cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudomonas and neutrophil products modify transferrin and lactoferrin to create conditions that favor hydroxyl radical formation.

In vivo most extracellular iron is bound to transferrin or lactoferrin in such a way as to be unable to catalyze the formation of hydroxyl radical from superoxide (.O2-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). At sites of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection bacterial and neutrophil products could possibly modify transferrin and/or lactoferrin forming catalytic iron complexes. To examine this possibility, diferrictransferrin and diferriclactoferrin which had been incubated with pseudomonas elastase, pseudomonas alkaline protease, human neutrophil elastase, trypsin, or the myeloperoxidase product HOCl were added to a hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase .O2-/H2O2 generating system. Hydroxyl radical formation was only detected with pseudomonas elastase treated diferrictransferrin and, to a much lesser extent, diferriclactoferrin. This effect was enhanced by the combination of pseudomonas elastase with other proteases, most prominently neutrophil elastase. Addition of pseudomonas elastase-treated diferrictransferrin to stimulated neutrophils also resulted in hydroxyl radical generation. Incubation of pseudomonas elastase with transferrin which had been selectively iron loaded at either the NH2- or COOH-terminal binding site yielded iron chelates with similar efficacy for hydroxyl radical catalysis. Pseudomonas elastase and HOCl treatment also decreased the ability of apotransferrin to inhibit hydroxyl radical formation by a Fe-NTA supplemented hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase system. However, apotransferrin could be protected from the effects of HOCl if bicarbonate anion was present during the incubation. Apolactoferrin inhibition of hydroxyl radical generation was unaffected by any of the four proteases or HOCl. Alteration of transferrin by enzymes and oxidants present at sites of pseudomonas and other bacterial infections may increase the potential for local hydroxyl radical generation thereby contributing to tissue injury.
How secure are your cash transactions

Of all the things dishonest employees can steal, cash is by far the most favored target. And now that money is tight, a new cash fraud scheme seems to hit the newspapers every day. How can you detect and prevent these schemes? The authors have some solid answers. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformations

Introduction Prenatal diagnosis of anorectal malformations currently occurs in 0–15.9% of screened cases. In cloacas, these numbers are unknown. We speculate that some images from prenatal ultrasound studies may suggest the diagnosis of cloaca, but are not recognized because of a lack of suspicion for this diagnosis.
Electron capture half-life of 243Cm

Abstract A sample containing 243 Cm was milked for Am after a known growth period. From the relative activity intensities and mass ratios in the curium sample and the amount of 243 Am which grew in, a value of 1·0 ± 0·1 × 10 4 years was calculated for the electron capture half-life of 243 Cm.
Development of nuclease-mediated site-specific genome modification

Genome engineering is an emerging strategy to treat monogenic diseases that relies on the use of engineered nucleases to correct mutations at the nucleotide level. Zinc finger nucleases can be designed to stimulate homologous recombination-mediated gene targeting at a variety of loci, including genes known to cause the primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs). Recently, these nucleases have been used to correct disease-causing mutations in human cells, as well as to create new animal models for human disease. Although a number of hurdles remain before they can be used clinically, engineered nucleases hold increasing promise as a therapeutic tool, particularly for the PIDs.
New insights into Xantphos/Pd-Catalyzed C-N bond forming reactions : A structural and kinetic study

Both (Xantphos)Pd(dba) and Pd(Xantphos)2 were identified in mixtures of Pd2(dba)3 and Xantphos by use of 31P NMR and independent syntheses. At high ligand concentrations, Pd(Xantphos)2 was found to be the predominant species. Reaction calorimetry was employed to determine whether the formation of Pd(Xantphos)2 affects the rate at which the Pd-catalyzed C−N bond formation occurs between 4-tert-butylbromobenzene and morpholine. Indeed, the concentration of Xantphos dramatically influences the activity of the catalyst, with high concentrations of Xantphos inhibiting the reaction rate due to the formation of Pd(Xantphos)2. Two plausible hypotheses for the low activity of Pd(Xantphos)2 as a precatalyst are (1) a slow rate of Xantphos dissociation from Pd(Xantphos)2 inhibits the formation of an active (Xantphos)Pd0 species and (2) the high degree of insolubility of Pd(Xantphos)2 results in the precipitation of a significant fraction of the precatalyst from the reaction mixture. Although the equilibrium constant...
Validation of the names Emporiaceae, Emporia, and Emporia lockardii

Descriptions of Emporiaceae and Emporia are provided in order to validly publish the names Emporiaceae Mapes & G. W. Rothwell, and Emporia Mapes & G. W. Rothwell. An emended description of Emporia lockardii (Mapes & G. W.Rothwell) Mapes & G. W. Rothwell, published as a new combination, is also provided.
302 Predicting Risk of Lost Work-Time Injury in Small Construction Companies

