cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Imaging cellulose fibre interfaces with fluorescence microscopy and resonance energy transfer

Abstract Future developments in cellulosic materials are predicated by the need to understand the fundamental interactions that occur at cellulose fibre interfaces. These interfaces strongly influence the material properties of fibre networks and fibre reinforced composites. This study takes advantage of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescence microscopy to image cellulose interfaces. Steady-state epi-fluorescence microscopy suggests that energy transfer from coumarin dyed fibres to fluorescein dyed fibres is occurring at the fibre–fibre interface. The FRET response for natural spruce fibre interfaces is distinctly different from that observed in synthetic viscose fibres. This approach constitutes a novel methodology for the characterization of soft material interfaces on the molecular scale, and represents a major opportunity for advancing the understanding of fibrous network structures.
Technology and Convergence

The empirical convergence literature envisages a world in which the presence or lack of convergence is a function of capital accumulation. This focus ignores a long tradition among economic historians and growth theorists which emphasizes technology and the potential for technology transfer. The authors suggest here that this neglect is an important oversight: simple models which incorporate technology transfer provide a richer framework for thinking about convergence. Empirically, differences in technologies across countries and sectors appear to match differences in labor productivity and to exhibit interesting changes over time. Copyright 1996 by Royal Economic Society.
Saving medicare through patient-centered changes - The case of injectables

Medicare covers the cost of injectable drugs only when they're administered in a hospital or physician's office, but considerations of convenience, cost, and quality all argue for encouraging patients to participate in their own care by allowing self-administration.
Nanostructured calcium phosphates for biomedical applications: novel synthesis and characterization.

Abstract Materials play a key role in several biomedical applications, and it is imperative that both the materials and biological aspects are clearly understood for attaining a successful biological outcome. This paper illustrates our approach to implement calcium phosphates as gene delivery agents. Calcium phosphates (CaP) belong to the family of biocompatible apatites and there are several CaP phases, the most ubiquitous being hydroxyapatite (HAp, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2. Other CaP structures include brushite (B, CaHPO4 · 2H2O) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP, Ca3(PO4)2). Several low and high temperature approaches have been reported for synthesizing HAp and brushite, while TCP is primarily synthesized using high temperature methods. Novel low temperature chemical methods have been developed by us to synthesize nanostructured HAp, brushite and TCP phases. The new low temperature approach results in the formation of stoichiometric and nanosized HAp under physiological conditions. Moreover, the synthesis methods were designed to be biocompatible with biological systems such as cells, DNA and proteins so that the CaP structures can be studied for gene delivery. The use of HAp type CaP phases for gene delivery is well known but to our knowledge, other forms of CaP have not been studied for gene delivery due to the lack of a biocompatible synthesis method. In addition to the biocompatible synthesis of CaP structures, we have also performed ion substitution that would provide us the appropriate tools to study the DNA-to-particle interactions and assess how these ionic substitutions would affect the level of DNA uptake by the cell and then its release to the cell nucleus. Substitution of calcium by 14% magnesium results in the formation of crystalline (∼20 μm) brushite platelets that remains stable at pH 7.5. Further substitution results in unique nanostructured spherical morphologies of brushite from which rosette shaped high specific surface area (∼200 m2/g) nanocrystals (∼80 nm) of β-TCMP phase can be grown. The novelty lies in the formation of stable phases of HAp, brushite and β-TCMP under physiological conditions making them potential candidates for use as carriers for non-viral gene delivery or more generally in biological systems. The resultant nanocrystalline phosphates have been characterized for their structure, morphology, thermal stability, and composition. Results of the in vitro transfection are also described.
Preoperative versus postoperative extracorporeal life support in neonatal cardiac patients

The aim of this study is to document our experience with the use of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in the neonatal cardiac patient, to detect differences in the morbidity and mortality between patients who required ECLS preoperatively and those who required ECLS postoperatively, and to determine the long-term effects of these morbidities. A chart review was undertaken of all neonatal cardiac patients who required ECLS between May 1985 and July 1994 at Kosair Children's Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky. Twenty-three neonatal cardiac patients had received preoperative or postoperative ECLS with an overall survival rate of 35%. Our preoperative and postoperative patients had similar demographics, diagnoses, decannulation rates and survival rates. However, patients receiving postoperative ECLS more frequently required more than two inotropes (p < 0.001), had an increased incidence of renal failure (p < 0.02), had more central nervous system abnormalities on brain imaging studies (p < 0.004), and had a longer hospital stay (p < 0.05). Follow-up testing of survivors yielded normal Bayley Scale of Infant Development (BSID) scores in half of the patients. Survival in the two groups was similar, but a significant difference in morbidity was found. Except for severe intracranial abnormalities, the morbidity was shown to be reversible on follow-up examination. We recommend the continued use of ECLS for neonatal cardiac patients who require preoperative or postoperative support even when severe renal failure ensues or minor abnormalities are detected on brain imaging studies.
Torque Generation Mechanism of ATP Synthase and Other Rotary Motors

