cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time-course effect of a single dose of hydrocortisone for refractory hypotension in preterm infants.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the time-course effect of a single dose of hydrocortisone (HC) on arterial blood pressure in extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGAN) with refractory hypotension during the first 3 days of life. Methods: We carried out a matched case–control study of a cohort of 116 infants born between 23 and 27 weeks' gestation at a tertiary center. Twelve infants (10%) were treated with HC for refractory hypotension (HC group). HC was administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg when mean arterial pressure (MAP) was below 30 mmHg (25 mmHg for infants <25 weeks of gestational age) despite the use of inotropes and volume expanders. Changes in the MAP after the HC administration were compared with those in the infants who were not treated with HC and matched for gestational age (Control group). Results: The mean MAP before administration of HC was significantly lower in the HC group than that in the control group (24.0 ± 3.2 vs 33.3 ± 4.8 mmHg; P < 0.01). The mean MAP in the HC group increased significantly at 2 h after HC treatment, and then reached levels comparable to those in the Control group at 5 h (31.3 ± 4.0 vs 33.9 ± 4.7 mmHg; P= 0.18), and remained at normal levels until 12 h after HC treatment. Conclusion: A single dose of HC treatment induces a rapid and sustained improvement in blood pressure in ELGAN with refractory hypotension.
Demand-Side Stabilization: Overheating, Hard Landing, and Everything in Between

In the previous chapter, we examined the possibility of a shift in the goods market equilibrium from E0 to a higher equilibrium E1, which equated to an equivalent rightward shift in the AD curve. This chapter continues the analysis with a discussion of the specific fiscal and monetary policies by which the aggregate demand (AD) curve can be shifted to enact demand-side stabilization. This will be followed by an in-depth description of overheating, soft-landings, and hard-landings.
Mapping cerebral sites for emotion and emotional expression with direct cortical electrical stimulation and seizure discharges

Publisher Summary This chapter reports on results obtained by examining human emotions and their expression through two unique windows: direct cortical electrical Stimulation in conscious subjects, and stimulation caused by seizure foci. It focuses on new data obtained with the cortical stimulation technique. Direct cortical electrical stimulation as administered in this study provides one type of window into the question of the organization of systems involved in the emotions in the brain. It has several major advantages in this regard over several other approaches: it gives data from humans directly, rather than non-human primates or other animals; it allows subjective reporting of phenomena that must be assessed indirectly in non-human species; and it represents in some regards a direct probe of neurobiologic mechanisms. However, direct cortical electrical stimulation does have several caveats with its use in this manner. Some of these are apparent from prior work; some are evident from this study. Direct cortical electrical stimulation is thought to have two major types of effects on neural regions: Stimulating or “positive” effects, and “negative” or “functional lesion” effects. Both stimulating and “lesional” effects could conceivably be local, in the same region as the stimulated electrodes, or more remote.
Abstract 18980: N-terminal Region of Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein-C Regulates Sarcomeric and Cardiac Function

Rationale: Cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C) is a trans-filament protein that can bind both the thick and thin filaments and regulate contraction. Previously we showed that decreased cMyBP-C phosphorylation is directly associated with catalytic cleavage of the first 271 residues of the N-terminal (N’) and, as a consequence, contractile dysfunction. This region has been shown to be largely responsible for the actin-myosin interacting properties of cMyBP-C and was postulated to regulate sarcomere sliding velocity. However, it is unknown whether it is necessary to regulate contractile function. Hypothesis: N’-region of cMyBP-C is essential for sarcomeric and cardiac function. Methods and Results: To determine the necessity of N’-region, we generated transgenic mice (C57BL/6) expressing a truncated 110kDa cMyBP-C lacking the first 271 amino acids (Tg110). Compared to non-transgenic litter-mates (NTG), Tg110 mice demonstrate high replacement levels of native cMyBP-C (>95%). Truncated cMyBP-C localized properly to the C-zone and there were no difference in cardiac sarcomere structure between Tg110 and NTG mice. Despite normal localization and sarcomere structure, Tg110 mouse hearts displayed overt chamber dilation and depressed ejection fraction as measured by echocardiography, with little evidence of fibrosis. Cardiac permeabilized myofilament preparations demonstrate depressed maximal force generation in Tg110 compared to NTG, with unchanged Ca 2+ sensitivity and cooperativity. Interestingly, Tg110 myofilaments displayed increased rate of cross-bridge cycling, supporting the hypothesis that the N’-region is responsible for actin interaction and acts as a viscous load on myosin heads. Conclusion: We show that the N’-region of cMyBP-C is indispensable for proper cardiac function. Further, we successfully demonstrate that cMyBP-C is a regulator of cardiac contractility and specifically fulfills that role via its N’-region.
High-Field Flux Dynamics In Disordered Two-Band Superconductivity

