cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of virtual atmospherics and functional qualities on the online gambler's experience

This study empirically tests a stimulus–organism–response S–O–R structural model that proposes that an online casino's atmospheric cues and functional qualities influence individuals' affective and cognitive responses, which in turn impact consumer behavioural intentions. Using self-reported data from a primarily US-based sample, analysed elements of the online gambling site stimulus included high and low task-relevant cues, financial trust, and gambling value. Demographic characteristics were found to moderate the relationship between the stimulus and internal satisfaction, with demographic group differences found among all stimulus constructs. Results emphasise the significant role that atmospherics and functional qualities play in generating positive behaviours from online gamblers, with additional implications in marketplace competitiveness and in responsible gambling practices.
Structural behavior and thermoelectric properties of the brownmillerite system Ca2(ZnxFe2−x)O5

Abstract The Ca2(ZnxFe2−x)O5 series was synthesized and characterized to determine the influence of zinc dopant on the brownmillerite structure for thermoelectric applications. All single-phase compounds exhibited Pnma symmetry at room temperature up to the solubility limit at x=0.10. High-temperature X-ray powder diffraction was used to show that the nature of the Pnma–Imma(0 0 γ)s00 transition in Ca2Fe2O5 is modified by the presence of zinc. While the Zn-free composition transitions to an incommensurate phase, the Zn-containing phases transition instead to a commensurate phase, Imma(0 0 γ)s00 with γ=1/2. Both the Neel temperature and the onset temperature of the Pnma–Imma(0 0 γ)s00 phase transition decreased with increasing zinc concentration. Rietveld analysis of the in situ diffraction pattern for the x=0 sample at 1300 °C demonstrates that the structure contains statistically disordered chain orientations as described by space group Imma. Thermoelectric properties were analyzed in air from 100 to 800 °C. The positive Seebeck coefficient revealed hole-type conduction for all compositions. Doped samples exhibited electrical conductivities up to 3.4 S/cm and thermal conductivity of 1.5 W/mK. Transport analysis revealed thermally activated mobility consistent with polaron conduction behavior for all compositions.
Microphotofluorometric assay for protoporphyrin in acidified acetone extracts of whole blood

Abstract A simple single-step microphotofluorometric procedure for the measurement of “free” protoporphyrin in acidified acetone extracts of whole heparinized blood is described. Duplicate analyses can be completed in 3 min. Thin-layer chromatography and spectrophotofluorometric measurements indicate that protoporphyrin is the substance being measured. Comparative measurements on split samples indicate that the acidified acetone method measures about one-seventh to one-eighth of the “free” protoporphyrin in erythrocytes of whole blood that is found by classical ethyl acetate-acetic acid-HCL extraction procedures. Nevertheless, an average of 72% of added protoporphyrin IX is recovered in acidified acetone in the presence of blood. Recombination experiments suggest that endogenous “free” protoporphyrin in normal and pathological samples of blood is distributed between the acetone solvent phase and cells in approximately the same ratio. A mean “normal” value of 7.58 ± 3.26 μg PROTO 100 ml of packed red blood cells was found in 34 nonanemic preschool children with ≦ 30 μg Pb 100 ml whole blood. This mean “normal” value approaches the detection limit of the method; however, the procedure was developed as a simple means of detecting increased levels of “free” protoporphyrin in capillary blood samples from young children with iron deficiency or increased lead absorption or both. In these conditions, values 5–100 times greater than normal are found. Serial measurements are useful in both diagnosis and treatment. The method gives reproducible results in the hands of persons without prior formal training in laboratory skills. If K3EDTA is used as anticoagulant, protoporphyrin is stabilized in blood, but a different calibration curve is required.
Determinants of outcomes in pancreatic surgery and use of hospital resources

Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NebraskaBackground and Objectives: Outcomes for patients undergoing major pancreatic surgery have improved, but a subset of patients thatsigniﬁcantly utilize more resources exists. Variables that can lead to an increase in resource utilization in patients undergoing pancreaticsurgery were identiﬁed.Methods: Patients undergoing pancreatic surgery for neoplasms were identiﬁed from the NSQIP database (2006–2008). Indices associatedwith increased resource utilization that we included were operative time (OT), length of stay (LOS), intraoperative RBC transfusion, return tooperating room, and occurrence of postoperative complications. Analysis of covariance and multivariable logistic regression were performed.Results: The 4,306 included patients had a median age of 66 years and 50.3% were males. The 30-day morbidity and mortality were 29.3%and 3.2%, respectively. Median OT was 362 min and median LOS was 10 days. Malignancy, neoadjuvant radiation, and medical co-morbid-ities were associated with increased OT (P < 0.0001 for all). Declining preoperative functional status was the most important predictor ofLOS (P < 0.0001). Age, male gender, hypertension, severe COPD, and higher BMI were signiﬁcantly associated with postoperative compli-cations (P < 0.050 for all).Conclusions: Morbidity after pancreatic surgery remains high. Age, obesity, performance status, medical co-morbidities, and neoadjuvantradiation affect outcomes and may lead to increased use of hospital resources.J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;104:634–640. 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activity-Dependent Transcriptional Regulation of M-Type (Kv7) K+ Channels by AKAP79/150-Mediated NFAT Actions

