cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intraseasonal Periodicities in Indian Rainfall

Abstract Spectral analysis of a 70-year (1901–70) record of daily precipitation from 3700 stations in the country of India is carried out to search for periodicities on subseasonal time scales during the summer monsoon. Two statistically significant spectral peaks are found. A 40–50 day spectral peak corresponding to the Madden-Julian Oscillation is found over most of the portion of India south of 23°N. The phase of the oscillation is such that the precipitation maximum appears first over the relatively dry southeastern portion of the peninsula. Ten to 12 days later the precipitation peaks simultaneously all along the coast west of the Western Ghats and along a line running across India between 20° and 25°N. The precipitation maximum then spreads slowly northward and loses significance. Cross-spectral analysis shows strong coherence between the precipitation patterns and wind oscillations. The zonal wind oscillations at 850 and 200 mb am about 180 degrees out-of-phase equatorward of about 20°N, but in-pha...
Catheter ablation of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia

Abstract Objectives. This study evaluates 1) the safety and efficacy of catheter delivery of radiofrequency current to eliminate sustained sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia; 2) the incident of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia in the current group of patients undergoing electrophysiologic study for paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia; and 3) the association of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia with other tachyarrhythmias. Background. Sustained sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia is an uncommon cause of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia that is reported to occur infrequently to conjunction with other arrhythmias. Although pharmacologic and surgical therapies are available, there is limited information with regard to catheter ablation of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia. Methods. Ten patients with sustained sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia underwent electrophysiologic study and radiofrequency current ablation. Patients were followed up for 9.2 ± 6.0 months. Results. Of 343 consecutive patients referred for electrophysiotogic evaluation of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, 11 (3.2%) wert found to have inducible sustained sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia. Nine of the 11 patients had other associated arrhythmias, including atrioventricular (AY) node reentrant tachycardia (6 patients), AV reciprocating tachycardia (2 patients), ectopic atrial tachycardia (2 patients) and bundle branch reentrant tachycardia (1 patient). In 10 patients, direct ablation of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia was attempted and was successful in all (confidence interval for failure 0–0.26).Sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia was eliminated with a median of four radiofrequency current application (range 1 to 10) at 20 to 30 W. Successful ablation site characteristics during sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia included 1) atrial activation ≥35 ms (mean 44 ± 8 ms) before the onset of the surface P wave, 2) atrial activation ≥20 ms (mean 28 ± 6 ms) before the onset of high right atrial activation, and 3) significantly prolonged and fractionated electrograms (mean duration 87 ± 21 ms). No complications were encountered, and there have been no recurrences of sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia. Conclusions. Sinoatrial node reentrant tachycardia may be effectively and safely treated with radiofrequency current ablation at the site of earliest atrial activation.
A Generic problem with purely metric formulations of MOND

We give a simple argument to show that no purely metric-based, relativistic formulation of Milgrom's Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) whose energy functional is stable (in the sense of being quadratic in perturbations) can be consistent with the observed amount of gravitational lensing from galaxies. An important part of the argument is the fact that reproducing the MOND force law requires any completely stable, metric-based theory of gravity to become conformally invariant in the weak field limit. We discuss the prospects for a formulation with a very weak instability.
Synchrotron x-ray study of the modulated lamellar phase P β ’ in the lecithin-water system

The results of a high-resolution, synchrotron x-ray powder diffraction study of lattice constants in the ${P}_{\ensuremath{\beta}\mathcal{'}}$ (``rippled'') phase of lecithin-water multilamellar mixtures are given. The variation with water volume fraction ${\ensuremath{\varphi}}_{w}$ and hydrocarbon chain length ${N}_{c}$ of the modulation wave vector ${Q}_{r}$ suggests that membrane curvature and hydration interactions between membranes play a significant role in the modulation. The dependence of the membrane thickness and area per head group on ${N}_{c}$ indicates that the conformation of hydrocarbon chains is predominantly solidlike. The appearance of significant intensity in higher harmonics of the modulation wave vector rules out simple (e.g., sinusoidal or triangular) membrane density modulations. The results are consistent with a Lifshitz phenomenological model for lamellar phases of interacting membranes proposed by Goldstein and Liebler [Phys. Rev. Lett. 61, 2213 (1988)]. The phase behavior predicted by the model includes a multicritical point called the Lifshitz point where the wavelength of the modulation diverges. The experimental results indicate that this multicritical point lies in the vicinity of ${N}_{c}$=9 and ${\ensuremath{\varphi}}_{w}$=0.18.
Content-Based 3-D Mosaics for Representing Videos of Dynamic Urban Scenes

