cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probing co-operative DNA-binding in vivo: The lac O1: O3 interaction

Abstract The lac primary (O1) and weak upstream pseudo (O3) operators contained on a plasmid were footprinted in vivo in order to determine whether they act co-operatively in binding lac repressor in the cell. The occupancy at O3 by lac repressor was substantially reduced upon deletion of the lac primary operator, demonstrating co-operativity at a distance. Plots of operator occupancy versus active repressor concentration were obtained for each operator by treating the cells with different amounts of the lac inducer isopropyl-β- d -thiogalactoside and probing lac repressor binding. This analysis can be used to obtain relative binding constants in vivo and demonstrates that O3 binds repressor only 10·3-fold less tightly than O1 in their co-operative interaction. The removal of DNA torsional tension in vivo by the use of coumermycin leads to the same loss of binding at O3 as does deleting O1. These in-vivo results are analogous to the in-vitro situation, where O3 binds repressor strongly in a DNA repression loop only on supercoiled templates.
D-galactosamine hepatotoxicity. 3. Normoactive smooth endoplasmic reticulum and modification by phenobarbital.

Abstract The administration of a single dose of d -galactosamine-HCL (375 mg/kg ip) to female rats produces severe hepatocellular necrosis. Ultrastructural studies disclose a variety of nuclear and cytoplasmic changes including focal and diffuse hyperplasia of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The functional capacity of the hyperplastic smooth endoplasmic reticulum was investigated by several criteria. Pentobarbital sleeping time determined 6, 16, and 24 hr after d -galactosamine injection was similar to that observed in saline-treated control animals. Hepatic microsomal protein concentration, cytochrome P-450 content, and NADPH cytochrome c -reductase activity measured at 20 hr were similar in d -galactosamine-treated and control animals. Thus, using these modalities, the hyperplastic smooth endoplasmic reticulum induced by d -galactosamine was not associated with an altered microsomal drug metabolizing activity. When phenobarbital was administered in a dose of 80 mg/kg for 4 days prior to d -galactosamine, the histological evidence of hepatocellular injury and lipid accumulation was less severe than in animals receiving d -galactosamine alone. The mechanism of the modification of hepatotoxicity and fatty liver by phenobarbital remains to be determined.
Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: are international guidelines possible?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy that arises in chronic liver disease. It is currently responsible for over 695,000 deaths internationally every year and its incidence continues to rise as liver cirrhosis and its complications persist as major health problems worldwide (1,2).
Primary Cardiac Osteosarcoma: AIRP Best Cases in Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Editor’s Note.—RadioGraphics continues to publish radiologic-pathologic case material selected from the American Institute for Radiologic Pathology (AIRP) “best case” presentations. The AIRP conducts a 4-week Radiologic Pathology Correlation Course, which is offered five times per year. On the penultimate day of the course, the best case presentation is held at the American Film Institute Silver Theater and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, Md. The AIRP faculty identifies the best cases, from each organ system, brought by the resident attendees. One or more of the best cases from each of the five courses are then solicited for publication in RadioGraphics. These cases emphasize the importance of radiologic-pathologic correlation in the imaging evaluation and diagnosis of diseases encountered at the institute and its predecessor, the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP).
Rapid and Low-cost Prototyping of Medical Devices Using 3D Printed Molds for Liquid Injection Molding

Biologically inert elastomers such as silicone are favorable materials for medical device fabrication, but forming and curing these elastomers using traditional liquid injection molding processes can be an expensive process due to tooling and equipment costs. As a result, it has traditionally been impractical to use liquid injection molding for low-cost, rapid prototyping applications. We have devised a method for rapid and low-cost production of liquid elastomer injection molded devices that utilizes fused deposition modeling 3D printers for mold design and a modified desiccator as an injection system. Low costs and rapid turnaround time in this technique lower the barrier to iteratively designing and prototyping complex elastomer devices. Furthermore, CAD models developed in this process can be later adapted for metal mold tooling design, enabling an easy transition to a traditional injection molding process. We have used this technique to manufacture intravaginal probes involving complex geometries, as well as overmolding over metal parts, using tools commonly available within an academic research laboratory. However, this technique can be easily adapted to create liquid injection molded devices for many other applications.
Almost-affable abelian groups

Abstract In this paper we show that a direct summand of a simply presented mixed abelain group is an almost affable group. As a consequence, the classification theorem due to the author is extended to the largest possible class.
Anti-N reagents in elucidation of the genetical basis of human blood-group MN specificities.

