cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward the End of Berlusconism or the Institutionalisation of Berlusconi's Power?

The question addressed by this paper (whether Berlusconism will survive or not) remains pivotal in the near future of Italian politics. Currently, this dilemma gets along with the debate over the survival chance of Berlusconi’s fourth government, which since 2008 is experiencing ups and downs. Given such premises, the paper attempts to investigate and, in some respect, predict whether Berlusconi’s executive will survive the ambiguous signals that characterized his latest governmental experience, or rather, will be forced to resign due to a lack of parliamentary majority, paving the way to an interim government or early election. A second purpose of this paper is broader and more analytical, proposing a research design focused on testing Berlusconism through content analysis. On this regard, my question is whether the discourse of contemporary Berlusconism, the one seen since the 2008 election, is similar or different than the one observed previously. The main hypothesis here is that if an evolutionary Berlusconism exist from 1994 to 2010 (or afterward), this should be reflected in changes at the discourse level.
Reoperative retroperitoneal lymph-node dissection for testicular germ cell tumor.

Purpose We sought to discuss the indications for reoperative retroperitoneal surgery, preoperative evaluation of patients, distribution of retroperitoneal recurrences and technical considerations for reoperative procedures. In addition, the histologic findings, clinical outcomes and perioperative complications were reviewed.
Wavelength Selection Characterization for NIR Spectra

For quantitative analysis of samples based on near-infrared (NIR) spectra, it is common practice to use full spectra in conjunction with partial least-squares (PLS) or principal component regression. Alternatively, least-squares (LS) can be used provided that proper wavelengths have been selected. Recently, optimization algorithms such as simulated annealing and the genetic algorithm have been applied to the selection of individual wavelengths. These algorithms are touted as global optimizers capable of locating the best set of parameters for a given large-scale optimization problem. Optimization methods such as simulated annealing and the genetic algorithm can become time intensive. Excessive computer time may be due not to computations but to the need to determine proper operational parameters to ensure acceptable optimization results. In order to reduce the time to select wavelengths, a different approach consists of selecting wavelengths directly on the basis of spectral criteria. This paper shows that results are not acceptable when one is separately using the criteria of large wavelength correlations to the prediction property, wavelengths associated with large values in loading vectors from PLS or derived from the singular value decomposition (SVD) of the spectra, and wavelengths associated with large PLS regression coefficients. However, it is demonstrated that acceptable results can be produced by using wavelength regions simultaneously associated with large correlations and loading values provided that the level of noise for identified wavelengths is also acceptable. Thus, this paper shows that, rather than using timeconsuming optimization algorithms that generally select individual wavelengths, one can achieve improved results based on wavelength windows directly selected. In other words, the described approach is founded on the exclusion of spectral regions rather than the search for distinct wavelengths. As part of the NIR spectral characterization, it is shown that certain loading vectors from the SVD of spectra are equivalent to correlograms for prediction properties. The same is shown to be true for PLS loading vectors. This type of analysis is useful for determining dominant properties of spectra, i.e., primary properties responsible for spectral variations.
Polarization of light on reflection by some natural surfaces

The polarization features of light reflected by soil, desert sand, white sand and water under different conditions of illumination with natural (unpolarized) and linearly polarized light have been investigated in three narrow spectral intervals (bandwidth similar 150 A) centred on wavelengths 3975, 5000 and 6050 A. A simple `rotating-analyser' type photoelectric reflectometer was used in the measurements. The data were acquired in computer compatible format to facilitate Fourier analysis of the photosignal. The degree of polarization and relative intensity variations have been determined from a knowledge of the Fourier coefficients. The polarization of light reflected by soil, desert sand and white sand exhibits pronounced wavelength dependence. There is over-all similarity in the behaviour of soil and desert sand. White sand shows a strong tendency to behave like an ideal diffuser (Lambert surface). The hypothesis of scattering of light by an `optically rough, locally smooth' surface has to be invoked to explain the reflection characteristics of an apparently smooth surface of water.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis genetic components in retail cheese curds purchased in Wisconsin and Minnesota by PCR

Research has been focused on the detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) in pasteurized milk; however, pasteurized milk is a key ingredient in a variety of food products. Therefore, MAP contamination in milk-derived products must be investigated. We undertook a six-month study to investigate the presence of viable MAP and MAP genetic components in cheese curds purchased from retail outlets in the northern and southern regions of Wisconsin and Minnesota. A total of 98 retail cheese curd samples were tested for MAP by PCR prescreen, culture on Herrold's egg yolk agar slants with mycobactin J and amphoteracin B, naladixic acid, and vancomycin, and slant rinse PCR using IS900 and hspX primer sets. Although no viable MAP were able to be cultured, 5% of the samples were PCR positive with both the IS900 and hspX primer sets (MAP-specific DNA) when prescreened and 1% of the samples were PCR positive with both the IS900 and hspX primer sets when culture slants were rinsed and tested.
Applying Virtualization Technology in Security Education