We propose a content-based 3-D mosaic (CB3M) representation for long video sequences of 3-D and dynamic urban scenes captured by a camera on a mobile platform. In the first phase, a set of parallel-perspective (pushbroom) mosaics with varying viewing directions is generated to capture both the 3-D and dynamic aspects of the scene under the camera coverage. In the second phase, a segmentation-based stereo matching algorithm is applied to extract parametric representations of the color, structure and motion of the dynamic and/or 3-D objects in urban scenes, where a lot of planar surfaces exist. Multiple pairs of stereo mosaics are used for facilitating reliable stereo matching, occlusion handling, accurate 3-D reconstruction, and robust moving target detection. CB3M is a highly compressed visual representation for a dynamic 3-D scene, and has object contents of both 3-D and motion information. Experimental results are given for various real video sequences of large-scale 3-D scenes.
A view in the mirror - Or through the looking glass

The development of optical telescopes from the age of astrology to those of today and the future is discussed. The rationales for changes in the design of telescopes during this time are explored. The cost drivers, and how to reduce them, are also discussed.
Wavelet-based methods in Global Positioning System signal tracking

The current Global Positioning System signal tracking techniques are vulnerable to bit transitions in the baseband navigation signal. We present new signal tracking techniques as lock discriminators in carrier frequency and code delay domains derived within the framework of wavelet theory that are robust to these bit transitions. We then present the performance analysis of the proposed lock discriminators comparatively with currently used techniques on real data.
Therapeutic Plasma Concentrations of Epsilon Aminocaproic Acid and Tranexamic Acid in Horses

Background Antifibrinolytic drugs such as epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) and tranexamic acid (TEA) are used to treat various bleeding disorders in horses. Although horses are hypofibrinolytic compared to humans, dosing schemes have been derived from pharmacokinetic studies targeting plasma concentrations in humans. Hypothesis/Objectives We hypothesized therapeutic plasma concentrations of antifibrinolytic drugs in horses would be significantly lower than in humans. Our objective was to use thromboleastography (TEG) and an in vitro model of hyperfibrinolysis to predict therapeutic concentrations of EACA and TEA in horses and humans. Animals Citrated plasma collected from 24 random source clinically healthy research horses. Commercial pooled human citrated plasma with normal coagulation parameters was purchased. Methods Minimum tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) concentration to induce complete fibrinolysis within 10 minutes was determined using serial dilutions of tPA in equine plasma. Results used to create an in vitro hyperfibrinolysis model with equine and human citrated plasma, and the minimum concentrations of EACA and TEA required to completely inhibit fibrinolysis for 30 minutes (estimated therapeutic concentrations) determined using serial dilutions of the drugs. Results Estimated therapeutic concentrations of EACA and TEA were significantly lower in horses (5.82; 95% CI 3.77–7.86 μg/mL and 0.512; 95% CI 0.277–0.748 μg/mL) than in humans (113.2; 95% CI 95.8–130.6 μg/mL and 11.4; 95% CI 8.62–14.1 μg/mL). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Current dosing schemes for EACA and TEA in horses may be as much as 20× higher than necessary, potentially increasing cost of treatment and risk of adverse effects.
The effect of substance use on the delinquent behaviour of adolescents

Adolescents who drink or smoke marijuana are more likely to engage in delinquent activities than their peers who do not use substances, but it is not clear whether this association is causal or driven by other difficult-to-measure underlying factors such as an individual's discount rate. Using several empirical strategies that are designed to control for the influence of unobservables, we explore the relationship between substance use and four outcomes: fighting, property-destruction, theft, and running away. Our results suggest that, for males, the positive association between substance-use and these outcomes is probably spurious. In contrast, there is some evidence that female substance use may be causally related to destroying property, theft, and running away. These results are of importance to parents and policymakers who wish to reduce the incidence of delinquent behaviour of adolescents.
Regulation of phenotype in somatic cell hybrids derived by fusion of teratocarcinoma cell lines with normal or tumor-derived mouse cells.

Abstract The phenotypes of somatic cell hybrids between murine embryonal carcinoma cell lines, F9 BrdU 7C12 and PCC4 aza 1, and normal murine splenic lymphocytes or thymoma-derived cell lines were compared. Analysis of morphology in vivo and in vitro of cell surface markers and of the karyotype of these cloned hybrid cells did not reveal any simple mechanism for the regulation of the phenotype of such hybrids. Hybrids of either the embryonal carcinoma cell phenotype or of a differentiated morphology (resembling neither parental cell) but not of lymphoid morphology can be derived from fusions of this type. Moreover, transition from one phenotype to the other (ECC → differentiated cell and differentiated cell → ECC) can be found with passage of clonally derived hybrid cell lines. Coordinate control of the phenotypic markers of the state of differentiation in these hybrid cells was found.
Altered rate of synthesis of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors: effects of homologous hormone appear independent of extracellular calcium.