Summary M-type K + channels, encoded by KCNQ2–KCNQ5 genes, play key roles in regulation of neuronal excitability; however, less is known about the mechanisms controlling their transcriptional expression. Here, we discovered a mechanism regulating KCNQ2/3 transcriptional expression by neuronal activity in rodent neurons, involving activation of calcineurin and nuclear factor of activated T cell (NFAT) transcription factors, orchestrated by A kinase-anchoring protein (AKAP)79/150. The signal requires Ca 2+ influx through L-type Ca 2+ channels and both local and global Ca 2+ elevations. We postulate increased M-channel expression to act as a negative feedback to suppress neuronal hyperexcitability, demonstrated by profoundly upregulated KCNQ2/3 transcription in hippocampi from wild-type, but not AKAP150 −/− , mice after drug-induced seizures. Thus, we suggest a distinct role of AKAP79/150 and the complex it organizes in activity-dependent M-channel transcription, which may potentially serve throughout the nervous system to limit overexcitability associated with disease states such as epilepsy.
Prediction of orthodontic tooth movement

Orthodontics is rapidly advancing from the stage of fortuitous success to one of planned success. When appliance design is based on simple concepts of equilibrium, prediction of desirable and undesirable tooth movement becomes possible. The flow chart that has been presented allows the clinician to systematically treat dental discrepancies more effectively in potentially less treatment time, since the number of desirable and undesirable side effects can be known in advance and managed accordingly. Simple laws of equilibrium, based on a knowledge of the force systems required for specific tooth movement, also permit the design of proper preactivation bends for an appliance. The procedure may be enlarged to include treatment of each arch since, once the teeth are ideally positioned and rigidly held within each segment, each arch can be considered to consist of three "large, multirooted teeth."
Supersonic laminar flow development in a square duct

Supersonic laminar flow development in a constant-area square duct exhibits as one of its distinguishing features the formation of two contrarotating secondary flow vortices centered about the corner bisector. This phenomenon does not occur in unbounded corner flow. The secondary flow causes an outward bulging of total pressure contours in the vicinity of the corner bisector for wholly attached flow conditions.
Dinuclear Nickel Complexes in Five States of Oxidation Using a Redox-Active Ligand

Redox-active nitrogen donor ligands have exhibited broad utility in stabilizing transition metal complexes in unusual formal oxidation states and enabling multielectron redox reactions. In this report, we extend these principles to dinuclear complexes using a naphthyridine–diimine (NDI) framework. Treatment of (i-PrNDI) with Ni(COD)2 (2.0 equiv) yields a Ni(I)–Ni(I) complex in which the two metal centers form a single bond and the (i-PrNDI) ligand is doubly reduced. A homologous series of (i-PrNDI)Ni2 complexes in five oxidation states were synthesized and structurally characterized. Across this series, the ligand ranges from a neutral state in the most oxidized member to a dianionic state in the most reduced. The interplay between metal- and ligand-centered redox activity is interrogated using a variety of experimental techniques in combination with density functional theory models.
Hydrazine and hydroxylamine as possible intermediates in the biological fixation of nitrogen

Abstract Hydrazine and hydroxylamine are highly inhibitory to the fixation of N2 by cell-free extracts from Clostridium pasterianum. After cell-free extracts from C. pasteurianum had fixed 15N2 for short periods, hydrazine (as its benzalazine derivative) and hydroxylamine (as the copper salt of pyruvic oxime), were recovered with the aid of carrier hydrazine or hydroxylamine. Although the ammonia had concentrations of 15N as great as 32 atom% excess, the benzalazine and pyruvic oxime had no significant 15N excess. Hydrolysis to liberate possible bound forms of hydrazine and hydroxylamine did not alter these results. The data give no support to the concept that hydrazine or hydroxylamine serves as an intermediate in biological N2 fixation.
Evaluation of a training curriculum for prehospital trauma ultrasound

Abstract Background In the United States, ultrasound has rarely been incorporated into prehospital care, and scant descriptions of the processes used to train prehospital providers are available. Objectives Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of an extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) training curriculum that incorporated multiple educational modalities. We also aimed to determine if certain demographic factors predicted successful completion. Methods All aeromedical prehospital providers (APPs) for a Level I trauma center took a 25-question computer-based test to ascertain baseline knowledge. Questions were categorized by content and format. Training over a 2-month period included a didactic course, a hands-on training session, proctored scanning sessions in the Emergency Department, six Internet-based training modules, pocket flashcards, a review session, and remedial training. At the conclusion of the training curriculum, the same test and an objective structured clinical examination were administered to evaluate knowledge gained. Results Thirty-three of 34 APPs completed training. The overall pre-test and post-test means and all content and format subsets showed significant improvement ( p p = 0.045). Conclusion The implementation of a multifaceted EFAST prehospital training program is feasible. Significant improvement in overall and subset testing scores suggests that the test instrument was internally consistent and sufficiently sensitive to capture knowledge gained as a result of the training. Demographic variables were not predictive of test success.
The characterization model for rhetorical criticism of political image campaigns

