cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A tale of mother and daughter.

Loving science and nature and being a scientist can be very different, yet the two are so intertwined in a scientist's life that you will certainly experience both aspects. This essay presents my perspective on how, as one who loves science and nature, I came to fall in love with centrosome behavior in stem cells and how I came to run a lab as a scientist. When I started, there was a big gap between my love for science and my experience as a scientist. I filled this gap by learning a “laid-back confidence.”
Ghostly vengeance, historical trauma: The Lonely Ghost in the Dark Mansion (1989)

ABSTRACTThis article examines Hei lou gu hun/The Lonely Ghost in the Dark Mansion (Mu Deyuan and Liang Ming, 1989), which played a pioneering role in exploring the subject of ghosts and developing Chinese horror cinema at a time when this type of film could easily be censored. Divided into three parts, this article studies the film's unconventional image of the monster in relation to female ghost figures in Chinese supernatural literature and ghost films; it explores the relationship between the ghost and the female protagonist in terms of the motif of the double (or doppelganger); and lastly it discusses the ways in which The Lonely Ghost presents an historical allegory of the national trauma of the Cultural Revolution and asserts female agency in the historical narration. Through a close analysis of this largely neglected film this article demonstrates its strong feminist perspective and political subversiveness.
Gender, Age, and Racial Differences in Self-Reported Fears Among School-Aged Youth

Little is known about how self-reported fears differ among racially diverse school-aged populations. Given this gap in the literature base, we examined the extent to which self-reported fears differed among White American, African American, and Hispanic youth (Grades 2–12), using the American Fear Survey Schedule. The study sample included 1,033 youth (Mage = 12.56; SD = 3.02) from two southeastern states. Group differences on self-reported fear scores were analyzed using descriptive discriminant analysis. The results revealed statistically significant differences in five select fears among our racially diverse study sample. Gender differences—with girls reporting greater rates of fears than boys—were evidenced in our study sample as well. Fear differences among the sample included highest animal and death and dying fears for the African American youth, highest school-related fears for White youth, and the least fears—family-related concerns by the Hispanic youth. Another finding was the prominence of fears related specifically to crime, robberies, guns, weapons, and violence. Implications are discussed and potential directions for future research in the schools are presented.
Release of targeted p53 from the mitochondrion as an early signal during mitochondrial dysfunction

Increased accumulation of p53 tumor suppressor protein is an early response to low-level stressors. To investigate the fate of mitochondrial-sequestered p53, mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (MEFs) on a p53-deficient genetic background were transfected with p53-EGFP fusion protein led by a sense (m53-EGFP) or antisense (c53-EGFP) mitochondrial import signal. Rotenone exposure (100nM, 1h) triggered the translocation of m53-EGFP from the mitochondrion to the nucleus, thus shifting the transfected cells from a mitochondrial p53 to a nuclear p53 state. Antibodies for p53 serine phosphorylation or lysine acetylation indicated a different post-translational status of recombinant p53 in the nucleus and mitochondrion, respectively. These data suggest that cycling of p53 through the mitochondria may establish a direct pathway for p53 signaling from the mitochondria to the nucleus during mitochondrial dysfunction. PK11195, a pharmacological ligand of mitochondrial TSPO (formerly known as the peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor), partially suppressed the release of mitochondria-sequestered p53. These findings support the notion that p53 function mediates a direct signaling pathway from the mitochondria to nucleus during mitochondrial dysfunction.
Influence of Windbreaks on Distribution and Abundance of Brown Soft Scale in Citrus Groves

In 2 citrus groves in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, the number of Coccus hesperidum L. (Homoptera: Coccidae) increased as the distance of trees from windbreaks increased. Also, more scale crawlers and Texas citrus mites, Eutetranychus banksi (McGregor) (Acarina: Tetranychidae), were caught on sticky plates placed away from a windbreak than on plates adjacent to it.
Identification of novel proteins associated with yeast snR30 small nucleolar RNA

H/ACA small nucleolar RNPs (snoRNPs) that guide pseudouridylation reactions are comprised of one small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) and four common proteins (Cbf5, Gar1, Nhp2 and Nop10). Unlike other H/ACA snoRNPs, snR30 is essential for the early processing reactions that lead to the production of 18S ribosomal RNA in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To determine whether snR30 RNP contains specific proteins that contribute to its unique functional properties, we devised an affinity purification strategy using TAP-tagged Gar1 and an RNA aptamer inserted in snR30 snoRNA to selectively purify the RNP. Northern blotting and pCp labeling experiments showed that S1-tagged snR30 snoRNA can be selectively purified with streptavidin beads. Protein analysis revealed that aptamer-tagged snR30 RNA was associated with the four H/ACA proteins and a number of additional proteins: Nop6, ribosomal proteins S9 and S18 and histones H2B and H4. Using antibodies raised against Nop6 we show that endogenous Nop6 localizes to the nucleolus and that it cosediments with snR30 snoRNA in sucrose density gradients. We demonstrate through primer extension experiments that snR30 snoRNA is required for cleavages at site A0, A1 and A2, and that the absence of Nop6 decreases the efficiency of cleavage at site A2. Finally, electron microscopy analyses of chromatin spreads from cells depleted of snR30 snoRNA show that it is required for SSU processome assembly.
Integrated plastic microfluidic device for ssDNA separation