The mixed state response of disordered magnesium diboride has a con- spicous absence of the usual flux-density (B) dependent broadening of conductance- temperature and voltage-current curves. This B independence implies a vortex vis- cosity that rises linearly with B. We show that this this anomalous viscosity function can arise from the quasiparticle sea of the quenched weaker band and the unusually long electric field penetration depth that delocalizes the vortex electric fields.
Particle interferometry in heavy ion collisions

In this tutorial paper the method of Hanbury Brown and Twiss (HBT) (1956) used in optical and radiofrequency interferometry and its generalization to particle interferometry are reviewed. We give also an outline of how the HBT effect has been applied in the very active area of current research in heavy ion physics. The space time parameters of the collision region are determined from measurements of particle correlations to give important information about nuclear matter at high energy densities. >
Cloning and expression of cDNA encoding a bovine adrenal cytochrome P-450 specific for steroid 21-hydroxylation

Abstract We isolated a cDNA clone encoding a bovine adrenal cytochrome P-450 specific for steroid 21-hydroxylation (P-450C21). Serum from rabbits immunized with purified P-450C21 precipitated a single protein from the products of an in vitro translation reaction using bovine adrenal mRNA. This protein migrated with P-450C21 on NaDodSO4/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. After sucrose gradient sedimentation, mRNA encoding P-450C21 was found in the 19S fraction. This fraction was reverse transcribed into double-stranded cDNA and inserted into the Pst I site of pBR322 by the dC X dG tailing procedure. Escherichia coli cells transformed with recombinant plasmids were screened with an in situ immunoassay using anti-P-450C21 serum and 125I-labeled staphylococcal protein A. Two colonies consistently bound anti-P-450C21 serum. They were identified as carrying the same plasmid by restriction mapping. This plasmid, pC21a, contains an insert of 520 base pairs. It hybridizes with mRNA encoding P-450C21. The peptide encoded by the insert in pC21a is highly homologous to two peptides isolated from porcine P-450C21 and shows limited homology to the P-450 induced by phenobarbital in rat liver. This clone may be useful in studying the molecular genetics of human congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency.
On the colonial margins and in the global hotspot: Park–people conflicts in highland Thailand

Abstract: Forest resource management in Thailand bears the mark of its historical position on the margins of colonial power and its present position in a biodiversity hotspot. During the colonial era, British forestry in Burma and India had a fundamental influence on the knowledge and techniques used in Thai forest management. More recently, international conservation agendas and organisations have influenced the ways in which the Thai government regulates the forest within its boundaries. The treatment of forests as a national and international resource, defined in interaction with colonial neighbours and global partners, has resulted in legal constructs, spatially simplistic conservation mechanisms and a conception of nature ill-suited to managing forests as a local resource. This paper investigates the manifestation of Thailand's historical legacy in local park-people conflicts by drawing on research conducted in a region where the government is establishing a national park. It finds that the continued use of laws, tools and concepts derived from colonial and global influences undermines the forestry department's ability to address the contemporary challenge of managing forests as a local, as well as a national/global, commons.
Factors Predicting Preservation of Erectile Function in Men Undergoing Open Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

Purpose: The development of erectile dysfunction represents a major concern for potent men with localized prostate cancer undergoing open radical retropubic prostatectomy. We identified factors predicting the preservation of erectile function in men undergoing open radical retropubic prostatectomy.Materials and Methods: Between October 2000 and September 2005 a total of 1,110 men underwent open radical retropubic prostatectomy by a single surgeon. The UCLA-PCI was self-administered at baseline, and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. The 728 (66%) men who responded that they engaged in sexual intercourse with or without taking phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors in the month before surgery and who were not dependent on intracavernous injections, intraurethral suppositories, vacuum devices or penile prostheses were considered potent. Followup was available for 659 men. Of the evaluable men 25 received salvage radiation therapy, adjuvant chemotherapy or hormonal therapy and were excluded from the stu...
The H-Y transplantation antigen: a Y-linked or sex-influenced factor?

IN mice and rats there is one exception to the rule that grafts are always accepted between members of an isogenic population. This applies when females are challenged with skin and other tissues from male donors1–6. The ability of females to reject these grafts varies from strain to strain. For example, while virtually 100 per cent of C57BL/6 (hereafter C57) females and about 75 per cent of A strain females reject male skin isografts, CBA and AU strain females usually accept such grafts. This interstrain diversity occurs despite the fact that the specificity of the Y antigen or “Y factor” is apparently the same in male mice of all stocks7. The basis for this variability stems from two factors: the first is the genotype of the female which determines her capacity to react against male skin and the second is the genetic background of the male which influences the expression of the Y antigen8. Thus the complete penetrance of the Y factor in C57 mice is due to the females of this strain being relatively strong reactors against male skin isografts, and is not because the antigen is strongest in this strain. Indeed, that the antigen is weaker in C57 males than in CBA males follows from the fact that (CBA × C57)F1 hybrid females reject grafts from CBA males more frequently than from C57 males8.
Overcoming the Drawbacks of the Large Lecture Class

class time. Also, instructors in large lec tures tend to be remote?inaccessible authority figures at the front of the class. Finally, the seating arrangement em phasizes the student position as a spec tator, producing a passive audience that expects to be entertained and informed by the performer. These five drawbacks all point to a lack of involvement and a feeling of remoteness in the large lecture classroom. Other studies point out that testing is another special problem associated with the large lecture. Although writing across the curriculum is a worthy goal, correcting 250 essay exams is difficult.
Acetonitrile Adduct Formation as a Sensitive Means for Simple Alcohol Detection by LC-MS