Steady state levels of plasma membrane receptors (measured in radioligand assays) result from processes that contribute to the production of receptors (synthesis, recycling, and unmasking) as well as those that contribute to the loss of receptors (degradation, internalization, and inactivation). Accordingly, we have previously adapted the density shift technique to determine the contribution due to synthesis of GnRH receptors. In the present study we have evaluated the ability of homologous hormone to affect the rate of synthesis of these receptors. Additionally, because of its role in other actions of the releasing hormone, the requirement for extracellular Ca2+ to mediate the effects of GnRH was assessed. Cultures of pituitary cells, prepared from female weanling rats, were used for all studies. After treatment with GnRH, a GnRH antagonist, or the calcium ionophore A23187, with or without EGTA (a calcium chelator), cells were further cultured for up to 24 h in medium containing either dense or normal am...
Trading Gains for Control: International Trade Forums and Japanese Economic Diplomacy

The explosive proliferation of trade forums poses fundamental questions about why states forum-shop as they pursue liberalization. We advance a novel argument linking the institutional design of international trade forums directly to domestic politics. If industrialized democratic states have to appease conflicting forces in the domestic political marketplace as economic liberalization proceeds apace, they should prioritize forums that allow them to exert greater control over the pace and scope of liberalization. This prioritization is influenced by a tradeoff between two critical dimensions that combine differently across all international trade forums: the gains dimension, which determines the extent to which states can increase economic welfare based on the forum's rules; and the control dimension, which determines the extent to which they have power to set the forum's rules in line with their political concerns. We use the case of Japan to demonstrate the importance of the gains-control tradeoff .
Pulp response to cavity preparation

Abstract Four methods of cavity preparation were tested for evidence of pulp injury. Specimens were taken at 1, 7, and 28 days. Examination of the pulps established that the techniques described were safe as measured by accepted standards. Dry intermittent application of rotary instruments at 5,000 r.p.m., continuous application at 24,000 r.p.m., with a water stream coolant, airbrasive, and ultrasonic techniques are biologically acceptable methods as measured by pulpal response.
Inference of hidden variables in systems of differential equations with genetic programming

The data-driven modeling of dynamical systems is an important scientific activity, and many studies have applied genetic programming (GP) to the task of automatically constructing such models in the form of systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). These previous studies assumed that data measurements were available for all variables in the system, whereas in real-world settings, it is typically the case that one or more variables are unmeasured or "hidden." Here, we investigate the prospect of automatically constructing ODE models of dynamical systems from time series data with GP in the presence of hidden variables. Several examples with both synthetic and physical systems demonstrate the unique challenges of this problem and the circumstances under which it is possible to reverse-engineer both the form and parameters of ODE models with hidden variables.
Age- and sex-dependent spring arrival dates of Eastern Kingbirds

Among migratory passerines, the first birds to arrive on the breeding grounds are usually older males. Early arrival by older birds may be driven by experience, age-dependent changes in body condition, age dependent access to resources during the nonbreeding period, or latitudinal segregation by age. Males may arrive earlier than females (protandry) because males maintain better condition due to greater access to resources during the winter, or because selection favors early arriving males that acquire the best territories or experience enhanced mating opportunities. During a 4-yr study (2004-2007) in Oregon, we found that older Eastern Kingbirds ( Tyrannus tyrannus), regardless of sex, arrived nearly a week before younger birds and that males arrived about 5 d before females. Age- and sex-dependent arrival dates do not appear to be related to differences in body condition, social dominance in winter, or latitudinal segregation, and protandry is unrelated to the ability of early-arriving males to acquire high-quality territories. Instead, we propose that young birds have less to gain from early arrival because of their probable inability to displace experienced birds from prime territories and that protandry evolved due to enhanced mating opportunities for early arriving males that arise from the high rates of extra-pair matings in our population of Eastern Kingbirds.
Oral glucose tolerance testing in children with cystic fibrosis

Ode KL, Frohnert B, Laguna T, Phillips J, Holme B, Regelmann W, Thomas W, Moran A. Oral glucose tolerance testing in children with cystic fibrosis. Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) related diabetes is the most common comorbidity in persons with CF. International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) guidelines recommend annual oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT) screening starting at age 10. The OGTT might be recommended in younger children if, as in adults, it provided clinically relevant prognostic information. A database review was performed to determine whether OGTT findings in children with CF predict subsequent clinical course. Methods: A retrospective matched-pair cohort study was based on OGTTs performed during 1998–2003. Children aged 6–9 were classified as having normal glucose tolerance (NGT) or abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT). Children with AGT were matched by age and gender to those with NGT. Clinical status was assessed at baseline and 5 yr later. In a separate investigation, diabetes and prior AGT status of children aged 10–18 were used to assess predictions derived from the cohort study. Results: In 1998–2003, 39 of 94 children had AGT. Of these, 31 had sufficient follow-up data to be included. Both at baseline and 5 yr later there was no significant difference in height, weight, body mass index (BMI) or lung function between AGT and NGT. Diabetes developed in 13 AGT (42%) and one NGT (3%) [odds ratio (OR) 11, p = 0.0009]. Age of diabetes onset was 12 ± 1 yr in boys and 11 ± 1 yr in girls, compared to approximately 23 yr in the general CF population. Fifteen current children age 10–18 who had AGT before age 10 have diabetes, close to the prediction of 19. Conclusions: AGT in children with CF age 6–9 yr identifies those at high risk for progression to early onset diabetes.
The chemistry of Offatts Bayou, Texas: A seasonally highly sulfidic basin