Abstract This paper describes how to use the network virtualization technology to facilitate the teaching of different security courses. We introduce how to build and play a virtual network with virtual machines or using the network virtualization supported by the cloud computing. We present and compare the results of using these two different kinds of technology in security courses from aspects such as acceptance, convenience, cost, performance and security.
Earth Radiation Budget Satellite (ERBS) orbiting profiles and NiCd use

Abstract The Earth Radiation Budget Satellite (ERBS) is one of the more recently launched satellites of the Goddard Space Flight Center. This paper presents the flight data of the two 50 A h NASA standard batteries that are being flown on the ERBS. Trend characteristics of the batteries were collected over a period of two years. The parameters that were followed are: the battery end-of-discharge voltage, time in peak power track and time in constant current mode. All were plotted versus mission elapsed time. The slopes exhibited by the parameters indicate no adverse trends that would signify any appreciable degradation in the batteries.
Ionic conduction and mixed cation effect in silicate glasses and liquids : 23Na and 7Li NMR spin-lattice relaxation and a multiple-barrier model of percolation

Abstract The mixed cation effect in glasses affects transport properties such as diffusion and ionic conductivity. The temperature dependence of 7Li and 23Na NMR spin-lattice relaxation times, T1, have been measured in a series of trisilicate (Na2Si3O7, NaRbSi3O7, NaCsSi3O7 and NaCa0.5Si3O7) and disilicate (Li2Si2O5, LiKSi2O5 and LiBa0.5Si2O5) glasses in order to understand the atomic scale mechanism of this effect. Diffusion-induced NMR spin-lattice relaxation of alkali cations is shown to be affected by a mixed cation effect which tends to shift the T1 minimum to a higher temperature and increases the slope of the T1 vs. 1000 T curve on the low temperature side of the minimum. These changes are consistent with an effective reduction in the number of hopping sites available to the alkali cation in a mixed cation glass. As a result the high energy cutoff for percolation in a disordered barrier height landscape increases significantly on going from a single alkali to a mixed alkali (or, alkali-alkaline earth) glass. The dc conductivities calculated on the basis of a random walk model with different percolation thresholds for single and mixed alkali glasses are in reasonably good agreement with the experimental results. This interpretation of the NMR spin-lattice relaxation results, thus, successfully combines the two recent models — that of Svare et al. on the general relationship between ionic transport and spin-lattice relaxation and of Maass et al. on mixed alkali effect resulting from strong energetic preference for hopping associated with percolation transition. In addition, the mixed alkali effect can be generalized to mixed alkali-alkaline earth systems.
Preproenkephalin mRNA and methionine-enkephalin increase in mouse striatum after 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine treatment.

: Dopaminergic neurons that project to the striatum from the substantia nigra are thought to modulate methionine-enkephalin (Met-Enk) metabolism in the striatum. We administered a dose of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) that produces a moderate depletion of dopamine in striatum, about 50%, without overt motor deficits, and found that Met-Enk-like immunoreactivity and preproenkephalin mRNA content increased in the tissue. Pretreatment with the monoamine oxidase B inhibitor deprenyl or the dopamine transport blocker nomifensine prevented these changes, suggesting that the changes were related to the partial loss of dopaminergic neurons rather than to MPTP. Moreover, administering GM1 ganglioside, which partially restores the MPTP-induced dopaminergic deficit, partially corrected the Met-Enk changes in the striatum as well. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that dopaminergic input to the striatum, in part, modulates Met-Enk metabolism. Moreover, they show that moderate nigrostriatal lesions are sufficient to elevate Met-Enk and preproenkephalin mRNA contents and that restoration of dopaminergic function, as in our studies with GM1 ganglioside, restores the content of Met-Enk.
Brain on steroids resists neurodegeneration

A single injection of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone can delay the onset of neurological symptoms, decrease neuronal cell death and double the lifespan of mice with Niemann–Pick type C disease ( pages 704–711 ).
Financial innovation and risk sharing

Part 1 Financial innovation - an overview: history and institutions industrial organization approaches to innovation an outline of our theory other approaches and future research. Part 2 Models of financial innovation and risk sharing: optimal security design arbitrage, short sales and financial innovation incomplete markets and incentives to set up an options exchange the efficient design of public debt, Douglas Gale standard securities, Douglas Gale the changing nature of debt and equity - a financial perspective, Franklin Allen.
Emory Bogardus and the Origins of the Social Distance Scale