Ion driven rotary motors, including F0-ATP synthase (F0) and the bacterial flagellar motor, convert energy from ion translocation into torque and rotary motion. Here we propose a mechanism whereby electric fields emanating from channels in the stator(s) create forces acting on ion binding sites in the rotor, driving it to rotate. The model predicts a scaling law relating torque to ion motive force and number of stators, consistent with experiment. The rotor of F0 drives the gamma-subunit to rotate within the ATP-producing complex (F1), working against an opposing torque that rises and falls periodically with angular position. Drawing an analogy with the washboard potential of the superconducting Josephson junction, we compute ATP production rate vs. ion motive force, finding excellent quantitative agreement with experiment and accounting for the crossover from ATP production to consumption. Plausible mechanisms for reversing the direction of bacterial flagellar rotation become self-evident in the model. (Supported by NIH R21CA133153, TcSUH, Welch (E-1221), and THECB-ARP.)
1385 CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW (CBF) AUTOREGULATION IN THE NEWBORN LAMB WITH HYPOVOLEMIC HYPOTENSION WITHOUT AN ASSOCIATED ANEMIA

We have shown that the newborn lamb maintains CBF when mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) is lowered to 30 mmHg by hemorrhage. Independent measurements of both hematocrit (HCT) and arterial O2 content [O2]a fel1 nearly 40%. Although O2 delivery (O2D) decreased, O2 consumption (MVO2) was maintained. Because HCT and [O2]a are determiners of CBF, we attempted to control those variables in 6 anesthetized lambs (< 7 days old). HCT was maintained within physiological limits by infusing autologous packed RBC's. CBF was measured with radioactive microspheres. MAP was reduced (with a pressurized reservoir connected to a catheter in the abdominal aorta) from control to 50, 40 & 30 mmHg. CBF and O2D were maintained and MVO2 increased in the newborn lamb model of hypotension without anemia. Since the HCT and [O2]a were well controlled, this study documents that the newborn lamb can autoregulate CBF over the range of MAP of 96-28 mmHg. If O2D is maintained (non-anemia), MVO2 increases. If O2 demand is as great in anemic-hypotensive newborns; the inability of O2D to adequately supply this demand may result in ischemia.
Microscopic fragmentation model for galactic cosmic ray studies

We describe theoretical considerations for developing models of heavy ion fragmentation appropriate for galactic cosmic ray studies. Previous models have been based on parametric fits to limited experimental data or models that ignored some aspects of the reaction dynamics, including nuclear cluster effects. The abrasion-ablation description of the fragmentation process is re-formulated to describe the excitation spectrum of pre-fragment nuclei. The resulting spectrum is shown to be related to the many-body response of the nuclear ground-state and excited states, and an approach to simplify this function is discussed. An analytic solution to the nuclear de-excitation process is described which includes a realistic level spectrum of the GCR nuclei (A < 60). Comparisons are made to experiments for fragmentation of 24Mg, 32S, and 56Fe beams on several targets and results are discussed.
Immunonutrition: fact, fantasy, and future.

Immunonutrients are molecular compounds that, while being dietary components, also influence immunologic response mechanisms. Substances such as glutamine, u-3 fatty acids, arginine, and/or ribonucleic acid have been added to standard nutritional support solutions, and the use of these formulations is known as "immunonutrition." A number of randomized, controlled trials have demonstrated that recipients of immunonutrition have better outcomes than control subjects receiving standard nutritional support. However, it is possible that standard parenteral or enteral nutrition is actually harmful. We currently lack data from randomized trials showing the efficacy of immunonutrition compared with no nutritional support. Even if such information were forthcoming, these immunonutrients may simply be acting as pharmacologic agents. Finally, because each of these nutritive agents may either up-or downregulate the immune response, the effects may be disease-state specific.
Association of methionine requirement with methyl mercury resistant mutants of yeast.

IT has been known for several years that strains resistant to mercury can be obtained in several bacterial species1–4. Soon after the correlation between resistance to antibiotics and to mercury was recognised2,5, it was established that genetic elements conferring resistance to antibiotics, mercury and other heavy metals in Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium6 and Staphylococcus aureus7,8 reside on extrachromosomal resistance transfer factors or plasmids. Among fungi, mercury resistant strains of Botrytis cinerea9, Penicillium notatum, Sclerotinia fructicola, Stemphylium sarcinaeforme10, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae11,12 have been reported. In most cases1,3,9–12, this was accomplished by ‘training’ the normal strains for growth on media supplemented with successively increasing concentrations of mercury compounds, and in some cases10 the resistance was lost when subcultured on mercury-free media. It is noteworthy that in none of the mercury-adapted strains of fungi has the genetic basis of resistance been determined. In this report we describe a method of isolation and characterisation of methyl mercury resistant mutants of S. cerevisiae. This study was undertaken with the view that the examination of physiological changes associated with genetically defined resistant mutants will be useful in studying the mechanisms of cellular detoxification of organic mercurials.
The Economics of the Diaspora Revisited

