cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long-term follow-up of bypasses to the brachial artery across the shoulder joint

Background Most atherosclerotic lesions in the subclavian artery are successfully treated with carotid to subclavian bypass. The need to bypass to the brachial artery (BA) is rare. We reviewed our experience with this bypass. Methods Over a 10-year period, we have performed 13 bypasses to the BA originating from an artery proximal to the shoulder joint. In this retrospective study, the demographic and clinical risk factors were evaluated. Long-term results were analyzed. Results Thirteen operations were performed in 10 patients, aged 47 to 80 years. The operations were carried out for acute severe ischemia in 1 limb, effort discomfort in 9, and rest pain in 3 limbs. Donor arteries were axillary (7), carotid (4), and subclavian (2). All bypasses were to the BA proximal to the elbow joints. Life-table analysis showed 100% patency in the first 3 years and 88% at 7 years. There were 2 deaths in follow-up. Average preoperative brachial to brachial index was 0.59 and postoperative index was 1.1. In patients with bilateral occlusions, mean preoperative brachial artery pressure was 62 mm Hg, which improved to 142 mm Hg postoperatively. There were no neurological complications and no 30-day mortality. Conclusions Bypass across the shoulder joint to the BA using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) or vein is a safe operation with excellent long-term patency. The carotid artery can be used as a donor vessel without complications. Hypertension and female gender appear to be risk factors for extensive disease in proximal upper extremity arteries.
Is there an alternative to potassium arrest

Background. Mounting clinical and experimental evidence suggests that postoperative myocardial dysfunction is a frequent consequence of surgical global ischemia and reperfusion, despite our modern techniques of myocardial protection. The ubiquitous use of hyperkalemic depolarizing solutions in all forms of cardioplegia may be partly responsible for this phenomenon because of the known ongoing metabolic processes and damaging transmembrane ionic fluxes that occur at depolarized membrane potentials. Cardiac arrest at hyperpolarized potentials, the natural resting state of the heart, may avoid the shortcomings of depolarized arrest and provide an alternative means of myocardial protection. Methods. An adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channel opener, aprikalim, was used to induce hyperpolarized arrest. Aprikalim was able to produce sustained and reproducible electromechanical arrest that was reversible by reperfusion. Results. In isolated heart models, when compared with depolarized hyperkalemic arrest, hyperpolarized arrest afforded better protection from global normothermic ischemia and resulted in better postischemic recovery of function upon reperfusion. Preliminary studies in a porcine cardiopulmonary bypass model also have revealed that hyperpolarized arrest can be achieved in a model more closely approximating the clinical setting, and can effectively protect the heart during normothermic surgical global ischemia. Conclusions. Hyperpolarized cardiac arrest may offer an effective alternative to traditional potassium arrest.
Abstract 121: Novel epigenetic mechanisms of resveratrol regulation of PTEN/Akt pathway in prostate cancer

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Resveratrol (Res) (3,5,4′-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene), a natural compound found in grapes and berries, is one of the most promising diet-derived chemopreventive agent with potential chemotherapeutic capabilities. Chemopreventive and anticancer effects of Res may be exerted in part by modulating various components of the epigenetic machinery. We recently demonstrated that Res represses nucleosome remodeling and deacetylation (NuRD) co-repressor complex by inhibiting metastasis associated protein 1/ histone deacetylase 1 (MTA1/HDAC1) subunit, which plays an essential role in governing deacetylation of histone and non-histone proteins. Since Res-induced upregulation of tumor suppressor PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) is concomitant with MTA1-downregulation, we hypothesized that in the absence of Res MTA1 works in cooperation with PI3K/Akt survival pathways. We further hypothesized that Res-induced restoration of PTEN expression and function may occur by dual mechanism through MTA1/HDAC inhibition and regulation of miRNA network. Our data indicate that shRNA-mediated MTA1 knockdown in Du145 cells (wt PTEN) enhances acetylation of PTEN, and that HDAC inhibitor trichostatin (TSA) further potentiates PTEN acetylation. We also showed that Res treatment simultaneously decreases MTA1 and pAkt levels in LNCaP cells, the effect which is enhanced in combination with PI3K inhibitors, LY294002 and BEZ235. To further understand Res-induced MTA1-mediated epigenetic alterations, we analyzed MTA1-associated and Res-induced microRNA (miRNA, miR) changes in LNCaP cells expressing and silenced for MTA1 (shMTA1). Interestingly, Res downregulated miRs (oncomiRs) included members of miR17-92 cluster (miRs-17, 20a, 20b) and miRs 106a and 106b which target PTEN. These findings were further confirmed by real time PCR analysis which showed that Res specifically down-regulated these miRNAs in PCa cells (LNCaP and Du145) but not in normal prostate cell line RWPE-1. Direct interaction of miR-17, miR-20a and miR-106b with PTEN 3′UTR were analyzed in the presence and absence of Res using pmiRGLO luciferase reporter. In summary, we propose novel epigenetic mechanisms of Res regulation of PTEN/ Akt signaling through inhibition of MTA1/NuRD co-repressor complex and MTA1-associated miRNAs. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 121. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-121
Luteinizing hormone: Effects of uptake and metabolism of hexoses by luteinized rat ovaries☆