. Studies of the reactivity of the various anti-human blood group N reagents with isolated human blood group M and N antigens and smaller molecules revealed besides the expected interaction with N antigens that M antigens inhibited all rabbit anti-N sera, Vicia graminea extract and most human anti-N sera. Mild acid hydrolysis of M antigens, which released sialic acid only, led to a large increase or de novo appearance of this inhibitory capacity. The partially hydrolyzed M antigens became temporarily indistinguishable from N antigens, indicating that the product of the N gene is the immediate precursor of the product of the M gene and that the allele to the M gene is an amorph. In the NM biosynthetic pathway, the Vicia-reactive structure seems to precede the N-specific molecule. Uncovering of N-specific structures paralleled the appearance of terminal β-d-galactopyranosyl structures; their exposure to β-galactosidase resulted in destruction of N specificity. Galactose and some β-d-galactopyranosyl derivatives inhibited the N erythrocyte agglutination by some anti-N sera. Ganglioside I and ‘asialoganglioside’ were inhibitors of anti-N reagents and anti-ganglioside serum reacted preferentially with human blood group N antigens.
Functional properties of ficoll and their influence on anther culture responses of wheat

The effects of ficoll in liquid culture media have been contradictory in previous reports. The objective of this study was to determine the functional properties of ficoll in potato 4 (P4) liquid induction medium and their influence on anther culture responses of wheat. Ficoll addition significantly (p≤0.01) reduced callus production from the anthers of spring wheat cv. Pavon 76. The reduction was directly related to the concentration of ficoll added within the range of 50 to 200 g l-1 medium. Although the addition of ficoll significantly (p≤0.01) increased the percentage of regenerable calli and the ratio of green vs. albino plants, the final yield of green plants per 100 anthers was significantly lower. Consistent results also were obtained with four other spring wheat genotypes (Chris, Butte 86, WA 6916, and Edwall). Ficoll concentration affected the density, viscosity, and osmolality of the liquid media. The higher medium density caused by ficoll addition increased the percentage of floating calli, as well as the percentage of regenerable calli and the ratio of green vs. albino plants. However, the increased medium viscosity by ficoll addition significantly (p≤0.01) reduced callus production. Ficoll addition also increased medium osmolality, which affected callus production by interacting with the sugar concentration of the induction media. Using response functions, the estimated maltose concentration for maximum callus production was 105 g l-1 for the standard P4 media, compared with 68 g l-1 for the ficoll-containing P4 media. These results clearly demonstrate that ficoll addition to the liquid P4 induction medium containing high sucrose concentration (90 g l-1) is deleterious to the maximum production of green plants from wheat anther culture.
Conformational changes induced in tobacco mosaic virus nucleic acid by ultraviolet radiation

In order to study any Conformational changes associated with ultraviolet irradiation of TMV-RNA, methods of circular dichroism and absorbance-temperature profile were applied. RNA irradiated in water at 254 nm showed a distinct change in CD spectrum, but there was only a slight change accompanying irradiation in phosphate buffer.
FAT10 knock out mice livers fail to develop Mallory-Denk bodies in the DDC mouse model.

Abstract Mallory–Denk bodies (MDBs) are aggresomes composed of undigested ubiqutinated short lived proteins which have accumulated because of a decrease in the rate of their degradation by the 26s proteasome. The decrease in the activity of the proteasome is due to a shift in the activity of the 26s proteasome to the immunoproteasome triggered by an increase in expression of the catalytic subunits of the immunoproteasome which replaces the catalytic subunits of the 26s proteasome. This switch in the type of proteasome in liver cells is triggered by the binding of IFNγ to the IFNγ sequence response element (ISRE) located on the FAT10 promoter. To determine if either FAT10 or IFNγ are essential for the formation of MDBs we fed both IFNγ and FAT10 knock out (KO) mice DDC added to the control diet for 10 weeks in order to induce MDBs. Mice fed the control diet and Wild type mice fed the DDC or control diet were compared. MDBs were located by immunofluorescent double stains using antibodies to ubiquitin to stain MDBs and FAT10 to localize the increased expression of FAT10 in MDB forming hepatocytes. We found that MDB formation occurred in the IFNγ KO mice but not in the FAT10 KO mice. Western blots showed an increase in the ubiquitin smears and decreases β 5 (chymotrypsin-like 26S proteasome subunit) in the Wild type mice fed DDC but not in the FAT10 KO mice fed DDC. To conclude, we have demonstrated that FAT10 is essential to the induction of MDB formation in the DDC fed mice.
Inflation and asset prices in a monetary economy

Abstract This paper derives solutions for inflation and asset prices in a cash-in-advance economy with logarithmic preferences. Although the monetary and real processes are independent, the money supply affects real interest rates and stock returns, as well as nominal interest rates.
Hexokinase Activity as a Function of Age of the Human Erythrocyte

THE human erythrocyte normally survives in the circulation approximately 120 days. The factors which limit the cell's survival are unknown. An important factor may be an age-related diminution in the activity of one or more enzymes vital to the cell1. A decrease in the activity of a key glycolytic enzyme, or enzymes, might be of particular importance because the mature human red cell derives virtually all its energy through glycolysis. Certain inherited enzymatic defects, both in the anaerobic glycolytic and in the pentose phosphate pathways of the human red cell, are associated with shortening of the lifespan of the cell2–5.
New soybean oil‐styrene‐divinylbenzene thermosetting copolymers. III. Tensile stress–strain behavior

