agricultural habitats. Nutrient availability, disturbance, and proximity to other habitats are likely factors that may interact to control invasion in both types of habitat. We hypothesized (1) that elevated nutrient availability can promote the abundance of introduced species even when high cover of the existing plant community is maintained, and (2) that higher levels of invasion on the edges than in the interiors of habitats are due to differences in resource availability between edges and interiors. To test these hypotheses, we measured soil characteristics and the abundances of plant species in natural and agricultural cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) bogs in southeastern Massachusetts. Contrary to the first hypothesis, agricultural bogs did not have higher cover or richness of introduced species than natural bogs, despite having higher levels of soil nutrients. Contrary to the second hypothesis, the edges of both agricultural and natural bogs had a higher cover and richness of introduced species than the interiors, even though only natural bogs showed differences in resource availabilities between edges and interiors. Results suggest that having a high cover of existing species can counter positive effects of elevated nutrients on the spread of introduced and non-crop species. However, maintaining similar resource availabilities on the edges and interiors of habitats may not prevent greater invasion of edges. Avoiding disturbances to natural communities, maintaining high crop cover, and focusing active control of introduced or non-crop species on the edges of habitats could help limit plant invasions into natural and agricultural habitats alike.
Comparison of Cardioprotective Benefits of Vigorous Versus Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic fitness, not merely physical activity, is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Vigorous intensity exercise has been shown to increase aerobic fitness more effectively than moderate intensity exercise, suggesting that the former may confer greater cardioprotective benefits. An electronic search of published studies using PubMed was conducted for 2 types of investigations, epidemiologic studies that evaluated the benefits of physical activity of varying intensity levels and clinical trials that trained individuals at different intensities of exercise while controlling for the total energy expenditure. A secondary search was conducted using the references from these studies. The epidemiologic studies consistently found a greater reduction in risk of cardiovascular disease with vigorous (typically ≥6 METs) than with moderate intensity physical activity and reported more favorable risk profiles for individuals engaged in vigorous, as opposed to moderate, intensity physical activity. Clinical trials generally reported greater improvements after vigorous (typically ≥60% aerobic capacity) compared with moderate intensity exercise for diastolic blood pressure, glucose control, and aerobic capacity, but reported no intensity effect on improvements in systolic blood pressure, lipid profile, or body fat loss. In conclusion, if the total energy expenditure of exercise is held constant, exercise performed at a vigorous intensity appears to convey greater cardioprotective benefits than exercise of a moderate intensity.
Studies on a multifunctional actuation system for lightweight space applications

This paper presents results of ongoing research on a multifunctional actuation system wherein the strength-giving members of a small, planar, lightweight space structure also enable actuation for purposes such as shape control and steering. The configuration currently being studied includes a circular membrane with a circumferential waveguide/conductor, which also serves as a stiffener. The waveguide is end-excited by a ceramic piezoelectric microactuator. The goal of this research is to investigate the dynamic response characteristics of this system. In this paper, a theoretical model for the overall dynamics is outlined, and a few general results are presented. Experimental results aimed at studying the transient response and steady-state response characteristics of the system (and obtained using an optical profiler with dynamic measurement capability) are also included. Potential configuration changes to improve the transient and steady-state response are discussed.
Digoxin activates sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-release channels: a possible role in cardiac inotropy

Abstract 1. The effect of digoxin on rapid 45Ca2+ efflux from cardiac and skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles was investigated. Additionally the interaction of digoxin with single cardiac and skeletal muscle SR Ca(2+)-release channels incorporated into planar phospholipid bilayers and held under voltage clamp was determined. 2. Digoxin (1 nM) increased the initial rate and amount of Ca(2+)-induced release of 45Ca2+ from cardiac SR vesicles, passively loaded with 45CaCl2, at an extravesicular [Ca2+] of 0.1 microM. The efflux in the presence and absence of digoxin was inhibited at pM extravesicular Ca2+ and blocked by 5 mM Mg2+. 3. To elucidate the mechanism of action of digoxin, single-channel recording was used. Digoxin (1-20 nM) increased single-channel open probability (Po) when added to the cytosolic but not the luminal face of the cardiac channel in the presence of sub-maximally activating Ca2+ (0.1 microM-10 microM) with an EC50 of 0.91 nM at 10 microM Ca2+. The mechanisms underlying the action of digoxin appear to be concentration-dependent. The activation observed at 1 nM digoxin appears to be consistent with the sensitization of the channel to the effects of Ca2+. At higher concentrations the drug appears to interact synergistically with Ca2+ to produce values of Po considerably greater than those seen with Ca2+ as the sole activating ligand. 4. Digoxin had no effect on single-channel conductance or the Ca2+/Tris permeability ratio. In channels activated by digoxin the Po was decreased by Mg2+.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Biosynthesis of the fifth component of complement (C5) by human fetal tissues.

