cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural health monitoring using wireless sensing systems with embedded processing

A damage detection system was developed with commercially available wireless sensors. Statistical process control methods were used to monitor the correlation of vibration data from two accelerometers mounted across a joint. Changes in correlation were used to detect damage to the joint. All data processing was done remotely on a microprocessor integrated with the wireless sensors to allow for the transmission of a simple damaged or undamaged status for each monitored joint. Additionally, a portable demonstration structure was developed to showcase the capabilities of the damage detection system to monitor joint failure in real time.
An efficient optimality criterion method for natural frequency constrained structures

Abstract This paper presents an optimality criterion method for the design of structural systems under natural frequency constraints. A new recursive formula is derived. The method is applied to a variety of beams and frames. Results indicate the efficiency and simplicity of the method in locating the optimal design as compared to existing methods. The method avoids the scaling of design variable often required in optimality criterion methods and can treat large nonstructural masses on the structures.
Electrostatic association and donnan phenomena as mechanisms of ion accumulation.

Excised roots of barley (Hordeum vulgare, var. Campana) were incubated for periods up to 24 hours in salt solutions of various concentrations and ion accumulation was determined at various time intervals. The data were consistent with the existence of 2 components of ion uptake, one accounting for ion uptake from solutions below 1 mm and both components contributing to uptake from solutions of concentrations higher than 1 mm.It is proposed that organic and amino acids play an important role in ion accumulation by providing nondiffusible charges which may bind or retain inorganic ions within the cell. Ions would enter the cell by diffusion or exchange from salt solutions of low concentration and become associated with nondiffusible organic ions, principally organic and amino acids. The electrostatic association between inorganic and organic ions would maintain a gradient and diffusion-exchange would occur until equilibrium between the cell and the external solution was reached. It is proposed that the additional component of ion uptake which becomes important at salt concentrations higher than 1 mm is a result of diffusion of neutral salts according to Donnan phenomena. Ion uptake by this proposed mechanism would not necessarily involve the action of carriers.
Prolonged Hyperalimentation in Catabolic Chronic Dialysis Therapy Patients

Plasma concentrations of 25 essential (EAA) and nonessential (NEAA) amino acids were measured pre- and postdialysis in 46 chronic hemodialysis therapy (CDT) patients. Sixteen of these patients with prior weight loss of 14.5 +/- 2.37 pounds in 24 months were administered a GAA solution (EAA + NEAA + glucose) for 20 weeks during each dialysis. Eight of these patients (group 1) responded with improved appetite and weight gain; the remaining eight patients (group 2) with clinically advanced metabolic bone disease continued to lose weight. Five other patients (group 14), biochemically similar to group 1 but with shorter prior dialysis experience, who received EAA (plus glucose) hyperalimentation (including oral I-histidine), experienced weight gain similar to group 1 but displayed significantly different plasma aminograms indicating a deficit of NEAA. When EAA and glucose hyperalimentation was administered without histidine (1 patient) no weight gain occurred and aminograms differed significantly from other groups. Plasma aminograms of 25 weight-stable, nonhyperalimented CDT patients were obtained for comparison. Results indicate GAA hyperalimentation can promote weight gain in catabolic CDT patients with inadequate prior nutritional intake (as in groups 1 and 14) but cannot reverse weight loss when the primary clinical setting is advanced metabolic bone disease and myopathy due to hyperparathyroidism (group 2). Hyperalimentation with glucose and an amino acid solution specifically tailored to the needs of CDT patients may improve results. Plasma phosphoethanolamine levels, normal for weight-stable and elevated in catabolic CDT patients, suggest a possible role for phosphoethanolamine as a marker for catabolism.
INDICATION, SURGICAL TECHNIQUE AND OUTCOME OF ORTHOTOPIC RENAL TRANSPLANTATION

Purpose: We review the indication, surgical technique and outcome of orthotopic renal transplantation.Materials and Methods: The medical records of 1,000 patients who underwent renal transplantation at our institution between August 24, 1993 and August 1, 2000, as well as orthotopic renal transplantation were reviewed.Results: Orthotopic renal transplantation was performed in 4 males and 1 female with severe iliac atherosclerosis or retained bilateral iliac fossa kidney transplant. Mean patient age was 56 years. There were 2 patients who received kidneys from living related donors, and 3 underwent cadaveric renal transplantation. Left orthotopic renal transplantation was successful in 4 cases, and 1 was converted to iliac fossa renal transplant because of a pulseless splenic artery and renal artery thrombosis after native renal endarterectomy. Orthotopic renal revascularization was done with splenic artery in 2, native renal artery in 2 and left renal vein in all 4 patients. Urinary tract reconstruction w...
How intrinsic dynamics and coupling architecture interact to generate bursting dynamics in a model network of respiratory conditional pacemakers