Simple alcohols formed protonated acetonitrile adducts containing up to two acetonitrile molecules when analyzed by ESI or APCI in the presence of acetonitrile in the solvent. These acetonitrile adducts underwent dissociation to form a nitrilium ion, also referred to as the substitution ion. Diols and triols behaved differently. In ESI, they formed only one acetonitrile adduct containing one acetonitrile. The S ion was not observed in ESI and was only weakly observed from the dissociation of the (M + ACN + H)+ ion. On the other hand, the S ion was abundantly formed from the diols in APCI. This formation of acetonitrile adducts and substitution ion from simple alcohols/diols offers an opportunity to detect simple alcohols/diols sensitively by LC-MS interfaced by ESI or APCI. The utility of this chemistry was demonstrated in a method developed for the quantification of cyclohexanol in rat plasma by monitoring the CID-induced fragmentation from the S ion to a fragment ion.
A Piagetian view of reading readiness

Abstract This article deals with the issue of reading readiness and with those primary aged children who are not succeeding in formal reading instruction. After reviewing the traditional approaches to beginning reading instruction, i.e. standardized reading readiness tests, it establishes an alternative theoretical perspective to beginning reading processes in terms of Piaget's ideas regarding representational thinking. Empirical research is cited to support the usefulness of viewing beginning reading processes within a Piagetian framework. Specific teaching implications derived from this theory are then presented. Finally, support is given to the language experience approach to reading.
Use of filtered combustion light and backlit high-speed images in combustion stability studies

The measurement of the heat release is a key part of characterizing the combustion instability, but it is extremely difficult to directly measure in a rocket combustion chamber due to high temperatures and pressures, as well as the complexity of the turbulent reacting flowfield, which can often have more than one phase. Measuring the light emission from excited species during a combustion is a nonintrusive method to approximate a global heat release in combustion chambers. CH∗ and OH∗ are the most often measured species. This paper outlines methods of using a filtered combustion light to obtain a better understanding of the physical mechanisms active in the combustion instability, and to provide partial validation data for predictive models of the combustion instability. Methods that are discussed include Rayleigh index, phase-angle plots, a proper orthogonal decomposition (POD), and a simultaneous imaging of combustion light and backlit flow structures. The methods are applied to an experiment that studies the effects of imposed transverse oscillations on a gas-centered, swirl-coaxial injector element.
Exergy analysis and operational efficiency of a horizontal ground-source heat pump system operated in a low-energy test house under simulated occupancy conditions

Abstract This paper presents data, analyses, measures of performance, and conclusions for a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) providing space conditioning to a 345 m 2 house whose envelope is made of structural insulated panels. The entire house thermal load with R SI -3.7 (R US -21) walls, triple-pane windows (U-factor of 1.64 W m −2 K (0.29 Btu h −1 ft −2 °F −1 )) and solar heat gain coefficient of 0.25, a roof assembly with overall thermal resistance of about R SI -8.8 (R US -50), and low leakage rates of 0.74 ACH at 50 Pa, was satisfied with a 2.16 ton (7.56 kW) GSHP unit. Coefficient of performance is calculated on the basis of the total power input (including duct, ground loop, and control power losses). Exergy analysis provides a true measure of how closely actual performance approaches the ideal, and it unequivocally identifies, better than energy analysis does, the sources and causes of lost work — the root cause of system inefficiencies and wasted energy.
A novel adenoviral vector-mediated neuronal selective gene expression in neonatal mouse brain in response to hypoxia

