cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Febrile Seizures and Primary Human Herpesvirus 6 Infection

Primary human herpesvirus 6 infection is acquired mainly during the first two years of life and is often associated with febrile seizures. The aim of the present study was to investigate in Greece the frequency and clinical characteristics of primary human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection in hospitalized children with febrile seizures. Children aged from 6 months to 5 years without known neurologic disease were examined for primary HHV-6 infection, by real-time polymerase chain reaction in acute-phase plasma and by indirect immunofluorescent assay for antibody titers in acute and convalescent serum. Of 65 children included in the analysis, 55 experienced the first febrile episode of seizures and 10 the second. Primary HHV-6 infection was verified in 10 of 55 children with a first febrile episode (18%), whereas none of the 10 children with a second episode of seizures had primary HHV-6 infection. Eight children were infected with HHV-6 type B and two with type A. None of the 85 control subjects had primary HHV-6 infection, but 49% had immunoglobulin G antibodies against the virus. These findings suggest that primary HHV-6 infection is frequently associated with febrile seizures in children in this geographic region and should be considered, especially for a first episode of febrile seizures.
Transfusions in the treatment of hemorrhagic diseases.

The transfusion of fresh or fresh frozen plasma serves as a specific means to correct in part and temporarily the coagulation defect in hemophilia A, hemophilia B, hereditary hypoprothrombinemia vera, and congenital deficiencies of labile, stable and Stuart-Prower factors (factors V, VII and X). The effect of a transfusion can usually be measured by simple tests such as the prothrombin time and the prothrombin consumption time. To correct thrombocytopenia by transfusion, platelet-rich plasma should be given. Whole blood should only be used when the bleeding is massive and continuous or if the hemoglobin is very low. Transfusion of either whole blood or plasma into patients who have congenital or acquired anticoagulants in the blood, such as heparin or antithromboplastinogen (AHG or factor VIII), is ineffective and is likely to accentuate particularly the latter condition.
Recent population changes in HbA(1c) and fasting insulin concentrations among US adults with preserved glucose homeostasis.

Aims/hypothesis Although diagnosed type 2 diabetes has increased in the past decade, little is known about accompanying changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), HbA1c and fasting serum insulin (FI) levels in the non-diabetic population.
A Mueller-Lyer illusion induced by selective attention

Subjects estimated the length of a horizontal line which was flanked by oblique angles pointing both inside and outside (this figure would be created by superimposing the wings-in and wings-out figures of the Mueller–Lyer illusion). Ignoring the outside wings resulted in an underestimation of the line length of comparable magnitude to that obtained for the wings-in Mueller–Lyer figure. Ignoring the inside wings caused an overestimation of the line length only when the inner and outer wings were of non-corresponding orientations. These results emphasize the role of cognitive factors in the Mueller–Lyer illusion.
Double-strand breaks and translocations in cancer

The correct repair of double-strand breaks (DSBs) is essential for the genomic integrity of a cell, as inappropriate repair can lead to chromosomal rearrangements such as translocations. In many hematologic cancers and sarcomas, translocations are the etiological factor in tumorigenesis, resulting in either the deregulation of a proto-oncogene or the expression of a fusion protein with transforming properties. Mammalian cells are able to repair DSBs by pathways involving homologous recombination and nonhomologous end-joining. The analysis of translocation breakpoints in a number of cancers and the development of model translocation systems are beginning to shed light on specific DSB repair pathway(s) responsible for the improper repair of broken chromosomes.
Evolving ideals of male body image as seen through action toys

Objective We hypothesized that the physiques of male action toys — small plastic figures used by children in play — would provide some index of evolving American cultural ideals of male body image. Method We obtained examples of the most popular American action toys manufactured over the last 30 years. We then measured the waist, chest, and bicep circumference of each figure and scaled these measurements using classical allometry to the height of an actual man (1.78 m). Results We found that the figures have grown much more muscular over time, with many contemporary figures far exceeding the muscularity of even the largest human bodybuilders. Discussion Our observations appear to represent a “male analog” of earlier studies examining female dolls, such as Barbie. Together, these studies of children's toys suggest that cultural expectations may contribute to body image disorders in both sexes. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 26: 65–72, 1999.
A Calibration Procedure for a Bone Loading System

