cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate enhancement of α-methyl-d-glucoside accumulation by kidney cortex slices

Abstract Cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate and N 6 -2′- O -dibutyryl cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate increase the accumulation of α-methyl- d -glucoside by cortical slices from rat, rabbit, dog and human kidney. The characteristics of the effect have been studied in rat tissue. At least 90 min of exposure of the tissue to cyclic nucleotide prior to onset of glucoside accumulation is required as well as presence of the cyclic nucleotide during the accumulation phase. Inhibition of protein synthesis does not abolish the effect of N 6 -2′- O -dibutyryl cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate. The cyclic nucleotide causes an increase in the initial entry rate of α-methyl- d -glucoside into cells and an increase in the intracellular steady state concentration. The cyclic nucleotide does not affect the apparent K m of the glucoside entry process but increases the maximum velocity of accumulation.
Induction of acute translational response genes by homocysteine. Elongation factors-1alpha, -beta, and -delta.

Abstract The thiol amino acid homocysteine (HC) accumulates in homocystinuria and homocyst(e)inemia, and is associated with a wide variety of clinical manifestations. To determine whether HC influences the cell’s program of gene expression, vascular endothelial cells were treated with HC for 6–42 h and analyzed by differential display. We found a 3–7-fold, time-dependent induction of a 220-base pair fragment, which demonstrated complete sequence identity with elongation factor-1δ (EF-1δ), a member of the multimeric complex regulating mRNA translation. Fibroblasts from cystathionine β-synthase −/− individuals also showed up to 3.0-fold increased levels of mRNA for EF-1α, -β, and -δ when compared with normal cells, and treatment of normal cells with the HC precursor, methionine, induced a 1.5–2.0-fold increase in EF-1α, -β, and -δ mRNA. This induction was completely inhibited by cycloheximide and reflected a doubling in the rate of gene transcription in nuclear run-on analyses. In HC-treated endothelial cells, pulse-chase studies revealed a doubling in the rate of synthesis of the thiol-containing protein, annexin II, but no change in synthesis of the cysteineless protein, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. Thus, HC induces expression of a family of acute translational response genes through a protein synthesis-dependent transcriptional mechanism. This process may mediate accelerated synthesis of free thiol-containing proteins in response to HC-induced oxidative stress.
Fathers' Forgiveness as a Moderator Between Perceived Unfair Treatment by a Family of Origin Member and Anger With own Children

This study examined how forgiveness mediates and moderates between fathers' perceived unfair treatment (PUT) from a family of origin member and anger with the child (AWC). Eighty married fathers wh...
SU‐GG‐J‐195: Utility of a Calibrated Deformation Map to Aid Treatment Position and Monitoring Guidance in Deforming Anatomy with Electromagnetic Transponders

Purpose: To investigate the utility of tracking motion and deformation in various regions of a deforming geometry given a predetermined “calibrated” deformation map and relative position of a small number of embedded electromagnetic transponders. Method and Materials: Three electromagnetic transponders were inserted into a reproducibly deformable phantom and localized with CT. Tumor‐simulating spheres were embedded at different positions relative to the transponders. The phantom was imaged at 7 compression (“breathing”) states, and the transponders and tumors were localized on each image volume. Deformation maps relating a reference (end inhalation) to all other states were estimated using a B‐spline based registration technique. Principal component analysis was applied to the deformation maps to find the most significant modes of deformation in the phantom. This created a calibration state for the deformation which can be used along with the measured transponder positions to estimate the deformation at arbitrary time point during a breathing cycle. Results: Tests performed based on information from one transponder showed variable uncertainty (8 mm) in predicting arbitrary target positions at different states during a breathing cycle. Application of all three transponders to the first component of deformation showed very high accuracy with a mean error of less than 1mm for deformation maps calibrated on 5 breathing states. Using only the 2 extremes of the breathing cycle, the mean error increased to 2mm, showing some dependence on the number of states used in calibration of the deformation map. Extrapolation of the breathing state past the calibration data by an additional 1cm of compression showed reasonable accuracy (3.5 mm). Conclusion: A calibrated deformation map can potentially be used as an aid to dynamic tracking of deforming anatomy during treatment. Experiments are ongoing to evaluate the dynamic behavior of the calibrated maps to real‐time data from the tracking system. Supported by NIHP01CA59827.
Radiographic appearance of the thorax of clinically normal alpaca crias.

