cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photologging To Obtain Dimensions

Having a detailed photographic record of each highway, its appurtenances, and its adjacent features, is advantageous for evolving maintenance programs, correcting defects, and eliminating hazards. The pictorial record, however, unless it can be used for determining position, spacing, and relevant dimensions wherever required is not fully effective. Techniques are presented for computing dimensions, using measurements made on the photographs taken singly and at a longitudinal spacing of known length along the highway, or at random, if necessary. Tests indicate position and dimension determined using the developed equations do not differ by more than 5% from actual values. Greater precision is feasible, if fiducial marks are provided and accurate positioning of the perspective center is readily obtainable.
Laser angioplasty using a lensed-fiber delivery system and a pulsed Nd:YAG laser: early clinical results

We performed a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a unique lensed-fiber delivery system with a pulsed Neodymium-yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd-YAG) laser in patients with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease. The lensed-fiber consists of a spherical silica lens, 1 .5 mm in diameter, mounted at the distal tip of a 300 im silica optical fiber. The Nd-YAG laser is pulsed at 10 Hz, and we delivered 0.5 J/pulse with a pulse duration of 100 msecs in 2- to 5-second bursts. Successful recanalization of stenoses or occlusions was obtained in 9 of 10 patients and was manifested by improvement in blood flow as measured angiographically and with ankle-brachial blood pressure index improvement (> 0. 15). There were no arterial perforations or dissections associated with the laser angioplasty. All successfully recanalized patients required adjunctive balloon angioplasty to obtain a satisfactory reduction in luminal diameter stenosis of the treated artery. We conclude that this unique delivery system and the pulsed Nd-YAG laser are a safe and effect method of recanalizing arterial stenoses not amenable to conventional balloon angioplasty alone.
On the complexities of short range ferromagnetic exchange in a nitronyl nitroxide

Abstract The molecular solid state structure and properties of 2-(4-nitrophenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethy-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazolyl-1-oxyl 3-oxide (1) were examined. The solid state structure of two ( α and β ) out of three phases, together with relevant short intermolecular contacts (to 3.60A) are presented. Solid state phase transformations, as detected by differential scanning calorimetry and electron spin resonance are described. As reported previously by Awaga, one phase of 1 exhibits short range intermolecular ferromagnetic interaction of the unpaired electrons. Explanation for the structural origin of this electron-electron interaction is hampered by the fact that 1 forms structurally completely different solid state phases, yet each phases shows qualitatively the same temperature dependance of the magnetic susceptibility but different electron spin resonance linewidths and linewidth behavior as a function of temperature.
Characterization of cellular nucleic acid binding protein from Xenopus laevis: expression in all three germ layers during early development.

The Xenopus CNBP homologue (XCNBP) has been cloned from stage 14 neurula. XCNBP encodes a 18.4-kDa protein containing seven highly conserved zinc finger (Zn-finger) repeats (CX2CX4HX4CX2), with sequence similarity to human, mouse, rat, and yeast CNBP. A unique feature of XCNBP is that it contains a 10 amino acid (aa) deletion in the linker region between Zn-fingers 1 and 2, immediately downstream from an alternatively spliced exon of human CNBP isoforms. A similar deletion is found in mouse and yeast CNBP proteins. The deleted region lacks potential PEST and casein kinase II phosphorylation sites. Because CNBP proteins from a variety of species contain deletions in a similar region, these results suggest that the pattern of alternative processing of CNBP isoforms is highly conserved among metazoa and unicellular eukaryotes. XCNBP RNA is initially maternally derived and is widely expressed throughout early development at the gastrula, neurula, and tailbud stages. At the early gastrula stage, XCNBP is expressed in ectodermal, endodermal, and mesodermal germ layers. Previous data have demonstrated the presence of CNBP in the cytoplasm and nucleus. The interactions of CNBP with single-stranded DNA and RNA suggest that CNBP may serve dual functions in transcriptional and translational regulation in a wide variety of tissues during development. Dev. Dyn. 1998;211:123–130. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Normal modes and specific heat of an undamped three-dimensional lattice of pancake vortices in thin superconducting multilayers

Our recent experiments on BSCCO (2:2:1:2) have detected a significant anisotropic magnetic-field dependence of the specific heat, with an excess contribution for a perpendicular magnetic field (along the c axis), relative to that for zero or parallel field. One possible explanation for these observations is the thermal excitation of undamped vibrational modes of the lattice of pancake vortices. In the London model, the resulting heat capacity Cν has a Debye-like form appropriate for two-dimensional phonons, with a characteristic Debye temperature Θν = hwc/2kB (for B = 10T and free electrons, Θν ≈ 6.7 K).
Trpc2 gene impacts on maternal aggression, accessory olfactory bulb anatomy and brain activity