Trabecular bone tissue is a three-dimensional structure that is difficult to duplicate with in vitro cell cultures or animal models. In an attempt to better understand the underlying mechanisms of tissue response to load, a system to load isolated bone preparations was developed. This ex vivo bone culture and loading system, given the name of ZETOS, compressively loads trabecular bone (10 mm diameter, 5.0 mm height) to evaluate its morphological and physiological responses while keeping cells viable. Compliance of the system may change with time, thus requiring recalibration. The purpose of this research was to develop and validate a recalibration protocol for the ZETOS system. Ten reference bodies (RBs) were designed and machined out of aluminum 7075-T6, with a structural rigidity range representative of trabecular bone (0.628‐28.3 N /m, or apparent elastic modulus of 40 MPa‐1.80 GPa). Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to calculate the rigidity of each RB and was validated with physical testing in a universal testing machine. Results from FEA were then used to calibrate the system and relate force, piezoelectric actuator expansion, and specimen compressive deformation through a surface generated by spline interpolation, thus creating a calibration table. Calibration of ZETOS was verified by testing the RBs as well as three custom-made, metal springs and comparing measured rigidity to that calculated by FEA. Mean percent difference of FEA results with respect to those from physical testing was 3.28%. The mean percent difference of RB rigidity found with ZETOS with respect to rigidity found with FEA was 1.12% and for the metal springs, the mean percent difference was 1.74%. The calibration procedure for the ZETOS bone loading system has been successfully applied and verified. The use of RBs and FEA allows users to easily and periodically evaluate and recalibrate the system. Accuracy in studies of human bone mechanotransduction in a controlled environment can therefore be achieved. The recalibration procedure is relevant for other ZETOS users and may serve as the basis for calibration of other testing systems for small specimens of compliant materials. DOI: 10.1115/1.2889059
Market Structure and the Value of Agricultural Contingent Claims

In this paper, we evaluate the proposition that market structure, including supply and demand elasticities, plays a significant role in influencing equilibrium price dynamics. We show that the more inelastic the demand and/or supply of a commodity is, the more price risk will be faced by producers of that commodity. In general one can expect greater volatility from commodities with both demand and supply being inelastic, and the least when they are both elastic. We illustrate how the elasticities of supply and demand can impact the prices of contingent claims on agricultural commodities including revenue insurance. Dans le present article, nous evaluons la proposition selon laquelle la structure de marche, y compris l'elasticite de l'offre et de la demande, influence la dynamique du prix d'equilibre. Nous montrons que plus la demande et/ou l'offre d'un produit de base est inelastique, plus les producteurs de ce produit de base sont confrontes au risque de prix. En general, on peut s'attendre a une forte volatilite des produits de base pour lesquels l'offre et la demande sont a la fois inelastiques, et a une faible volatilite lorsqu'elles sont elastiques. Nous faisons ressortir de quelle facon l'inelasticite de l'offre et de la demande peut influencer les reclamations eventuelles concernant des produits agricoles de base, y compris l'assurance−revenu.
Improved Timing with NaI(Tl)

By timing on the earliest component of the anode current pulse of the photomultiplier, the time resolution obtained with NaI(TI) at 300°K can be made somewhat superior to that reported for pure NaI at 77°K. For example, the time distribution for x rays (31. 6 keV) relative to the conversion electrons from a Cs137 source, shows a full width at half maximum of 1.6 nsec and a slope corresponding to a half life T? = 0.63 nsec. This implies that ? /R is much smaller than commonly believed, where ? is the mean life of the scintillation and R is the average number of photoelectrons per event. This small value is not due to a small ? because only the usual slow component is observed when the shape of the scintillation is measured by a probability technique. Therefore R must be larger than expected; the observed time resolution requires at least 8.7 photoelectrons/ keV. This is consistent with the value 9.3 p.e./ keV inferred from the pulse-height resolution obtained with artificial light pulses which are equivalent in amplitude to a 662-keV event in NaI(Tl). It is also consistent with the value (9. 1 p.e./keV) obtained by combining the absolute efficiency of NaI(Tl) measured by Van Sciver and Bogart with the quantum efficiency that RCA lists for the bi-alkali photocathode.
Custom impression trays. Part III: A stress distribution model

All resins used to make custom impression trays exhibit plastic deformation at some force value; therefore it is important to compare the physical property values of such materials with the stresses to which impression trays are subjected during dental procedures. A simple mathematical model of a custom tray was developed to predict stress distributions in this final part of a three-part investigation. Experimental stress analysis of such a tray confirmed the accuracy of the model, which was then used to predict the maximum stress experienced by the tray during removal of a completed impression from the oral cavity. The results of this analysis indicated that these stresses would be significantly lower than the yield stress for a commonly used polymethyl methacrylate resin or a light-polymerized resin. The stresses were also sufficiently low for us to conclude that thermoplastic resins would not permanently deform; however, the stresses encountered in the experimental confirmation procedure were close to the yield stress values for these materials.
Environmental N-nitroso compounds: Implications for public health

Abstract The existence of N -nitroso compounds in the environment-represents a specific instance exemplary of the most difficult attributes of the generic problem of environmental chemical health hazards. A large number of compounds are involved, and they or reactants capable of forming them are widely distributed. Currently available analytical techniques are capable of detecting only a small fraction of the spectrum of compounds possibly involved. Patterns of exposure probably range from short-term, high-level to long-term low-level. The various forms of cancer for which they are suspected to play a causative role occur after long latency periods and at relatively low absolute frequency in the general population. All of these factors make it difficult to establish cause and effect relationships between specific carcinogens and disease incidence. By virtue of the versatility and potency of this group of compounds in inducing cancer in different animals and in different tissues, it must be assumed that man will be susceptible to their carcinogenic actions. Assessment of public health risk must, therefore, be based primarily on evidence of exposure to preformed carcinogens or to reactants capable of forming them. Although sufficient evidence is a vailable to indicate a serious potential threat, further data will be required in several areas of the problem to establish the magnitude of this hazard as it actually exists.
Major complications of silicone penile prosthesis Predisposing clinical situations