Offatts Bayou basin was created by use of this are as a borrow pit for landfill by the city of Galveston, Texas, in the first half of this century. Restricted exchange of water with the adjacent West Bay results in this basin changing, on a seasonal time scale, between oxic winter and highly sulfidic summer (greater than 500 μM ΣH2S) bottom water conditions. It is, therefore, a “natural laboratory” for the investigation of the behavior of toxic metals in an estuarine environment where redox conditions undergo major variations. Here we report the first study of the chemistry of Offatts Bayou’s waters and sediment-associated trace metals. The high concentrations of dissolved sulfide in bottom water during summer cause a loss of macrofauna from most of the water deeper than about 4 m and the bottom of the basin. The potential exists for major mortality of organisms living in the oxic surface waters if rapid mixing of waters were to occur during the summer. Reactions of toxic metals with sulfides are probably the dominant influence on their potential bioavailability in this type of environment, as evidenced by large seasonal changes in concentrations of sedimentary sulfide minerals and associated trace metals. The trace metals As, Cu, and Hg are dominantly found in the pyrite phase (greater than 75% pyritization), Ag and Mn are moderately pyritized (40% to 60%), and Zn is not strongly associated with pyrite (less than 20% pyritization).
A methodology to use simulation at every stage of a hybrid vehicle design

Accurate high level system simulation is difficult to obtain without first capturing the behavior of the individual components through physical testing and measurements. Early in the design phase the individual components have yet to be built and tested, thus compromising the accuracy of the simulation. In this early period of the design stage, the component models are created by relying solely on their constitutive relationships. Furthermore, it is difficult to incorporate physical effects such as spatial harmonic and nonlinearities into such constitutive based models. Once the design stage reaches the component level, there exists a number of physics simulators for every discipline involved: thermal, mechanical, electromagnetism and fluid dynamics; these simulators, based on numerical methods, provide high fidelity detailed information about the component. However, having an accurate multi-physics virtual model of a system at the 3D level and at the system 0D level remains a challenge. This paper will introduce a methodology to apply simulation at every step of the design cycle, from the early functional design stage to the detailed component optimization to the verification stage of the vehicle dynamics. It involves system simulation, component level multiphysics analysis using numerical methods, Reduce Order Models techniques and embedded software import. The example used to demonstrate this is the fuel consumption analysis of a hybrid electric vehicle.
Exploring the Potential Ergogenic Effects of Glycerol Hyperhydration

During athletic competition or recreational pursuits, a body's hydration level can become compromised, resulting in a decrement in performance. Glycerol (1,2,3-propanetriol) has been used to induce hyperhydration in an attempt to offset the deleterious effects of dehydration. When glycerol is consumed orally, it is rapidly absorbed primarily in the small intestine. It is reported to be evenly distributed among all fluid compartments, with the exception of the cerebral spinal fluid and aqueous humour, and promotes hyperhydration by inducing an osmotic gradient. Through an increase in the kidney's medullary concentration gradient, water absorption in the nephron is enhanced. When glycerol is consumed, the plasma glycerol concentration increases in proportion to the dose ingested, which easily exceeds the glycerol saturation point resulting in urinary glycerol excretion. Thus, without supplemental glycerol ingestion, there will be a decrease in the osmotic gradient resulting in a loss of hyperhydration. The ergogenic nature of glycerol has been investigated as to its effect on fluid retention, thermoregulation, cardiovascular responses and performance. While many studies provide evidence of hyperhydration, others do not. Only two studies reviewed showed a thermoregulatory advantage. Furthermore, the preponderance of evidence neither weighed for or against cardiovascular or performance advantages. What makes one study provide favourable results while another study does not is unclear. Possible explanations may include subject characteristics, environmental factors, research design, whether fluids with or without glycerol were given during exercise, the rate at which fluids are initially given to induce hyperhydration, the time between peak hyperhydration/peak plasma glycerol concentration and the trial (i.e. exercise), the glycerol dose (i.e. 1.0 g/kg body mass) and what it is based upon, the percentage glycerol solution (i.e. 5%, 20%), the variation of time between the end of the hydration protocol and the beginning of exercise, or perhaps the intensity of exercise (fixed, variable, percentage maximum oxygen uptake). What is clear is that glycerol has the capacity to enhance fluid retention. In so doing, glycerol hyperhydration may be a logistically preferred method due to concomitant decrease in urine output and free-water clearance, which may give a performance advantage by offsetting dehydration. Future research should focus on maintaining plasma glycerol concentrations at levels necessary to maintain osmotic forces required to support continued hyperhydration. Potential benefits of glycerol should be further explored to identify the circumstances or factors that may contribute to an ergogenic effect.
Photodissociation dynamics of the I2− anion using femtosecond photoelectron spectroscopy