This article provides some history of sociology by focusing on the origins of the Bogardus Social Distance Scale. The scale was developed by Emory Bogardus in 1924 and is still widely used in measuring prejudice. It has been translated into several languages, and used in many countries in measuring attitudes toward a variety of groups. The authors use primary and secondary data, including an interview with one of Bogardus’s colleagues, Thomas Lasswell, and the Bogardus archive at the University of Southern California. American racial and ethnic conflict, and the increasing scientific emphasis in sociology help explain the genesis of the scale. The personal biography of Bogardus is examined along with trends in sociology during his training at the University of Chicago and developments throughout American society. This study shows how the social environment of Bogardus influenced his personal life circumstances that help account for his creation of the scale.
Variation and taxonomic clarification of the large species of the Leptodactylus pentadactylus species group (Amphibia: Leptodactylidae) from Middle America, Northern South America, and Amazonia

Variation of external morphology features and advertisement calls are analyzed for species currently identified as Leptodactylus knudseni, L. labyrinthicus, L. myersi, and L. pentadactylus from Middle America, the Pacific versants of Colombia and Ecuador, northern South America, greater Amazonia, and the corridor of open formations from Argentina to northeastern Brazil. Although there is noticeable geographic variation between eastern and western samples of L. knudseni, the variation is considered to be intraspecific in nature. Geographic variation within L. labyrinthicus is more pronounced and most consistent with recognizing three species: L. labyrinthicus (Spix, 1824), L. turimiquensis new species, and L. vastus A. Lutz, 1930. No new data are available for variation within L. myersi, which had previously been noted as possibly containing two species. Variation within L. pentadactylus is also pronounced and most consistent with recognizing four species: L. pentadactylus (Laurenti, 1768), L. peritoaktites new species, L. rhodomerus new species, and L. savagei new species. Some specimens that had been identified in collections as either L. knudseni or L. labyrinthicus from the Brazilian State of Para are considered to represent an undescribed species, herein described as L. paraensis new species. Standard simple statistical tests of significance for sexual dimorphism in members of the study group may not indicate biological significance. Adult morphological and advertisement call differentiation patterns among the species recognized in this paper do not provide completely reliable information for identifying the species involved, suggesting a different pattern of differentiation than occurs in the Leptodactylus fuscus species group. Larval morphological variation and habitat differentiation may be important in the evolution of species differentiation in the taxa dealt with in this paper.
Hoarding disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder show different patterns of neural activity during response inhibition.

Abstract Although hoarding disorder (HD) has been historically conceptualized as a subtype or dimension of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), preliminary evidence suggests that these two disorders have distinct neural underpinnings. The aim of the present study was to compare the hemodynamic responses of HD patients, OCD patients, and healthy controls (HC) during response inhibition on a high-conflict Go/NoGo task that has previously proved sensitive to OCD. Participants comprised 24 HD patients, 24 OCD patients, and 24 HCs who completed a Go/NoGo task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Although behavioral data showed no difference among the groups in Go/NoGo task performance, significant differences in hemodynamic activity were noted. During correct rejects (successful response inhibition), HD patients showed greater right precentral gyrus activation, whereas OCD patients exhibited greater right orbitofrontal activation, as assessed using a region of interest approach. During errors of commission (response inhibition failures), OCD patients, but not HD patients, were characterized by excessive activity in left and right orbitofrontal gyrus. The present results lend further support to the biological distinction between HD and OCD, and they are consistent with previous research suggesting frontal hypoactivity in HD patients during hoarding-unrelated tasks.
Genetic counseling following the detection of hemoglobinopathy trait on the newborn screen is well received, improves knowledge, and relieves anxiety.

Purpose: The primary purpose of newborn screening for hemoglobinopathies is the presymptomatic diagnosis and early treatment of sickle cell disease. Hemoglobinopathy traits detected on the newborn screening provide an opportunity for genetic counseling of families regarding the trait and information that may impact reproductive decisions of the parents. We describe the results of a study to determine the impact of newborn screening and genetic counseling on the lives of families in which an abnormal hemoglobin trait had been identified. Methods: From June 2003 to December 2009, families of children with trait attending a clinic visit and receiving professional genetic counseling were asked to participate in a semistructured follow-up survey regarding their experience and the impact of genetic counseling on their families. Results: Of the 300 patients seen in clinic during the specified time period, 209 consented to be recontacted and 114 have completed the survey. Eighty-five percent of responders reported knowing that the newborn screen had been performed, but only 55% understood the purpose of newborn screening. When asked about the effect of finding out that trait was present in their baby, 19% reported feeling guilty or upset, whereas 4% believed that their partner blamed them for the child’s results. That genetic counseling was found to be beneficial was indicated by the fact that 99% reported that their questions were answered, 82% reported feeling less anxious, and 78% discussed the trait with their partner after the appointment. Conclusions: Genetic counseling after newborn screening relieves anxiety, provides knowledge, facilitates dialog within families and between partners about hemoglobinopathy trait, and was seen as a positive experience for the majority of responders. Genet Med 2011:13(7):658–661.
Modeling dynamic brittle behavior of materials with circular flaws or pores

