cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Postrace Dry Needling Does Not Reduce Subsequent Soreness and Cramping-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE To identify whether a single session of postrace dry needling can decrease postrace soreness and quantity of postrace leg cramps in half-marathon and full-marathon runners. DESIGN Single-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled trial. SETTING Finish line of 2018 Salt Lake City Marathon & Half-Marathon. PARTICIPANTS Runners aged 18 years or older who completed a marathon or half-marathon. INTERVENTIONS True or sham dry needling of the bilateral vastus medialis and soleus muscles within 1 hour of race completion by 2 experienced practitioners. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was numeric pain rating improvements for soreness on days 1, 2, 3, and 7 compared to immediately postrace. Secondary outcome measures included number of postrace cramps and subjective improvement of soreness. RESULTS Sixty-two runners were included with 28 receiving true and 34 receiving sham dry needling. Objective pain scores showed an increase in pain of the soleus muscles at days 1 and 2 (P ≤ 0.003 and P ≤ 0.041, respectively) in the dry needling group. No differences were seen in postrace pain in the vastus medialis muscles (P > 0.05). No association was seen between treatment group and presence of postrace cramping at any time point (P > 0.05). Subjectively, there was a nonsignificant trend for those receiving dry needling to feel better than expected over time (P = 0.089), but no difference with cramping (P = 0.396). CONCLUSIONS A single postrace dry needling session does not objectively improve pain scores or cramping compared to sham therapy.
Activation of Phycomyces adenosine 3′, 5′ — Monophosphate phosphodiesterase by blue light

Abstract Cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase can be extracted from sporangiophores of Phycomyces blakesleeanus . Activity is enhanced by 1–10 μM FAD and FMN but not by riboflavin. Moderate intensity of blue light also activates the enzyme, especially in the presence of 1mM GTP. The enzyme must be extracted and stored in the absence of blue light for this result. Forty times the intensity of red light has no effect. This finding is consistent with the very sudden transient drop in cyclic AMP level upon light stimulation in the intact sporangiophore.
Ornithine decarboxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme of polyamine synthesis, modifies brain pathology in a mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by variable expressivity. TSC results from inactivating variants within the TSC1 or TSC2 genes, leading to constitutive activation of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 signaling. Using a mouse model of TSC (Tsc2-RG) in which the Tsc2 gene is deleted in radial glial precursors and their neuronal and glial descendants, we observed increased ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) enzymatic activity and concentration of its product, putrescine. To test if increased ODC activity and dysregulated polyamine metabolism contribute to the neurodevelopmental defects of Tsc2-RG mice, we used pharmacologic and genetic approaches to reduce ODC activity in Tsc2-RG mice, followed by histologic assessment of brain development. We observed that decreasing ODC activity and putrescine levels in Tsc2-RG mice worsened many of the neurodevelopmental phenotypes, including brain growth and neuronal migration defects, astrogliosis and oxidative stress. These data suggest a protective effect of increased ODC activity and elevated putrescine that modify the phenotype in this developmental Tsc2-RG model.
Phillips, Jonathan The Life and Legend of the Sultan Saladin: New Haven, CT: Yale University Press 478 pp., $32.50, ISBN 978-0-300-24706-0 Publication Date: August 2019

Saladin remains one of the best-known Muslims in the Western world and has had numerous biographies devoted to him. Jonathan Phillips, professor of the history of the Crusades at Royal Holloway, Un...
Peppermint Essential Oil for Nausea and Vomiting in Hospitalized Patients: Incorporating Holistic Patient Decision Making Into the Research Design:

AimsThis study examined nausea and vomiting (N/V) in hospitalized patients following the use of inhaled peppermint essential oil (aromatherapy) compared to combined aromatherapy/antiemetics or anti...
Ideological Extremism and Public Participation

Does aggregate ideological extremism reduce public participation? Does participation in governance processes fall when the social environment shifts to the extreme left or the extreme right of the political spectrum? Our main hypothesis is that the aggregate ideological orientation of the social environment constrains volunteerism in social regulatory programs. Methods. We test our hypothesis using a panel tobit analysis of data from the federal Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Results. Our model of public participation (expressed as volunteerism) shows that participation expands when the ideological position of a state's citizens is at the extreme left or right of the political continuum. We show the differential effects of two types of aggregate ideological orientation: of citizens and their political leaders. We further find that participation is greatest in states with extremely liberal citizen ideological positions. Conclusions. These findings paint a more complex picture of the effect of extremism in the social environment on public participation measured as production volunteerism. In sum, public participation is greatest when there the social environment is ideologically polarized, and social regulation is strongest when volunteerism is greatest.
Motion correction for routine X-ray lung CT imaging