Objective The construction industry experiences a high rate of injuries. A pattern of minor injuries may increase risk of severe injuries within a company. The assistance of outside safety and health professionals (S&HP) may help reduce risk of injury in construction firms. The goal of this study was to determine the association between minor injuries and risk of lost-time injury and to determine the association between company contact with an external S&HP and risk of lost-time injury. Methods Workers’ compensation data were evaluated covering 1,360 construction companies from 2004–2009. In analysis 1, minor injury experience prior to lost-time injury was categorised as: 0–1 claim, 2–3 claims, 4–6 claims, 7 or more claims. For analysis 2, S&HP contact prior to lost-time injury was categorised as: 0 contacts, 1 contact, 2 contacts, and3 or more contacts. Hazard Ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using a proportional hazards regression model and accounting for repeated events and time-varying covariates. A model based variance estimate accounted for correlated observations within companies over time. Models included confounding covariates of company size and union status. Results Compared to experiencing 0–1 claims, increased risk occurred with experiencing 2–3 claims (HR = 1.25, CI = 1.32- 1.75), 4–6 claims (HR = 1.36, CI = 1.19- 1.56), and 7 or more claims (HR = 1.52, CI = 1.12- 1.39). Compared to experiencing no S&HP contact, reduced risk occurred with experiencing 1 contact (HR = 0.77, CI = 0.67–0.88) and 2 contacts (HR = 0.63, CI = 0.55–0.74). Once companies reached the highest category of contacts, three or more, there was no longer and significant reduction in risk (HR = 1.06, CI = 0.92–1.22). Companies of larger size were associated with greater risk of a lost-time claim, as were union companies. Conclusion The results indicate increasing non-lost-time claims experience is associated with increasing risk of lost-time injury, whereas contact of a S&HP may reduce the risk of lost-time injury.
Oxygen isotope and 26Al-26Mg systematics of aluminum-rich chondrules from unequilibrated enstatite chondrites

Correlated in situ analyses of the oxygen and magnesium isotopic compositions of aluminum-rich chondrules from unequilibrated enstatite chondrites were obtained using an ion microprobe. Among eleven aluminum-rich chondrules and two plagioclase fragments measured for 26Al-26Mg systematics, only one aluminum-rich chondrule contains excess 26Mg from the in situ decay of 26Al; the inferred initial ratio (26Al/27Al)o = (6.8 ± 2.4) x 10^(-6) is consistent with ratios observed in chondrules from carbonaceous chondrites and unequilibrated ordinary chondrites.The oxygen isotopic compositions of five aluminum-rich chondrules and one plagioclase fragment define a line of slope 0.6 0.1 on a three-oxygen-isotope diagram, overlapping the field defined by ferromagnesian chondrules in enstatite chondrites but extending to more 16O-rich compositions with a range in δ18O of about ~12‰. Based on their oxygen isotopic compositions, aluminum-rich chondrules in unequilibrated enstatite chondrites are probably genetically related to ferromagnesian chondrules and are not simple mixtures of materials from ferromagnesian chondrules and calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs).Relative to their counterparts from unequilibrated ordinary chondrites, aluminum-rich chondrules from unequilibrated enstatite chondrites show a narrower oxygen isotopic range and much less resolvable excess 26Mg from the in situ decay of 26Al, probably resulting from higher degrees of equilibration and isotopic exchange during post-crystallization metamorphism. However, the presence of 26Al-bearing chondrules within the primitive ordinary, carbonaceous, and now enstatite chondrites suggests that 26Al was at least approximately homogeneously distributed across the chondrite-forming region.
Hypersonic flow diagnostic studies in a large arc-heated wind tunnel

This study consisted of the experimental investigation of test flow in an arc-heated hypersonic wind tunnel. These tests utilized a high-voltage d.c. arc heater which operated at input powers in excess of 50 Mw and provided reservoir pressures ranging from 100 to 1500 psi and bulk enthalpies from 1500 to 4000 Btu/lb. Local freestream measurements of Pitot pressure, mass flux, stagnation point heat-transfer rate, and wall static pressures were obtained at the exit of a nominal 2-ft-diam conical nozzle. Stagnation enthalpy profiles at the nozzle exit became peaked at high stagnation pressures. From these data, center line enthalpies as high as 6500 Btu/lb were indicated in the flow. Selective comparisons between theory and experiment are presented. At a reservoir enthalpy of approximately 2500 Btu/lb and for stagnation pressures in excess of 500 psi, the expanded flow data were in good agreement with equilibrium expansion theory. However, below 500 psi, the data compared more closely with nonequilibrium theory with the flow frozen downstream of the nozzle throat.
Hyperfine Structure and Quadrupole Moment of Lanthanum-139