Necrosis of the corpora cavernosa of the penis developed in 2 patients with diabetes mellitus complicated by significant vascular disease following insertion of a silicone penile prosthesis necessitating its removal. The surgical maneuvers thought to predispose to these complications will be considered.
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha induces clustering in ovarian theca-interstitial cells in vitro.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) has been implicated in the regulation of steroidogenesis in theca-interstitial cells (TIC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate any change in TIC morphology during the time course of TNF-induced inhibition of LH-stimulated androstenedione production. Ovaries from immature hypophysectomized rats were enzymatically digested and highly purified TIC were obtained by density gradient centrifugation. TIC treated with TNF (0.1-10 ng/ml) demonstrated distinct clustering in the presence and absence of LH (50 ng/ml). The number of clusters and the mean area per cluster were greatest after 4 days as a result of treatment with 1 or 10 ng TNF/ml. In addition, a dose-dependent inhibition of LH-supported androstenedione production was induced by TNF. TNF also inhibited LH-induced androstenedione in TIC after 2, 4, or 6 days of continuous LH treatment, and TIC clustering still occurred. TIC clustering was impeded by the protein kinase inhibitor H7 at 10 microM; however, the protein...
Undoped and chromium-doped semi-insulating GaAs photoconductive detectors

Abstract The effects of optical power, pulse width and temperature on the photoresponse of semi-insulating GaAs photoconductive detectors fabricated on both undoped and chromium-doped substrates have been investigated. Devices on both types of substrates show no increase in photocurrent with pulse width but do show increases of up to 160 times in photoresponse as the temperature is lowered below 120K. Both types of detectors showed a linear response of photocurrent to incident optical power. This behavior is discussed in terms of the deep-level traps Cr and EL2 interacting with the quasi-Fermi levels of the illuminated detector.
False Positive Exposure Errors and Low Exposure Prevalence in Community-Based Case-Control Studies

Abstract The community-based case-control study (CBCC) offers a potentially efficient strategy for identifying putative causes of disease and has special relevance to the surveillance of occupationally related diseases such as cancer. The primary limitation in using the CBCC design for surveillance purposes is that defining exposure is highly prone to error. This paper quantifies the bias to the odds ratio caused by nondifferential exposure misclassification under a range of conditions common to occupational studies. When the exposure prevalence is low (< 10%), a condition common to community-based occupational and other case-control studies, and assuming nondifferential misclassification, false positive exposure errors (i.e., nonexposed are classified as exposed) are the principal source of bias to the odds ratio. In contrast, even a relatively large number of false negative exposure errors results in negligible bias. Knowledge of the major source of bias to the odds ratio offers the means to develop spe...
SU-FF-T-311: Monte-Carlo Calculation of Integral Dose for Gamma Knife Treatment Planning

Purpose: The ratio of Integral Dose (ID) has been found useful in support of DVH for Gammaknife (GK) treatment plan. A common ID calculation method is based on counting number of voxels within the target, but its accuracy is constrained by the grid size of the GK treatment planning system (TPS). The Monte‐Carlo method is not only a macroscopic approach to calculate the dose distribution, but also can be used to calculate the ID of the tumor target and the critical structures with higher resolution — resulting in more accurate ID assessment. The purpose of this study was to apply a Monte‐Carlo method to calculate the ID based on the analytical GK model. Furthermore, the ID of the plugged patterns, which improve the conformality of treatment plan, was evaluated by the Monte‐Carlo method. Method and Materials: A GK phantom model was used to calculate the dose distribution for the GK treatment plan. A C‐shaped target with a central cylindrical critical normal tissue was created, and the critical region was expanded in different directions. The Monte‐Carlo method was used to calculate the ID for differentially expanded critical regions. Blocking patterns of GK plans were optimized based on the ID of the critical regions. Results: Three blocking patterns of the GK treatment plan were generated by 5mm expansion of the critical region. Using the ID calculated by Monte‐Carlo method as an objective function, blocking pattern of each shot varies 10 to 20%, suggesting that blocking patterns are sensitive to the ID for the regions of interest. Conclusion: Accurate ID calculation is feasible for GK plans with the Monte‐Carlo method. Beam geometry information is included in the ID calculation, and the variation of critical regions can be reflected on the blocking patterns of the treatment plan. This concept can be expanded to other TPS.
Efficacy of methylnaltrexone versus naloxone for reversal of morphine-induced depression of hypoxic ventilatory response

