cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Peptide-YY levels after a fat load in black and white women.

Objective: To determine whether basal plasma peptide-YY (PYY) levels in overweight, middle-aged black women are different from those of white women of similar BMI and age and ascertain whether there is a difference between the two groups in plasma PYY levels in response to a liquid high fat load. Research Methods and Procedures: Using a commercial radioimmunoassay kit, the concentration of PYY was measured at baseline and at 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours after ingesting a fatty liquid meal (86.5% of the calories from fat) in 12 black and 12 white women who were matched for age and BMI. Results: PYY levels (picograms per milliliter) at baseline and at every other time-point of the test meal were significantly lower in the black than in the white group. In addition, the change in PYY concentration from baseline was lower in the black than in the white group only at 8 hours after the meal. Discussion: The lower baseline level and the blunted PYY response of the black women to the fat load indicated that this signal for appetite suppression was reduced, which, in turn, might contribute to the enhanced obesity of the black women.
Decontamination of DDT-polluted soil by soil washing/cloud point extraction

A soil washing/cloud point extraction technique was used for the decontamination of soil polluted with DDT. Soil samples spiked with DDT were washed with 3% and 5% nonionic detergent solutions, consisting of a mixture of Igepal ICO-630 and Triton X-114. The results showed that a 2-h washing period with a 5% detergent solution, and a 3-h period with a 3% detergent solution, removed practically all DDT from the soil. Extraction efficiencies depended on the surfactant concentration and the volume of washing liquid. The cloud point of the extraction medium was 34°C, and clouding experiments succeeded in extracting >93% of the DDT in the washing solution into the surfactant (coacervate) phase. The method holds promise for large scale treatment of contaminated soils.
Design and analysis of trials of salvage therapy in acute myelogenous leukemia.

Results obtained with a given regimen in relapsed or refractory acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) are variable. This often reflects variability in patient selection. We have developed a system to account for such variability that stratifies patients with refractory or relapsed AML into four groups: group 1, first complete response (CR) duration ≥ 2 years and receiving first salvage treatment (S1); group 2, first CR duration 1–2 years and receiving S1; group 3, first CR duration 0–1 years and receiving S1; and group 4, first CR duration 0–1 years and receiving S2, S3, or S4 after failing S1. CR rates achieved in the four groups are 73%, 47%, 14%, and 0, respectively. This system is useful for comparing results obtained with different therapies and for assigning patients to treatment. At our institution, patients in group 4 are enrolled in phase I studies, and phase I1/2 – II studies are carried out separately in patients in groups 2, 3, and 4. A phase I1/2 study refers to one in which the intent is to select for phase II therapies emerging from phase I trial results. The design is Bayesian, and although false-negative rates are relatively high, they are lower than those obtained if a drug for phase II testing is arbitrarily selected.
THE APPLICATION OF TECHNETIUM‐99m HEXAMETHYLPROPYLENEAMINE OXIME (99mTc‐HMPAO) LABELED WHITE BLOOD CELLS FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF RIGHT DORSAL ULCERATIVE COLITIS IN TWO HORSES

The application of 99mTc-HMPAO labeled white blood cells to support the diagnosis of right dorsal ulcerative colitis was studied in two horses with a history and clinical signs consistent with phenylbutazone toxicity. These images were compared to a reference horse unaffected by right dorsal ulcerative colitis. Blood was collected aseptically in heparinized syringes from the patients for in vitro white blood cell (WBC) radiolabeling. The buffy coat was separated out and radiolabeled with 99mTc-HMPAO. The radiolabeled blood was re-injected i.v. and four images of the right and left side of the patient's abdomen were acquired at 4 hours and 20 hours post-injection. Results of the nuclear study revealed no abnormal findings in the abdomen at the four-hour post-injection images in any horse. Images obtained 20 hours post-injection revealed a linear uptake of radiolabeled WBCs in the right cranioventral abdomen in the region of the right dorsal colon in both horses with right dorsal ulcerative colitis. The reference horse had no radiopharmaceutical uptake in this region. This nuclear imaging study was a rapid, non-invasive method to identify right dorsal colon inflammation. These findings not only supported the diagnosis of right dorsal ulcerative colitis, but also facilitated appropriate medical management of each horse.
A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Short-Term Graded Transdermal Estradiol in Healthy Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist-Suppressed Pre- and Postmenopausal Women: Effects on Serum Markers of Bone Turnover, Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I, and Osteoclastogenic Mediators

The acute effects of estradiol on procollagen type 1 formation in pre- and postmenopausal women are controversial. Twenty-three premenopausal women and 13 postmenopausal women received two consecutive im injections of 3.75 mg leuprolide acetate 3 wk apart to block endogenous ovarian steroidogenesis. Transdermal estradiol therapy commenced on the night of the second leuprolide injection in all subjects, except five pre- and two postmenopausal women who were randomized to receive placebo patches. Estradiol therapy was applied incrementally, with each dose of 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 mg/d administered for 4 consecutive days, to mimic the estradiol changes typifying the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Blood aminoterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP), intact osteocalcin (OC), carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTx), IGF-I, and estradiol were measured before and at the end of each estradiol increment. Potential mediators such as osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclea...
An Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensor for Point of Care Viral Diagnostics