Abstract 1. 1. The administration of luteinizing hormone (LH) in vivo 30 min or 3 h prior to sacrifice stimulated the uptake of glucose and the production of lactic acid by minced luteinized rat ovaries during subsequent incubations in vitro. 2. 2. Minces incubated in the absence of glucose showed a small but reproducible stimulation of the production of lactic acid by LH pretreatment. The amount of lactic acid produced was only one-third that produced in the presence of 1 mg/ml glucose. 3. 3. The conversion of pyruvic acid to lactic acid was not stimulated by LH. The oxygen consumption of the minced ovaries was not significantly affected by the administration of LH nor by the addition of glucose to the incubation medium. No effect of LH or insulin added in vitro, singly or together, could be detected. 4. 4. The administration of LH 3 h prior to sacrifice enabled the ovary to maintain a higher concentration of glucose and galactose in the tissue water. 5. 5. The acid-soluble metabolites of [14C6]glucose and [2-14C]galactose were separated by chromatography on columns of Dowex-1-formate. The production of [14C]lactic acid from [14C6]glucose was linear throughout the incubation in both control and LH-treated minces but LH-treatment significantly increased the slope of lactate production over that of the controls. The incorporation of 14C into acetate reached a maximum within 15 min and remained constant between 15 min and 1 h in both LH and control vessels. However, the amount of [14C]acetate produced in LH-treated slices was almost double that in control slices at all time intervals tested.
Isolation of a Staphylococcus aureus β-lactamase-dicloxacillin complex and kinetic studies on the reactivation of the enzyme

Abstract Exposure of the β-lactamase from Staphylococcus aureus to the slowly reacting substrates cloxacillin or dicloxacillin results in time-dependent inactivation of the enzyme. Methods for the rapid separation of a β-lactamase-dicloxacillin complex from excess inhibitor, using centrifuged columns of Sephadex G-25 or DEAE-Sephadex G-25, are described. The enzyme-dicloxacillin complex releases active enzyme, with specific activity identical to that of untreated enzyme, after storage at pH 7.5 at 15 °C. Full reactivation was accompanied by the release of 0.8 eq of hydrolyzed dicloxacillin. The complex is stable for up to 40 h when stored at pH 3 at 4 °C. The reactivation process, which occurs with first-order kinetics at 15 °C and pH values between 4 and 8, displays a pH dependence with apparent p K a 's of 4.6 and 8.5, and a limiting value of the reactivation rate constant of 0.022 min −1 . Deviation from first-order kinetics at pH 9 is consistent with a competing irreversible inactivation of the enzyme at that pH. This behavior differs substantially from that of the similarly inactivated β-lactamase I from Bacillus cereus , whose rate of reactivation is independent of pH, but which undergoes irreversible denaturation at acidic pH [ A. L. Fink, K. M. Behner, and A. K. Tan (1987) Biochemistry 26 , 4248–4258 ]. Addition of hydroxylamine to the S. aureus β-lactamase-dicloxacillin complex stimulates the rate of reactivation by a maximum of 35%. This effect is hyperbolically dependent on the concentration of hydroxylamine with half-maximal stimulation at 2.8 m m . The K M for ampicillin hydrolysis catalyzed by the partially reactivated enzyme is identical to that measured for catalysis by the untreated enzyme. We discuss our observations in relation to models for the transient inhibition process.
Polymer combustion and flammability—Role of the condensed phase∘

The combustion process of polymers is a complex coupling of energy feedback from a flame to thepolymer surface with gasification of the polymer to generate combustible degradation products. Although there are extensive studies of the effects of wind velocity, gas phase oxygen concentration, external thermal radiation, and gravity on the combustion of polymers, the effects of polymer characteristics on combustion and flammability are not nearly as well understood as those in the gas phase. At present, detailed governing equations for continuity, momentum, energy, and chemical species concentration in the gas phase can readily be written with appropriate boundary conditions, and their solutions can be derived for various cases. However, even those governing equations cannot be derived for the condensed phase without understanding of the governing chemical and physical processes that control the gasification of polymers. This paper concentrates on describing various observed phenomena in polymers (which have been often ignored or neglected) during their combustion, some or all of which might have significant effects on the burning rate and flammability properties. Because of a lack of understanding of the basic combustion mechanisms of polymers, theoretical models able to predict combustion phenomena and flammability properties are not available. In order to overcome this problem, global material characteristics are currently measured by well-defined test methods, and the results are used as inputs to fire growth models intended to predict behavior of the materials in specific fire scenarios. To improve the fire performance of polymers, a nonhalogenated char-forming flame-retardant approach is suggested, and its benefits are discussed.
A Social Constructionist Reconfiguration of Metaphor Analysis: An Application of "SCMA" to Organizational Socialization Theorizing.