Selective gene expression targeting neurons is a challenge, which, if successfully overcome, carries an enormous potential for clinical applications in therapeutics against neurodegenerative diseases. We have reported previously the construction of a series of adenoviral vectors capable of selectively expressing a reporter gene luciferase in cultured neurons [D. Huang, A. Desbois, S.T. Hou, A novel adenoviral vector which mediates hypoxia-inducible gene expression selectively in neurons, Gene Ther. 12 (2005) 1369-1376]. A combination of neuron restrictive silencer elements (NRSEs), hypoxia responsive elements (HREs) and CMV minimal promoter (CMVmp) was packaged into replication defective adenovirus to target gene expression selectively in neurons in a hypoxia-regulated manner. In the present study, we injected the adenoviral vectors into the neonatal mouse brain followed by treatment with hypoxia. The expression of the reporter luciferase gene was examined by luciferase assay and fluorescent immunostaining. Neurons and glial cells were identified by staining with antibodies against NeuN and GFAP, respectively. Remarkably, in response to hypoxia, Ad/5HRE-3NRSE showed strong hypoxia-inducible gene expression of the reporter luciferase selectively in neurons but not in glial cells. In contrast, brains infected with the control vector Ad/5HRE showed no selectivity in luciferase expression (in both neurons and glial cells) under the hypoxic condition. Taken together, these studies demonstrated that this vector (Ad/5HRE-3NRSE) can mediate gene expression selectively in neurons both in vitro and in vivo, supporting the suggestion that further refinement of this vector may lead to the development of a useful tool to investigate mechanisms of neuronal damage following cerebral ischemia and a possible effective gene therapy vector to stroke.
NUMERICAL MODEL FOR RADIATIVE HEAT TRANSFER ANALYSIS IN ARBITRARILY SHAPED AXISYMMETRIC ENCLOSURES WITH GASEOUS MEDIA

A numerical model is presented for evaluating thermal radiative transport in irregularly shaped axisymmetric enclosures containing a homogeneous, isotropically scattering medium. Based on the discrete exchange factor (DEF) method, exchange factors between arbitrarily oriented differential surface/volume ring elements are calculated using a simple approach. The present method is capable of addressing blockage effects produced by inner/outer obstructing bodies. The results obtained via the current method are found to be in excellent agreement with existing solutions to several cylindrical media benchmark problems. The solutions to several rocket-nozzle and plug-chamber geometries are presented for a host of geometric conditions and optical thicknesses.
Hybrid spinal constructs using sublaminar polyester bands in posterior instrumented fusions in children: a series of 5 cases.

OBJECTIVE: The authors report the novel use of sublaminar polyester bands in posterior instrumented spinal fusions of the thoracic and lumbar spine and sacrum in 5 children. This is the first reported use of polyester bands in spinal surgery in the United States. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed the demographics and procedural data for children who underwent posterior instrumented fusion using sublaminar polyester bands. RESULTS: Five children, ranging in age from 9 months to 18 years, underwent posterior instrumented fusion for posttrauma kyphotic deformity (1 patient), congenital scoliosis from hemivertebra anomaly (3 patients), and neuromuscular scoliosis associated with spina bifida (1 patient).There were 1 instance of lamina fracture with application and tensioning of the polyester band and 1 instance of transient worsening of proprioception with sublaminar passage of the polyester band. CONCLUSION: Pedicle screws, laminar/pedicle/transverse process hooks, and sublaminar metal wires have been incorporated into posterior spinal constructs and widely reported and used in the thoracic and lumbar spine and sacrum with varying success. This report demonstrates the successful results of hybrid posterior spinal constructs that include sublaminar polyester bands that promise the technical ease of passing sublaminar instrumen - tation with the immediate biomechanical rigidity of pedicte screws and hooks.
Perception of Stop Consonants in Children with Expressive and Receptive-Expressive Language Impairments.

The performance of 32 children with language impairment—11 with expressive language impairment only (LI-E subgroup) and 21 with both receptive and expressive language impairment (LI-ER subgroup)—an...
The extent of reversibility of myocardial ischemia in dogs

Abstract 1. 1. Electrocardiographic, biochemical, and pathologic indications of temporary myocardial ischemia vary in the rate of appearance and reversibility. 2. 2. Electrocardiographic changes were consistently observed immediately following occlusion of the coronary artery, and these changes regressed toward the base-line record if coronary flow was reinstituted within 40 minutes. 3. 3. A significant rise in glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase was observed in the coronary sinus blood after 20 minutes of occlusion. An elevation of the enzyme concentration in the serum, even for a period of 40 minutes, does not necessarily indicate irreversible cellular damage. 4. 4. Tissue injury which was readily reversible occurred after 40 minutes of coronary occlusion. Sixty minutes of sustained tissue anoxia appears to be the critical period beyond which irreversible damage occurs.
Postnatal Nicotine Exposure Does Not Further Enhance Breathing Pattern Alterations Suggestive of Impaired Lung Function in Prenatally Nicotine-Exposed Lambs

Postnatal Nicotine Exposure Does Not Further Enhance Breathing Pattern Alterations Suggestive of Impaired Lung Function in Prenatally Nicotine-Exposed Lambs
Grazing incidence metal optics for the Berkeley Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer satellite - A progress report

The four flight Wolter-Schwarzschild mirrors currently under fabrication for the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) satellite are described. The principal figuring operation of these grazing incidence metal mirrors (gold over nickel on an aluminum substrate) is carried out by diamond turning at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories. Turning has been accomplished and optical testing results analyzed for three of the mirrors. As-turned values of 1.7 arc sec full width at half maximum (FWHM) and half energy width (HEW) of 5 arc seconds in the visible have been achieved. These results illustrate the great potential of precision fabrication technology for the production of large grazing incidence optics.
Immunoelectron microscopic localization of prostatic-specific antigen in human prostate by the protein A-gold complex.