The use of in vitro diagnostic devices is transitioning from the laboratory to the primary care setting to address early disease detection needs. Time critical viral diagnoses are often made without support due to the experimental time required in today's standard tests. Available rapid point of care (POC) viral tests are less reliable, requiring a follow-on confirmatory test before conclusions can be drawn. The development of a reliable POC viral test for the primary care setting would decrease the time for diagnosis leading to a lower chance of transmission and improve recovery. The single particle interferometric reflectance imaging sensor (SP-IRIS) has been shown to be a sensitive and specific-detection platform in serum and whole blood. This paper presents a step towards a POC viral assay through a SP-IRIS prototype with automated data acquisition and analysis and a simple, easy-to-use software interface. Decreasing operation complexity highlights the potential of SP-IRIS as a sensitive and specific POC diagnostic tool. With the integration of a microfluidic cartridge, this automated instrument will allow an untrained user to run a sample-to-answer viral assay in the POC setting.
Analytic modeling of network processors for parallel workload mapping

Network processors are heterogeneous system-on-chip multiprocessors that are optimized to perform packet forwarding and processing tasks at Gigabit data rates. To meet the performance demands of increasing link speeds and complex network applications, network processors are implemented with several dozen embedded processor cores and hardware accelerators that run multiple packet processing applications in parallel. The parallel nature of the processing system makes it increasingly difficult for application developers to understand and manage resources and map processing tasks to the hardware. To address this problem, we present a methodology for profiling and analyzing network processor applications, mapping processing tasks to a generalized network processor architecture, and analytically determining the expected throughput performance. The key novelty of this work is not only the adaptation of application analysis and mapping algorithms to heterogeneous network processors, but also that the entire process can be automated and hidden from the application developer. Starting with the analysis of a uniprocessor implementation of the application, the process yields a mapping of the partitioned application that shows best performance for a given network processor system. The simplicity of the proposed randomized mapping algorithm allows the use of this methodology in network processor runtime systems where dynamic reallocation of tasks is necessary but processing power is limited. We present results that show the effectiveness of the analysis and mapping methodology as well as its application to design space exploration.
Reconfigurability in planetary surface vehicles

Abstract Traditionally, space systems have been built for fixed requirements and optimized for highest performance. Future systems for human exploration of Moon and Mars, however, require focus on new architectural strategies geared towards increased affordability and survivability in addition to performance. Reconfigurability is a new paradigm in system design that enhances these qualities. Reconfigurable systems can attain different states with new or modified capabilities, as required with changing needs, over time. Such systems can lower mission costs through mass savings by efficient use of a fixed set of hardware for multiple functions. Their survivability is improved through their ability to reconfigure into different states so that some level of over-all functionality is retained. This study, with a focus on planetary surface vehicles, presents a methodology for determining optimal designs of reconfigurable systems. It also proposes metrics for assessing the impact of reconfigurability. It is found that for the specific scenario considered, the mass utilization efficiency in a fleet of reconfigurable vehicles is increased by 27% while the survivability can be increased by a factor of 3.
Two-dimensional poly(acrylamide) electrophoresis of fluoresceinated glycopeptides. Resolution and structural characterization of ovalbumin glycans.

Abstract The microheterogeneous mixture of fluoresceinated glycopeptides (FGPs) obtained from the single site of glycosylation of chicken ovalbumin was resolved by a combination of discontinuous electrophoresis in a high-density poly(acrylamide) gel (PAGE) for sizing, in conjunction with borate-PAGE. Two FGPs of similar size but with different mobilities in borate-PAGE were purified and characterized by sequential exoglycosidase digestion and sizing on the discontinuous PAGE system, as well as by methylation analysis. The two FGPs of identical size are distinct and have structures β- d -Glc p NAc-(1 → 2)-α- d -Man p -(1 → 3)-[β- d -Glc p NAc-(1 → 4)]-[β- D -Glc p NAc-(1 → 2)-α- D -Man p -(1 → 6)]-β- d -Man p -(1 → 4)-β- d -Glc p NAc-(1→ 4)-β- d -Glc p NAc-1 → R and α- d -Man p -(1 → 2)-α- d -Man p -(1 → 3 or 6)-{α- d -Man p -(1 → 3)-[α- d -Man p -(1 → 6)]-α- d -Man p -(1 → 6 or 3)}-β- d -Man p -(1 → 4)-β- d -Glc p NAc-(1 → 4)-β- d -Glc p NAc-1 → R (R = Asn-(amino acids)-fluorescein). The results demonstrate that two-dimensional PAGE is applicable to the separation and characterization of complex mixtures of FGPs. The procedure is rapid, sensitive, and convenient for glycopeptide mapping, and for the purification and structural characterization of glycans. Furthermore, the FGPs can be characterized with affinity matrices, such as lectins, and by methylation analysis.
Differential mortality in male and female gypsy moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) pupae by invertebrate natural enemies and other factors