Abstract Compressive failure of brittle materials is driven primarily by crack growth from pre-existing flaws in the material. These flaws, such as grain boundaries, pores, preexisting cracks, inclusions and missing grains, are randomly spaced and have a range of possible shapes and sizes. The current work proposes a micromechanics-based model for compressive dynamic failure of brittle materials with circular pore flaws, which incorporates both the number density and the size distribution of flaws. Results show that the distribution of flaw sizes is very important, particularly at moderate strain rate, since analyses based solely on the mean flaw size overpredict strength. Therefore, in order to increase dynamic strength at low to moderate strain rates, it is most effective to control the presence of large flaws. At very high strain rates, however, crack growth is activated even in small flaws and therefore controlling the total number density rather than the size of the flaws is effective for increasing dynamic strength. Finally, the model shows that neglecting very small flaws in the pore population may not have significant effects on the results in many cases, suggesting that the model is a useful tool for identifying a minimum resolution required for experimental characterization of microstructure.
THE EFFECT OF RADIOACTIVE RADIATIONS AND X-RAYS ON ENZYMES : II. THE EFFECT OF RADIATIONS FROM RADIUM EMANATION ON PEPSIN IN SOLUTION.

Pepsin in solution is inactivated by the radiations (beta and gamma) from radium emanation. This chemical effect has been studied quantitatively. The principles involved in this radiochemical reaction are apparently the same as those found in the case of trypsin previously reported; namely, the change in the logarithm of the concentration of active enzyme varies directly with the variable, W.
Analysis of the liquid phase during the course of crystallization of zeolite Y using an isothermal centrifugal separation technique

During the course of crystallization of zeolite Y, the liquid phase was separated centrifugally and isothermally. Excess Na+ ions were detected on the surface of the solid portion and decreased with increasing crystallinity. About 21 Na+ ions/192 T sites for amorphous precursor and 1–3 Na+ ions/192 T sites for well-crystallized Y were detected.
Nucleosomal organization of a BPV minichromosome containing a human H4 histone gene.

To address the relationship between chromatin structure and histone gene expression, the nucleosomal organization of a cell cycle-dependent human H4 histone gene in a bovine papilloma virus (BPV) minichromosome was examined. The nucleosome repeat length of the human H4 histone gene, maintained as a stable episome in a C127 mouse cell line designated 1–8 [1], was compared with that of the chromosomal copy of the H4 gene in human (HeLa) cells. In both cell lines, the H4 histone gene is predominantly expressed during the S phase of the cell cycle. The nucleosome repeat length of total HeLa cell and C127 mouse cell chromatin was similarly examined. Nuclei were digested with micrococcal nuclease and the DNA was fractionated electrophoretically, transferred to nitrocellulose filters and hybridized with radiolabelled (32P) cloned DNA probes. The nucleosome repeat length of the H4 gene, as an episome in the C127 mouse cell (153 ± 8) and as an integrated copy in a HeLa cell (163 ± 10) was considerably shorter than total genomic host cell (C127) (190 ± 5) or HeLa cell chromatin (183 ± 7). Our results indicate that the episomal H4 histone gene is packaged as chromatin. Moreover, the shortened nucleosome repeat length of the H4 gene, both as an episome or integrated chromosome sequence, suggests that the repeat length is characteristic of the gene and may be functionally related to its cell cycle regulated expression.
Selective, bead-based global peptide capture using a bifunctional cross-linker.

Peptides are important species for a variety of biological functions. Detection and analysis of these molecules can be complicated by the presence of background matrix or contaminants. Therefore, a selective method to capture peptides could provide researchers with an option to isolate these remarkable species. Our goal was to perform a set of experiments that would validate the concept of a novel, selective peptide capture, whereby peptides are isolated on functionalized magnetic beads through the use of the heterobifunctional cross-linker, Sulfo-LC-SPDP. Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used to monitor mass changes associated with the cross-linking reaction. MALDI-TOF MS was then used to monitor conjugation between the cross-linked peptides and sulfhydryl magnetic beads by analyzing supernatant solutions for the presence or absence of cross-linked peptide. Through these experiments, we have proof of concept data confirming that peptides can ...
Negotiated spaces and contested terrain: men, women, and the law in colonial Zimbabwe, 1890–1939

During the early years of European occupation in Southern Rhodesia, people on the margins of African society took advantage of the erosion of indigenous authority structures. Women, in particular, challenged male control over their mobility, sexuality, and productive and reproductive capacities. Initially, a degree of female ‘emancipation’ was encouraged by European missionaries and the colonial state, who considered such customs as child‐pledging, forced marriage, and polygamy to be ‘repugnant’ to European concepts of morality. During the first three decades of colonial rule, legislation was enacted that outlawed child marriages, set limitations on bridewealth, and prohibited the marriage of women without their consent. The resulting crisis of authority in the rural areas, foreshadowing the possibility of a total breakdown in law and order, forced state officials to reconsider their earlier policies. By the 1920s, a backlash against female emancipation was well under way, intensifying under the pressures...
A Balance between Navel-gazing and Considering the Rest of the World