A novel motion correction algorithm for X-ray lung CT imaging has been developed recently. It was designed to perform for routine chest or thorax CT scans without gating, namely axial or helical scans with pitch around 1.0. The algorithm makes use of two conjugate partial angle reconstruction images for motion estimation via non-rigid registration which is followed by a motion compensated reconstruction. Differently from other conventional approaches, no segmentation is adopted in motion estimation. This makes motion estimation of various fine lung structures possible. The aim of this study is to explore the performance of the proposed method in correcting the lung motion artifacts which arise even under routine CT scans with breath-hold. The artifacts are known to mimic various lung diseases, so it is of great interest to address the problem. For that purpose, a moving phantom experiment and clinical study (seven cases) were conducted. We selected the entropy and positivity as figure of merits to compare the reconstructed images before and after the motion correction. Results of both phantom and clinical studies showed a statistically significant improvement by the proposed method, namely up to 53.6% (p < 0.05) and up to 35.5% (p < 0.05) improvement by means of the positivity measure, respectively. Images of the proposed method show significantly reduced motion artifacts of various lung structures such as lung parenchyma, pulmonary vessels, and airways which are prominent in FBP images. Results of two exemplary cases also showed great potential of the proposed method in correcting motion artifacts of the aorta which is known to mimic aortic dissection. Compared to other approaches, the proposed method provides an excellent performance and a fully automatic workflow. In addition, it has a great potential to handle motions in wide range of organs such as lung structures and the aorta. We expect that this would pave a way toward innovations in chest and thorax CT imaging.
The Value of Watching How Materials Grow: A Multimodal Case Study on Halide Perovskites

Author(s): Sutter-Fella, CM | Abstract: Material synthesis is one of the most important aspects in humankinds’ endeavor to discover and create new materials for energy applications. One strategy to tailor materials with desired functions in a rational way is by knowing how functions relate to structure, synthetic variables, arrangement of atoms and molecules, and how functions evolve during synthesis. In order to accelerate materials synthesis, discovery, and optimization by 10 times it is the right time now to integrate computational tools, synthesis, and characterization. One particular barrier to realizing this concept is the understanding of when and how phases form in real time during synthesis, which is challenging to asses by existing theoretical frameworks. In addition, transient or metastable phases with positive free energy above the lowest-free energy ground state can be revealed by such real time (in situ) measurements. Metastable materials are ubiquitous in condensed matter and can show superior properties compared to their equilibrium form. This essay discusses the value of emerging multimodal in situ characterizations exemplified on hybrid halide perovskites. Finally, the ways in which the implementation of in situ measurements can advance the materials science synthesis field as well as their role to enable close-loop feedback control and autonomous synthesis are discussed.
Grammars of reckoning: Redressing racial regimes of property:

This paper contributes to emerging conversations at the intersection of critical geographies of property and race by centering political grammars of reckoning and redress. Grammar is more than synt...
SUPPRESSION OF OXYGEN-INDUCED RETINOPATHY WITH JB1 (AN IGF-1 PEPTIDE ANALOGUE) IN NEONATAL RATS

Background Insulin-like growth factor type 1 (IGF-1) is a permissive factor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in normal and pathological vascular development. Objective JB1 (an IGF-1 analogue that inhibits the autophosphorylation of the IGF-1 receptor by IGF-1) administration during hyperoxia suppresses oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Methods Rats at birth (P1) were exposed to 50% with three brief episodes of 12% oxygen every 6 h, for 14 days (P14). They were treated with: (1) JB1 (1 g/day) on P2, P3 and P4 (JB1X3); (2) JB1 on P2, P4, P6, P8, P10, P12, P14 (JB1X7); or (3) saline. Rats were killed at P14 or recovered in room air (RA) until P21. Controls were in RA from birth to P14 or P21. Serum, retina and vitreous fluid were assessed for VEGF and soluble VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR-1). Retinal vasculature was assessed using fluorescein-dextran and adenosine diphosphatase staining. Results JB1 had no effects on serum VEGF in RA. In O2, JB1X7 decreased serum VEGF (p Conclusions JB1 may be used to suppress neovascularisation in retinopathy of prematurity.
The Effect of Virtual Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Sleep Quality: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

We summarized peer-reviewed literature investigating the effect of virtual mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on sleep quality. We aimed to examine the following three questions: (1) do virtual MBIs improve sleep quality when compared with control groups; (2) does the effect persist long-term; and (3) is the virtual delivery method equally feasible compared to the in-person delivery method? Findings suggest that virtual MBIs are equivalent to evidence-based treatments, and to a limited extent, more effective than non-specific active controls at reducing some aspects of sleep disturbance. Overall, virtual MBIs are more effective at improving sleep quality than usual care controls and waitlist controls. Studies provide preliminary evidence that virtual MBIs have a long-term effect on sleep quality. Moreover, while virtual MBI attrition rates are comparable to in-person MBI attrition rates, intervention adherence may be compromised in the virtual delivery method. This review highlights virtual MBIs as a potentially effective alternative to managing sleep disturbance during pandemic-related quarantine and stay-at-home periods. This is especially relevant due to barriers of accessing in-person interventions during the pandemic. Future studies are needed to explore factors that influence adherence and access to virtual MBIs, with a particular focus on diverse populations.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy for primary liver tumors: An effective liver-directed therapy in the toolbox