Pupal mortality in the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), caused by invertebrate natural enemies and other factors was monitored at Belleplain State Forest in southern New Jersey from 1983 to 1991. Two methods were used, laboratory rearings of intact pupae field collected during metamorphosis and postseason examination of pupal remains. The introduced chalcidid Brachymeria intermedia (Nees) consistently destroyed higher percentages of male gypsy moth pupae than female pupae. lchneumonid parasitism was sometimes higher in male pupae than female pupae. Diptera, mostly Tachinidae and Sarcophagidae, were more likely to emerge from female than male intact pupae, but in the case of pupal remains, emergence from each sex was variable, being significantly higher in male pupae than female pupae for 2 yr, but the reverse in another year. Sex-based bias in predation of gypsy moth pupae by invertebrates, primarily larvae of Calosoma sycophanta (L.), was observed only in 2 yr, when it was slightly higher in male pupae. Incidence of disease was higher in female pupae than male pupae, but desiccation was more likely to occur in male pupae than female pupae. Based on examination of pupal remains, survival of female and male pupae averaged 53.0 and 45.5%, respectively, with marked differences observed in 5 of 9 yr of the study. Because of the sex-based bias in mortality by some invertebrate natural enemies, sex ratios (expressed as percentage of females) of gypsy moth adults were sometimes much higher than pupae. This bias was most noticeable during the outbreak and decline phases of the gypsy moth population cycle.
Introduction to translational initiation factors and their regulation by phosphorylation

Abstract Regulation of gene expression frequently involves translational controls that operate at the level of the initiation phase. Initiation of protein synthesis in eukaryotes is promoted by greater than 10 initiation factors. Important among these are initiation factors eIF-2 and eIF-2B, which stimulate methionyl-tRNA binding to 40S ribosomal subunits, and eIF-4A, eIF-4B and eIF-4F, which stimulate mRNA binding. Many of the initiation factors are phosphorylated in vivo, and phosphorylation has been shown to regulate rates of global protein synthesis. Phosphorylation of eIF-2 on its α-subunit results in repression of translation by interfering with the recycling of the factor. Phosphorylation of eIF-4F on its α- and γ-subunits activates this limiting initiation factor and stimulates protein synthesis. Other initiation factor activities may also be regulated by phosphorylation, but these have not yet been characterized in detail. Regulating the translational activity of the cell by phosphorylation appears to be important in virus-infected cells and in the control of cell proliferation.
Perspectives From Mathematics Education

I will admit to initial astonishment at the results of the study of gender differences in mathematical thinking. Nothing in the literature prepared me for such significant differences in children so young. My thoughts were best sorted out as responses to three questions: What could be the underlying causes for the differences in strategy use (if indeed the differences are not just a fluke)? Would such differences really matter in terms of mathematical development? If such differences exist in a wider population, what are the implications?
Prosody in Skilled Silent Reading: Evidence from Eye Movements.

Recent eye movement experiments offer preliminary evidence that skilled readers activate word-level prosodic information when silently reading sentences. This paper reviews the role of eye movements during reading as well as the preliminary evidence for prosodic processing. A new experiment examines whether prosodic processing differs for high and low frequency words. Readers' eye movements were monitored while reading target words presented in sentences preceded by parafoveal previews that either contained the exact initial syllable of the target (i.e. the congruent preview condition) or the initial syllable plus the next letter (i.e. the incongruent preview condition). Reading times on high frequency words did not differ in the congruent and incongruent preview conditions, but reading times on low frequency words were faster in the congruent condition. The implications of the present result and previous studies are discussed in terms of phonological hub theory, which is a production-based theory of word recognition during skilled silent reading.
Mild pediatric traumatic brain injury: adjusting significance levels for multiple comparisons

The outcome following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is controversial. We addressed this topic in a study of neurobehavioural and 'real-world' functioning among 53 children with mild TBI and their matched controls, using statistical methods recently developed for multiple comparisons. Because the study involved calculation of 414 p-values, four methods of adjustment for multiple comparisons, including the Bonferroni method, were used to avoid 'false-positive' statistical significance. The additional three methods allowed greater insight into the data than provided by the standard Bonferroni adjustment. Results showed that at initial testing, three areas of 'real-world' functioning (eating, domestic and home/community living skills) had weak but statistically significant associations with mild injury. No other specific areas of neuro-behavioural or 'real-world' functioning had plausible associations with the injury either initially, at 1 year, or when changes over the year were considered. However, the adjustment for multiple comparisons provided additional results. There were statistical significant associations of the injury with the entire domain of neurobehavioural variables both initially and at 1 year. These results suggest that the injury affects a spectrum of neurobehavioural skills weakly, rather than a single area substantially. The gain from using multiple comparison methods is discussed.
Approximation methods and the computer numerically controlled fabrication of optical surfaces