This chapter examines the “Diaspora Hypothesis” that the high level of educational attainment of American Jews and diaspora Palestinian Arabs is due to the greater portability (transferability across countries) of human capital than of non-human capital assets. The relevance for this book is the discussion of the hypothesis for Jews. If Jews overinvested in schooling, they would have both a higher level of schooling and a lower rate of return from schooling. Yet, data for the United States indicate that Jews have both a higher level of schooling and a higher rate of return. This suggests that their higher level of schooling may be a consequence of schooling being more profitable for them.
Gender and dietary fat affect α‐tocopherol status in F344/N rats

For four weeks, groups of eight male and eight female F344/N rats were fed diets containing 15.5, 20, 30 or 40% of energy (en%) as fat. The fat was composed of corn oil and beef tallow with 9 en% from linoleate in all diets. Females had greater mean hepatic α-tocopherol levels, whereas males had greater plasma α-tocopherol and cholesterol concentrations. In males, the plasma ratio of α-tocopherol/cholesterol was significantly greater than in females (P<0.05). Plasma α-tocopherol increased with increasing en% fat (r=0.51,P<0.001) in both sexes, but dietary fat did not alter hepatic α-tocopherol levels. These results suggest that plasma α-tocopherol may serve as a biomarker of total dietary fat intake and that in F344/N rats gender differences affect α-tocopherol and cholesterol status.
An examination of hydrogen exchange in CH+5 by the CNDO method

Abstract An energy surface study for the CH + 5 ion by the CNDO/2 method reveals there may be pathways for racemization of configuration of alkanes, out of electrophilic protonation complexes. C S symmetry ions, which are substantially more favorable than pathways for Walden inversion.
Haemodynamic effects of mental stress during cardiac arrest simulation testing on advanced life support courses

Abstract We investigated the haemodynamic response to the mental stress induced by being evaluated as a team leader in simulated advanced life support (ALS) scenarios. Methods: Healthcare providers participating as candidates to ALS courses were monitored while acting as team leaders in a cardiac arrest testing scenario (CASTest). Heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured before, during and after the CASTest. The correlation between the haemodynamic responses and sex, age, body mass index (BMI) and marks on course multiple choice questions (MCQs) were studied using multiple linear regression. Results: Eighty-eight subjects (46 women, 42 men, mean age 34.9 ± 6.8 years) were enrolled. Mean HR, SBP and DBP increased significantly during the CASTest and reached a peak after a phase of the scenario which included an unsuccessful defibrillation. Ten minutes after the CASTest, HR, SBP and DBP were still significantly higher than their respective baseline values. A significant positive correlation was found between the DBP and SBP response during the scenario and the BMI, and between the DBP response and the candidates’ age. The haemodynamic stress response was neither correlated with the candidates’ marks in the course MCQ nor with their instructor potential (IP). Conclusion: During the testing scenario the ALS candidates showed a significant haemodynamic response to mental stress, which depended mainly on their age and BMI rather than on their knowledge and skills.
The machinery of macroautophagy

Autophagy is a primarily degradative pathway that takes place in all eukaryotic cells. It is used for recycling cytoplasm to generate macromolecular building blocks and energy under stress conditions, to remove superfluous and damaged organelles to adapt to changing nutrient conditions and to maintain cellular homeostasis. In addition, autophagy plays a critical role in cytoprotection by preventing the accumulation of toxic proteins and through its action in various aspects of immunity including the elimination of invasive microbes and its participation in antigen presentation. The most prevalent form of autophagy is macroautophagy, and during this process, the cell forms a double-membrane sequestering compartment termed the phagophore, which matures into an autophagosome. Following delivery to the vacuole or lysosome, the cargo is degraded and the resulting macromolecules are released back into the cytosol for reuse. The past two decades have resulted in a tremendous increase with regard to the molecular studies of autophagy being carried out in yeast and other eukaryotes. Part of the surge in interest in this topic is due to the connection of autophagy with a wide range of human pathophysiologies including cancer, myopathies, diabetes and neurodegenerative disease. However, there are still many aspects of autophagy that remain unclear, including the process of phagophore formation, the regulatory mechanisms that control its induction and the function of most of the autophagy-related proteins. In this review, we focus on macroautophagy, briefly describing the discovery of this process in mammalian cells, discussing the current views concerning the donor membrane that forms the phagophore, and characterizing the autophagy machinery including the available structural information.
Mechanosensory transduction of vagal and baroreceptor afferents revealed by study of isolated nodose neurons in culture.

