cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of C677T polymorphism of the methylenetetra hydrofolate reductase gene and its association with levels of serum homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 as maternal risk factors for Down syndrome.

Aims and Objective: Evaluation of C677T polymorphisms of the methylenetetra hydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene and its association with level of serum homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 as possible maternal risk factors for Down syndrome. Design: This was a case-control study. Material and Methods : Fifty-two mothers (mean age 27.6 years) with babies having free trisomy 21 of North Indian ethnicity and 52 control nonlactating mothers (mean age 24.9 years) of same ethnicity attending services of genetic lab for bloodletting for other causes were enrolled after informed written consent. Fasting blood was collected and was used for determination of plasma homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate (serum and RBC), and for PCR amplification of the MTHFR gene. Results: The prevalence of MTHFR C677T polymorphism in north Indian mothers of babies with trisomy 21 Down syndrome was 15.38% compared to 5.88 % in controls. The difference between two groups was not statistically significant ( P = 0.124). Low serum folate was demonstrated in 34.62% of cases vs. 11.54% in controls, which was significant ( P = 0.005). Low RBC folate was found in 30.7% of cases versus 11.53% in controls, which was not significant ( P = 0.059), when analyzed independently. But on multiple regression analysis the difference was statistically significant. Low serum vitamin B12 was found in 42.31% of cases versus 34.62% in controls, which was not significant ( P = 0.118). The mean serum homocysteine in cases was 10.35 ± 0.68 while controls were 9.02 ± 0.535. Conclusion: Serum levels of folate were low in cases. The RBC folate levels were comparable in both groups. However the combined serum folate and RBC folate were low in cases compared to control groups. Homocysteine levels in our study were higher in Down syndrome mothers compared to controls; however high-serum level of Homocysteine had no association with MTHFR polymorphism. No association of serum vitamin B12 with MTHFR polymorphism in occurrence of Down syndrome births was found. Peri- or preconceptional folate supplementation may therefore lead to a decline in DS births, if supported by larger studies.
Summer Thermal Thresholds of Fish Community Transitions in Connecticut Streams

AbstractThermal tolerances have been studied for individual fish species but few have investigated how stream fish assemblages respond along a temperature gradient and which thermal ranges act as a threshold, triggering discernible community change. The purpose of this study was to define summer temperature thresholds of fish community transitions in Connecticut streams. The program Threshold Indicator Taxa Analysis suggested that the coldwater class had a June–August mean water temperature 21.70°C. Significant indicator species of coldwater streams were Slimy Sculpin Cottus cognatus and Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis. Significant indicator species of warmwater streams were Cutlip Minnow Exoglossum maxillingua, Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu, Rock Bass Ambloplites rupestris, Brown Bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus, Redbreast Sunfish Lepomis auritus and Yellow Bullhead A. natalis. The narrow 3.41°C temperature range between the coldwa...
Asia in the history of cartography

The History of Cartography, Volume Two, Book One: Cartography in the Traditional Islamic and South Asian Societies. Edited by J. B. Harley and David Woodward. Chicago and London: Chicago University Press, 1992. ISBN 0 226 31635 1. Pp xxiv, 579, 355 illus., 40 coloured plates. US$143.75 (cloth). The History of Cartography, Volume Two, Book Two: Cartography in the Traditional East and Southeast Asian Societies. Edited by J. B. Harley and David Woodward. Chicago and London: Chicago University Press, 1995. ISBN 0226 31637 8. Pp xxviii, 1,040, 503 illus., 40 coloured plates. US$195.00 (cloth).
DNA sequence analysis of a Drosophila foldback transposable element rearrangement

The complete nucleotide sequence of a DNA rearrangement associated with the foldback 4 (FB 4) transposable element is presented. The results demonstrate that the entire loop sequence and almost all of one of the inverted terminal repeats is absent. Moreover, the sequence of the remaining inverted repeat suggests that the FB elements might undergo inversions via recombinations between the two inverted repeats of a single element.
Effect of Inspection Error on Out-of-Control Average Run Length of CUSUM Charts

The cumulative sum (CUSUM) chart is commonly used for detecting small or moderate shifts in the fraction of defective manufactured items. However, its construction relies on the error-free inspection assumption, which can seldom be met in practice. In this article, we discuss the construction of an upward CUSUM chart in the presence of inspection error, study the effects of inspection error on the out-of-control ARL of the CUSUM chart, and present a formula for determining the sampling size that compensates for the effect of inspection error on the out-of-control ARL.
Emotional and Behavioral Problems of Asian American Adolescents: A Comparative Study.

