cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Population change: friend or foe of the chronic care system?

The care needs of the “frail” elderly represent a large part of the chronic care system and are met through a variety of means, including the services of family members. Consequently, projected growth in the elderly population, combined with increasing demands on their shrinking families, seems to imply both demand- and supply-side pressures on the chronic care system. Yet recent downward trends in old-age disability suggest to some that care needs might not grow. I review evidence relevant to these demand- and supply-side factors, with particular attention to the distinction between trends and compositional change, the factors’ respective contributions to declining disability, and their prospects for continuation in the future. I conclude that population change is more likely to be foe than friend of the chronic care system for several decades.
Treatment of Myoclonus

Myoclonus creates significant disability for patients. This symptom or sign can have many different etiologies, presentations, and pathophysiological mechanisms. A thorough evaluation for the myoclonus etiology is critical for developing a treatment strategy. The best etiological classification scheme is a modified version from that proposed by Marsden et al. in 1982. Clinical neurophysiology, as assessed by electromyography and electroencephalography, can be used to classify the pathophysiology of the myoclonus using a neurophysiology classification scheme. If the etiology of the myoclonus cannot be reversed or treated, then symptomatic treatment of the myoclonus itself may be warranted. Unfortunately, there are few controlled studies for myoclonus treatments. The treatment strategy for the myoclonus is best derived from the neurophysiology classification scheme categories: 1) cortical, 2) cortical–subcortical, 3) subcortical–nonsegmental, 4) segmental, and 5) peripheral. A cortical physiology classification is most common. Levetiracetam is suggested as first-line treatment for cortical myoclonus, but valproic acid and clonazepam are commonly used. Cortical–subcortical myoclonus is the physiology demonstrated by myoclonic seizures, such as in primary epileptic myoclonus (e.g., juvenile myoclonic epilepsy). Valproic acid has demonstrated efficacy in such epileptic syndromes with other medications providing an adjunctive role. Clonazepam is used for subcortical–nonsegmental myoclonus, but other treatments, depending on the syndrome, have been used for this physiological type of myoclonus. Segmental myoclonus is difficult to treat, but clonazepam and botulinum toxin are used. Botulinum toxin is used for focal examples of peripheral myoclonus. Myoclonus treatment is commonly not effective and/or limited by side effects.
Freshwater systems threatened, report charges

U.S. freshwater systems, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands, may face serious threats from temperature increases and weather pattern variations projected for the coming century according to a 29 January report by the Pew Center on Global Climate Change.
Neurochemical, morphological, and neurophysiological abnormalities in retinas of Sandhoff and GM1 gangliosidosis mice

Retinal abnormalities are well documented in patients with ganglioside storage diseases. The total content and distribution of retinal glycosphingolipids was studied for the first time in control mice and in Sandhoff disease (SD) and GM1 gangliosidosis mice. Light and electron microscopy of the SD and the GM1 retinas revealed storage in ganglion cells. Similar to previous findings in rat retina, GD3 was the major ganglioside in mouse retina, while GM2 and GM1 were minor species. Total ganglioside content was 44% and 40% higher in the SD and the GM1 retinas, respectively, than in the control retinas. Furthermore, GM2 and GM1 content were 11-fold and 51-fold higher in the SD and the GM1 retinas than in the control retinas, respectively. High concentrations of asialo-GM2 and asialo-GM1 were found in the SD and the GM1 retinas, respectively, but were undetectable in the control retinas. The GSL abnormalities in the SD and the GM1 retinas reflect significant reductions in beta-hexosaminidase and beta-galactosidase enzyme activities, respectively. Although electroretinograms appeared normal in the SD and the GM1 mice, visual evoked potentials were subnormal in both mutants, indicating visual impairments. Our findings present a model system for assessing retinal pathobiology and therapies for the gangliosidoses.
Decidual activation in parturition: examination of amniotic fluid for mediators of the inflammatory response.

The accumulation of bioactive agents (characteristic of an inflammatory-type response) in amniotic fluid is common during term and preterm labor, viz., interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). In addition, prostaglandins, including PGE2, PGF2 alpha, and PGFM, also accumulate in amniotic fluid in some cases of term and preterm labor. From these observations, a number of critical questions arise. Namely, 1) what is the tissue source of origin of these agents?; 2) what are the stimuli that evoke this inflammatory response?; and, 3) are these bioactive agents of inflammation involved in the commencement of labor or else a natural accompaniment of the parturition process? It is reasonable to suspect that the decidua is activated during parturition as the membranes-decidua are exposed after cervical dilation to the vaginal/cervical secretions. Amnion and chorion laeve, in the human, are avascular tissues that produce PGE2 but not PGF2 alpha. Therefore, the accumulation of PGF2 alpha and PGFM in amniotic fluid during labor cannot be attributed to a fetal membrane origin. Moreover, the fetal membranes and decidua do not convert PGE2 to PGF2 alpha. In addition, the fetal membranes do not produce mature, i.e., secreted 17kD IL-1 beta. On the other hand, the decidua does produce PGF2 alpha and PGFM and is stimulated to do so by agents in the vaginal secretions, namely, bacterial endotoxin and IL-1 beta. After the fetal membranes and contiguous decidua are exposed during the time of cervical dilatation, these tissues are acted upon to cause 1) an influx of mononuclear phagocytes into the forebag compartment of the amniotic fluid; 2) to produce PGF2 alpha and PGFM; and 3) to produce cytokines, including IL-1 beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. Exposure of the fetal membranes-decidua to bioactive agents in vaginal/cervical secretions will effect an inflammatory response both in vivo and in vitro. We conclude that the accumulation of bioactive agents characteristic of the inflammatory response in amniotic fluid during term and preterm labor is usually an accompaniment of parturition and not its cause.
The anisotropic ESR spectrum of the SF5 radical