We have studied the hyperfine structure of ${\mathrm{La}}^{139}$ in the ground level $5d6{s}^{2}^{2}D$ by the atomic-beam magnetic resonance method. The beam of lanthanum atoms was detected by a hot tungsten filament operated at 2680\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}30\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Of the eight hyperfine intervals resulting from the interaction of a nuclear spin of $\frac{7}{2}$, with the $J$ values of the ground state, seven have been measured. They are, for $J=\frac{5}{2}$, ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{1}=W(F=6)\ensuremath{-}W(F=5)=1120.902\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{2}=W(F=5)\ensuremath{-}W(F=4)=912.793\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{3}=W(F=4)\ensuremath{-}W(F=3)=716.288\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.003 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{4}=W(F=3)\ensuremath{-}W(F=2)=529.090\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.010 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ and for $J=\frac{3}{2}$, ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{6}=W(F=5)\ensuremath{-}W(F=4)=737.967\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.015 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{7}=W(F=4)\ensuremath{-}W(F=3)=551.987\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005 \mathrm{Mc}/sec,$ ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{8}=W(F=3)\ensuremath{-}W(F=2)=391.603\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.010 \mathrm{Mc}/sec.$ From these values the magnetic dipole interaction constants are found to be ${A}^{\ensuremath{'}}(J=\frac{5}{2})=182.1706\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0006$ and ${A}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}(J=\frac{3}{2})=141.1959\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0016$ Mc/sec, the quadrupole interaction constants to be ${B}^{\ensuremath{'}}=54.213\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.014$, and ${B}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}=44.781\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.014$ Mc/sec, while the octupole interaction constants are zero within the accuracy of the present experiment. The unobserved line of the $^{2}D_{\frac{5}{2}}$ hyperfine multiplet is calculated to be ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{5}=W(F=2)\ensuremath{-}W(F=1)=348.843\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.014$ Mc/sec. A serious discrepancy was noted between the observed $A$ values, both relatively and absolutely, and those given by theory. The assumption of $s$-configuration mixing apparently resolved this difficulty. The values of the nuclear quadrupole moment calculated from ${B}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and ${B}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}$ are fairly consistent with each other. The average value, after application of the Sternheimer correction is $Q=(0.268\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.010)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}24}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$.
α-adrenergic regulation of action potentials in isolated rat cardiomyocytes

Abstract Radioligand binding studies and studies in which inositol phosphate levels were assayed have provided substancial evidence for the existence of α 1 -adrenoceptors in isolated rat ventricular myocytes, a pure cardiac preparation free of neuronal and vascular elements. Since correlational electrophysiological studies have not been carried out in this model, we investigated α-adrenergic effects on action potentials using intracellular microelectrodes to impale the myocytes. Epinephrine, in the presence of propranolol (10 −6 M), rapidly increased the action potential duration in a concentration-dependent manner (threshold concentration of 30 nM, EC 50 of 100 nM). The maximal upstroke velocity and overshoot of Ca 2+ -mediated action potentials (15 mM K + ) were also incresed. Epinephrine did not significantly affect the resting membrane potential. The α 1 -adrenoceptor antagonist, prazosin (10 −7 M) blocked epinephrine's effects. LiCl (10 mM), an inhibitor of inositol-phosphate phosphates potentiated the effects of epinephine (30 nM). The results suggest that the isolated rat cardiomyocyte is a suitable preparation for examining the ionic and molecular mechanisms of direct α-adrenergic effects on the cardiac membrane.
Statistical Policy for State and Local Governments

Abstract This report is the product of the Task Force on State and Local Government Statistics formed by the ASA Committee on Government Statistics. The Task Force began its work in March 1985 because of a growing concern among ASA members that state and local governments were undertaking many statistical programs and functions of which the ASA had little knowledge and for which it had little role in supporting, and because of the potential and real impacts of federal policy changes and budget reductions on state statistical programs. The report examines the need for state and local government statistical policy, reviews current practice, summarizes elements of a statistical policy, proposes alternative models for organizing the statistical policy function, and makes recommendations for further action.
Comparison of Functional Protein Transduction Domains Using the NEMO Binding Domain Peptide

Protein transduction domains (PTDs), both naturally occurring and synthetic, have been extensively utilized for intracellular delivery of biologically active molecules both in vitro and in vivo. However, most comparisons of transduction efficiency have been performed using fluorescent markers. To compare efficiency of functional protein transduction, a peptide derived from IkB kinase s (IKKs) that prevents formation of an active IKK complex was used as a biologically active cargo. This peptide, termed NEMO Binding Domain (NBD), is able to block activation of the transcriptional factor NF-κB by IKK, but not basal NF-κB activity. Our results demonstrate that Antp and Tat PTDs were most effective for delivery of NBD for inhibition of NF-kB activation compared to other PTD-NBD in both Hela and 293 cells, however, at higher concentrations (100 µM), the Antp-NBD as well as the FGF-NBD peptide caused significant cellular toxicity. In contrast to the cell culture results, delivery of NBD using 8K (octalysine) and 6R (six arginine) were the most effect in blocking inflammation following local, footpad delivery in a KLH-induced DTH murine model of inflammatory arthritis. These results demonstrate differences between PTDs for delivery of a functional cargo between cell types.
A Comparison Between the New Follitropin Alfa Filled by Mass and the Follitropin Alfa Filled by Bioassay in the Same Egg Donors

