cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TH-E-217BCD-04: MA Modulation and Iterative Reconstruction: Evaluation Using a New CT Phantom

Purpose: The routine clinical CT use of tube current modulation (TCM) and iterative reconstruction algorithms, which can be used to reduce radiation dose, necessitates evaluating their effects on image quality. This study's purpose was to use a new phantom (Mercury Phantom) to evaluate the quality of images acquired with TCM and iterative reconstruction algorithms as implemented by two different CT manufacturers. Methods: The phantom consists of four cylindrical and three tapered regions. The phantom was designed to measure noise‐power spectrum (NPS) and modulation transfer function(MTF) across a range of diameters'” 16, 23, 30, and 37 cm'”and at multiple, clinically relevant insert materials from air to iodinated tissue. Images were acquired on a Siemens Flash and GE 750HD using a range of TCM and proprietary reconstruction algorithms: ASIR, IRIS, and SAFIRE. Custom software measured the non‐stationarity of NPS as a function of reconstruction and TCM. Contrast and MTF were measured for each insert for each reconstruction algorithm. Results: Measured HU of different materials varied minimally as a function of reconstruction algorithm and dose reduction technique. However, as a function of phantom size from the 16‐cm to 37‐cm diameter, the [air,Polystyrene,Acrylic,Teflon] HU of 120‐kVp images changed by approximately [50,−20,−8,−130] for the 750HD and [35,0,6,−75] for the Flash. MTFs of the linear reconstruction algorithms were independent of size, TCM, and contrast, but for iterative algorithms, the MTFs depended on the object contrast and improved by as much as 25%. Peak NPS decreased from 37‐cm to 16‐cm (∼86%), decreased for iterative reconstruction relative to linear algorithms (∼21%), and decreased radially from the phantom's center (∼25%). mA modulation performance differed considerably between the two systems. Conclusion: The Mercury Phantom can be used to assess trade‐offs in CTimage quality and dose reduction techniques for a range of sizes incorporating TCM and iterative reconstruction. Joshua M. Wilson Funded, in part, by Research Agreement with GE Healthcare. Ehsan Samei Research grant: NIH R01 EB001838; Research grant: General Electric; Research grant: Siemens Medical; Research grant: Carestream Health; Share‐holder: Zumatek Inc; Advisory Board: IBA
Class I and class II anti-HLA antibodies after implantation of cryopreserved allograft material in pediatric patients

Abstract Objectives: Very little is known regarding the immune response to cryopreserved allograft valves and patch material used in the surgical repair of congenital heart defects. Methods: We prospectively measured the frequency of panel reactive antibodies directed against HLA class I (HLA-A, B, and C) and class II (HLA-DR/DQ) alloantigens in 24 children receiving cryopreserved allografts. We compared them with results in 11 previously reported control patients. Sixteen of the study patients underwent placement of a valved conduit (11 pulmonic, 5 aortic) between the right ventricle and pulmonary arteries, 6 underwent patch angioplasty of stenotic vessels with cryopreserved pulmonary artery, and 2 underwent placement of a pulmonary monocusp patch. Study patients had panel reactive antibodies measured before, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year after the operation. Results: With allograft implantation, panel reactive antibodies increased from 1.9% ± 5% before the operation to 62% ± 33% at 31 ± 8 days after the operation, 92% ± 15% at 3.3 ± 0.6 months after the operation, and 85% ± 18% at 1.1 ± 0.2 years after the operation. The control group showed no change in panel reactive antibodies, with a level of 1.6% ± 1% before the operation, 3.2% ± 1% 28 ± 5 days after the operation, and 1.7% ± 1% 2.7 ± 0.3 months after the operation. Class II antibodies (anti-HLA-DR/DQ) rose to 49% ± 35% at 30 ± 8 days and 70% ± 26% at 3.3 ± 0.6 months after the operation. Conclusions: Cryopreserved allograft material induces a marked response that involves both class I and class II anti-HLA antibodies within 3 months after operation in children. This alloantibody response may represent a form of “rejection,” may have implications for those who require subsequent cardiac transplantation, and may play a role in early allograft failure. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2000;119:324-30)
Interaction with and Effects on the Profile of Proteins of Botrytis cinerea by C6 Aldehydes