Abstract The photodissociation dynamics of the I 2 − anion have been studied in real-time using femtosecond photoelectron spectroscopy. In this experiment, I 2 − is excited to a dissociative electronic state with an ultrafast pump pulse, and the photoelectron spectrum of the dissociating anion is measured by photodetachment with a second, ultrafast probe pulse. The variation of the photoelectron spectrum with delay time enables one to monitor the dissociating anion from the initial Franck-Condon region of excitation out to the asymptotic region. Dissociation occurs on a time scale of 100 fs. The results are compared with quantum mechanical simulations using previously published potential energy curves for I 2 − .
Diagnosis of Mediastinal Tumors: X-ray Manifestations of Redundant Pericardial Fat

An unusual finding of a patient with a large pad of pericardial fat, developed over a brief period, masquerading as a large aneurysm of the ascending aorta or carcinoma of the lung with mediastinal extension is presented. Extensive investigative steps to arrive at a specific diagnosis were carried out to avoid thoracotomy. Thoracotomy was mandatory for correct diagnosis and management of this patient.
Misconceptions of Astronomical Distances

Previous empirical studies using multiple‐choice procedures have suggested that there are misconceptions about the scale of astronomical distances. The present study provides a quantitative estimate of the nature of this misconception among US university students by asking them, in an open‐ended response format, to make estimates of the distances from the Earth to the Moon, to the Sun, to the nearest star, and to the nearest galaxy. The 83 participants were asked to give their estimates on a scale with the Earth the size of a baseball, using a familiar local landmark for its position, and asked to indicate the appropriate location of the other astronomical objects on this scale. These psychological estimates were then compared to the actual physical distances. The data showed that while there is great variation, a general pattern emerged that US undergraduate participants overestimated the distance from the Earth to the Moon, moderately underestimated the distance from the Earth to the Sun, and dramatical...
Evaluating a Behaviorally Based Intervention to Improve Client Retention in Therapeutic Community Treatment for Drug Dependency

This is the first practice research study to examine the feasibility of increasing the retention rate for a therapeutic community program for drug abusers. The effects of a short-term, cognitive- behavioral intervention were analyzed by use of a quasi-experimental, nonequivalent control group design involving 22 new admissions. The Beck Depression Inventory and Problem-Solving Inventory were administered in pretest-posttest format, with the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire administered at posttreatment. Results revealed a retention rate of 100% for the treatment group, compared to 27% for the untreated group, at 60 days. The results are discussed in terms of their applications to social work practice.
Avian response to timber harvesting applied experimentally to manage Cerulean Warbler breeding populations

Abstract Timber harvesting has been proposed as a management tool to enhance breeding habitat for the Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea), a declining Neotropical–Nearctic migratory songbird that nests in the canopy of mature eastern deciduous forests. To evaluate how this single-species management focus might fit within an ecologically based management approach for multiple forest birds, we performed a manipulative experiment using four treatments (three intensities of timber harvests and an unharvested control) at each of seven study areas within the core Cerulean Warbler breeding range. We collected pre-harvest (one year) and post-harvest (four years) data on the territory density of Cerulean Warblers and six additional focal species, avian community relative abundance, and several key habitat variables. We evaluated the avian and habitat responses across the 3–32 m2 ha−1 residual basal area (RBA) range of the treatments. Cerulean Warbler territory density peaked with medium RBA (∼16 m2 ha−1). In contrast, territory densities of the other focal species were negatively related to RBA (e.g., Hooded Warbler [Setophaga citrina]), were positively related to RBA (e.g., Ovenbird [Seiurus aurocapilla]), or were not sensitive to this measure (Scarlet Tanager [Piranga olivacea]). Some species (e.g., Hooded Warbler) increased with time post-treatment and were likely tied to a developing understory, whereas declines (e.g., Ovenbird) were immediate. Relative abundance responses of additional species were consistent with the territory density responses of the focal species. Across the RBA gradient, greatest separation in the avian community was between early successional forest species (e.g., Yellow-breasted Chat [Icteria virens]) and closed-canopy mature forest species (e.g., Ovenbird), with the Cerulean Warbler and other species located intermediate to these two extremes. Overall, our results suggest that harvests within 10–20 m2 ha−1 RBA yield the largest increases in Cerulean Warblers, benefit additional disturbance-dependent species, and may retain closed-canopy species but at reduced levels. Harvests outside the optimum RBA range for Cerulean Warblers can support bird assemblages specifically associated with early or late (closed-canopy) successional stages.
Factors within Multidimensional Perfectionism Scales: Complexity of relationships with Self-Esteem, Narcissism, Self-Control, and Self-Criticism

Each subscale of the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (Hewitt & Flett, 1991) was factor analyzed in an attempt to determine whether perfectionism is best described as a categorical or as a dimensional construct. Relationships with Self-Esteem, Narcissism, Self-Control, and Self-Criticism confirmed the existence of relatively more adaptive and maladaptive elements within each subscale. Partial correlations looking at the adaptive while controlling for the maladaptive elements (and vice versa) yielded even clearer contrasts between the two forms of perfectionism. Self-Criticism was especially important in defining maladaptive perfectionism, whereas adaptive perfectionism reflected more positive forms of Self-Esteem regulation. These data supported a dimensional interpretation of perfectionism.
The use of strategic deception in relationships