The Trpc2 gene codes for an ion channel found in the vomeronasal organ (VNO). Studies using the Trpc2−/− (KO) mouse have exploited the gene's role in signal transduction to explore the VNO's role in pheromonally mediated behaviors. To date, no study has evaluated the impact of the Trpc2 gene on activity within the brain. In this study, we examine the gene's effect on brain regions governing maternal aggression. We intruder-tested lactating dams and then quantified Fos immunoreactivity (Fos-IR) in the vomeronasal amygdala, hypothalamus, olfactory regions and accessory olfactory bulb (AOB). Our data confirm previous reports that loss of the Trpc2 gene severely diminishes maternal aggression. We also show that deletion of the gene results in differential hypotrophy of the glomerular layer (GlA) of the AOB, with the anterior portion the GlA resembling that of wild-type mice, and the posterior portion reduced or absent. This anatomy is suggestive of residual functioning in the apical VNO of these animals. Our Fos study describes an impact of the deletion on a network of 21 brain regions involved in emotion, aggression and olfaction, suggesting that signals from the VNO mediate activity throughout the brain. Home-cage observations of KO dams show specific deficits in nest-building, suggesting a role for pup pheromones in inducing and maintaining pup-directed maternal behaviors as well as maternal aggression.
Deciphering Nitric Oxide Stress in Bacteria with Quantitative Modeling

Many pathogens depend on nitric oxide (NO ) detoxification and repair to establish an infection, and inhibitors of these systems are under investigation as next-generation antibiotics. Because of the broad reactivity of NO and its derivatives with biomolecules, a deep understanding of how pathogens sense and respond to NO , as an integrated system, has been elusive. Quantitative kinetic modeling has been proposed as a method to enhance analysis and understanding of NO stress at the systems-level. Here we review the motivation for, current state of, and future prospects of quantitative modeling of NO stress in bacteria, and suggest that such mathematical approaches would prove equally useful in the study of other broadly reactive antimicrobials, such as hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ).
Degree two Gaussian cubatures in the plane

Abstract In 1960 A. H. Stroud gave a construction from which all minimal degree two cubatures for an arbitrary region can be obtained. A special form of this construction is made here which results in cubatures for plane regions, in particular for convex quadrilaterals, which have positive weights and all nodes contained in the region. We refer to such rules as Gaussian cubatures.
Alterations in behaviour and catecholamine biosynthesis induced by lithium.

THERE is general agreement that lithium (Li) impairs central catecholamine transmission, although the underlying mechanism is subject to debate1–4. More ambiguous is the literature describing the behavioural effects of Li in experimental animals. Although considerable evidence indicates that Li suppresses various behaviours5–10, there are reports that this effect is only apparent after drug-induced stimulation11–14. Results are also contradictory with respect to the behavioural effects of long term Li administration, some studies reporting continued or even exaggerated suppression with repeated administration15–18, while others describe development of tolerance to the Li-induced behavioural suppression12,13.
The effect of BCNU on the responses of human erythrocytes to six oxidant stressors

Abstract It was hypothesized that the antineoplastic drug (1, 3‐bis(2‐chloroethyl)‐i‐nitrosourea (BCNU), a known and potent Inhibitor of erythrocyte glutathlone reductase (GSSG‐R), may enhance the oxidant stress of known oxidizing agents commonly found in the environment. Consequently, this paper assessed the effects of BCNU‐induced decreases (i.e. down to approximately 20% of normal) In human erythrocyte GSSG‐R on the toxicity of six known oxldant stressor agents (i.e. chlorite, copper, nitrite, p‐chloroaniline, paraquat and carbaryl) as measured by changes in methemoglobin (METHB) and reduced glutathlone (GSH). The results Indicated that a BCNU‐induced deficiency of GSSG‐R produced no enhanced formation of METHB or decrease in GSH under exposure to the above stressors.
Characteristics of Fathers with Depressive Symptoms

Extensive research shows maternal depression to be associated with poorer child outcomes, and characteristics of these mothers have been described. Recent research describes associations of paternal depressive symptoms and child behavioral and emotional outcomes, but characteristics of these fathers have not been investigated. This study describes characteristics of fathers with depressive symptoms in the USA. Utilizing data from 7,247 fathers and mothers living in households with children aged 5-17 years who participated in the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 2004-2006, the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 was used to assess parental depressive symptoms, the Short Form-12 was used to examine paternal and maternal physical health, the Columbia Impairment Scale was used to measure child behavioral or emotional problems, and the Children with Special Health Care Needs Screener was used to identify children with special health care needs. In multivariate analyses, poverty (AOR 1.52; 95% CI 1.05-2.22), maternal depressive symptoms (AOR 5.77; 95% CI 4.18-7.95), living with a child with special health care needs (AOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.04-1.94), poor paternal physical health (AOR 3.31; 95% CI 2.50-4.38) and paternal unemployment (AOR 6.49; 95% CI 4.12-10.22) were independently associated with increased rates of paternal depressive symptoms. These are the first data that demonstrate that poverty, paternal physical health problems, having a child with special health care needs, maternal depressive symptoms, and paternal unemployment are independently associated with paternal depressive symptoms, with paternal unemployment associated with the highest rates of such problems.
Roux-en-Y near esophagojejunostomy for failed antireflux operations: outcomes in more than 100 patients.