The tensile stress–strain behavior and fracture properties of some new soybean oil based polymeric materials were investigated at room temperature. These materials were prepared by the cationic copolymerization of regular soybean oil, low saturation soybean oil (LoSatSoy oil), or conjugated LoSatSoy oil with styrene and the diene comonomers divinylbenzene, norbornadiene, or dicyclopentadiene in a process initiated by boron trifluoride diethyl etherate (BF3 · OEt2) or related modified initiators. These new polymeric materials exhibited tensile stress–strain behavior ranging from soft rubbers through ductile to relatively brittle plastics. The Young's moduli of these polymers varied from 3 to 615 MPa, the ultimate tensile strengths varied from 0.3 to 21 MPa, and the elongation at break varied from 1.6 to 300%. These properties are obviously related to their crosslink densities. The conjugated LoSatSoy oil polymers had higher mechanical properties than the corresponding LoSatSoy oil and regular soybean oil polymers with the same stoichiometry. Some conjugated LoSatSoy oil polymers with appropriate stoichiometries showed yielding behavior in the tensile test process. A variety of new polymer materials can thus be prepared by varying the stoichiometry, the type of soybean oil, and the crosslinking agent. These soybean oil based polymers possessed mechanical properties comparable to those of commercially available rubbery materials and conventional plastics and thus may serve as replacements in many applications. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 39: 60–77, 2001
Abnormalities in Lung Elastic Properties and Surfactant Function in Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

We have examined the lungs from five patients who died with the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Pressure volume curves were obtained and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was studied on a surface balance. The pressure volume curves revealed reduced compliance compared to normal or near normal lungs. A significant loss of volume was also found. The data obtained from the surface balance studies show a normal range of minimum surface tendon when compared to "normals," but the ARDS lung lavage fluid revealed an increase in surface film compressibility relative to "normal." The increased compressibility may be an important factor contributing to the stiff lungs of patients with the adult respiratory distress syndrome.
Poxviral B1 Kinase Overcomes Barrier to Autointegration Factor, a Host Defense against Virus Replication

Barrier to autointegration factor (BAF) is a DNA-binding protein found in the nucleus and cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that functions to establish nuclear architecture during mitosis. Herein, we demonstrate a cytoplasmic role for BAF in host defense during poxviral infections. Vaccinia is the prototypic poxvirus, a family of DNA viruses that replicate exclusively in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Mutations in the vaccinia B1 kinase (B1) compromise viral DNA replication, but the mechanism by which B1 achieves this has remained elusive. We now show that BAF acts as a potent inhibitor of poxvirus replication unless its DNA-binding activity is blocked by B1-mediated phosphorylation. These data position BAF as the effector of an innate immune response that prevents replication of exogenous viral DNA in the cytoplasm. To enable the virus to evade this defense, the poxviral B1 has evolved to usurp a signaling pathway employed by the host cell.
Demonstration of a plasma mirror for microwaves

A plane sheet of partially ionized plasma produced by a pulsed, hollow-cathode glow discharge in an axial magnetic field has been shown to reflect X-band microwaves as well as an equivalent sheet of metal. The plasma mirror can be established and extinguished on a time scale of about 20 mu s and could form the basis of an extremely agile radar system. >
Effects of Delayed Reinforcement and FR Size on Pre-Ratio Pausing:

The present study examined pre-ratio pausing as a function of FR size (10, 75, and 150) and delay of reinforcement (0 to 180 sec.). Results indicated that pre-ratio pause-durations varied directly with both of these variables. Response rate, exclusive of the pre-ratio pause, was not related consistently with either FR size or delay of reinforcement.
New directions in X-ray microscopy

The development of high brightness X-ray sources and high resolution X-ray optics has led to rapid advances in X-ray microscopy. Scanning microscopes and full-field instruments are in operation at synchrotron light sources worldwide, and provide spatial resolution routinely in the 25–50 nm range using zone plate focusing elements. X-ray microscopes can provide elemental maps and/or chemical sensitivity in samples that are too thick for electron microscopy. Lensless techniques, such as diffraction microscopy, holography and ptychography are also being developed. In high resolution imaging of radiation-sensitive material the effects of radiation damage needs to be carefully considered. This article is designed to provide an introduction to the current state and future prospects of X-ray microscopy for the non-expert.
UNSTRUCTURED SOCIALIZING, COLLECTIVE EFFICACY, AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR AMONG URBAN YOUTH*

Relying on extensions of routine activities and social disorganization theories, we examine whether 1) neighborhood social characteristics shape opportunities for the development of unstructured socializing with peers among adolescents, 2) whether unstructured socializing leads to an increase in violent behavior within urban communities, and 3) whether neighborhood collective efficacy modifies the impact of unstructured socializing on violence. The study outlined in this article uses three waves of data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods Community Survey and Longitudinal Cohort Study. Results from multilevel linear models suggest that neighborhood collective efficacy supports the development of unstructured socializing with peers. Multilevel Rasch models of violent behavior indicate that, consistent with previous research, unstructured socializing is a powerful predictor of violence. Collective efficacy exerts an independent influence on violent behavior and attenuates the effect of unstructured socializing on this outcome.
Kidney stone formed around refluxedsurgical staple and removed by transureteral endoscopic manipulation