Objective—To quantitatively and qualitatively assess the radiographic appearance of the thorax of clinically normal alpaca crias. Animals—21 clinically normal alpaca crias. Procedures—Left-right lateral (LR), right-left lateral (RL), dorsoventral (DV), and ventrodorsal (VD) projections of the thorax were acquired. To account for differences in cria size, measurements of thoracic structures were compared with other anatomic landmarks. Results—Mean ± SD vertebral heart scale was 9.36 ± 0.65 for LR projections, 9.36 ± 0.59 for RL projections, 8.21 ± 0.51 for DV projections, and 8.65 ± 0.57 for VD projections. Dimensions of the heart were compared with the length of the T3 through T5 vertebral bodies, third to fifth rib distance, and thoracic height and width, which provided additional methods of cardiac evaluation. For RL projections, mean ratio of the right cranial pulmonary artery diameter to the third rib width was 0.41 ± 0.10 and mean ratio of the right cranial pulmonary vein to the third rib width was 0...
The morphologic effects of mitomycin c in mammalian urinary bladder

This investigation was intended to determine the morphologic changes of mitomycin C. It is part of a series of experiments designed to evaluate the cytologic and histologic effects of topical chemotherapeutic agents using the FANFT experimental model system in mice. The results for mitomycin C are very similar to those previously reported for thio-tepa. The indicate that these chemicals produce few, if any, drug-specific light microscopic alterations. Rather, mitomycin C and thio-tepa apparently act as toxic substances, causing increased exfoliation, degeneration, and necrosis of urothelial cells. The implications of these findings and suggestions for future investigations are discussed.
Uniqueness and representation of a function in terms of its translated averages

We give the representation formula of a periodic function with period one in terms of its translated means on the unit interval. We also give an application of this formula to a boundary value problem.
Epidemic Adenoviral Keratoconjunctivitis Possibly Related to Ophthalmological Procedures in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Lessons from an Outbreak

Purpose: Epidemic adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis can spread rapidly among preterm infants who frequently undergo ophthalmological examination. Here we present our experience on a nosocomial outbreak that affected 8 nursery staff members and 26 premature infants. We focus on the presentation and progress of the outbreak, the diagnosis of the disease and the measures taken for its control.Methods: Data were collected from patients’ files and records of the infection control team. Conjunctival swabs were collected to perform direct fluorescent assay (DFA) and viral culture. Diagnosis was made according to clinical evidence and/or detection of the virus. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 15.0 statistical software.Results: Infection was introduced to our unit after a laser photocoagulation procedure of a 28-week gestational infant and circulated rapidly within the unit due to direct transmission through contaminated medical equipment, fomites and hands of nursery staff members. Neither the patient...
Isoelectric focusing of myosin in dilute polyacrylamide gels.

Abstract Isoelectric focusing of myosin in dilute polyacrylamide gels containing 9 M urea offers several advantages over disc electrophoresis of myosin under similar conditions. There is no loss of protein sample by precipitation at the top of the gel, relatively dilute samples can be used, and both small and large subunits can be analyzed on a single gel column. Like disc electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing indicates the presence of substantial heterogeneity in both large and small subunits of myosin.
DOXYCYCLINE DECREASES MONOCYTE CHEMOATTRACTANT PROTEIN-1 IN HUMAN LUNG EPITHELIAL CELLS

Certain antibiotics possess anti-inflammatory properties and could potentially be used to treat inflammatory lung diseases associated with an influx of monocytes such as panbronchiolitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, and bronchitis. Doxycycline is reported to possess anti-inflammatory effects. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is a major inflammatory cytokine and a powerful chemoattractant for monocytes. The authors hypothesized that doxycycline exerts its anti-inflammatory effects, in part, by reducing MCP-1 production. To test this hypothesis, A549 human lung epithelial cells were stimulated with cytomix in the presence or absence of doxycycline. In stimulated cells doxycycline decreased MCP-1 production by 95% and in monocyte chemotaxis assays migration decreased by 55%. However, doxycycline did decrease expression of MCP-1 mRNA and did not effect its stability. These data demonstrate that doxycycline modulates MCP-1 production and suggest that doxycycline may provide a new anti-inflammatory therapy for chronic lung diseases.
Exhaled nitric oxide levels during acute asthma exacerbation.

Objectives: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FE N O ) has been shown in laboratory settings and trials of patients with stable asthma to correlate with the degree of airway inflammation. The authors hypothesized that the technique of measuring FEND would be reproducible in the setting of acute asthma in the emergency department (ED) and that the FE N O results during ED visits would potentially predict disposition, predict relapse following discharge, and correlate with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) asthma severity scale and peak expiratory flow measurements. Methods: The authors prospectively measured FEND in a convenience sample of ED patients with acute exacerbations of asthma, both at the earliest possible opportunity and then one hour later. Each assessment point included triplicate measurements to assess reproducibility. The authors also performed spirometry and classified asthma severity using the NIH asthma severity scale. Discharged patients were contacted in 72 hours to determine whether their asthma had relapsed. Results: The authors discontinued the trial (n = 53) after a planned interim analysis demonstrated reproducibility (coefficient of variation, 15%) substantially worse than our a priori threshold for precision (4%). There was no association between FEND response and corresponding changes in spirometry or clinical scores. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the prediction of hospitalization and relapse were poor (0.579 and 0.713, respectively). Conclusions: FE N O measurements in ED patients with acute asthma exacerbations were poorly reproducible and did not correlate with standard measures of asthma severity. These results suggest that using existing technology, FEND is not a useful marker for assessing severity, response to treatment, or disposition of acute asthmatic patients in the ED.
ELECTROSTATIC INTERACTIONS FOR PARTICLE ARRAYS IN ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL FLUIDS II: MEASUREMENTS