(1973). The characterization model for rhetorical criticism of political image campaigns. Western Speech: Vol. 37, No. 2, pp. 75-86.
A Framework and Findings for Learning Based Project Reviews

This paper contributes a framework for project reviews. The emphasis of this paper is on how to increase the learning that occurs within project reviews. Typical projects view learning as a "lesson learned" session at the end of the project. We explore the organizational learning and project review literature to develop an integrated framework. Finding from working NASA and the Launch Services Program are used to demonstrate the framework. A project manager can use this paper to better understand project reviews.
MR imaging of demyelinating hypertrophic polyneuropathy

A 41-year-old woman presented with severe low back pain radiating down her legs and foot numbness. Neurologic examination was normal. MRI of her lumbosacral spine showed marked nerve root enlargement (figure). Motor nerve conduction studies showed conduction velocities (NCVs) in the 20–30 m/s range (tibial and fibular nerves). The only significant family history was a sister who also had …
Tuberculosis Testing: Physician Attitudes and Practice-Reply

Dr Cersonsky is not alone with his concerns about the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations. (Of note, new recommendations were published in the February 1996 issue of Pediatrics. 1 ) The purpose of our study 2 was not to take sides in supporting the recommendations or supporting the many practitioners who have not adhered to them but to highlight the gap between guideline recommendation and its implementation. As we stated, "In this age of practice guidelines and recommendations, we must remember that their usefulness is limited unless they are embraced and implemented by practicing physicians." 2 We hope that our study encourages dialogue with community physicians regarding the recommendations and would encourage response from the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases and other practitioners.
Internal flow structure description of slug flow-pattern in a horizontal pipe

Abstract Utility of the hot-film anemometry technique in describing the internal flow structure of a horizontal slug flow-pattern is discussed within the scope of intermittent nature of slug flow. It is shown that a single probe can be used for identifying the gas and liquid phases and for differentiating the large elongated bubble group from the small bubbles present in the liquid slug. Analyzing the nature of voltage signals, a signal processing scheme is developed for measurements of time-averaged void fractions of small and large bubbles as well as for the measurements of local mean axial velocity and turbulent intensity in the liquid phase. Some results of local measurements of time-averaged void fractions of small and large bubble groups, axial mean velocity and turbulent intensity are presented at relatively low and high gas and liquid flows for a horizontal slug flow-pattern in a 50.3 mm i.d. pipe.
Effects of acute ethanol administration on nocturnal pineal serotonin N-acetyltransferase activity

The effect of acute ethanol administration on pineal serotonin N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity, norepinephrine and indoleamine content was examined in male rats. When ethanol was administered in two equal doses (2 g/kg body weight) over a 4 hour period during the light phase, the nocturnal rise in NAT activity was delayed by seven hours. The nocturnal pineal norepinephrine content was not altered by ethanol except for a delay in the reduction of NE with the onset of the following light phase. Although ethanol treatment led to a significant reduction in nocturnal levels of pineal serotonin content, there was no significant effect upon pineal content of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). The data indicate that ethanol delays the onset of the rise of nocturnal pineal NAT activity.
A Study of Student Reaction to the Use of Minitab in an Introductory Statistics Course

Abstract Traditionally, the introductory statistics course, Principles of Statistics (STAT 101), at Iowa State University has been taught without reference to a statistical analysis computing package. Although important for the implementation of statistical techniques, a computer component has been perceived by instructors to take time away from the coverage of statistical topics. To gauge students' reactions to the usefulness of a statistical computing package, an experiment was conducted during the fall term of 1986. Volunteers from a STAT 101 class were randomly assigned to either a control group or a computer use group. Both groups filled out questionnaires at the beginning and end of the semester. During the semester, the computer use group had access to and instruction in the use of Minitab. This instruction was tied to homework and laboratory assignments for the course. This article presents results of this experiment. On the basis of the responses to the questionnaires, the value of a statistical ...
A new compound heterozygous frameshift mutation in the type II 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) gene causes salt-wasting 3 beta-HSD deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

We report a new compound heterozygous frameshift mutation in the type II 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) gene in a Pakistanian female child with the salt-wasting form of 3 beta-HSD deficiency congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The child, born with clitoral enlargement, manifesting salt-wasting adrenal crisis, and public hair growth during infancy, was treated with hormonal replacement therapy. The etiology of her congenital adrenal hyperplasia, however, was not defined. Two of her siblings, as well as one paternal cousin with ambiguous genitalia and palpable gonads and another paternal cousin with normal female genitalia, had symptoms of adrenal crisis and died during early infancy. Thus, although the family history suggested possible 3 beta-HSD deficiency disorder, suppressed adrenal function caused by excess glucocorticoid therapy in this child at 7 yr of age did not allow hormonal diagnosis. To confirm 3 beta-HSD deficiency, we sequenced the type II 3 beta-HSD gene in the patient, her fam...
Preferential rifting of continents: A source of displaced terranes