The natural volatile compounds cis-3-hexenal (c-3-H) and trans-2-hexenal (t-2-H) have significant antifungal activity with potential for use as postharvest fumigants of fruits and vegetables. However, the nature of their interaction with fungi and impact on fungal growth at the molecular level are largely unknown. The sites of interaction of these six carbon (C6) aldehydes with Botrytis cinerea, a common pathogen of many plant species, was characterized using 3H-labeled c-3-H and t-2-H. Radiolabeled C6 aldehydes were produced with lipoxygenase and hydroperoxide lyase extracts using [9,10,12,13,15,16-3H6]linolenic acid as a substrate. Following exposure of B. cinerea cultures to radiolabeled C6 aldehydes, radiolabel was recovered in protein-enriched but not lipid-enriched fractions. Radiolabel was incorporated at higher levels (6-fold per milligram of fresh weight and 4-fold per microgram of protein) into conidia than mycelia. About 95% of the radiolabeled aldehyde recovered in the protein fraction was from the surface of the fungal tissue, while 5% was from protein in internal tissue (cell wall, membrane, and cytosol). Exposure to t-2-H at both 5.4 and 85.6 micromol affected the protein profile of B. cinerea, changing the intensity of over one-third of all proteins. Both up-regulation and down-regulation of specific proteins were observed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, indicating a clear effect of t-2-H on changes in the protein profile of B. cinerea. This is the first evidence that fungal proteins are targets of the volatile C6 aldehydes and that sublethal levels of the aldehydes cause changes in the protein profile of a fungus.
Kilohertz and megahertz losses from shock waves in Westerly granite and Solenhofen limestone: a comparison with ultrasonic attenuation

Abstract Values of Q from shock wave attenuation within the “elastic” regime of Westerly granite and Solenhofen limestone are calculated. These values are compared with Q's from ultrasonic attenuation in the kilohertz and megahertz region for Westerly granite observed by Mason, Beshers and Kuo, by Knopoff and by Knopoff and Porter. The agreement between these sets of values leads to the conclusion that shock wave attenuation in laboratory size samples of rock is, to a great extent, due to intra-grain dislocation kink mechanisms, and not to microcracks or grain boundary frictional sliding. This conclusion agrees with Mason, Beshers and Kuo's conclusion about the causes of low megahertz ultrasonic attenuation in Westerly granite.
School Choice? Or is it Privatization?:

an Goldhaber's interesting article on school choice ("School Choice: An Examination of the Empirical Evidence on Achievement, Parental Decision Making, and Equity," December 1999 Educational Researcher) inadvertently poses the arguments for and against choice in a way that may obscure rather than illuminate policy. It is all well and good to define school choice as "any policy that is designed to reduce the constraints that current school configurations place on schools and students" (p. 16), but, as Goldhaber himself recognizes by the end of his article, "the bounds of the debate have shifted rather dramatically from whether to enhance choice within the public system to the question of public funding for vouchers that could be used at private schools" (p. 22). Given that fact, he should have considered whether the school choice arguments, including those that support charter schools, were ever about anything but increasing the role of publicly funded, privately delivered education. When choice is about privatization, we need to know much more about how such an educa-
Cesium and rubidium in submarine hydrothermal fluids: Evidence for recycling of alkali elements

Abstract Cs, Rb, and K concentrations have been measured in hydrothermal fluids from the East Pacific Rise (EPR), southern Juan de Fuca Ridge, and Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR). The results of a time series from 21°N (EPR) show a fall in the Cs/Rb ratios from 1979 to 1985. Together with results from other areas, the data are consistent with a cracking front moving from weathered oceanic crust into fresh basalt within the magma chamber that supplies the heat for hydrothermal convection. Interaction of hydrothermal fluids with basalts that have undergone low-temperature weathering results in recycling of the alkalis (and other elements) between oceanic crust and seawater. These data demonstrate that the concentration of alkali elements in hydrothermal fluids do not represent a rigid constraint on the global magnitude of the circulation of seawater through axial high-temperature hydrothermal systems.
Inconstant nonverbal recognition memory in Korsakoff patients and controls

Abstract Eleven alcoholic Korsakoff patients, 12 alcoholic controls, and 12 volunteers were asked to remember complex nonverbal items (8 bird calls and 8 coloured geometric art patterns) across each of 3 auditory and 3 visual tests of recurrent recognition. Item-by-item analyses of correct recognitions indicated that Korsakoff patients forgot many items, yet recovered other to-be-remembered items from one test to the next. Influenced by decision uncertainty, the recognition memory of Korsakoff patients (as estimated in measures derived from Signal Detection Theory) declined across tests in the auditory task, that of chronic alcoholics only in the visual task. Neither the item fluctuation nor the low decision criteria adopted by Korsakoff patients were found to be task-specific.
Human TEN1 maintains telomere integrity and functions in genome-wide replication restart

TEN1 is a component of the mammalian CTC1-STN1-TEN1 complex. CTC1 and/or STN1 functions in telomere duplex replication, C-strand fill-in, and genome-wide restart of replication following fork stalling. Here we examine the role of human TEN1 and ask whether it also functions as a specialized replication factor. TEN1 depletion causes an increase in multitelomere fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) signals similar to that observed after CTC1 or STN1 depletion. However, TEN1 depletion also results in increased telomere loss. This loss is not accompanied by increased telomere deprotection, recombination, or T-circle release. Thus, it appears that both the multiple telomere signals and telomere loss stem from problems in telomere duplex replication. TEN1 depletion can also affect telomere length, but whether telomeres lengthen or shorten is cell line-dependent. Like CTC1 and STN1, TEN1 is needed for G-overhang processing. Depletion of TEN1 does not effect overhang elongation in mid-S phase, but it delays overhang shortening in late S/G2. These results indicate a role for TEN1 in C-strand fill-in but do not support a direct role in telomerase regulation. Finally, TEN1 depletion causes a decrease in genome-wide replication restart following fork stalling similar to that observed after STN1 depletion. However, anaphase bridge formation is more severe than with CTC1 or STN1 depletion. Our findings indicate that TEN1 likely functions in conjunction with CTC1 and STN1 at the telomere and elsewhere in the genome. They also raise the possibility that TEN1 has additional roles and indicate that TEN1/CTC1-STN1-TEN1 helps solve a wide range of challenges to the replication machinery.
InAs quantum dots: Predicted electronic structure of free-standing versus GaAs-embedded structures