Social, academic, emotional functioning and social support of 99 ninth-grade Asian American students were investigated using standardized measures. When compared to 404 ninth-grade Caucasian adolescents who had attended the same school, Asian American students exhibited less delinquent behavior and performed better academically. However, they were significantly more isolated, more depressed and anxious, less apt to be involved in after school activities or seek help for their problems, and internalized their social problems. Also, they had fewer role models and less social support, underscoring the psychosocial and emotional plight of Asian American adolescents and the dire need to establish proactive outreach programs.
Comparison of hydrogenated shale oils with standard jet fuels

Abstract The characteristics of jet fuels obtained from typical U.S. shale oils (Geokinetics, Occidental, Paraho and Tosco II) were compared with standard petroleum jet fuels in order to study the possibility of using these shale oils as a substitute. The shale oil fractions distilling below 343°C were catalytically hydroprocessed at low, medium and high severities and fractionated to the jet fuel range (121–300°C). The hydroprocessed products and jet fuels were compared for composition and physical properties. High severity hydroprocessing of shale oils decreased the nitrogen, sulfur, olefin and aromatic content while increasing the hydrogen content. The nitrogen content in shale oil jet fuels was considerably higher even after the high severity treatment. The aromatic content, except in Paraho shale oil, was relatively higher and the hydrogen content was slightly lower. Sulfur and olefin contents were lower at all severities. The physical properties and heat of combustion, except the high freezing point of shale oil jet fuels, were comparable to those of standard petroleum jet fuels.
Persistence of mental health problems and needs in a college student population.

Abstract Background Cross-sectional studies indicate a high prevalence of mental health problems among college students, but there are fewer longitudinal data on these problems and related help-seeking behavior. Methods We conducted a baseline web-based survey of students attending a large public university in fall 2005 and a two-year follow-up survey in fall 2007. We used brief screening instruments to measure symptoms of mental disorders (anxiety, depression, eating disorders), as well as self-injury and suicidal ideation. We estimated the persistence of these mental health problems between the two time points, and determined to what extent students with mental health problems perceived a need for or used mental health services (medication or therapy). We conducted logistic regression analyses examining how baseline predictors were associated with mental health and help-seeking two years later. Results Over half of students suffered from at least one mental health problem at baseline or follow-up. Among students with at least one mental health problem at baseline, 60% had at least one mental health problem two years later. Among students with a mental health problem at both time points, fewer than half received treatment between those time points. Limitations Mental health problems are based on self-report to brief screens, and the sample is from a single university. Conclusions These findings indicate that mental disorders are prevalent and persistent in a student population. While the majority of students with probable disorders are aware of the need for treatment, most of these students do not receive treatment, even over a two-year period.
Future Strategies for Targeted Therapies and Tailored Patient Management in Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer represents the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. The vast majority of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease, at which time gemcitabine-based chemotherapy is typically offered as the standard of care. However, as investigators have arrived at a greater understanding of pancreatic tumor biology, newer therapeutic agents that "target" specific pathways or molecules governing the growth, spread, and maintenance of tumor cells have gained considerable interest. Erlotinib, an orally bioavailable small molecule inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor, is the first of these targeted compounds to be approved for use in combination with gemcitabine for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Other targeted agents, including monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors aimed at a variety of targets, also have been extensively evaluated, with limited success to date. A newer strategy worth pursuing involves tailoring an individual patient's therapy according to the molecular characteristics of both host and tumor, as has shown promise in other solid tumor types.
The Validity of Perrin's Equation in Solute Quenching