This article details a social constructionist reconfiguration of metaphor analysis (SCMA) that is advanced as a powerful, reflexive analytic tool for discourse—centered social constructionist investigations. We begin by delineating the general assumptions of social constructionism. Next we document the importance of reflexivity, second—order constructionism, and discourse to the social constructionist, together with the growing relevance of post—modernist/structuralist arguments that variously advance resistance to discursive closure. Cumulatively, our delineations highlight the need for specific analytic methods capable of addressing the discursive construction of conceptual and theoretical orders. We then argue that with some reconfiguration metaphor analysis can be advanced as one such analytic method. We then reconfigure metaphor analysis to produce SCMA and in the latter half of the article, apply it to a body of organizational socialization texts. Our application demonstrates both the general utilit...
Off-diagonal long-range order in fractional quantum-Hall-effect states.

L'influence d'un desordre sur le comportement critique de 4 He superfluide est etudie par le confinement de l'helium dans des pores de trois milieux poreux differents: le Vycor, le xerogel et l'aerogel. Pour chaque cas un comportement bien defini de la loi de puissance est observe a l'approche de la temperature de transition. Dans le Vycor, l'exposant critique superfluide s'apparente au volume, tandis que dans les deux autres milieux on observe des exposants critiques differents
Pharmacological characterization of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF): implications for GDNF as a therapeutic molecule for treating neurodegenerative diseases

This review presents a comprehensive survey of the recently described pharmacological activities of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor on the central nervous system.
Executable Requirements for Visualization Design

We describe a methodology that integrates Cognitive System Engineering (CSE) and system development processes. The methodology is designed to result in a tight integration of CSE into the overall system development process; in contrast to other methods in which CSE is treated as a separate, but directive, activity of system development. The centerpiece of our methodology is the development of executable requirements. This involves explicitly relating cognitive and perceptual work elements to system requirements, modeling the work needed to satisfy each requirement and then basing visualization concepts on these hybrid requirements. The methodology currently is being used to define a visualization system for assessment within Air and Space Operations Centers.
Carlquist revisited: history, success, and applicability of a natural history model

In 1966, island biogeographer Sherwin Carlquist published a list of 24 principles governing long-distance dispersal and evolution on islands. The 24 principles describe many aspects of island biology, from long-distance dispersal and establishment to community change and assemblage. Although this was an active period for island biogeography, other models and research garnered much more attention than did Carlquist’s. In this review, over 40 years of support for or against Carlquist’s principles is presented. Recent work has supported most of the 24 principles, and improved methodologies have generally substantiated his initial claims. However, Carlquist’s original work and ideas remain relatively under-represented in the biogeographic literature. Use of philosophical model domains provides one explanation as to why Carlquist’s work has received little attention. Carlquist’s principles are largely natural history tests, and don’t translate well into the theoretical, design of preserves, or the experimental domains—whereas other competing models do well in such domains.
Studies on the role of deoxyribonuclease in T2 bacteriophage development

Abstract Various metabolic agents (cyanide, β-2-thienylalanine, and proflavin) did not bring about increase of DNase activity in uninfected E. coli. Metabolic inhibitors (Chloromycetin, thienylalanine, proflavin, cobalt, increased pH, and cyanide), were applied to cells infected with T2. The results showed that DNase activation results only from phage infection, and also that DNase activation is correlated with phage DNA formation. DNase activation was shown to occur in synthetic media, as well as in nutrient broth. The activation of DNase by T2 seems to be specifically caused by the injection of some part of the phage contents since ultraviolet-irradiated phages (u.v.-phages) bring about the activation, but osmotically shocked phages (ghosts) do not. Furthermore, some sort of metabolism requiring an energy source must be occurring to activate the DNase, since infection of cyanide-poisoned cells or infection in non-nutrient medium brings about no activation. Activated DNase may not function in the catabolism of the host cell DNA since there was no breakdown of this material after infection with u.v.-phages, although DNase was activated- It was shown that there is no formation of phage DNA (containing 5-hydroxymethylcytosine) after infection with u.v.-phages. A comparison of the conditions for activation of DNase and for occurrence of the breakdown of superinfecting phage indicate that DNase participates in the “superinfecting breakdown” phenomenon. Other possible roles of the activated DNase were discussed.
Giant bone island computed tomography findings

Although bone island is a well-known benign skeletal entity, it may stimulate an aggressive bone forming neoplasm when it is large. Spiculated margin intermingling with thickened trabeculae together with the lack of bone destruction and soft tissue mass on computed tomography scan is diagnostic.
Inflammation-induced changes in peripheral glutamate receptor populations.