Using an atomistic pseudopotential approach, we have contrasted the (i) strain profiles, (ii) strain-modified band offsets, (iii) energies of confined electrons and holes, and (iv) wave functions and Coulomb interactions between electrons and holes for three types of InAs quantum dots: (a) a free-standing spherical dot, (b) a GaAs-embedded spherical dot, and (c) a GaAs-embedded pyramidal dot. A comparison of (a) and (b) reveals the effects of strain, while a comparison of (b) and (c) reveals the effects of shape. We find that the larger band offsets in the ``free-standing'' dots (i) produce greater quantum confinement of electrons and holes and (ii) act to confine the wave functions more strongly within the dot, resulting in larger electron-hole Coulomb energies. The lower symmetry of the pyramidal dot produces a richer strain profile than the spherical dots, which splits the degeneracy of the hole states and polarizes the emitted light.
The Hepatitis B Virus X-associated Protein, XAP3, Is a Protein Kinase C-binding Protein

The hepatitis B virus X protein induces transcriptional activation of a wide variety of viral and cellular genes. In addition to its ability to interact directly with many nuclear transcription factors, several reports indicate that the X protein stimulates different cytoplasmic kinase signal cascades. Using the yeast two-hybrid screen, we have isolated a clone designated X-associated protein 3 (XAP3) that encodes a human homolog of the rat protein kinase C-binding protein. One of the activation domains of X (amino acids 90–122) is required for binding to XAP3, while the NH2-terminal part of XAP3 is necessary for binding to X. Both X and XAP3 bound specifically to the η PKC isoenzyme synthesized in rabbit reticulocyte lysates. Overexpression of XAP3 enhanced X transactivation activity. These results support earlier findings that one of the mechanisms of transactivation by X is through involvement with the cellular protein kinase C pathway.
Clinical outcomes assessment of consecutively finished patients in a 24-month orthodontic residency: A 5-year perspective

Introduction The purpose of this study was to report on the clinical outcomes of a 24-month orthodontic residency. Methods One examiner scored 1019 consecutive pretreatment records and 714 consecutive posttreatment records annually over 5 years, using the American Board of Orthodontics discrepancy index and objective grading system. Results The mean discrepancy index scores were 19.63, 14.84, 12.30, 15.72, and 15.39 for years 1 through 5, respectively. The mean objective grading system scores were 31.16, 34.79, 28.55, 26.28, and 22.11 for years 1 through 5, respectively. The residents' completion rates for all cases were 58.9%, 60.5%, 82.7%, 74.4%, 78.2%, and 72.2% for years 1 through 5, respectively. Conclusions The establishment of an annual objective outcomes assessment benefited patients by improving objective grading system scores and reduced the number of transfers between residents (increased case completion rate), thus reducing faculty time for managing many transfer patients.
Rebound Effects in Impression Formation: Assimilation and Contrast Effects Following Thought Suppression☆

Active suppression of a thought can lead to preoccupation with that thought. Thisrebound effectcan be conceptualized as an increase in cognitive accessibility. If so, then the effects of suppression-induced accessibility should be moderated by variables (such as cognitive load) that moderate the effects of accessibility produced by other priming procedures. Participants were asked to talk about people they knew, and some were askednotto think about specific favorable or unfavorable personality traits (e.g., honesty or dishonesty). Control participants were instead passively exposed to the same traits. Participants then formed an impression of an ambiguous target person, and half did so while also engaged in a distracting task. As predicted by Martin and Achee's (1992) set/reset model, when impressions were formed with no cognitive load, suppression led to contrast: Participants avoided using the suppressed traits to characterize the target. When cognitive load was increased, however, suppression led to assimilation: Participants reported that the target possessed the suppressed traits. Suppression is not only a poor strategy for avoiding thoughts, but the results of this study suggest that it can also have significant interpersonal consequences.
Local Recurrence Patterns in Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Oncoplastic Reduction Mammaplasty and Radiotherapy

Background The purpose of this study was to describe the incidence and location of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) among breast cancer patients treated with oncoplastic reduction mammoplasty (ORM) and radiotherapy (RT).
Modulation of nitrosourea toxicity in rodent embryonic cells by O6-benzylguanine, a depletor of O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase.