We present a case of a kidney stone that developed around a surgical staple which refluxed up to the kidney following a Bricker urinary diversion and bilateral ureteroileal anastomosis. A GIA stapler had been utilized to construct the ileal conduit. The stone was retrieved by means of flexible ureterorenoscopy through the ileal conduit. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a complication following construction of an ileal conduit with a stapling device.
Emergence of oral and locomotor activity in chronic haloperidol-treated rats following cortical N-methyl-D-aspartate stimulation.

Abstract Neuroleptic-induced orofacial movements in rats have been widely utilized as an animal model of tardive dyskinesia (TD). The present study investigated the role of the oral motor cortex in these movements by applying direct cortical stimulation in rats exposed to chronic haloperidol. Rats received depot IM injections of haloperidol decanoate or sesame oil vehicle every 3 weeks (10 rats per group). After 24 weeks of injections and a 3-week withdrawal period, bilateral guide cannulae were implanted into the primary oral motor cortex. After a 1-week recovery, bilateral microinfusions of saline vehicle followed by 1, 3, and 10 mM N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) were given and observations of oral activity, locomotion, rearing, and grooming were recorded. Haloperidol-treated rats displayed a significant emergence of NMDA stimulated oral activity (nondirected oral movements, oral tremor, audible teeth grinding, and directed oral movements). In addition, rearing and locomotion were significantly elevated in these animals. In contrast to haloperidol-treated rats, sesame oil-treated rats showed no significant emergence of any motor activity. These results suggest that chronic haloperidol administration alters primary motor cortex efferents, and that this effect may be a factor in the manifestation of chronic neuroleptic induced motor side effects, such as TD.
Intraerythrocytic plasmodial calcium metabolism.

Abstract Both prokaryotes and eukaryotes require Ca ++ for a variety of cellular functions. Intraerythrocytic plasmodia, however, exist within a cell ordinarily impermeable to external Ca ++ . Our investigations of Ca ++ homeostasis in murine Plasmodium berghei reveal that (1) infected erythrocytes contain 10 – 15 times as much Ca ++ as do uninfected red cells, (2) these large amounts of Ca ++ are located almost exclusively within the parasite, and (3) the parasite obtains at least a portion of this Ca ++ through causing increased permeability of the host cell membrane to external Ca ++ .
Characteristics and non-rhythmicity of retinal hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase activity in trout (Salmo gairdneri).

The validation and optimization of an hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT) activity assay system for trout ocular enzyme was undertaken. High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis, cross-validated with a standard thin-layer chromatographic technique verified that HIOMT activity was present in trout ocular tissue by identifying the 3H-melatonin end product. This activity was observed in the neural retina and was restricted to those fractions containing the cytosolic component. The enzyme displayed bimodal pH optima, one at pH 7.6, the other at 8.4 N-Acetylserotonin was O-methylated preferentially and a Km of 4.5 × 10−7 M was calculated for this substrate. The S-[3H]adenosylmethionine Km was 4.6 × 10−6 M. Time of incubation and enzyme concentration studies were conducted. The analysis of retinal HIOMT activity in groups of trout killed over a day-night period did not detect a rhythm in enzyme activity. Results of these investigations are discussed in terms of the evolution of melatonin synthesis and functions.
COMPUTERISED AXIAL TOMOGRAPHY FOR DIAGNOSIS OF PANCREATIC CANCER

Computerised axial tomography demonstrated the presence of a mass lesion in the pancreas in 9 (64%) of 14 patients with histologically confirmed pancreatic cancer. Since this was a retrospective analysis, the percentage of false positive and negative results using this technique is not as yet known. The technique appears accurate in detecting abnormal pancreatic masses of 10 cm in diameter or more, however, for masses less than 10 cm in diameter the yield at present is only 33%. With further technical refinement to increase resolution, the automatic computerised transverse axial scan should prove to be an invaluable procedure for the detection of pancreatic carcinoma, in designing radiation therapy ports, and in providing objective information regarding response of therapy and progression of disease.
From lords of war to leaders in society: How former Liberian warlords have used ‘old’ and ‘new’ media to self-reframe

The process of post-conflict reconstruction in Liberia involves an array of actors vying for power. Many of the key political and civic figures involved are former warlords, whose reigns of terror ...
In vivo forces on oral implants supporting a mandibular overdenture: the influence of attachment system.