The force required to shear one-, two- and three-chain clusters of 230 µm dia. glass beads in silicone oil was measured. In each case the shear force was proportional to the shear strain, the proportionality constant increasing with electric field and number n of chains in the cluster. The derived shear modulus G also increased with n. An extrapolation of the present results suggests that a cluster of 4–5 chains would give the stress enhancement factor of 10–20 observed for real ER fluids.
Alternating-projection algorithms for operator-theoretic calculations

We show how alternating-projection algorithms can be used to solve a variety of operator-theoretic problems, including deciding complete positivity, computing completely bounded norms, computing norms of Schur multipliers, and matrix completion/approximation problems.
Lactate dehydrogenase isozyme patterns of fish.

Representatives of 30 species of fish were examined for their content of LDH isozymes. One major isozyme system was found in all fish. In addition, two minor systems restricted to eyes and to gonads were found in many fish. Fish may be classified into four groups on the basis of their possession of one, two, three, or five major isozymes of LDH. The major isozyme patterns can be attributed to the polymers of two protein subunits under the control of two genes, as in mammals and birds, but the variety of heteropolymers produced varies in different species. The fluke and other flatfish are exceptional in that they synthesize only one kind of subunit which polymerizes to form a single variety of LDH. All other fish produced at least two major isozymes presumably the homopolymers of A and B subunits. The three-isozyme fish produce, in addition, a single heteropolymer. A few fish produce three heteropolymers and two homopolymers to produce the characteristic pattern of five isozymes seen in mammals. In populations of the whiting, which has five major isozymes, two mutant alleles at the B locus were discovered. Each of these alleles produced polypeptides with characteristic electrophoretic mobilities. Consequently, heterozygous individuals contained more than 15 isozymes. A variety of minor isozymes that appear on zymograms may represent modifications of the major isozymes. However, the minor isozyme systems of the gonad and the eye seem to be genetically distinct molecular systems, separate from and in addition to the major isozyme system.
Cryopreservation of Giardia lamblia with dimethyl sulfoxide using a Dewar flask

This study examined the effect of varying freezing conditions on the human intestinal parasite Giardia lamblia (Portland-1 strain) using a constant vacuum in a Dewar flask and an ethanol bath to regulate the cooling rate. The cryopreservation of the trophozoite stage was investigated. Dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO), the cryoprotective agent of choice, was added directly to Giardia growth medium. Me2SO toxicity assays were conducted on those concentrations used in the freezing protocol. The results of this study indicated a 6.5% (v/v) Me2SO concentration yields a 90% survival based upon organism motility. A 30.9% cell viability was obtained by freezing in medium without a cryoprotective agent. Recommendations are offered concerning alternate viability criteria.
BEHAVIORAL EVIDENCE FOR HOST-RACE FORMATION IN EUROSTA SOLIDAGINIS.

We report behavioral evidence that Eurosta solidaginis, a stem-galling tephritid fly, has formed host races on its two goldenrod hosts, Solidago altissima and S. gigantea. Previous work has shown that flies from each host plant differ electrophoretically at the level of host races. The two host-associated populations were truly sympatric and were frequently found on host plants of the two species growing interdigitated with each other. Each host-associated population demonstrated a strong preference for ovipuncturing its own host. The S. gigantea-associated population emerged 10 to 14 d earlier than the S. altissima-associated population, contributing to the reproductive isolation between populations. Partial reproductive isolation is also maintained by a preference for mating on the host from which the fly emerged. The populations meet the criteria established for host races, suggesting that they may be in an intermediate stage of sympatric speciation.
Recrystallization Processing of Cold-Rolled Nickel

We have examined the effects of isothermal annealing, at a variety of temperatures, and directional annealing, under a range of conditions, on both primary recrystallization and secondary recrystallization in 90% cold-rolled 99.5% nickel of two different textures. The initial texture is shown to influence the rolling texture and, hence, the results of subsequent annealing. It was found that one alloy showed a cube texture after primary recrystallization, underwent abnormal grain growth upon annealing at high temperatures, and could be directionally (secondary) recrystallized to give large columnar grains. In contrast, the other alloy produce a weak cube texture after primary recrystallization, showed only normal grain growth upon annealing at higher temperatures, and could not be directionally annealed to produce columnar grains. The implications of these results are discussed for producing columnar grains.
Dioxin emission inventories and trends : The importance of large point sources

We estimated atmospheric emissions of TEQ for US municipal solid waste incinerators for which PCDD/PCDF measurements are available (81 of about 160 facilities). We compared our annual totals for 1985-1995 with estimates computed using the emission factor approach. Our estimates for a fraction of the facilities was larger than many estimates for all incinerators combined. Our inventory was dominated by several large sources; two facilities emitted on the order of a kilogram of TEQ annually. Retrofit or closing of several incinerators indicates a substantial decrease in atmospheric emissions. Communities addressing the remaining sources will face a choice between expensive retrofits and adoption of alternative methods of handling waste.
Tlx genes make an exciting choice.