Abstract Micromass culture systems of mesencephalon (CNS) and limb bud (LB) regions were used to evaluate the impact of the O 6 -methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) inhibitor, O 6 -benzylguanine (BG), on ethylnitrosourea (ENU) and methylnitrosourea (MNU)-induced in vitro toxicity. These primary rat embryo cells were preincubated with BG (2.5 μM for CNS; 10 μM for LB) for 24 hr and then ENU (0-1708 μM) or MNU (0-1600 μM) was added, Five days after culture initiation, cell survival was assessed using neutral red uptake and cell differentiation was assessed using selective staining (Alcian blue in LB cultures and hematoxylin in CNS) and image analysis. In both LB and CNS cultures, preexposure to BG resulted in a significant increase in inhibition of differentiation following MNU exposure but no increase in cytotoxicity, There were no statistically significant changes in the toxicity induced by ENU in these differentiating cells consequent to BG preexposure. Our observations lend support to the idea of a specific role for DNA adducts in defining MNU′s toxic effects on cell viability and differentiation.
VAWT Stochastic Loads Produced by Atmospheric Turbulence

Developpement d'un modele de simulation des charges aerodynamiques aleatoires creees par les turbulences atmospheriques appliquees sur un aerogenerateur a axe vertical, en tenant compte de la geometrie du rotor, des conditions operatoires et des proprietes des turbulences. Application du modele a un prototype de 34 m erige au Texas
Infrared Multiphoton Dissociation of Acetone in a Molecular Beam

The infrared multiphoton dissociation of acetone has been studied for the first time under the collisionless conditions of a molecular beam. A single carbon−carbon bond rupture channel resulting in the formation of an acetyl radical and a methyl radical is the only primary channel observed. The translational energy distribution for this channel peaks near zero with an average translational energy release of only 2.0 kcal/mol as expected for a reaction with no exit barrier. Significant secondary decomposition of the acetyl radical to carbon monoxide and methyl radical is also observed. The translation energy distribution determined for this channel is peaked well away from zero with an average energy release of 6.1 kcal/mol indicating that it proceeds on a potential energy surface with a barrier, consistent with previous UV experiments. No molecular elimination pathways are observed under the conditions of these experiments.
Clarification of Yeast Cell Suspensions by Depth Filtration

Depth filtration can be very attractive for initial clarification because of low capital costs and ease of operation. However, there is currently no fundamental understanding of the effects of the filter pore size and morphology on the overall capacity and filtrate quality. The objective of this study was to examine the flux, capacity, and filtrate turbidity of a series of depth filters with different pore size ratings and multilayer structures for the filtration of yeast cell suspensions. Data were analyzed using available fouling models to obtain insights into the flux decline mechanisms. Filters with small pore size provide high filtrate quality at low capacity, with the reverse being true for the larger pore sizes. The multilayer structure of commercial depth filters leads to improved performance, although the choice of layer properties is critical. The highest capacity was achieved using a multilayer filter in which the upper layer allows significant yeast cell penetration into the filter matrix but still protects the retentive layer that is needed for a high quality filtrate.
Centroid-moment tensor solutions for April-June, 1984

Abstract Centroid-moment tensor solutions are presented for 168 earthquakes that occurred during the second quarter of 1984. The solutions are obtained using corrections for aspherical Earth structure.
Apomorphine for the treatment of refractory motor fluctuations in late stage Parkinson's disease: an old drug revisited.

Fil: Perez Lloret, Santiago. Universite de Toulose - Le Mirail; Francia. Pontificia Universidad Catolica Argentina "Santa Maria de los Buenos Aires"; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas; Argentina
Intrauterine testicular torsion: a surgical emergency.

Abstract Background Intrauterine torsion of testes (IUTT) is a very rare condition that is being recognized with increasing frequency. The exact cause of IUTT is not known, and controversies still continue regarding the need for urgent exploration as well as the necessity of contralateral orchidopexy. This is a review of our experience with 11 cases of IUTT, highlighting aspects of diagnosis and management. Patients and Methods From 1990 to 2005, we treated 11 newborns with IUTT. Their mean birth weight was 3.50 kg (range, 2.6-4.12 kg). Their age at presentation ranged from 2 hours to 10 days (mean, 45 hours). All underwent emergency exploration. There were 6 left-sided, 4 right-sided, and 1 bilateral torsion. Results In all, the affected testis was enlarged, tender, firm in consistency, and higher in position, and the overlying skin was dark red in color. Exploration revealed extravaginal torsion in all. In 1, there was partial torsion and the testis was enlarged, congested, but not gangrenous. Another child had complete torsion, but the testis was found enlarged, congested with hemorrhage, but not gangrenous. Both were treated with detorsion and preservation of testes and bilateral orchidopexy. On follow-up, both testes were viable, of good size, and in normal position. The patient with bilateral torsion had frankly necrotic left testis that was removed, but the right testis was smaller in size and ischemic but not frankly necrotic, so it was preserved, but on follow-up, it was found atrophic. One of our patients was evaluated few hours after delivery and found to have normal testes. On the second day, he was found to have enlarged, tender left testis. Emergency exploration revealed extravaginal torsion with slightly enlarged left testis that was ischemic but not frankly necrotic. This was preserved and bilateral orchidopexy was done. On follow-up, both testes were viable, of good size, and normal position. In the remaining 7 patients, the testes were frankly necrotic. They were treated with orchidectomy and contralateral orchidopexy. Histology of the removed testes was variable. In 6, the testes were totally necrotic without any viable testicular tissue, whereas in the remaining 2, there was preservation of some semineferous tubules and hemorrhage with ischemic infarction. Conclusion Intrauterine torsion of testes should be treated as an emergency. To obviate the risk of anorchia, we advocate early recognition of IUTT, expeditious exploration and simultaneous contralateral orchidopexy.
Human immunodeficiency viruses and the pathogenesis of AIDS.