This study was designed to gain insight into the influence of the attachment system on the loading conditions of oral implants supporting a mandibular overdenture on two implants. Five patients were selected and were provided with two implants in the canine area of the mandible (Branemark System). All patients received a new mandibular overdenture that could be mounted on an ovoid-shaped bar (Dolder, C&M): (a) with and (b) without bilateral extensions and (c) on ball-attachments (Nobel Biocare). Using three strain gauges attached to the outer surface of the 5.5-mm standard abutments, the axial forces and bending moments on both supporting implants could be quantified. Load registrations were made during application of 50 N on seven predetermined positions along the occlusal surface of the prosthesis and during maximal biting in maximal occlusion (clenching). The results revealed no differences in induced axial force for the various anchorage devices, unlike the differences in bending moment. Although there is a tendency for better axial load sharing with bars and better sharing of bending moments with ball attachments, these differences were not significant.
Rural ozone in the southeastern United States

Abstract Ozone measurements are reported for five rural sites in the Tennessee Valley region of the southeastern U.S. for periods ranging from 18 to 83 months during the years 1977 through 1984. Rural ozone (O 3 ) levels were found to equal or exceed urban values for the same region. The daily maximum 1-h average concentration was found to peak during the summer months, while the 24-h average concentrations were greatest in the spring. The annual cycle of daily maximum concentrations is related to the seasonal photochemical cycle. The annual cycle in 24-h average concentrations is best explained by the combined effects of the annual cycles in solar intensity and noctural O 3 depletion. There was no indication that stratospheric intrusions exhibited a significant influence on the annual O 3 cycles. Evidence was found for elevated O 3 levels during touchdown of plumes from large power plants. No long-term trend in rural O 3 concentrations, either daily maxima or means, was discernible.
Prefilter, digital filter, and postfilter - Frequency response and spurious outputs

Abstract A uniform approach is presented for the sinusoidal analysis of composite filters which consist of prefilters, digital filters and postfilters. A computer program is developed to obtain both fundamental component response data and spurious response data. The program is modularized for ease of understanding and use. A detailed example is given to illustrate the effects of prefilters and postfilters.
Integrable systems and squared eigenfunctions

We briefly review the Ablowitz-Kaup-Newell-Segur (AKNS) formalism for 1D+1D integrable systems starting with the Lax pair and continuing into integrable perturbation theory and squared eigenfunctions. We emphasize the common features of the inverse scattering transform across a wide range of known 1D+1D systems. We tailor the various steps to be the same as in treating higher-order systems. We briefly review both the direct and inverse scattering problems and then consider perturbations of the potentials and the scattering data. For the latter topic, we reformulate the original treatment of perturbations of the AKNS system such that it aligns with the common features of 1D+1D systems. We use a recent approach to derive the perturbations of the potentials due to perturbations of the scattering data in the absence of solitons. Finally, we show that recent results where the squared eigenfunctions and their adjoints were found as sums of products (not simply products) of Jost functions are determined by symmetries imposed on the potential matrix.
Portal and aortic blood sampling technique in unrestrained rats

Abstract A composite cannula has been designed to permit blood sampling from the distal aorta and portal vein in unanesthetized, unrestrained rats. The aortic and portal cannulas were constructed from polyvinylchloride (PVC) tubing drawn to a fine tip and fused to polyethylene tubing (PE 50). The portal vein was cannulated via a mesenteric vein. The abdominal aorta was cannulated non-occlusively. Both vascular cannulas were securely tied to the abdominal wall. A silicone rubber duodenal cannula was inserted into the membraneous portion of the stomach and passed into the duodenal lumen. Its end was tunnelled under the skin to the rat's back and placed under a wound clip. The utility of these cannulas was illustrated by simultaneous sampling of aortic and portal vein blood during absorption of labelled amino acids. These chronic cannulas can be used to study behavioral or physiologic parameters while selectively infusing compounds into the duodenum or portal vein. The aortic cannula can be used to measure mean arterial blood pressure, to sample blood, or to infuse the caudal part of the rat.
Stochastic modeling of the permeability of randomly generated porous media

Abstract Permeability of porous media in subsurface environments is subject to potentially large uncertainties due to the heterogeneity of natural systems. In this study, a first-order reliability method (FORM) is combined with a lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) to estimate the permeability of randomly generated porous media. The proposed procedure provides an increased ease of addressing complex pore structures by employing LBM to model fluid flow, while inheriting the computational efficiency from FORM. Macroscale-equivalent permeability can thus be estimated with significantly reduced computational efforts, while maintaining a connection to the complex microscale fluid dynamics within a pore structure environment. Implemented on several randomly generated porous media domains, the proposed method provides 13–120 times the efficiency compared to Monte Carlo methods.
Enhancement of immunoblot sensitivity by heating of hydrated filters

Immunoblots of either dot or Western type were exposed to heat before reaction with antibody. Dramatic increases in immunoblot sensitivity were seen for certain antigen-antibody pairs after heating of either dry or hydrated nitrocellulose filters at or above 100 degrees C. Heating of filters in the hydrated state improved the linearity of immunodetection and produced the highest signal-to-noise ratio. This treatment greatly increased immunoblot sensitivity with several peptide-generated antibodies, whereas decreased sensitivity was seen with antibodies against native proteins. Heating of hydrated filters after antigen immobilization is thus a potentially powerful way to increase the sensitivity of immunoblot analysis for antibodies that preferentially recognize epitopes in denatured proteins.
Novel Hydrogel Microfibers for Tissue Engineering