The ionotropic glutamate receptors N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and kainate (KA) have been localized on subpopulations of unmyelinated and myelinated sensory axons in normal skin. Behavioral studies indicate that activation of these receptors results in nociceptive behaviors and contributes to inflammatory pain. The goal of the present study was to determine if these glutamate receptors might contribute to the peripheral hypersensitivity observed in inflammation. The major findings were that 48 h following complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammation, the proportions of unmyelinated axons labeled for NMDA, AMPA or KA receptors were 61%, 43% and 48%, respectively, in cutaneous nerves in the inflamed paw compared to 48%, 22% and 27%, respectively, in the non-inflamed paw. The proportions of myelinated axons labeled for NMDA, AMPA or KA receptors were 61%, 61% and 43%, respectively, compared to 43%, 42% and 28%, respectively, in the non-inflamed hindpaw. These increases were all significant. These data indicate that the number of sensory axons containing ionotropic glutamate receptors increases during inflammation, and this may be a contributing factor to peripheral sensitization in inflammation.
Homologues of neisserial heme oxygenase in gram-negative bacteria: degradation of heme by the product of the pigA gene of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The oxidative cleavage of heme to release iron is a mechanism by which some bacterial pathogens can utilize heme as an iron source. The pigA gene of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is shown to encode a heme oxygenase protein, which was identified in the genome sequence by its significant homology (37%) with HemO of Neisseria meningitidis. When the gene encoding the neisserial heme oxygenase, hemO, was replaced with pigA, we demonstrated that pigA could functionally replace hemO and allow for heme utilization by neisseriae. Furthermore, when pigA was disrupted by cassette mutagenesis in P. aeruginosa, heme utilization was defective in iron-poor media supplemented with heme. This defect could be restored both by the addition of exogenous FeSO4, indicating that the mutant did not have a defect in iron metabolism, and by in trans complementation with pigA from a plasmid with an inducible promoter. The PigA protein was purified by ion-exchange chromotography. The UV-visible spectrum of PigA reconstituted with heme showed characteristics previously reported for other bacterial and mammalian heme oxygenases. The heme-PigA complex could be converted to ferric biliverdin in the presence of ascorbate, demonstrating the need for an exogenous reductant. Acidification and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of the ascorbate reduction products identified a major product of biliverdin IX-β. This differs from the previously characterized heme oxygenases in which biliverdin IX-α is the typical product. We conclude that PigA is a heme oxygenase and may represent a class of these enzymes with novel regiospecificity.
Isolation of aminopeptidases from Histoplasma capsulatum

Two aminopeptidases (arylamidases) were isolated and partially purified from Histoplasma capsulatum. The larger molecular weight enzyme was a proline iminopeptidase and hydrolyzed primarily a synthetic substrate, L-prolyl-β-napthylamide. The other aminopeptidase was less substrate specific and hydrolyzed rapidly the following amino acid β-napthylamides (βNA): L-arginyl-βNA > L-lysyl-βNA > L-4-Methoxy-leucyl-βNA > L-leucyl-βNA > L-phenylalanyl-βNA>L-alanyl-βNA. The proline iminopeptidase was purified 1420 fold while the leucine aminopeptidase was purified 650 fold with good recovery.
Design Thinking in Argumentation Theory and Practice

This essay proposes a design perspective on argumentation, intended as complementary to empirical and critical scholarship. In any substantive domain, design can provide insights that differ from those provided by scientific or humanistic perspectives. For argumentation, the key advantage of a design perspective is the recognition that humanity’s natural capacity for reason and reasonableness can be extended through inventions that improve on unaided human intellect. Historically, these inventions have fallen into three broad classes: logical systems, scientific methods, and disputation frameworks. Behind each such invention is a specifiable “design hypothesis”: an idea about how to decrease error or how to increase the quality of outcomes from reasoning. As problems in contemporary argumentation practice become more complex, design thinking rises in relevance and importance. A design research agenda in argumentation would focus on theorizing design innovations (such as advanced patterns of argumentation) and on evaluating design hypotheses (such as proposals for how to incorporate expert opinion into public decision-making).
CO2-expanded liquid deposition of ligand-stabilized nanoparticles as uniform, wide-area nanoparticle films

Deposition of nanoparticles into uniform, wide-area thin films using CO2 as an antisolvent is presented. Ligand-stabilized silver particles are controllably precipitated from organic solvents by pressurizing and expanding the solution with carbon dioxide. Subsequent addition of carbon dioxide as a dense supercritical fluid provides for removal of the organic solvent while avoiding the surface tensions common to evaporating solvents that are detrimental to nanoscale assemblies and structures. This brand new CO2-expanded liquid particle deposition technique allows for the targeted deposition of particles and results in more uniform and lower defect metal nanoparticle thin films than are provided by conventional solvent evaporation techniques.
Pregnancy recognition in ruminants, pigs and horses: Signals from the trophoblast