In this paper we consider an approximation theoretic approach to the computer numerically controlled manufacturing of optical studies. Given the kinematic parameters defining a grinding/polishing tool, we develop an expression for the associated material removal rate. Knowing this, and assuming descriptions of the tool center path and speed, we can then derive a general formula for the amount of material removed at a point on the workpiece by the machine. The final phase of the analysis centers on the determination of strategies for tool center movement so as to achieve a desired pattern of material removal. We discuss two means of formulating such a strategy. The first involves the use of constrained best discrete Lp approximation problems, which for p equals 1,2 can be solved by linear and quadratic programming methods. The second employs the notion of a mollifier or smoothing function and avoids the need for discretization. The results of some computational experiments based on the above methods are included.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Radiations emitted in the decay of 165Er: a promising medical radionuclide.

The 10.3-h /sup 165/Er, decaying by electron capture to stable /sup 165/Ho, offers an excellent promise for use in diagnostic nuclear medicine, especially in conjuction with multiwire proportional-counter cameras. Using an ultra-high-resolution Si(Li) photon spectrometer, L and K x-ray photon yields in /sup 165/Er decay have been measured. The ratio P/sub L//P/sub K/ of electron-capture probabilities in L and K shells is determined to be 0.196 +- 0.030, in good agreement with theory. Estimates of Auger electron yields and yields of very-low-energy electrons from Coster--Kronig transitions are presented. Levels of /sup 169/Er and /sup 171/Er radioactive impurities in the reactor-produced /sup 165/Er sample are experimentally determined. Whole-body dose estimates for /sup 165/Er are given. These compare favorably with /sup 99/Tc dose.
Ancient versus reticulate origin of a hemiclonal lineage

Abstract Crossing experiments revealed that a diploid hybridogenetic fish (genus Poeciliopsis) from the Rio Mocorito (Sinaloa, Mexico) is trihybrid. Its haploid maternal genome is inherited clonally (i.e., hemiclonally), and it expresses a mixture of morphological traits found in the closely related species P. monacha and P. viriosa. Its haploid paternal genome is replaced in each generation by mating with males of a more distantly related sexual species, P. lucida. However, expression of mixed (monacha × viriosa) traits by this hemiclone is also consistent with retention of shared ancestral polymorphisms. If true, this hemiclonal lineage would be one of the few examples of an ancient asexual taxon. We used mitochondrial DNA and allozymes to test whether the maternal progenitor of the Mocorito hybridogen was a recent P. monacha × P. viriosa hybrid or a remnant of their most recent common ancestor. Our results clearly link the hemiclonal genome to contemporary P. monacha and therefore support the hypothesi...
Reduced dimensionality control for the ACT hand

Redundant tendon-driven systems such as the human hand or the ACT robotic hand are high-dimensional and nonlinear systems that make traditional control strategies ineffective. The synergy hypothesis from neuroscience suggests that employing dimensionality reduction techniques can simplify the system without a major loss in function. We define a dimensionality reduction framework consisting of separate observation and activation synergies, a first-order model, and an optimal controller. The framework is implemented for two example tasks: adaptive control of thumb posture and hybrid position/force control to enable dynamic handwriting.
Measuring the Magnetic Field Strength in L1498 with Zeeman-splitting Observations of CCS

We have measured the Zeeman splitting of the CCS JN = 32-21 line at 33 GHz toward L1498, a dense preprotostellar core, in an effort to measure the line-of-sight component of its magnetic field. With approximately 35 hr of data on source (70 hr total) in good weather, the data suggest a line-of-sight component of the magnetic field in L1498 of 48 ± 31 μG, yielding an upper limit of Blos < 100 μG at the 95% confidence level. This upper limit provides some constraints on models. Our results show that the technique we have adopted to measure CCS Zeeman splitting holds great promise for determining magnetic field strengths in cloud cores using lower-frequency transitions, in particular the CCS JN = 10-00 line at 11 GHz. At this transition, the frequency splitting per gauss is 3 times that at 33 GHz, the brightness temperature is comparable to the 32-21 line, and receiver systems can be made more sensitive.
A simple assay of mammalian pineal extracts.

Summary(1) The African toad (Xenopus laevis) responds to the injection of pineal extract by a contraction of melanophores, in a manner similar to that previously described for amphibian tadpoles, prior to metamorphosis. This response is suggested as the basis for a simple assay of mammalian pineal body. (2) Preliminary chemical studies suggest that the melanophore contracting substance is a relatively stable, low molecular weight compound.‡
COMBUSTION RANDOMNESS AND DIESEL ENGINE NOISE: THEORY AND INITIAL EXPERIMENTS