THE ACQUIRED immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by a newly recognized member of the lentivirus family, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). 1 This retrovirus family is distinct from the other subfamilies of human retroviruses, the Spumavirinae and Oncovirinae (Table 1). In particular, lentivirus genomes are large and contain several viral genes; the viruses frequently induce cytopathic effects in infected cells, and the disease they cause has a long incubation period resulting in immunologic disorders and neurological disease. 2 Lentiviruses have been identified in several other animal species, including horses, sheep, goats, cows, cats, and monkeys. 1,2 This finding suggests that a progenitor virus entered the animal kingdom in the distant past and various strains evolved over time within each species. This could be the reason that the primate and human lentiviruses (the simian immunodeficiency virus and HIV) resemble each other. 3 Two subtypes of HIV, HIV-1 and HIV-2, have been
Narcolepsy and obesity: remission of severe cataplexy with sibutramine

An overweight patient (body mass index of 34 kg/m(2)) with narcolepsy associated with cataplexy is described. Polysomnography did not indicate obstructive sleep apnea. Her obesity was treated with sibutramine, a norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine reuptake inhibiting medication and her severe cataplexy remitted. Clinicians must be aware that sibutramine may suppress cataplexy when evaluating excessive daytime sleepiness in an overweight patient taking this anti-obesity medication. Therefore a negative history of cataplexy in these cases may be misleading and narcolepsy may be overlooked in the differential diagnosis. Sibutramine should be discontinued before polysomnography and multiple sleep latency testing but may be a useful medication in the management of obese narcoleptic patients with cataplexy. With the discovery of decreased hypocretin 1 levels in humans with narcolepsy, a neuropeptide that modulates sleep and feeding, the association between narcolepsy and obesity requires more attention.
SUPPRESSION OF CELL-MEDIATED IMMUNITY TO INFECTION BY AN ANTIMITOTIC DRUG FURTHER EVIDENCE THAT MIGRANT MACROPHAGES EXPRESS IMMUNITY

The development of acquired cell-mediated immunity to infection with Listeria monocytogenes can be blocked by a 15 hr pulse of the antimitotic drug, vinblastine (Vb). The drug has no effect on the host-parasite relationship after 72 hr of infection when a high level of immunity is being expressed, i.e., when infective foci are populated by activated macrophages. Infective foci in mice treated early during infection with Vb do not acquire migrant macrophages, but they become acellular after 48 hr of infection. The results indicate that Vb destroys the dividing precursors of migrant macrophages. The possibility that Vb prevents the activation of these cells by destroying dividing lymphoid cells engaged in the specific immunological phase of the host response is also considered.
p̄p Elastic Scattering for Incident Momenta Between 1.0 and 2.50 BeV/c

This is a report on a measurement of pp elastic scattering for 30° ≤ 0 c.m. ≤ 90° and for incident momenta between 1.0 and 2.50 BeV/c. In the past rather extensive counter measurements(1) of this cross section have been made at high energies and low momentum transfers, but little counter data exist at large momentum transfer. The hydrogen bubble chambers(2,3) have produced data between 3.0 and 4.0 BeV/c, but the number of events at large momentum transfer is limited and the statistical accuracy is poor.
The Management of Subretinal Gas Following Attemnted Pneumatic Retinal Reattachment

Pneumatic retinopexy is a recently described procedure for treating retinal detachments with cryotherapy and intraocular gas injection, rather than scleral buckling. Prospective studies are underway to assess its safety and efficacy. One potential complication of this technique is persistent detachment due to subretinal gas. We report seven cases of subretinal gas following attempted pneumatic retinal reattachment. In all cases, multiple fish-egg gas bubbles were present following injection; some of these bubbles gained access to the subretinal space during the early postoperative period. The subretinal gas gave the detached retina a pearly, dome-shaped, refractive sheen. Three cases were managed by positioning the patients' heads to allow the subretinal gas to pass through the retinal break back into the vitreous cavity. One case underwent successful scleral buckling that closed the retinal break despite the presence of a small subretinal gas bubble. Three cases required vitrectomy, air-fluid exchange, and cryotherapy or endolaser treatment. In five of the seven eyes the retina was eventually reattached successfully.
Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Beta (GSK-3β) as a Therapeutic Target in NeuroAIDS