Abstract Changes in arterial pressure and blood volume are sensed by baroreceptor and vagal afferent nerves innervating aorta and heart with soma in nodose ganglia. The inability to measure membrane potential at the nerve terminals has limited our understanding of mechanosensory transduction. Goals of the present study were to: (1) Characterize membrane potential and action potential responses to mechanical stimulation of isolated nodose sensory neurons in culture; and (2) Determine whether the degenerin/epithelial sodium channel (DEG/ENaC) blocker amiloride selectively blocks mechanically induced depolarization without suppressing membrane excitability. Membrane potential of isolated rat nodose neurons was measured with sharp microelectrodes. Mechanical stimulation with buffer ejected from a micropipette (5, 10, 20 psi) depolarized 6 of 10 nodose neurons (60%) in an intensity-dependent manner. The depolarization evoked action potentials in 4 of the 6 neurons. Amiloride (1 μM) essentially abolished mechanically induced depolarization (15±4 mV during control vs. 1±2 mV during amiloride with 20-psi stimulation, n =6) and action potential discharge. In contrast, amiloride did not inhibit the frequency of action potential discharge in response to depolarizing current injection ( n =6). In summary, mechanical stimulation depolarizes and triggers action potentials in a subpopulation of nodose sensory neurons in culture. The DEG/ENaC blocker amiloride at a concentration of 1 μM inhibits responses to mechanical stimulation without suppressing membrane excitability. The results support the hypothesis that DEG/ENaC subunits are components of mechanosensitive ion channels on vagal afferent and baroreceptor neurons.
Transketolase reaction under credible prebiotic conditions

A transketolase reaction was catalyzed by cyanide ion under prebiotic conditions instead of its modern catalyst, thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP). Cyanide ion converted fructose plus glyceraldehyde to erythrose plus xylulose, the same products as are formed in modern biochemistry (but without the phosphate groups on the sugars). Cyanide was actually a better catalyst than was TPP in simple solution, where there is a negligible concentration of the C-2 anion of TPP, but of course not with an enzyme in modern biology. The cyanide ion was probably not toxic on prebiotic earth, but only when the oxygen atmosphere developed and iron porphyrin species were needed, which cyanide poisons. Thus, catalyses by TPP that are so important in modern biochemistry in the Calvin cycle for photosynthesis and the gluconic acid pathway for glucose oxidation, among other processes, were probably initially performed instead by cyanide ion until its toxicity with metalloproteins became a problem and primitive enzymes were present to work with TPP, or most likely its primitive precursors.
A preliminary study on the effects of jejunocaecostomy in horses

Summary Ileal bypass by re-section and jejunocaecostomy is a commonly performed surgery in horses, but has a reportedly lower success rate than other small intestinal surgeries. Lower success rates and chronic problems with diarrhoea, weight loss, protein, sugar and fat malabsorption, and Ca/P imbalance occur in man. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in bodyweight, nutrient digestion and absorption, and serum and urine composition in horses before and 3, 12 and 27 weeks after ileal resection and side-to-side jejunocaecostomy. Four adult, healthy horses had a baseline CBC; serum creatinine, cholesterol, Na, K, Cl, Mg, Ca, P; digestion trial; xylose and fat absorption test; and serum total bile acid test. Digestion of dry matter, crude protein, total plant cell wall, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin; and urinary fractional excretions of Na, K, Cl, P and Ca were calculated. A one-way analysis of variance compared baseline values to those obtained after caeliotomy and jejunocaecostomy (P<0.05). Results include a significant decrease in serum calcium and total protein 27 weeks after surgery and a significant increase in FENa, FECa, and faecal metabolic organic matter 27 weeks after surgery. Bodyweight decreased significantly 3 weeks after surgery, but increased to greater than baseline values at 12 and 27 weeks after surgery. Vitamin A absorption curves were normal (sigmoid) before surgery and linear at all times after surgery. Serum cholesterol was significantly lower 27 weeks after surgery and a trend (P<0.1) for a lower serum cholesterol was observed 3 weeks after surgery. No significant differences were apparent in serum electrolytes, faecal water, protein or fibre digestibility, xylose absorption or serum bile acid measurements. In summary, ileal bypass affected the horses minimally, but derangements of Ca metabolism, fat (fat soluble vitamin) absorption and microbial flora need further study.
From TRB and LP Plate to Variable Gauge Rolling: Technology, Theory, Simulation and Experiment

Tailor Rolled Blank (TRB) and Longitudinal Profile plate (LP plate) are both new products for materials saving. TRB produced by cold rolling can partially substitute for Tailor Welded Blank (TWB) achieving lightweight in vehicles. LP plate produced by hot rolling can be utilized in shipbuilding, bridge manufacturing and constructions, realizing structures lightweight. This paper stressed the common point of TRB and LP plate: Variable Gauge Rolling (VGR). Basic equations of VGR were deduced, a velocity relationship which assures the shape and dimension of transition region was provided, a FEM simulation of VGR was performed, VGR experiments were carried out and TRB samples with a thickness ratio 1:2 were obtained. All above achievements have established a foundation for VGR’s industrial application.
Mechanisms of glucocorticosteroid activity in patients with the preleukemic syndrome (hemopoietic dysplasia).