Abstract Theoretical reasoning and preliminary experimental results show that the cycle to cycle variations in the turbulent combustion process in a Diesel engine are responsible for a substantial amount of noise radiated from the engine. These results shown that a new interpretation is required of past results which have compared the cylinder pressure spectrum and the radiated noise spectrum. A two-time variable procedure is used to construct a theory of the three dimensional, unsteady Diesel engine combustion chamber pressure development. This theory is used to extract the spectral behavior of the chamber pressure when the heat release rate contains both periodic and random components. It is then theoretically shown, by use of the theory and past experience on combustion noise, that the randomness can be expected to dominate the periodic part of the pressure-time trace above some lower frequency bound of the order of 1000 Hz. Initial experiments to confirm the theoretical findings are performed under no-load conditions for a single cylinder, air-cooled Diesel engine.
Geomorphic and sedimentary response of rivers to tectonic deformation: a brief review and critique of a tool for recognizing subtle epeirogenic deformation in modern and ancient settings

Abstract Rivers are extremely sensitive to subtle changes in their grade caused by tectonic tilting. As such, recognition of tectonic tilting effects on rivers, and their resultant sediments, can be a useful tool for identifying the often cryptic warping associated with incipient and smaller-scale epeirogenic deformation in both modern and ancient settings. Tectonic warping may result in either longitudinal (parallel to floodplain orientation) or lateral (normal to floodplain orientation) tilting of alluvial river profiles. Alluvial rivers may respond to deformation of longitudinal profile by: (1) deflection around zones of uplift and into zones of subsidence, (2) aggradation in backtilted and degradation in foretilted reaches, (3) compensation of slope alteration by shifts in channel pattern, (4) increase in frequency of overbank flooding for foretilted and decrease for backtilted reaches, and (5) increased bedload grain size in foretilted reaches and decreased bedload grain size in backtilted reaches. Lateral tilting causes down-tilt avulsion of streams where tilt rates are high, and steady down-tilt migration (combing) where tilt rates are lower. Each of the above effects may have profound impacts on lithofacies geometry and distribution that may potentially be preserved in the rock record. Fluvial sedimentary evidence for past tilting is traditionally based on the assumption that depositional features reminiscent of modern fluvial tectonic effects are evidence for past tectonic effects where it is closely associated with historically active structures, or where non-tectonic causes cannot be invoked; however, caution must be exercised when using these effects as criteria for past or current tectonic warping, as these effects may be caused by non-tectonic factors. These non-tectonic causes must be eliminated before tectonic interpretations are made.
The continuum of primary retinal telangiectasia.

Abstract Background Primary retinal telangiectasia is characterized by abnormalities in the retinal vasculature. Any alteration of the normal retinal vasculature may result in variable degrees of retinal leakage, hemorrhages, and exudates. The retinal telangiectatic conditions of Coats’ disease, Leber’s miliary aneurysms, and idiopathic macular telangiectasia (IMT), although historically considered separate entities, may in fact be variants of the same pathophysiologic vascular process. This is based on observations noting that they share similarities in pathogenesis, histology, and clinical presentation. These observations are controversial and are contested in the literature. Conversely, others have documented Coats’ disease, Leber’s miliary aneurysms, and IMT as unique and separate retinal conditions, each with specific features. Methods Three cases are presented spanning the spectrum of primary retinal telangiectasia. Clinical evaluation, dilated fundus examination, and auxiliary testing document both the similar characteristics that the entities share as well as the distinct features, which define each disease’s nomenclature and categorization. Conclusion Coats’ disease, Leber’s miliary aneurysms, and IMT may be part of a singular clinical spectrum sharing pathophysiologic and histopathologic features and similarities in clinical presentation.
Pt−Sn Microfabricated Surfaces as Catalysts for Organic Electro-oxidation

Microfabrication techniques have been used to prepare electrode surfaces reproducibly with well-defined composition and active area. Characterization of surfaces thus prepared leads to straightforward composition−activity and structure−activity relations. Conventional e- beam deposition/lift-off techniques were used to fabricate the catalysts from a photopatterned resist on Pt. Catalysts consist of an array of closely spaced microstructures (circles or squares, 0.1 μm thick, 10−200 μm wide) of Sn on Pt. Characterization of these structures by Auger electron spectroscopy shows that the Pt areas are relatively rich in C, whereas the Sn is relatively rich in O, before and after exposure to aqueous solutions containing the organic fuel. After 3−5 min of use in 0.5 M H2SO4/MeOH, at potentials at which fuel oxidation occurs, redistribution of Sn to the Pt regions was observed. Sn redistribution on the time scale of the experiments is inhibited by capping the Sn with a Pt layer. In samples with capped Sn squares...
Current evaluation of alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis

Introduction: Alemtuzumab is a humanized IgG1 kappa monoclonal antibody approved for treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This cytolytic antibody is directed against CD52 and depletes lymphocytes, with monocytes, macrophages, natural killer cells and a subpopulation of granulocytes being affected to a much lesser degree. Alemtuzumab is currently under review to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United States, based on positive Phase II and Phase III trials in both treatment-naive and treated relapsing MS patients. There was excellent efficacy in suppressing both clinical and neuroimaging disease activities. In these trials, the comparator arm was not placebo, but high dose frequently dosed subcutaneous interferon beta 1a. Alemtuzumab has recently been approved by the European authorities for active relapsing MS, in essence as a first-line agent. It produces long-standing effects, consistent with an induction agent. Efficacy will have to be weighed against risk of adverse effects,...
Multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Parallels and contrasts