Human prostate specimens from 25 patients provided 15 normal, four benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), and seven adenocarcinoma samples which were studied using a polyclonal antibody against prostatic specific antigen (PSA) and protein A-gold complex. Our study showed the presence of gold particles in cytoplasmic vesicles and granules, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and occasional lysosomal dense bodies in columnar or cuboidal cells of acini from normal, BPH and well-differentiated cancerous specimens, but not in the acinar basal cells. Some moderately differentiated and most poorly differentiated tumors contained undifferentiated neoplastic cells in which PSA localizations often were associated with membranous structures since specific cytoplasmic organelles were not differentiated. In prostatic stroma, invasive cells which were of differentiated type localized gold particles. In addition, some neutrophils and macrophages also localized PSA suggesting their role in phagocytosis of extra-cellularly released PSA in the stroma of BPH and cancerous samples. Thus far, the authors have not observed neutrophils and macrophages with gold particles in normal prostate. We suggest that neutrophils and macrophages were involved in transport of some extracellularly released PSA from the prostatic stroma or other metastatic sites to sera in BPH and cancer patients.
Multiple sex chromosomes in a Mexican cyprinodontid fish.

THE chromosomes of the killifish1–3 family Cyprinodontidae are being studied in many laboratories and the karyotypes of forty-eight of the approximately eighty-five species of North American killifishes have so far been determined (refs. 2 and 3 and our unpublished results), twenty-seven of them by us. All but three of the fifteen or sixteen North American genera of the family have been studied, and of the largest genera, Fundulus (twenty-nine species) and Cyprinodon (about twenty species), twenty-two and thirteen species, respectively, have been karyotyped. The diploid chromosome number of American killifishes is usually 48. The known exceptions are species of the genus Fundulus3,4 and Lucania parva (46), L. interioris (36) and Adinia xenica (32). The latter three species have large metacentric chromosomes indicating centric fusions; they can be enumerated by subtracting the total number of chromosomes from 48. For example, Adinia has sixteen large metacentrics, the thirty-two chromosomes being subtracted from 48.
Evaluation of a multiple disk centrifugal pump as an artificial ventricle.

: A multiple-disk centrifugal pump based on the Tesla Turbine design has been modified for potential use as an artificial ventricle or ventricular assist device. The pump consists of a series of interconnected parallel disks placed within a spiral volute housing. This pump normally operates as a continuous flow device; however, a controller circuit has been developed to also allow for pulsatile operation. Frequency, systolic duration, systolic rise time, and diastolic decay time can be independently controlled to produce a wide range of pulsatile pressures and flows. This pumping system was tested in vitro on a mock circulatory system using a blood analogue. Inlet and outlet pressures, outlet flow, and motor rotations per minute were continually monitored over a wide range of physiologic operating conditions. The disk pump output was compared with that of other artificial ventricles and produced favorable results. Direct experimental comparisons were made with a Harvard Apparatus pulsatile piston pump. Unlike the Harvard pump, the disk pump does not use valves. Rather, a slight forward rotation of the disks is used to offset the adverse diastolic pressure gradient, which avoids backflow through the device.
Hym1p affects cell cycle progression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae HYM1 gene is conserved among eukaryotes. The mammalian orthologue (called MO25) mediates signaling through the AMP-activated protein kinase and other related kinases, implicated in cell proliferation. In yeast, Hym1p plays a role in cellular morphogenesis and also promotes the daughter cell-specific localization of the Ace2p transcription factor. Here, we report that increased dosage of HYM1 apparently shortens the G1 phase of the cell cycle. In the absence of HYM1 or ACE2, mother and daughter cells divide with the same generation times. Genetic analysis of HYM1, ACE2 and CLN3 mutants suggests that these genes together contribute to the establishment of asynchronous mother–daughter cell divisions, but probably not in a linear pathway. Our overall data suggest that Hym1p has a regulatory role in cell cycle progression.
The Use of a Computer Reminder System in an Emergency Department Universal HIV Screening Program

Objective We describe electronic medical record use in automated eligibility determination for an emergency department (ED)–based nontargeted HIV screening program. Methods We reviewed the electronic medical record system at an urban, inner-city ED from March 17 to April 14, 2008. During that period, patient eligibility for HIV screening was electronically determined according to preprogrammed criteria: (1) age between 18 and 64 years; (2) no known history of HIV disease; and (3) no known HIV screening in the previous year. This populated an electronic work list used by HIV testing counselors. Results Of 8,489 ED patients during the study period, the electronic medical record system determined 5,794 (68.3%) as eligible. Of 1,484 (25.6%) patients approached for screening, 1,121 (75.5%) consented, and 5 received confirmed positive results (0.4%). Reasons for ineligibility, as determined by the electronic medical record system, were previous screening 1,125 (41.7%), age 890 (33.0%), known HIV 111 (4.1%), and reason unknown 569 (21.1%). Conclusion Clinical informatics solutions can provide automated delineation of ED subpopulations eligible for HIV screening, according to predetermined criteria, which could increase program efficiency and might accelerate integration of HIV screening into clinical practice.
Production of Deuterated Zeaxanthin by Flavobacterium Multivorum and its Detection by Resonance Raman and Mass Spectrometric Methods