Experiments suggest that the generation of robust, synchronized bursting within the pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BotC) of the mammalian brainstem may be critical for respiration, particularly in low oxygen states. The intrinsic dynamics of individual respiratory cells within the pre-BotC, in the absence of coupling, varies widely, with some cells exhibiting tonic spiking, others generating rhythmic bursting, and still others remaining predominantly quiescent. How such a heterogeneous population can produce highly adaptable synchronized bursting remains an open question. We explored how the distribution of cell types, together with the details of the coupling architecture, shape dynamics in a model pre-BotC network. Dynamics of individual cells were represented using a model developed previously, based on experimental data from pre-BotC recordings [1]. Heterogeity was introduced by selecting parameter values from distributions; however, we controlled the proportions of each cell type present in each simulation. We focused on three different coupling architectures, namely nearest-neighbor, random, and small-world, representing extremes of order and disorder as well as a neuronally relevant intermediate case. In small-world simulations, we manipulated the intrinsic dynamics of the cells at nodes involved in long-range interactions. To detect bursting in these networks, given the complicated time course of the overall synaptic input to each cell, we developed a novel algorithm based on our knowledge of the dynamical mechanisms underlying the bursting behavior in the pre-BotC model [2]. Our algorithm was able to distinguish between epochs of bursting driven by inactivation of inward currents and epochs of tonic spiking that were abruptly interrupted by withdrawal of inputs. Although networks consisting solely of intrinsic bursters can generate synchronized bursting, the presence of intrinsically quiescent and intrinsically tonic cells was found to enhance the coherence of bursting across the network and the adaptability of bursting. Under appropriate conditions, tonic cells can promote network activity, which can be sculpted into bursting through the dynamics of other cells in the network. Quiescent cells can lead the termination of activity, ensuring that pauses occur between bursts (see also [3]), and can relatively cleanly transmit activity produced by other cells, promoting synchronization. Intriguingly, the most effective burst generation within small-world networks occurred in those with a mixture of quiescent and tonic cells, rather than bursters, at the long-range nodes.
Electronic structure of the polyatomic Zintl anion Sb3−7. A scattered-wave Xα study

Abstract The electronic structure of the homopolyatomic Zintl anion Sb 3− 7 has been studied using the scattered-wave Xα method. The bonding in this system is due entirely to the valence p orbitals. The valence s orbitals in the compound are too low in energy to participate. Sb 3− 7 was found, as expected, to contain only sigma bonds. The calculations on Sb 3− 7 also revealed the two highest occupied molecular orbitals (MOs) to be nonbonding p orbitals, suggesting that this compound should be highly reactive to electrophiles. Energy level diagrams, charge distributions, and MO plots are used to explain the bonding in this system.
Pixel sensor integrated neuromorphic VLSI system for real-time applications

A pixel sensor integrated VLSI system, based on a bio-inspired neuromorphic model, is reported. The design employs photodiode sensors where the analog input states in related 2D cell array are programmed directly with visual patterns. The system functionality and specific image processing tasks are demonstrated with measurements, where real-time input patterns are introduced. The static power consumption estimations for the array are given, as larger arrays are feasible due to compact design. The estimated and measured numerical results are compared. The obtained convenient sensor integration can lead to real-time high-resolution applications of this system.
Simulation of Reinforced Concrete Frames with Nonductile Beam-Column Joints

The accurate prediction of shear strength and flexibility of beam-column joints without transverse reinforcement is essential to assess the seismic performance of nonductile reinforced concrete (RC...
Characterization of dilute aqueous solutions containing ionic surfactant and phospholipid mixtures

Abstract The dilution solution properties of aqueous mixtures of ionic surfactants (sodium dodecyl sulfate and dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide) and synthetic phospholipids (dimyristoyl- and dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine) were determined by titration calorimetry, dye solubilization, and potentiometric titrations. The solubility of water-insoluble dye, methyl yellow, was enhanced below the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the surfactants by the presence of phospholipid. The heat of dilution of mixed micelles became more endothermic as the phospholipid content of the mixed micelles increased. No evidence of counterion binding below the CMC of either surfactant was noted in the absence or presence of phospholipid. The shapes of the enthalpy titration curves and dye solubilization curves were indicative of significant surfactant—phospholipid interactions from the lowest surfactant concentrations used (0.4 m M) up to and above the CMC of the surfactants without phospholipid. The absence of detectable counterion binding in this region indicates that complexes other than mixed micelles are the predominate species present.
Naturally Deposited Oxide Films in Near-Net-Shape Casting: Importance, Mechanisms of Formation, and Prediction of Their Composition

In near-net-shape casting technologies for steel, solidification occurs under conditions of direct contact between the processed metal and the mold. Because of the elimination of the use of mold powder in strip casting, oxide films can deposit from the solidifying steel onto the mold surface and affect the casting process. The interface between the mold and the shell of the casting represents the main thermal resistance to heat extraction during the initial phase of solidification when the cast surface is created. Deposited oxide or sulfide films play a very important role in the determination of casting productivity and stability of operations. Moreover, as the cause of many as-cast defects is related to heat transfer, these films can affect cast surface quality. In this article the possible formation mechanisms of oxide deposits are considered, with particular attention to the role of vaporization and liquation. Based on these two mechanisms, a model was developed to predict the composition of oxide films that deposit on water-cooled copper molds during casting. The agreement between measured and predicted film composition is reasonably good, suggesting that these two mechanisms might be the main mechanisms for the deposition of oxide films on the mold surface of near-net-shape casting technologies. Experimental results provide evidence that vaporization and reaction with the shrouding atmosphere is also a possible and relevant mechanism of film deposition.
Religion, violence and radical environmentalism: From earth first! to the Unabomber to the earth liberation front