OBJECTIVE: To compare the ovarian stimulation characteristics of the new follitropin alfa filled by mass (r-hFSH-fbm) vs. the conventional follitropin alfa filled by bioassay (r-hFSH-bio) in the same egg donor patients. DESIGN: Retrospective observational MATERIALS AND METHODS: From our egg donor program we identified 9 donors who had two egg retrieval cycles, one with r-hFSH-bio (Gonal-f Multidose ®) and other one with r-hFSH-fbm (Gonal-f RFF ®), acting as their own control, for a total of 18 cycles. The protocol of ovarian stimulation was exactly the same in both cycles consisting of GnRH suppression (luteal phase) followed by exclusive stimulation with r-hFSH alfa. Data collected comprised of age, BMI, total days and total amount of r-hFSH, E2 levels at hCG, follicular numbers and diameters, number of oocytes retrieved, fertilized, cleavage and embryo quality. Data was analyzed by JMP 5.0 software with paired T-test for continuous variables and Chi-square test for categorical data as appropriate; significance was set up at p 0.05. RESULTS: The results summarized in the table are expressed as mean standard deviation. The Estradiol peak was statistically higher with the r-hFSH-fbm than with r-hFSH-bio (2,887 vs 2361 pg/ml) (p 0.05). The total amount of FSH utilized, the number of follicles 14 mm, oocytes retrieved, eggs fertilized, cleavage embryos and the total number of embryos at day 3 or 5, showed a positive trend in favor of r-hFSH-fbm , although the differences did not reach statistical significance.
Tension–compression fatigue of a SiC/SiC ceramic matrix composite at 1200 °C in air and in steam☆

Abstract Tension–compression fatigue behavior of a non-oxide ceramic composite with a multilayered matrix was investigated at 1200 °C in laboratory air and in steam. The composite was produced via chemical vapor infiltration (CVI). The composite had an oxidation inhibited matrix, which consisted of alternating layers of silicon carbide and boron carbide and was reinforced with laminated woven Hi-Nicalon™ fibers. Fiber preforms had pyrolytic carbon fiber coating with boron carbide overlay applied. Tension–compression fatigue behavior was studied for fatigue stresses ranging from 80 to 200 MPa at a frequency of 1.0 Hz. Presence of steam significantly degraded the fatigue performance. Specimens that achieved fatigue run-out were subjected to tensile tests to failure to characterize the retained tensile properties. The material retained 100% of its tensile strength. Composite microstructure, as well as damage and failure mechanisms were investigated.
Characterization of Proteins in Human Pancreatic Cancer Serum Using Differential Gel Electrophoresis and Tandem Mass Spectrometry

The purpose of this study was to develop techniques for identifying cancer biomarkers in human serum using differential in-gel electrophoresis (DIGE), and characterizing the protein biomarkers using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). A major problem in profiling protein expression by DIGE comes from the presence of high concentrations of a small number of proteins. Therefore, serum samples were first chromatographed using an immunoaffinity HPLC column (Agilent Technologies), to selectively remove albumin, immunoglobulins, transferrin, haptoglobin, and antitrypsin. Serum samples from three individuals with pancreatic cancer and three individuals without cancer were compared. Serum samples were processed using the immunoaffinity column. Differential protein analysis was performed using DIGE. A total of 56 protein spot-features were found to be significantly increased and 43 significantly decreased in cancer serum samples. These spot features were excised, trypsin digested, and analyzed by MALDI/TOF/TOF (4700...
Rehabilitation Effectiveness Among Long Term Nursing Home Stroke Residents

This study examines rehabilitation effectiveness among a cohort of 801 long term stroke residents in Virginia nursing homes. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine rehabilitation impact on six physical function outcomes after controlling for the influence of resident differences in rehabilitation potential. Rehabilitation was measured as physical (PT) and occupational (OT) therapy provision, but only the PT results are presented since so few residents received OT. PT was associated with an increase in overall physical activities of daily living (PADL) and eating independence. PT had a small effect on PADL improvement and appears to have more power to prevent PADL regression than to produce PADL improvement.
Inflammation as a therapeutic target: a unique role for abciximab

Vascular inflammation is a central pathogenic mechanism for both acute coronary syndromes and the vascular response to injury after percutaneous coronary intervention. The magnitude of vascular inflammation has been correlated with adverse late clinical outcomes (death, myocardial infarction, recurrent ischemia, restenosis). Vascular inflammation is also increased in patients with diabetes mellitus. Many adjunctive pharmacotherapies used in the treatment of acute coronary syndromes or during percutaneous coronary intervention have anti-inflammatory effects, which are distinct from their perceived primary mechanism of action. Data in support of the anti-inflammatory effects of abciximab are presented and the role that these effects may play in modulating atherosclerotic plaque stability and late clinical outcomes is discussed. Vascular inflammation represents the "final common pathway" for many disease processes and thus represents the "ultimate therapeutic target" for pharmacologic intervention.
Tunable optical correlator using an optical frequency comb for generating multiple taps in a tapped-delay-line composed of a single nonlinear element

We experimentally demonstrate a tunable optical correlator to search for multiple patterns among QPSK symbols in 20 Gbuad stream. We use an optical frequency comb to generate coherent signals and add them coherently using a single PPLN waveguide. Multiple patterns with different lengths are successfully searched on QPSK signals.
Enslaved Finite Difference Schemes for Nonlinear Dissipative PDEs