Cell encapsulation in hydrogels or microcapsules is one of the approaches for providing a biomimetic microenvironment to support cell survival, proliferation and functions. Microcapsules in particular have been used to improve the mass transport properties and ease of delivery through injection. More importantly, the microenvironment in hydrogels or hydrogel microcapsules can be tailored by incorporation of relevant adhesion molecules and growth factors through chemical conjugation and physical encapsulation. These functionalized hydrogels have been shown to effectively influence cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we describe the preparation and characterization of a novel hydrogel fiber by polyelectrolyte complexation. This unique fiber geometry can be useful for regeneration of cylindrical tissues and for coculture of two different cell types inside and outside the fiber membrane.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Overestimating the coronal density and its effect on the velocities derived from Lα Doppler dimming

It is shown that relatively small errors of the order of 10% in the electron densities, for example derived from polarization brightness measurements, might lead to large errors in the velocities inferred from intensity measurements of the Lα Hi λ 1216 spectral line in the inner corona. It is demonstrated that in some cases this effect can result in very high velocities close to the coronal base with subsequent small acceleration with heliocentric distance. It is also pointed out that the errors in the deduced velocities can be reduced if simultaneous observations that place constraints on the mass flux are available, and by ensuring that the mass flux computed from the derived velocities and densities is constant.
Material flammability: a combustion science perspective

Extinction limits of solid fuels are examined in two flame configurations: stagnation-point diffusion flame and spreading flame. In the first part of the paper, using a combustion model for the stagnation-point flame, the existence of critical flame temperature and critical fuel mass flux for extinction are examined as a function of the flow parameter. In the second part of the paper, the importance of flame stabilization zone in spreading flames is illustrated by an experimental example. Understanding of the events occurring in this zone is crucial for addressing the question of solid extinction limits.
Polymerizations of some diene monomers. Preparations and polymerizations of vinyl methacrylate, allyl methacrylate, N-allylacrylamide, and N-allylmethacrylamide

Vinyl methacrylate, allyl methacrylate, N-allylacrylamide, and N-allylmethacrylamide were prepared, and these monomers were polymerized in toluene by α,α-azobisisobutyronitrile catalyst. Cyclization content of poly(vinyl methacrylate) was estimated by infrared spectroscopy to be 50–60% at low conversions, but at the high conversions, due to gelation the polymers were insoluble in the usual organic solvents. Allyl methacrylate did not produce any soluble polymer, even at a low conversion, in contrast with poly-(vinyl methacrylate). Poly-N-allylacrylamide and poly-N-allylmethacrylamide were also insoluble in common solvents. It was assumed that the polymers from monomers containing the allyl group might form crosslinks as a result of allyl resonance stabilization.
Continuous, low-dose therapy with interferon-α for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related immune thrombocytopenic purpura

A patient with HIV-related immune thrombocytopenic purpura (HIV-ITP) had a rapid rise in platelet count when treated with interferon-alpha 2b, 3 million units three times weekly. There were no significant toxicities with therapy. His platelet count fell to pretreatment levels when therapy was discontinued, then increased again when therapy was reinstituted at 1.5 million units three times weekly. Interferon-alpha 2b, administered continuously at low doses, is well tolerated, effective, and possibly less immunosuppressive than other treatments for HIV-ITP.
Effect of recombinant human cytokines on porcine neutrophil function

The activity of four recombinant human cytokines on porcine neutrophils was evaluated. Porcine neutrophils were treated with varying doses of recombinant human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (rHu-TNF), interferon-gamma (rHu-IFN), interleukin-8 (rHu-IL-8), or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rHu-GM-CSF). The function of treated neutrophils was compared with that of non-treated controls in the following assays: antibody-independent neutrophil cytotoxicity (AINC), antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), iodination, Staphylococcus aureus ingestion, cytochrome C reduction, random migration, and chemotaxis. Treatment with rHu-TNF produced significant (P < 0.05) depression of neutrophil random migration (2.5, 25, and 250 ng ml−1 rHu-TNF) and iodination (250 ng ml−1) and a near significant (P = 0.08) depression in ADCC (250 ng ml−1). Treatment with 25 000 U ml−1 of rHu-IFN caused a significant increase in AINC. At lower doses of rHu-IFN, there was a trend (0.05 < P ≤ 0.08) toward depression of AINC (250 U ml−1) and ADCC (25 U ml−1) and enhancement of iodination (250 U ml−1). Treatment with 50 ng ml−1 of rHu-IL-8 caused a near significant increase (P = 0.06)M in AINC. There were no significant differences noted when porcine neutrophils were treated with rHu-GM-CSF (2.5–2500 U ml−1). No synergism was noted between rHu-TNF and rHu-IFN.
Fast MR abdominal imaging using the HASTE sequence.