The use of radiation for primary liver cancers has historically been limited because of the risk of radiation-induced liver disease. Treatment fields have become more conformal because of several technical advances, and this has allowed for dose escalation. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), also known as stereotactic ablative radiotherapy, is now able to safely treat liver tumors to ablative doses while sparing functional liver parenchyma by using highly conformal therapy. Several retrospective and small prospective studies have examined the use of SBRT for liver cancers; however, there is a lack of well-powered randomized studies to definitively guide management in these settings. Recent advances in systemic therapy for primary liver cancers have improved outcomes; however, the optimal selection criteria for SBRT as a local therapy remain unclear among other liver-directed options such as radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, and radioembolization.
48 Year Old Hiv + Male with Multiple Papules and Nodules on Arms

A HIV positive 48 year old male presented with multiple papules and nodules on his arms. He reported having chest pain and a non-productive cough. He reported recently having explored several caves with his friends in eastern Tennessee.
Neoplastic progression in ulcerative colitis: Histology, DNA content, and loss of a p53 allele

Neoplastic progression in patients with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by the development of epithelial dysplasia, which is accompanied by genetic abnormalities that can be detected by flow cytometric and molecular biologic methods. Distribution of and correlation between histologic abnormalities, DNA content, and loss of heterozygosity for a p53 allele (p53 LOH) in the colons of nine UC patients were analyzed. Loss of a p53 allele was found in 85% (22/26) of biopsy specimens classified histologically as carcinoma, 63% (25/40) of biopsy specimens with high grade dysplasia, and 33% (7/21) of biopsy specimens with low grade dysplasia. Loss of heterozygosity for p53 was also found in 9% (5/57) of biopsy specimens indefinite for dysplasia and in 1/18 biopsy specimens negative for dysplasia, showing that this genetic change may occur early in the histological progression towards carcinoma. Aneuploid DNA contents were more common than p53 LOH in regions with negative, indefinite or low grade dysplastic histology; moreover, p53 LOH was detected only in aneuploid cells and not in diploid epithelium. Aneuploidy alone was not as specific a marker for the concomitant presence of dysplasia or carcinoma in a biopsy sample as aneuploidy combined with p53 LOH. These findings show that aneuploidy may precede both p53 LOH and epithelial dysplasia. Two UC patients' colons contained geographically separated clones of cells with different aneuploidies that also showed loss of different p53 alleles, suggesting that neoplasia may arise within different populations of cells in separate areas of the same colon.
Finger tip tracking for manipulator jogging using the kinect

This paper reports on an interactive HumanRobot system which uses the Microsoft Kinect to track a human finger tip. By pointing to target locations in the robotic manipulator's workarea, a user can intuitively and rapidly develop certain types of industrial robotic applications. The efficacy of the system is limited by the Kinect's ability to precisely identify the finger tip in 3D space. Such HumanComputer Interactive devices are typically used to track large movements/gestures by a user in gaming and other applications. Empirical results are reported which show that the approach is able to precisely identify 3D location data and that the accuracy of the system is limited to the width of the user's finger.
Synthesis of 3-N-ribosyluric acid 5'-monophosphate by red cells of the bovine fetus.

Abstract 1. 1. Although 3-N- ribosyluric acid (3-RUA) was not detected in the red cells of bovine fetuses, 3-N- ribosyluric acid 5′-monophosphate, the immediate precursor of 3-RUA, was synthesized from uric acid and 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP) by hemolysates of fetal red cells. 2. 2. These preparations also synthesized 3-N- ribosylxanthine 5′-monophosphate from xanthine and PRPP. 3. 3. Partially purified extracts of fetal and adult erythrocytes of cattle had similar enzyme activity and the same specificity toward xanthine and orotic acid. 4. 4. Therefore, it was concluded that the absence of 3-RUA in fetal red cells was not a result of lack of the enzyme orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (EC 2.4.2.10).
A rapid screen for cumulative chromosomal damage in mice. Accumulation of circulating micronucleated erythrocytes.

The frequency of micronuclei in normochromatic peripheral blood erythrocytes was found to be a useful index of cumulative chromosomal damage in repeatedly exposed mice. Although approximately 5 weeks of continuous treatment is required to reach the maximum steady state level, significant elevations in this index were achieved after only 5 daily exposures to non-lethal doses of all six genotoxins tested. The frequencies of micronucleated cells per 1000 normochromatic erythrocytes in weanling mice after 5 daily intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of each test agent were: triethylenemelamine (0.5 mg/kg), 13.7; mitomycin C (2 mg/kg), 7.1; cyclophosphamide (22 mg/kg), 6.6; colchicine (1 mg/kg), 4.0; nitrogen mustard (0.4 mg/kg), 3.6; 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (5 mg/kg), 6.6. Controls averaged 1.2 per 1000. During extended exposure to nitrogen mustard (5 i.p. injections of 0.4 mg/kg per week), the incidence of micronucleated erythrocytes rose steadily to a value of 12.0 per 1000, approaching the steady state after about 5 weeks of treatment. These results indicate that the measurement of micronuclei in peripheral blood erythrocytes is an effective and rapid method for estimating chromosomal damage in subchronically or chronically exposed animals. In practical application, routine blood smears taken during 90-day subchronic toxicity tests could be scored for micronuclei in less than 1 day, providing an economical estimate of in vivo chromosomal damage.
Tarsius δ- and β-globin genes: conversions, evolution, and systematic implications