Lithospheric rifting, while prevalent in the continents, rarely occurs in oceanic regions. To explain this preferential rifting of continents, the total strength of different lithospheres is compared by integrating the limits of lithospheric stress with depth. Comparisons of total strength indicate that continental lithosphere is weaker than oceanic lithosphere by about a factor of three. Also, a thickened crust can halve the total strength of normal continental lithosphere. Because the weakest area acts as a stress guide, any rifting close to an ocean-continent boundary would prefer a continental pathway. This results in the formation of small continental fragments or microplates that, once accreted back to a continent during subduction, are seen as displaced terranes. In addition, the large crustal thicknesses associated with suture zones would make such areas likely locations for future rifting episodes. This results in the tendency of new oceans to open along the suture where a former ocean had closed.
A Meta-Analysis of Studies Comparing the Respiratory Route with the Subcutaneous Route of Measles Vaccine Administration

The respiratory tract has been suggested as an optimal alternative site to target measles vaccine delivery. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of measles vaccine administered through the respiratory route compared to the subcutaneous route. We analyzed 20 reported results from 16 eligible studies. Seroresponse was 4% higher amongst vaccinees in the respiratory group compared to the subcutaneous group (M-H pooled RR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.98-1.10). For vaccinees over 9 months of age, seroresponse was 15% higher in the respiratory group (M-H pooled RR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.08 to 1.17). When Edmonston Zagreb (EZ) strain was used, the vaccine was found to be neither more nor less efficacious when administered through respiratory route (M-H pooled RR=1.00; 95% CI = 0.94 to 1.08). Seroresponse in the vaccinees receiving aerosol measles vaccine was 10% higher (M-H pooled RR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.04-1.17) compared to those who received measles vaccine through the subcutaneous route. Seroresponse due to aerosolized EZ vaccine was 9% higher than subcutaneous EZ vaccine (M-H pooled RR = 1.09; 95% CI = 1.02-1.16). The seroresponse among seropositive vaccinees was 60% higher (M-H RR = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.40 to 1.80). The results suggest that the respiratory route of delivery of measles vaccine is at least as efficacious as measles vaccine administered through the subcutaneous route. However, more research is required on standardization of dosage, administration equipments, efficacy, and safety of respiratory (aerosol) route of administration of measles vaccine.
Cost-effectiveness of photodynamic therapy for high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus

Background Photodynamic therapy appears to be effective in ablating high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus. Our aim was to identify the most effective and cost-effective strategy for managing high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus without associated endoscopically visible abnormalities. Methods By using decision analysis, the lifetime costs and benefits of 4 strategies for which long-term data exist were estimated by us: esophagectomy, endoscopic surveillance, photodynamic therapy, followed by esophagectomy for residual high-grade dysplasia; and photodynamic therapy followed by endoscopic surveillance for residual high-grade dysplasia. It was assumed by us that there was a 30% prevalence of cancer in high-grade dysplasia patients and a 77% efficacy of photodynamic therapy for high-grade dysplasia and early cancer. Results Esophagectomy cost $24,045, with life expectancy of 11.82 quality-adjusted life years. In comparison, photodynamic therapy followed by surveillance for residual high-grade dysplasia was the most effective strategy, with a quality-adjusted life expectancy of 12.31 quality-adjusted life years, but it also incurred the greatest lifetime cost ($47,310) for an incremental cost-effectiveness of $47,410/quality-adjusted life years. The results were sensitive to post-surgical quality of life and survival, and to cancer prevalence if photodynamic therapy efficacy for cancer was less than 50%. Conclusions Photodynamic therapy followed by endoscopic surveillance for residual high-grade dysplasia appears to be cost effective compared with esophagectomy for patients diagnosed with high-grade dysplasia in Barrett's esophagus. Clinical trials directly comparing these strategies are warranted.
The monoclonal antibody A2B5 is specific to ganglioside GQ1c.

The neural specific monoclonal antibody A2B5 was found to interact with GQ1c but not with GQ1b, nor did it interact with other glycolipids such as GM1, GD1a, GD1b, GT1a, GT1b and GA1. Since GQ1c is enriched in embryonic chicken brains but not in adult chicken brains, this antibody should be useful as a tool in assessing the role of GQ1c in neuronal maturation.
A comparison of proximal and distal high‐frequency jet ventilation in an experimental animal model

High-frequency jet ventilation using either a proximal or a distal endotracheal injection site through a triple-lumen endotracheal tube was studied in 10 adult cats. The comparative effects on pulmonary gas exchange, tracheal pressure, heart rate, and blood pressure were examined for each injection site at both high (8-12 pounds per square inch [PSI] and low (5-8 PSI) jet-driving pressures in normal and lung-injured cats. Lung injury was created by modification of a surfactant washout technique previously demonstrated in rabbits. Alveolar ventilation (PaCO2) was found to be significantly better with distal than with proximal jet injection under all experimental conditions. At high jet-driving pressures, peak inspiratory pressure was higher in both normal (p = 0.03) and lung-injured cats (p = 0.002) with distal high-frequency jet ventilation. In addition, lung-injured animals were observed to have higher distal mean airway pressures at high jet-driving pressures (p less than 0.01). No differences in oxygenation were found in any circumstances. The results of this animal study suggest that distal high-frequency jet ventilation may be more effective in those situations in which improvement in alveolar ventilation is the major goal and that during proximal high-frequency jet ventilation airway pressures should be monitored as far distally as possible.
Transtracheal stimulation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve

Phonation was induced in 10 mongrel dogs under general anesthesia by way of transtracheal stimulation of the recurrent laryngeal nerves under conditions of constant air flow. Although stimulation voltages were approximately 10 times the voltage required for direct stimulation, no cardiac or respiratory abnormalities were observed. Photoglottographic and electroglottographic signals were the same for both direct and transtracheally induced phonation. This phonation induction method can be used in chronic animal preparations to study vocal fold vibration sequentially and may be clinically applied to the treatment of patients with laryngeal problems that have failed to respond, or are not amenable, to standard forms of vocal rehabilitation.
Control of an Acoustical Speaker System in a Reverberant Chamber

Acoustic testing using commercial sound system components is becoming more popular as a cost effective way of generating the required environment both in and out of a reverberant chamber. This paper will present the development of such a sound system that uses a state-of-the-art random vibration controller to perform closed-loop control in the reverberant chamber at Sandia National Laboratories. Test data will be presented that demonstrates narrow-band controlability, performance and some limitations of commercial sound generation equipment in a reverberant chamber.
Characterization of an oxytoc-ininduced rise in [Ca2+]i in single human myometrium smooth muscle cells

The effect of the uterotonic pituitary hormone oxytocin on the regulation of intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) was studied in single cells of a smooth muscle cell line derived from human non-pregnant myometrium. [Ca2+]i was measured with fluorescence microscopy, and by recording the activity of Ca(2+)-activated potassium currents (IK(Ca)) on the whole cell and single channel level. Oxytocin induced a rapid and transient increase in [Ca2+]i that was paralleled by a significant increase in IK(Ca) activity. After removal of extracellular Ca2+, repetitive stimulation with oxytocin did not alter the [Ca2+]i transients initially; however, their amplitude became progressively smaller and the response was eventually abolished completely, indicating that oxytocin increased [Ca2+]i by release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Nifedipine did not alter the oxytocin-induced [Ca2+]i-transients suggesting that oxytocin failed to activate Ca2+ entry through voltage-operated Ca2+ channels. Thapsigargin abolished the oxytocin-induced [Ca2+]i transient. Caffeine alone had no effect on [Ca2+]i, however it diminished the oxytocin-induced [Ca2+]i transients. Ryanodine did not affect the oxytocin response indicating that these cells lack release of Ca2+ from the ryanodine receptor release channel. These results demonstrate that oxytocin elicited [Ca2+]i transients predominantly through Ca2+ release from thapsigargin-sensitive stores, presumably by activating an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate dependent pathway.
Statistical Issues in Assessing Anthropogenic Background for Arsenic

Conceptual and statistical issues surrounding the estimation of a background concentration distribution for arsenic are reviewed. How background area is defined and samples collected are shown to impact the shape and location of the probability density function that in turn affects the estimation and precision of associated distributional parameters. The overall background concentration distribution is conceptualized as a mixture of a natural background distribution, an anthropogenic background distribution and a distribution designed to accommodate the potential for contamination site samples being included into the background sample set. This concept is extended to a discussion of issues surrounding estimation of natural and anthropogenic background distributions for larger geographic areas. Finally, the mixture model is formally defined and statistical approaches to estimating its parameters discussed.
PHARMACOLOGICAL COMPARTMENT VISCOSITY AND POLARITY MEASURED WITH VERY LOW-FREQUENCY EPR IN TUMORS OF LIVING ANIMALS

Quantitative measurements of the viscosity of a non-vascular pharmacological compartment in a living animal are presented. Using novel, very low-frequency electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, capable of measurements in humans, novel analytical techniques and partially deuterated spin probes, the viscosity of the body water of murine fibrosarcomas implanted in the leg of a living animal were measured. The average viscosity was 1.9 ± 0.2 cP. Variation of the viscosity with tumor size and histology did not appear to be significant.
Tennessee Williams's THE GLASS MENAGERIE

Critics have analyzed Tennessee Williams's use of classical literature and mythology in his plays, but no scholar has explored his inverted allusion in The Glass Menagerie to Julius Caesar's crossi...
Fibromuscular Dysplasia of the Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery

A 40-year-old man with no known past medical history was admitted for severe depression. A 12-lead electrocardiogram was obtained before electroconvulsive therapy, which revealed ST-segment elevations in V2 to V3. The patient denied any symptoms. Physical examination was unremarkable. Cardiac
Development of Fibrinolytic Proteins in Health and Disease