Abstract Interferon tau (IFNτ), secreted by trophectoderm of sheep, cow and goat conceptuses (embryo and associated membranes), is the pregnancy recognition signal. The 172 AA mature IFNτ protein with conserved cysteine residues at positions 1, 29, 99 and 139 is a unique and largely uncharacterized subclass of Type I interferon. Interferon tau, the paracrine antiluteolytic signal, acts on uterine epithelium to prevent pulsatile release of PGF2α and insure maintenance of a functional corpus luteum. Secretion of IFNτ is limited to early pregnancy, with Days 12–13 for sheep and Days 14–17 for cows and goats being critical for pregnancy recognition. Secretion of ovine (o) IFNτ is stimulated by granulocyte monocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or insulin-like growth factors I and II combined suggesting that uterine factors influence IFNτ gene expression. There are few uterine receptors for oxytocin (OTR) or estrogen (ER) in early pregnant ewes or after intrauterine injections of oIFNτ, so pulsatile release of PGF required for luteolysis is abrogated. Ovine IFNτ may stabilize progesterone receptors (PR) to inhibit up-regulation of ER and OTR in uterine epithelium to prevent luteolysis; an effect likely mediated by IFN-stimulated response elements in the receptor genomic DNA. Pig conceptuses secrete both IFNα (25%) and IFNγ (75%) between Days 15 and 21 of gestation, but their roles in early pregnancy are unknown. Inhibition of secretion of luteolytic PGF in pigs is in response to estrogens of blastocyst origin which induce upregulation of endometrial receptors for prolactin. Effects of prolactin and estrogen may be influenced by IFNα and/or IFNγ from pig trophoblast. The equine conceptus may signal pregnancy recognition through secretion of a low molecular weight protein, estrogen and/or PGE, but the precise signal and its mechanism of action have not been elucidated.
Characterization Of A Charge-Injection-Device Camera System As A Multichannel Spectroscopic Detector

A solid-state camera system designed for use as a multichannel detection system for spectroscopic applications is evaluated. The camera is based on a charge-injection-device sensor that permits very high dynamic range operation by virtue of its unique nondestructive readout capability. Methods of determining gain and readout noise are discussed. Performance of the camera system is evaluated with respect to sensitivity, linearity, readout noise, and dynamic range. The use of nondestructive readout to reduce effective readout noise and increase dynamic range is described. Spectral responses in the visible and ultraviolet of coronene-coated and uncoated devices are reported. Various time-dependent anomalies caused by interface trapped charge are discussed.
Fourier transform hyperspectral visible imaging and the nondestructive analysis of potentially fraudulent documents.

The work presented in this paper details the design and performance characteristics of a new hyperspectral visible imaging technique. Rather than using optical filters or a dispersing element, this design implements Fourier transform spectroscopy to achieve spectral discrimination. One potentially powerful application of this new technology is the non-destructive analysis and authentication of written and printed documents. Document samples were prepared using red, blue, and black inks. The samples were later altered using a different ink of the same color. While the alterations are undetectable to the naked eye, the alterations involving the blue and black inks were easily detected when the spectrally resolved images were viewed. Analysis of the sample using the red inks was unsuccessful. A 2004 series $20 bill was imaged to demonstrate the application to document authentication. The results argue that counterfeit detection and quality control during printing are plausible applications of Fourier transform hyperspectral visible imaging. All of the images were subjected to fuzzy c-means cluster analysis in an effort to objectively analyze and automate image analysis. Our results show that cluster analysis can distinguish image features that have remarkably similar visible transmission spectra.
A control point methodology for CUSUM control charts

A control point methodology (CPM) is proposed for implementation of graphical cumulative-sum (CUSUM) control charts on computers. Currently, most computer implementation of CUSUM charts is based on tabular form which loses the distinguished look of CUSUM statistics and V-mask. The more intuitive graphical CUSUM charts are not popular due to the difficulty of computer implementation. CPM removes the need to store all CUSUM points and thus reduces computing time. Examples are given to show that the proposed method can be applied to CUSUM for both means and ranges.
Correcting the errors in the initial conditions and wind stress in storm surge simulation using an adjoint optimal technique

Abstract An adjoint data assimilation methodology is applied to the Princeton Ocean Model and is evaluated by obtaining “optimal” initial conditions, sea surface forcing conditions, or both for coastal storm surge modelling. By prescribing different error sources and setting the corresponding control variables, we performed several sets of identical twin experiments by assimilating model-generated water levels. The experiment results show that, when the forecasting errors are caused by the initial (or surface boundary) conditions, adjusting initial (or surface boundary) conditions accordingly can significantly improve the storm surge simulation. However, when the forecasting errors are caused by surface boundary (or initial) conditions, data assimilation targeting improving the initial (or surface boundary) conditions is ineffective. When the forecasting errors are caused by both the initial and surface boundary conditions, adjusting both the initial and surface boundary conditions leads to the best results. In practice, we do not know whether the errors are caused by initial conditions or surface boundary conditions, therefore it is better to adjust both initial and surface boundary conditions in adjoint data assimilation.
On the Distribution of the Studentized Bivariate Range

The stltdetltized bivnhte range, R s , it1 a sample from a circrdur normal distribution is espressed as the maximum of a set of F variables. Using a method employed by pearson and Chandra Sekar [7], the exact upper tail distribution for small samples is given. The same procedure provides over-approximations to the percentage points of R s , for larger sample sizes. Methods for obtaining the full distribution are discrussed. The use of the statistic in testitrg for homogeneity is considered.
Effects of Different Environmental Temperatures on Urinary Estrogens of Maturing Fowl