A new study shows that the transcription factor Tlx3 specifies glutamatergic phenotype and suppresses GABAergic markers during spinal cord development. Understanding this process could ultimately lead to 'customized' neurons for transplantation.
The prevalence and incidence of pressure ulcers in home care: Are patients at risk?

With the earlier discharge from the acute care setting, there may be an increased suscep tibility to the development of pressure ulcers in the home than ever before. A descriptive study was underta...
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES OF THE FORM FACTORS IN Kmu$sub 3$$sup +$ AND Ke$sub 3$$sup +$ DECAY

Author(s): Brown, John L.; Kadyk, John A.; Trilling, George H.; Walle, Remy T. Van de; Byron, P. Roe; Daniel, Sinclair.
Black/white differences in very low birth weight neonatal mortality rates among New York City hospitals.

Objective We sought to determine whether differences in the hospitals at which black and white infants are born contribute to black/white disparities in very low birth weight neonatal mortality rates in New York City. Methods We performed a population-based cohort study using New York City vital statistics records on all live births and deaths of infants weighing 500 to 1499 g who were born in 45 hospitals between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2001 (N = 11 781). We measured very low birth weight risk-adjusted neonatal mortality rates for each New York City hospital and assessed differences in the distributions of non-Hispanic black and non-Hispanic white very low birth weight births among these hospitals. Results Risk-adjusted neonatal mortality rates for very low birth weight infants in New York City hospitals ranged from 9.6 to 27.2 deaths per 1000 births. White very low birth weight infants were more likely to be born in the lowest mortality tertile of hospitals (49%), compared with black very low birth weight infants (29%). We estimated that, if black women delivered in the same hospitals as white women, then black very low birth weight mortality rates would be reduced by 6.7 deaths per 1000 very low birth weight births, removing 34.5% of the black/white disparity in very low birth weight neonatal mortality rates in New York City. Volume of very low birth weight deliveries was modestly associated with very low birth weight mortality rates but explained little of the racial disparity. Conclusion Black very low birth weight infants more likely to be born in New York City hospitals with higher risk-adjusted neonatal mortality rates than were very low birth weight infants, contributing substantially to black-white disparities.
The City of Laguna Woods: A Case of Senior Power in Local Politics

This study examined an example of the potential for senior power in local politics. On March 2, 1999, a gated retirement community in Orange County, California, known as Leisure World, incorporated with three adjacent senior-living facilities and several businesses to form the first city in the nation—Laguna Woods—almost exclusively populated by seniors. An immediate threat to the community’s lifestyle—the building of a nearby airport—set off city incorporation and allowed the residents to fight the airport more effectively. City-generated revenues are mostly dedicated to satisfy the needs of senior residents and finance age-relevant services such as building golf cart trails for nondrivers. This case suggests that, when crises arise, “able seniors” may become influential political activists. Although the senior power model may not be robust on the federal or state levels, it may become more so on the local level.
Transport Networks at a Crossroads: The roles of MPLS and OTN in packet transport networks

To compare the cost of circuit versus packet switching, we undertook multiple modeling exercises in collaboration with academic researchers. This paper reviews our model, assumptions and outcome, and highlights the impact on product and network architecture.
'Relax and take a deep breath': print media coverage of asthma and air pollution in the United States.

The media are an important social actor in the construction of the public's understanding of the complex relationships between the environment and their health. This paper explores the print media's coverage of the relationship between asthma and air pollution, focusing on the portrayal of causal certainty between exposure to various forms of air pollution and the etiology and exacerbation of the disease. By examining twenty years of newspaper articles from the New York Times Los Angeles Times, and the Washington Post, this paper presents findings on trends across time, within papers, and across key themes. Although the print media's coverage of asthma and its environmental correlates has increased over time, this paper finds relatively little coherence in whether asthma is portrayed as directly caused by air pollution or triggered by exposures. In terms of coverage, outdoor sources of air pollution are covered more frequently - but with less certainty in the discussion of specific relationships. This lack of coherence and specificity in the portrayal of asthma as an environmental disease may weaken regulators' ability to act in passing air pollution reforms by lowering the public's interest and concern.
Examples of Analog Computer Applications in Nuclear Processes

The purpose of this report is to outline and explain the various methods used in simulating atomic re actors and processes, particularly the types used at the Hanford plant. This report describes the newer as well as the standard techniques used in reactor simulation. Applications are described by examples. The techniques used in a complete atomic reactor plant simulator are described.Chemical processing simulations are discussed using specific examples.
PERI-INFARCTION BLOCK: POSTMYOCARDIAL-INFARCTION INTRAVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION DISTURBANCE.