Multiple myeloma (MM) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are closely related B-cell cancers. Parallel and divergent features of these diseases are reviewed. In MM, expression of multiple hemopoietic lineage-associated antigens on the malignant cells and the substantial likelihood of progression to acute myelogenous leukemia suggest transformation of a pluripotent stem cell. In CLL, transformation more likely involves a committed B-cell progenitor. Another difference is that clonal evolution with associated cytogenetic progression is common in MM but not CLL. Other data, including studies of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, suggest that MM results both from increased proliferation and accumulation of tumor cells, whereas tumor cell accumulation is the predominant feature of CLL. These differences may be reflected in the seemingly greater role of cytokine abnormalities in MM progression. For example, osteoclast-activating properties of some cytokines account for bone involvement in MM but not in CLL. MM and CLL share common features such as stage-dependent anemia and immune deficiency. Both diseases respond to alkylating agents but vary markedly in their sensitivity to fludarabine (CLL greater than MM) and glucocorticoids (MM greater than CLL). Differences between these diseases in progression-free interval and survival may reflect different definitions of premalignant and malignant phases rather than biologic differences. Detailed comparisons between MM and CLL may provide additional insights into these and related B-cell cancers.
“No Allogeneic Blood Transfusion” protocol for the surgical correction of craniosynostoses I. Rationale

Improved anesthesiological and surgical care has resulted in a progressively declining need for allogeneic blood transfusion. In infants with craniosynostosis, however, allogeneic blood transfusion is still performed as a routine procedure. In the present paper, the authors describe a protocol they have devised with the aim of limiting or even avoiding allogeneic blood transfusion even in very young patients, consequently avoiding the risks of infective or immunologic reactions associated with the procedure. The protocol is based on stimulation of the hematopoietic system with erythropoietin, selection of an appropriate age for operation when a favorable balance between fetal and adult-type hemoglobin is established (that is after 4–6 months), preoperative preparation of the autologous blood supply, and intraoperative blood salvage.
Predicting enhancer transcription and activity from chromatin modifications

Enhancers play a pivotal role in regulating the transcription of distal genes. Although certain chromatin features, such as the histone acetyltransferase P300 and the histone modification H3K4me1, indicate the presence of enhancers, only a fraction of enhancers are functionally active. Individual chromatin marks, such as H3K27ac and H3K27me3, have been identified to distinguish active from inactive enhancers. However, the systematic identification of the most informative single modification, or combination thereof, is still lacking. Furthermore, the discovery of enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) provides an alternative approach to directly predicting enhancer activity. However, it remains challenging to link chromatin modifications to eRNA transcription. Herein, we develop a logistic regression model to unravel the relationship between chromatin modifications and eRNA synthesis. We perform a systematic assessment of 24 chromatin modifications in fetal lung fibroblast and demonstrate that a combination of four modifications is sufficient to accurately predict eRNA transcription. Furthermore, we compare the ability of eRNAs and H3K27ac to discriminate enhancer activity. We demonstrate that eRNA is more indicative of enhancer activity. Finally, we apply our fibroblast trained model to six other cell-types and successfully predict eRNA synthesis. Thus, we demonstrate the learned relationships are general and independent of cell-type. We provided a powerful tool to identify active enhancers and reveal the relationship between chromatin modifications, eRNA production and enhancer activity.
Best process focus and machine focus: adding focus offset to optimize photolithography process for VLSI manufacturing

The focus window of various topographies and substrate was discussed in this paper. Also the electric test data and Cp yield with different focus will be introduced. Finally, the usable depth of focus and auto focus system will be applied to describe the difference between machine and process best focus.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effect of exercise intensity on 6-keto-PGF1α, TXB2, and 6-keto-PGF1α/TXB2 ratios

Six men (X = 27.3 yr) ran at 60%, 70% and 80% of maximal oxygen consumption on separate days for 30 minutes to determine exercise intensity effects on 6-keto-PGF1α, TXB2, and 6-keto-PGF1α/TXB2 ratios. At rest, 6-keto-PGF1α was 384 ± 68.3 pg/ml; TXB2 was 147 ± 55.6 pg/ml; and the 6-keto-PGF1α/TXB2 ratio was 4.63 ± 1.3. After exercise at 60%, 70%, and 80% TXB2 increased to 523.2 ± 117.5, 611.7 ± 155.4∗ and 643.8 ± 121.7∗ pg/ml, respectively (∗p < .05). Post-exercise ratios tended to be inversely related to exercise intensity; however, no statistically significant differences were found between these values. These data suggest that exercise-induced increases in TXB2 may be related to intensity.
Rayleigh scattering optical frequency correlation in a single-mode optical fiber.