Abstract THE principal estrogens of the domestic fowl are estrone, 17β-estradiol estriol and 16-epiestriol (Mulay et al., 1968) Previous data (Mathur et al., 1966) has emphasized the significant differences in the ratios of urinary estrogens in the laying hen. The principal estrogens of the domestic fowl, appearing in the urine in decreasing amounts, are estrone, 17β-estradiol, 16-espiestriol and estriol. It is not known, however, if there occurs any change in such ratios during the process of sexual maturation in the domestic fowl. In the prepubertal bull calf, for example, it has been shown (Linder, 1959; Linder and Mann, 1960) that androstenedion predominates while in adulthood, the reverse case exists with testosterone pre-dominating. Recently it has been shown by Subhas and Huston (1967) that environmental temperatures may alter the normal balance of gonadotrophic hormones in the maturing female fowl. The development of a sensitive and specific method of assay applicable to fowl…
Was Venus born retrograde? (reply)

The questions which have been raised concerning the tidal torque on the atmosphere of Venus deserve some clarification.
High brightness phosphorescent organic light emitting diodes on transparent and flexible cellulose films.

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) were fabricated on flexible and transparent reconstituted cellulose obtained from wood pulp. Cellulose is naturally available, abundant, and biodegradable and offers a unique substrate alternative for the fabrication of flexible OLEDs. Transparent cellulose material was formed by dissolution of cellulose in an organic solvent (dimethyl acetamide) at elevated temperature (165 °C) in the presence of a salt (LiCl). The optical transmission of 40-μm thick transparent cellulose sheet averaged 85% over the visible spectrum. High brightness and high efficiency thin film OLEDs were fabricated on transparent cellulose films using phosphorescent Ir(ppy)3 as the emitter material. The OLEDs achieved current and luminous emission efficiencies as high as 47 cd A−1 and 20 lm W−1, respectively, and a maximum brightness of 10 000 cd m−2.
Destabilization of a lipid non-bilayer phase by high pressure

Abstract Pressure is found to destabilize the non-bilayer phase with respect to the bilayer in a model lipid system. The lamellar to inverted hexagonal (H11) phase transition of aqueous egg phosphatidylethanolamine is shifted to higher temperatures by hydrostatic pressure. The slope of the increase in transition temperature is constant to beyond 300 bar, and is greater than that seen for other lipid phase transitions. This behavior is consistent with the hypothesis that increasing chain disorder drives the conversion from the bilayer into the hexagonal phase. If this non-bilayer lipid phase is an intermediate in membrane fusion, then pressure should inhibit the process. This may explain the inhibition of chemical transmission at neural synapses by pressure.
A novel crossed Fizeau interferometer

A new concept in optical spectroscopy is described which involves orthogonally mounted Fizeau interferometers. Data are output as two-dimensional images, in which the intensity of input light of a given wavelength is encoded at a specific x, y coordinate. Quantification may be obtained by means of an image detector and processor. A proof-of-principle experiment has been carried out. The possibility of a high-resolution compact spectrometric device is discussed.
Some Accuracy and Resolution Aspects of Computer Vision Distance Measurements

The distance between an object and stereo vision sensors can be measured using image processing and known system parameters. A detailed distance measurement synthesis procedure to meet system specifications is presented and illustrated with an example. An error analysis shows that error is proportional to distance. System parameters such as separation between sensor elements, sensor focal length, and sensor array dimensions are related in the design and error equations presented. The main desired design goal is to establish the smallest image sensor array size which will meet system operating specifications. Minimum and maximum distance, object height, optic parameters, scene shift, and sensor array parameters are related.
The effect of melperone, an atypical antipsychotic drug, on cognitive function in schizophrenia

Melperone, a butyrophenone, has been shown to possess atypical antipsychotic properties, i.e. ability to produce an antipsychotic effect in man at doses that cause minimal extrapyramidal side effects. In addition, melperone shares the following with other atypical antipsychotic drugs: (1) effectiveness for ameliorating negative symptoms; (2) no prolactin elevation; and (3) effectiveness in the treatment of some patients with neuroleptic-resistant schizophrenia. Other atypical antipsychotic drugs have been reported to improve cognitive function. This study was performed to investigate the effect of melperone on cognitive function. Nineteen patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, including 11 neuroleptic-resistant patients, were treated with melperone for 6 weeks. A comprehensive neurocognitive test battery and psychopathological ratings (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, BPRS) were administered at baseline and after 6 weeks of melperone treatment. Treatment with melperone was associated with improvement in executive function, as measured by the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST)-Categories and WCST-Percent Perseveration. On the other hand, visuospatial manipulation, as measured by the Wechsler Intelligent Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) Maze, worsened during melperone treatment. There were no significant changes in other domains of cognition, i.e. verbal learning and memory, verbal working memory, verbal fluency and sustained attention. Scores of WCST-Categories and Perseveration at 6 weeks were predicted from the relevant cognitive test scores at baseline and the change in BPRS Total and Positive scores. These results suggest the usefulness of melperone for facilitating work and social function in patients with schizophrenia. The differences in the cognition-enhancing abilities between melperone and clozapine are discussed.
The ns 4 gene of mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), strain A 59 contains two ORFs and thus differs from ns 4 of the JHM and S strains.