Methylnaltrexone (MNTX) is a quaternary derivative of naltrexone. It does not cross the blood-brain barrier and, thus, it reverses peripherally mediated effects of morphine without blocking its centrally located analgesic effects. The effects of MNTX on morphine-induced depression of hypoxic ventilatory response are unknown. We evaluated the efficacy of MNTX, compared with naloxone, in reversing this effect. On three sessions separated by a week, 10 healthy male volunteers received morphine, 0.125 mg/kg, as a bolus at 20 min after completing a control hypoxic ventilatory challenge. At 60 min, naloxone, 5 micrograms/kg, MNTX, 0.3 mg/kg, or placebo was administered in a randomized double-blind order. Four isocapnic hypoxic ventilatory challenges were conducted: 0 min (control), 40 min (postmorphine), and 80 and 120 min (postreversal) and the hypoxic respiratory responses were recorded. Morphine administration was associated with a significant depression in hypoxic responses: The slope of the response (L/min/Spo2) and the predicted ventilation at 80% O2 saturation (VE80) (L/min) decreased significantly in the three sessions (P < 0.05). Naloxone injection reversed the respiratory depression at 80 min (85% of the control value of the slope and 89% of VE80), whereas MNTX and placebo did not. At 120 min, the slope (69%) and VE80 (80%) after naloxone administration were not significantly different from control. MNTX slope (69%) was not statistically different from the control, whereas VE80 (70%) was still depressed (P < 0.05). Placebo slope and VE80, at 120 min, remained lower than the control (P < 0.05). These data show that MNTX is not as effective as naloxone for reversal of morphine-mediated depression of respiration during acute hypoxia.
Nonperturbative Effects in 2D String Theory or, Beyond the Liouville Wall

We discuss continuous and discrete sectors in the collective field theory of D = 1 matrix models. A canonical Lorentz-invariant field theory extension of collective field theory is presented and its classical solutions in Euclidean and Minkowski space are found. We show that the discrete, low density sector of collective field theory includes single eigenvalue Euclidean instantons which tunnel between different vacua of the extended theory. We further show that these "stringy" instantons induce nonperturbative effective operators of strength in the extended theory. The relationship of the world sheet description of string theory and Liouville theory to the effective space–time theory is explained. We also comment on the role of the discrete, low density, sector of collective field theory in that framework.
What counts as "good" quantitative research and what can we say about when to use quantitative and/or qualitative methods?

Abstract In response to points raised by Dawson, Fischer, and Stein; Stam; and Stiles, the author delineates what counts as “good” quantitative research according to his proposal for explicitly interpretive quantitative methods. The key points concern how to employ these methods, not which quantitative methods we should use—“strong” rather than “soft” or vice versa. The author discusses ways in which what others would consider “strong” quantitative procedures can be extremely useful, although he argues that these procedures are interpretive. The reconceptualization of quantitative research offered here also suggests that the distinction between quantitative and qualitative research is much less fundamental than most researchers think. In a consideration of what we can say in general about when to employ quantitative and/or qualitative methods, the author returns to the theme of the limits of possible understanding in psychology.
Anomalous length dependence of the quantum yield in artificial photosynthetic systems

Abstract We show that the quantum yield in an artificial N-site photosynthetic system can be calculated exactly if e−-hole recombination is allowed from the light absorber only. It is then demonstrated that the distribution of hopping rates determined the N dependence of the quantum yield and may give rise to a faster than 1/N decay of the quantum yield.
Prions: a piece of the puzzle?

![Figure][1] CREDIT: MEHMET ALI CIDA/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM In his Perspective “A unifying role for prions in neurodegenerative diseases” (22 June, p. [1511][2]), S. B. Prusiner proposes that Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prion disorder ([ 1 ][3]). News publications have speculated that AD may
Effects of labial margin design on stress distribution of a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown.

Purpose This study compared the stress distribution of three porcelain-fused-to-metal labial margins on a central incisor under simulated occlusal force. Materials and Methods The margin designs were rounded-shoulder, rounded-shoulder with a bevel, and a chamfer. Results Evaluation of mean equivalent Mises tensile stress did not show any difference at the cement-dentin and metal-cement interfaces of the three margins. The mean equivalent Mises tensile stress at the porcelain-metal interface was found to be significantly higher for rounded-shoulder when compared with the chamfer. There was no significant difference in the axial stresses along the three interfaces among the three margin designs. Statistically significant differences in radial stresses at some interfaces of the three margin designs were found. Conclusions The change of cement thickness of the chamfer margin is significantly greater than that of either the rounded-shoulder or the bevelled-shoulder margin.
Endpoints of Resuscitation for the Victim of Trauma