Purpose – The primary purpose of this research is to explore the use of strategic deception as adopted by call centers endeavoring to establish relationships with consumers.Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative interviews, over the telephone and in person, were conducted with call center employees located in India.Findings – The findings reveal various types of strategic deception occurring in call centers. Discoveries imply that companies are training their employees to deceive consumers in order to win their trust and cooperation.Research limitations/implications – To improve generalization of the findings, future research should include call centers located in other parts of the world and determine if other types of companies use deception in any way to build trust and perceived similarity with their customers. The paper offers an overarching typology to guide future research in this area.Practical implications – In this research a framework is provided by which practitioners might judge the desira...
The role of facilitated diffusion in oxygen transport by cell-free hemoglobins: implications for the design of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers.

Abstract We compared rates of oxygen transport in an in vitro capillary system using red blood cells (RBCs) and cell-free hemoglobins. The axial P o 2 drop down the capillary was calculated using finite-element analysis. RBCs, unmodified hemoglobin (HbA0), cross-linked hemoglobin (αα-Hb) and hemoglobin conjugated to polyethylene-glycol (PEG-Hb) were evaluated. According to their fractional saturation curves, PEG-Hb showed the least desaturation down the capillary, which most closely matched the RBCs; HbA0 and αα-Hb showed much greater desaturation. A lumped diffusion parameter, K*, was calculated based on the Fick diffusion equation with a term for facilitated diffusion. The overall rates of oxygen transfer are consistent with hemoglobin diffusion rates according to the Stokes–Einstein Law and with previously measured blood pressure responses in rats. This study provides a conceptual framework for the design of a ‘blood substitute’ based on mimicking O2 transport by RBCs to prevent autoregulatory changes in blood flow and pressure.
Topical Imiquimod has Therapeutic and Immunomodulatory Effects Against Intracranial Tumors

Topical imiquimod cream (trade name, Aldara) is a toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 agonist that is approved for the treatment of cutaneous tumors. Aldara is also employed as a vaccine adjuvant in clinical trials in patients with glioma and other tumors. The main mechanism of action ascribed to Aldara has been the local activation of TLR7+ cells near the application site. Here we report the unexpected finding that Aldara has therapeutic and immunomodulatory activity as a single agent in mice bearing intracranial tumors. Repeated administration of Aldara onto the skin significantly increased the survival of mice bearing intracranial GL261 glioma and EMT6 breast carcinoma. Aldara treatment was associated with a reduction in the number CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) in the blood and brain tumor site. Mice treated with Aldara exhibited a generalized lymphopenia in the blood amidst an increase in brain tumor infiltrating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and dendritic cells. Brain infiltrating CD8+ T cells were tumor-reactive as demonstrated by degranulation and interferon gamma secretion in a GL261-dependent manner. Additionally, soluble imiquimod directly inhibited the proliferation of GL261 cells in a TLR7-independent manner. This is the first report demonstrating that topical application of imiquimod can enhance T cell responses to intracranial tumors as a single agent. The results must be interpreted with caution considering anatomical and biological differences between mice and humans. Nevertheless, Aldara that is being used as a vaccine adjuvant in clinical trials may have direct anti-tumor effects that are independent of exogenous antigen. Further studies in humans are warranted.
The phase and volumetric relations in the helium—n-butane system: Part I. Phase and volumetric behavior of mixtures of low helium concentration

The P-V-T-x phase relations of helium—n-butane system were measured in the region of low helium content (up to 10.4 mole % helium). The system exhibits the gas-gas equilibrium originally predicted by Kamerlingh-Onnes and Keesom. The term gas-gas equilibrium is applied because the critical temperatures of the mixtures are higher than the critical temperature of either component. This behavior is quite unlike that observed in most binary systems, in which the critical temperature of the mixtures lie between those of the pure compounds. As a consequence of the shape of the critical locus curve, the system exhibits isothermal retrograde condensation of the second kind.
The anatomy of mandibular anesthesia: Review and analysis

Abstract The high incidence of successful mandibular anesthesia without complications when a nerve-blocking drug was deposited at the lateral aspect of the mandibular neck was analyzed from anatomic dissections. The anatomy of the pterygomandibular space supported the successful results reported by several clinicians for the mandibular neck injection site. The generally held concept that the drug should be deposited in close approximation to the inferior alveolar, lingual, and buccal nerves for successful mandibular anesthesia does not appear to be a requirement for the mandibular neck injection site.
Non-invasive determination of shock wave pressure generated by optical breakdown

Shock waves generated by a laser-induced plasma were investigated using a pump-and-probe technique. Both 7-ns and 40-ps laser pulses at 1.06 μm were employed to initiate breakdown in water. Two He-Ne laser beams were used as a velocity probe, allowing the accurate measurement of the shock velocity around the plasma. The maximum shock pressure was determined from the measured shock velocities, the jump condition and the equation of state for water. The conservation of the total momentum of the shock front was used to derive expressions for the shock velocity, particle velocity and shock pressure vs. the distance (r) from the center of the plasma. For a shock wave of spherical symmetry, the shock pressure is proportional to 1/r2. Our work shows that the expanding plasma initially induces a shock wave; the shock wave dissipates rapidly becoming an acoustic wave within 300–500 μm.
Diastolic function of the heart in clinical cardiology.