The sequence of the MHV-A 59 non-structural gene 4 (ns 4) reveals two open reading frames. The upstream ORF potentially encodes a 19 amino acid (2.2 kDa) polypeptide and the downstream ORF potentially encodes a 106 amino acid (11.7 kDa) polypeptide. This is in contrast to MHV-JHM gene 4 which expresses a 15 kDa protein. Cell free translation of a synthetic mRNA containing both ORFs of MHV-A 59 ns 4 results in the synthesis of a 2.2 kDa poylpeptide; the predicted 11.7 kDa product of the MHV-A 59 downstream ORF is not detected during cell free translation nor in infected cells. These results add to the recent data suggesting that expression of some of the ns proteins of MHV is not necessary for efficient growth in tissue culture.
Application of sample displacement techniques to the purification of synthetic oligonucleotides and nucleic acids: a mini-review with experimental results

Clinical development of antisense drugs is rapidly increasing requirements for large quantities of oligonucleotides. As part of the manufacturing process appropriately large scale separation techniques must be developed. This article reviews applications of sample self displacement techniques to the purification of oligonucleotides and nucleic acids, wherein sample components act as displacers and enhance purities. Applications for other solutes are also reviewed where similar methods may be of use in oligonucleotide purification. Experimental data is presented for sample self displacement anion-exchange chromatography of the clinically important phosphorothioate oligonucleotides. The technique can enhance full-length purity of the product and offers maximal utilization of the chromatographic media. Full-length purities of 95% and higher are achieved by this approach and recovery yields are up to 70% depending upon starting feed purity. Recycling and real time process monitoring can further improve recovery. Techniques for column saturation with multiple linked columns are presented and their applications to oligonucleotide purification are discussed.
Feasibility of atrial fibrillation detection and use of a preceding synchronization interval as a criterion for shock delivery in humans with atrial fibrillation

Objectives. This study assessed the feasibility of detecting atrial fibrillation (AF) and delivery of appropriately timed R wave shocks using an implantable atrial defibrillator. Background. For atrial defibrillation therapy to be feasible in an implantable form, AF must be detected in a specific fashion, and the risk of ventricular proarrhythmia should be minimized. Methods. Eleven patients with AF underwent testing with an implantable atrial defibrillator (METRIX 3000 Automatic Atrial Defibrillator, InControl, Inc.). Wideband electrograms (EGMs) were recorded from the right ventricular (RV) bipolar catheter and from the multipolar catheters located in the right atrium (RA) and coronary sinus (CS). Atrial fibrillation detection was performed using two serial algorithms—quiet interval analysis and baseline crossing analysis—that defect atrial activity on the RA-CS channel. Ventricular sensing using a minimal preceding synchronization interval of 500 ms as a criterion for synchronous shock delivery was performed from filtered RV and RV-CS EGMs. Results. The AF detection algorithms were applied to 53 AF data segments and 18 normal sinus rhythm data segments. Atrial fibrillation was detected appropriately in 49 instances, and the specificity for detecting AF and normal sinus rhythm was 100%. Synchronization criterion efficacy was assessed by delivering shock markers and shocks. Of the 2,025 R waves processed, 557 (27.5%) were marked as suitable for shock delivery. In addition, 69 therapeutic and 11 test shocks were delivered during AF. All shock markers and shocks were delivered synchronously with the R wave, and the synchronization criterion was never violated. Conclusions. Atrial fibrillation can be detected in a specific fashion using the RA-CS lead configuration and serial detection algorithms for atrial sensing. The delivery of properly timed shocks is feasible and should minimize the risk of ventricular proarrhythmia.
Not everybody wants to save the world

A consumer lens is used to examine investing behavior in this study. The study focuses on the importance given by investors to their economic and social investing goals (SIG). This approach redirects managerial attention from the investment to the investor and investing goals. The study finds that differences in environmental attitude, social investing efficacy, materialism, religiosity and protected values can explain disparities in investing goals. The findings suggest a segmentation approach based on differences in antecedent effects and economic and SIG.
Ring current formation influenced by solar wind substorm conditions

[1] Single-particle tracking with time-dependent global magnetic and electric fields is used to investigate the generation of the ring current from ionospheric outflows during an internally driven substorm. We show that the energization of the ions is not correlated with the time that the ions leave the ionosphere; instead energization is correlated with the formation of an injection front driven by an earthward moving flux rope at onset. Because of the large gyroradius of the O+ ions, they experience strong dawn-dusk acceleration in the vicinity of the injection front. The acceleration is strongly influenced by small-scale structures including the Hall electric field and the development of kinks across the tail. H+ is mainly energized by betatron acceleration as it is injected into the inner magnetosphere with less average energy than the O+ ions. In this paper we investigate the conditions that lead to the formation of the injection front and small-scale structures (∼1 RE) in the current sheet, such as tail kinking and flux ropes, that are correlated with particle convection and energization at substorm onset. High-resolution capabilities allow us to resolve these small-scale processes within a thin (<1000 km) current sheet, and we show that simulations with coarse grid resolution underestimate the energization of ring current particles. The role of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) Bz on dayside particle loss is also examined. It is found that northerly turning IMF at or shortly after onset is important in producing a symmetric ring current, but the degree of turning is not as critical.
Identify and fulfill customer service expectations

Abstract The delivery of quality service is becoming increasingly important to successful industrial marketers. This article examines the components of service quality and discusses how those areas can be capitalized on to increase sales and customer satisfaction.
Presence and incidence of izumo antibodies in sera of immunoinfertile women and men.