Comparisons between duplicated genes have shown that gene conversions play an important role in the evolution of multigene families. Previous comparisons have documented in the recently duplicated γ-fetal globin genes of catarrhine primates, over 15 separate conversions affecting extensive stretches of coding and noncoding sequences. In the present study, δ- and β-globin genes from a lower primate Tarsius syrichta, and the δ-globin gene of the Asian great ape, Pongo pygmaeus, have been isolated and sequenced. Comparisons of these sequences with other primate δ and β sequences confirmed a previously reported conversion in an anthropoid ancestor and revealed additional conversions in basal primate, stem haplorhine, tarsier, and early lemur lineages. Conversions found between primate δ- and β-globin genes contrast with those found in the γ-genes in that δ-β conversions appear much less frequently and are more restricted to regions conserved by selection (i.e. coding and 5′-regulatory sequences). These differences indicate that soon after a duplication occurs, conversions can be quite frequent and encompass extensive portions of the duplicated region. With time, sequence differences accumulate, particularly in noncoding regions, and limit both the frequency and size of the conversions. Sequences conserved by selection accumulate differences more slowly and are therefore subject to gene conversions for a longer period of time. Both unconverted and converted sequences were consistent in supporting the placement of tarsier with anthropoids.
Patently Non-Obvious: Empirical Demonstration that the Hindsight Bias Renders Patent Decisions Irrational

This Article reports an experimental study that provides the first empirical demonstration of the hindsight bias in patent law. The results are dramatic along several fronts: (1) the hindsight bias distorts patent decisions far more than anticipated, and to a greater extent than other legal judgments; (2) jury instructions that explicitly identify and warn against the hindsight bias do not ameliorate its impact; (3) the admission of secondary consideration evidence does not cure the hindsight bias; (4) neither the Federal Circuit's suggestion test nor the Supreme Court's Graham requirements appear to solve the hindsight problem; and (5) the hindsight problem pervades patent law to an extent not previously recognized - it biases decisions under the doctrine of equivalents, claim construction, the on-sale bar, and enablement.These findings run counter to the dominant patent analysis of the last decade and have significant implications for patent and innovation policy. The study results indicate that the non-obvious requirement actually often may be applied too stringently. Numerous critics of the current non-obvious requirement may need to reconsider the bases of their challenges and revisit their prescriptions for reform. Revising non-obvious doctrine or practice, for instance, will not provide the panacea that most assume. This Article concludes with recommendations for changes in patent doctrine and litigation to mitigate the impact of the hindsight bias.
Gender Differences in Anxiety and Depression Among Immigrant Latinos.

This study determines elements of a social history that could assist primary care providers in identifying and treating anxiety and depression among immigrant Mexicans. Cross-sectional data were obtained through interviewer-administered survey questionnaires from immigrant Latinos in the United Stat
Changes in the soil, litter, and vegetation nitrogen and carbon concentrations of semiarid shrublands in response to chronic dry season nitrogen input

Abstract Southern Californian chaparral and coastal sage scrub (CSS) shrublands are exposed to high-levels of dry-atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition. A field experiment was conducted over a 6-year period to assess the effects of cumulative, dry-season N inputs on soil and vegetation carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). We hypothesized that plots exposed to exogenous N should exhibit signs of N enrichment once a cumulative N exposure threshold was reached and the N immobilization capacity was exceeded. Using mass-balance we found that chaparral and CSS have the capacity to immobilize 6.2 and 11.9 gN m −2 y −1 , respectively. Soil extractable N increased significantly after 7–10 g/m 2 of cumulative N exposure, resulting in a simultaneous increase in the N concentration and a decline in the C:N ratio of shrub tissue. Similar results were observed for the surface litter pool and litter production but at a higher cumulative N exposure. While we cannot tease out the potential for lagged responses to affect our estimate of the cumulative N threshold, these results indicate that the C and N cycling of semi-arid shrublands is significantly altered once the ecosystem N uptake capacity is exceeded.
Distribution of brain iron, ferritin, and transferrin in the 28-day-old piglet