Since the 1980 formation of Earth First!, radical environmental movements have proliferated widely. Their adversaries, law enforcement authorities and some scholars accuse them of violence and terrorism. Here, I scrutinize such charges by examining 18 years of radical environmentalism for evidence of violence and for indications of violent tendencies. I argue that despite the frequent use of revolutionary and martial rhetoric by participants in these movements, they have not, as yet, intended to inflict great bodily harm or death. Moreover, there are many worldview elements internal to these movements, as well as social dynamics external to them, that reduce the likelihood that movement activists will attempt to kill or maim as a political strategy. Labels such as ‘violent’ or ‘terrorist’ are not currently apt blanket descriptors for these movements. Thus, greater interpretive caution is needed when discussing the strategies, tactics, and impacts of radical environmentalism.
Evaluation of select techniques to model nonpoint source flows and specific pollutants from small watersheds

Abstract An existing hydrologic model has been altered to allow simulations and predictions of suspended sediment and bound ion loadings. Application to synthetic and actual data bases illustrates the model's usefulness.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for optimality in linear-quadratic problems of optimal control

Linear-quadratic Bolza problems of optimal control with variable end points are considered. Under the strengthened Legendre condition, necessary and sufficient optimality conditions are established, and it is shown that the linear-quadratic Bolza problem of optimal control can be reduced to a quadratic minimization problem in a finite-dimensional space. Simple simulations where solutions of a nonlinear problem can be recovered from solutions of the accessory linear-quadratic problem are indicated. Conjectures regarding sufficient conditions for optimality in nonlinear Bolza problems are included. >
On designs related to coherent configurations of type 2 2 4

Abstract Coherent configurations of type ( 2 2 4 ) correspond to certain complementary pairs of 2-designs with two or three intersection sizes, which are investigated in this paper. We establish relations on the parameters of such designs, and use them to show the Witt design L (5, 8, 24) is determined by the association scheme on its blocks, and to characterize the family of designs based on systems of linked symmetric designs.
Demand-driven acquisition and the sunk cost model

Purpose – This paper aims to examine demand-driven acquisition (DDA) models that require an initial or minimum investment through the University of Wyoming’s experience with Elsevier’s Evidence-Based Selection model. Design/methodology/approach – In an attempt to avoid title-by-title selection and a desire to explore an alternative to all or nothing e-book packages, the University of Wyoming Libraries (UWL) participated in Elsevier’s Evidence-Based Selection purchase model for 2011 and 2012 e-book content in the 2013 calendar year. After an initial investment, the library was given access to the content. At the end of one year, UWL was provided with use data for the content and could choose an amount of content to retain up to Elsevier’s established “access fee”. Findings – Many studies have shown that print monographs in academic libraries do not circulate in high volumes. The use data for the titles included in the Evidence-Based Selection model was congruous with studies of print monograph circulation....
Discriminant analysis of the Ullrich-Turner syndrome neurocognitive profile

Ullrich-Turner syndrome (UTS), or monosomy X, is a genetic disorder characterized by short stature, gonadal dysgenesis, and a particular neurocognitive profile of normally developed language abilities (particularly verbal IQ) and impaired visual-spatial and/or visual-perceptual abilities. The most frequently described profile in UTS includes difficulty with tasks involving memory and attention, decreased arithmetic skills, and impaired visual spatial processing. We used discriminant function analysis (DFA) to distinguish between the neurocognitive profiles of girls with UTS vs. controls matched for age, height, IQ, and socioeconomic status. DFA is a statistical method for deriving a linear function that optimally weights parameters to permit sensitive and specific differentiation among groups. We developed a modified discriminant function, based on seven cognitive test scores, that successfully discriminated between the UTS and control subjects with a sensitivity of 0.45 and a specificity of 0.97. To validate its performance, we applied the discriminant function to a small group of 45,X UTS subjects (n = 13) and control female subjects (n = 25), ages 7–16 years, who were not part of the previous analyses. The discriminant function (DF) identified 54% of these 13 UTS subjects as having the “UTS neurocognitive profile” and 92% of the 25 control subjects as not having the profile. We also compared the DF scores of UTS girls with various mosaic karyotypes and found that the group with 46,XX mosaicism had significantly higher scores (i.e., closer to normal controls) than the other two mosaic groups (t = 2.86, P < 0.005). The results of this study should be useful for genetic counseling and planning educational programs for girls with UTS. Am. J. Med. Genet. 72:275–280, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Textile Drying Using Solar Process Steam