Beacuse of the propensity of newborn, especially low birth weight (LBW) infants, to bleeding and thrombosis, and the possibility of a fibrinolytic defect in the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), serum proteins of the fibrinolytic system were measured in healthy term and LBW infants and compared to maternal levels and levels in sick LBW infants with and without RDS. Levels of plasminogen (PLM), two antiplasmins, alpha-2-macroglobulin (α 2-MC) and alpha-1-antitrypsin (α 1-AT) and albumin and IgG globulin were measured by radial immunodiffusion on paired maternal-cord serum of 45 term newborns, 37 LBW well newborns, 28 LBW infants with RDS, 24 sick LBW infants without RDS, and 9 immature (< 0.8 kg) infants. Term infants had PLM levels of 45 ± 14 (1 standard deviation) mg/100 ml, compared to maternal levels of 90 ± 18 mg% and adult controls of 70 ± 7 mg%. Levels of α 2-MC and α 1-AT in term infant serum were 149 ± 35% (percent of standard serum) and 132 ± 37 mg%, respectively; in maternal serum 139 ± 43% and 262 ± 48 mg%; and in adult control serum 152 ± 34% and 133 ± 22 mg%. There were significant (p < 0.01) reductions of levels of α 2-MC and PLM with decreasing birth weight; no such relationship was noted for α 1-AT. Significant correlation existed between maternal and cord levels of albumin, IgG, PLM, α 1-AT and α 2-MC, suggesting transplacental passage of these proteins. No differences were noted in levels of PLM, α 1-AT in the RDS or other ill LBW infants. The relatively high levels of antiplasmins compared to plasminogen levels suggest impaired fibrinolysis at birth. These studies do not correlate well with prior functional studies of the fibrinolytic system, suggesting that poorly characterized activators and inhibitors play a major role in the regulaion of fibrinolysis.
Individual differences in alpha rhythm responsivity: Inter-task consistency and relationships to cardiovascular and dispositional variables

Abstract Individual differences in EEG alpha rhythm responsivity were examined with respect to: (1) consistency of response across cognitive tasks; (2) relationships to cardiovascular responsivity; and (3) relationships to dispositional variables. Inter-task correlations revealed a significant degree of stability in subjects' alpha responses to four ‘sensory rejection’ tasks: mental arithmetic, time estimation and imagining oneself as cold or warm. Individuals evidencing greater suppression of alpha activity during mental arithmetic also displayed greater heart rate increase and greater digital vasoconstriction, as well as obtaining higher scores on the Activity subscale of the EASI-III Temperament Survey and on the ‘Hard Striving’ subscale of the Jenkins Activity Survey for Health Prediction, a measure of the Coronary-Prone Behavior Pattern. Alpha responsivity in the time estimation and warm imagery tasks was also associated with greater heart rate increase. The results suggest that alpha responsivity is related to individual differences affecting one's attentiveness or involvement in experimental tasks.
Effects of calcium entry blockers on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, renal function and hemodynamics, salt and water excretion and body fluid composition

The renal effects of the calcium entry-blocking drugs diltiazem, nifedipine, verapamil and nitrendipine are reviewed. Although nifedipine stimulates plasma renin activity on a short-term basis, none of the calcium entry blockers produces a clinically significant sustained effect on any of the components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Although all of the calcium entry blockers effectively lower blood pressure, none adversely affects renal function; glomerular filtration rate and effective renal plasma flow are maintained. Diltiazem may increase glomerular filtration rate via attenuation of the intrarenal effects of angiotensin II or norepinephrine. Although diltiazem and nifedipine increase salt and water excretion on a short-term basis, none of the calcium entry blockers produces a clinically significant sustained effect on salt and water excretion; serum electrolytes, urinary sodium and potassium excretion, body fluid composition and body weight are unchanged. Thus, calcium entry blockers can be expected to assume a prominent role in the treatment of hypertension because of their ability to lower blood pressure while preserving renal perfusion and function.
An electron microscopic study of Cryptococcus neoformans (Coward strain).

Electron microscopic studies have confirmed that the Coward strain of C. neoformans porduces true hyphae characterized by branching and septa. The fungal bodies which possess capsules are indistinguishable from those of typical C. neoformans.
One-dimensional description of the average polycyclic aromatic unit in Pocahontas No. 3 coal: an X-ray scattering study

Abstract The radial distribution method was used to examine the non-crystalline portion of a low-volatile bituminous coal, Pocahontas No. 3, from Buchanan County, VA, USA. This coal, one of the Argonne Premium Coal Sample Program, was used as received for X-ray absorption/diffraction/scattering experiments. The diffraction due to the crystalline minerals contained in the coal and due to the graphene layering peak was removed from the amorphous scattering component. The latter was fitted to the self-scattering curve constructed from the scattering factor for carbon and the difference was Fourier transformed to obtain the one-dimensional structural details of the average short-range structural unit in this coal. Interpretation of the radial distribution indicates that the average structural unit is ∼ 80% aromatic and consists of polycyclic six-membered rings which are predominantly, if not exclusively, planar. In addition, the average graphene layer has a diameter of ∼ 7.7 A. The radial distribution function results compare favourably with those obtained by 13 C NMR spectroscopy.
Blood pressure and heart rate responses during 24-hour ambulatory monitoring and exercise in men with diabetes mellitus.