We show how the accuracy of a given finite difference scheme approximating a dissipative nonlinear PDE may be improved. The numerical solutions are decomposed into two parts that may be interpreted as approximating the large and small scales of the true solutions. By enslaving the small scales in terms of the larger ones, we derive a new difference scheme that is, in general, more accurate than the original scheme. The new scheme is also more computationally efficient, provided that the time derivatives of the problem are not too large. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Endoscopically assisted transanal division of pouch septum after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis

Prior to diverting loop ileostomy reversal in a 49-year-old man with ulcerative colitis and an ileal pouch–anal anastomosis, a pouchogram revealed a filling defect in the mid portion of the pouch (1). Pouchoscopy confirmed a 4-cm mucosal pouch septum (2). Under colonoscopic visualization via the defunctionalized limb of the loop ileostomy, the septum was divided transanally using a laparoscopic stapler (3). A postprocedure pouchogram demonstrated normal pouch anatomy (4). Uneventful take-down of the ileostomy was performed 3 months later. 1 Pouchogram, demonstrating a filling defect. 2 Pouchoscopy. Photograph of pouch septum. 3 Illustration of the pouch septum (A); transanal division of the pouch septum using an Endo-GIA stapler under colonoscopic visualization (B); resultant anatomy (C). 4 Pouchogram (postprocedure) demonstrating the resultant normal pouch anatomy 1
Phase angle analysis for stress corrosion cracking of carbon steel in fuel-grade ethanol: Experiments and simulation

The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of carbon steel in simulated fuel-grade ethanol (SFGE) was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and slow strain rate test (SSRT). Phase angle at low frequency range (<1 Hz) is sensitive to SCC process of carbon steel in SFGE. Phase angle decreases during an active crack growth. Frequency at maximum phase angle also increases towards an active cracking region at around 1 Hz. A transmission line model (TLM) is used to simulate the EIS response for SCC based on real geometrical parameters. By systematically changing the values of the circuit elements, the activities of the sample surface, crack tip and crack wall were studied in detail. By comparing the Bode plots from both experiment and simulation during SCC, a detailed mechanistic picture is derived to describe the behavior of the stress corrosion crack on carbon steel in the fuel-grade ethanolic environment.
Estimators of a distribution function with increasing failure rate average

Abstract A nonparametric estimator G n of a distribution function F with increasing failure rate average (IFRA) is constructed. This estimator G n is so constructed that its hazard function C n is the greatest star-shaped minorant of the sample hazard function. The estimator G n is itself IFRA. Denoting the sample distribution function by F n and the sample hazard function by H n , it follows from Millar (1979) that F n is an asymptotically minimax estimator of F if F is IFRA. We prove, under suitable restrictions of F , and for any fixed λ with F ( λ ) n 1 2 sup x⩽λ ||G n (x)−F n (x)|| and n 1 2 sup x⩽λ ||C n (x)−H n (x)|| both tend to zero in probability. That is, G n and F n are asymptotically n 1 2 - equivalent as estimators of the true distribution functions. Similar results can be obtained for a DFRA distribution.
The steroid induction of glutamine synthetase in chick embryo retinas in culture a possible role of corticosteroid-binding globulin

Abstract The relationship between the induction of retinal glutamine synthetase in tissue culture and changes in the corticosteroid-binding capacity of serum in the culture medium was investigated. As measured by equilibrium dialysis, corticosteroid-binding capacity was consistently higher in the medium after the culture period indicating a removal of corticosteroid from the medium during this time. The effect of heat inactivation of serum corticosteroid-binding globulin and the effect of steroid depleted (stripped) serum in the medium on the induction were studied. The uptake of [1,2−3H2]-cortisol by retinal tissue in the presence of varying concentrations of stripped serum was found to parallel glutamine synthetase induction. These studies demonstrate: (1) the uptake of endogenous glucocorticoid of the serum-containing culture medium during glutamine synthetase induction; (2) the identity of steroid with a previously reported inducing factor in serum; and (3) an influence of corticosteroid-binding globulin in mediating the effects of the hormone.
Treatment of Unusual Pulmonary Amebic Abscess with Chloroquine

Pleuro-pulmonary amebiasis complicates amebic hepatic abscesses in about 15 per cent of the reported cases, as indicated by Ochsner and DeBakey1 in their comprehensive review of the subject In 1936. The usual pulmonary complication consists either of a lower lobe abscess or a broncho-hepatic fistula, both of which arise by direct extension of an hepatic abscess through the diaphragm. Craig2 states that “the lower right lobe of the lung Is the site of the pulmonary amebic abscess almost invariably.” Amebic empyema arises in 17 to 33 per cent of the reported cases. Primary amebic broncho-pulmonary involvement has been reported, but in these cases it cannot be said with certainty that amebic colitis was not present. Ochsner and DeBakey’ found that “hematogenous” pulmonary abscesses with independent liver abscesses occurred in 10.4 per cent of 153 cases collected from the literature and in none of their own 13 cases. Craig2 refers to Girgis’ two fatal cases of multiple pulmonary and hepatic amebic abscesses in which Endamoeba histolytica could be demonstrated in emboli in the pulmonary arterial vessels, thus supporting the view that hematogenous dissemination of the parasite may occur, presumably from the liver through the right side of the heart to the lung. In the absence of demonstrable contiguity between hepatic and pulmonary lesions, one must assume that this type of blood-borne dissemination may occur. The following case report is of interest both because of the unusual location of the pulmonary lesion and the fact that Emetine alone failed to effect a clinical cure, while subsequent Chloroquine therapy caused a complete clearing of the pathological process.
Detection of temporal structure depends on spatial structure