Abstract The cardiac pathology is reported in 21 adult patients in whom the angle between the mean initial and mean terminal 0.04-second QRS vectors was greater than 110 degrees, but in whom there were no Q waves of 0.04-second duration in the standard limb leads. In only one case was myocardial infarction present. It is suggested, therefore, that the term “periinfarction block” be restricted to the combination of abnormalities of the terminal QRS forces with the initial QRS deformity characteristic of infarction.
Considerations for imaging Re-188 and Re-186 isotopes

Re-186 and Re-188 have been suggested for radioimmunotherapy because of their energetic beta particles, imageable gamma photons, and chemical properties similar to technetium. Because of this potential, these isotopes were evaluated before in vivo imaging was attempted. It was found that low-abundance, high-energy gamma photons present in these rhenium isotopes require a medium-energy collimator to yield optimal image resolution and count rate, which are critical factors in the performance of preliminary imaging studies on patients for antibody imaging and therapy.
An Investigation of the Relationship Between Task Structure and Task Programmability in Audit Risk Assessment

ABSTRACT Simon [1960] classified tasks as either programmable or non-programmable. Management scientists interpreted Simon's classification as structured or unstructured. Based on this classification, decision aid theorists have developed a contingency model between task structure and decision aid type where automation is suggested for structured tasks, decision support systems for semi-structured tasks, and knowledge-based expert systems for unstructured tasks. This paper argues and provides evidence from auditing that the programmable/non-programmable classification does not map onto the task structure/decision aid contingency model. Specifically, (1) tasks can be classified as programmable or non-programmable regardless of their degree of task structure; (2) only for the tasks classified as programmable, will there be a contingency between task structure and decision aid type. One hundred and thirty four auditors from seven international accounting firms evaluated the appropriate type of decision suppo...
Normal Phase TLC Separation of Enantiomers Using Chiral Ion Interaction Agents

Abstract A method for the thin layer chromatographic (TLC) separation of enantiomers and diastereomers involving the use of chiral ion interaction agents is described. Several aromatic amino alcohols were resolved by TLC on diol and/or high performance silica gel plates using a mobile phase containing (1R)-(-)- ammonium-10-camphorsulfonate or N-benzoxycarbonyl-glycyl-L-proline (ZGP). Many of these chiral aromatic amino alcohols are of pharmacological importance as α- and β-adrenergic blockers, adrenergic compounds, and anti-glaucoma agents. A comparison was made between various N-CBZ-amino acid derivatives as chiral counter ions/chiral mobile phase additives (CMAs). These separations could not be achieved on other normal phase TLC stationary phases including microcrystalline cellulose, alumina and ordinary silica gel plates.
A simple inexpensive device for rapidly insulating subcortical electrodes.

Abstract A simple device for rapidly insulating and heat- or air-curing subcortical electrodes is described. The device consists of a ceramic plate with silicone rubber filled grooves (electrode holder) and an adapted portable drill stand (dipping device). This apparatus is easily constructed, durable, inexpensive, and will simultaneously insulate 75–100 monopolar or 30–40 twisted wire bipolar electrodes.
Twin gestation with complete hydatidiform mole and a coexisting live fetus: case report and brief review of literature

Complete hydatidiform (also referred to as hydatiform) mole with coexisting live fetus is an exceedingly rare event. The fetus usually has a normal karyotype, and approximately 25-40% chance of survival, if pregnancy is allowed to continue until reasonable fetal lung maturity is achieved. However, risk of maternal complications including preeclampsia and subsequent trophoblastic disease are significant. We report a case of a 19-year-old primigravida, at 25 weeks gestation with a complete hydatidiform mole and a coexisting live fetus. She developed severe preeclampsia with uncontrolled hypertension, and pregnancy was terminated by caesarean section, after a short course of dexamethasone to accelerate fetal lung maturity. A morphologically normal live female fetus and placenta were delivered without complications, along with a separate mass of complete mole. The postpartum course was complicated by uterine choriocarcinoma with metastases to lung and left kidney, which responded to chemotherapy. Our case is a rare example of a twin gestation composed of a complete hydatidiform mole with a coexisting live fetus, and illustrates the associated spectrum of maternal complications that mandate close pre- and post-natal surveillance.
Parallelism in finite element modelling

Parallel processes can be identified at several different levels in the computational simulation of physical processes and problems. We first briefly sketch the main steps involved in modelling physical processes and give examples where inherent parallelism is evident. We then proceed more specifically to describe both inherent and induced parallelism that occur when finite element methods are applied to the solution of boundary and evolution problems, and indicate several opportunitites for parallel processing in finite element analysis.
Detection of false transients

When one calculates a time-frequency distribution of white noise there sometimes appear transients of short duration. Superficially, these transients appear to be real signals but they are not. This comes about by random chance in the noise and also because particular types of distributions do not resolve components well in time. These fictitious signals can be misclassified by detectors and hence it is important to understand their origin and statistical properties. We present experimental studies regarding these false transients, and by simulation we statistically quantify their duration for various distributions. We compare the number and duration of the false transients when different distributions are used.
Economic evaluation of laparoscopic and open inguinal herniorrhaphies: The effect of cost-containment measures and internal hospital policy decisions on costs and charges