Hawk asks us to look outward and reminds us of our human nature, in that we tend to solve problems by looking through the lenses with which we wish to see the world. She suggests that by using the lens of vitalism in a responsible manner, we may provide better patient care and contribute to new knowledge. Her discussion also implies that philosophy and science are innately intertwined. The benefits of using vitalism should be considered as the chiropractic profession continues to pursue its scientific research agenda.
Sex-stereotyped traits, physical attractiveness, and interpersonal attraction.

Two distinct categories of information operative in interpersonal situations are what a person “looks like” and what the person “acts like.” The former can be represented by degree of physical attractiveness. The latter can be summarized in terms of personality traits, classified according to the degree to which they are typically seen as masculine or feminine. The present research assessed the effects of simultaneously manipulating these two variables on different measures of heterosexual interpersonal attraction. The basic procedure involved college students' reading an elaborate context story from which ratings of hypothetical stimulus persons, in both “working partner” and “marital partner” contexts, emerged. The physical attractiveness of the hypothetical person was varied by means of facial photographs, and the person's trait description was manipulated for degree of sex-stereotype loading on the basis of “sex-stereotype index” values for adjectives. In both experiments subjects strongly preferred p...
Preserving Individualism in the Organizational Society: "Cooperation" and American Medical Practice, 1900-1920

De 1900 a 1920, les medecins americains associent leurs competences et leurs experiences pour former des groupes multispecialises, cooperer ensemble et prevenir ainsi toute forme de competition et d'individualisme
On Cathars, Albigenses, and good men of Languedoc: [Journal of Medieval History, 2001, 27(2) 181–195]

This essay proposes a re-evaluation of how Cathars, Albigenses, and the heresy of the good men are studied. It argues that some commonplace notions about the Cathars, virtually unaltered for over a hundred years, are far from settled — especially when inquisition records from Languedoc are taken into account. This historiography rests upon an intellectualist and idealist bias, that, in the end, unwittingly restricts the historical imagination. This essay, by looking at some implications of this methodological tendency, suggests how the history of the Cathars, Albigenses, and the good men might be rethought.
The enhancement of xylose monomer and xylotriose degradation by inorganic salts in aqueous solutions at 180 °C

Abstract The inorganic salts KCl, NaCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, and FeCl3, and especially the latter, significantly increased xylose monomer and xylotriose degradation in water heated to 180 °C with unaccountable losses of xylose amounting to as high as 65% and 78% for xylose and xylotriose, respectively, after 20 min incubation with 0.8% FeCl3. Furthermore, losses of both xylose and xylotriose were well described by first order homogeneous kinetics, and the rate constants for xylose and xylotriose disappearance increased 6- and 49-fold, respectively, when treated with 0.8% FeCl3 solution compared to treatment with just pressurized hot water at the same temperature. Although the addition of these inorganic salts produced a significant drop in pH, the degradation rates with salts were much faster than could be accounted for by a pH change. For example, the rate constants for the disappearance of xylose and xylotriose with 0.8% FeCl3 were 3-fold and 7-fold greater, respectively, than for treatment with very dilute sulfuric acid at the same pH. In addition, xylose losses were greater than could be accounted for by just furfural production, suggesting that other degradation products were also formed, and xylose losses to unidentified compounds increased significantly with the addition of FeCl3. The unidentified compounds could be formed through aqueous furfural resinification and condensation reactions that are accelerated by FeCl3, but the actual mechanisms are still not clear.
Early medical abortion with methotrexate: Outcome and satisfaction among women aged 15–20 years