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has made a significant impact on the lives of people living with HIV-1 infection. The incidence of neurologic disease associated with HIV-1 infection of the CNS plummeted between 1996–2000, but unfortunately the number of people currently HIV-1 infected (i.e., prevalence) with associated cognitive impairment has been steadily rising. While the reasons for this may be multifactorial, the implication is clear: there is a pressing need for adjunctive therapy directed at reversing or preventing damage to vulnerable pathways in the central nervous system (CNS) from HIV-1 infection. Using a team of preclinical and clinical investigators, we have focused our efforts on defining how proinflammatory mediators and secretory neurotoxins from HIV-1 disrupt signaling of the survival-regulating enzyme, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β). In a series of studies initiated using in vitro, then in vivo models of HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD), we have demonstrated the ability of the mood stabilizing and anticonvulsant drug, sodium valproate (VPA), that inhibits GSK-3β activity and other downstream mediators, to reverse HIV-1-induced damage to synaptic pathways in the CNS. Based on these results, we successfully performed pharmacokinetic and safety and tolerability trials with VPA in a cohort of HIV-1-infected patients with neurologic disease. VPA was well tolerated in this population and secondary measures of brain metabolism, as evidenced by an increase in N-acetyl aspartate/creatine (NAA/Cr), further suggested that VPA may improve gray matter integrity in brain regions damaged by HIV-1. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of GSK-3β blockade.
The improvement of selective-area growth using plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy for low ohmic contact resistance

To achieve very low ohmic contact resistance, n+-GaN layer was selectively deposited using plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy. During this process polycrystalline GaN grew on the patterned SiO2 region which was subsequently removed by a heated KOH solution, resulting in damage on the n+-GaN surface. To prevent this damage, an additional SiO2 layer was selectively deposited only on the n+-GaN region, producing a specific contact resistance (4.59 x 10-7 Omega-cm2) much lower than that with the KOH etching damage (4.92 ~ 23.7 x 10-6 Omega-cm2). Each of KOH etching included large pits (4.08 x 108 cm-2) and degraded current transport.
Response patterns of primary vestibular neurons to thermal and rotational stimuli.

Abstract The neural responses of vestibular ganglion cells to quantified thermal and rotational stimulation were studied in anesthetized squirrel monkeys. All cells exhibited a spontaneous discharge rate with the average being 72 ± 27.8 spikes/sec. The observed increases and decreases in discharge rates during sinusoidal angular rotation were consistent with the morphological polarization patterns of the hair cells. Likewise, the ganglion cell responses resulting from thermal stimulation by a controlled temperature air stream directed on the lateral portion of the horizontal canal were in agreement with those expected on the basis of Barany's convective current theory and the polarization pattern of the hair cells. In an attempt to determine the relationship between thermal and rotational stimuli, the sensitivities of individual cells to both types of stimuli were determined. Those cells most sensitive to angular rotation were also most sensitive to caloric stimulation. An equivalency value for the two types of stimuli was defined and found to be 1.84 °C/radian·sec−1. The global response characteristics of the vestibular endorgan were studied by simultaneous thermal and rotational stimuli. The thermal stimulus was used to bias the cupula at a new equilibrium position while a rotational stimulus was used to determine the differential sensitivity at that cupular position. For the cells with a more regular spontaneous discharge rate, the differential sensitivity was observed to be a function of the instantaneous discharge rate. No such relationship was observed for the more irregular cells.
Diamond: The Super Mineral

Figure 1. Ball-and-stick models of the diamond crystal structure. Above: The unit cell of diamond showing the C–C bond distance. Right: A projection of the diamond structure within the boundaries o...
Nematode Parasites of the Face Fly and the Onion Maggot in France and Denmark

During the summer of 1968 specimens of the face fly Musca autumnalis De Geer, and the onion maggot, Hylemya antique (Meigen), were collected from Denmark and France and examined for nematode parasites. The Nematode Heterotylenchus autumnalis Nickle was found to parasitize face flies in France but at very low rates. No nematodes were obtained from face flies collected in Denmark. However, nematodes were obtained from 3 female Morellia hortorum (Fallen) and 2 female Scatophaga stercoraria (L.). The nematodes infecting Morellia were identified as belonging to the genus Heter-otylenchus . The nematodes from Scatophaga were not saved, consequently no determination was made. The nematode H. aberrans Bovien was found parasitizing the onion maggot in France and Denmark but at low rates. An unidentified nematode was retrieved from several specimens of the seed-corn maggot, Hylemya piatura (Meigen), also collected from onion fields. H. aberrans was introduced into the United States from Denmark, but attempts to transfer it to native stock were unsuccessful.
Mechanisms of CFTR Folding at the Endoplasmic Reticulum