Observers can more easily detect correlated patterns of temporal contrast modulation within hybrid visual images composed of two components when those components are drawn from the same original picture (Blake, R., & Yang, Y. (1997). Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, 94, 7115-7119). To learn whether spatial phase is a mediating variable, we measured thresholds for detection of contrast modulation over time among component gratings while manipulating spatial phase among those components. In Experiment 1, observers more easily detected correlated contrast modulation when two component gratings were aligned in peaks-subtract phase. Experiment 2 showed that this phase-dependent detectability of synchronized contrast modulation is mediated by the phase-dependent, non-linear interaction among spatial frequency channels. The rigorous evaluation of several a priori reasonable hypotheses indicates that the phase-dependent detectability is not based on local spatial features such as local luminance, contrast or luminance gradient. Taken together, our results indicate that the spatial phase relationship and the temporal correlation of contrast modulation of two component gratings are both important for triggering facilitatory interaction between neural analyzers tuned to those gratings.
Anion exchange resin selectivity as a function of resin composition, revisited

Abstract It is found that the Cl3CO2−Cl− and ReO4−Cl− (and presumably the ClO4−Cl−) Dowex 1 anion-exchange resin systems show no change or only a moderate increase in K B Cl with increasing Cl− mole fraction. This is in contradiction to a previous study with Dowex 2 resin that showed a very marked decrease in K B Cl . Thus, these systems show the same behavior as other univalent anion exchange systems, and there is no need to invoke a special ion-pair cluster mechanism.
A Predictive Ignition Delay Correlation Under Steady-State and Transient Operation of a Direct Injection Diesel Engine

Available correlations for the ignition delay in pulsating, turbulent, two-phase, reacting mixtures found in a diesel engine often have limited predictive ability, especially under transient conditions. This study focuses on the development of an ignition delay correlation, based on engine data, which is suitable for predictions under both steady-state and transient conditions. Ignition delay measurements were taken on a heavy-duty diesel engine across the engine speed/load spectrum, under steady-state and transient operation. The dynamic start of injection was calculated by using a skip-fire technique to determine the dynamic needle lift pressure from a measured injection pressure profile. The dynamic start of combustion was determined from the second derivative of measured cylinder pressure. The inferred ignition delay measurements were correlated using a modified Arrhenius expression to account for variations in fuel/air composition during transients. The correlation has been compared against a number of available correlations under steady-state conditions. In addition, comparisons between measurements and predictions under transient conditions are made using the extended thermodynamic simulation framework of Assanis and Heywood. It is concluded that the proposed correlation provides better predictive capability under both steady-state and transient operation.
Family functioning and maternal distress in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa.

Objective: To determine the nature of family distress in families of girls with anorexia nervosa (AN), this study compared aspects of family functioning in adolescent girls with AN to girls with a chronic illness and girls without a condition. Method: Participants consisted of 25 adolescent girls with a primary DSM-IV diagnosis of AN, 20 girls with an ICD-10 diagnosis of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), and 20 girls from the community. Mothers and daughters completed questionnaires of family functioning and psychological symptoms. Results: When compared with mothers of daughters with IDDM, families of girls with AN experienced greater family conflict, reduced parental alliance, and increased feelings of depression. However, once the emotional impact of the illness on the mothers was statistically controlled, group differences were no longer significant.
Performance of a stiff support system in soft clay

The performance of an excavation support system for a subway station renovation project in Chicago and its effects on an adjacent, shallow-foundation supported building are presented. The 13-m-deep...
Preproduction: the industry secret

Pre-Production - The Industry Secret I have never forgotten the introduction that John Lasseter wrote in his "Principles of Animation…" article. "The appearance of reliable, user friendly [computer] animation systems… will enable people to produce more high quality computer animation. Unfortunately, these systems will also enable people to produce more bad computer animation."[1] As a teacher of animation I long ago added this one to my list of truths witnessed every day. There are two reasons for this phenomenon. First, students don’t integrate the basics; they prefer to learn the latest 3D animation software tools believing this will compensate for their lack of skills. As Ed Catmull, V.P. Pixar, observed “this doesn’t work… rather than thinking that the computer can replace these skills, the computer is really an amplifier for what skills you do have.”[2] Second, students jump into making the animation [production] without planning; without Pre-Production. In the frequent “How-to” shows on TV we often see “How” the animation [production] was made and “How” everything was composited in post-production but the unglamorous steps of pre-production are all too often glossed over in these segments. However, I'm happy to report that the animators and directors who live and die by their pre-production have generously shared their secrets with us in the “supplemental” sections and disks that come with the special editions of the animated movie on DVD and laser disks. You won’t necessarily find this information on the VHS copy or the consumer DVD editions.
Cotton Planting Date: Yield, Seedling Survival, and Plant Growth