Abstract We have analyzed mechanisms of glucocorticosteroid activity in patients with the preleukemic syndrome by culturing in agar and methylcellulose bone marrow cells from 5 glucocorticosteroid-responsive patients with the preleukemic syndrome. We have found that methylprednisolone and cortisol are equally effective in enhancing colony growth in these patients, that enhancement occurs in either methylcellulose or agar matrix and in RPMI 1640, McCoy's 5a, and alpha medium. In 4 patients, glucocorticosteroids inhibited the activity of T-lymphocyte inhibitors of granulopoiesis in vitro. In one patient, these agents stimulated the immediate proliferation of CFU-C and in the presence of LCM enhanced CFU-C survival in suspension culture. These effects were blocked by progesterone and not due to enhancement of CSA production or inhibition of inhibitory T-cell function. Our results document the involvement of cortisol sensitive T-lymphocytes in the suppression of granulopoiesis in a small number of patients with the preleukemic syndrome and indicate that the mechanisms of glucocorticosteroid responses among patients with this syndrome are heterogeneous.
Deprotonation and oligomerization in photo-, radiolytically, and electrochemically induced redox reactions in hydrophobic alkylalkylimidazolium ionic liquids.

Radical chemistry initiated by one-electron reduction of 1-methyl-3-alkylimidazolium cations in the corresponding ionic liquids (ILs) is examined. The reaction scheme is examined in light of the recent experimental data on photo-, radiation-, and electrochemically induced degradation of the practically important hydrophobic alkylimidazolium ILs. It is suggested that the primary species leading to the formation of the oligomers and acidification of the IL is a σσ* dimer radical cation that loses a proton, yielding a neutral radical whose subsequent reactions produce C(2)−C(2) linked oligomers, both neutral and charged. The neutral oligomers (up to the tetramer) account for the features observed in the NMR spectra of cathodic liquid generated in electrolytic breakdown of the IL solvent. In photolysis and radiolysis, these neutral species and/or their radical precursors are oxidized by radical (ions) derived from the counteranions, and only charged dimers are observed. The dication dimers account for the fea...
Visual target tracking in the presence of unknown observer motion

Much attention has been given to the visual tracking problem due to its obvious uses in military surveillance. However, visual tracking is complicated by the presence of motion of the observer in addition to the target motion, especially when the image changes caused by the observer motion are large compared to those caused by the target motion. Techniques for estimating the motion of the observer based on image registration techniques and Kalman filtering are presented and simulated. With the effects of the observer motion removed, an additional phase is implemented to track individual targets. This tracking method is demonstrated on an image stream from a buoy-mounted or periscope-mounted camera, where large inter-frame displacements are present due to the wave action on the camera. This system has been shown to be effective at tracking and predicting the global position of a planar vehicle (boat) being observed from a single, out-of-plane camera. Finally, the tracking system has been extended to a multi-target scenario.
Modulation of Endocrine Function by Sleep-Wake Homeostasis and Circadian Rhythmicity

Sleep exerts modulatory effects on components of the endocrine system; depending on the endocrine axis hormonal secretion may be stimulated or inhibited during sleep. Reciprocally, several hormones have effects on sleep architecture. The sleep-wake cycle is under dual control of a centrally generated endogenous circadian signal and of a homeostatic mechanism relating sleep duration and intensity to the duration of prior wakefulness. This dual control affects the temporal organization of hormonal release. The physiological response of hormonal secretions to sleep is disturbed during sleep deprivation and when sleep is shallow and/or fragmented. Part of the hormonal and metabolic changes observed in older adults could be secondary to the decreases in sleep duration and quality that characterize aging.
Trunk and lower extremity segment kinematics and their relationship to pain following movement instruction during a single-leg squat in females with dynamic knee valgus and patellofemoral pain.

Abstract Objectives To understand how instructing females with patellofemoral pain to correct dynamic knee valgus affects pelvis, femur, tibia and trunk segment kinematics. To determine if pain reduction in the corrected condition was associated with improved segment kinematics. Design Cross-sectional. Methods A 3D-motion capture system was used to collect multi-joint kinematics on 20 females with dynamic knee valgus and patellofemoral pain during a single-leg squat in two conditions: usual movement pattern, and corrected dynamic knee valgus. During each condition pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. Pelvis, femur, tibia and trunk kinematics in the frontal and transverse planes were compared between conditions using a paired T -test. Pearson correlation coefficients were generated between visual analog scale score and the kinematic variables in the corrected condition. Results In the corrected condition subjects had increased lateral flexion of the pelvis toward the weight-bearing limb ( p p =0.001) and internal rotation ( p =0.01). A trend toward decreased tibial internal rotation ( p =0.057) and increased trunk lateral flexion toward the weight-bearing limb ( p =0.055) was also found. Lower pain levels were associated with less femoral internal rotation ( p =0.04) and greater trunk lateral flexion toward the weight-bearing limb ( p =0.055). Conclusions Decreased hip adduction after instruction was comprised of motion at both the pelvis and femur. Decreased pain levels were associated with lower extremity segment kinematics moving in the direction opposite to dynamic knee valgus. These results increase our understanding of correction strategies used by females with patellofemoral pain and provide insight for rehabilitation.
Effectiveness of Sotalol as First-Line Therapy for Fetal Supraventricular Tachyarrhythmias