Abstract The polycrystalline ESR spectrum of the SF5 radical has been observed in γ-irradiated sulphur hexafluoride at −196° after annealing the sample at −137° to remove the SF−6 radical which is also produced by the irradiation. A satisfactory simulation of the highly anisotropic powder spectrum was achieved by adopting C4γ symmetry for the SF5 radical with the major principal axes of the equatorial 19F hyperfine tensors inclined at an angle of 30° to the basal plane of the four equatorial fluorines. Since these axes are considered to represent the approximate directions of the SFe σ bonds in the radical, the results contrast with previous INDO calculations indicating that the sulphur atom lies close to the basal plane in equilibrium geometry. As expected, a large fraction (ca. 50%) of the total spin density is present in the 2pσ orbitals of the equatorial fluorines with the remainder distributed between the sulphur 3s orbital and the sulphur 3pz orbital which has its axis perpendicular to the basal plane.
On the simulation of continuous non-linear filters A comparative study of second- and third-order approximations

Abstract Among several second-order approximations to the filter of a non-linear system, it is found that the extended Kalman filter is generally the most versatile. The second-order likelihood filter, also known ns the Detchmendy—Sridhar filter is inferior to the ahove and at the same time involves more computation. In the special ease when analytical expressions For the gaussian expectation integrals of the non-linearities can be found, the extended Kalman filter can be further improved by using stochastic linear approximations as suggested by Sunahara. The third-order likelihood filter derived in this paper is more accurate than the above, but calls for considerable storage space and computing time.
High-performance liquid chromatography as a diagnostic tool in prolonged neuromuscular blockade.

We report the use of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to identify the cause of prolonged neuromuscular blockade in a child who had received 2 mg.kg-1 of succinylcholine. Upon analysis by HPLC the syringe was found to contain succinylcholine (10 mg.ml-1) and also atracurium (5 mg.ml-1), so that a diagnosis was established. In situations where medication errors are suspected, we recommend saving syringe contents for analysis for confirmation of the agent.
Phase transition in a lattice gas of hard spheres with second-neighbor exclusions on the simple cubic lattice

Using reflection positivity and the Peierls argument, we prove the existence of an ordered phase at sufficiently high activity for a lattice gas of hard spheres on the simple cubic lattice with first- and second-neighbor exclusions.
Coexisting shear- and compressional-wave seismic velocity discontinuities beneath the central Pacific

Stacking of broadband shear waves (S) and short-period compressional waves (P) provides compelling evidence for the existence of a localized discontinuous increase in both S and P wave velocity 230 km above the core-mantle boundary (CMB) beneath the central Pacific. Modelling indicates a 1.7% increase in S velocity (V s ) and a 0.75% increase in P velocity (Vp). Similar features have been detected intermittently on a global basis, but seldom with S and P structure being resolved in the same location. Previous evidence for anisotropy near the CMB beneath the central Pacific suggests that the discontinuity may be related to anisotropic fabrics induced by flow in the thermal boundary layer above the core.
Defect Centers Induced By Linear And Non-Linear Absorption Of UV Light In High Purity Silica

Defect centers induced by 6.4 eV laser light in high purity silica were studied by electron spin resonance (ESR). Both Si E' centers, and non-bridging oxygen hole centers (NBOHCs) were observed. However, the E' center was the dominant defect in type III synthetic silicas (1200 ppm OH), while the NBOHC was dominant in type IV silicas (< 5 ppm OH). Formyl radicals (HCO) and hydrogen-associated centers were also observed in high-water silica. The concentrations of both Si E' centers and NBOHCs were found to increase as the square of the 6.4 eV laser power suggesting that they are induced through non-linear absorption of UV light. By contrast, we find that the HCO concentration increases linearly at low laser power, saturates, and decreases at high power. Excitons induced by the non-linear absorption of UV light are inferred to be responsible for the generation of these observed defect centers in high purity silica.
Role of ammonia as a buffer in the central nervous system.