• During the last six years, there has been increased interest In the detection of abnormalities of left ventricular diastolic function in patients with heart disease. Before 1981, most studies on diastolic function were performed in the catheter laboratory using invasive techniques and complex methods. Recently, radionuclide angiograms and Doppler echocardiography have been employed to measure the dynamics of filling In normal individuals and in patients with heart disease. These methods are noninvasive, easy to perform, accurate, and reproducible. It is now clear that diastolic function may be altered globally and regionally, at rest and perhaps during exercise, in many patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Interestingly, these diastolic abnormalities may even appear before systolic abnormalities are identified in these patients. Thus, diastolic abnormalities may permit assessment of presence of disease early In its evolution. Whether detection and quantitation of diastolic abnormalities will permit grading of disease severity or evaluation of therapeutic efficacy remains an important research question. At the present time, it appears that the decision to employ either radionuclide angiography or Doppler echocardiography for the assessment of diastolic abnormalities will depend on the local expertise to carry out the investigation. Both diagnostic modalities require standardization of accuracy and reproducibility with proper selection of control values from the appropriate populations of normal individuals. It is also Important to remember that left ventricular diastolic abnormalities have to be identified after the elimination of the confounding influence of variables such as ejection fraction, heart rate, age, and preload (end-diastolic volume). Automation of the derivation of indexes of diastolic filling should provide an objective assessment of the dynamics of left ventricular filling. Although the value of measurement of diastolic filling in the individual patient remains controversial, we believe that the practice of cardiology is incomplete without consideration of the second half of cardiac function. ( Arch Intern Med 1988;148:99-109)
A Field Study of the Influence of Situational Constraints Leader-Member Exchange, and Goal Commitment on Performance

This study examined the relationships between situational constraints, leader-member exchange, goal commitment, and performance in a retail organization. Both situational constraints and leader-mem...
The Dragon and the Elephant: Chinese-Indian Relations in the 21st Century

Although China and India have enjoyed 10 years of progress in bilateral relations, a series of challenges ahead remain daunting. How the world's most populous and fastest-growing states handle them will be critical for regional and global peace and prosperity in the coming years.
Osmoregulation and epithelial permeability in two euryhaline bivalve molluscs: Mya arenaria and Geukensia demissa

Abstract Mya arenaria (subclass Heterodonta) survives for at least 5 wk in media of 100–1000 mOsm; Geukensia demissa (subclass Pteriomorphia) survives in media of 50–1000 mOsm. Tissue hydration does not increase either in G. demissa or in M. arenaria acclimated to diluted seawater (SW). The concentrations of Na + , K + , Mg 2+ , and Cl − in the blood of G. demissa conform to ambient over the entire salinity range. The concentration of Ca 2+ in the blood of animals acclimated to media of ≤200 mOsm is ≈2.5 mM. Blood concentrations of Na + , Mg 2+ , and Cl − largely conform to ambient in M. arenaria . In M. arenaria acclimated to SW of >200 mOsm, blood Ca 2+ conforms to ambient, but is significantly hyperionic in animals acclimated to 50 mOsmSW. The diffusional water, Na + , and Cl − permeabilities of isolated mantle tissue from Mya acclimated to 1000 mOsm SW are, respectively, 3.8 × 10 −4 , 5.7 × 10 −5 , and 2.7 × 10 −5 cm·s −1 . The permeabilities of the mantle of G. demissa acclimated to 1000 mOsm SW are: H 2 O, 1.3 × 10 −4 , Na + , 4.0 × 10 −5 , Cl − , 2.9 × 10 −5 cm·s −1 . There is no consistent trend of a decrease in epithelial permeability in animals acclimated to dilute SW. The hypercalcemia that occurs in Mya acclimated to dilute SW also occures in other brackish water heterodontid clams. This response does not occur in brackish water pteriomorph bivalves. The relatively low water permeability of Geukensia is an adaptation to the high intertidal habitats preferred by this species. Mya , which has a higher permeability to water, is protected from severe desiccation stress by its deep burrowing habit.
Meaning, truth, and information: prolegomena to a theory