Fetal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and atrial flutter (AF) can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Digoxin is often used as first-line therapy but can be ineffective and is poorly transferred to the fetus in the presence of fetal hydrops. As an alternative to digoxin monotherapy, we have been using sotalol at presentation in fetuses with SVT or AF with, or at risk of, developing hydrops to attempt to achieve more rapid control of the arrhythmia. The present study was a retrospective review of the clinical, echocardiographic, and electrocardiographic data from all pregnancies with fetal tachycardia diagnosed and managed at a single center from 2004 to 2008. Of 29 affected pregnancies, 21 (16 SVT and 5 AF) were treated with sotalol at presentation, with or without concurrent administration of digoxin. Of the 21, 11 (6 SVT and 5 AF) had resolution of the tachycardia within 5 days (median 1). Six others showed some response (less frequent tachycardia, rate slowing, resolution of hydrops) without complete conversion. In 1 fetus with a slow response, the mother chose pregnancy termination. The 5 survivors with a slow response were all difficult to treat postnatally, including 1 requiring radiofrequency ablation as a neonate. One fetus developed blocked atrial extrasystoles after 1 dose of sotalol and was prematurely delivered for fetal bradycardia. Three grossly hydropic fetuses with SVT showed no response and died within 1 to 3 days of treatment. In conclusion, transplacental sotalol, alone or combined with digoxin, is effective for the treatment of fetal SVT and AF, with an 85% complete or partial response rate in our series.
Pineal hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase (HIOMT) in the chicken: Effect of diurnal lighting and substrate concentration☆

Abstract Pineal hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase was measured in White-Leghorn cockerels exposed to a diurnal lighting cycle. The effect of varying substrate concentrations was also determined, and optimal concentrations for both N-acetylserotonin and 5-hydroxytryptamine were observed. The apparent Km for NAS was approximately 7000 times lower than that for 5HT. When HIOMT activity is measured at different times of day, a diurnal rhythm is detected with maximum activity during the dark phase of the photoperiod.
The secure base script and the task of caring for elderly parents: implications for attachment theory and clinical practice

This study explores links between adults' attachment representations and the task of caring for elderly parents with dementia. Participants were 87 adults serving as primary caregivers of a parent or parent-in-law with dementia. Waters and Waters' ( 2006 ) Attachment Script Assessment was adapted to assess script-like attachment representation in the context of caring for their elderly parent. The quality of adult-elderly parent interactions was assessed using the Level of Expressed Emotions Scale (Cole & Kazarian, 1988 ) and self-report measures of caregivers' perception of caregiving as difficult. Caregivers' secure base script knowledge predicted lower levels of negative expressed emotion. This effect was moderated by the extent to which participants experienced caring for elderly parents as difficult. Attachment representations played a greater role in caregiving when caregiving tasks were perceived as more difficult. These results support the hypothesis that attachment representations influence the quality of care that adults provide their elderly parents. Clinical implications are discussed.
Effects on left ventricular function of pindolol added to verapamil in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Abstract The aim of the study was to assess the effect of adding pindolol to previously used verapamil monotherapy on left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function in 20 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Patients were initially treated with verapamil in maximal well-tolerated doses for 16 ± 14 months; pindolol, 5 mg twice daily, was added. In a Doppler echocardiographic study all patients had altered LV diastolic filling despite verapamil therapy. The control examination, which consisted of echocardiographic study and New York Heart Association functional status classification, was performed after 20 days and repeated after ≥6 months of follow-up. Combined pindolol and verapamil therapy caused an increase in LV diastolic filling manifested by beneficial changes of transmitral flow parameters. Also, inhibition of hypercontractile LV function expressed by reduction of LV outflow tract pressure gradient and ejection fraction was observed. New York Heart Association functional class was reduced in 13 patients. The magnitude and distribution of LV myocardial hypertrophy did not change significantly. It is concluded that pindolol and verapamil combined therapy is superior to verapamil monotherapy because off improved LV diastolic function (probably due to partial agonist activity of pindolol) and reduced hypercontractile function in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Autoradiography of λ binding sites in rat brain