An integrated microfluidic device with on-chip photodiode is fabricated for single strand DNA (ssDNA) separation and detection. The microfluidic component is fabricated by parylene thin-wall technology. In order to achieve oxygen free environment for acrylamide gel polymerization in microfluidic channel, alumina inner coating is introduced to decrease parylene thin film permeability. On-chip high sensitivity photodiode successfully detected ssDNA fluorescence at the end of separation. Results show alumina is a good oxygen barrier which secures excellent cross-linking of the sieving matrix. Single base pair resolution for ssDNA separation in this device has been achieved.
Reemerging role of cable properties in action potential initiation.

It is generally accepted that the axon initial segment (AIS), the neuroanatomical region linking cell body and axon, is the site of action potential (AP) generation in central neurons (1, 2). Because the occurrence, timing, and pattern of APs play critical roles in sensory encoding, motor output, and synaptic plasticity, the mechanisms underlying AP initiation are of fundamental interest. APs are initiated through membrane depolarization driven by the influx of sodium ions (Na+) through voltage-gated ion channels. The ability of Na currents to produce local depolarization depends on the ratio of the sources and sinks of current flow. Cable theory accounts for current flow down two distinct paths: (i) longitudinally along the central conductor and (ii) transversely through the cable sheathing or membrane. This theory, initially developed to understand signal losses in transatlantic telegraph cables, is also highly applicable to neuronal membrane compartments, such as axons, dendrites, and cell bodies (3, 4). For AP initiation, the source is Na current, and the sink is the loading resulting from current flow to adjacent membrane compartments, with both resistive and capacitive passive components. According to cable theory, either greater Na+ influx or lower passive load would increase membrane depolarization and favor local initiation. To date, the role of electrical load has been inferred from the results of computational studies, with little direct support (5⇓–7). In contrast, recent studies on AP initiation have focused on differences in the localized influx of Na currents. According to this view, a region of concentrated local Na+ influx endows the AIS initiation site with the lowest AP threshold. To evaluate the relative contributions of current source and electrical load in AP initiation, it is pivotal to determine whether the AP initiation site is the location of highest Na current …
Interdigitating and follicular dendritic cell sarcomas: a SEER analysis.

Objectives:Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) and interdigitating dendritic cell sarcoma (IDCS) are rare neoplasms of dendritic cell origin. Because of the rarity of these diagnoses, optimal management is unclear.Methods:In this study, we reviewed the data on FDCS and IDCS available in the Sur
cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylates the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

Abstract Postsynaptic membranes, rich in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, were isolated from the electric organ of Torpedo californica and shown to contain a cAMP-dependent protein kinase and a calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase. The cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylated the γ and δ subunits of the acetylcholine receptor. The phosphorylated subunits were identified after purification of the acetylcholine receptor by affinity chromatography on a choline carboxymethyl affinity gel. In contrast, the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase phosphorylated proteins that were separated from the acetylcholine receptor by affinity chromatography. Protein kinase inhibitor, a specific inhibitor of the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, abolished the basal endogenous phosphorylation of the γ and δ subunits of the receptor. cAMP activation of the endogenous phosphorylation of the γ and δ subunits was dose dependent with a half-maximal response at 25 nM. Studies were also carried out with acetylcholine receptor purified from T. californica and catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase purified from bovine heart. The purified acetylcholine receptor was rapidly and specifically phosphorylated on the γ and δ subunits by the purified catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase to a stoichiometry of 1.0 and 0.89 mol of 32P per mol of receptor, respectively. The initial rates of phosphorylation of the γ and δ subunits of the receptor were comparable to those of histone f2B and synapsin I (protein I), two of the most effective substrates for the catalytic subunit. Under the conditions used, the γ and δ subunits had Km values of 4.0 and 3.3 μM and Vmax values of 2.7 and 2.1 μmol/min per mg, respectively. The results are consistent with the idea that the acetylcholine receptor is phosphorylated in vivo by a cAMP-dependent protein kinase.
The False Paths, the Endless Labors, the Turns Now This Way and Now That : Participatory Action Research, Mutual Vulnerability, and the Politics of Inquiry

Participatory Action Research (PAR) and its many variants are rapidly gaining prominence as viable research tools and methodological alternatives to address histories of exploitation, surveillance, and social exclusion, deeply embedded in mainstream research. However, it is at this transgressive intersection of theory, action, expertise, power, and justice that a host of new challenges to the conduct of research in collaboration with and not just on, or for subordinated people, emerges. This article attempts to intimately describe the challenges of using PAR methods to revise Paulo Freire’s notion of critical consciousness in the context of a parent organizing group and a youth research project, while taking seriously the speed bumps, multiple subjectivities, implicit racism, sexism, classism, and politics of knowledge production that are too often obscured behind published academic writing.
Cryosurgery in prostatic cancer: Survival