Background Intractable gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after antireflux operations presents a challenge—particularly in obese patients and patients with esophageal dysmotility—and increases the complexity of the redo operation. This study evaluated the results of Roux-en-Y near esophagojejunostomy (RNYNEJ) in the management of recurrent GERD after antireflux operations. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of overweight patients with intractable GERD who underwent RNYNEJ for failed antireflux operations. We evaluated perioperative outcomes, dysphagia (ranging from 1 = no dysphagia to 5 = unable to swallow saliva), and quality of life (QOL) (assessed using the GERD health-related quality-of-life instrument (HRQOL). Results Over a 12-year period, 105 patients with body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 underwent RNYNEJ for failed antireflux operations. Most were obese (BMI > 30; 82 patients [78%]); esophageal dysmotility was demonstrated in more than one-third of patients. Forty-eight (46%) patients had multiple antireflux operations before RNYNEJ, and 27 patients had undergone a previous Collis gastroplasty. There was no perioperative mortality. Major complications, including anastomotic leak requiring surgical intervention (n = 3 [2.9%]), were noted in 25 patients (24%).The median length of stay was 6 days. During follow-up (mean, 23.39 months), median BMI decreased from 35 to 27.6 ( p p Conclusions RNYNEJ for persistent GERD after antireflux operations in appropriately selected patients can be performed safely with good results in experienced centers. RNYNEJ should be considered an important option for the treatment of intractable recurrent symptoms after antireflux operations, particularly in obese patients.
Diagnosing students' misconceptions in algebra: Results from an experimental pilot study

Computer-based diagnostic assessment systems hold potential to help teachers identify sources of poor performance and to connect teachers and students to learning activities designed to help advance students’ conceptual understandings. The present article presents findings from a study that examined how students’ performance in algebra and their overcoming of common algebraic misconceptions were affected by the use of a diagnostic assessment system that focused on important algebra concepts. This study used a four-group randomized cluster trial design in which teachers were assigned randomly to one of four groups: a “business as usual” control group, a partial intervention group that was provided with access to diagnostic tests results, a partial intervention group that was provided with access to the learning activities, and a full intervention group that was given access to the test results and learning activities. Data were collected from 905 students (6th–12th grade) nested within 44 teachers. We used hierarchical linear modeling techniques to compare the effects of full, partial, and no (control) intervention on students’ algebraic ability and misconceptions. The analyses indicate that full intervention had a net positive effect on ability and misconception measures.
Adopting embryos in America: a case study and an ethical analysis

In 2001, on behalf of two Christian couples, a Christian adoption agency in the United States arranged an open embryo adoption. In addition to ethically analyzing this specific case, this paper situates the case politically and medically and distinguishes a number of general moral considerations relevant for reflection on this case. The paper concludes that while the choice to adopt embryos is morally appropriate and even praiseworthy in some circumstances, troubling features in this specific case rendered this particular adoption morally problematic.
Online wind estimation and prediction for a two-layer frozen flow atmosphere

We present a method for online estimation and prediction of wavefront distortions caused by two independent layers of frozen flow turbulence. The key to this algorithm is a fast, gradient-based estimator that uses optical flow techniques to extract the bulk velocity vectors of the two wind layers from three consecutive measurements of their combined wavefront. Once these velocity vectors are known, the phase aberrations resulting from the two-layer atmosphere can be predicted at any future time using a linear combination of shifted wavefronts. This allows calculation of a deformable mirror correction that compensates for the time delay errors in the control loop. Predictive control will be especially beneficial for visible light and high-contrast astronomical adaptive optics as well as for any adaptive optics system whose performance suffers due to time delay errors. A multilayer approach to predictive control is necessary since most observing sites have multi-layer atmospheres. The spatial domain method that we present is attractive because it uses all spatial frequency components of the wavefront simultaneously to find a global wind model. Its ability to update the wind velocity estimate at each control cycle makes it sensitive to changes in the wind on the order of tens of milliseconds. Our simulations show a potential Strehl increase from 0.45 to 0.65 for visible-light adaptive optics in low-noise, moderate-wind conditions with two frozen-flow wind layers and a strong static layer.
Frequency Domain Synchrony Between Signals From the Conventional Disc Electrode and the Outer Ring of the Tripolar Concentric Ring Electrode in Human Electroencephalogram Data

For applications that may benefit from simultaneous recording of conventional electroencephalography (EEG) and tEEG, Laplacian EEG with tripolar concentric ring electrodes (TCREs), we proposed to use the signal from the outer ring of the TCRE as an emulation (eEEG) of EEG recorded using conventional disc electrodes. This allows recording EEG emulation from the exact same locations at the exact same time as the tEEG using a single recording system. In our previous work, time domain neuronal signal synchrony was assessed in phantom and human experiments suggesting the potential of eEEG as an emulation of EEG. In this paper, frequency domain neuronal signal synchrony was measured using coherence in human experiments further suggesting the potential of eEEG (C ≥ 0.98).
The metabolism of 1-14C arachidonic acid in pyridoxine-deficient and pair-fed control rats