New cultivars, changes in technology and production practices, and climate change may have altered the optimal planting time for cotton (Gossypium birsutum L.) in the midsouthern United States. A field experiment was conducted from 2002 through 2005 on Gigger silt loam to define planting date (PD) effects on selected cotton cultivars. Six cultivars in 2002 (Deltapine DP555BR and Delta Pearl, Phytogen PHY355, SureGrow SG215BR and SG821, and Stoneville ST4892BR) and eight cultivars in 2003 through 2005 (DP555BR, DeltaPearl, PSC355, DP444BR, Fibermax FM960BR, PHY410RR, ST4892BR, and ST5599BR) were planted on or near eight PDs (25 March; 5, 15, and 25 April; 5, 15, and 25 May; and 5 June). Data were collected on seedling emergence, plant height, main stem node number, nodes above white flower, lint percentage, lint yield, fiber properties, soil and air temperature, rainfall, and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Planting date and cultivar affected most measured variables, and although there were some significant PD x Cultivar interactions, these were very small in relation to the main effects. Low soil temperature, few heat units, and rainfall combined to reduce seedling survival at early PD to <15%. For lint yield, the optimal PD was earlier than in previous studies and the highest average yield (1700 kg ha -1 ) was produced from a PD between 15 April and 5 May. Cotton planted at a PD later than 5 May did not benefit from recent changes and improvements in technology and, therefore, incurred yield declines similar to those reported in the 1970s.
Mortality Rate in the Laying House and Egg Production of Survivors

Abstract High viability in the first laying year is one of the most important characteristics of a superior laying flock. A satisfactory measure of viability may be arrived at in pedigreed stock by recording the mortality in families of sisters during the first laying year where no culling is practiced provided families of sisters have been hatched, reared and housed together to make various environmental influences as constant as possible. A partial review of pertinent literature on this problem was made by Hays (1949) and need not be reported here. Studies by Lush, Lamoreaux and Hazel (1948) and by Robertson and Lerner (1949) indicate that viability has a low degree of heritability, the value being about .08. Unpublished studies on the Rhode Island Red flock of the Massachusetts Agricultural Experiment Station indicate a heritability of egg production of about .44. In view of these findings it is conceivable that egg production …
A biomechanic comparison of an internal radiocarpal-spanning 2.4-mm locking plate and external fixation in a model of distal radius fractures.

Purpose To compare the biomechanic stability of distal radius fracture fixation with a new internal radiocarpal-spanning 2.4-mm locking plate, which acts as an internal distal radius fixator, versus a standard distal radius external fixator. The number of locking screws necessary for adequate fracture fixation was also assessed. Methods Ten cadaveric specimens were mounted in a loading fixture with cables attached to the 2 flexor and 3 extensor wrist tendons. A 1-cm osteotomy was created to simulate an unstable distal radius fracture. The radiocarpal-spanning locking plate was fixed to the radius and index metacarpal with 4 screws proximally and 4 distally. The specimen was incrementally loaded through the tendons. Motion at the fracture site was determined. Screws were sequentially removed from the construct, the specimen was again incrementally loaded, and fracture motion was measured. The fixation was then changed to an external fixator, and the loading tests were repeated. Results Fracture fixation with the radiocarpal-spanning 2.4-mm locking plate was significantly more stable with 4 screws proximally and 4 screws distally (4 × 4) and with the 3 × 3 configuration than with the external fixator in both flexion and extension. The 4 × 4 screw configuration was not significantly different from the 3 × 3 screw configuration. The 4 × 4 screw configuration was significantly more stable than the 2 × 2 and 1 × 1 screw configurations in both flexion and extension. All internal fixator configurations and the external fixator showed more fracture displacement at increasingly higher loads. Conclusions Fracture fixation with the new internal radiocarpal-spanning 2.4-mm locking plate is more stable than with a standard distal radius external fixator. Only three 2.4-mm locking screws proximally and three 2.4-mm locking screws distally are required for adequate fixation of the locking spanning plate.
Perioperative considerations in a newly described subtype of congenital long QT syndrome

An infant with a newly-described subtype of congenital long QT syndrome is presented, along with her perioperative management on three separate occasions. During each anaesthetic characteristic arrhythmias occurred. The available literature and rational approaches to these high risk patients are reviewed.
Antarctic fish tubulins: heterogeneity, structure, amino acid compositions and charge.