From 1969 through 1976 we performed cryosurgery in 229 cases of prostatic cancer. This article presents survival in cryosurgery and other treatment groups. In every stage, despite a preponderance of large primary tumors and poor-risk patients, cryosurgery matched total prostatectomy and compared favorably to other modalities, including radiation therapy, at our center and elsewhere. According to previous authors, and in view of the present data, eradication of the local lesion is associated with better survival even in advanced cases. Cryosurgery provides a safe, effective method.
PROCESS AND DESIGN TOLERANCE IN RELATION TO MANUFACTURING COST: A REVIEW & EXTENSION

ABSTRACT Tolerance is an important aspect in comparing alternative designs and manufacturing processes. This paper presents a brief review of the previous work in the area of tolerance as it relates to manufacturing strategies and technologies. In addition, models for the economic selection of part tolerance that consider reworking are developed. The models can be helpful in augmenting some of the current artificial intelligence modules and expert systems to improve their performance.
The scientific impact of Dr. N. Tulp, portrayed in Rembrandt's "Anatomy Lesson".

Significant historical paintings evocative of iconic events in the history of science rarely achieve the lofty status of Rembrandt's “Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp”; painted in 1632, the year that Ver...
Submicrometer defect enhancement in periodic structures by using photorefractive holography.

We present a defect-enhancement system capable of detecting submicrometer defects on opaque periodic structures using real-time holography in photorefractive crystals. We detect 0.5-μm defects with ~90% success rate and 0.3-μm defects with >85% success rate while inspecting an area greater than 1 mm2 in real time. To our knowledge, these defects have an area 100 times smaller than those previously detected with any real-time holographic technique.
A comparison of two LMS constrained optimal array structures

A comparison of two different array processing structures is presented. Both are shown to belong to the least mean square (LMS) constrained class. A proof is presented which shows that these structures yield identical overall processors.
A realistic, two-course sequence in large scale software engineering

We discuss a two semester, senior level sequence of courses in large scale software development. The courses are keyed upon the element of realism by having an actual user supply an actual project. In the first course students develop a functional specification of user needs. In the second course students design a system from the specifications and implement at least a portion of the project. We discuss the significant benefits of having a real project and point to some drawbacks. We conclude by discussing possible applicability of our courses to other schools.
Uniform laws of large numbers and stochastic Lipschitz-continuity

This paper presents weak and strong uniform laws of large numbers for stochastically Lipschitz-continuous averages of functions of independent and dependent random variables. It extends results from the literature by making use of the cover number properties of stochastically Lipschitz-continuous averages on the one hand and convergence speeds of averages of bounded functions on the other hand. The resulting conditions for uniform laws of large number for stochastically Lipschitz-continuous averages of functions trade off heterogeneity and dependence against trending in the Lipschitz function of the function class involved.
Molecular Basis of Glucocorticoid Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy in New Born Rats. † 128

Dexamethasone (DEX) is used for bronchopulmonary dysplasia in newborns and infants. One of the cardiovascular sequelae is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. To understand the molecular basis of DEX-induced cardiac hypertrophy, we analyzed expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC) gene that exists in two isoformsα and β encoded by separate genes. Expression of these two genes undergoes specific changes in cardiac hypertrophy induced by different stimuli. One day old rats were treated with DEX (0.5 mg. kg-1 day-1 s.c.) for 3, 5, 7 and 10 days. Twenty-four hrs. after last injection, treated animals were sacrificed along with respective saline injected groups. A total of 142 treated and 110 control rats were studied. Body wt. (BW), heart wt.(HW), dry HW (DHW), HW/BW and DHW/HW ratios were obtained. Steady state levels of α- and β- MHC mRNA were assessed in 3 and 5 day groups by Northern blot analyses using 32P labeled oligonucleotide probes synthesized from 3′ untranslated regions ofα- and β- MHC genes. Control groups showed age-related increase in BW (52%, 95%, 144%, and 219% in 3, 5, 7 and 10 day groups respectively) compared to BW at day one. In contrast, DEX -treated rats had no weight gain in 3d and 5d group and a significant drop of BW by 13% and 23% in 7d and 10d groups. Although HW was lower in the DEX-treated groups, HW/BW ratio was higher than controls (p ≤.01). Interestingly DHW/HW ratio was increased in DEX- treated groups than in respective controls by 15, 23, 23 and 22% in the 3, 5, 7 and 10 day groups, as compared to controls (p ≤.05). DEX treatment showed increase in steady state level of α-MHC mRNA whereas β-MHC mRNA remained unchanged. Our data demonstrate that unlike in pressure-load induced hypertrophy, DEX-induced hypertrophy involves increased expression ofα-MHC gene and suggests a distinct mechanism for cardiac hypertrophy.
Influences of Water and Sediment Quality and Hydrologic Processes on Mussels in the Clinch River