This paper describes a solar energy collector system for providing process heat to a textile drying process in a WestPoint Pepperell mill in Fairfax, Alabama. The solar collector system uses 24 single axis tracking parabolic trough concentrating collectors to heat water in a high temperature water loop. The high temperature water fuels a steam generator to provide process steam. The process that was solarized is a textile drying process using cylindrical can dryers. The dryers are utilized in the slashing operation, a textile process where yarn is treated with sizing in preparation for weaving.Copyright © 1979 by ASME
Confidence bands for polynomial regression with fixed intercepts

Confidence bands are considered for linear and quadratic regression when the regression equation is forced through a fixed point. In the linear case, it is noted that the construction of confidence bands reduces to the construction of a confidence interval on the slope parameter. The corresponding bands are straight lines whose widths are independent of the size of the set over which the band is constructed. The construction for the quadratic case involves more complex arguments; these are developed, and tables are presented for band use in both the homoscedastic and heteroscedastic settings. An example is included.
A biomarker, P450 RGS, for assessing the induction potential of environmental samples

In this study the authors describe the use of a transgenic cell line for the identification of potentially toxic compounds in test solutions and environmental samples. The reporter gene system (RGS), derived from a human liver cancer cell line, has been engineered such that the CYP1A1 gene, when activated by an inducer compound, will produce luciferase instead of P450. Eighteen hours after application of a inducer the reaction is stopped by rinsing, the cells lysed, and the cytoplasm measured for luminescence and protein content (for normalization). Induction by such compounds as dioxin, dioxin-like PCB congeners (coplanars), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) infers these xenobiotics are present at levels that are potentially toxic, carcinogenic, or mutagenic to organisms. Multiple wells with attached cells in 2 ml of media were inoculated with various concentrations to toxicants in organic solvents (including DMSO, toluene, and dichloromethane). Volumes tested successfully thus fare are 2 to 20 {micro}l of solvent. Solvent extracts (using standard extraction methods) of aquatic sediments were directly applied to the assay system. Test results show significant RGS induction from concentrations of inducer compound that, if present in a typical 40-g sediment sample, would be (in ng/g or ppb): 0.05 for dioxin, 10more » to 1,000 for a range of coplanar PCB congeners; about 2,000 for several Aroclor mixtures; and 300 for a mixture of PAHs. A mixture of pesticides at concentrations about four times the PAH levels did not produce an induction response. Results presented here indicate that testing for the presence of potentially toxic chemicals in environmental samples could be performed rapidly, with sensitivity and specificity using this RGS cell line.« less
Effects of selenium deficiency in the development of trypanosomes and humoral immune responses in mice infected with Trypanosoma musculi

The selenium-deficient mouse-trypanosome system was used to study the effects of selenium deficiency in Swiss Webster mice infected with Trypanosomamusculi. In selenium-deficient mice, a low parasitemia was observed and infection was cleared by day 16 post-inoculation (PI), whereas control mice sustained the parasitemia until day 24 PI. There were no significant differences in size variability of the trypanosomes; however the range of variability in the length of parasites differed significantly between the three groups. In comparison to mice on complete or pair-fed diets, the selenium-deficient mice produced lower concentrations of IgG1, IgG2b, IgG3, and IgM. The levels of IgG2a and IgA were lower than normal controls. The results of the present study indicated that there was a severe depression in primary and secondary antibody responses to sheep red blood cells in all inoculated mice. However, these responses were significantly less depressed in selenium-deficient mice.
'Winning' and 'losing' at work

This article asks 'What do you want from your work?' It then identifies four types of professional employees: the craftsman, the company man, the gamesman, and the jungle fighter, for each of whom goals differ. The healthiest company cultures can be described in terms of four principles: (1) Security, (2) Equity, (3) Individuation, and (4) Democracy.
WAVE-INDUCED OVERWASH AND DESTRUCTION OF SAND DUNES

Numerical modeling of the rapid dune profile changes that may occur due to wave overtopping and sediment overwash during a storm is challenging. One of the reasons is the limited amount of available field and laboratory data related to the problem. Another reason is the complex interaction of hydrodynamics, morphological changes and sediment transport in the intermittently wet and dry zone of the dune profile. We modified the cross-shore numerical model CSHORE on the basis of three laboratory overwash tests with different dune geometries in front of a low-crested vertical wall to include the capability to predict profile evolution due to wave overtopping and overwash. Experimental results show that the transition from minor to major overwash is fairly rapid and that the resilience of the dune against destruction by wave-induced overwash is dependent on its geometry. Computed results compare well with the measured hydrodynamics, profile changes, wave overtopping rates and sediment overwash rates, requiring only one empirical parameter to be calibrated. Only the erosion in front of the vertical wall in the last phase of each test is not predicted well by the model. Additional comparisons with field data on profile evolution involving overwash verifies the field capabilities of CSHORE.
Proteolytic Regulation of the Mitochondrial cAMP-Dependent Protein Kinase