The bichromatic optical frequency correlation function for Rayleigh backscattering from a pulse of laser light propagating along a single-mode optical fiber has been calculated and measured. It is shown that the optical correlation frequency, Dnu(c) , is equal to the reciprocal of pulse width T(w) . These results are important for the development of wavelength diversity techniques for the reduction of coherent Rayleigh noise in distributed Rayleigh backscattering single-mode optical fiber sensors.
Perioperative sargramostim (recombinant human GM-CSF) induces an increase in the level of soluble VEGFR1 in colon cancer patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery

Abstract Introduction Experimentally, laparotomy is associated with increased tumor growth. In humans, abdominal surgery is associated with immunosuppression and elevated plasma VEGF levels that might stimulate tumor growth early after surgery. Avoidance of these surgery-related changes and their consequences may be advantageous. Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF) is a non-specific immune system up-regulator that has also been associated, experimentally, with increased release of soluble VEGF Receptor 1 (sVEGFR1) which is an endogenous inhibitor of VEGF. This study's purpose was to determine the impact of perioperatively administered recombinant human GMCSF (rhu-GMCSF) on both immune function and plasma sVEGFR1 levels in colorectal cancer patients. Methods This randomized placebo-controlled study included 36 colorectal cancer patients who underwent minimally invasive resection (17 GMCSF, 19 Placebo). Patients received 7 subcutaneous injections of either rhu-GMCSF, 125μg/m 2 , or saline on preoperative days 3, 2 and 1 and on postoperative days (POD) 1, 2, 3 and 4. A number of immune parameters were followed and plasma levels of soluble VEGF Receptor 1 (sVEGFR1) and VEGF were determined. Results The total WBC, neutrophil, eosinophil, and monocyte counts were significantly higher after surgery in the GMCSF group; no differences were noted for the other immune parameters. In the GMCSF group, median plasma sVEGFR1 levels were significantly elevated on POD 1 (188.1pg/ml), and on POD 5 (142.8pg/ml) when compared to pre-GMCSF levels (0pg/ml)( p -value p =0.05) vs the pre-treatment result (0pg/ml). Of note, both groups had significantly elevated median plasma VEGF levels on POD 5 (Control 435.7pg/ml; GMCSF 385.3pg/ml) when compared to their preoperative results (Control 183.3pg/ml, p =0.0013; GMCSF 171.5pg/ml, p =0.0055). Conclusions Perioperative GMCSF was not associated with an immune function benefit in this study, however, such treatment leads to increased plasma sVEGFR1 levels. Colorectal resection, with or without GMCSF, was also associated with increased VEGF levels postoperatively. Increased plasma levels of sVEGFR1 after surgery might limit the pro-angiogenic tumor stimulatory effects of VEGF. Further study of GMCSF's impact on angiogenesis appears warranted.
Fungal nail infections.

NYCHOMYCOSIS IS A COMMON disease of the nails. Globally, its incidence and prevalence range from 2% to 13%, according to location. Finnish males have the greatest propensity for this disease, which is cosmetically displeasing, potentially painful, and often challenging to treat. It is more common in older patients and those with systemic illnesses. Thirty percent of patients affected by this condition are 60 years of age or older. It is more common in patients who are immunosuppressed, have diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, or have sustained trauma to the involved nail. 1,2 Consider
Benign Cystic Nevus of the Conjunctiva

A 51-year-old white man presented with a large, cystic conjunctival mass along the inferotemporal limbus which was obscuring his vision. Differential diagnosis included benign cystic nevus of the conjunctiva, lymphangioma, lymphangiectasia, and multiple conjunctival inclusion cysts. Biopsy revealed a large cystic nevus of the conjunctiva.
Doing what we can with what we have.

She was still diaphoretic and wide-eyed, but looking slightly more comfortable today than she had when we saw her on yesterday’s evening rounds. We looked on as the young lady sat forward and answered the head physician through an oxygen mask stained from multiple recycled uses and dispensing a very rationed supply of oxygen. He translated her short responses to us, and after a brief examination we moved on, with some relief from the feeling that her condition had improved slightly overnight. My wife, a pediatrics resident, and I, an emergency medicine resident, were in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, midway through a month of working side by side with the local physicians, and here again we were experiencing firsthand the daily battles they fought to provide medical care with the limited and strained resources at their disposal. The patient, a very slender woman in her early twenties, had a history of HIV and a respiratory infection we had presumed to be Pneumocystis pneumonia. We were still a few days from getting her CD4 count back from the distant town with a working laboratory machine, and without local availability of silver staining, treatment was based only on presumed local epidemiology and the bilateral infiltrates on her single radiograph that we daily held up to the window to discuss and debate on rounds. She had arrived 3 days earlier and had steadily been deteriorating despite the regimen of oral trimethoprim/sulfamethoxasole she was receiving. When we had last seen her, last night after evening rounds, she had looked strained and worn out, breathing with deep retractions and looking at us through tired eyes. We had left reluctantly, not knowing what daylight would bring, and this morning’s improvement was a welcome and heartening sign on a day that had already begun with 2 deaths on an inpatient floor of just 23 beds. However, this respite was not to last. Less than 10 minutes later, when we had progressed no more than 2 rooms farther into rounds, one of the nurses motioned to one of the local physicians from the door and said calmly in her broken English, “Come, she is worse.” The more junior of the local physicians left with the nurse and shortly returned to lean in the door, informing us that “she is gasping now.” The rest of us then broke off and returned with him to her bedside.
An examination of intertrial interval and gender influences on sucrose detection thresholds established by a modified staircase procedure.