Abstract During respiratory acidosis, increased brain buffering capacity and CSF bicarbonate concentration are associated with elevated CNS ammonia and glutamine and reduced glutamic acid content. To determine the exact buffering effects of ammonia in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid in the absence of any acid-base disturbance, anesthetized dogs, kept at a normal P a CO 2 , were given buffered NH 4 Cl intravenously. Ammonia readily entered the CNS during infusion and despite a slight fall in arterial pH, CSF bicarbonate increased markedly and was linearly related to CSF ammonia. Brain ammonia initially rose but later declined as changes in the CNS concentration of glutamine and glutamic acid indicated activation of this pathway of ammonia detoxification. Despite nearly a ten-fold increase in brain lactate, intracellular pH was unchanged, as demonstrated by the stable brain CO 2 dissociation curve. These results indicate that ammonia can act as a strong buffer in the CNS to produce elevated CSF bicarbonate and a large intracellular base excess. Since the brain can regulate its ammonia content through the glutamine-glutamic acid pathway, CNS ammonia production is an important buffer mechanism for controlling the brain and CSF pH.
Conceptual lessons on financial strategy following the US sub‐prime crisis

Purpose – On September 18, 2007, the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee took a major step by cutting the federal funds rate by one‐half a percent (50 basis points). The only time this had happened in the USA was immediately after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Then the sub‐prime derivatives market threatened to engulf the US economy under a dark cloud of uncertainty. The purpose of this paper is an attempt to draw lessons relevant to international financial strategy from the US sub‐prime crisis.Design/methodology/approach – This paper presents reflections upon the sub‐prime derivatives market that had begun to evolve since 1993. Reviewing the situation from then until as late as of October 18, 2007, five key lessons are conceptualized. Where possible, insights on the major lessons to be drawn are rendered through simple diagrams.Findings – Five major lessons may be drawn from the sub‐prime turmoil. For easy citation, these are presented as idioms: “Do not put all bad eggs in one basket,” “Excessive de...
Phosphorylation of the regulator of G protein signaling RGS9-1 by protein kinase a is a potential mechanism of light- and Ca2+-mediated regulation of G protein function in photoreceptors

In vertebrate photoreceptors, photoexcited rhodopsin interacts with the G protein transducin, causing it to bind GTP and stimulate the enzyme cGMP phosphodiesterase. The rapid termination of the active state of this pathway is dependent upon a photoreceptor-specific regulator of G protein signaling RGS9-1 that serves as a GTPase activating protein (GAP) for transducin. Here, we show that, in preparations of photoreceptor outer segments (OS), RGS9-1 is readily phosphorylated by an endogenous Ser/Thr protein kinase. Protein kinase C and MAP kinase inhibitors reduced labeling by about 30%, while CDK5 and CaMK II inhibitors had no effect. cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor H89 reduced RGS9-1 labeling by more than 90%, while dibutyryl-cAMP stimulated it 3-fold, implicating PKA as the major kinase responsible for RGS9-1 phosphorylation in OS. RGS9-1 belongs to an RGS subfamily also including RGS6, RGS7, and RGS11, which exist as heterodimers with the G protein β subunit Gβ5. Phosphorylated RGS9-1 rem...
A multi-objective optimisation approach for order management: incorporating activity-based costing in supply chains

Most of the supply chain order management decision making models proposed in the literature are based mainly on the material flow and capacity constraints without any consideration to the profitability factor. In this paper, we develop a multi-objective mixed-integer programming (MIP) model which considers profitability in order to effectively manage order acceptance decisions in supply chains, subject to capacity constraints by using activity-based costing (ABC). While there are a numbers of decision-making models in literature integrating ABC in supply chains, this study expands the previous models with a more customer-oriented approach. The proposed model fulfils a desirable amount of orders completely and accepts selective number of orders partially with an objective of minimising the amount of residual capacity and increasing the profitability.
Making Moderation an End in Itself: William Nelson's Fourteenth Amendment

William E. Nelson, The Fourteenth Amendment: From Political Principle to Judicial Doctrine.
Tissue Growth and Remodeling of the Embryonic and Adult Adrenal Gland

The adrenal gland provides a model system for the study of tissue remodeling in endocrine physiology. For example, proper adrenal development requires proliferation of the adrenogonadal primordia, separation of adrenal and gonadal precursors, and cell migration that unites the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla. In the adult, normal adrenal function is assured by the adrenal gland's unique capacity for growth in response to both tissue injury and physiological demand. Identification of the molecular and genetic programs underlying tissue remodeling in the adrenal is important for understanding basic aspects of development and regeneration, as well as adrenal disease. Here, we will highlight the roles that nuclear receptors and pituitary hormones play in regulating fetal adrenal development and adult adrenal growth. In addition, we will review the most current data on how extracellular signaling pathways are coupled to the function of these important regulators of adrenal development and function.
Porous silicon surface feature size estimation using the reflectance spectrum

In this paper we excite the surface of porous silicon with incoherent, broad band white light and observe the spectrum of colors reflected from the surface. Using an atomic force microscope images from red and green porous silicon samples are collected. In this paper we relate the optical color of the surface to the size of scattering features on the textured surface. From image segmentation using the watershed transform the height distributions of the optical scattering features are determined. The heights of these surface features are then used as input variables to a computer simulation of a reflective grating. The computer predicted color is compared to the measured color. In this manner, by inspection of the reflected color from the textured porous silicon surface the physical size of the surface features can be estimated.
Suppression of cytoplasmic division in Amoeba proteus.