Segments of the Clinch River in Virginia have experienced declining freshwater mussel populations during the past 40 years, while other segments of the river continue to support some of the richest mussel communities in the country. The close proximity of these contrasting reaches provides a study area where differences in climate, hydrology, and historic mussel distribution are minimal. The USGS conducted a study between 2009 and 2011 to evaluate possible causes of the mussel declines. Evaluation of mussel habitat showed no differences in physical habitat quality, leaving water and sediment quality as possible causes for declines. Three years of continuous water-quality data showed higher turbidity and specific conductance in the reaches with low-quality mussel assemblages compared to reaches with high-quality mussel assemblages. Discrete water-quality samples showed higher major ions and metals concentrations in the low-quality reach. Base-flow samples contained high major ion and metal concentrations coincident to low-quality mussel populations. These results support a conceptual model of dilution and augmentation where increased concentrations of major ions and other dissolved constituents from mined tributaries result in reaches with declining mussel populations. Tributaries from unmined basins provide water with low concentrations of dissolved constituents, diluting reaches of the Clinch River where high-quality mussel populations occur.
Effective CAD Research in the Sea of Papers

In the past decade, there has been a rapid growth in the number of journal, conference and workshop publications from academic research. The growth seems to be accelerated as time goes by. Accordingly, it has become increasingly difficult for researchers to efficiently identify papers related to a given topic, leading to missing important references or even repetitive work. Moreover, even when these papers are found, it is very time-consuming to find their inherent relations. In this paper, using CAD research as a vehicle, we will demonstrate a novel deep learning based framework that can automatically search for papers related to a given abstract of research, and suggest how they are correlated. We also provide the analysis and comparison among several classic machine-learning approaches. Experimental results show that the proposed approach always outperforms the conventional keyword-based rankings, in both accuracy and F1 scores.
The Effect of Dietary Prebiotics and Probiotics on Body Weight, Large Intestine Indices, and Fecal Bile Acid Profile in Wild Type and IL10−/− Mice

Previous studies have suggested roles of probiotics and prebiotics on body weight management and intestinal function. Here, the effects of a dietary prebiotic, inulin (50 mg/g diet), and probiotic, Bfidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (Bb12) (final dose verified at 105 colony forming unit (cfu)/g diet, comparable to human consumption), were determined separately and in combination in mice using cellulose-based AIN-93G diets under conditions allowed for the growth of commensal bacteria. Continuous consumption of Bb12 and/or inulin did not affect food intake or body, liver, and spleen weights of young and adult mice. Fecal bile acid profiles were determined by nanoESI-MS/MS tandem mass spectrometry. In the presence of inulin, more bacterial deconjugation of taurine from primary bile acids was observed along with an increased cecal weight. Consumption of inulin in the absence or presence of Bb12 also increased the villus cell height in the proximal colon along with a trend of higher bile acid sulfation by intestinal cells. Feeding Bb12 alone at the physiological dose did not affect bile acid deconjugation and had little effect on other intestinal indices. Although interleukin (IL)10-null mice are susceptible to enterocolitis, they maintained the same body weight as the wild type mice under our specific pathogen-free housing condition and showed no signs of inflammation. Nevertheless, they had smaller cecum suggesting a mildly compromised intestinal development even before the disease manifestation. Our results are consistent with the notion that dietary factors such as prebiotics play important roles in the growth of intestinal microbiota and may impact on the intestinal health. In addition, fecal bile acid profiling could potentially be a non-invasive tool in monitoring the intestinal environment.
Parasitic and Phoretic Mites Associated with Neotropical Harvestmen from Trinidad, West Indies

Larval erythraeid mites are common ectoparasites of harvestmen (Opiliones). However, interactions between these mites and hosts in tropical environments have received little attention. In this study, we examined the prevalence and intensity of mite infestations for Neotropical harvestmen from the Caribbean island of Trinidad. Overall, the prevalence of infestation was 9.9%, with significant interspecific variation in the intensity of mite infestation and significant differences in parasitism of hosts between habitats. Harvestmen collected from lowland, crappo-cocorite forest exhibited the highest infestation rates. In our samples, the intensity of infestation varied from 1 to 17 mites per host. Examination by scanning electron microscopy revealed that harvestmen were infested by two taxa of mites, a species of Leptus and another unidentified erythraeid species. Our observations represent the first host records for erythraeid mites parasitizing harvestmen from the families Cranaidae and Manaosbiidae. Mites were found to attach preferentially to the tibia and femur of the leg (175 of 178 observations). In general, the harvestmen of Trinidad exhibited mite parasitism in a fashion similar to temperate species with respect to site of attachment and prevalence and intensity of mite infestation. In the field, we also collected an adult Cynortula sp. (Cosmetidae) that was transporting 30 gravid adults of an oribatid mite (Acariformes, Oribatida, Mixonomata). Cases of mite phoresy upon harvestmen are rare, with our observation representing the first report of phoresy by an oribatid mite upon a harvestman and the first documentation of mite phoresy upon harvestmen in the Caribbean.
A Blueprint for Assessing Public Support of Citywide Smoke-Free Legislation