Abstract 1. 1. Tubulins purified from the brain tissues of three Antarctic fishes (Notothenia gibberifrons, Notothenia coriiceps neglecta, and Chaenocephalus aceratus) contain equimolar quantities of the α and β chains and are free of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) and other non-tubulin proteins. 2. 2. When examined by isoelectric focusing and by two-dimensional electrophoresis, brain tubulins from the Antarctic fishes were found to be highly heterogeneous; each was resolved into 15–20 distinct variants. The range of isoelectric points displayed by the Antarctic fish tubulins (5.30–5.75) is slightly more basic than that of bovine brain tubulin (5.25–5.60). 3. 3. Peptide mapping demonstrated that tubulins from the Antarctic fishes and the cow differ in structure. 4. 4. The amino acid compositions of piscine and mammalian tubulins are similar, but the Antarctic fish tubulins apparently contain fewer glutamyl and/or glutaminyl residues than do tubulins from the temperate channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) and the cow. 5. 5. Native tubulin from N. coriiceps neglecta possesses 1 2 fewer net negative charges per tubulin dimer than does bovine tubulin. 6. 6. We suggest that the enhanced assembly of Antarctic fish tubulins at low temperatures (−2 to + 2°C) results from adaptive, perhaps subtle, changes in their tubulin subunits.
MLE+: design and deployment integration for energy-efficient building controls

While building simulation software tools are excellent at carrying out accurate and realistic building simulations they only provide very basic control methods. On the other hand, control engineers and researchers have explored advanced control strategies for energy-efficient operation of a building, but more often than not, such methods are based on simplified physical models instead. We present MLE+, a tool for energy-efficient building automation design, co-simulation and analysis. The tool leverages the high-fidelity plant simulation capabilities of building modeling software, EnergyPlus, and the scientific computation and design capabilities of Matlab/Simulink for controller design. MLE+ facilitates integrated building simulation and controller formulation with integrated support for system identification, control design, optimization, simulation analysis and communication between software applications and building equipment. In this demo, we will show how MLE+ can be used for systematic design of controllers for energy-efficient building model in EnergyPlus. We will also show the capability of MLE+ to control Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) devices in buildings through the BACnet protocol.
PERMANENT URINARY RETENTION AFTER TRANSURETHRAL INJECTION OF COLLAGEN

A 50-year-old woman presented with a 3-year history of increasingly symptomatic stress urinary incontinence. Leakage of urine occurred daily with cough, sneeze and laugh, and required 2 to 3 pads per day for adequate protection. Stress incontinence was confirmed on physical examination and cystoscopy. In addition, urodynamics revealed a stable bladder up to 450 cc, and the patient was able to empty the bladder to completion. She was interested in pursuing therapy, and endoscopic and surgical options were discussed. A sling was recommended but the patient was adamantly opposed to any open procedure and instead chose a trial of transurethral injection of collagen. A skin test was administered and there was no evidence of allergic response at 1 month. The initial collagen injection was placed transurethrally a little more than 1 month after the skin test without problems. A total of 2.5 cc were placed with little improvement in symptoms. A second injection (2.5 cc) was placed 5 weeks later, again without difficulty. Two weeks after the second injection the patient began to experience difficulty emptying the bladder, with a poor stream and a sense of incomplete emptying. At the same time she noticed redness and firmness to the initial skin test site on her arm, which had previously been a benign area. Trials with anti-inflammatory medications were attempted with resolution of the cutaneous reaction. However, within 3 months of the second injection the patient was requiring regular clear intermittent catheterization to empty the bladder. Cystoscopic evaluation 6 months later revealed good urethral coaptation and normal appearing mucosa at the level of the prior injection. In addition, urethral dilation at that time to a diameter of 30Fr failed to resolve the inability to empty the bladder. Pelvic examination continues to reveal a prominent, nontender collar of firmness at the level of the bladder neck, and the patient has remained in retention for 2.5 years following the last collagen injection. Erythema at the skin test site has not returned, and at no time did she have other symptoms of a systemic allergic reaction. Recent ultrasound of the area revealed a 4 cm. complex hypoechoic lesion at the level of the bladder neck. The patient has been offered attempts to incise and clean out the area with a subsequent fascial sling if the stress incontinence recurs. However, she has refused this therapy, preferring to remain in retention and on clean intermittent catheterization rather than risk potential recurrence of incontinence with further surgical attempts. DISCUSSION
Fabrication of Catalytic Membranes for the Treatment of Drinking Water Using Combined Ozonation and Ultrafiltration

The removal of disinfection byproducts and their precursors was investigated using a combined ozonation-ultrafiltration system. A commercial membrane was coated 20 or 40 times with iron oxide nanoparticles (4-6 nm in diameter). With this membrane, the concentration of dissolved organic carbon was reduced by >85% and the concentrations of simulated distribution system total trihalomethanes and simulated distribution system halo acetic acids decreased by up to 90% and 85%, respectively. When the coated membrane was used, the concentrations of aldehydes, ketones, and ketoacids in the permeate were reduced by >50% as compared to that obtained with the uncoated membranes. Hydroxyl or other radicals produced at the iron oxide coated membrane surface as a result of ozone decomposition are believed to have enhanced the degradation of the natural organic matter, thereby reducing the concentration of disinfection byproducts. While increasing the number of times the membrane was coated from 20 to 40 did not significantly reduce the concentrations of most of the parameters measured, it did result in a significant decrease in the concentrations of ozonation byproducts. Increasing the sintering temperature from 500 to 900 degrees C also resulted in an improvement in the removal of the ozonation byproducts.