CYTOPLASMIC division in Amoeba proteus can be suppressed by the application of strong light during the division process1. The same can be achieved as follows. Division is allowed to proceed undisturbed until nuclear division is complete. When the cell becomes elongated and the division furrow appears, slight pressure with a glass needle is applied for short intervals alternately on each one of them, thus shifting parts of the liquid endoplasm back and forth from one prospective daughter cell into the other. After about 7–10 min. of such treatment, without having completed the cleavage the cell resumed its normal interphase appearance. The surface, which had been covered with blebs, becomes smooth, pseudopodia are formed, and the cleavage furrow gradually disappears. Pressure applied for the same length of time before the completion of nuclear division does not prevent either nuclear or cytoplasmic division. Once the furrowing process is suppressed no cytoplasmic division occurs before the next full cell division about 20–28 hr. later.
A whole new world: using international information sources

Purpose – ‐‐ This paper aims to introduce readers to international governmental information sources.Design/methodology/approach ‐‐ The paper offers an introduction to international information sources and research methods as well as governmental structural information while providing an overview of the United Nations and European Union as well as several other sources.Findings ‐‐ International information comprises governmental, intergovernmental and non‐governmental sources. Knowledge of government structures with regard to international governments can provide guidance in locating specific governmental information.Research limitations/implications ‐‐ Due to myriad information sources, it is impossible to provide a comprehensive overview of international governmental sources. Also, technology and changing governments add to the challenge of becoming familiar with informational sources in a shortened amount of time.Originality/value ‐‐ This paper provides an introduction to international governmental sources for the general reference librarian with the ultimate purpose of providing clarity and confidence when offering international governmental reference services.
Vinexin: a novel vinculin-binding protein with multiple SH3 domains enhances actin cytoskeletal organization.

Using the yeast two-hybrid system and an in vitro binding assay, we have identified a novel protein termed vinexin as a vinculin-binding protein. By Northern blotting, we identified two types of vinexin mRNA that were 3 and 2 kb in length. Screening for full-length cDNA clones and sequencing indicated that the two mRNA encode 82- and 37-kD polypeptides termed vinexin α and β, respectively. Both forms of vinexin share a common carboxyl-terminal sequence containing three SH3 domains. The larger vinexin α contains an additional amino-terminal sequence. The interaction between vinexin and vinculin was mediated by two SH3 domains of vinexin and the proline-rich region of vinculin. When expressed, vinexin α and β localized to focal adhesions in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, and to cell–cell junctions in epithelial LLC-PK1 cells. Furthermore, expression of vinexin increased focal adhesion size. Vinexin α also promoted upregulation of actin stress fiber formation. In addition, cell lines stably expressing vinexin β showed enhanced cell spreading on fibronectin. These data identify vinexin as a novel focal adhesion and cell– cell adhesion protein that binds via SH3 domains to the hinge region of vinculin, which can enhance actin cytoskeletal organization and cell spreading.
Liquid crystalline polymers: A comparison of two synthetic approaches to thermotropic polymers

Liquid crystalline polymers [OPhCOO-R-OCOPhOCOPh(R')CO] n (R= CH 2 (CH 2 OCH 2 ) 2 CH 2 , (CH 2 ) 10 ; R'= H, Br, CF 3 ) were synthesized using a method (A) based on the simultaneous construction of the mesogenic unit during polymerization and using Bilibin's mesogenic monomer method (B). Both methods each offer distinct advantages. Method A allows for the systematic study of LCP's with varying mesogenic composition. This is achievable through polymerization of the bisphenolic monomer with different diacid chlorides. Method B lends itself to the systematic study of LCP's with varying spacer groups
Tissue-specific posttranslational processing of pre-prosomatostatin encoded by a metallothionein-somatostatin fusion gene in transgenic mice

The somatostatins are neuropeptides of 14 and 28 amino acids that inhibit the release of growth hormone and other hypophyseal and gastrointestinal peptides. These neuropeptides are cleaved posttranslationally from a common precursor, pre-prosomatostatin. We report here the production and processing of pre-prosomatostatin by transgenic mice carrying a metallothionein-somatostatin fusion gene. The most active site of somatostatin production, as determined by hormone concentrations in the tissues, is the anterior pituitary, a tissue that does not normally synthesize somatostatin-like peptides. Anterior pituitary processed pre-prosomatostatin almost exclusively to the two biologically active peptides, somatostatin-14 and somatostatin-28, whereas the liver and kidney synthesized much smaller quantities of predominantly a 6000 dalton somatostatin-like peptide. The growth of the transgenic mice was normal despite high plasma levels of the somatostatin-like peptides. These studies indicate that proteases which cleave prosomatostatin to somatostatin-28 and somatostatin-14 are not specific to tissues that normally express somatostatin.
Oxidative mechanisms underlying methyl mercury neurotoxicity