The tracking of public opinion can be a critical component of antitobacco campaigns, such as efforts to enact citywide Clean Indoor Air legislation. Grassroots tobacco control coalitions that work locally to promote smoke-free environments typically encompass individuals from a wide range of public health fields. Although knowledgeable, volunteer groups lack the financial resources to evaluate the impact of local efforts or determine their community's level of support for potential legislation. The steps taken by a grassroots organization to conduct a public opinion survey are outlined, including methodological, analytical issues, and resource requirements. A valid survey can be completed in 4 months with minimal financial resources. Individuals willing to voluntarily administer and analyze a survey can be identified at the local level. Results of a tobacco-related public opinion survey can be instrumental in the promotion of smoke-free environments and an effective tool in attracting media coverage.
Kermit, a frizzled interacting protein, regulates frizzled 3 signaling in neural crest development

Wnts are a family of secreted glycoproteins that are important for multiple steps in early development. Accumulating evidence suggests that frizzled genes encode receptors for Wnts. However, the mechanism through which frizzleds transduce a signal and the immediate downstream components that convey that signal are unclear. We have identified a new protein, Kermit, that interacts specifically with the C-terminus of Xenopus frizzled-3 (Xfz3). Kermit is a 331 amino acid protein with a central PDZ domain. Kermit mRNA is expressed throughout Xenopus development and is localized to neural tissue in a pattern that overlaps Xfz3 expression temporally and spatially. Co-expression of Xfz3 and Kermit results in a dramatic translocation of Kermit to the plasma membrane. Inhibition of Kermit function with morpholino antisense oligonucleotides directed against the 5' untranslated region of Kermit mRNA blocks neural crest induction by Xfz3, and this is rescued by co-injection of mRNA encoding the Kermit open reading frame. These observations suggest that Kermit is required for Wnt/frizzled signaling in neural crest development. To the best of our knowledge, Kermit is the first protein identified that interacts directly with the cytoplasmic portion of frizzleds to modulate their signaling activity.
Upregulation of proteasome activity in muscle RING finger 1-null mice following denervation

Deletion of muscle RING finger 1 (MuRF1), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, leads to sparing of muscle mass following denervation. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that muscle sparing in mice with a deletion of MuRF1 is due to the selective inhibition of the ubiquitin proteasome system. Activities of the 20S and 26S proteasomes, calpain and cathepsin L, were measured in the triceps surae muscles of wild-type (WT) and MuRF1-knockout (KO) mice at 3 and 14 d following denervation. In addition, fractional protein synthesis rates and differential gene expression were measured in WT and KO muscle. The major finding was that 20S and 26S proteasome activities were significantly elevated (1.5- to 2.5-fold) after 14 d of denervation in both WT and KO mice relative to control, but interestingly, the activities of both the 20S and 26S proteasome were significantly higher in KO than WT mice. Further, mRNA expression of MAFbx was elevated after 14 d of denervation in KO, but not WT, mice. These data challenge...
Acrylamide-induced changes in the monoamines and their acid metabolites in different regions of the rat brain.

Acrylamide administration of 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight i.p. in the male rat induced alteration in the levels of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) in different regions of the brain. Selective but widespread changes were observed in 5-HIAA levels in all regions of the brain studied. 5-HT levels were significantly increased in the brain stem. The DA content also showed a significant increment in the caudate nucleus. These data suggested that the neurotoxicity of acrylamide might be correlated with the overall disturbances of serotonergic system.
Estimation of total body water in very-low-birth-weight infants by using anthropometry with and without bioelectrical impedance and H2[(18)O].

The usefulness of bioelectrical impedance (BI) with anthropometry to measure total body water (TBW) was evaluated in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. A specific regression equation to measure TBW in a VLBW population was developed by simultaneously using the H2( 18 O) dilution method and BI in 12 infants with a gestational age of 24-30 wk and weighing < 1200 g at birth. After an oral dose of H 2( 18 O), the tracer dilution was measured in expired carbon dioxide. BI measurements were made with a model BIA-101 apparatus (RJL Systems, Detroit). Electrodes were placed in the standard position as well as proximally on the leg and the forearm. The best correlation was observed between body weight and TBW (r = 0.989). For BI, the best correlation was obtained when gestational age was used as a covariable along with body weight and crown-heel length (r = 0.985). The correlation was comparable with proximal electrode placement (r = 0.985). The new correlation was evaluated in 6 infants weighing < 1008 g. A significant correlation between BI and H 2( 18 O)-measured TBW was observed (r = 0.988). Published regression equations for infants consistently gave higher estimates of TBW in another group of 14 infants weighing < 1200 g than did the new correlations. TBW represented 84-95% of body weight in these VLBW infants. TBW could be computed simply from body weight alone. Use of BI and length as covariables did not add significantly to the estimate of TBW in VLBW infants. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:668-74.
Pitfalls in establishing a molecular diagnostic laboratory