The mitochondrial cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) is activatable in a cAMP-independent fashion. The regulatory (R) subunits of the PKA holoenzyme (R(2)C(2)), but not the catalytic (C) subunits, suffer proteolysis upon exposure of bovine heart mitochondria to digitonin, Ca(2+), and a myriad of electron transport inhibitors. Selective loss of both the RI- and RII-type subunits was demonstrated via Western blot analysis, and activation of the C subunit was revealed by phosphorylation of a validated PKA peptide substrate. Selective proteolysis transpires in a calpain-dependent fashion as demonstrated by exposure of the R and C subunits of PKA to calpain and by attenuation of R and C subunit proteolysis in the presence of calpain inhibitor I. By contrast, exposure of mitochondria to cAMP fails to promote R subunit degradation, although it does result in enhanced C subunit catalytic activity. Treatment of mitochondria with electron transport chain inhibitors rotenone, antimycin A, sodium azide, and oligomycin, as well as an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation, also elicits enhanced C subunit activity. These results are consistent with the notion that signals, originating from cAMP-independent sources, elicit enhanced mitochondrial PKA activity.
Atresia of the colon.

Abstract Eleven infants with colon atresia have been managed by staged procedure with survival and good health in ten. Complications have been relatively few. At the initial operation the proximal atretic segment is exteriorized as an end colostomy. Such a procedure is simple and safe, results in rapid relief of the obstruction, and permits normal feeding by mouth within a few days. At a second procedure several weeks or months later, intestinal continuity is established by an end-to-end or end-to-side anastomosis. Gastroschisis has been an associated anomaly in four of these cases. This association gives additional support to the concept that intrauterine interference to the blood supply to a segment of intestines is the etiologic factor responsible for such atresias.
Catadioptric lens with aberrations balanced by aspherizing one surface

In this paper we describe an optical system with one surface aspherized to give a specific level of performance and to equalize the intensity profiles of star images over the field. The system was a 25.4-cm EFL, 5.8° field, f/1.53 catadioptric Cassegrain. It was designed to determine the attitude of a space platform by detecting and mapping the geometric pattern of stars observed to ninth visual magnitude. Aberrations were controlled over a 0.5–1.1-μm spectral region. We compare the polychromatic performance of our design to one conventionally optimized. We also describe how the spherical substrate base radius was chosen to minimize glass removal.
Intravenous iron therapy in pediatric hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis.

Dialysis guidelines recommend aggressive management of anemia, including the use of intravenous iron (IVFe) when indicated. However, few published data are available to guide the use of IVFe in children, and studies are difficult to compare. In this meta-analysis we sought to combine evidence by pooling clinical trial data to determine if IVFe therapy helped increase hematocrit, serum levels of hemoglobin, ferritin, and transferrin saturation (TSAT), and reduce erythropoietin use. We searched MEDLINE and other databases, publications, and other sources to identify as many published and unpublished trials as possible. Of 379 possible studies, nine met the criteria for inclusion and analysis. Across all nine studies, 141 patients were studied, for durations of 2 weeks to 12 months. Pooled results identified an increase in hemoglobin, hematocrit, ferritin, and TSAT levels, and reduced use of erythropoietin, with effect sizes (in standardized weighted mean differences) ranging from 0.62 (95% confidence interval 0.11–1.13) to 1.86 (1.58–2.15) standard deviation improvements. Current practice is based largely on extrapolation from adult data and a few small pediatric trials. The pooled pediatric data suggest that IVFe is effective and produces moderate to large effects on the reported outcomes. Prospective, multi-center trials are needed to determine the optimal utilization of IVFe in children.
Complications of fetal blood sampling

To examine the incidence and significance of complications related to percutaneous fetal blood sampling, we reviewed all the articles published in the English literature on this procedure. Risks of complications and adverse outcomes depend mainly on the gestational age at the time of the procedure, the operator's experience, and the indication for the procedure. To determine the incidence of fetal losses, we pooled the data from series with > 100 cases. After exclusion of cases where some fetal pathologic condition was present, we determined the incidence of adverse outcomes in a low-risk population. In this population fetal blood sampling performed by an experienced operator carries about a 1.4% risk of fetal loss before 28 weeks' gestation and a 1.4% risk of perinatal death (after 28 weeks).
Aging and Inhibition: Beyond a Unitary View of Inhibitory Processing in Attention

The authors examined the question of whether a decrease in the efficiency of inhibitory processing with aging is a general phenomenon. Thirty elderly and 32 young adults performed a series of tasks from which the authors could extract measures of inhibitory function. The tasks and task components included response compatibility, negative priming, stopping, spatial precuing, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ). Only limited evidence for age-related differences in inhibitory function was obtained. Old adults had more difficulty than young adults in stopping an overt response and adopting new rules in a categorization task. However, elderly and young adults produced equivalent negative priming effects, response compatibility effects, spatial precuing effects, and self-reported cognitive failures. The findings are discussed in terms of the relationship between aging, inhibitory processes, and neuroanatomical and physiological function.
Induction of lysozymelike activity in the hemolymph and hemocytes of an insect, Spodoptera eridania