The metabolism of 1-14C arachidonate was studied in pyridoxine-deficient and pair-fed pyridoxine-supplemented control rats. The studies included intestinal absorption, oxidation to14CO2, organ uptakes and distribution of14C in the fatty acids of the various organs. Generally, pyridoxine deficiency resulted in little or no alteration of the metabolism of arachidonic acid 6 and 12 hrs after oral administration. A notable exception occurred in hearts of deficient animals in which the proportion of the incorporated14C activity found in fatty acids other than 20:4 was larger than that observed in hearts of pyridoxine-supplemented animals. A significant amount of14C activity in a water-soluble form was observed in hydrolysates of intestinal contents and of intestines of both groups. Pyridoxine-deficient rats had larger quantities than their respective pair-fed pyridoxine-supplemented controls. Most of the14C activity of fatty acids of various organs was present as arachidonic acid, but significant activity was present both in fatty acids of shorter and of longer retention time than 20:4. In brain about 20% of the14C activity in fatty acids was in a fraction tentatively identified as an 18:2 isomer. In lungs about 10% of the14C activity was in a fraction tentatively identified as a 22:2 isomer and a similar quantity was observed in a polyene tentatively identified as a 22:4.
High-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) neutralization ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, demyelinating disease and as such, the gold standard of treatment is to selectively suppress the pathogenic autoimmune response without compromising the entire arm of the adaptive immune response. One target of this strategy lying upstream of the pathologic adaptive immune response is the local, innate immune signaling that initiates and drives autoimmunity and sterile injury. High-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) is a ubiquitous nuclear protein that when released from necrotic cells, such as damaged oligodendrocytes in MS lesions, drives pro-inflammatory responses. Here we demonstrate that HMGB1 drives neuroinflammatory responses in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a murine model for MS, and that inhibition of HMGB1 signaling ameliorates disease. Specifically i.v. injection of an HMGB1 neutralizing antibody in the C57BL/6 model of chronic EAE or SJL/J model of relapsing-remitting EAE ameliorated clinical disease prophylactically or during ongoing disease, blocked T cell infiltration of the central nervous system, and inhibited systemic CD4 + T cell responses to myelin epitopes. Additionally, lymphocytes from EAE mice restimulated in vitro in the presence of recombinant HMGB1 exhibited increased proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production, an effect that was blocked by anti-HMGB1 antibody. Similarly recombinant HMGB1 promoted proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated in vitro , and anti-HMGB1 antibody blocked this effect. These findings indicate that HMGB1 contributes to neuroinflammatory responses that drive EAE pathogenesis and that HMGB1 blockade may be a novel means to selectively disrupt the pro-inflammatory loop that drives MS autoimmunity.
Amperometric detection of methanol with a methanol dehydrogenase modified electrode sensor

Abstract An amperometric enzyme electrode was developed by immobilizing the quinoprotein methanol dehydrogenase from Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 onto a glassy carbon electrode. Ferrocene (FC), ferrocene carboxylic acid, N , N , N ′, N ′-tetramethyl-1,4-phenylenediamine (TMPD), N , N -dimethyl- p -phenylenediamine (DMPD), phenazine methosulfate (PMeS) and Wurster blue (WB) were evaluated as electron-transfer mediators. DMPD, TMPD and Fc were found to be effective electron-transfer mediators for the enzyme with only ferrocene exhibiting a stable response in the presence of oxygen. The best response for the detection of methanol was achieved with a 100 μM suspension of ferrocene in 100 mM Tris/HCl buffer pH 9.0. The sensor utilized very small quantities of enzyme, and exhibited excellent reproducibility and stability with a detection limit of 0.5 μM ( S / N = 3) and a linear range of 0.5–200 μM.
Studies of Hyperlipidemia in the HGH-Deficient State

Abstract Plasma lipoproteins were analyzed in seven subjects with an isolated deficiency of human growth hormone (HGH). By plasma lipoprotein electrophoresis, each had a prominent beta band, and five also exhibited a strongly staining prebeta band. The prominent beta band was associated with elevation of plasma cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL), while the increased prebeta band appeared to reflect the high levels of plasma triglycerides and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). Glucose tolerance was abnormal in each subject, but basal plasma free fatty acid (FFA) and insulin concentrations were within the normal range. The data indicate that growth hormone deficiency is associated frequently with an abnormal serum lipoprotein pattern, and that, either directly or indirectly, the pituitary modulates serum lipoprotein metabolism. Cardiovascular disease was conspiciously absent in this group, a finding that will require further investigation.
Ribosomal subunit exchange in the cytoplasm of a eukaryote.