This study sought to gain understanding of the effect of iron deficiency anemia on regional brain iron, ferritin, and transferrin concentrations in the growing piglet. We wanted to use an animal whose development is more similar to human development than rodent models. Fourteen 1-month-old piglets were used for this study. One group (n = 7) received supplemental iron (100 mg iron dextran injected intramuscularly) at postnatal day 2; the second group (n = 7) received no iron injection and became iron deficient anemic. Anemia was verified in the iron deficient group [hemoglobin of 41 g/L, compared with 112 g/L in controls and hematocrit (15%, compared with 34% in controls)] when piglets were 28 days old. Brain iron concentrations were significantly lower due to iron deficiency (P = 0.02). The H-chain to L-chain (H:L chain) ferritin ratio was decreased in response to iron deficiency with the exception of substantia nigra and deep cerebellar nuclei, which were significantly higher than controls (P < 0.05). Compared with adult levels, brain iron concentrations were much lower and transferrin much higher in the piglets, suggesting a very active iron uptake system even in control piglets. A much lower H:L chain ferritin ratio (P < 0.05) in adult brain regions indicates a shift in the ferritin isoform expression in brain either as a function of increasing iron concentration or development. These data indicate that the brain of the 28-day-old piglet is actively acquiring iron regardless of the administration of exogenous iron.
Direct blood group typing of forensic samples using a simple monoclonal antibody assay

A simple direct test for blood group antigens in samples of blood, dried blood, dried blood associated with fabric, semen, vaginal secretions, saliva and fingerprints is described. This test takes advantage of monoclonal antibodies which have been produced in this laboratory, but which are also becoming available commercially in ever increasing numbers. The test is sensitive and reliable as evidenced by its performance in blind studies of more than 700 blood samples. The test requires no special equipment and can be completed in 4 h. The test is sufficiently versatile that new antibodies can be added to the same test format as they become available.
Crystalline firefly luciferase

Abstract 1. 1. The method for purification and crystallization of firefly luciferase is described. 2. 2. The crystalline enzyme is apparently homogenous as evidenced by ultracentrifugation a and electrophoretic determinations. The molecular weight is probably around 100,000 and the isoelectric point between pH 6.2 and 6.3. 3. 3. The effect of temperature, pH and the concentration of luciferin Mg ++ and ATP is described.
Neuroprotection of photoreceptors by minocycline in light-induced retinal degeneration.

PURPOSE. Microglial cells have been found to play pivotal roles in various neuronal degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Minocycline, a microglial inhibitor, has recently been shown to be neuroprotective in various models of cerebral ischemia and degenerative diseases of the brain. This study was conducted to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of minocycline and the role of microglia in lightinduced retinal degeneration. METHODS. BALB/cJ mice were exposed to intense green light for 3 hours and observed during 1, 3, or 7 days of dark recovery. The animals received intraperitoneal injections of minocycline or vehicle 1 day before exposure to light for 2, 4, or 8 days, depending on the periods of survival. Morphologic, morphometric, immunohistochemical, and electrophysiological studies were performed to evaluate the efficacy of minocycline in the amelioration of light-induced retinal degeneration and the possible involvement of microglial cells. RESULTS. Minocycline treatment provided marked amelioration in the loss of photoreceptors in light-induced retinal degeneration, as evidenced by morphologic, morphometric, and electrophysiologic criteria. Morphologically, the minocyclinetreated group showed markedly better preservation of the outer retina after exposure to light. Morphometrically, at 7 days after exposure to light, in the minocycline-treated animals, 89.1% of the normal-appearing photoreceptor nuclei remained, but in the retinas of the vehicle-control group only 38.0% of these nuclei remained. This difference was statistically significant (P 0.001). At 7 days after exposure to light electroretinography (ERG) showed that minocycline significantly preserved the amplitudes of dark-adapted a- and b-wave and light-adapted b-wave, which were all significantly reduced after exposure to light. Concomitant with this protective effect, at 3 days after exposure to light, the CD11b microglial cells in the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and subretinal space in the minocycline-treated group were significantly decreased (by 63.5%) when compared with those in the light-exposed, vehicle-treated control group (P 0.01). CONCLUSIONS. Minocycline is neuroprotective against light-induced loss of photoreceptors, possibly through the inhibition of retinal microglial activation. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2004;45:2753–2759) DOI:10.1167/iovs.03-1344
Assessing the Multidimensional and Hierarchical Structure of Servqual

Parasuraman, Zeithaml, and Berry introduced SERVQUAL in 1998 as a scale to measure service quality. Since then, researchers have proposed several variations. This study examines the development of the tool. Marketing researchers have first challenged the conceptualization of a perceptions-expectations gap and have concluded that the performance-based measures are adequate to capture consumers' perception of service quality. Some researchers have argued that the five dimensions of the SERVQUAL scale only focus on the process of service delivery and have extended the SERVQUAL scale into six dimensions by including the service outcome dimension. Others have proposed that service quality is a multilevel construct and should be measured accordingly. From a sample of 467 undergraduate students data on service quality toward up-scale restaurants were collected. Using the structural equation approach, two measurement models of service quality were compared, the extended SERVQUAL model and the restructured multilevel SERVQUAL model. Analysis suggested that the latter model fits the data better than the extended one.
Can long-term performance plans mitigate the negative effects of stock consideration and high cash for acquirers?