Abstract Perrin's equation for solute quenching is redefined. Multicomponent concentration quenching curves are obtained by plotting log (I/c) vs. c. Addition of quencher to the solvent-solute system and use of inefficient solvent cause the quenching curves to become linear. Based on the shift of maximum activating wavelength during photo-activation, formation of excimers or molecular aggregates of similar nature is postulated to explain the observed phenomenon.
Union magazines’ coverage of the NAFTA controversy before congressional approval

Congressional consideration of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1993 drew intense labor lobbying. Unions acted to motivate members to contact their representatives and senators, including use of their magazines as advocacy and informational tools. Union magazines, which are littlestudied but potentially influential advocacy tools, attacked the pact and urged readers to take political action. Their coverage focused on jobrelated critiques, especially predictions of a job drain to Mexico and lower wages for U.S. workers. Much less attention went to environmental and other perceived flaws of NAFTA. Language in those articles was frequently more heated than in the mainstream media.
Using humor in library instruction

Purpose – To demonstrate that humor can be used as a teaching technique by instruction librarians.Design/methodology/approach – Since some students have what Constance Mellon refers to as library anxiety, humor can be used as a teaching tool to help reduce this feeling. Using the literature of higher education, this article seeks to provide practical advice on ways to use humor in the library instruction setting.Findings – The use of real‐life humorous examples demonstrates that teaching librarians can reap the benefits of using humor in the classroom. The article dispels the myth that one must be a comedian to use humor in the classroom.Practical implications – The teaching librarian can add the use of humor as a teaching tool along with other techniques to assist in reducing library anxiety, promote classroom environment and help students to get more comfortable with the library's many resources.Originality/value – This paper adds to the discussion on the use of humor in library instruction as one metho...
In vivo inhibition of rat brain protein synthesis by d-amphetamine.

— Between 1 and 4 h after rats received a single injection of d-amphetamine (15 mg/kg)(when brain polysomes are known to be disaggregated), the in vivo incorporation of [14C]lysine into trichloroacetic acid-precipitable brain protein was reduced by 28–48%. Incorporation of the 14C label into the protein present in a 100,000 g supernatant extract of whole brain was similarly reduced (by 44%). Amphetamine administration suppressed protein synthesis in rat cerebral cortex, cerebellum, hypothalamus, striatum, and brainstem to an equivalent extent. The drug did not significantly affect lysine pool sizes measured in these brain regions; thus the reduced incorporation of labeled lysine was not the result of an isotope dilution effect. We therefore conclude that the brain polysome disaggregation resulting from amphetamine administration is associated with decreased in vivo synthesis of some brain proteins.
Microbial burden and diversity of commercial airline cabin air during short and long durations of travel

Total microbial burden and diversity associated with commercial airliner cabin air was assessed by molecular methods in 125 air samples from the business-class sections of 16 domestic and international flights. Viable microbial burden within these cabin air parcels constituted only 1–10% of the total microbial population and ranged from below detection limits to 1.2 × 104 cells m–3 as determined with a validated ATP-based technology. Cultivable bacterial diversity was almost entirely limited to Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Bacillus. In contrast, cloning and sequencing 16S rRNA gene directly from the samples without cultivation indicated a significantly broader diversity, as sequences representing more than 100 species, and encompassing 12 classes of bacteria, were retrieved in varying abundance. Sequences of proteobacterial and Gram-positive lineage were retrieved most frequently (58% and 31% of all clone sequences, respectively), with Gram-positive and α-proteobacterial sequences dominating international flight samples and β- and γ-proteobacterial sequences comprising the largest portion of those retrieved from domestic flights. Significant differences in bacterial load and diversity were noted between samples obtained on domestic and international flights. The disparities observed in microbial abundance and diversity further underscore the immense value of state-of-the art molecular assays in augmenting traditional culture-based techniques.
Degradation behavior of an ultraviolet and hygrothermally aged polyurethane elastomer: Fourier transform infrared and differential scanning calorimetry studies