Ribosomes in yeast cytoplasm frequently undergo subunit exchange. Thus the dissociation and re-formation of ribosomes between successive rounds of protein synthesis appears to be a universal mechanism.
Systematic design of phase-shifting masks

In this paper, we present a systematic method for phase-shifting mask design in coherent optical lithography using approaches based on approximation theory, phase-retrieval, and image extrapolation. This method also provides some insight into the design of enhanced- resolution masks for incoherent and partially coherent systems and suggests a possible strategy for pupil filter design. The optical lithography system is divided into three subsystems: (1) a softlimiter, (2) a squarer, and (3) a bandlimiter. Thus, the phase-shifting mask design is approached via three corresponding subproblems: (1) bandlimited approximation, (2) phase- retrieval, and (3) extrapolation. Using this method, we demonstrate the possibility of composing a large and complicated phase-shifting mask by abutting smaller and simpler masks. Simulation results of phase-shifting design examples are provided to illustrate the method and ideas described here.
Fiber and film formation by self-assembly of colloidal silicalite-1 and copper coated silicalite-1 nanocrystals

Silicalite-1 nanocrystals with sizes of 20 and 74 nm were synthesized and stored as colloidal solutions in water or ethanol. The self-assembly of the colloidal silicalite-1 nanocrystals into thin films and transparent, rectangular fibers was monitored. Monodispersed and binary colloidal silicalite-1 nanocrystals both formed rectangular fibers through close packing of the nanocrystals. The formation of fibers or thin films was controlled by varying the concentration of the colloidal solutions. At higher concentration, fibers were formed, while very diluted colloidal solutions resulted in thin films. Calcination of the fibers or thin films did not damage the zeolite structures. Two methods were developed to coat copper metal onto the silicalite-1 nanocrystals. Silicalite-1 fibers and films coated with copper were conductive materials.
Multiobjective Time Domain Input Shaping for Closed-Loop Discrete-Time Systems

Abstract An input shaping algorithm based on convex optimization techniques is presented for closed-loop discrete-time linear time-invariant (LTI) systems where closed-loop signals are subject to linear constraints. As an illustrative example the seeking process in a Hard Disk Drive is investigated. The closed-loop system responses to both shaped and non-shaped inputs are compared.
Glucocorticoid enhancement of serotonergic facilitation of cat spinal monosynaptic motor neuron excitation

Abstract Intensive pretreatment with triamcinoline diacetate (8 mg/kg, i.m. once daily for 7 days) was found in the acute spinal (decerebrate) cat to potentiate the increase in monosynaptic spinal reflex transmission caused by coadministration of the serotonin precursor, d , l -5-hydroxytryptophan, and amitriptyline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. In addition, the ability of methysergide, a selective serotonin receptor antagonist, to reverse the monosynaptic excitatory actions of d , l -5-hydroxytryptophan plus amitriptyline was significantly reduced. This apparent glucocorticoid enhancement of the actions of a serotonergic spinal system that is facilitatory to motor neuron excitation may have relevance to the therapy of degenerative motor neuron disorders.
Axial distribution of myosin binding protein-C is unaffected by mutations in human cardiac and skeletal muscle

Myosin binding protein-C (MyBP-C), a major thick filament associated sarcomeric protein, plays an important functional and structural role in regulating sarcomere assembly and crossbridge formation. Missing or aberrant MyBP-C proteins (both cardiac and skeletal) have been shown to cause both cardiac and skeletal myopathies, thereby emphasising its importance for the normal functioning of the sarcomere. Mutations in cardiac MyBP-C are a major cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), while mutations in skeletal MyBP-C have been implicated in a disease of skeletal muscle—distal arthrogryposis type 1 (DA-1). Here we report the first detailed electron microscopy studies on human cardiac and skeletal tissues carrying MyBP-C gene mutations, using samples obtained from HCM and DA-1 patients. We have used established image averaging methods to identify and study the axial distribution of MyBP-C on the thick filament by averaging profile plots of the A-band of the sarcomere from electron micrographs of human cardiac and skeletal myopathy specimens. Due to the difficulty of obtaining normal human tissue, we compared the distribution to the A-band structure in normal frog skeletal, rat cardiac muscle and in cardiac muscle of MyBP-C-deficient mice. Very similar overall profile averages were obtained from the C-zones in cardiac HCM samples and skeletal DA-1 samples with MyBP-C gene mutations, suggesting that mutations in MyBP-C do not alter its mean axial distribution along the thick filament.
The maternal hemodynamic effects of bupivacaine-epinephrine mixture used for obstetrical anesthesia.