In vitro receptor autoradiography was used to determine the localization of binding sites with high selectivity for 4,5-epoxymorphinans (lambda sites) in rat brain slices. [3H]Naloxone was used both to label a combination of mu and lambda sites (ligand alone) and to selectively label lambda sites (ligand plus 300 nM diprenorphine added to saturate mu, delta and kappa sites), using incubation conditions optimized for binding to lambda sites. Computerized densitometric analysis confirmed the ligand specificity profile and ionic sensitivity seen for lambda sites in previous homogenate studied. The proportion of mu and lambda sites labeled by [3H]naloxone varied among different brain regions examined. The labeling in the cerebellum, the accessory olfactory bulb and the mossy fiber path of the hippocampus was almost entirely lambda in nature under the conditions employed. A number of regions showed varying proportions of lambda and mu sites, including the cortex, the amygdala, substantia gelatinosa and several thalamic nuclei. Regions labeled by [3H]naloxone containing little or no lambda binding included the striatal patches, the habenula, the substantia nigra and the inferior colliculus. Identification of brain regions with unique lambda site content may facilitate the search for its potential biological function.
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Its Early Effect on Blood Pressure

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) surgery is known to have a significant effect on obesity-related comorbidities such as hypertension curing it in some (50–70%) while improving control in others. Our aim was to observe the changes in blood pressure (BP) in a cohort of 100 patients followed prospectively for 1 year after LRYGB. BP measurements were recorded prospectively in 100 consecutive patients preoperatively and then postoperatively at weeks 1, 5, 9, and months 6 and 12. In order to reduce bias, three BP measurements were made by the same nurse at each office visit and the mean recorded. Pre- and postoperative usage of antihypertensive medication was also noted. Eighty-nine women and 11 men underwent LRYGB and their BP monitored for 1 year. There was an 85% follow-up rate with mean % excess body weight loss of 60. Reductions in systolic (9 mmHg) and diastolic (7 mmHg) BP measurements were seen as early as week 1 postoperatively and maintained for the duration of the observation period (P < 0.05). Furthermore, postoperative usage of antihypertensive medication is reduced to a third of preoperative use. LRYGB is associated with an early reduction in BP and antihypertensive medication usage which is maintained at 1 year after surgery. This early impact on blood pressure occurs before any significant weight loss is achieved thereby suggesting a hormonal mechanism that may be involved for the changes observed.
Dobutamine and hydralazine: Comparative influences of positive inotropy and vasodilation on coronary blood flow and myocardial energetics in nonischemic congestive heart failure

Coronary blood flow and myocardial energetics were assessed after the administration of a parenteral inotrope (dobutamine hydrochloride) and an oral vasodilator agent (hydralazine) in 10 patients with nonischemic congestive heart failure. Dobutamine (5 μg/kg per min) and hydralazine (1 mg/kg) when group-matched elicited an identical increase in cardiac index and stroke volume index. Both agents augmented coronary blood flow while reducing coronary vascular resistance. Both forms of therapy elicited a significant increase in myocardial oxygen consumption. Dobutamine, demonstrating a balanced effect on the coronary circulation, induced a proportional increase in coronary blood flow and myocardial oxygen consumption, with the arterial-venous oxygen difference across the coronary vascular bed remaining unchanged. Hydralazine enhanced the myocardial oxygen supply versus demand ratio; despite a significant increase in myocardial oxygen consumption, the arterial-venous oxygen difference and the myocardial extraction ratio diminished. Both forms of therapy enhanced cardiac performance without inducing any electrocardiographic or clinical evidence of ischemia. Dobutamine, a positive inotropic agent, elicited a balanced effect on the coronary circulation while hydralazine, a vasodilator agent, induced a greater increase in coronary flow than in myocardial oxygen demand.
Global identification of new substrates for the yeast endoribonuclease, RNase mitochondrial RNA processing (MRP).

RNase mitochondrial RNA processing (MRP) is an essential, evolutionarily conserved endoribonuclease composed of 10 different protein subunits and a single RNA. RNase MRP has established roles in multiple pathways including ribosome biogenesis, cell cycle regulation, and mitochondrial DNA replication. Although each of these functions is important to cell growth, additional functions may exist given the essential nature of the complex. To identify novel RNase MRP substrates, we utilized RNA immunoprecipitation and microarray chip analysis to identify RNA that physically associates with RNase MRP. We identified several new potential substrates for RNase MRP including a cell cycle-regulated transcript, CTS1; the yeast homolog of the mammalian p27Kip1, SIC1; and the U2 RNA component of the spliceosome. In addition, we found RNase MRP to be involved in the regulation of the Ty1 transposon RNA. These results reinforce and broaden the role of RNase MRP in cell cycle regulation and help to identify new roles of this endoribonuclease.
Fractional quantum Hall states at 1 3 and 5 2 filling: Density-matrix renormalization group calculations

In this paper, the density-matrix renormalization group method is employed to investigate the fractional quantum Hall effect at filling fractions $\ensuremath{\nu}=1/3$ and $5/2$. We first present benchmark results at both filling fractions for large system sizes to show the accuracy as well as the capability of the numerical algorithm. Furthermore, we show that by keeping a large number of basis states, one can also obtain an accurate entanglement spectrum at $\ensuremath{\nu}=5/2$ for large systems with electron numbers up to ${N}_{e}=34$, much larger than systems previously studied. Based on a finite-size scaling analysis, we demonstrate that the entanglement gap defined by Li and Haldane [Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 010504 (2008)] is finite in the thermodynamic limit, which characterizes the topological order of the fractional quantum Hall effect state.
Stature and malignant tumors of bone in childhood and adolescence.