Background: Totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repairs of inguinal hernias, despite having a favorable clinical outcome are often criticized due to higher costs and charges associated with this approach. We, therefore, present a comparison of direct costs and charges between TEP and open tension-free (OPN) repairs, emphasizing the effect of cost-containment measures on the part of surgeons and the hospital’s charging (rate-setting) policies on these measurements. Methods: Itemized direct costs, charges, and reimbursements were determined for 41 TEP and 44 OPN unilateral repairs done between January 1997 and December 1999. Multiple sensitivity analyses were done to evaluate the effect of cost-containment measures and the hospital’s rate-setting policies on the differences in costs and charges between the two procedures. The hospital’s profits were expressed as profit-cost ratios. Results: The mean direct cost for a TEP repair was $128.58 more than the OPN repair ($795.07[±65] vs 666.49 [±52]). However, mean charges and hospital reimbursement were $2,139.80 and $1,679.87, respectively, more for the TEP repairs. The profit-cost ratio was significantly higher in the TEP group (2.85:1 vs 1.07:1, P<.001). We found that 79.8% of the difference in direct costs vs 29% of the difference in charges between the two procedures was sensitive to cost-containment measures. Forty-five percent of the difference in charges was due to the hospital’s nonuniform rate-setting policies. Long-term follow-up (38 months) showed no recurrence for either procedure. Conclusions: The direct cost of TEP repairs with the minimal use of disposable instruments in a high-volume center is comparable to the OPN repair. However, due to differences in the hospital’s charging policies, TEP repair would appear to be an expensive alternative from the payer’s point of view.
Several mammalian ubiquitin carrier proteins, but not E220K, are related to the 20-kDA yeast E2, RAD6

Western blot analysis was used to probe the relationships between the multiple ubiquitin carrier proteins (E2 s) of rabbit reticulocytes and the 20-kDa E2 encoded by the RAD6 gene of the yeast S. cerevisiae. Reticulocyte E2-14K, E2-17K, and E2-25K each reacted with two or more polyclonal anti-RAD6 antibody preparations; E2-20K, E2-35K, and E2-230K did not cross-react. These results suggest that some, but not all, reticulocyte E2 s are members of a RAD6-like protein family which is conserved within and across species. RAD6 and E2-20K were also shown to multi-ubiquitinate histones by different mechanisms.
Electrochemical production of Ti–Al alloys using TiCl4–AlCl3–1-butyl-3-methyl imidazolium chloride (BmimCl) electrolytes

Abstract Electrochemical production of Ti–Al alloys was investigated using TiCl 4 –AlCl 3 –1-butyl-3-methyl imidazolium chloride (BmimCl) electrolytes (molar ratio 0.019:2:1). The experiments were conducted at different temperatures between 70 and 125 ± 3 °C and at various cell voltages between 1.5 and 3.0 V. Morphology and composition of deposited Ti–Al alloys were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), along with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Ti–Al alloys containing about 15–27 at% Ti were produced with a current efficiency of about 25–38%. TiCl 3 passivation on electrodes hinders the deposition kinetics and hence very low cathodic current density and cathodic current efficiency was obtained. This study also focused to determine the effect of process variables such as applied voltage, electrolyte composition and temperature on cathode current density, current efficiency, composition and morphology of Ti–Al alloys. The optimized condition for producing finer particle size and high Ti content in Ti–Al alloys was obtained between the applied voltages of 1.5–2.0 V and temperature ranges from 70 to 100 °C.
Chelating properties of α-oximinocarboxamides—II syn-α-oximinophenylacetamide: Copper(II) complexes

Syn-alpha-oximinophenylacetamide forms two complexes with Cu(II), a CuL complex at pH 8.4. log K(1) = 7.82 +/- 0.07 log beta(2) = 14.32 +/- 0.06.
Reconciling climate-conflict meta-analyses: reply to Buhaug et al.

A comment by Buhaug et al. attributes disagreement between our recent analyses and their review articles to biased decisions in our meta-analysis and a difference of opinion regarding statistical approaches. The claim is false. Buhaug et al.’s alteration of our meta-analysis misrepresents findings in the literature, makes statistical errors, misclassifies multiple studies, makes coding errors, and suppresses the display of results that are consistent with our original analysis. We correct these mistakes and obtain findings in line with our original results, even when we use the study selection criteria proposed by Buhaug et al. We conclude that there is no evidence in the data supporting the claims raised in Buhaug et al.
Flunitrazepam photoaffinity labeling of the GABAA receptor reduces inhibition of [3H]Ro15-4513 binding by GABA