Abstract Background: We investigated the outcomes of women under age 21 who participated in a multi-center case series of early medical abortion using methotrexate and misoprostol. Methods: We enrolled 1973 women in a case series for medical abortion in the first seven weeks of pregnancy, using a standardized protocol and consent for methotrexate (50 mg/m 2 ) and misoprostol (800 mg vaginally, repeated as needed). For this study, women who presented for abortion prior to their 21 st birthday were compared to older women. Outcomes of abortion were classified as complete medical abortion (CMA) and suction curettage (SC). Secondary outcomes included symptoms. We did an exit interview assessing patient satisfaction during the first year of the study, and have exit interview data for approximately half of the women enrolled. We assessed the relationship of age and outcomes first by bivariate analysis using SAS (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC). A multiple logistic regression model was constructed using age, gestational age, and measures of parity. Results: There were 219 women who were under 21 (18 under the age of 18). Compared to older women, adolescents presented for abortion at the same gestational ages. Compared to older women, younger women were less likely to have finished college (2.8% vs. 38.7%), and were less likely to have had previous pregnancies (45.4% vs 76.6%) and live births (20.2% vs. 51.3%) The distribution of symptoms during abortion, such as bleeding and cramping, was the same across age groups; the only symptom which was more frequently found in younger women was headache. Overall younger women had a slightly higher rate of CMA as older women (90.2% vs. 86.5%). However, the multiple regression (MR) model did not show an effect of the woman's age on CMA. MR demonstrated an adverse effect of prior live birth, and advancing gestational age on rates of CMA; younger women were less likely to have had prior live births. Younger women were just as likely to report overall satisfaction (86.7% vs. 84.6%) with the abortion procedure and other questions of satisfaction, but were less likely to agree that the bleeding and cramping were acceptable. Conclusions: Younger women having medical abortion with methotrexate and misoprostol have similar outcomes and satisfaction levels as do older women. There is no reason to discourage adolescents who seek abortion from using a medical technique.
Achromatic Wave Plates for the Visible Spectrum

We report the experimental demonstration of an optical quarter-wave plate having a retardation of 90°±1° in the region from 4000 to 8000 A. The device is based on the synthesis procedure of Harris, Ammann, and Chang and consists of six sapphire wave plates with appropriately oriented principal axes. The device does not suffer from thermal or angular problems as do longer, narrow-band birefringent networks. Results comparing a 10-plate unit with the above 6-plate unit are given.
Health Problems of Mexican and American Workers at Three Maquilas in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico

With the increase in numbers of American companies opening plants on the Mexican side of the border (maquilas), comes an increase in daily contact among workers from a developed country and workers from a developing country. Reviews of medical consultation reports in three twin plants indicate a high incidence of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory disorders, and headaches. Respiratory problems were more prevalent in winter months (54-89% incidence), and gastrointestinal complaints soared in summer (65-77% incidence). White collar workers with greater education consistently had high incidences of gastrointestinal and respiratory problems. Health professionals on both sides of the border should be aware of the possibilities for transmitting these diseases from one country to another.
Identification of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease Using a Stress‐Free Signal Variance Cardiograph Through Analysis of Temporal Heterogeneity

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is associated with a small but measurable amount of electrical disorganization, which may appear as temporal electrical heterogeneity on the electrocardiogram and is not visible with the low resolution, 12-lead electrocardiogram. A newly developed, multilead, high-fidelity variance cardiograph captures the heterogeneity component of the electrocardiograph signal. The subsequent analysis produces an electrical heterogeneity index (EHI) by quantifying phase-invariant electrical disorganization, which represents cardiac abnormalities that are modulated onto the measured high frequency electrocardiogram. A prospective investigation was conducted to determine the predictive accuracy of the variance cardiograph to detect clinically important CAD. Methods: Sixty-five patients (group I) with documented CAD were given the variance cardiography test, as well as 21 normal volunteers (group II). An EHI >; 75 from the variance cardiograph was determined to best represent a positive test for clinically important CAD. Results: Group I had a mean EHI of 89.5 ± 19.7, while group II had a mean EHI of 61.1 ± 19.1 (P < 0.001). The variance cardiograph had a sensitivity of 79%, a specificity of 76%, a positive predictive value of 91%, and a negative predictive value of 55%. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that analysis of the temporal electrical heterogeneity component of the electrocardiographic signal obtained by the variance cardiograph provides a new and reliable stress-free test For the detection of CAD.
Examining Teacher Grades Using Rasch Measurement Theory

In this study, we present an approach to questionnaire design within educational research based on Guttman's mapping sentences and Many-Facet Rasch Measurement Theory. We designed a 54-item questionnaire using Guttman's mapping sentences to examine the grading practices of teachers. Each item in the questionnaire represented a unique student scenario that was graded by teachers. Three focus groups of elementary (N = 5), middle (N = 4), and high school (N = 2) teachers examined the scenarios for clarity, comprehensiveness, and ease of understanding. Based on the suggestions of the focus groups, the revised questionnaires were completed by 516 public school teachers located in a major metropolitan county in the Southeast. The grades assigned by the teachers to the scenarios were analyzed using the FACETS computer program. The results of the analyses suggest that teachers primarily assign grades on the basis of student achievement as expected, although for some teachers other facets (ability, behavior, and effort) may play a role in final grade assignment.
Negotiations with the Animate Forest: Hunting Shrines in the Guatemalan Highlands

Ethnoarchaeological research at highland Maya hunting shrines documents the material remains of interactions between two types of animate beings: humans and the forest. When either active agent enters the others’ domain there are accompanying ceremonial activities to assuage the inherent danger, often leaving physical traces in the material record. These traces, if found in the archaeological record, might reveal similar ancient interactions. Using the material correlates of modern hunting rituals, we explore the utility of ethnoarchaeological research in identifying negotiations with non-human agents associated with the animate forest – an active agent in many societies.
Application of negative electron affinity materials to imaging devices