Lysozymelike activity is present in the hemocytes and cell-free hemolymph of Spodoptera eridania. Its level remains essentially constant during larval development and can be induced by injection of various foreign materials. Serum bacteriolytic activity rises 24 hr after injection of saline, BSA, bacteria, bacterial endotoxin (LPS), latex particles, or sham injection. However, the magnitude and subsequent duration of the response depends on the nature of the injected material. The response is transient following sham injection or injection of soluble substances, such as saline and BSA, as compared to treatment with latex or bacteria. Both soluble and insoluble fractions of bacterial LPS preparations stimulated the lysozyme response. The response to a single injection of E. coli LPS was dose dependent and persisted for at least 5 days; however, additional injections had no effect on serum lysozyme level. The basal intracellular lysozyme level was significantly increased by E. coli LPS injection. Lysozyme release by hemocytes was proportional to intracellular concentration and did not increase after phagocytic stimulation of hemocytes.
Counterexamples in chemical ring perception.

Ring information is a large part of the structural topology used to identify and characterize molecular structures. It is hence of crucial importance to obtain this information for a variety of tasks in computational chemistry. Many different approaches for “ring perception”, i.e., the extraction of cycles from a molecular graph, have been described. The chemistry literature on this topic, however, reports a surprisingly large number of incorrect statements about the properties of chemically relevant ring sets and, in particular, about the mutual relationships of different sets of cycles in a graph. In part these problems seem to have arisen from a sometimes rather idiosyncratic terminology for notions that are fairly standard in graph theory. In this contribution we translate the definitions of concepts such as the Smallest Set of Smallest Rings, Essential Set of Essential Rings, Extended Set of Smallest Rings, Set of Smallest Cycles at Edges, Set of Elementary Rings, &#x1d4a6;-rings, and β-rings into a more wid...
Successful ribavirin therapy for life-threatening laryngeal papillomatosis post liver transplantation.

: A 3-yr-old girl developed severe progressive juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis (JLP) 2 yr after liver transplantation (Tx) for biliary atresia. The papillomata were resistant to withdrawal of immunosuppression, to laser surgery, and to subcutaneous interferon (3 MU/m2, three times weekly), necessitating tracheostomy. Oral ribavirin therapy (25 mg/kg/day) in combination with no immunosuppression effectively prevented the rapid recurrence of JLP over 5 yr. Hence, oral ribavirin is a potentially useful therapy in this life-threatening situation and may also be of benefit in other children with severe JLP.
Purification and Characterization of a Neutral Zinc Endopeptidase Secreted by Flavobacterium meningosepticum

Abstract Flavobacterium meningosepticum , Elder strain (ATCC 33958), secretes into the medium a neutral zinc endoprotease as a major component of the extracellular proteins. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity in a simple two-step procedure involving ammonium sulfate precipitation and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The molecular weight of this metalloprotease was determined to be about 27,000 (P27) by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. P27 was comparable to thermolysin in the relative rates of elastin-orcein, azocasein, and azoalbumin hydrolysis. P27 and thermolysin hydrolyzed equally well 2,4-dinitrophenyl-Pro-Gln-Gly-Ile-Ala-Gly-Gln-D-Arg and 2,4-dinitrophenyl-Pro-Leu-G1y-Leu-Trp-Ala-D-Arg-NH 2 at the same primary sites that are susceptible to cleavage by vertebrate collagenases, Gly-Ile, and Gly-Leu. P27 was also capable of partially hydrolyzing Type I acid-soluble calf skin collagen and slowly hydrolyzing N -[3-(2-furyl)acryloyl]-Leu-Gly-Pro-Ala, a bacterial collagenase substrate not cleaved by thermolysin. P27 was further differentiated from thermolysin from the inability of the former to hydrolyze N -[3-(2-furyl) acryloyl]Gly-Leu-NH 2 . In addition, a vertebrate elastase substrate succinyl-Ala-Ala-Ala- p -nitroanilide was hydrolyzed by P27 but not by thermolysin. P27 is a newly described and unique enzyme from the standpoint of substrate specificity and from the fact that it is resistant to inhibition by phosphoramidon, an inhibitor of a number of zinc endopeptidases, including thermolysin.
Optimization and Validation of Steady-State Flowsheet Simulation Metamodels

The use of metamodels allows the optimization of steady-state flowsheet simulations to proceed while requiring only a small number of solutions to be obtained from the simulation. This paper presents the techniques needed to optimize the metamodel forms described by Palmer and Realff. Through a case study, we exemplify characteristics of the solution process and demonstrate the strength of the metamodeling approach. The operating cost of an ammonia synthesis plant is optimized over six input variables using a total of only 32 solutions of the plant simulation as data for the metamodels.
Wave propagation in frazil/pancake, pancake, and fragmented ice covers