The maternal hemodynamic effects of bupivacaine (0.5%)-epinephrine (5 μg/ml) mixture used for lumbar epidural anesthesia were studied with an impedance cardiograph and an automated blood pressure device in term gravidas undergoing elective cesarean section. Following i.v. hydration with 2000 ml Ringer' s lactate solution, 16 patients received bupivacaine-epinephrine mixture and 16 patients plain bupivacaine in 5-ml increments to a T4 level. Measurements were made before anesthesia, at T10 and at T4 sensory levels. Results were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the least significant difference method at P<0.05. In the epinephrine group, at T10 level, the diastolic (D) and mean (M) pressures decreased significantly 11 Â± 3, and 10 Â± 1 % (mean Â± s.e.mean) respectively with no significant change in the S pressure. No significant changes were seen in the plain group. At T4, the S, D and M pressures decreased significantly 8 Â± 2, 18 Â± 4 and 16 Â± 2% in the epinephrine group. In the plain group the decrease in each one of these pressures was less than 5% and was not significant. In the epinephrine group, S, D and M pressures decreased significantly more than they did in the plain group at T10 and T4. Systemic vascular resistance decreasd significantly from control values by 19 Â± 6% at T4 in the epinephrine group with no significant changes in the plain group. No significant differences were seen in cardiac output (CO), stroke volume and heart rate (HR) in either group at T10 or T4 levels, compared to the baseline value or compared to the other group. It is concluded that epidurally administered epinephrine produces mainly a β-2 mediated vasodilatation without any evidence of u-agonism or changes in CO or HR.
Severe hypercalcemia caused by Milk‐Alkali syndrome requiring urgent hemodialysis – Tums by the ton

An increased frequency of the Milk-Alkali syndrome in the last several years has been noticed related to increasing use of calcium carbonate as a phosphate binder in CKD patients, as an antacid or as calcium supplementation. We present a case of severe hypercalcemia secondary to Milk-Alkali syndrome that precipitated acute renal failure requiring urgent hemodialysis. A 59-year-old male with history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and acid reflux presented to the ER with confusion, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. His family relayed a history of recent indigestion and relief with Tums. He was taking several tablets at short intervals to self-treat the indigestion. At the time of presentation, patient was confused and noted to be dehydrated. Lab findings were significant for elevated BUN/Cr- 121 mg/dl/11.1 mg/dl (baseline Cr 1.1 mg/dl few months ago), bicarbonate 38 mg/dl, calcium 16.7 mg/dl, ionized Ca of 1.76 mmol/L, iPTH 10 pg/ml, PTHrP 0.7 pg/ml. Medical management with intravenous fluids and furosemide showed no improvement in renal failure, or calcium level. Patient was then started on hemodialysis with 2.0 mmol/L calcium in the dialysate the next day. There was gradual improvement in patient's mental status, calcium values, and renal failure over the ensuing 2 weeks. Discussion and Conclusions: The diagnosis of Milk-Alkali syndrome is made on the basis of history. Metabolic abnormalities involved in this syndrome are hypercalcemia with low to normal PTH and Vit. D levels, renal failure, and metabolic alkalosis. Failed medical management required acute dialysis in this patient. Acute hemodialysis in such a case could be life saving. Due to increasing use of calcium carbonate for dyspepsia and osteoporosis, patients should be made aware of these severe, potentially life-threatening adverse effects.
A methodology for assessing human mitral leaflet curvature using real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography.

Objectives Using 3-dimensional echocardiography in conjunction with novel geometric modeling and rendering techniques, we have developed a high-resolution, quantitative, 3-dimensional methodology for imaging the human mitral valve. Leaflet and annular geometry are important determinants of mitral valve stress. Repair techniques that optimize valvular geometry will reduce stress and potentially increase repair durability. The development of such procedures will require image-processing methodologies that provide a quantitative description of 3-dimensional valvular geometry. Methods Ten healthy adult subjects underwent mitral valve imaging with real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography. By using specially designed image analysis software, multiple valvular geometric parameters, including 2- and 3-dimensional leaflet curvature, leaflet surface area, annular height, intercommissural width, septolateral annular diameter, and annular area were determined for each subject. Image-rendering techniques that allow for the clear and concise presentation of this detailed information are also presented. Results Although 3-dimensional annular and leaflet geometry were found to be highly conserved between healthy human subjects in general, substantial intrasubject and intersubject regional geometric heterogeneity was observed in the midposterior leaflet, the region most commonly involved in leaflet flail in subjects with myxomatous disease. Conclusions The image-processing and graphic-rendering techniques that we have developed can be used to provide a complete description of 3-dimensional mitral valve geometry in human subjects. Widespread application of these techniques to healthy subjects and patients with mitral valve disease will provide insight into the geometric basis of both valvular pathology and repair durability.
Deacylation of carcinogenic 5-nitrofuran derivatives by mammalian tissues.