Flavobacterium multivorum, a zeaxanthin-producing organism, was grown aerobically in a medium prepared with deuterated water. Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) and resonance Raman spectroscopy (RRS) analysis revealed 75% replacement of hydrogen by deuterium atoms as indicated by the molecular mass cluster at around m/z 600. Deuterated zeaxanthin upon excitation with a 488 nm laser exhibited characteristic resonance Raman vibrational modes at 1161 and 1504 cm−1 as compared to 1007, 1159 and 1525 cm–1 for undeuterated zeaxanthin. HPLC/APCI-MS and HPLC/RRS were specific and sensitive with limits of detection of 2.5 pg and 50 ng, respectively.
Vertical resistive transition and critical currents in Si/Nb multilayers

Abstract The vertical and in-plane resistive transition have been studied in Si/Nb multilayers with and without initiating and terminating thick Nb electrodes. An anistropic percolation behavior of the vertical and in-plane resistive transition is observed. The behavior of the critical vertical-Josephson current is also discussed.
Short- and long-term endothelial cell loss associated with cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation.

A group of 249 patients undergoing cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation underwent specular microscopic endothelial cell photographs before surgery and eight weeks, one year, and two years after surgery. The intraocular lenses used were the Shearing posterior chamber lens and the transiridectomy clip lens after extracapsular cataract extraction and the Medallion iris suture lens after intracapsular cataract extraction. Thirty-seven patients who underwent cataract extraction without implantation served as controls. Eight weeks after surgery, there was no statistical difference between the groups with intraocular lenses and the groups without them. One year and two years after surgery, endothelial cell loss had occurred in all groups except the group who underwent extracapsular cataract extraction without intraocular lens implantation—a group in which the patients were younger. The long-term endothelial cell loss was greater after intracapsular cataract extraction and was greater in the presence of an implant. There was statistically more endothelial cell loss with the transiridectomy clip lens than with the posterior chamber lens eight weeks and one year after surgery; the patients with posterior chamber lenses had continued to have more endothelial cell loss during the second postoperative year.
The Benefits of Natural Disasters

Humans have worked hard to eliminate the negative effects of fires and floods. These efforts sometimes have unexpected consequences; for instance, the dikes along the Mississippi River eliminated the flood plain and thus exacerbated the flooding in 1993. As discussed in Tilman9s Perspective, two reports in this week9s issue [Leach and Givnish (p. 1555) and Wootton et al. (p. 1558)] show that interference with natural disasters can also affect the abundance of species.
Fast-Fourier-Transform Spectral-Analysis Techniques as a Plasma Fluctuation Diagnostic Tool

A review is given of the key ideas involved in computing power spectral density functions from fast-Fourier-transformed plasma fluctuation data. Next a model is described which enables one to determine, from the computer-generated power spectra, the amplitude, frequency, and wavenumber of each of several waves present in the plasma. The potential of digitally implemented spectral analysis techniques as a plasma diagnostic tool is demonstrated in an experimental study of the evolution, and ultimate turbulent destruction, of a multi-mode drift wave spectrum.
The Community Health Worker: Forty years of experience of an integrated primary rural health care system in Brazil

ABSTRACT: This article presents one aspect of a highly successful, but surprisingly little known, rural health program in Brazil. Information on the selection, training, supervision, productivity, coverage, costs, and quality of care of their Visitadoras, a type of Community Health Worker, should be of utility to rural health planners and managers in other countries.
Conversion of 2,6-diamino-9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)purine to acyclovir as catalyzed by adenosine deaminase

Abstract Adenosine deaminase (ADA) was partially purified from several sources using affinity chromatography. These enzymes have the capacity to catalyze the deamination of 2,6-diamino-9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)purine (A134U) to form the antiviral agent acyclovir [9-(2-hydroxyethoxy-methyl)guanine]. Their relative substrate efficiencies ( V max / K m ) with A134U (standardized to adenosine = 100) were: dog ADA, 0.092; human ADA, 0.015–0.029; rat ADA, 0.025; calf ADA, 0.016; and Escherichia coli ADA, 0.0003. In addition to having the lowest efficiency with A134U, the bacterial ADA was also distinguished by its lack of binding of the mammalian ADA inhibitor erythro-9-(2-hydroxy-3-nonyl)adenine and by its weak binding to the 9-( p -aminobenzyl)adenine-agarose affinity column. Four minor metabolites of A134U and acyclovir have been reported to be produced in the rat. These compounds are oxidized on either the C-8 position of the ring or the terminal carbon of the side chain. Neither acyclovir nor any of these metabolites produced significant inhibition of calf intestine ADA. The oxidized metabolites containing an N-6 amino group were extremely slow substrates of this enzyme.
Effect of botulinum toxin on trophic regulation of acetycholine receptors