Abstract Diseases are increasingly being defined in terms of genetic alterations. A body of information termed “molecular pathogenesis” is evolving which provides a framework for integrating the rapidly accumulating genetic information with the related disease process. Molecular methods with their increased sensitivity and specificity are required to gather this information. A major challenge now lies in the transfer of this molecular technology from a research environment to the clinical testing arena. Technical issues, patented technology, special facilities, personnel, and regulatories issues imposed by CLIA'88, require those desiring to perform molecular tests to pay special attention to laboratory design, personnel training, and test menu development. Although establishing a successful molecular diagnostics laboratory is a complex and difficult task, the added value of these tests can have a tremendous impact in disease diagnosis and patient management.
Cross-kingdom patterns of alternative splicing and splice recognition.

Background: Variations in transcript splicing can reveal how eukaryotes recognize intronic splice sites. Retained introns (RIs) commonly appear when the intron definition (ID) mechanism of splice site recognition inconsistently identifies intron-exon boundaries, and cassette exons (CEs) are often caused by variable recognition of splice junctions by the exon definition (ED) mechanism. We have performed a comprehensive survey of alternative splicing across 42 eukaryotes to gain insight into how spliceosomal introns are recognized. Results: All eukaryotes we studied exhibit RIs, which appear more frequently than previously thought. CEs are also present in all kingdoms and most of the organisms in our analysis. We observe that the ratio of CEs to RIs varies substantially among kingdoms, while the ratio of competing 3' acceptor and competing 5' donor sites remains nearly constant. In addition, we find the ratio of CEs to RIs in each organism correlates with the length of its introns. In all 14 fungi we examined, as well as in most of the 9 protists, RIs far outnumber CEs. This differs from the trend seen in 13 multicellular animals, where CEs occur much more frequently than RIs. The six plants we analyzed exhibit intermediate proportions of CEs and RIs. Conclusion: Our results suggest that most extant eukaryotes are capable of recognizing splice sites via both ID and ED, although ED is most common in multicellular animals and ID predominates in fungi and most protists.
Monolithic optoelectronic transistor: a new optical neuron device

An integrated optoelectronic device, the monolithic optoelectronic transistor (MOET), has been demonstrated. The MOET functions as an optical sum-and-threshold device with large- signal optical gain. It can be electrically biased to achieve either abrupt switching thresholds or quasi-sigmoidal optical transfer characteristics, and excitatory and inhibitory inputs can be incorporated through a simple modification of the single-input device. Initial MOET devices displayed an optical gain greater than 10 and an output contrast ratio exceeding 50. The MOET has promising characteristics as a building block of optoelectronically implemented neural networks and image preprocessing systems.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Plasma surface modification of electrospun fibers for adhesion-based cancer cell sorting

Personalized cancer therapies drive the need for devices that rapidly and accurately segregate cancer cells from solid tumors. One potential sorting strategy is to segregate populations of cells based on their relative strength of adhesion. To investigate the effect of surface hydrophilicity and cell phenotype on adhesion, primary human breast skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes and MCF-7 breast cancer cells were seeded onto air and CF4 plasma-treated nanofibers followed by exposure to three shear stresses (200, 275 and 350 dynes per cm2) 1 hour after inoculation. No difference in strength of adhesion was measured in either fibroblasts or keratinocytes on either plasma treated-surface: all exhibited >60% of the initial cell count after a 5 minute exposure to 350 dynes per cm2 of shear stress. In contrast, a significant difference between relative strength of adhesion on air versus CF4 plasma-treated surfaces was observed for MCF-7 cells: 26% and 6.6% of cells remained on the air and CF4 plasma-treated surfaces, respectively. The ability to sort this cancer cell line from two non-cancerous primary human cells was evaluated by inoculating a mixture of all three cell types simultaneously onto CF4 treated nanofibers followed by 1 hour of culture and exposure to 350 dynes per cm2 shear stress. The majority of MCF-7 cells were removed (0.7% remained) while a majority of fibroblasts and keratinocytes remained adhered (74 and 57%). Post-sorted MCF-7 viability and morphology remained unchanged, preserving the possibility of post-separation and analysis. These data suggest that the plasma treatment of electrospun scaffolds provides a tool useful in sorting cancer cells from a mixed cell population based on adhesion strength.
Kirchhoff's Pen: a pen-based circuit analysis tutor

Kirchhoff's Pen is a pen-based tutoring system that teaches students to apply Kirchhoff's voltage law (KVL) and current law (KCL). To use the system, the student sketches a circuit schematic and annotates it to indicate component labels, mesh currents, and nodal voltages. The student then selects either mesh (KVL) or nodal (KCL) analysis, and writes the appropriate equations. The system interprets the equations, compares them to the correct equations (which are automatically derived from the circuit), and provides tutorial feedback about errors. Unlike traditional tutoring systems that work from input provided with a keyboard and mouse, our system works from ambiguous, hand-drawn input. The goal of our work is to create computational techniques to enable natural, pen-based tutoring systems that scaffold students in solving problems in the same way they would ordinarily solve them with paper and pencil. Kirchhoff's Pen is an important first step toward this goal.
Unraveling the PAF-AH/Lp-PLA2 controversy.