The degradation behavior of an elastomeric polyurethane (PU) was investigated with accelerated ultraviolet (UV) and hygrothermal (HT) techniques. Samples were subjected to UV exposure and HT conditions for 3 or 5 months and were removed in 1-month intervals from the test chambers. Their chemical structure was evaluated with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The thermal transitions of the aged samples were evaluated with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Both FTIR and DSC results showed no evidence of significant structural damage to the HT-aged PU throughout exposure. FTIR analysis of the UV-aged samples showed a noticeable change in the chemical structure of the polymer after 1 month of UV exposure. The results from DSC correlated with the FTIR analysis of the UV-aged samples. Spectroscopic and thermal analysis of the aging of the PU samples was correlated to mechanical analysis. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Dose-Response Curves for Radish Seedling Phototropism

Radish seedlings (Raphanus sativus L.) were grown for 4 days in complete darkness, or in white light, or for 3 days in darkness followed by 1 day of red light. Phototropic dose-response curves for the seedlings grown in these three ways were determined with 460-nm light. The dark-grown and red light-treated seedlings responded with positive curvatures of no more than 10° to energy doses in the first positive range and with larger positive curvatures in the second positive dose range. No indifferent or negative curvature was seen with the light intensity used. White light-grown seedlings did not respond to first positive energy doses, but responded as strongly to second positive doses as the other types of seedlings.
Short‐term aluminium uptake by tobacco cells: Growth dependence and evidence for internalization in a discrete peripheral region

Short-term uptake and initial localization of aluminium (Al) were investigated in cultured cells of Nicotiana tabacum L. cv. BY-2. Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and an in vivo Al-sensitive fluorometric assay, employing morin, yielded similar results in all experiments. Aluminium uptake was critically dependent on cell growth. As opposed to negligible uptake in stationary-phase cells, Al uptake (20 μM AlCl 3 , pH 4.5, 23°C) by actively growing cells was detectable within 5 min, with an initial rate of 16 nmol Al (10 6 cells) -1 h -1 . Increased CaCl 2 levels (up to 20 mM), low temperature (4°C), and pre-chelation of Al to citrate greatly reduced Al uptake (by 75-90%). A pH-associated permeabilization of cells at pH 4.5, as monitored by trypan blue, was observed in some growing cells. Although permeability to trypan blue was not a requirement for Al uptake, enhanced membrane permeability at pH 4.5, relative to pH 5.6, may contribute to Al uptake. Aluminium was observed to localize mainly in a pronounced and discrete fluorescent zone at the cell periphery (2-30 μm wide), presumably in the cortical cytosol and/or the adjoining plasma membrane section, although the possibility cannot be excluded that some Al resided in the cell wall apposing this discrete region. However, as judged by the Al-morin assay, there were no detectable Al levels in the remaining, larger portion of the cell wall. The potential of the Al-morin method in Al toxicity studies is illustrated.
In-Plane Thermoelectric Properties of Horizontally Aligned InAs/GaAs Quantum Dot Superlattices

The thermoelectric properties of aligned quantum dot chains are calculated taking in account the change in band structure due to quantum size effects. From the calculated band structure, the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity are calculated in a constant relaxation time approximation (CRTA). The power factor is plotted as a function of the size and spacing of dots and an increase is shown in the power factor for decreasing dot size. The net power factor is calculated using a parallel conductor model. The results are compared to the case of randomly spaced dots which have a power factor calculated using an effective resistance model.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Testicular involvement in leukemia and lymphoma