Useful resuscitation endpoints must serve both to diagnose the need for and to ensure the ongoing adequacy of resuscitation. To this end, traditional measures of organ perfusion are now widely appreciated to be grossly inadequate. Useful endpoints or milestones range from the global, to the regional, to the cellular specific. Understanding the basic principles of perfusion-related dysoxia in trauma and hemorrhage and its potential rapid transition to involve inflammatory and immune responses on cellular oxygen utilization will aid the clinician in choosing and appropriately interpreting endpoint monitoring data. There also appears to be an optimal window of opportunity for monitoring to help mitigate the development of more complicated inflammatory states. This article reviews the underlying need for endpoint selection (both global and regional, biochemical and functional) and monitoring during resuscitation of the polytrauma patient. At this juncture it appears that early use of a blend of global markers...
The cell lineage of the sternopleura in Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract Larvae of Drosophila melanogaster were irradiated with X-rays to induce somatic crossing over resulting in genetically marked mosaic areas. Mosaic sternopleural sclerites were associated with mosaic mesonta in frequencies compatible with random association. Association of mosaic sternopleurae and mosaic legs was significantly more frequent than accountable by chance. It is concluded that the sternopleura is always derived from the ventral, not from the dorsal, disk. Apparently differing results of earlier authors are reinterpreted in terms of embryonic indetermination as contrasted to larval determination of prospective imaginal areas.
Effectiveness of Yohimbine in the Treatment of Erectile Disorder: Four Meta-Analytic Integrations

The results of four independent yet convergent meta-analyses to examine the efficacy of yohimbine in the treatment of erectile disorder are reported. These meta-analyses integrated data from (i) controlled clinical trials of yohimbine (when used alone), (ii) uncontrolled trials examining yohimbine (alone), (iii) controlled trials of yohimbine when used in combination with other drugs, and (iv) uncontrolled trials of yohimbine plus other drugs. Results document a consistent tendency for yohimbine, and for other medications containing yohimbine, to enhance erectile functioning relative to placebo. We also identify methodological and reporting difficulties that characterize much of the literature.
DLP switched blaze grating: the heart of optical signal processing

We have developed an approach for processing communication signals in the optical domain using a DLP digital mirror array driven by a Digital Signal Processor (DSP). In optical communication systems, modulation rates of 10 GB/s and above are common, hence, direct processing of Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexed (DWDM) optical signals without undergoing Optical to Electrical conversion has become a key requirement for cost effective deployment of dynamic optical networks. This work will discuss primarily applications of Optical Signal Processing (OSP) to coherent DWDM signals. Optical Signal Processing has also found applications in spectroscopy, microscopy, sensing, optical correlation, and testing.
Mutual diffusion of interacting membrane proteins

The generalized Stokes-Einstein equation is used, together with the two-dimensional pressure equation, to analyze mutual diffusion in concentrated membrane systems. These equations can be used to investigate the role that both direct and hydrodynamic interactions play in determining diffusive behavior. Here only direct interactions are explicitly incorporated into the theory at high densities; however, both direct and hydrodynamic interactions are analyzed for some dilute solutions. We look at diffusion in the presence of weak attractions, soft repulsions, and hard-core repulsions. It is found that, at low densities, attractions retard mutual diffusion while repulsions enhance it. Mechanistically, attractions tend to tether particles together and oppose the dissipation of gradients or fluctuations in concentration, while repulsions provide a driving force that pushes particles apart. At higher concentrations, changes in the structure of the fluid enhance mutual diffusion even in the presence of attractions. It is shown that the theoretical description of postelectrophoresis relaxation and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy experiments must be modified if interacting systems are studied. The effects of interactions on mutual diffusion coefficients have probably already been seen in postelectrophoresis relaxation experiments.
Affective Responses and Exposure to Frightening Films: The Role of Empathy and Different Types of Content

Young adults (N = 172) completed questionnaires that measured empathy, affective responses and exposure to frightening films, and perceptions of how aspects of scary content (suffering, danger, excitement, and a happy ending) affect enjoyment. Empathic concern was associated with less enjoyment of suffering, but more enjoyment of danger, excitement, and happy endings. Enduring negative affect was associated with higher personal distress and less enjoyment of suffering. Exposure to frightening films was associated with lower personal distress, more enjoyment of danger, and less enjoyment of happy endings. Interpretations of the findings are discussed.
Multi-Gb/s Optoelectronic Interconnection System

A new initiative, which has just received National Science Foundation support, has been undertaken in collaboration with the Center for Telecommunications Research at Columbia University. This project is to design and build a multi-Gb/s optoelectronic data transport network using self-routing packets in a multi-hop network. The single electronic word packet payloads are highly compressed using optical techniques, and remain optical from source to target while traversing the switching nodes. Optical packet switching is performed with custom LiNbO3 directional coupler switches. A lean, self-routing hot potato protocol avoids the need for data storage at the switching nodes and provides a fixed node latency equivalent to a few meters of fiber. Sustainable throughput both in to and out of the electronic host at each node should exceed 1 Gb/s, with higher speed bursts. Some technical details of the optical data packet compression and decompression schemes, the hot potato switching protocol, and the wrap-around shuffle-exchange interconnection network will be given. The project timetable anticipates a lower speed, proof-of-principle four node network in three years, and a higher speed, larger, engineering demonstration in five years.
Elevated Circulating Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide in Umbilical Cord and Infant Blood Associated with Maternal and Neonatal Sepsis and Shock