THE distribution of acetylcholine [ACh] receptors in mammalian skeletal muscle is regulated to a large extent by motor nerves1. In innervated muscles, ACh receptors are localised almost exclusively at neuromuscular junctions, but after denervation there is a great increase of extrajunctional receptor density2–5. The trophic mechanisms by which motor nerves normally control extrajunctional ACh receptor density are not well understood. Although ACh transmission and the muscle usage it produces have been shown to play an important role6–11, it has also been suggested that unrelated factors (for example, substances carried by axonal transport) exert some trophic regulatory influence on extrajunctional ACh receptors12–14. Since more than one factor may participate in this regulation, it is important to evaluate the relative contributions of each in quantitative terms. We have therefore made a quantitative comparison of the effects of botulinum toxin and surgical denervation on ACh receptors. Botulinum toxin blocks quantal release of ACh at nerve terminals15 in a highly specific manner that is thought to involve the vesicle release mechanism16. An 125I-α-bungarotoxin binding technique was used for quantitative determination of ACh receptor density17. The results indicate that blockade of ACh transmission by botulinum toxin produces a partial denervation-like increase in extrajunctional ACh receptors, similar to, but somewhat greater than that seen after disuse alone17.
Independent venture capital, corporate venture capital, and the internationalisation intensity of technology-based portfolio firms

Firms that internationalise early in their lives share characteristics with those that receive venture capital. The relationship between receipt of venture capital and the international intensity of 1348 young technology firms is examined, including whether the source of capital, from independent venture capital firms, corporations or private sources, has an impact. The absence of venture capital is shown to be positively associated with increased internationalisation. While previous literature suggests differences in the value added of different sources of venture capital, the results indicate no such differences in their impact on international intensity.
Substrate changes associated with the chemistry of self-assembled monolayers on silicon.

Alkylsiloxane self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) are used in the semiconductor industry and, more recently, as proxies for organics adsorbed on airborne mineral dust and on buildings and construction materials. A number of methods have been used for removing the SAM from the substrate after reaction or use, particularly plasmas or piranha (H2SO4/H2O2) solution. However, when the substrates are reused to make new SAMs, the impact of the cleaning methods on the chemistry of subsequently formed SAMs on the surface is not known. Here we report atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared studies of changes in a silicon substrate upon repetitive deposition and removal of SAMs by these two methods. It is shown that a thicker layer of silicon oxide is formed, and the surface becomes irregular and roughened, particularly after the piranha treatment. This layer of silica impacts the structure of the SAMs attached to it and can serve as a reser...
Spatial and temporal patterns of macroscopic benthic primary producers in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron

Abstract We investigated spatial and temporal patterns in macroscopic benthic primary producer biomass, production, and composition in inner Saginaw Bay in 2009 and 2010. Charophytes and filamentous algae (FA) were relatively abundant, and vascular macrophytes were less common. The probability of benthic primary producer presence increased with the proportion of benthic substrate composed of rock. Most benthic primary producer biomass occurred at depths of 2–4 m, with very little biomass observed beyond 4 m deep. Charophyte and vascular macrophyte abundances displayed consistent patterns related to distance from the mouth of the Saginaw River. FA abundance also displayed such patterns, but they reversed between 2009 and 2010. Macrophytic benthic primary producer communities were generally dominated by charophytes. Three genera of vascular macrophytes, including Myriophyllum , were also observed. Filamentous algal communities were composed of a mixture of FA taxa. Ten FA genera were observed, including the red alga Compsopogon . Dominance of Compsopogon was related to low water clarity and low TP. Biomass-based benthic production estimates indicated that charophytes and FA strongly dominated macroscopic benthic production; production of vascular macrophytes was relatively low. The observed relationships of abundance and environmental conditions suggested regulation of benthic producer biomass by a shifting mosaic of substratum, nutrient, and light availabilities. The diverse nature of the benthic producer community could complicate understanding and management of excess benthic biomass and beach fouling in Saginaw Bay.
Modulation of neurotransmission by GPCRs is dependent upon the microarchitecture of the primed vesicle complex.