Microscopic testicular infiltration was found at autopsy in 64.3% of 140 males with acute leukemia, 22.4% of 76 males with chronic leukemia, 18.6% of 102 males with lymphosarcoma, and in none of 44 males with Hodgkin's disease. Two children with lymphomatous testicular involvement had the features of Burkitt's lymphoma. In both leukemia and lymphoma, testicular involvement at autopsy was usually associated with widespread and extensive infiltration elsewhere. Patients with acute leukemia dying with chemotherapy-induced bone marrow hypoplasia often had persistent extramedullary infiltrates; such sites were typically multiple and did not notably favor either the testis or the leptomeninges—lymph nodes, spleen, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract were as commonly or more commonly so involved. Clinically evident testicular involvement in acute leukemia has apparently increased in frequency, perhaps reflecting longer survival since the advent of chemotherapy. This complication often develops while the patient is in hematologic remission and may be followed by leukemic masses in distant sites before hematologic relapse. Six of 8 children with testicular tumefaction due to acute leukemia showed testicular fibrosis at autopsy.
Robert Frost's “On Talk of Peace at This Time”: A Third Version of an Uncollected Manuscript Poem

(1994). Robert Frost's “On Talk of Peace at This Time”: A Third Version of an Uncollected Manuscript Poem. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 7, No. 1, pp. 26-28.
A factor-analytic study of the Social Problem-Solving Inventory: An integration of theory and data

Restricted (confirmatory) and unrestricted (exploratory) factor analyses were used to investigate the factor structure of the Social Problem-Solving Inventory (SPSI; D'Zurilla & Nezu, 1990). The SPSI is based on a theoretical model consisting of two general components (problem orientation and problem-solving skills) which are further divided into seven primary subcomponents (cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of problem orientation and four specific problem-solving skills). Thus, both a two-factor model and a hierarchical model with seven first-order factors and two second-order factors were tested. The results provided only modest support for the two-factor model, and the hierarchical model failed to show substantial improvement over this model. Further analyses using exploratory as well as confirmatory methods found that an alternative five-factor model was best for the SPSI in the sense of goodness of fit, parsimony, and cross-validation. The implications of these results for social problem-solving theory and assessment are discussed.
TH-D-M100J-07: CT Image Registration in Sinogram Space

Purpose: Object displacement in a CT scan is generally reflected in CT projection data or sinogram. Conventional registrations in the image space are often adversely influenced by the reconstruction‐induced artifacts. A direct sinogram‐based registration has been studied. Method and Materials: It is found that a rigid motion only affects the projection angle and radial distance of the CT projections instead of the intensity. Simple equations have been successfully deduced. A simulated 2D phantom model was adopted and modified to test the algorithm. A physical head phantom was scanned using a kV cone beam scanner. Fan beam sinograms were then generated for the central axial plane. Upon random 2D rigid motions, registrations were carried out in the sinogram space. For every possible motion, the relevant sinogram was generated according to the discovered relationship and compared with the reference sinogram, as a result, the most likely motion was obtained. Results: Simulated and experimental results demonstrate that the new registration technique works well for registration of rigid motion in parallel beam sampling and fan beam sampling CT scans. The images were reconstructed from the registered sinograms and the spatial accuracy of this new registration was better than 2 mm. It is also found that this sinogram registration couldn't be affected by the metal filling, the truncation, or uncompleted projection set. This makes it appealing for various applications in image guided radiation therapy(IGRT).Conclusions: The direct relationships between the object motion and the change of CT projection data (sinogram) were studied and this knowledge was successfully applied to a novel algorithm for sonogram‐based registration. Calculated and experimental results demonstrate that the new registration technique works well particularly when registering images with metal or truncation artifacts.
Lucian Leape on the Causes and Prevention of Errors and Adverse Events in Health Care

In December 1998, I interviewed Lucian L. Leape, MD, a health policy analyst at the Harvard School of Public Health whose research has been focused on identifying and preventing errors in health care. As one of the major contributors to the application of scientific methods to identify and analyze errors, few are better suited to offer insights on a topic that is beginning to have a profound effect on improving health care.
Calorimetric glass transition temperature and absolute heat capacity of polystyrene ultrathin films

The absolute heat capacity and glass transition temperature (Tg) of unsupported ultrathin films were measured with differential scanning calorimetry with the step-scan method in an effort to further examine the thermodynamic behavior of glass-forming materials on the nanoscale. Films were stacked in layers with multiple preparation methods. The absolute heat capacity in both the glass and liquid states decreased with decreasing film thickness, and Tg also decreased with decreasing film thickness. The magnitude of the Tg depression was closer to that observed for films supported on rigid substrates than that observed for freely standing films. The stacked thin films regained bulk behavior after the application of pressure at a high temperature. The effects of various preparation methods were examined, including the use of polyisobutylene as an interleaving layer between the polystyrene films. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 3518–3527, 2006
Class III β-tubulin in normal and cancer tissues