Recent advances in materials technology, activation technology, and device technology have brought to fruition practical imaging devices utilizing NEA photoemitters. This paper describes the characteristics of proximity-focused image tubes utilizing large-area semitransparent, single-crystal III-V photocathode structures. Since the spectral response of the photocathode is determined by choice of the material used as the photoemitting layer, specific choices allow optimization for specific applications; e.g., laser illuminators. The material selection criteria and methods of fabricating the photocathode material structure will be discussed.
The Changing Landscape of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare but devastating neurologic disease that affects the immunosuppressed population. The etiologic agent is a polyomavirus, JC virus—a double-stranded DNA virus with a high prevalence of infection globally. PML is believed to occur from reactivation of the latent virus infection caused by immunosuppression. After 1980, a dramatic increase in the incidence and prevalence of PML was attributed to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, with a decline noted after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). Newer populations are being added to the risk pool for the development of PML with the introduction of biologic agents that target specific arms of the immune system. Natalizumab and efalizumab seem to have the highest risk for the development of PML, although PML can develop with the other biologic agents. As more patients are treated with these agents, effective risk mitigation strategies are needed to prevent PML.
POLICY ISSUES IN MANAGING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

This symposium examines several public policy and management issues that are important to economic development. The symposium introduction paper consists of two major sections. The introduction section provides a brief review of the literature related to economic development management. The second section summarizes the major issues and findings emphasized in each symposium paper.
Nonclinical Toxicological Evaluation of Occidiofungin, a Unique Glycolipopeptide Antifungal

Occidiofungin, a glycolipopeptide obtained from the liquid culture of Burkholderia contaminans MS14, has been identified as a novel fungicide. The present study was designed to initially assess the in vitro toxicity in a rat hepatoma (H4IIE) cell line and acute toxicological effects of occidiofungin using a mouse model. In vitro toxicity was observed in all variables at 5 μmol/L. B6C3F1 mice were given single and repeat doses of occidiofungin up to 20 mg/kg. Key effects were a reduction in body and organ weights. However, no significant decrease in body weight was noted at a dose of 1 mg/kg, which is comparable to the dose level of other cyclic glycopeptide antifungal agents currently approved for human use. Microscopic examination of treated mice did not identify any signs of organ-specific toxicity at the dose levels tested.
Changes in sphingolipid levels induced by epidermal growth factor in osteoblastic cells. Effects of these metabolites on cytosolic calcium levels.

Abstract Sphingolipids mediate a number of cellular functions in a variety of cell systems. The role they play in osteoblast signaling is yet unknown. This study investigated the effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the levels of ceramide, sphingosine (SPH), and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in rat calvariae osteoblastic cells, and whether these metabolites mediated cytosolic calcium ([Ca 2+ ] I ) mobilization in these cells. EGF significantly ( P ⪡0.05) increased the levels of all three sphingolipids, and the phorbol ester PMA partially inhibited these effects. SPH and S1P markedly increased [Ca 2+ ] I levels, with thapsigargin (depletes [Ca 2+ ] I pools) decreasing the response by 60%. Verapamil (calcium channel blocker) only inhibited ceramide's effects on [Ca 2+ ] I . Furthermore, SPH enhanced the EGF' induced increase in [Ca 2+ ] I . This study demonstrates that ceramide, SPH and S1P mediate [Ca 2+ ] I mobilization in rat calvarial osteoblastic cells, and that EGF induces changes in the levels of these metabolites with PKC playing an important role in the mechanisms regulating these events.
Is telemetry monitoring necessary in low-risk suspected acute chest pain syndromes?

Background Non-ICU telemetry monitoring has proven to be a valuable resource for patients suspected of having an acute myocardial infarction. While a significant number of patients are admitted to these units, the actual incidence of events or interventions is low. Objective To identify a subset of patients in whom telemetry monitoring does not alter management. Design Prospective observational study. Setting Large tertiary care facility. Patients A total of 414 patients consecutively admitted from the emergency department for suspected acute coronary syndromes were studied. Patients were excluded if they presented with ST-segment elevations, were revascularized on hospital admission, were admitted to a surgical service, were transferred from another floor or unit, or remained in the emergency department for the course of the stay. Outcomes Events were defined as development of myocardial infarction, episodes of chest pain, new or rapid atrial arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, any form of AV nodal block, and asystole. Intervention or change in management was any increase, decrease, or change in medication, cardioversion, electrophysiology study, or transfer to the ICU. Results Patients who had atypical chest pain and normal ECG findings were significantly less likely to have both intervention and events (4 interventions vs 23 interventions [p Conclusion Patients with atypical chest pain and normal ECG findings represent a subset of patients with low risk for life-threatening arrhythmia. Use of telemetry monitoring in this subset of patients should be reevaluated.
Families of ergodic and exact one-dimensional maps