The role of the sensory neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) was studied in preterm and term neonates with sepsis and shock. CGRP levels in blood were measured by RIA. The identity of immunoreactive CGRP (irCGRP) in adult and infant human blood was confirmed by reverse phase-HPLC. CGRP levels were analyzed in a total of 189 samples (95 from cord blood and 94 from neonates). The gestational ages ranged from 24 to 43 wk, and the birth weights ranged from 520 to 4445 g. Cord samples were collected immediately after delivery and infant blood samples were collected within 12 h of birth. Samples were coded, and the data were assigned to groups after determination of CGRP levels. There was a weight- and gestation-dependent increase in irCGRP in the newborn population. The direct correlation of circulating CGRP with ascending birth weight and gestation may have significance in the development of the fetus. Infants with and without certain complications were grouped in 500-g intervals. CGRP levels in cord blood were significantly elevated when certain stressful situations existed in the mother. These included culture-positive chorioamnionitis, placental abruption, and severe preeclampsia. There was a similar elevation in CGRP in patient blood in infants with culture-positive sepsis and/or shock with blood pressure <2 SD from the mean for corresponding gestation. CGRP levels did not differ between male and female infants and did not appear to be influenced by type of delivery (vaginal versus cesarean section). There was no significant difference in CGRP level between cord and patient blood in preterm neonates, but at term gestation cord blood levels were slightly higher than those in the patient blood. These results suggest that inflammation and hemodynamic imbalance (e.g. shock) are associated with increased in CGRP levels in the circulation in neonates. Future studies will focus on the biologic effects of elevated CGRP during neonatal complications and will examine the utility of CGRP measurement for diagnosis and treatment of disease in preterm infants.
Intestinal Development: I. Morphogenesis of the Villi and Musculature

The work of D9Arcy Thompson is a classic example of the insight into morphogenesis that may be gained by a thoughtful consideration of adult form. Even greater insight into the factors underlying morphogenesis might accrue from a detailed study, not only of the adult stage, but also of the intermediate period of development. An attack at this level would, at the very least, yield an account of events whose ordering in time would suggest certain causal sequences and exclude others. Many organs reveal strikingly simple changes in geometric form during development. These structures provide an opportunity to investigate the role of various factors in the genesis of adult form. We have selected one such organ, the duodenum of the chick embryo, for a series of investigations into the role of mechanical factors in intestinal morphogenesis.
Fatty Heart and Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction Rediscovery of a Pathological Metabolic Process: With a Twist

> Those who have dissected or inspected many [bodies] have at least learnt to doubt; while others who are ignorant of anatomy and do not take the trouble to attend it are in no doubt at all. > > Giovanni B. Morgagni > > The beginning of knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand. > > Frank Herbert Fatty degeneration of the human heart was first reported by the French cardiologist Corvisart more 200 years ago in 1806,1 while the first distinction of epicardial/pericardial fat from intramyocardial fat was made by the German physician scientist Virchow in 1858.2 Interest in these observations and their cardiovascular consequences continue to grow as techniques for noninvasive assessment of pericardial and intramyocardial fat improve. The amount of fat stored in nonadipocyte tissue (liver and muscle) is usually minimal and tightly regulated; however, recent studies have reported cardiac steatosis in human metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome.3–5 Mahmod et al,6 in this issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging , compared 39 subjects with symptomatic (64%) and asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) to 20 healthy controls and found increased myocardial fat in patients with AS. Using 1H-magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy, the authors measured myocardial triglyceride content (MTC) and reported that patients with symptomatic AS had the highest level of MTC as compared with asymptomatic patients and healthy control subjects. MTC values correlated inversely with regional myocardial function using circumferential and longitudinal strain obtained by myocardial tagging methods, with a gradation between the control, asymptomatic AS, and symptomatic AS groups. The authors were able to show a modest correlation of MTC with myocyte lipid content on biopsy samples of a subgroup of patients who underwent surgery ( r s =0.66; P =0.036).6 Most importantly, the authors demonstrated near complete …
Beam Intensity Increases at the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source Accelerator

The Intense Pulsed Neutron Source (IPNS) accelerator system has managed a 40% increase in time average beam current over the last two years. Currents of up to 15.6 ?A (3.25 × 1012 protons at 30 Hz) have been successfully accelerated and cleanly extracted. Our high current operation demands low loss beam handling to permit hands-on maintenance. Synchrotron beam handling efficiencies of 90% are routine. A new H- ion source which was installed in March of 1983 offered the opportunity to get above 8 ?A but an instability caused unacceptable losses when attempting to operate at 10 ?A and above. Simple techniques to control the instabilities were introduced and have worked well. These techniques are discussed below. Other improvements in the regulation of various power supplies have provided greatly improved low energy orbit stability and contributed substantially to the increased beam current. These improvements are discussed in a paper1 presented at this conference.
Traction estimation and control for Mobile Robots using the wheel slip velocity