Abstract As waves propagate under ice covers, their length and amplitude, as well as the directional distribution of energy may change. These changes depend on the wave frequency and properties of the ice cover. There are several theories for these phenomena, but very limited data to validate these theories. In 2008 a laboratory study at the Hamburgische Schiffbau-Versuchsanstalt GmbH (HSVA) the wave dispersion, including both wavelength change and wave attenuation, was measured for a grease/pancake ice field. The results were compared to those from a grease ice field formed in a smaller wave tank at the University of Washington. It was shown that wave propagation under a grease ice cover followed that of a viscous layer model, but under a pancake ice field it did not. A more extensive experiment was conducted again in 2013 at HSVA to further investigate the wave dispersion. The results reported here are from that experiment with three different types of ice covers: frazil/pancake ice, pancake ice, and fragmented ice floes. The wave number and attenuation are obtained for several monochromatic waves over a range of frequencies. Using an optimization procedure to inversely determine the model parameters, we estimate the equivalent viscoelastic properties of these ice covers. We show that different ice covers require different parameterization to reflect the observed dispersion, hence a possibility of a direct relation between ice morphology and its equivalent mechanical parameters.
Isolation, cell culture and immunocytochemical characterization of oviduct epithelial cells of the cow

Incubation of cow oviducts flushed with 0.1 mg collagenase/ml, for 90 min helped to dislodge large numbers of ciliated and secretory cells. About 90-95% of the isolated epithelial cells were viable. The epithelial cells suspended in DMEM:F-12 + 10% serum attached to the plastic culture dish in 18-20 h after seeding. The ciliated cells which attached to the plastic dish lost their cilia after 4-5 days in culture. The attached cells, which proliferated to form a confluent monolayer 8-10 days after seeding in a 35-mm dish, could be subcultured at least 3 successive times. Some cell aggregates which did not attach to the culture dish proliferated into floating balls of cells. The ciliated cells in the unattached floating colonies maintained the ciliary movement for 9-10 days in the same culture medium. The primary cultures of the ciliated and the secretory cells maintained most of the histoarchitecture observed in intact epithelium. The secretory cells maintained their secretory activity of specific proteins in culture as indicated by immunocytology. The cultured cells contained keratin, a specific cytoskeletal component of epithelial cells.
Auditory responses in the vocal motor system of budgerigars.

Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) are small Australian parrots that can imitate novel sounds in adulthood and therefore serve as a convenient model system for the study of vocal learning in adult animals. Previous anatomical studies had indicated that known auditory regions in the telencephalon of budgerigars are connected, albeit indirectly and rather sparsely, to vocal motor nuclei. Physiological evidence for connections between the auditory and vocal motor systems in budgerigars had been lacking, however. Here, we show that neurons in a telencephalic vocal motor region, i.e., the central nucleus of the lateral neostriatum (NLc), are responsive to auditory stimuli in isoflurane-anesthetized budgerigars. These responses are highly variable from trial to trial and frequently have latencies in excess of 100 ms. Neurons in NLc generally respond better to a budgerigar's own contact call than to a white noise stimulus, but the response preferences of NLc neurons in budgerigars are generally weaker and more diverse than the response preferences of neurons in the high vocal center of songbirds, which is probably analogous to NLc. These data indicate that parrots and songbirds, which have evolved the ability to learn vocalizations independently of one another, have both evolved physiologically effective connections between their auditory and vocal motor systems. Interestingly, however, the anatomical pathways by which the auditory and vocal motor systems interact, and the physiological details of how they communicate, appear to be significantly different between the two taxa.
Rapid non-invasive tests for diagnostics of infectious diseases

A rapid test for an infectious disease that can be used at point-of-care at a physician’s office, a pharmacy, or in the field is critical for the prompt and appropriate therapeutic intervention. Ultimately by treating infections early on will decrease transmission of the pathogen. In contrast to metabolic diseases or cancer where multiple biomarkers are required, infectious disease targets (e.g. antigen, antibody, nucleic acid) are simple and specific for the pathogen causing the disease. Our laboratory has focused on three major infectious disease; HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. These diseases are pandemic in much of the world thus putting natives, tourists and military personnel at risk for becoming infected, and upon returning to the U.S., transmitting these diseases to their contacts. Our devices are designed to detect antigens, antibodies or nucleic acids in blood or saliva samples in less than 30 minutes. An overview describing the current status of each of the three diagnostic platforms is presented. These microfluidic point-of-care devices will be relatively inexpensive, disposable, and user friendly.
Electronic and Steric Effects in Gold(I) Phosphine ThiolateComplexes