Abstract The deacylations of N -[4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-thiazolyl] fonnamide (FANFT), N -[4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-thiazolyl] acetarnide (NFTA) and formic acid 2-[4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-thiazolyl] hydrazide (FNT) by liver, kidney, small intestines and stomach of mouse, rat, hamster and guinea pig were investigated. FANFT was deformylated to 2-amino-4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)thiazole (ANFT). FANFT formamidase activity was higher in the liver and small intestines of mouse, hamster and guinea pig, and small intestines and stomach of rat. There was no detectable FANFT formamidase activity in the stomach of the mouse and hamster. Neither NFTA nor FNT was deacylated by the rodent tissue homogenates studied. It is suggested that (1) 4 ANFT is a metabolite of FANFT but not NFTA; (2) 2-hydrazino-4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)thiazole (HNFT) may not be a metabolite of FNT; and (3) the induction of tumors by FANFT, NFTA and FNT may not be due to a common carcinogenic metabolite, although these chemicals demonstrate similar organ specificities in some of these rodents.
Allison Model 501-K14 Gas Turbine 1000-Hr Saltwater Ingestion Test

The Allison Model 501-K14 industrial gas turbine engine, a modified version of the T56 aircraft engine, has been used extensively as a prime mover for industrial applications. The areas of application to date have been in the gas transmission field driving centrifugal gas compressors and driving electrical generators. This paper describes a 1000-hr cyclic test of the Model 501-K14 engine with salt water ingestion as the first step in qualifying the engine for marine application. Performance data, photographs of the installation and engine components, and inspection results are included in this report.Copyright © 1969 by ASME
Absolute cross section measurement of Lyman-α radiation production

Abstract An absolute cross section has been determined for Lyman-α radiation production during collision of a low-energy atomic hydrogen ion and laser-excited sodium vapor.
Where is the Hospitality in Your Library

Presentation at the Michigan Library Association Annual Conference - Lansing, Michigan - on October 16, 2013.
Influence of age, thought content, and anxiety on suppression of intrusive thoughts.

Understanding differences in responses following attempts to suppress versus simply monitor intrusive thoughts is important given the established relationship between intrusive thinking and numerous forms of psychopathology. Moreover, these differences may vary as a function of age. Because of the links between aging and both enhancement in emotion regulation skills and decline in inhibition skills, older and younger adults were expected to differ in their responses (e.g., experience of negative affect and thought recurrence) to attempts at suppressing intrusive thoughts. This study examined whether efforts to suppress thought content that varied in valence and age-relevance differentially affected older (N = 40, aged 66–92) and younger (N = 42, aged 16–25) adults’ ability to inhibit intrusive thought recurrence and their resulting negative affect. Interestingly, older adults experienced less recurrence for most thoughts than younger adults. Also, for several dependent variables (negative affect and perceived difficulty suppressing intrusive thoughts), older adults showed less decline in their magnitude of response across thinking periods (i.e., from suppression to monitoring) than did younger adults. These age effects were not generally moderated by level of trait anxiety, though higher anxiety did predict intrusive thought responding in expected directions, such as greater negative affect. These findings point to independent influences of age and anxiety, and suggest a complex mix of risk and protective factors for older adults’ responses to intrusive thoughts.
Ocular malformations and developmental genes

New insights into the pathogenesis of ocular malformations came with the discovery of transcription factors that determine the fate of cells in the developing eye. Several malformations have been matched to individual developmental genes that share conserved DNA sequences such as the homeobox. These disease/gene matches include the oculorenal syndrome and PAX2; aniridia and PAX6; Rieger syndrome and RIEG1/PITX2; cyclopia and Sonic hedgehog; cone-rod dystrophy, Leber's congenital amaurosis and CRX; and recessive septooptic dysplasia and HESX1. Gene mapping and mutation analysis have allowed a more accurate and meaningful classification of genetically heterogeneous diseases such as the anterior segment dysgenesis syndromes. This paper reviews current information on the genetics of ocular malformations.
Dallas: Design automation language for logic array structures

Abstract This paper presents the design language DALLAS set up for the development of a control unit of a processor implemented in a single VLSI whose size is approximately 200,000 transistors. The processor is a finite state machine and its control unit (70% of the silicon area) has a very large AND-OR network implemented with PLA's. Within the present tool, processor control and operation functions are specified in a powerful high level language, validated and translated into boolean logic and then submitted to boolean minimization. With regard to PLA implementation on silicon, efficient topological minimization is achieved by means of a special folding technique optimized to the specific finite state machine matrix morphology. A 30% reduction of the PLA's active area has been obtained with obvious benefits both in yields and performance.
Implementation of the peer-led team-learning instructional model as a stopgap measure improves student achievement for students opting out of laboratory

In entry-level university courses in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, students participating in associated laboratory sessions generally do better than those who have no related lab classes. This is a problem when, for various reasons, not enough lab sections can be offered for students and/or when students opt out of optional available lab courses. Faced with such a situation, this study evaluated the efficacy of the peer-led team-learning (PLTL) instructional model as a potential method for narrowing the achievement gap among undergraduate students electing not to enroll in an optional laboratory component of an introductory biology course. In peer-led workshops, small groups of students participated in solving problems and other activities that encouraged active learning. Students led by peer leaders attained significantly higher exam and final course grades in introductory biology than comparable students not participating in PLTL. Among the introductory biology students who opted not to enroll in the optional lab course, those who participated in PLTL averaged more than a letter grade higher than those who did not. This difference was statistically significant, and the PLTL workshops almost entirely closed the achievement gap in lecture exam and final grades for students who did not take the lab.
Using join operations as reducers in distributed query processing