Cerebellar granule cells from 5-12-day-old rats can be incubated in suspension at 37 degrees C for up to 3 hr with minimal decline in viability. Methyl mercury was found to produce time- and concentration-dependent cell killing with greater than 85% cell death after 3 hr exposure to a concentration of 20 microM. Previously characterized inhibition of protein and RNA synthesis as well as known methyl mercury-induced defects in cellular ATP production have been shown to be incapable of causing this degree of cell death. Here we report that methyl mercury induced a concentration-dependent increase in membrane lipoperoxidation and a rapid decline in reduced glutathione in this cerebellar neuronal preparation. Hydrogen peroxide at 5 mM was found to closely reproduce each of the cytotoxic effects manifested by methyl mercury suggesting that oxidizing conditions produced by methyl mercury may account for the observed cell death. Methyl mercury-induced lipoperoxidation was not the cause of cell death since malonaldehyde production could be blocked by alpha-tocopherol or EDTA without appreciable protecting against cell death. Significant protection from methyl mercury-induced cell death was observed, with EGTA, deferoxamine and KCN. We propose that oxidative events contribute to the toxic mechanism of action of methyl mercury in isolated cerebellar granule neurons.
Influence of Green “Safelight” on the Amaranthin Accumulation of Etiolated Seedlings of Amaranthus caudatus. Far-Red Light and GA3 Effects

Summary The influence of GSL on amaranthin accumulation in etiolated seedlings of Amaranthus caudatus was investigated. 4 to 5 min GSL induced 35 to 45% of the effect of a saturating R pulse. In complete darkness amaranthin accumulation was extremely low. Under these conditions a clear effect of a FR pulse on amaranthin accumulation could be established (about 300% compared with the dark control and about 60% compared with a saturating R pulse). GA3 did not inhibit amaranthin accumulation in darkness, only light-induced photoresponses (amaranthin accumulation, hypocotyl growth) including the GSL-induced photoresponses were inhibited.
Comparison of dead time compensation schemes for discrete implementation of the Q-PID algorithm

Abstract A PID type algorithm called Q-PID was developed to improve online quality control of continuous processes. It has adjustable parameters to improve the controlled variable response or to decrease the manipulated variable movements, hence decrease the cost of control. Q-PID has PID type terms, a lead/lag term and dead time compensation. All previously published work using this algorithm considered continuous systems. Discrete implementation must be analyzed so that it can be used practically. This paper presents a sound development and simulation of the three possible dead time implementation schemes, Smith predictor, analytical predictor, and generalized analytical predictor that could be used for discrete implementation. It was discovered that either the Smith predictor or analytical predictor techniques could be used in the Q-PID with satisfactory results. The generalized analytical predictor results in drastic cost increases and instability in the presence of modeling error. The Smith predictor is the suggested method as it performs the best in the presence of modeling error and is simple and easy to implement.
Self-image of emotionally disturbed adolescents.

This study examined the ways in which normal, depressed, and conduct-disordered adolescents differ with regard to self-image. Normal and psychiatrically hospitalized adolescents completed the Offer Self Image Questionnaire for Adolescents (OSIQ). Patients were grouped on the basis of their DSM-III diagnoses, and their OSIQ scores were compared. Major depressive disorder, particularly the first episode, was associated with poor self-evaluation in multiple areas, while conduct disorder was associated with almost no specific self-image deficits. For younger (12- to 15-year-old) adolescents, a repeated episode of depression was associated with a poorer selfimage than was a diagnosis of dysthymic disorder or a typical depression, but a better self-image than a single episode of depression, suggesting that at this age, repeated episodes are met with internal adaptation rather than continued self-devaluation. Adolescents who received a diagnosis of both conduct disorder and major depression reported an overall level of self-image disturbance between those with either of these disorders alone, suggesting that acting-out behaviors may attenuate the self-devaluing experience of depression. Results are discussed in terms of current issues in adolescent development and developmental psychopathology.
Structural organization of surface domains of sperm mitochondria

Sperm mitochondria are assembled into an organized sheath surrounding the outer dense fibers and axoneme of the flagellar midpiece. Each mitochondrion is arranged so that its surface faces three different cellular organelles including the plasma membrane, neighboring mitochondria and the outer dense fiber-axoneme complex. In this manuscript we present data on structural differentiations of these three different surface domains of the outer mitochondrial membrane. We demonstrate that the apposed surfaces of adjacent mitochondria are joined by a two dimensional network of studs unique to this domain. By contrast, the surface domain facing the outer dense fiber-axoneme complex exhibits a different, but highly ordered structural organization, evident as a parcrystalline network of parallel stripes; this domain is further distinguished by its exclusive association with a midpiece-specific cytoskeletal complex. These differentiations are not seen on the surface domain of mitochondria which faces the plasma membrane. The implications of the mosaic composition of the outer mitochondrial membrane in the assembly and function of the mitochondrial sheath are discussed.
Effect of Apolipoprotein E Genotype on Cerebral Autoregulation During Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Background and Purpose—The presence of the apolipoprotein E e4 (apoE4) allele has been associated with cognitive decline after cardiac surgery. We compared autoregulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen (CMRO2), and arterial−venous oxygen content difference [C(A−V)O2], during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in patients with and without the apoE4 allele to help define the mechanism of association with cognitive decline. Methods—One hundred fifty-four patients underwent coronary artery bypass grafting with CPB, nonpulsatile flow, and α-stat management. CBF was measured by using 133Xe washout methods. C(A−V)O2, CMRO2, and oxygen delivery were calculated. Pressure-flow autoregulation was tested by using 2 CBF measurements at stable hypothermia: the first at stable mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the second 15 minutes later, when MAP had increased or decreased ≥20%. Metabolism-flow autoregulation was tested by varying the temperature and measuring the coupling of CBF and CMRO2. R...
Determining the assembly sequence from a 3-D model☆