Abstract The heart rate (HR) variation of 25 normotensive and asymptomatic men, mean age 58 ± 7 years, with diabetes mellitus (group I) was studied during deep respiration. Thirteen subjects (52%) had a variation of 10 beats/min or less, consistent with an autonomic neuropathy (AN) (group IA); 12 had variation in HR of more than 10 beats/min and were considered to have no neuropathy (group IB). The 24-hour ambulatory HR and systolic blood pressure (BP) values of group I were compared with those of 13 healthy men, mean age 48 ± 8 years (group II). The mean of 5 maximal HR measurements during the 24-hour period was higher for group IA (106 ± 11 beats/min) than for group IB (100 ± 13 beats/ min) or for group II (92 ± 9 beats/min) (p Maximal treadmill exercise was performed with 22 of the patients (11 with and 11 without AN), and no difference in HR was observed between the 2 groups during all stages of exercise or at maximal exertion. The increase in systolic BP and duration of exercise in these 2 groups were also similar. Seventeen of 25 diabetic men had peripheral neuropathy (PN). Of 13 patients with AN, 10 had PN; of 12 without AN, 7 had PN and 5 did not. No differences were observed in maximal or minimal HRs on 24-hour monitoring, but the systolic BP was lower in those with PN (142 ± 19 mm Hg) than in those without PN (163 ± 40 mm Hg) (p Diabetic subjects, especially those with AN, have elevated diurnal HRs, possibly because of unopposed sympathetic drive. Systolic BPs in all diabetic subjects are higher except for those with PN. Patients with PN have lower systolic BPs on 24-hour monitoring and a decreased performance on exercise testing, possibly secondary to myocardial disease or occult sympathetic dysfunction.
CONSTRUCTING MESSAGES TO EXTRATERRESTRIALS : AN EXOSEMIOTIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract Discussions of constructing messages for communication with extraterrestrials have tended to fall into one of two extremes. The dominant position among astronomers and physicists is that conveying information between two civilizations will be relatively straightforward because both species will share basic conceptions of mathematics and science. Scholars in the humanities and social sciences typically contend the opposite: that even mathematics and science as we know them may be specific to humans, and that it may be impossible to develop systems of communication across species. A position between these two extremes is advanced in this paper. The “Incommensurability Problem” might be overcome by sending transmissions simulating natural phenomena themselves, rather than particular models of these phenomena. A semiotic analysis of the various possibilities for representing these phenomena suggests that icons, which bear physical resemblances to what they represent, will be superior to symbols, which are purely arbitrary. The implications of this intermediate position include the need for more intensive investigations of the linguistic aspects of SETI before a message is received, as well as the advantages of transmitting in addition to searching for signals.
The role of imbibition on seed selection by Harpalus pensylvanicus

Abstract Invertebrate weed seed predation is an important component of weed seed loss in agricultural fields. This study investigated the role of seed imbibition on the selection and consumption of the seeds of seven common agricultural weed species by Harpalus pensylvanicus De Geer, a granivorous carabid beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) that is found throughout North America. The volatile organic compounds released by ambient dry and imbibed weed seeds were quantified, and Y-tube bioassays were conducted to determine if H. pensylvanicus individuals responded to volatile compounds released from weed seeds. H. pensylvanicus individuals were found to consume higher masses of seeds for each weed species examined in imbibed versus ambient dry trials (P
Posterior pituitary adenylate cyclase: stimulation by dopamine and other agents

The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland contains dopaminergic and noradrenergic terminalsS,6, t4 as well as moderate levels of dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine is. In addition, the presence of receptors for DA in sheep posterior pituitary was indicated by binding studies employing [3H]-dihydroergocriptineS although negligible specific binding of another ligand, [3H]spiroperidol, was reported in a study of calf posterior pituitaryL A number of studies have suggested that monoamines and their receptors may be involved in the control of secretion of neurohypophysial hormones such as antidiuretic hormones (ADH) and oxytocin. Thus, a variety of agents including norepinephrine, epinephrine, reserpine, morphine, lithium chloride and antipsychotic drugs (e.g., chlorpromazine, perphenazine) which exert direct or indirect effect on monoaminergic transmission 4 influence ADH and oxytocin releasO1,12,15. Further, DA levels and release in the arcuate-median eminence DA cell group whose axons terminate in the posterior pituitary, are known to change following experimental manipulations (e.g., dehydration, suckling) affecting secretion of ADH and oxytocin~0,20. The levels of cyclic AMP in the posterior lobe are markedly elevated following acute treatment with reserpine, an amine depleting agent ~a, suggesting the possible presence of amine receptors linked to adenylate cyclase in the posterior pituitary. Also under conditions which increase ADH secretion in vivo, cyclic AMP levels in posterior pituitary are elevated 17. We report here the ability of DA, DA agonists and other agents to stimulate adenylate cyclase activity and a partial pharmacologic characterization of DA-stimulated adenylate cyclase in homogenates of rat posterior pituitary. Young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-300 g were sacrificed by decapitation and the posterior lobes of the pituitary glands rapidly dissected. The procedure used did not include separation of the intermediate lobe, although this tissue would represent only a minor component based on its relative tissue mass. The
Optimal Relay Node Fault Recovery