Semijoin has traditionally been relied upon for reducing the communication cost required for distributed query processing. However, judiciously applying join operations as reducers can lead to further reduction in the communication cost. In view of this fact, we explore in this paper the approach of using join operations, in addition to semijoins, as reducers in distributed query processing. We first show that the problem of determining a sequence of join operations for a query graph can be transformed to that of finding a set of cuts to that graph, where a cut to a graph is a partition of the nodes in that graph. In light of the mapping we develop an efficient heuristic algorithm to determine an effective sequence of join reducers for a query. The algorithm using the concept of divide-and-conquer is shown to have polynomial time complexity. Examples are also given to illustrate our results.
Perturbation theory of a model hcp solid

Spherically averaged radial distribution functions of hard-sphere hexagonal close-packed (hcp) structures have been estimated by Monte Carlo simulations for a wide range of solid densities. By fitting the Monte Carlo data, an accurate analytical expression for that function was obtained for use in thermodynamic perturbation theory of the solid state. We present results of perturbation theory for hcp structures over a range of temperatures and densities in the solid region. The method of Kang et al. employed in these calculations is a generalization of the Weeks, Chandler and Andersen theory, which accurately describes high density fluids and solids. Following a calculation of the relative stability of model hcp and fcc solids, the phase boundary between these two structures was determined. For the familiar cut and shifted Lennard-Jones potential, the fcc lattice is more stable along the gas-solid line for temperatures above T* = 0·3. There is a transition to the hcp structure at lower temperatures. The di...
Phase transfer catalysis: Amine catalyzed alkylation

Abstract Certain primary, secondary, and tertiary amines have been successfully employed as catalysts for the phase transfer catalytic alkylation of phenyl acetone. Studies strongly suggest that the alkylation is preceded by conversion of the amine catalyst into a quarternary ammonium salt.
Seasonal Variation in the Price Discovery Process of International Wheat

This paper uses the Gonzalo–Granger price discovery method to determine whether wheat prices are primarily discovered in the Northern Hemisphere or Southern Hemisphere and whether the price discovery process changes throughout the calendar year. Testing U.S. hard red winter prices against Argentina's wheat price we find that the United States dominates the price discovery process 7 months of the year. Testing U.S Portland soft white prices against Australia's wheat price we find that both countries play a significant role in price discovery but the relative country contribution to price formation varies throughout the year. We also find that the price discovery process changes over time. [EconLit citations: D4, C1, F15].
Cerebellar Terminations in the Red Nucleus of Macaca fascicularis : An Electron-Microscopic Study Utilizing the Anterograde Transport of WGA:HRP

The red nucleus (RN) of the macaque monkey is divided into a rostral two-thirds, the parvicellularis (RNp), which projects to the cerebellum by way of the inferior olivary nucleus, and a caudal third, the magnocellularis (RNm), which projects to the spinal cord via the rubrospinal tract. The RNp and RNm receive afferents from two principal sources: the cerebral motor cortices and the deep cerebellar nuclei. The terminations of these two afferent projections tend to be spatially segregated on rubral neurons, in that most corticorubral afferents terminate on more distal dendrites, and those from the deep cerebellar nuclei terminate more proximally. The present electron-microscopic analysis of the cerebellar terminations in the macaque RN provides anatomical evidence for the presence of labeled afferents in both divisions of this motor nucleus, following injection of wheatgerm agglutinin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase (WGA:HRP) into the deep cerebellar nuclei and the anterograde transport of the tracer to the RN. The cerebellar terminal afferents are large; contain numerous mitochondria and primarily rounded synaptic vesicles; and form asymmetric synaptic contacts with rubral neurons. Unlike other terminals in the nucleus, they possess an electron-lucent cytoplasmic matrix and less densely packed synaptic vesicles. They are termed "large, round, pale" (LRP) terminals because of the morphological characteristics that distinguish them from other afferent terminal types found in RN. Labeled cerebellar afferents in RNp and RNm contact primarily neuronal somata, proximal dendrites emerging from the cell body, large-diameter dendrites, and the spines of rubral neurons that arise from somata and proximal dendrites.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer: Cisplatin Doublets Only?

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite adequate resection, more than half of patients die of recurrent disease, usually at distant sites. Adjuvant systemic chemotherapy is mainly used to eradicate micrometastatic disease. Since the seminal 1995 meta-analysis from earlier studies showed a trend toward improved survival with the use of cisplatin-based adjuvant chemotherapy, several randomized prospective adjuvant trials have addressed this question and eventually established the role for platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage II or IIIA non-small cell lung cancer who have undergone complete resection. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage I disease remains controversial. Although no clinical or molecular predictors of recurrent disease after surgical resection are reliable, encouraging preliminary data on gene expression studies suggest that identifying, and perhaps treating, only patients at high risk for relapse might be possible in the near future. Furthermore, molecular predictors of resistance may guide the selection of chemotherapy in this setting.