Geometric modeling systems are rapidly replacing manual drafting techniques for defining the geometry of mechanical parts and assemblies. This makes possible the development of a variety of software tools to aid the designer in effective representation and evaluation of mechanical systems and assemblies (MSA's). The long term goal of our research is to address the question: Can the given MSA be assembled automatically with the given facilities? In order to accomplish our goal we need to develop techniques to model the Mechanical System/Assembly (MSA) and the available facilities. In this paper, we address the first part of our goals and develop a methodology to automatically determine the assembly sequence from a 3-D solid modeler description of the assembly. Our approach consists of automatically determining a set of assembly operations, through a disassembly procedure, that lead to the given assembly (MSA). We use the Noodles Solid Modeler, that has been developed at Carnegie Mellon, to describe the assembly. We have implemented our algorithm to determine the disassembly sequence on a SUN workstation in C language. We also describe our initial implementation through an example.
On the use of a peptidase inhibitor (trasylol) for storage of I125-labelled peptide hormones (HGH, TSH, ACTH, insulin, glucagon, PTH)

Von den untersuchten J125-markierten Peptidhormonen sind HGH und TSH auch ohne Trasylol gut haltbar. Die massige Degradation von Insulin und die rasch zunehmende Degradation von PTH und Glukagon kann durch Trasylol (500 E/ml) verhindert werden. Fur ACTH ist eine Kombination von Trasylol mit 0.5% Mercaptoethanol erforderlich.
Effect of lattice disregistry variation on the late stage phase transformation behavior of precipitates in NiAlMo alloys

Abstract A variety of experimental techniques have been applied to examine how compositional variations in lattice disregistry (δ) affect the coarsening kinetics and particle morphology evolution of γ′ particles in several Ni-Al-Mo alloys. Mo segregates to and increases the lattice parameter of the γ matrix in two phase Ni-base Al alloys. Therefore, controlled ternary additions of Mo to dilute, binary Ni-Al alloys permits variation of the lattice parameter disregistry between the Ni-base solid solution and the Ni3Al ordered precipitates. Compositions were selected to maintain an approximately constant 10% volume fraction of the second phase. The coarsening rate of the γ′ phase is observed to decrease with decreasing lattice disregistry and decreasing Al Mo ratio. The implications of this observation are discussed with reference to differences in solid solubility, diffusivity and interfacial energy. The γ′ particle shape in low coherency strain alloys is observed to be spherical and independent of particle size. In an alloy exhibiting appreciable δ and coherency strain, the γ′ particles evolve from randomly distributed spheres to sharply aligned cubes and rods as particle size increases. There is also an increase in δ with aging time in this alloy. Compression creep of [100] single crystals at 750°C did not affect the shape of particles in the low coherency strain alloys while in a higher disregistry alloy, a highly oriented array of plates grew with long edges perpendicular to the applied stress direction. These findings are discussed with regard to stress and thermodynamic considerations.
The evolving motivations of ethnic entrepreneurs

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand the motivations and dynamics of Polish small business owners who are living and working in the United Kingdom several years after Poland’s enlargement to the European Union. Design/methodology/approach – The data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 39 Polish migrants, residing in the Cardiff area, in 2008 and 2011. During the 2008 data collection period, 20 interviews were completed, and during the 2011 data collection period, 19 interviews were completed. Findings – The findings highlight that migrants become entrepreneurs for a variety of reasons, blurring the lines between cultural and economic entrepreneurship as well as between necessity and opportunity entrepreneurship. The findings also highlight the changing motivations of the ethnic entrepreneurs over time, particularly when the demand for their product is unsustainable. Research limitations/implications – The generalisabilty of the research is limited because of the small samp...
Electrical Discharge based Microfabrication on Electrospun Nanofibers

This paper reports the use of electrical discharge for fabricating microstructures on electrospun polymer nanofibers. Microchips containing an array of conductive microelectrodes are fabricated. Electrical discharges are induced by applying high electrical voltage to these microelectrodes. The thermal energy generated by the micropatterned discharge arcs elevates the temperature in localized regions and melts polymer nanofibers in the close vicinity. Microstructures with the minimum line width as small as 20 ?m are demonstrated. This method provides a promising start point to interface biodegradable nanofibrous materials to microstructures, which is significant for a broad array of biomedical and industrial applications.
Model Predictive Inferential Control with Application to a Composites Manufacturing Process