Abstract The benzodiazepine drugs modulate γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated synaptic transmission via a high-affinity binding site that is part of the GABA A receptor complex, but which is distinct from the GABA binding site. Ro15-4513 is a benzodiazepine negative modulator of GABA action that displays unique anti-ethanol properties both in vivo and in vitro. Ro15-4513 has been reported to photoaffinity label nearly 100% of the benzodiazepine binding sites in rat brain homogenates. In contrast, the benzodiazepine positive modulator flunitrazepam photoaffinity labels only 25% of the sites. Here, we have examined the reversible binding of [ 3 H]Ro15-4513, [ 3 H]flumazenil (Ro15-1788), and [ 3 H]flunitrazepam to embryonic chick brain membranes, and to membranes that have been photoaffinity labeled with nonradioactive flunitrazepam. Photoaffinity labeling with flunitrazepam decreased the subsequent reversible binding of [ 3 H]flunitrazepam and [ 3 H]flumazenil, but increased the binding of [ 3 H]Ro15-4513. The increase in [ 3 H]Ro15-4513 binding after flunitrazepam photoaffinity labeling was due to a decrease in the apparent K d , with no change in B max . Following photoaffinity labeling, negative modulation of [ 3 H]Ro15-4513 binding by GABA was lost, whereas positive modulation of residual [ 3 H]flunitrazepam binding was retained. We conclude that the site photoaffinity labeled by flunitrazepam is distinct from the site responsible for reversible binding of [ 3 H]Ro15-4513.
Managing radical product development in large manufacturing firms: a longitudinal study

Abstract This study explores and documents the processes by which large manufacturing firms develop and produce radical products. Seven projects from five Fortune 500 firms were analyzed over a 3-year period. Through the use of these case studies, we found common themes emerging in the way these firms manage their new product development (NPD) process in this turbulent environment. Our observations suggest that these high levels of uncertainty result in several unique challenges in developing the project, especially in the areas of managing functional integration and finding a divisional home for the emerging product.
Streamlining Escherichia coli S30 extract preparation for economical cell-free protein synthesis.

Escherichia coli extracts activate cell-free protein synthesis systems by providing the catalysts for translation and other supporting reactions. Recent results suggest that high-density fermentations can be used to provide the source cells, but the subsequent cell extract preparation procedure requires multiple centrifugation and dialysis steps as well as an expensive runoff reaction. In the work reported here, the extract preparation protocol duration was reduced by nearly 50% by significantly shortening several steps. In addition, by optimizing the runoff incubation, overall reagent costs were reduced by 70%. Nonetheless, extracts produced from the shorter, less expensive procedure were equally active. Crucial steps were further examined to indicate minimal ribosome loss during the standard 30 000g centrifugations. Furthermore, sucrose density centrifugation analysis indicated that although an incubation step significantly activates the extract, ribosome/polysome dissociation is not required. These insights suggest that consistent cell extract can be produced more quickly and with considerably less expense for large-scale cell-free protein production, especially when combined with high-density fermentation protocols.
Effects of Hypophysectomy, Thyroidectomy, and Thyroxine on Specific Prolactin Receptor Sites in Kidneys and Adrenals of Male Rats*

The effect of T4 on specific PRL binding in the kidneys and adrenals was measured in intact, hypophysectomized, and thyroidectomized male rats. PRL binding in the kidneys was reduced from 12.1 +/- 1.1% in the intact group to 4.5 +/- 0.5% after hypophysectomy; 4-day replacement with T4 returned PRL binding to intact values. T4 administered to intact rats significantly increased PRL binding above intact values. Thyroidectomy reduced PRL binding in the kidneys from 14.9 +/- 1.2% to 7.0 +/- 0.6%, and T4 treatment restored PRL binding to intact values. PRL binding was measured at 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 days after thyroidectomy in kidneys and found to decrease progressively from 8.2+/-0.5% in the intact rats to 2.3+/-0.3% on day 10. A single injection of T4 doubled PRL recetor binding in kidneys of thyroidectomized rats at 12 h and returned binding to intact levels at 24 h. In contrast to the effects of T4 on kidney PRL binding, adrenal PRL binding was only slightly altered by thyroidectomy and T4. These results suggest that T4 has a specific role in regulating PRL receptors in the kidneys but not in the adrenals. Since PRL receptors in the adrenals were only slightly altered by thyroid status, it is believed that the changes in kidney receptors represent a specific rather than a general metabolic effect of T4.
Amplification without inversion for a signal propagating in a Doppler-free four-level system

The effects of propagation on amplification without inversion via population trapping in a four-level (triply degenerate ground state) system are investigated for a Doppler-free system. Using Maxwell-Bloch equations, we compute the condition for achieving maximum coherence in an extended sample, and determine the parameters of the amplification peak as function of the number density and the amplitude of the pump fields. Using these parameters, we show that amplification of a train of pulses of compatible parameters is possible.
Component comparison based information quality assurance

This paper describes a model to assess the quality of available information objects. If two (or more) objects share similar attribute values but their values are calculated through significantly different methods or using highly similar methods independently, then those objects should be more trustworthy than if they are evaluated separately. Identifying such patterns provides 'multiple-proof' towards the correctness of the similar results those objects represent. Graph isomorphism technique is used to evaluate how similarly or differently two given objects have been constructed. The objective is to better evaluate the trustworthiness of given objects and provide quality assurance for information consumers.
A comparison of three software platforms for automated ECG analysis.