Mobile robots are used to venture through types of environments, at low wheel speeds, where wheel slip is a threat. We present a unique traction estimation algorithm for low speed applications that estimates traction loss by measuring the wheel slip velocity. We also propose a modified Kalman Filter that fuses a system model of a DC motor with an estimate of the disturbances acting on the system model. Using the wheel slip velocity we propose a traction control law for low speed applications that provides the ability of tracking a desired reference while mitigating traction loss.
High-performance liquid chromatographic and tandem mass spectrometric quantitation ofN7-methyldeoxyguanosine in methylated calf thymus DNA

Quantitation ofN7-methyldeoxyguanosine (N7-MedG) produced in thein vitro N-methyl-N-introsourea (NMU) action on calf thymus DNA has been achieved by enzymatic degradation, liquid chromatographic separation and desorption chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry. In conjunction with the resolving power of HPLC in the separation of isomers, desorption chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry has been utilized in determining modified nucleosides at low levels using a stable-isotope labeled compound as an established by an independent HPLC analysis of methylated calf thymus DNA. A sensitive and specific methodology for the quantitation ofN7-MedG at the picomole level using HPLC combined with tandem mass spectrometry without radioisotope labeling process is presented. The potential of the liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric analysis shows the detection ofN7-MedG as a possible marker for human exposure to methylating agentsin vitro.
The divergent eukaryote Trichomonas vaginalis has an m7G cap methyltransferase capable of a single N2 methylation

Eukaryotic RNAs typically contain 5' cap structures that have been primarily studied in yeast and metazoa. The only known RNA cap structure in unicellular protists is the unusual Cap4 on Trypanosoma brucei mRNAs. We have found that T. vaginalis mRNAs are protected by a 5' cap structure, however, contrary to that typical for eukaryotes, T. vaginalis spliceosomal snRNAs lack a cap and may contain 5' monophophates. The distinctive 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine (TMG) cap structure usually found on snRNAs and snoRNAs is produced by hypermethylation of an m(7)G cap catalyzed by the enzyme trimethylguanosine synthase (Tgs). Here, we biochemically characterize the single T. vaginalis Tgs (TvTgs) encoded in its genome and demonstrate that TvTgs exhibits substrate specificity and amino acid requirements typical of an RNA cap-specific, m(7)G-dependent N2 methyltransferase. However, recombinant TvTgs is capable of catalysing only a single round of N2 methylation forming a 2,7-dimethylguanosine cap (DMG) as observed previously for Giardia lamblia. In contrast, recombinant Entamoeba histolytica and Trypanosoma brucei Tgs are capable of catalysing the formation of a TMG cap. These data suggest the presence of RNAs with a distinctive 5' DMG cap in Trichomonas and Giardia lineages that are absent in other protist lineages.
In vitro comminution of model renal calculi using histotripsy

Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) suffers from the fact that it can produce residual stone fragments of significant size (>;2 mm). Mechanistically, cavitation has been shown to play an important role in the reduction of such fragments to smaller debris. In this study, we assessed the feasibility of using cavitationally-based pulsed ultrasound therapy (histotripsy) to erode kidney stones. Previous work has shown that histotripsy is capable of mechanically fractionating soft tissue into fine, acellular debris. Here, we investigated the potential for translating this technology to renal calculi through the use of a commonly accepted stone model. Stone models were sonicated using a 1-MHz focused transducer, with 5-cycle pulses delivered at a rate of 1 kHz. Pulses having peak negative pressures ranging from 3 to 21 MPa were tested. Results indicate that histotripsy is capable of effectively eroding the stone model, achieving an average stone erosion rate of 26 mg/min at maximum treatment pressure; substantial stone erosion was only observed in the presence of a dense cavitational bubble cloud. Sequential sieving of residual stone fragments indicated that debris produced by histotripsy was smaller than 100 μm in size, and treatment monitoring showed that both the cavitational bubble cloud and model stone appear as hyperechoic regions on B-mode imaging. These preliminary results indicate that histotripsy shows promise in its use for stone comminution, and an optimized erosion process may provide a potential adjunct to conventional SWL procedures.
Occurrence of Escherichia coli and enterococci in Cladophora (Chlorophyta) in nearshore water and beach sand of Lake Michigan