In the past decade much has been learned about how CFTR folds and misfolds as the etiologic cause of cystic fibrosis (CF). CFTR folding is complex and hierarchical, takes place in multiple cellular compartments and physical environments, and involves several large networks of folding machineries. Insertion of transmembrane (TM) segments into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and tertiary folding of cytosolic domains begin cotranslationally as the nascent polypeptide emerges from the ribosome, whereas posttranslational folding establishes critical domain-domain contacts needed to form a physiologically stable structure. Within the membrane, N- and C-terminal TM helices are sorted into bundles that project from the cytosol to form docking sites for nucleotide binding domains, NBD1 and NBD2, which in turn form a sandwich dimer for ATP binding. While tertiary folding is required for domain assembly, proper domain assembly also reciprocally affects folding of individual domains analogous to a jigsaw puzzle wherein the structure of each interlocking piece influences its neighbors. Superimposed on this process is an elaborate proteostatic network of cellular chaperones and folding machineries that facilitate the timing and coordination of specific folding steps in and across the ER membrane. While the details of this process require further refinement, we finally have a useful framework to understand key folding defect(s) caused by ∆F508 that provides a molecular target(s) for the next generation of CFTR small molecule correctors aimed at the specific defect present in the majority of CF patients.
Reintroduction of CEBPA in MN1-overexpressing hematopoietic cells prevents their hyperproliferation and restores myeloid differentiation.

Forced expression of MN1 in primitive mouse hematopoietic cells causes acute myeloid leukemia and impairs all-trans retinoic acid-induced granulocytic differentiation. Here, we studied the effects of MN1 on myeloid differentiation and proliferation using primary human CD34+ hematopoietic cells, lineage-depleted mouse bone marrow cells, and bipotential (granulocytic/monocytic) human acute myeloid leukemia cell lines. We show that exogenous MN1 stimulated the growth of CD34+ cells, which was accompanied by enhanced survival and increased cell cycle traverse in cultures supporting progenitor cell growth. Forced MN1 expression impaired both granulocytic and monocytic differentiation in vitro in primary hematopoietic cells and acute myeloid leukemia cell lines. Endogenous MN1 expression was higher in human CD34+ cells compared with both primary and in vitro–differentiated monocytes and granulocytes. Microarray and real-time reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction analysis of MN1-overexpressing CD34+ cells showed down-regulation of CEBPA and its downstream target genes. Reintroduction of conditional and constitutive CEBPA overcame the effects of MN1 on myeloid differentiation and inhibited MN1-induced proliferation in vitro. These results indicate that down-regulation of CEBPA activity contributes to MN1-modulated proliferation and impaired myeloid differentiation of hematopoietic cells.
Three-dimensional finite element models from magnetic resonance images as a structural framework for continuum analysis of the heart

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an extremely versatile technique for noninvasive imaging of the anatomy, structure, and physiological function of the heart and other soft tissues and organs. Although mathematical models have often been used to enhance the information content of medical images, these models are most often based on the physics of the imaging system rather that the properties of the target organ or tissue. We use finite element (FE) models of regional mechanical and electrical function in the intact heart to compute 3D distributions of important physiological field variables, such as myocardial stress, that cannot be imaged directly. A parametric model of the heart based on the physical properties of the organ as a material continuum provides a general and convenient way to synthesize clinical data, such as multidimensional images, with experimental tests, such as biomechanical and histological studies.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Changes in the hydrography of Central California waters associated with the 1997-98 El Nino

Abstract Oceanographic conditions off Central California were monitored by means of a series of 13 hydrographic cruises between February 1997 and January 1999, which measured water properties along an oceanographic section perpendicular to the California Coast. The 1997–98 El Nino event was defined by higher than normal sea levels at Monterey, which began in June 1997, peaked in November 1997, and returned to normal in March 1998. The warming took place in two distinct periods. During June and July 1997, the sea level increased as a result of stronger than normal coastal warming below 200 dbars and within 100 km of the coast, which was associated with poleward flow of saltier waters. During this period, deeper (400–1000 dbar) waters between 150–200 km from shore were also warmed and became more saline. Subsequently, sea level continued to rise through January 1998, mostly as a result of the warming above 200 dbars although, after a brief period of cooling in September 1997, waters below 200 dbar were also warmer than normal during this period. This winter warm anomaly was also coastally trapped, extending 200 km from shore and was accompanied by cooler and fresher water in the offshore California current. In March and April 1998, sea level dropped quickly to normal levels and inshore waters were fresher and warmer than the previous spring and flowed southward. The warming was consistent with equatorial forcing of Central California waters via propagation of Kelvin or coastally-trapped waves. The observed change in heat content associated with the 1997–98 El Nino was the same as that observed during the previous seasonal cycle. The warming and freshening events were similar to events observed during the 1957–58 and 1982–83 El Ninos.
Clinical effects of inhibiting leukocyte adhesion with monoclonal antibody to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (enlimomab) in the treatment of partial-thickness burn injury