Abstract Tissues isolated from human fetuses as early as 9 wk gestation synthesized the fifth component of complement (C5). Production of biologically active C5 was temperature dependent, reversibly inhibited by cycloheximide, and was accompanied by incorporation of 14C-labeled amino acids into C5 protein. Significant C5 production was detected in cultures of liver, lung, and small intestine.
Production of muon-meson atoms in ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions.

Ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions should produce hydrogen-atom-like Coulomb bound states of muons and mesons. Such atoms could provide a convenient way to measure the muon momentum distribution. We estimate the production rate of pion-muon atoms expected from heavy-ion colliders.
Guanylate Cyclase C Deficiency Causes Severe Inflammation in a Murine Model of Spontaneous Colitis

Background Guanylate Cyclase C (GC-C; Gucy2c) is a transmembrane receptor expressed in intestinal epithelial cells. Activation of GC-C by its secreted ligand guanylin stimulates intestinal fluid secretion. Familial mutations in GC-C cause chronic diarrheal disease or constipation and are associated with intestinal inflammation and infection. Here, we investigated the impact of GC-C activity on mucosal immune responses. Methods We utilized intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide to elicit a systemic cytokine challenge and then measured pro-inflammatory gene expression in colonic mucosa. GC-C(+/+) and GC-C(-/-) mice were bred with interleukin (IL)-10 deficient animals and colonic inflammation were assessed. Immune cell influx and cytokine/chemokine expression was measured in the colon of wildtype, IL-10(-/-), GC-C(+/+)IL-10(-/-) and GC-C(-/-)IL-10(-/-) mice. GC-C and guanylin production were examined in the colon of these animals and in a cytokine-treated colon epithelial cell line. Results Relative to GC-C(+/+) animals, intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide injection into GC-C(-/-) mice increased proinflammatory gene expression in both whole colon tissue and in partially purified colonocyte isolations. Spontaneous colitis in GC-C(-/-)IL-10(-/-) animals was significantly more severe relative to GC-C(+/+)IL-10(-/-) mice. Unlike GC-C(+/+)IL-10(-/-) controls, colon pathology in GC-C(-/-)IL-10(-/-) animals was apparent at an early age and was characterized by severely altered mucosal architecture, crypt abscesses, and hyperplastic subepithelial lesions. F4/80 and myeloperoxidase positive cells as well as proinflammatory gene expression were elevated in GC-C(-/-)IL-10(-/-) mucosa relative to control animals. Guanylin was diminished early in colitis in vivo and tumor necrosis factor α suppressed guanylin mRNA and protein in intestinal goblet cell-like HT29-18-N2 cells. Conclusions The GC-C signaling pathway blunts colonic mucosal inflammation that is initiated by systemic cytokine burst or loss of mucosal immune cell immunosuppression. These data as well as the apparent intestinal inflammation in human GC-C mutant kindred underscore the importance of GC-C in regulating the response to injury and inflammation within the gut.
Recurrent primary cardiac malignant fibrous histiocytoma following orthotopic heart transplantation

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is an extremely rare primary cardiac tumor. We describe a young patient who underwent orthotopic heart transplantation for an unresectable right ventricular MFH and presented 7 years later with a local recurrence in the native right atrium. This was treated by complete resection of the right atrial tumor and adjuvant chemotherapy. This case represents the only reported long-term survival following cardiac transplantation for MFH and describes our management strategy for local recurrence in this patient.
Cellular studies of mammary tissue from cows hormonally induced into lactation: lactose and fatty acid synthesis.

Abstract Temporal changes in ability of mammary gland to synthesize lactose and fatty acids were identified during the treatment of cows hormonally induced to lactate, and animal differences were compared to subsequent milk production. Hormonal treatment involved 17 β -estradiol + progesterone on days 1 to 7 and dexamethasone on days 17 to 19. Mammary tissue obtained by biopsy on days 0, 8, 16, and 26 of treatment was examined for biosynthetic capacity by tissue slice incubations. In terms of peak daily milk yield, one cow was very successful (>30kg), two were intermediate (9 to 10kg), and one cow was unsuccessful (
Helicase structures: a new twist on DNA unwinding

The crystal structures of two members of the SF1 family of helicases, Rep and PcrA, and one member of the SF2 family of helicases, the HCV RNA helicase, have recently been solved. These structures illuminate the roles of the conserved helicase motifs in catalytic function and offer clues as to how these proteins can translocate along DNA.
Male and female sexual responses in male rats given estradiol benzoate and 5 alpha-androstan-17 beta-ol-3-one propionate.