In this paper, we present a model predictive inferential control (MPIC) strategy to address the problem of controlling unmeasured output variables (such as quality) using readily available secondar...
Comparison of Surgical Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis Associated With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis Versus Brooke Ileostomy

Objective To compare the operative risks, operative complications, and late outcome of two homogeneous groups of patients with chronic ulcerative colitis (CUC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) who underwent either Brooke ileostomy or ileal pouchanal anastomosis (IPAA). Material and Methods Between 1970 and 1990, 72 patients with CUC and PSC underwent proctocolectomy with either Brooke ileostomy (group I; N=32) or IPAA (group II; N=40). Postoperative data included operative mortality, need for blood transfusion, general postoperative complications, liver-related complications, and proctocolectomy-related complications. Results Eight group I patients and nine group II patients had a total of 12 and 11 general complications, respectively. Liver-related complications were diagnosed in 16% and 10% of group I and group II patients, respectively. Proctocolectomy-specific complications occurred in 34% of group I and 20% of group II patients. The overall need for blood transfusion was 94% in group I and 47% in group II ( P P Conclusion Because IPAA avoids bleeding problems, it is the surgical treatment of choice in patients with PSC and CUC.
Splanchnic lactic acid metabolism in hyperventilation, metabolic alkalosis and shock

Abstract Hyperlactatemia was induced in dogs by vigorous hyperventilation, shock or bicarbonate infusion, and blood was sampled from the aorta, hepatic vein and lower inferior vena cava. Hyperventilation with air caused elevated arterial lactate levels, an outpouring of lactate and glucose from the splanchnic bed and lactate uptake by hind-limb tissues. lactic acid extration by the splanchnic tissues began soon after cessation of hyperventilation. Hyperventilation was associated with declines in blood pressure, hepatic blood flow and hepatic vein oxygen tension, and increased hepatic vein lactate:pyruvate ratios. Pharmacologic or hemorrhagic shock also caused release of lactic acid from the splanchnic bed which was reversed during recovery. Bicarbonate infusion caused hyperlactatemia not associated with splanchnic output of lactic acid. Experiments with isolated perfused rat liver demonstrated that alkalotic perfusion or ischemia could stimulate hepatic release of lactate. Pyruvate uptake and increased glucose output occurred only in hypoxia. These experiments indicate that the changes in splanchnic lactic acid and glucose metabolism in hyperventilation and shock are due to hepatic ischemia and suggest that the liver may play a major role in the pathogenesis of lactic acidosis.
The role of fluids in low temperature, fault-related deformation of quartz arenite

Abstract The microstructural and fluid histories in quartz arenite deformed in a regional-scale fault zone were investigated to determine the role of fluids in the selection of grain-scale deformation mechanisms. Using cathodoluminescence, fluid inclusion microthermometry, and stable isotope geochemistry of quartz cements, three chemically distinct, aqueous fluids were identified that affected the rock at different times during deformation. The earliest deformation microstructures are distributed cataclasites, which were cemented by reddish-brown luminescing quartz precipitated from an aqueous, CaCl 2 brine (Fluid I). Once cemented, brittle deformation continued, but localized along discrete shear surfaces, in narrow zones 20–1000 μm wide, and on discrete microfractures. Microveins associated with this phase were cemented with bluish-green luminescing quartz precipitated from an aqueous, CaCl 2 brine (Fluid II). Water, channelized along dissolution surfaces and in pervasive microfracture networks that formed at this time, promoted hydrolytic weakening and crystal-plastic deformation, especially near fluid pathways. Temperatures during deformation associated with Fluids I and II were 225–235 °C as determined from fluid inclusion data. In the later stages of deformation, an influx of iron-bearing aqueous fluid (Fluid III) greatly accelerated the rate of quartz dissolution and filled fractures, stylolites, and vugs with goethite. The progression of deformation mechanisms indicated by the microstructures and their relationship to the different fluids show that the selection of grain-scale deformation processes is affected not only by the presence of fluids, but also by their chemistry.
Fine structure studies on phragmoplast and cell plate formation

Formation and development of phragmoplast and cell plate were studied in endosperm of Haemanthus katherinae Bak. The same cells were studied with the light and electron microscope. Several cells were studied with time-lapse microcinematography before fixation. This permitted comparison of structures during their development on both the light and electron microscope level. Movements of fibrillar components of the phragmoplast and spindle were analyzed and their transport properties were correlated with formation of the cell plate. Change of arrangement of microtubules, transport of vesicles which form the cell plate, and formation of vesicles and microtubules has also been discussed.
Regulatory and Administrative Agency Behavior: Accommodation, Amplification, and Assimilation*