Background: A randomized, prospective, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II clinical trial was performed to determine whether inhibition of leukocyte adherence by administration of monoclonal antibody directed against intercellular adhesion molecule-1 would improve burn wound healing. Methods: One hundred ten patients with burn injury ranging from 10% to 30% total body surface area were enrolled. Fifty-six patients received placebo (saline) and 54 patients received murine monoclonal antibody to the human intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (enlimomab). Treatment was initiated within 6 hours of injury. Patients had three distinct partial-thickness wound sites assessed. Laser Doppler flowmetry was used to stratify wounds on the day of injury. Wounds were assessed for healing status on day 21 postburn and categorized as healed, non-healed, or grafted. Results: Patients treated with enlimomab had a significantly increased percentage of wounds that healed spontaneously in less than 21 days overall and when stratified by burn wound laser Doppler blood flow readings for those wounds at greatest risk for nonhealing. Conclusion: These results support the concept that leukocyte adherence is involved in the pathogenesis of burn wound necrosis and suggest a therapeutic mechanism for modulating the inflammatory response after the burn injury that may improve wound healing.
Epidemiology of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection in pregnant and nonpregnant women

Abstract Background: Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a ubiquitous virus primarily associated with benign conditions such as febrile syndromes and exanthem subitum (roseola infantum). Sexual, horizontal, and vertical transmission have been suggested. Little information is available regarding HHV-6 infection in women of reproductive age. Objective: Describe epidemiology of HHV-6 infection in pregnant and nonpregnant women. Study design: The study sample consisted of 569 women, age 18–45, who attended a university family planning clinic (nonpregnant, n=224) and two obstetrics clinics (pregnant [first trimester], n=345) in San Antonio, TX between October 1995 and May 1998. Blood and a vaginal swab, as well as sociodemographic information, were collected from each participant. Plasma was tested for HHV-6 IgG antibodies using a standard immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Lysed material from vaginal swabs was tested for HHV-6 DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Products were screened by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and positive tests were confirmed by repeat PCR followed by Southern analysis. PCR-positive samples were subtyped using an established method. Results: All subjects were HHV-6 antibody positive. Geometric mean titers of HHV-6 antibodies were significantly higher among nonpregnant versus pregnant women. Moreover, a higher proportion of nonpregnant versus pregnant women had antibody titers ≥160 and ≥320. This association persisted even after adjusting for a number of sociodemographic and clinical factors. Low rates of HHV-6 shedding in the genital tract were observed for both groups (pregnant, 7/297 [2.0%]; nonpregnant, 8/214 [3.7%]). Of 14 samples subtyped, four (29%) were subtype A. Conclusion: The present study showed that 100% of the study sample was infected with HHV-6. Higher HHV-6 antibody titers, however, were noted in nonpregnant women. Both groups shed virus at low rates in the genital tract. HHV-6 subtype A was identified more commonly than previously reported. Further longitudinal studies are required to assess the consequences of maternal HHV-6 infection.
The Politics of Organizational Boundary Roles in Collective Bargaining

The micro politics of labor and management negotiators' boundary role behavior is explored. A negotiator occupies a critical position from which to influence the outcomes of bargaining. A model of collective bargaining is presented that emphasizes the effects on bargaining outcomes of the psychological distances of the negotiators from their respective constituencies.
Autologous platelet-rich plasma isolated using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 and Haemonetics MCS+ for the preparation of platelet gel

Background and Objectives We compared three methods of isolating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 and one method of isolating PRP by plateletpheresis using the Haemonetics MCS+. PRP contains both platelets and fibrinogen, which are used in the preparation of haemostatic agents. Materials and Methods When the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 was used, 500 ml of blood from each of 30 normal volunteer donors was collected into 70 ml of citrate–phosphate–dextrose (CPD) anticoagulant. In a further 14 normal volunteers, the Haemonetics MCS+ was used to isolate PRP by plateletpheresis using an acid citrate dextrose (ACD) to blood ratio of 1 : 9. In a separate study, CPD-anticoagulated whole blood from another 30 volunteers was used for measurement of fibrinogen levels in the plasma and cryoprecipitate. Results A larger volume of PRP can be collected using the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 than by using the Haemonetics MCS+. The platelet concentration and the total number of platelets were higher in the PRP isolated using the Haemonetics MCS+ than in the PRP isolated by the three methods used with the Haemonetics Cell Saver 5, with differences in platelet concentration and PRP volume among the four methods. The mean fibrinogen level in the plasma was 253 mg % ± 47 (SD) and in the cryoprecipitate was 1085 mg % ± 304 (SD). Conclusions The most appropriate method of PRP isolation for preparation of platelet gel is dependent upon the specific surgical procedure to be undertaken and the patient’s needs.
Child exploitation in the 21st century

Child exploitation has been a problem throughout history. While newer technology has been responsible for many positive changes in society, it also has changed the way in which adults can take advantage of children. With the tremendous technological advances made in the 20th century, a variety of new tools are available to those who prey on children. As we begin the 21st century, this victimisation has taken on important new characteristics. The Internet, digital photography and the ease of travel all have had an impact. We will look how some of these advances have been used by those who prey on our children.