Varying doses of estradiol benzoate (EB) were injected systemically into sexually experienced, castrated, male rats. The daily EB injections were given in combination with dihydrotestosterone propionate (DHTP, 125 µg/rat/ day). This dose of DHTP is, by itself, ineffective in activating male behavior, but effective in stimulating growth of penile “spines.” At dose levels of 0.5 ng or 10 µg/rat, EB activated mounting with thrusting and intromission. At 167 ng/rat, EB activated the complete male copulatory pattern, including ejaculation. In addition to displaying male behavior, the EB plus DHTP-treated rats displayed lordosis. Percentages of animals showing lordosis were 50, 86 and 93 for the 0.5, 10 and 167 µg EB dosage groups, respectively. Testosterone propionate (TP, 150 µg/day/rat) administered in combination with DHTP (125 µg/ rat/day) activated complete male copulatory patterns in castrated males, but only 9% of such males displayed lordosis. Additionally, 0 of 20 intact, untreated males displayed lor...
Enantiospecific Synthesis of N-Boc-Adda: A Linear Approach

Synthesis of the unusual amino acid (2S,3S,8S,9S)-3-amino-9-methoxy-2,6,8-trimethyl-10-phenyl-4,6-decadienoic acid (Adda), a unit of numerous cyanobacterial toxins, is described. Construction of the target molecule was achieved in 13 steps with an overall yield of 40%. The work is highlighted by a novel one-pot transformation from isoxazolidin-5-one intermediate 6 to the final product, a step that can also be used to form β-amino acids.
Smart magnetically responsive hydrogel nanoparticles prepared by a novel aerosol-assisted method for biomedical and drug delivery applications

We have developed a novel spray gelation-based method to synthesize a new series of magnetically responsive hydrogel nanoparticles for biomedical and drug delivery applications. The method is based on the production of hydrogel nanoparticles from sprayed polymeric microdroplets obtained by an air-jet nebulization process that is immediately followed by gelation in a crosslinking fluid. Oligoguluronate (G-blocks) was prepared through the partial acid hydrolysis of sodium alginate. PEG-grafted chitosan was also synthesized and characterized (FTIR, EA, and DSC). Then, magnetically responsive hydrogel nanoparticles based on alginate and alginate/G-blocks were synthesized via aerosolization followed by either ionotropic gelation or both ionotropic and polyelectrolyte complexation using CaCl2 or PEG-g-chitosan/CaCl2 as crosslinking agents, respectively. Particle size and dynamic swelling were determined using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and microscopy. Surface morphology of the nanoparticles was examined using SEM. The distribution of magnetic cores within the hydrogels nanoparticles was also examined using TEM. In addition, the iron and calciumcontents of the particles were estimated using EDS. Sphericalmagnetic hydrogel nanoparticles with average particle size of 811 ± 162 to 941 ± 2 nm were obtained. This study showed that the developed method is promising for the manufacture of hydrogel nanoparticles, and it represents a relatively simple and potential low-cost system.
Quality-of-Life Improvement After Free Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Smile Restoration in Patients With Facial Paralysis

ImportanceFacial paralysis can contribute to disfigurement, psychological difficulties, and an inability to convey emotion via facial expression. In patients unable to perform a meaningful smile, f...
The determination of q sub 0 using X-ray and microwave observations of galaxy clusters

We show that X-ray and microwave observations of the hot gas in a rich cluster of galaxies can be combined to give a direct and model-free measurement of the angular diameter distance to the cluster. Such observations thus provide an evolution-independent global method for the determination of both H/sub o/ and q/sub o/. As long as the intracluster gas is reasonably homogeneous and the effects of discrete sources can be subtracted, the method is limited by the accuracy of the observations rather than by any inherent dispersion in cluster properties. The observations required to obtain q/sub o/ are feasible, but at the limit of present techniques.
The geminal molecular structure of the compound N3P3Cl4(NCS)2

Abstract The compound, N 3 P 3 Cl 4 (NCS) 2 , was prepared and characterized by i.r., mass and 31 P NMR spectroscopy. I.R. data indicated that each thiocyanate moiety is nitrogen-bonded to a phosphorus atom in the ring. A geminal molecular structure was assigned on the basis of 31 P NMR data. Several alcohol and amine addition derivatives of the compound gem -N 3 P 3 Cl 4 (NCS) 2 were also prepared. The addition compounds were characterized by infrared and 31 P NMR spectroscopy. Geminal molecular structures were assigned to these adducts on the basis of their 31 P NMR spectra.