B y decreasing repetition time, the number of excitations, and the phase-encoding steps, MR scanning times can be reduced. An additional method to reduce image acquisition time is to accelerate K-space coverage Ill. HalfFourier transformation allows computer reconstruction of data not directly acquired, thus reducing scanning times even further. With half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo (HASTE) MR imaging, only slightly more than half of the desired data is acquired. with the remainder reconstructed using half-Fourier transformation. All image information is obtained after a single 90#{176} excitation pulse followed by a train of refocusing pulses. HASTE MR imaging allows fast breath-hold iniaging. thus reducing breathing-related artifact, and the technique is particularly suitable where patient motion may be a degrading fttctor. Its T2 weighting allows impressive imaging of fluid and obstructed systems. With HASTE MR imaging. good-quality MR cholangiography and MR
Tests of a “free-volume” model of gas permeation through polymer membranes. I. Pure CO2, CH4, C2H4, and C3H8 in polyethylene

Permeability coefficients have been measured for CO/sub 2/, CH/sub 4/, C/sub 2/H/sub 4/, and C/sub 3/H/sub 8/ in polyethylene membranes at temperatures of 5, 20, and 35/sup 0/C and at applied gas pressures of up to 30 atm. The temperature and pressure dependence of the permeability coefficients was represented satisfactorily by an extension of Fujita's free-volume model of diffusion of small molecules in polymers. The results of the present steady-state permeability measurements provide further support for the conclusion reached from previous unsteady-state diffusivity measurements that Fujita's model is applicable to the transport of small molecules, such as CO/sub 2/, CH/sub 4/, C/sub 2/H/sub 4/, and C/sub 3/H/sub 8/, in polyethylene. It was previously thought that this model is applicable only to the transport of larger molecules, such as of organic vapors, in polymers. 21 references, 4 figures, 4 tables.
The Hawaii family study of cognitive abilities: a comment

The regressions of midchild on midparent for 15 cognitive tests in two ethnic groups have been employed by DeFrieset al. (1976) to calculate upper-bound estimates of narrow heritability. The samples from the ethnic populations are, however, differentially biased. There is a high correlation, within group and after correction for test reliability, between the spouse correlation and the estimate of heritability. The raw test scores had been corrected for age effects. The correction removed a significant component of total phenotypic variance, which may be environmental in origin.
Anomalous Solar Rotation in the Early 17th Century

The character of solar rotation has been examined for two periods in the early 17th century for which detailed sunspot drawings are available: A.D. 1625 through 1626 and 1642 through 1644. The first period occurred 20 years before the start of the Maunder sunspot minimum, 1645 through 1715; the second occurred just at its commencement. Solar rotation in the earlier period was much like that of today. In the later period, the equatorial velocity of the sun was faster by 3 to 5 percent and the differential rotation was enhanced by a factor of 3. The equatorial acceleration with declining solar activity is in the same sense as that found in recent Doppler data. It seems likely that the change in rotation of the solar surface between 1625 and 1645 was associated with the onset of the Maunder Minimum.
Materials and design issues of multilayer magneto-optical thin-film media for optical recording

The principles of magneto-optical (MO) recording and readout are reviewed and issues of thin film media design for MO disks are discussed. Essential criteria for improved media performance, and in particular, concepts of magneto-optical interactions in relation to multilayer designs for enhancing the polarization rotation in erasable magnetooptical media are considered. Examples of media design for improved performance are given. The role of sharp reflection edges such as those occurring near plasma edge resonances in metals is discussed. It is shown that rare earth hexaboride (RB 6 ) reflector layers increase the polar Kerr rotation angle of MO media. Iso-Kerr rotation contours and iso-reflectance contours are developed to determine optimizing material properties for MO media design.
Fiscal and exchange rate policies in a fix-price trade model with export rationing

Abstract Recent writings in macroeconomics [e.g. Barro-Grossman (1976) and Malinvaud (1977)] have presented models where short-run price and wage rigidities prevent instantaneous attainment of a Walrasian equilibrium. The effects of macroeconomics policies in such models where prices and wages are exogenously fixed for one reason or another, depend critically on the nature of the implied rationing of labor and output among potential demanders and suppliers in various nonmarket-clearing situations. The present paper develops a simple two-sector model of an open economy in which rationing occurs when the exportable good is in short supply. The short-run effects of fiscal and exchange rate policies on output and the trade balance are shown to vary depending on the nature of labor and output markets ‘disequilibria’. Policy-makers must, therefore, be able to assess the nature of nonmarket-clearing situations to prescribe appropriate policy measures. Naive assumptions that standard Keynesian models are appropriate may lead to policy errors.
Endotracheal intubation in horses: a study of two cuff inflation pressures, correlation with liquid aspiration, and tracheal wall damage.