Children from birth to 18 years of age who were admitted to the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Boston with osteogenic sarcoma were found to be significantly taller at the time of diagnosis than a hospital-control group of children with non-osseous cancers. Children with Ewing's sarcoma were also significantly taller than controls, but to a lesser degree than those with osteogenic sarcoma. These findings are consistent with the known high risk of canine bone sarcoma among larger breeds of dogs, and the demographic observations on human bone cancer which suggest that the origin of at least some of these tumors is a function of skeletal growth rates during childhood and adolescence.
On the Roentgen‐anatomical Appearance of Congenital Pyloric Stenosis during and after the Manifest Stage of the Disease

Summary. Pyloric stenosis in infants has a typical roentgen-anatomical appearence. In the manifest stage the canalis egestorius is contracted to a narrow, streak-like lumen, 2—3 cm in length. The stomach shows stenosal peristalsis, which does not pass beyond the oral limit of the constriction. The duodenal cap is normal in shape and size. The opening time of the stomach is prolonged up to 2 hours (Stage I). After the cessation of the manifest symptoms up to 4 years the opening time is normal and the lumen of the canalis egestorius is somewhat wider with longitudinal rugae Stage II. Later up to 13 years the condition is otherwise unchanged with the exception of the occurrence in some cases of slight peristaltic-like waves along the canalis egestorius (Stage III). In other cases the canalis egestorius is of normal width and shows normal peristalsis. A clinically symptom-free member of a pair of twins, the other member with a typical pyloric stenosis, Stage I, showed the roentgen-anatomical picture of Stage II. The anatomical change consists partly of a thickening of the muscularis propria and partly of the mucosa. In Stages I and II the muscularis propria is unchanged, in Stage III it shows an incipient peristalsis. In Stage I the mucosa almost entirely fills the lumen – manifest symptoms and prolonged opening time. In Stages II and III the swelling of the mucosa is decreased with a canalisation of the lumen and disappearance of the symptoms. The change may be limited to Stage II without any clinical symptoms.
Optimal Dynamic Auctions and Simple Index Rules

A monopolist seller has multiple units of an indivisible good to sell over a discrete, finite time horizon. Buyers with unit demand arrive over time and each buyer privately knows her arrival time, her value for a unit, and her deadline. We study whether the seller's optimal allocation rule is a simple index rule. Each buyer is assigned an index and the allocation rule is calculated by a dynamic knapsack algorithm using those indices. “Simple” indicates that the index of a buyer depends only on “local” information, i.e., the distribution information for that time period. If buyer deadlines are public, such simple index rules are optimal if the standard increasing hazard rate condition on the distribution of valuations holds, and, given two buyers with the same deadline, the later-arriving one has a lower hazard rate implying stochastically higher valuations. When buyer deadlines are private, this condition is neither sufficient nor necessary. If the rule we identify is not feasible, then the optimal allocation rule is not a simple index rule and cannot be calculated by backward induction.
Hemophagocytic Syndrome in Children: An Important Diagnostic Consideration in Fever of Unknown Origin

To study the evolution of hemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) in children, we performed a retrospective review of 19 patients (median age, 17.4 months) in whom an infectious diseases consultation was requested at Texas Children's Hospital during the period of September 1991 through September 2001. Clinical findings consistent with HPS most frequently presented during days 6-14 of illness, concomitant with laboratory abnormalities. Fever was present for a median of 19 days before the diagnosis of HPS. Elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase and ferritin levels were noted in all patients. An infectious agent was identified in 42% of patients; 16% were found to have immunologic or vasculitic disease. HPS is a rare but often fatal disease that can initially present as fever of unknown origin with varying clinical findings, and it can be recognized by physicians who are familiar with the evolution of HPS. It is likely that many of these cases remain undiagnosed because of the HPS's rapidly fatal course.
A Review of Economic Properties of Music Distribution

Music industry is “facing the music” now. Big stakeholders try very hard to maintain their positions while other players see opportunities in the advent of peerto-peer networks. Music, as a kind of representative information good, deserves its economic properties to be examined and made explicit. This paper reviews various aspects of the literature covering information goods, tries to extend the analysis to the distribution of music and points out possible venues to follow in order to look for a solution.
Instrumentation System to Measure Geomagnetically Induced Current Effects

An instrumentation system to measure effects of geomagnetically induced current (GIC) has been developed for application to the Alaska intertie. This paper describes unique design aspects of this instrumentation system and the parameters which are measured. Application of this instrumentation to an electric power distribution system will result in quantification of GIC effects on that specific system.