Much scholarly analysis of regulatory and administrative behavior focuses on officials' reactions to external influences. Commonly discussed is officials' accommodation of external interests or pressures (such as those of interest groups). But case studies show two additional types of behavior: amplification, in which officials enlarge the effects of external influences by anticipating the potential likely consequences of certain kinds of agency actions based upon their understandings of how situations have been responded to or may be responded to by others in the future; and assimilation, where officials define a situation as problematic and coordinate with or take into account various elements of their environment in attending to the perceived problem. Focusing on all three patterns of behavior and the context within which they emerge yields a fuller analysis of the significance of external factors for the exercise of discretion.
Mood Adjustment to Social Situations Through Mass Media Use: How Men Ruminate and Women Dissipate Angry Moods

Mood adjustment goals served to explain gender differences regarding media preferences. Before reacting to antagonism, females are likely to prevent aggression by dissolving aversive states through media consumption, whereas males could preserve aggression by choosing negative content. In a computerized procedure, participants (N = 86) were provoked by supervisor feedback to instigate angry moods. Half of the sample was led to anticipate a retaliation opportunity. In a purportedly separate study, participants were free to choose from online news while software unobtrusively logged their selective news exposure. The articles had been classified as positive or negative news in a pretest. When anticipating a retaliation opportunity, females spent more time reading positive news to dissipate their anger. Males expecting a retaliation opportunity spent more time on negative news to sustain their anger. Males’ generally lower news consumption, especially when anticipating a chance to retaliate, indicated anger rumination through news avoidance altogether.
Role of the Ovary in Controlling Luteinizing Hormone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, and Prolactin Secretion During and After Lactation in Pigs

Concentrations of LH, FSH, prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone were measured in blood samples collected at various intervals during and immediately following lactation to determine the role of the ovary in controlling gonadotropin and prolactin secretion and initiation of estrous cycles in the pig. Ten primiparous sows were ovariectomized (ovex, n = 5) or left intact (n 5) 2 to 4 days after farrowing. Serum progesterone and estrogens in samples collected daily during lactation were not different between intact and ovex sows. Serum FSH increased immediately after ovariectomy and remained elevatedduring lactation,but LH concentrations were similar between ovex and intact sows. Both LH and FSH were higher during the last 2 weeks of lactation than during the first 3 weeks. On Days 10 and 20 of lactation, all sows received (i.v.) two challenges of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH; 400 �g each) at 135 mm intervals. Peak change (maximum value minus baseline) in FSH after GnRH was higher in ovex than in intact sows on both Days 10 and 20. Peak change in FSH in ovex rows was higher on Day 20 than on Da� 10, but peak change in FSH in intact rows was similar between Days 10 and 20. Peak change in LH after GnRFI was similar between ovex and intact sows. Peak change in LH after the second GnRH challenge on Day 10 was higher than that after each of the other three challenges. Although serum prolactin concentrations in selected samples collected on Days 10 and 20 were not significantly different between treatment groups, intact sows had consistently higher concentrations compared with ovex sows. Separation of four sows from their litters for 4 h during the last week of lactation resulted in a decline in serum prolactin, but prolactin increased fivefold within 15 mm and tenfold during the second hour after piglets were replaced. In contrast, LH did not change prior to or after piglets were allowed to nurse. After weaning, concentrations of estrogens peaked during 24 h around onset of estrus prior to
EVIDENCE FOR SECRETION OF VASOACTIVE INTESTINAL PEPTIDE BY TUMOURS OF PANCREAS, ADRENAL MEDULLA, THYROID AND LUNG: SUPPORT FOR THE UNIFYING APUD CONCEPT

Levels of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) were measured by radioimmunoassay in plasma or tissue from thirty-five patients with watery diarrhoea, and in plasma of twenty-five normal controls. Plasma levels were between 0.6 and 11.0 ng/ml in thirty-one of the thirty-three patients in whom it was measured and too low to measure (less than 200 pg/ml) in the other two. Peptide levels were less than 200 pg/ml in twenty-three of the controls, but higher in the remaining two. All tissues from patients were "rich" in VIP (10 ng to 35 microgram per g). The aetiologic diagnoses included pancreatic islet-cell adenoma or adenocarcinoma, islet-cell hyperplasia, bronchogenic carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, ganglioneuroblastoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and retroperitoneal histiocytoma. The findings support the conclusions that: (1) VIP is a likely mediator of the water-diarrhoea syndrome; (2) the syndrome may result from a variety of tumours; (3) this or a related peptide hormone may be secreted by these tumours; and (4) these tumours may have a common embryonic origin.
Electric field measurement for quantum-dot cellular automata clocking circuits

Bistable molecules under electric field are being investigated for the concept of quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA). Different configurations of molecular arrays implement various logic devices and circuits. The electric field emitted from underlying metal wires, which are applied with clock signal, not only enables power gain, but also fulfills pipelining computation. It might be convenient to measure the electric field distribution directly from these metal wires. A pseudo-quantitative method was developed to map the electric field distribution with electrostatic force microscopy. This method converts the phase signal into the electric field intensity, by which we demonstrated how to use a particular electric field distribution to drive the computation of QCA molecules. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.