– This paper aims to examine the relationships between meaning and truth as they may contribute to a constitutive definition of information. The thesis is primarily that “information” cannot be defined unless within the context of meaning and truth, and that any theory based on, or related to, information is not possible without the foundational definition., – A review of related literatures and an arrangement of frameworks forms the design of this conceptual proposal., – While other definitions of information have been presented, the present one integrates meaning and truth in ways that others do not. The thoroughgoing semantic examination provides a starting‐point for a much deeper analysis of the integral role that language plays in the formation of any theory related to information. Truth tends not to be spoken of a great deal in information science; the definitional positioning of truth adds to a more complete definition and basis for theory., – This paper proposes a new definitional and theoretical construct for information.
Gene Cloning and Transfer in Dairy Lactococci

Abstract Our knowledge of the microbiology, genetics, and plasmid biology of dairy lactococci is advancing rapidly. Research is unraveling the molecular mechanisms of gene transfer, control, and expression. The development of gene cloning and gene transfer systems is discussed with special attention to current research and applications.
Cocaethylene toxicity in rat primary myocardial cell cultures

Abstract Cocaethylene is a unique cocaine metabolite formed in the presence of ethanol by the liver. Neither acute nor chronic cardiotoxic effects of this metabolite have been investigated. The purpose of this study was to establish a time- and dose-dependent toxicity profile for cocaethylene in primary myocardial cell cultures established from 3–5-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats. Alterations in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, lysosomal neutral red (NR) retention, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), morphology, and beating activity were evaluated after treatment of cultures with cocaethylene doses ranging from 1.0 × 10 −3 to 1.0 × 10 −9 M from 1 to 24 h. LDH release was significantly elevated after 24 h only with those cultures exposed to the highest dose of cocaethylene (1.0 × 10 −3 M). The highest dose of cocaethylene also significantly depressed NR retention. While all doses of cocaethylene depressed contractile activity and altered cellular morphology by 24 h, there were no TBARS formed up to 15 h. Thus, both low and high doses of cocaethylene are injurious to the cellular integrity and contractility of myocardial cell cultures. Future studies are warranted to determine mechanisms of cocaethylene toxicity in this in vitro model of spontaneously contracting myocardial cells.
Hemoglobin-induced lung vascular oxidation, inflammation, and remodeling contribute to the progression of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension and is attenuated in rats with repeated-dose haptoglobin administration

Haptoglobin (Hp) is an approved treatment in Japan for trauma, burns, and massive transfusion-related hemolysis. Additional case reports suggest uses in other acute hemolytic events that lead to acute kidney injury. However, Hp's protective effects on the pulmonary vasculature have not been evaluated within the context of mitigating the consequences of chronic hemoglobin (Hb) exposure in the progression of pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to hemolytic diseases. This study was performed to assess the utility of chronic Hp therapy in a preclinical model of Hb and hypoxia-mediated PH. Rats were simultaneously exposed to chronic Hb infusion (35 mg per day) and hypobaric hypoxia for 5 weeks in the presence or absence of Hp treatment (90 mg/kg twice a week). Hp inhibited the Hb plus hypoxia-mediated nonheme iron accumulation in lung and heart tissue, pulmonary vascular inflammation and resistance, and right-ventricular hypertrophy, which suggests a positive impact on impeding the progression of PH. In addition, Hp therapy was associated with a reduction in critical mediators of PH, including lung adventitial macrophage population and endothelial ICAM-1 expression. By preventing Hb-mediated pathology, Hp infusions: (1) demonstrate a critical role for Hb in vascular remodeling associated with hypoxia and (2) suggest a novel therapy for chronic hemolysis-associated PH.
Female urethral diverticula with clear cell adenocarcinoma

Clear cell adenocarcinoma in a urethral diverticulum in the female is a very rare and unusual tumor. We recently treated two patients with this tumor. Their presentation, histologic evaluation, and management are reviewed in light of the limited experience in the literature.
Noncontact optical metrologies for Young’s modulus measurements of nanoporous low-k dielectric thin films

Brillouin light scattering (BLS) and picosecond laser ultrasonics (PLU) are two noncontact optical techniques that have garnered significant interest for thin film elastic constant measurements. PLU and BLS measurements were utilized to determine the elastic constants of 100 to 500 nm thick nanoporous low-k dielectric materials of significant interest for reducing capacitive delays in nanoelectronic interconnect circuits. PLU measurements with and without a metal acousto-optic transducer are described in detail and compared to previously reported BLS measurements. The values of Young’s modulus determined by both BLS and PLU were found to be in excellent agreement and consistent with nanoindentation measurements on thicker 2 micrometer films. While successful BLS measurements were achieved for films as thin as 100 nm, PLU measurements were limited to >∼200 nm thick films due to experimental constraints on observing acoustic pulses in thinner films. However, these results clearly demonstrate the capability of both BLS and PLU to determine the elastic constants of low-k dielectric materials at the desired thickness targets for future nanoelectronic interconnect technologies.
Identification of Non-Minimum Phase Transfer Function Components

A technique is shown for the direct identification of non-minimum phase terms with application to system identification. No polynomial root finding is necessary with this approach. The method uses a combination of kepstrum analysis to first estimate a minimum phase term and the residual all-pass transfer functions which have the non-minimum phase information are then estimated with a cascaded recursive-least squares (RLS) algorithm.