We give a parametrized family of rational interval maps of degree two, each ergodic, exact and preserving a measure equivalent to a Lebesgue measure. The family includes the unique quadratic Chebyshev polynomial as its only polynomial map. We extend the family to other settings on the circle and real line. We also give numerical approximations to the entropy of the equivalent invariant measure and the Hausdorff dimension of the singular measure of maximal entropy.
Transfemoral temporary pacing and deep vein thrombosis

The incidence of deep vein thrombosis following transfemoral temporary pacing was prospectively assessed in 20 consecutive patients using serial 125I-fibrinogen scanning, impedance plethysmography, and measurements of fibrin degradation products. Four patients underwent venography. Of the twenty patients, five (25%) had definite evidence of deep vein thrombosis, six demonstrated equivocal abnormalities, and nine had no evidence of thrombosis. Thrombosis was found only in the legs used for pacing. Of the five with deep vein thrombosis, one had positive findings in all the noninvasive tests. Venography confirmed the diagnosis in the other four; one had thrombosis of the femoral vein, one had thrombosis of several calf veins, and one had thrombosis of both the thigh and calf veins; the fourth patient had thrombosis of the entire deep venous system of the leg. This latter patient was the only one who had clinical evidence of venous thrombosis. The patients with deep vein thrombosis did not differ in clinical characteristics from those without thrombosis. There was no relationship between the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis and the number of venepunctures, the state of the electrode, the presence of the introducer sheath in the femoral vein, or the duration of pacing. In conclusion, deep vein thrombosis is a common complication of transfemoral temporary pacing and the high incidence of its occurrence should be considered before deciding upon the site of entry for a temporary pacemaker.
Bleomycin, vincristine, mitomycin-C, and cisplatin in the management of gynecological squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract Twenty-one patients with squamous carcinoma of the genital tract were treated with bleomycin, Oncovin, mitomycin-C and cisplatin (BOMP). Six patients received BOMP as primary therapy. Five of six responded with one patient having an autopsy-proven complete response after treatment for a disseminated adenosquamous carcinoma. Eight patients were treated for early recurrence, none responded. Seven patients were treated for late recurrences and one responded. We believe that BOMP has significant potential for primary treatment, but not for early or late recurrent disease.
Far-Field Diffraction Patterns of Single and Multiple Apertures Bounded by Arcs and Radii of Concentric Circles*†

Some equations are derived for computing the form of the far-field diffraction pattern of an aperture bounded by arcs and radii of concentric circles whose dimensions are large compared with the wavelength of the incident radiant flux and over which the amplitude and phase are constant. These equations are derived in such a way that it is possible not only to compute the form of the far-field diffraction pattern of individual apertures bounded by arcs and radii of concentric circles, but also for combinations of such apertures over which the amplitudes and phases are constant but differ from aperture to aperture. With the aid of an IBM 7090 computer, these equations have been used to compute the forms of the far-field diffraction patterns of a 60° sector aperture, a semicircular aperture, and an aperture formed by arcs and radii from concentric circles, and three-dimensional models have been constructed to describe the radiant flux distribution. A start has also been made on the more complicated problem of multiple apertures by computing the form of the far-field diffraction pattern of two adjacent semicircular apertures, over which the amplitudes and phases are constant in the two apertures, but the amplitudes in the two apertures have been assumed to be equal and the phases different. Some corresponding photographed far-field diffraction patterns are also included for comparison purposes and to illustrate the wide variety possible.
SIGNS OF EMOTION: WHAT CAN PREVERBAL CHILDREN "SAY" ABOUT INTERNAL STATES?

Do infants explicitly recognize feelings and emotions in themselves and others? What would preverbal children say about internal states if they had the words? Investigation of infants’ emotional understanding is limited by the challenge of understanding infant mental states before the onset of speech. I examined the use of symbolic gestures by normally hearing, preverbal children to discover whether infants and toddlers represent emotion concepts such as sad and scared, and feeling words such as sleepy. Participants were 22 children (5–28 months) in a childcare program where caregivers modeled symbolic gestures. Gesture use by children and caregivers were videotaped and coded to determine context, characteristics, and frequency. Twenty of 22 children used symbolic gestures; of these, 6 used emotion gestures, and 5 used feeling gestures. These gestures were not imitations of adult gestures, and qualitative data reveal their context and significance. Symbolic gestures reveal the sophistication of infants’ internal worlds and their ability and desire to communicate thoughts and feelings. Symbolic gestures are a promising methodology for investigating early explicit mental processes. As a therapeutic communication tool, symbolic gestures may help children express emotions, participate in conversations about emotion, and construct their own understanding of internal states.