The influence of intertrial interval durations ranging from 7 to 30 s upon sucrose detection thresholds of sixteen subjects was investigated by means of a modified staircase procedure with intertrial rinses. In addition, the influence of the sex of the subject was examined. Neither the intertrial interval nor the sex of the subject significantly affected sucrose detection thresholds. The results suggest that, in sucrose detection threshold studies using the present procedure, one can employ intertrial intervals as short as 7 s without significantly affecting the threshold value.
A selective damping technique for the suppression of unwanted resonances in high-frequency filter crystals

A new technique for suppressing unwanted resonances in thickness-shear-mode quartz crystals having spherically-bevelled edges has been developed. The technique is based on the fact that the strain associated with inharmonic overtones of vibration extends closer to the perimeter of the crystal along certain axes than along others, while the fundamental thickness-shear mode may, with correct geometry, have negligible amplitude near the crystal perimeter. In view of this it has been found possible, by placing small amounts of an adhesive such as an epoxy resin at certain points on the edge of the crystal, to damp the inharmonic modes selectively without greatly influencing the main response. The new technique permits relatively large variations in electrode diameter to be made without having to alter the crystal geometry to maintain suppression of the unwanted resonances. This facility greatly reduces the problem of crystal-filter design by extending the range of crystal inductances which are available. The paper describes the basic theory underlying the technique, called `selective damping?, and illustrates its application to obtain single-response crystals in the frequency range 2?8 Mc/s.
Projected solid angle and blackbody simulators.

Etude du concept d'angle solide projete en radiometrie. Differences entre les notions d'angle solide et d'angle solide projete pouvant conduire a des erreurs dans la theorie des corps noirs artificiels
Cooking Oil Fumes and Lung Cancer: A Review of the Literature in the Context of the U.S. Population

There is growing evidence that exposure to cooking oil fumes (COF) is linked to lung cancer. Existing literature on this risk was reviewed, specifically as it may relate to potentially at-risk populations such as Chinese immigrants and restaurant workers in the United States. Studies were identified by searching the NCBI database with key terms. All studies that examined the significance, prevalence, and/or mechanism(s) of the association between COF exposure and cancer (all types) were included. A majority of epidemiologic studies found associations between lung cancer and COF exposure. All studies that examined the mechanisms underlying the risk found evidence for mutagenic and/or carcinogenic compounds in COF extract and/or molecular mechanisms for COF-induced DNA damage or carcinogenesis. The evidence reviewed underscores the need to thoroughly investigate the association among at-risk groups in the United States, as well as to develop and assess concrete interventions to reduce these risks.
Ramulosin, a C 10 H 14 O 3 Compound produced by the Fungus Pestalotia ramulosa

EARLY in 1959 we obtained through the courtesy of Dr. D. Brewer of the Atlantic Regional Laboratory a non-sporulating strain of Pestalotia ramulosa v. Beyma, an imperfect fungus belonging to the order Melanconiales. This strain was received as Truncatella ramulosa (v. Beyma) Steyaert, and is present in the Agricultural Research Service Culture Collection as NRRL 2826. When originally isolated by Brewer1 from the tailing trough slime of a paper mill in New Brunswick, Canada, the organism formed spores typical of the species, but became asporogenous during subsequent transfers.
On “pion condensation in a relativistic field theory and π-p interaction”

Abstract We contradict Kutschera's recent claim that a pion condensate does not develop in symmetric nuclear matter.
Inhibition of epoxide metabolism by α,β-epoxyketones and isosteric analogs

Chalcone oxides and several isosteric compounds have been prepared to examine the importance of the alpha,beta-epoxyketone moiety in the inhibition of the hydrolysis of [3H]-trans-stilbene oxide to its meso-diol by mouse liver cytosolic epoxide hydrolase (cEH). Inhibition of microsomal EH and glutathione S-transferase were also examined. For cEH, replacement of the carbonyl by methylidene reduces inhibitor potency by a factor of 44, while replacement of the epoxide ring with a cyclopropyl ring reduces inhibition by a factor of 450. A 2'-hydroxyl also reduces cEH inhibition by 100 times. These observations are consistent with a model of the active site in which the carbonyl is hy-hydrogen-bonded to an acidic site presumed to be involved in initiating epoxide hydrolysis. The chalcone oxides thus bind tightly but are not readily turned over as substrates.