Following Travlos (J Finance 42: 943–963, 1987), Loughran and Vijh (J Finance 52: 1765–1790, 1997), Harford (J Finance 54: 1969–1997, 1999), and Oler (Rev Acc Stud 13: 479–511, 2008), we investigate whether acquisitions involving stock consideration and acquirers with high cash levels are associated with poor performance or not. In addition, we investigate whether including a long-term performance plan in top management’s compensation package can mitigate these negative effects. We find that acquirers with a long-term performance plan are less likely to hold a high cash balance and are less likely to use stock consideration, thus avoiding scenarios that are more likely to be value-destructive. Even if an acquirer with a long-term performance plan carries a high cash balance or uses stock, we find that the plan is associated with improved fundamental performance; however, this relationship does not flow through to improved post-acquisition returns.
VOLUNTARY CONTROL OF EROTICISM1

A recent study reported that motivated human male subjects were able voluntarily to inhibit penile erection in the presence of effective erotic stimulation (Laws and Rubin, 1969). However, because this study required attendance only to the display area of erotic stimuli, there was a possibility that inhibition resulted from their subjects not attending to the content of the stimuli. The present study utilized a procedure that guaranteed subjects' attendance to the content of the erotic stimulation, i.e., a description of the behavioral content of the erotic stimulus film. Nevertheless, every subject was able to inhibit penile erection almost as effectively as when no film description was required. Furthermore, the verbal description prevented the production of competing asexual stimuli; a technique that all subjects, in both the Laws and Rubin study (1969) and the present study, reported using to inhibit penile erection when no description was required. This suggests that although concentration on asexual stimuli may be the preferred method of reducing sexual arousal to erotic stimulation, penile erection can be inhibited by other methods.
Extracorporeal life support as a post left ventricular assist device implant supplement

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is indicated following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant for right heart failure or pulmonary dysfunction. From December 1991 to December 1996, 100 patients were supported with the implantable HeartMate LVAD. Of these, 12 patients were supported with ECLS post LVAD implant. Pre-operatively, 10 patients (83%) were on an intra-aortic balloon pump, 9 patients (75%) were intubated, and 8 patients (67%) required ECLS bridge to LVAD implant. Six patients (50%) were men, and patient age ranged from 28 to 63 years (mean 46 +/- 10 years). Duration of ECLS averaged 3 +/- 2 days (range, 1-9 days). Eight patients (67%) required a right ventricular assist device (RVAD) with an ECLS circuit, three patients (25%) required peripheral veno-venous ECLS, and one patient peripheral veno-arterial ECLS. Forty-five percent supported with ECLS post LVAD survived to transplant compared with the 81% supported with LVAD only. Early in this experience, three patients had RVAD support only and all three patients died. RVAD support (with or without ECLS) was 11% overall and declined from 14% in the first 50 patients to 8% in the second 50. ECLS post LVAD is relatively uncommon and its use is associated with reduced survival, but helps salvage these critically ill patients.
On-Line Processing of Unidirectional Fiber Composites Using Radiative Heating: I. Model

Thermal radiation is a clean, flexible, efficient and effective means to supply energy to process a composite on-line. Radiative transfer in high-fiberdensity, unidirectional composites is complex, if analyzed completely. A detailed thermal model for on-line processing of unidirectional fiber composites by surface or volumetric radiative heating is presented. The physical geometry and imposed thermal and radiative boundary conditions correspond to a unidirectional, hoop-wound cylinder. In-situ (or continuous) curing of thermosets or on-line consolidation of thermoplastics is represented by the inclusion or omission, respectively, of the exothermic, chemical energy release term in the energy equation. Numerical results are presented for the temperature and degree of cure of graphite/epoxy and glass/epoxy cylinders. The effects of: surface or volumetric radiative heat flux; radiant-source emissive power level and efficiency; radiative emission from the composite; exothermic, chemical energy release; radiati...
Experimental Study of Maze Learning in Young Opossums

Studies on the behavior of the mature o$ossm have shown the animal capable of learning with little difficulty experimental problems used with other animals. Such tasks include the Guthtie-Horton puzzle box (James, 1755 ), a conditioned avoidance problem (James, 1737, 1958), the Fink Atrow Maze (James, 1759), a two-choice discrimination (James, 1760), and an operant lever response (unpublished study by the author). To the author's knowledge, there have been no investigations published on the learning capability of the young opossum. The present study is a comparative evaluation of mrze learning behavior of the young opossum with that of the full-grown white rat. Procedme.-Seven young opossums, approximately 60 days from the pouch, and seven mature rats, 90 days old, were used as Ss. The opossums averaged 242 gm. in weight, and the rats 140 gm. The Maze was of Lashley 11 design (Lashley, 1929), measuring 38 in. X 18 in. X 6 in., with a center 4%-in. runway, and three culs-de-sac and a food compartment opening on the sides. An incorrect response was contingent on
Adhesion, migration and communication in melanocytes and melanoma