The secreted or plasma form of platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH), also known as lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) or phospholipase A2 group 7 (PLA2G7), is a member of the PLA2 superfamily of enzymes that circulates in blood in association with lipoproteins, and is found in atherosclerotic lesions [reviewed in (2, 3)]. This enzyme was discovered in the early 1980s based on its ability to hydrolyze the pro-inflammatory glycerophospholipid PAF, and was thus proposed to have anti-inflammatory properties. In subsequent years, it was recognized that PAF-AH hydrolyzes glycerophospholipids containing short and/or oxidized functionalities at the sn-2 position, with no preference for the type of linkage at the sn-1 position, i.e., alkyl versus acyl. Substrate hydrolysis catalyzed by PAF-AH generates lysoPAF/lyso phosphatidylcholine (lysoPC) and short and/or oxidized fatty acids, many of which also have been reported to have pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative activities (4). These observations fueled multiple investigations that led to controversial views regarding the role of PAF-AH in human physiology and disease (1, 4–6). Notably, the hypothesis that PAF-AH might actively contribute to vascular inflammation during atherogenesis owing to its ability to generate pro-inflammatory substances (7) led to the proposition that inhibition of the activity could offer vascular protection in addition to that afforded by cholesterol lowering agents. A number of reversible PAF-AH inhibitors were developed in the pharmaceutical industry and one of them, darapladib, has been extensively tested in vitro and in vivo (8–14). Moreover, GlaxoSmithKline sponsored three darapladib clinical trials that yielded relatively consistent results (11, 15–20).
Models for diagnosing robot error sources

The idea of using error models to predict the sources of the error in a machine is discussed. It is shown that the somewhat ad-hoc modeling methods used for robot calibration, although satisfactory for improving accuracy, are not useful for detecting the true causes of error. It is shown that even if only independent parameters are used in a model, they still may not represent the real error sources. If dependent parameters are used in the model the problem can be aggravated and these parameters may not even improve accuracy. To alleviate this problem, the error function is being proposed to represent errors. By proper attachment of the error function in a parametrically general calibration model, a complete model for machine error identification can be obtained. >
Laboratory testing of a distributed generator unintentional islanding detection scheme

This paper describes the initial development and testing of an islanding detection scheme in conformance with the IEEE 1547 standard for interconnecting distributed resources with electric power systems. The islanding detection algorithm involves adding a perturbation signal to the throttle of a distributed generator (DG). Deviations in DG electrical frequency caused by the perturbation signal are much smaller when the DG is connected to the grid than when it is in an island. We have performed a subset of the unintentional islanding detection tests required by the IEEE 1547.1 standard using an 85 kW DG powered by a reciprocating engine. The standard requires an island to be detected when the DG and a matching load are simultaneously disconnected from the grid. Preliminary results are promising and we describe the refinements and extensions to the test procedures that will be required to finish demonstrating compliance with the IEEE 1547 standard.
Induction of Hepatic Enzymes by Adenosine 3',5'-Monophosphate in Organ Culture

Abstract In fetal rat liver maintained in organ culture, the activity of tyrosine-α-ketoglutarate transaminase (L-tyrosine:2-oxo-glutarate aminotransferase, EC 2.6.1.5) is elevated by adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) and those hormones (glucagon, catecholamines) that stimulate formation of this nucleotide, as well as by hydrocortisone and insulin. Hydrocortisone is the most effective inducer, but the lag period for response to glucagon, isoproterenol, and cyclic AMP is somewhat shorter than with the steroid. The results obtained with combinations of the different inducers suggest that there may be three basic mechanisms for regulation of the transaminase: one stimulated by hydrocortisone, one by insulin, and one by cyclic AMP. The effect of cyclic AMP on the transaminase was found to be due to an increased rate of enzyme synthesis as determined by immunochemical isotopic analysis. Very low concentrations of either hydrocortisone or cyclic AMP markedly potentiated the effects of optimal concentrations of the other. Glucagon, isoproterenol, and cyclic AMP were found to stimulate the activity of another hepatic enzyme, soluble phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (GTP:oxaloacetate carboxy-lyase transphosphorylating, EC 4.1.1.32), but not glucose 6-phosphatase (D-glucose 6-phosphate phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.9) within a 4-hour period. Hydrocortisone and insulin did not affect either of these enzymes; rather, insulin inhibited induction of the carboxykinase by glucagon, isoproterenol, or cyclic AMP. Both cycloheximide and actinomycin largely prevented the effects of all agents on both the transaminase and the carboxykinase. Possible sites of action of the different inducers are discussed.
Increases in C-Reactive Protein May Predict Recurrence of Clozapine-Induced Fever