Each summer, the nuisance green alga Cladophora (mostly Cladophora glomerata) amasses along Lake Michigan beaches, creating nearshore anoxia and unsightly, malodorous mats that can attract problem animals and detract from visitor enjoyment. Traditionally, elevated counts of Escherichia coli are presumed to indicate the presence of sewage, mostly derived from nearby point sources. The relationship between fecal indicator bacteria and Cladophora remains essentially unstudied. This investigation describes the local and regional density of Escherichia coli and enterococci in Cladophora mats along beaches in the four states (Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan) bordering Lake Michigan. Samples of Cladophora strands collected from 10 beaches (n = 41) were assayed for concentrations of E. coli and enterococci during the summer of 2002. Both E. coli and enterococci were ubiquitous (up to 97% occurrence), with overall log mean densities (± standard errors) of 5.3 (± 4.8) and 4.8 (± 4.5) per g (dry weight). E. coli and enterococci were strongly correlated in southern Lake Michigan beaches (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.73, n = 17) but not in northern beaches (P = 0.892, n = 16). Both E. coli and enterococci survived for over 6 months in sun-dried Cladophora mats stored at 4°C; the residual bacteria in the dried alga readily grew upon rehydration. These findings suggest that Cladophora amassing along the beaches of Lake Michigan may be an important environmental source of indicator bacteria and call into question the reliability of E. coli and enterococci as indicators of water quality for freshwater recreational beaches.
Testing of Passive Energy Dissipation Systems

Abstract Over the period 1986 to 1991, seven different passive energy dissipation systems were studied in experimental research programs at the Earthquake Engineering Research Center of the University of California at Berkeley. This paper presents an overview of these studies, describing the different types of devices, the results of the shake table experiments, and associated analytical work. Four of the systems studied are friction systems, and of these, three (Sumitomo, Pall, and Friction‐Slip) are based on Coulomb friction. The fourth is the Fluor‐Daniel Energy Dissipating Restraint, which is a device capable of providing self‐centering friction resistance that is proportional to displacement. The three other systems all have different energy dissipation mechanisms: ADAS elements, which utilize the yielding of mild‐steel X‐plates; viscoelastic shear dampers using a 3M acrylic copolymer as the dissipative element; and Nickel‐Titanium alloy shape‐memory devices that take advantage of reversible, stress‐...
Xenopus chordin: A novel dorsalizing factor activated by organizer-specific homeobox genes

A Xenopus gene whose expression can be activated by the organizer-specific homeobox genes goosecoid and Xnot2 was isolated by differential screening. The chordin gene encodes a novel protein of 941 amino acids that has a signal sequence and four Cys-rich domains. The expression of chordin starts in Spemann's organizer subsequent to that of goosecoid, and its induction by activin requires de novo protein synthesis. Microinjection of chordin mRNA induces twinned axes and can completely rescue axial development in ventralized embryos. This molecule is a potent dorsalizing factor that is expressed at the right time and in the right place to regulate cell-cell interactions in the organizing centers of head, trunk, and tail development.
Influence of Study Features and Methods on Overdiagnosis Estimates in Breast and Prostate Cancer Screening

Knowledge of the likelihood that a screening-detected case of cancer has been overdiagnosed is vitally important to make treatment decisions and develop screening policy. An overdiagnosed case is an excess case detected by screening. Estimates of the frequency of overdiagnosis in breast and prostate cancer screening vary greatly across studies. This article identifies features of overdiagnosis studies that influence results and shows their effect by using published research. First, different ways to define and measure overdiagnosis are considered. Second, contextual features and how they affect overdiagnosis estimates are examined. Third, the effect of estimation approach is discussed. Many studies use excess incidence under screening as a proxy for overdiagnosis. Others use statistical models to make inferences about lead time or natural history and then derive the corresponding fraction of cases that are overdiagnosed. This article concludes with questions that readers of overdiagnosis studies can use to evaluate the validity and relevance of published estimates and recommends that authors of studies quantifying overdiagnosis provide information about these features.
AknT Is an Activating Protein for the Glycosyltransferase AknS in L-Aminodeoxysugar Transfer to the Aglycone of Aclacinomycin A

Summary During biosynthesis of the anthracycline antitumor agents daunomycin, adriamycin, and aclacinomycin, the polyketide-derived tetracyclic aglycone is enzymatically glycosylated at the C 7 -OH by dedicated glycosyltransferases (Gtfs) that transfer L-2,3,6-trideoxy-3-aminohexoses. In aclacinomycins, the first deoxyhexose is predicted to be transferred via AknS action, then subjected to further elongation to a trisaccharide by the subsequent Gtf, AknK. We report here that purified AknS has very low activity in the absence of the adjacently encoded AknT; however, at a 3:1 ratio, AknT stimulates AknS k cat by 40-fold up to 0.22 min −1 for transfer of L-2-deoxyfucose (2-dF) to the aglycone aklavinone. It is likely that several other Gtfs that glycosylate polyketide aglycones also act as two-component catalytic systems. Incubations of purified AknS/AknT/AknK with two aglycones and two dTDP-2-deoxyhexoses produced previously uncharacterized anthracycline disaccharides.