Under normal conditions, homeostasis determines whether a cell remains quiescent, proliferates, differentiates, or undergoes apoptosis. In this state of homeostasis, keratinocytes control melanocyte growth and behaviour through a complex system of paracrine growth factors and cell-cell adhesion molecules. Alteration of this delicate homeostatic balance and can lead to altered expression of cell-cell adhesion and cell communication molecules and to the development of melanoma. Melanoma cells escape from this control by keratinocytes through three major mechanisms: (1) down-regulation of receptors important for communication with keratinocytes such as E-cadherin, P-cadherin, desmoglein and connexins, which is achieved through growth factors produced by fibroblasts or keratinocytes; (2) up-regulation of receptors and signalling molecules not found on melanocytes but important for melanoma-melanoma and melanoma-fibroblast interactions such as N-cadherin, Mel-CAM, and zonula occludens protein-1 (ZO-1); (3) loss of anchorage to the basement membrane because of an altered expression of the extracellular-matrix binding integrin family. In the current review, we describe the alterations in cell-cell adhesion and communication associated with melanoma development and progression, and discuss how a greater understanding of these processes may aid the future therapy of this disease.
Flow equivalence, hyperbolic systems and a new zeta function for flows

We analyze the dynamics of diffeomorphisms in terms of their suspension flows. For many Axion A diffeomorphisms we find simplest representatives in their flow equivalence class and so reduce flow equivalence to conjugacy. The zeta functions of maps in a flow equivalence class are correlated with a zeta function ζH for their suspended flow. This zeta function is defined for any flow with only finitely many closed orbits in each homology class, and is proven rational for Axiom A flows. The flow equivalence of Anosov diffeomorphisms is used to relate the spectrum of the induced map on first homology to the existence of fixed points. For Morse-Smale maps, we extend a result of Asimov on the geometric index.
Body fat, puberty and fertility.

Evidence to support the hypothesis that the ratio of fat to body weight in the human female is a determinant of female reproductive ability is presented and the mechanism through which the degree of fatness may operate to increase or decrease reproductive capacity is described. During maturation the proportion of bone muscle and fat changes in the human female. The high proportion of fat at menarche (24%) and the even higher proportion of fat at physical maturity (26%-28%) may influence reproductive ability. Previous investigations indicate that a minimal ratio of fatness to body weight is required before menarche can be achieved and menstrual cycle regularity maintained. The mechanism by which these fat deposits influence reproduction was suggested by a recent study which revealed that androgens are converted to estrogens in the fatty tissue of the breast. Furthermore the degree of fatness apparently determines whether the most potent or least potent form of estrogen will be metabolized. Periodic assessment of the ratio of total body water to body weight (an index of fatness) among 118 females who were followed from menarche to physical maturation at age 16-18 facilitated the identification of minimal fatness thresholds which must be reached in order to establish menarche in cases of primary amenorrhea and to re-establish menstrual cycles in cases of secondary amenorrhea. Dancers and athletes frequently experience amenorrhea and delayed menarche. Although their body weights may be high the ratio of fat to lean in the body may be reduced below the critical level. In populations undergoing food shortages the mechanism whereby body fat regulates reproduction may have an adaptive value. Malnourished women will experience amenorrhea when their body weight is reduced to the critical level. Energy which might otherwise be expended in reproduction will be conserved. Furthermore births are prevented in a population already experiencing food shortages. This hypothesis may also explain why some populations in developing countries have small completed family size. Chronic malnutrition rather than the use of traditional birth control methods may account for their low fecundity.
Controlling the work function of indium tin oxide: differentiating dipolar from local surface effects

Indium tin oxide (ITO) reacts with tetra(tert-butoxy)tin to give surface bound alkoxytin species. Ligand exchange occurs in these surface bound species by reaction with substituted phenols. The speciation of surface phenoxides was measured in ultrahigh vacuum by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, as was the work function for the surface modified ITO. It is shown that the molecular dipole moment of the phenol correlates strongly with the measured ITO work function change; no such correlation exists between the acidity of the phenol and this measured change in work function. Results are consistent therefore with an electrostatic model and not with one involving electronegativities of the ligated phenoxide oxygens.
Exports and legal institutions: exploring the connection in transition economies

Secure property rights, established through court enforcement of contracts, are widely acknowledged to be fundamental to economic exchange. Despite their essential function, weak legal and judicial institutions remain the norm across much of Eastern European and former Soviet Union. Barzel (2002) hypothesizes that the value of contract trade, as opposed to relationships and reputation, increases as products travel further and are more costly to inspect. Combining Barzel's theory with the high cost of searching for foreign buyers (Rauch, 1999), this article presents evidence that international trade played a significant role in the emergence of institutions. Search costs influence the potential to export value-added, or complex, products. The level of potential complex exports in turn influences the intensity with which businesses lobby for more credible legal and juridical institutions. Both a micro-level model and empirical evidence provide evidence consistent with an endogenous link between exports and legal and judicial institutions.
Epidemiology of Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome in Utah children.