OBJECTIVETo report a case of recurrent clozapine-induced fever that was associated with a rise in C-reactive protein (CRP).CASE SUMMARYA 73-year-old man with Lewy Body dementia was admitted for psychosis. He was treated with clozapine (initial dose 12.5 mg/day, titrated to 75 mg/day over 15 days). On day 15 of clozapine therapy, he developed a benign fever (maximum 38.4 °C) that was associated with a rise in the CRP level (3.96 mg/dL). The level normalized when clozapine was discontinued. However, when the patient was rechallenged with clozapine, the CRP level became elevated (4.36 mg/dL) after 3 days of therapy, with a subsequent recurrence of fever (38.7 °C).DISCUSSIONWe postulate that the elevation in CRP levels and the subsequent fever were caused by the effects of clozapine on the cytokine system via interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, resulting in an inflammatory response with an acute phase reaction. This case is unique, as it is the first reported in the literature associating a recurrence ...
Aftershock Detection Thresholds as a Function of Time: Results from the anza Seismic Network following the 31 October 2001 ML 5.1 Anza, California, Earthquake

We examine aftershock detectability thresholds for events in the initial part of the 31 October 2001, M L 5.1 sequence in southern California. This sequence occurred directly below the broadband anza seismic network, which recorded continuous waveform data at 13 azimuthally well-distributed stations within the study region (seven had epicentral distances < 20 km). Of the 608 aftershocks (0 < M L < ∼2.8) in the initial 2 hr of this sequence, the first five aftershocks recorded were only identifiable at stations within 30 km after applying a high-pass filter. Using a cluster (radius ≤ 1.1 km) of 200 representative aftershocks, we track the maximum seismogram amplitude versus earthquake magnitude. This relationship helps us quantify the visibility of aftershocks within the mainshock coda and assess our detection capabilities. We estimate that detectable aftershocks within the mainshock coda include (1) those over magnitude ∼3 that are within 15 km of the network centroid that occur 12 sec or more into the sequence, and (2) those over magnitude ∼2 that are within 30 km of the centroid of the network that occur 60 sec or more into the sequence. We find a lack of large aftershocks in this sequence. The largest aftershock ( M L ∼2.8) is substantially smaller than the mainshock ( M L 5.1). We suggest this relatively large-magnitude differential is dictated by a combination of factors that includes complexity of the San Jacinto fault system and the lack of large earthquakes in the region in the past ∼20 years. Online material: Quicktime movies juxtaposing a 3.2 aftershock in the coda of a 5.1 mainshock.
Profit Inflation and the Industrial Revolution, 1751–1800

The evolution of machinery, 256. — Commodity prices and money wages, 257. — Real wages, 260. — Profit inflation, 262. — The utilization of mechanical inventions, 263. — Capital formation and the factory system, 264. — Real wages and the market, 267. — Comparisons with other countries and periods: Spain, 267. — France, 270. — The Price Revolution, 270. — Conclusions, 272.
Longitudinal pathways from early maternal depression to children’s dysregulated representations: a moderated mediation analysis of harsh parenting and gender

There is some evidence linking maternal depression, harsh parenting, and children's internal representations of attachment, yet, longitudinal examinations of these relationships and differences in the developmental pathways between boys and girls are lacking. Moderated mediation growth curves were employed to examine harsh parenting as a mechanism underlying the link between maternal depression and children's dysregulated representations using a nationally-representative, economically-vulnerable sample of mothers and their children (n = 575; 49% boys, 51% girls). Dysregulation representations were measured using the MacArthur Story Stem Battery at five years of age (M = 5.14, SD = 0.29). Harsh parenting mediated the association between early maternal depression and dysregulated representations for girls. Though initial harsh parenting was a significant mediator for boys, a stronger direct effect of maternal depression to dysregulated representations emerged over time. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for intervention efforts aimed at promoting early supportive parenting.
Abdominoperineale Proktektomie bei benignen Kolonerkrankungen

Entzundliche Darmerkrankungen, insbesondere Colitis ulcerosa und Ileocolitis Crohn mit Rektumbe-fall, familiare Polyposis.
The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act: Challenges and Promises for Public Health

The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000 (SACPA), also known as Proposition 36, became effective on July 1, 2001. It allows certain nonviolent drug offenders into community-based drug treatment programs instead of incarceration. Funds have been allocated to the California counties for implementation of the law over a five year period. The program involves the cooperation and collaboration of professionals and agencies within the state's two social service systems: criminal justice and public health. Initial evaluation indicates SACPA's effectiveness in reducing jail and prison populations, saving funds, and providing drug treatment to a large number of SACPA recipients. The implementation process has faced a number of challenges that must be resolved to ensure Californians' trust that treatment is more effective than punishment of drug abusers. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the SACPA initiative and present an analysis of its benefits and challenges. Additionally, suggestions are made for health educators' intervention to ensure effectiveness of SACPA programs in improving public health.