Gi/o-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) ubiquitously inhibit neurotransmission, principally via Gβγ, which acts via a number of possible effectors. GPCR effector specificity has traditionally been attributed to Gα, based on Gα's preferential effector targeting in vitro compared with Gβγ's promiscuous targeting of various effectors. In synapses, however, Gβγ clearly targets unique effectors in a receptor-dependent way to modulate synaptic transmission. It remains unknown whether Gβγ specificity in vivo is due to specific Gβγ isoform-receptor associations or to spatial separation of distinct Gβγ pathways through macromolecular interactions. We thus sought to determine how Gβγ signaling pathways within axons remain distinct from one another. In rat hippocampal CA1 axons, GABAB receptors (GABABRs) inhibit presynaptic Ca2+ entry, and we have now demonstrated that 5-HT1B receptors (5-HT1BRs) liberate Gβγ to interact with SNARE complex C terminals with no effect on Ca2+ entry. Both GABABRs and 5-HT1BRs inhibit Ca2+-evoked neurotransmitter release, but 5-HT1BRs have no effect on Sr2+-evoked release. Sr2+, unlike Ca2+, does not cause synaptotagmin to compete with Gβγ binding to SNARE complexes. 5-HT1BRs also fail to inhibit release following cleavage of the C terminus of the SNARE complex protein SNAP-25 with botulinum A toxin. Thus, GABABRs and 5-HT1BRs both localize to presynaptic terminals, but target distinct effectors. We demonstrate that disruption of SNARE complexes and vesicle priming with botulinum C toxin eliminates this selectivity, allowing 5-HT1BR inhibition of Ca2+ entry. We conclude that receptor-effector specificity requires a microarchitecture provided by the SNARE complex during vesicle priming.
The relationship of educational preparation, autonomy, and critical thinking to nursing job satisfaction.

Background This descriptive correlational study explored factors influencing job satisfaction in nursing. Relationships between educational preparation, autonomy, and critical thinking and job satisfaction were examined. Method A convenience sample of 140 registered nurses was drawn from medical-surgical, management, and home health nursing specialties. The nurses were asked to complete the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire. Relationships between variables were analyzed to determine which explained the most variance in job satisfaction. Results Results indicated significant positive correlations between total job satisfaction and perceived autonomy, critical thinking, educational preparation, and job satisfiers. Significant negative correlations between job dissatisfiers and total job satisfaction were also found. Conclusions Understanding nursing job satisfaction through critical thinking, educational level, and autonomy is the key to staff retention. Further research focusing on increasing these satisfiers is needed.
Multiplex Fabry–Perot interferometer: I. Theory

The Multiplex Fabry–Perot Interferometer (MFPI) is a unique instrument, incorporating the wide spectral-bandwidth capability of the Michelson interferometer with the small size and high resolution of the Fabry–Perot interferometer. The MFPI is, structurally, a standard Fabry–Perot in which the scanning distance is allowed to be very large, of the order of centimeters. The signal recorded through this distance is Fourier transformed as would be the interferogram produced by a Michelson interferometer. The result is a spectrum containing very high-resolution information over a moderately large optical bandwidth. The MFPI is much smaller than a Michelson producing the same resolution and covers a much broader bandwidth than a Fabry–Perot used in the usual fashion. We present a basic description of the operating theory for the MFPI in terms familiar to the Michelson spectroscopist.
A new technique for making cortical incisions with minimal damage to cerebral tissue.

Abstract A new technique is described that minimizes the damage to neural tissues caused by the cortical incisions that must be made when operating on intracerebral or intraventricular lesions. Symmetric cortical incisions were made bilaterally in the same region of the middle suprasylvian gyrus in six dogs. Blunt dissection was performed on the right side. A new technique, which utilizes a balloon catheter, was employed on the left side. A greater hemiparesis was observed on the left side in all dogs. There was a mild but definite hemiparesis on the right side in four dogs, which improved within 2–3 days postoperatively. The dogs were killed on the sixth postoperative day. The Fink-Heimer technique for selective staining of degenerating axons and their terminal boutons was used to determine the extent of neuronal damage. Histologic studies support clinical observations in the experimental animal that the neural damage resulting from cortical incision is significantly decreased when the balloon catheter technique is applied.
Material rate dependence and mesh sensitivity in localization problems

Abstract The role of material rate dependence in setting the character of governing equations is illustrated in the context of a simple one-dimensional problem. For rate-dependent solids, the incremental equilibrium equations for quasi-static problems remain elliptic and wave speeds for dynamic problems remain real, even in the presence of strain-softening. The pathological mesh sensitivity associated with numerical solutions of localization problems for rate-independent solids is eliminated. In effect, material rate dependence implicity introduces a length scale into the governing equations, although the constitutive description does not contain a parameter with the dimensions of length. Numerical results are presented that illustrate the localization behavior of slightly rate-dependent solids under both quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions.
Two-Variable Separation Logic and Its Inner Circle

Separation logic is a well-known assertion language for Hoare-style proof systems. We show that first-order separation logic with a unique record field restricted to two quantified variables and no program variables is undecidable. This is among the smallest fragments of separation logic known to be undecidable, and this contrasts with the decidability of two-variable first-order logic. We also investigate its restriction by dropping the magic wand connective, known to be decidable with nonelementary complexity, and we show that the satisfiability problem with only two quantified variables is not yet elementary recursive. Furthermore, we establish insightful and concrete relationships between two-variable separation logic and propositional interval temporal logic (PITL), data logics, and modal logics, providing an inner circle of closely related logics.