Background:Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is an uncommon complication of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children. Few studies examine the Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes associated with HUS. Our objective was to describe the epidemiology of S. pneumoniae-related HUS (SP-HUS) and the sero
Bath-Tub Vortex

PERENNIALLY one hears controversy regarding the direction of the vortex in the drain of the bath-tub or the kitchen sink. Some claim that the direction of swirl is always the same in the northern hemisphere, and that in the southern hemisphere it is always opposite to that for the northern hemisphere. Others claim that there is no unique direction of swirl in either hemisphere.
Dependence of the minimal clinically important improvement on the baseline value is a consequence of floor and ceiling effects and not different expectations by patients.

Abstract Objective Estimates of minimal clinically important improvements (MCIIs) are larger among patients with higher values at baseline, suggesting that these patients require larger changes to appreciate improvements. We examined if baseline dependency of MCIIs was associated with specific patients across three measures, or was owing to floor and ceiling effects. Study Design and Setting We prospectively examined 250 outpatients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We used an anchor-based approach to estimate MCIIs for three measures of RA activity (patient global assessment, swollen joint count, and walking time). We examined if the same patients constituted the baseline subgroups with high MCIIs across measures. Results The MCIIs were greater for those with higher baseline values of all three measures. At the ceiling, there was little opportunity to improve, and judgments were unrelated to measured changes. At midrange, improvements were balanced by worsenings, including some judged as improvements. At the floor, improvements were not similarly balanced. Patients in subgroups with high MCII for patient global assessment were not also predominantly in subgroups with high MCII for the swollen joint count or walking time, and vice versa. Conclusion Variation in MCII by baseline values is because of floor and ceiling effects rather than expectations of particular patients.
Propofol for pediatric sedation: Does experience matter?

Study objectives: We investigate the incidence of complications with increasing experience using propofol for deep procedural sedation by emergency physicians in a community emergency department (ED). Methods: During the investigation of the first 100 pediatric patients (aged 18 months to 12 years) to receive propofol for deep procedural sedation in our ED, a complication incidence of 7% was noted. The current study investigates the incidence of complications in the next 100 patients. We theorized that the incidence of complications would decrease as familiarity with the drug increased. Data were collected prospectively on the 101st to 200th pediatric patients who had undergone procedural sedation with propofol in our community ED. Patients were given propofol in a titrated dose at the discretion of the emergency physician until the desired level of sedation was obtained. The drug was given without regard to time of last oral intake. Vital signs and pulse oximetry were recorded during the procedure and until recovery. The nurses recorded complications. Decrease of systolic blood pressure of 20% of the presedation level, hypoxemia of pulse oximetry less than 90%, respiratory depression requiring assisted ventilation or intubation, aspiration, airway obstruction, bradycardia, or anesthesia consultation were considered complications. Case data, adverse events, sedation duration, and recovery time were recorded into a database. Results: During the study period, patients received propofol for orthopedic reduction (72%), lumbar puncture (10%), laceration repair (17%), and ocular examination (1%). All procedures were completed successfully. Mean dose of propofol was 2.7 mg/kg (range 0.4 to 7.9 mg/kg). Patient ages ranged from 9 months to 12 years. Ninety-two patients were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical class status I and 8 were ASA class II. Of the ASA class II patients, there were 4 patients with diabetes, 4 patients with asthma, and 1 patient with sickle cell anemia. Ninety-eight patients were sedated to level IV, and 2 were sedated to level III. Transient hypoxia (systolic blood pressure Conclusion: This incidence of complications decreased from 7% to 3% with increasing experience using propofol for deep procedural sedation. In the first 100 patients, 3 developed hypotension and 4 developed transient hypoxia; of these, 2 required assisted ventilation. In the next 100 patients, there were only 3 complications, which revealed a decrease in the complication rate from 7% to 3%, indicating that as the familiarity with propofol increased, the complication rate improved. The most dreaded complications of aspiration or need for intubation have not occurred in the 200 patients studied to date.
Size, shape, and contrast in detection of targets by daylight vision; data and analytical description.

The influence of size and symmetry has been studied on the contrast required for the recognition of rectangular targets against background brightnesses of 2950 and 17.5 footlamberts. Targets less than 2 minutes in diameter require the addition of a constant total light flux to the background. Larger targets require less contrast but more total flux as the area increases, until beyond 200 square minutes when the required contrast becomes independent of area. For areas below 100 square minutes, square targets are most efficient for their area; the greater the ratio of length to width the greater the contrast required. All the measurements can be unified on the supposition that the visually critical region of a target is a ribbon just inside its perimeter and about 1 minute wide. Evidently, contrast is not judged over the area of a target, but across its boundary.