Abstract Introduction Current regulatory guidelines attempt to standardize the models used to assess the safety aspects of new test compounds. However, they do not address the means of deriving the critical data. With the increased data volume that is a result of more extensive safety scrutiny and continuous data assessment, especially in cardiovascular telemetry studies, there is a clear need to assess the automated ECG analysis tools currently available on the market. Methods Cardiovascular studies were conducted using implanted beagle dogs following the oral administration of E-4031 (0 and 1 mg/kg) and the animals were monitored for 22–24 h post-dose. The raw ECG data trace was converted into file formats accessible by Data Sciences International (DSI) Ponemah with pattern recognition option (PRO), EMKA ecgAuto and Notocord HEM. Results Validation using a reference signal generator showed comparable performance by the applications being evaluated. Significant increases in QT/QTcV (25–40 ms) were noted following treatment with 1 mg/kg E-4031 ( T max ≤ 0.5 h). All software applications showed similar trends in QT/QTcV analyses. Discussion The choice of analysis applications is dependent on a number of variables, e.g., animal model used, the need for real-time analysis and visualization, flexibility, learning curve, etc. In our study, similar trends were observed for all three ECG software applications, but pattern recognition approaches were more amenable to adapting to ECG morphology changes over the course of 24 hour telemetry study.
Optical Absorption by Silver Halides

The absorption spectra of silver chloride, silver bromide, and silver iodide films evaporated on quartz plates have been measured at room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature. It has been found that the "exciton peaks," which have been believed to depend very little upon temperature, become sharper and shift toward the shorter wavelength side as the films are cooled down to liquid nitrogen temperature. Attempts are made to combine the present data with some published data to give absorption curves for silver chloride and silver bromide over a large range of absorption spectrum at room and low temperatures.
Reevaluation of Russell-Silver syndrome

Russell-Silver syndrome was reevaluated 2.9 to 13.0 years after initial diagnosis in 15 patients. At follow-up, five of the 15 patients exhibited late catch-up growth and had normal height, six had developmental delays or mental retardation, and asymmetry was present in five. Given the great variability in the long-term prognosis for growth and development in patients with Russell-Silver syndrome, there is a need to reevaluate this syndrome and its clinical implications.
Monitoring p53's pulse

The tumor-suppressor protein p53 mediates the response of mammalian cells to DNA damage. Studies now show that DNA damage elicits quantal pulses of p53, with greater damage eliciting more pulses.
A Review of Multidimensional, Multifluid Intermediate-Scale Experiments: Nonaqueous Phase Liquid Dissolution and Enhanced Remediation

A review is presented of original multidimensional, intermediate-scale experiments involving nonaqueous phase liquids. The experimental approach at this scale can be viewed as an important intermediary between column studies and field trials. The primary advantage of intermediate-scale flow cell experiments is that field-scale processes can be simulated under controlled conditions. The experiments are frequently conducted to provide data sets to test and verify numerical and analytical flow and transport models. The controlled setting and laboratory instrumentation reduces the uncertainty in parameter estimation, allowing comparisons between simulation and experimental results to focus on flow and transport processes. A total of about 120 original contributions were identified and reviewed. Depending on the main topic of NAPL experimental research, the papers were divided into the following sections: (1) Dissolution, (2) Enhanced Remediation, (3) Flow behavior, (4) Quantification, and, (5) Imaging. In this paper, the categories Dissolution and Enhanced Remediation are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided. In a companion paper, experimental work related to the other three categories is reviewed. The Dissolution category includes experiments in which NAPL removal occurs due to water flushing. The Enhanced Remediation section contains experimental contributions investigating surfactant flushing, alcohol flushing, surfactant/alcohol combinations, dense brine barriermore » strategies, oil recovery through pumping, soil vapor extraction, air sparging, steam injection, bioremediation, and other techniques.« less
Thermal management of high-power microelectronic components: state of the art and future challenges

Current trends in the microelectronic industry suggest that by the mid-1990s successful thermal management will require removal of as much as 500 W and 100 W/cm2 from a single chip and in excess of 10 kW and 10 W/cm3 from a multichip module. These cooling requirements pose a serious challenge to today's cooling technology and have spurred extensive research and development of advanced thermal control techniques for microelectronics. The choice of the thermal management strategy for an electronic product has a large impact on its cost, reliability, operating environment, and performance. Thus, while thermal control is just one of several enabling packaging technologies, it deserves and often receives special attention in the development of leading-edge electronic systems. Many observers believe that direct cooling with inert, dielectric liquids may become the method of choice for electronic systems of the late 1990s. This presentation begins with a review of the trends in IC technology and the state-of-the-art in single chip packages and multichip modules. It then examines the packaging development process and defines the future requirements, options, and limits of thermal management techniques. Attention is then turned to direct liquid cooling, including implementation schemes, governing phenomena, research issues, and prospects for widespread implementation.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.