Nine adult horses were anesthetized for a nonsurvival abdominal adhesion study. Horses were randomly assigned into two groups to receive endotracheal tube cuff pressures of either 80 cm H2O (Group P80) or 120 cm H2O (Group P120). After intubation (Bivona 30 mm ID), anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. Horses were ventilated 10 times per minute with a suitable inspiratory pressure to maintain Pe′CO2 in the 35–40 mm Hg (4.7–6.0 kPa) range. Cuff pressure was continuously monitored with a pressure transducer (TruWave, Baxter) calibrated to the atmospheric pressure and maintained at a constant pressure. Twenty-five millilitres of methylene blue dye in saline were instilled proximal to the cuff over 5 minutes. The horses were euthanized 123 ± 23 minutes later (mean ± SD). Immediately, the trachea was opened distal to the tip of the endotracheal tube, and the mucosa was observed for evidence of dye leaking past the cuff. The cervical trachea was resected and the lumen exposed by a ventral longitudinal incision. Biopsies (1–2 rings) were obtained at mid-cuff level and distal to the tip of the endotracheal tube, and placed in formalin for later histologic examinations (H&E stain). Methylene blue stain was not observed distal to the endotracheal tube cuff in any horse. Visual examination of the tracheal mucosa revealed hyperemic or hemorrhagic lesions at the level of cuff contact both ventrally and dorsally. Histologic changes included epithelium damage, submucosal neutrophil infiltrates, and acute submucosal hemorrhages. P80 horses had none or focal to multifocal lesions on the ventral and dorsal aspects of the rings. P120 horses had multifocal to diffuse lesions on all aspects (dorsal, ventral, and lateral). We concluded that the endotracheal tube cuff produced a seal sufficient to prevent leakage at both pressures. Tracheal damages on gross and microscopic examinations were more severe and occurred more frequently at the higher cuff pressure.
Visual Outcomes After Treatment of Pituitary Adenomas

Pituitary adenomas frequently manifest with neuro-ophthalmic symptoms and signs. The location of the pituitary gland makes involvement of both the visual pathways and the ocular motor cranial nerves likely when there is adenomatous expansion. A sudden expression of visual loss or diplopia commonly accompanies pituitary apoplexy. Several preoperative neuro-ophthalmic indicators help predict posttreatment outcomes and help determine the best intervention. Treatments themselves may also cause neuro-ophthalmic complications. The current literature and avenues of future research are reviewed.
The modal argument for incompatibilism

Van Inwagen offers a formal reconstruction of this argument, one which closely resembles an argument which Carl Ginet has used in defence of incompatibilism.2 The power of this argument derives from the fact that its premises are defended by claims that the compatibilist must accept that we cannot change either the laws or the past. Although the argument does not rest on any obvious fallacy, I will argue that it is not valid. But first, a few remarks on what the argument is about. Incompatibilism is normally understood as the thesis that freedom is not compatible with determinism, but the Ginet/van Inwagen argument doesn't say anything about freedom. The conclusion of the argument is that if determinism is true, then no agent can ever falsify any true proposition. The propositions in question have the form 'Agent S does x time t'. The argument is supposed to show that if determinism is true, no agent can ever falsify any true proposition about what she does at a given time. In plain English, the claim is that no causally determined agent can ever do otherwise. What does being able to do otherwise have to do with freedom? It is usually taken for granted that being able to do otherwise is at least a
Thermoelasticity of initially stressed bodies. Asymptotic equipartition of energies

The purpose of this work is to study the asymptotic partition of total energy for the solutions of the mixed initial boundary value problem within the context of the thermoelasticity of initially stressed bodies.
Properties and solution techniques for a mixed type boundary integral equation arising in creeping flow problems

Abstract We consider the properties of a creeping flow, boundary integral operator which is the sum of a single layer potential arising from a surface density, and two double layer potentials, one each for the tangential and normal components of the same density with different coefficient weights. Specific cases of this operator are encountered quite frequently in the creeping flow literature, especially in the solution of problems with slip at an interface. We examine, in particular, the eigenspectrum of this mixed-type operator. As expected, when the coefficient of either the tangential or normal component of the double layer term is either much smaller in magnitude than unity or identically equal to zero, the solution of this operator for the unknown density is rendered ill-posed, and thus, solution with the Richardson iteration technique requires a prohibitively large number of iterations. However, a surprising result is that the solution via inversion (e.g. Gaussian elimination, LU decomposition, etc.), for the component of the density whose coefficient in the double layer term of the operator is non-zero, can actually be a well-posed problem. We verify our theoretical developments by considering a spherical viscous drop with a slipping interface suspended in a viscous liquid undergoing a uniaxial extensional flow, the interfacial slip being proportional to the local tangential stress. In this case, the operator is equivalent to the mixed type operator with the normal coefficient set to zero. We demonstrate that the solution of this operator for the tangential stress is a well-posed problem, and we delineate the parametric space for a stable solution scheme.