The unusual yellow color of Au2(dppm)(SR)2 (R = 4-tolyl; dppm = diphenylphosphinomethane) is attributed to a red-shift in the S→Au charge transfer caused by destabilization of the sulfur highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO). Variable temperature experiments show two broad bands at -80°C in the 31P{1H} NMR spectrum of Au2(dppm)(SR)2 and the activation energy for interconversion is 10 kcal/mol. Only one sharp band is observed down to -80°C in the spectrum of the white complex, Au2(dppe)(SR)2 (dppe = diphenylphosphinoethane). Molecular mechanics calculations on Au2(dppm)(SR)2 and Au2(dppe)(SR)2 reveal that, for Au2(dppe)(SR)2, a series of maxima and minima, separated by 2.5 kcal/mol, occur every 120° which is consistent with rotation around an unhindered carbon-phosphorus single bond. The Au atoms are not within bonding distance in any conformation. Computational results for Au2(dppm)(SR)2 indicate one minimum energy structure in which the Au-P bonds are anti. There is a high energy conformation (9 kcal/mol above the global minimum) where overlap between golds is maximized. The implications of gold-gold bonding in this complex are discussed. The steric influence of the thiolate ligand has been examined by synthesizing a series of dinuclear gold(I) complexes in which the steric properties of the thiolate are varied: Au2(dppm)(SR)2 (R = 2,6-dichlorophenyl; 2,6-dimethylphenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl). The 2,6-disubstituted complexes are white, while the 3,5-dimethyl complex is yellow. These results, along with VT-NMR experiments, are consistent with the conclusion that the more sterically-bulky thiolates hinder the close approach of the golds in the dinuclear complexes.
Human parotid gland secretion: flow rate and interrelationships of pH and inorganic components.

SummaryStimulated parotid saliva was collected from 50 individuals using flavored chicle as the stimulatory agent. Analysis of the flow rate and composition indicated a significant positive correlation between the flow rate and the pH, sodium, calcium, and bicarbonate contents. Intercorrelations between the various salivary constituents were also noted. No differences were found in the composition of saliva samples collected in the fasting and postprandial state. The composition of the parotid secretion was found to vary not only from person to person but between the two glands in the same person.
NAIL AND SKIN HYPERPIGMENTATION ASSOCIATED WITH HYDROXYUREA THERAPY FOR POLYCYTHEMIA VERA

A 63-year-old black woman presented with a complaint of nail and skin darkening for 5 months. Past medical history included polycythemia vera, hypertension, angina, and hi-atal hernia. For several years the patient's medications had included isosorbide dinitrate, iron sulfate, propranolol, and sucralfate. The only recent new medication was hydrox-yurea (500 mg to 1.5 g daily), which the patient had started for polycythemia vera 8 months prior to presentation. She now complained of asymptomatic hyperpigmentation of the finger and toenails, which had begun proximally and extended distally over time. She also noted increased pig-mentation of her face, neck, arms, and buccal mucosa. Physical examination revealed pigmentary changes in all the nails. Dyschromia varied from blue-grey to brown-black. Three different patterns of pigmentation were noted: trans-verse and longitudinal bands that alternated with areas of lighter discoloration (Fig. 1) and diffuse hyperpigmentation (Fig. 2). The nail plates and the proximal and lateral nail folds had a normal morphology aside from the color changes. Macular brown pigmentation was present on the patient's face, neck, lower arms, palms, and buccal mucosa (Fig. 3). The patient noted that the pigmentation in all of these areas began after the hydroxyurea was started; those areas of skin and mucosa had previously been normal. Lab-oratory results were significant for a mild anemia, hemoglo-bin 11.4 g/dL, and hematocrit 35.2%. The patient refused nail or skin biopsy. The patient also noted increased “hardness” of the nails, which made it difficult for her to cut them. Microscopic observation of sections prepared from nail clippings revealed a keratinjzed layer with scattered finely granular brownish pigment. Fontana Masson and Schroml's stains for melanin were positive, and Pearl's stain for iron was negative.
Image quality measurement using the Haar wavelet

The traditional mean-squared-error or peak-signal-to-noise error measures are mainly focused on the pixel-by-pixel difference between the original and compressed images. Such metrics are improper for subjective quality or fidelity assessment, since human perception is very sensitive to correlations between adjacent pixels. In this work, we explore the Haar wavelet to model the space-frequency localization property of human visual system (HVS). It is shown that the physical contrast in different resolutions can be easily represented in terms of transform coefficients. We model HVS with the Haar filter with several visual mechanisms and develop a subjective quality measure which is more consistent with human observation experience.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: tightening the morphological screws on a hepatic rambler.

Background/Aims: In the past, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis has been described mostly in obese women with diabetes. The aim of this study was to describe a series of patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with a different clinical profile. Methods: The clinical, biochemical, and histological features of 33 patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis seen from July 1990 to June 1993 were analyzed. Results: The mean age was 47 years. All patients were antibody to hepatitis C virus-negative. Nineteen of 33 (58%) were men, 20 of 33 (61%) were non-obese, 26 of 33 (79%) had normal glucose levels, and 26 of 33 (79%) had normal lipid levels. Fourteen of 33 (42%) had normal glucose and lipid levels and were not obese. Thirteen of 33 (39%) had pathological increases in fibrosis, 5 of whom had micronodular cirrhosis. Of these 13 with severe, progressive disease, 8 (62%) were women, 8 (62%) were obese, 4 (31%) were diabetic or had an elevated glucose level, and 3 (23%) had hyperlipidemia. Although serum iron studies (transferrin saturation and ferritin) were abnormal in 18 of 31 (58%), no patient had hemochromatosis. Conclusions: Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis can be a severe, progressive liver disease leading to the development of cirrhosis. It should no longer be considered a disease predominantly seen in obese women with diabetes.