Problem Sperm antigens that are relevant to fertilization and fertility, and are involved in human immunoinfertility, are being investigated in several laboratories. Izumo is a sperm-specific protein that has shown to be essential for sperm-egg fusion. The present study was conducted to examine the expression of Izumo protein in human sperm. Also, the presence and incidence of Izumo antibodies in sera of immunoinfertile women and men were investigated. Method of study The expression of Izumo protein in human sperm was examined by the Western blot procedure. Sera from immunoinfertile women (n = 25) and fertile women (n = 23), as well as sera from immunoinfertile men (n = 20) and fertile men (n = 15), were collected and analyzed for immunoreactivity with Izumo peptides in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Three epitopes of human Izumo, namely one epitope of Izumo1, and two epitopes of Izumo2 [Izumo2 (K-15), and Izumo2 (T-17)], respectively, were selected for the present study. Results In the Western blot procedure, the Izumo1 antibody recognized a specific protein band of ~39 kDa in human sperm extract. In ELISA, 56% of the immunoinfertile female sera reacted positively (≧3 S.D. units) with Izumo1, 40% with Izumo2 (K-15), and 20% with Izumo2 (T-17) peptide. None of the sera (0%) from fertile women reacted positively (≦3 S.D. units) with any of the three Izumo peptides. None of the sera from immunoinfertile (0%) or fertile men (0%) reacted positively with any of the three Izumo peptides. Conclusion Our findings indicate that human sperm expresses Izumo protein, and the immunoinfertile female sera have circulating isoantibodies against this protein. This is the first study to our knowledge, which examined the presence and incidence of Izumo antibodies in female and male immunoinfertility. These findings may find clinical applications in specific diagnosis and treatment of infertility, and contraceptive vaccine development.
Renal function outcomes following liver transplantation and combined liver–kidney transplantation

Studies of kidney function after orthotopic liver transplantation have yielded conflicting results, and there is a paucity of data on renal outcomes after combined liver–kidney transplantation. In this Review, authors from the University of California, Los Angeles attempt to synthesize the available findings into a cohesive update. Focus is given to the effect of the introduction of the MELD scoring system. Acute renal failure (ARF) is common immediately after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), whereas the incidences of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease increase with time. Introduction of the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score—intended to prioritize patients with more-severe pretransplantation liver disease in general, and worse pretransplantation renal function in particular—for the allocation of liver grafts led to concerns about compromised patient and allograft survival and increased incidence of postoperative ARF and CKD. Nonetheless, it has been suggested that early OLT of candidates with baseline renal dysfunction improves post-transplantation renal outcomes. For OLT candidates with mild to moderate chronic renal impairment or recent-onset ARF, the decision of whether to perform OLT alone or combined liver–kidney transplantation (CLKT) can be challenging because no single factor has been shown to be predictive of the degree of renal function recovery or CKD progression following successful OLT. In this article, we provide an overview of the literature on renal function outcomes following OLT and CLKT, share our perspectives on the potential predictors of renal dysfunction or nonrecovery of renal function after OLT, and present United Network for Organ Sharing data on patient and allograft outcomes in CLKT recipients in the pre-MELD and post-MELD eras. Mechanisms that might underlie immunological protection of kidney grafts by liver allografts are also discussed.
Morphologic appearance of inclusion bodies and their association with the antigenic composition of naturally occurring rabies viruses.

A total of 112 rabies virus-infected skunk brain samples from naturally occurring cases (64 from Missouri, 48 from Kentucky) were code labeled and grouped into two morphologic categories according to the appearance and size of the discrete particles observed by immunofluorescent-antibody staining. The reactivity of the blind-labeled samples was then determined using a panel of 23 antinucleocapsid monoclonal antibodies to test whether morphologic appearance was associated with antigenicity. Two categories were defined and designated; they were morphologic type I (MO-I) and morphologic type II (MO-II). MO-I viruses produced granular-type fluorescing aggregates with no evidence of inclusions compatible in appearance with Negri bodies. MO-II viruses produced at least one and usually many large, round, or oval fluorescing inclusion bodies. No viruses categorized as MO-I reacted with antinucleocapsid monoclonal antibodies 103-7, 239-10, and 120-2; all MO-II viruses reacted positively to these three antibodies, with one exception involving antinucleocapsid monoclonal antibody 239-10. The results indicate a strong association between the reactivity of these antibodies and the morphologic appearance of the aggregates of antigen. Images