Topology control problems are concerned with the assignment of power levels to the nodes of an ad-hoc network so as to maintain a specified network topology while minimizing the energy consumption of the network nodes. A two-tiered network model has been proposed recently for prolonging the lifetime and improving the scalability in ad-hoc sensor networks. Such networks however may suffer from the failure of relay nodes causing the network to lose functionality. While considerable attention has been given to the issue of fault-tolerance in such networks, all of the prior work has been concerned with maintaining a 2-connected network. In this paper, we consider an alternative approach, namely optimal relay node fault recovery, in which the network topology is required to be just 1-connected and when a relay node fails, we replace that node with a new relay node that is placed in a position such that the power level assigned to the new node is optimal. In general this will not be the original node position or power assignment. We study three versions of optimal relay node fault recovery that vary in the degree to which the original network nodes can be reconfigured (i.e. have adjustments made to their power levels) when adding the new relay node into the network. For each version, we provide a polynomial time algorithm that provides an optimal placement and power assignment for the new relay node.
228.8 nm Photolysis of 1,1,1-trichloroethane

Abstract Room temperature photolysis of up to 100 Torr of 1,1,1-trichloroethane in the presence of iodine at 228.8 nm, and 30 Torr 1,1,1-trichloroethane, also in the presence of iodine, and with added CF 4 was investigated. The main photodecomposition pathways are molecular elimination of HCl and CCl bond scission, with Φ HCl /Φ CCl approximately equal to 3 at low pressure. The yields of CCl 2 CH 2 formed by HCl elimination decrease with increasing pressure, while the products of radical reactions resulting from CCl dissociation are independent of pressure. The results are consistent with Cl atom loss occurring from the σ* state populated by 228.8 nm photoexcitation, while HCl elimination does not occur from either σ* or the ground state, and must proceed through the intermediacy of another excited state, suggested to be a triplet state. Analysis of the pressure dependence of CH 2 CCl 2 yields gave the average energy transferred per gas kinetic collision as 17 ± 5 kcal mol −1 for self-deactivation and 16 ± 6 kcal mol −1 for deactivation by CF 4 .
After budesonide, what next for collagenous colitis?

Collagenous colitis, and the related condition lymphocytic colitis, are relatively common causes of watery diarrhoea, particularly in the elderly. Epidemiological studies suggest that the incidence of these conditions is increasing significantly.1 Despite these facts, there have been relatively few randomised controlled trials assessing treatment options. Budesonide has been assessed in at least three randomised, controlled induction studies in collagenous colitis2 and one in lymphocytic colitis,3 and is superior to placebo for the short-term treatment of these conditions. Unfortunately, although budesonide appears to be very effective for induction, the relapse rate is high once this medication is discontinued.4 Therefore, it is appropriate for clinicians and patients to ask, after budesonide, what next for collagenous colitis? There have now been two studies assessing budesonide maintenance therapy in collagenous colitis in a randomised, placebo controlled fashion. The first, by Bonderup and colleagues, appears in this issue of Gut ( see page 68 ).5 In this well done study, 34 patients in remission after 6 weeks open-label therapy with oral budesonide were randomised to 24 weeks additional therapy with budesonide, 6 mg/day, or placebo. Patients were then followed for an additional 24 weeks after discontinuation of therapy to assess the durability of response to prolonged budesonide treatment. After the 6 week open-label induction period, approximately 87% of patients were …
Tactile sensory monitoring of clinician-applied forces during delivery of newborns

A tactile sensing system (TSS), consisting of a sensing device and a data acquisition system, is described for measuring finger tip-applied forces. The system consists of four commercially-available tactile sensors, each mounted on a flexible matrix a clinician can wear with minimal interference, as well as a modified data acquisition system. The authors report on using the TSS to measure clinician-applied forces during vaginal delivery of newborns, with particular emphasis on an obstetric emergency called shoulder dystocia. In 24 randomly-selected deliveries using the TSS, subjective classifications of delivery type made blindly by the clinician corresponded well with the average force, peak force, and impulse demarcations in the study. Preliminary results suggest that birth injury may be time-dependent; as a result, viscoelastic effects may need to be incorporated in any situation model. >
Nature of the thermal phase transition with Wilson quarks.

We describe a series of simulations of high temperature QCD with two flavors of Wilson quarks aimed at clarifying the nature of the high temperature phase found in current simulations. Most of our work is with four time slices, although we include some runs with six and eight time slices for comparison. In addition to the usual thermodynamic observables, we study the quark mass defined by the divergence of the axial vector current and the quark propagator in the Landau gauge. We find that the sharpness of the ${N}_{t}=4$ thermal transition has a maximum around $\ensuremath{\kappa}=0.19$ and $\frac{6}{{g}^{2}}=4.8$.