Microtubules are polymeric structures composed of tubulin subunits. Each subunit consists of a heterodimer of α- and β-tubulin. At least seven β-tubulin isotypes, or classes, have been identified in human cells, and constitutive isotype expression appears to be tissue specific. Class III β-tubulin (βIII-tubulin) expression is normally confined to testes and tissues derived from neural cristae. However, its expression can be induced in other tissues, both normal and neoplastic, subjected to a toxic microenvironment characterized by hypoxia and poor nutrient supply. In this review, we will summarize the mechanisms underlying βIII-tubulin constitutive and induced expression. We will also illustrate its capacity to serve as a biomarker of neural commitment in normal tissues and as a pure prognostic biomarker in cancer patients.
Titanoceratops ouranos, a giant horned dinosaur from the late Campanian of New Mexico

Abstract At the end of the Cretaceous, 65.5 million years ago, the giant ceratopsids Triceratops and Torosaurus dominated North America’s dinosaur fauna. The origins of these giant ceratopsids, the Triceratopsini, are poorly understood. This paper describes Titanoceratops ouranos, a giant ceratopsid from the late Campanian (73–74 Ma) of New Mexico, and the earliest known triceratopsin. The holotype was previously interpreted as an aberrant and exceptionally large specimen of Pentaceratops sternbergi, but the animal does not show the diagnostic features of Pentaceratops. Instead, cladistic analysis shows that Titanoceratops is the sister taxon of a clade formed by Eotriceratops, Triceratops, and Torosaurus. With an estimated mass of 6.5 tons, Titanoceratops is among the largest dinosaurs known from the Campanian of North America, and rivaled Triceratops in size. The recognition of Titanoceratops suggests that giant chasmosaurines evolved once, among the Triceratopsini, and that the group evolved large size five million years earlier than previously thought. The giant horned dinosaurs probably originated in the southern part of the North American continent during the Campanian but only became widespread during the Maastrichtian.
Detection of human defensins in the placenta.

PROBLEM: The placenta is a highly selective barrier against the hematogenous dissemination of infectious agents. Despite the presence of seemingly intact physical and immunologic barriers, infections nonetheless occur. These observations prompted the examination of placental tissue, amnion, and chorion for previously unrecognized protective mechanisms. METHOD OF STUDY: Messenger RNA from term placenta, amnion, and chorion were reverse transcribed using a 3' RACE adapter. 3' rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted on cDNA from these tissues to detect the presence of human defensins. Southern analysis and partial sequence analysis were subsequently performed to confirm identity. RESULTS: PCR amplification of placental, amnion, and chorion cDNA yielded a 468-bp product and a weakly detectable band of 300 bp. Southern analysis demonstrated two corresponding hybridizing bands in the placenta, amnion, and chorion but not from a negative cDNA control. Partial sequence analysis of the 468-bp product from placenta confirmed the presence of either defensin 1 or 3 in human placenta. CONCLUSIONS: The human placenta, amnion, and chorion express defensins at the level of transcription. These findings suggest that a novel and previously unrecognized mechanism of protecting the fetus against infection may be present within these tissues.
Onset of long-range order in superlattices: Mean-field theory.

We discuss the onset of long-range order in a model superlattice that consists of two materials, each of which undergoes a phase transition, in bulk form. We suppose that each transition has Ising character, and describe the onset of long-range order, along with the response to a uniform external field, by use of Landau-Ginzburg theory. The issue explored is the circumstances under which the structure displays a single maximum (singularity) in the susceptibility, and those in which two maxima (one maximum, one singularity) appear, near the bulk transition temperature of each constitutent. The analysis is motivated by experimental studies of a ${\mathrm{CoF}}_{2}$/${\mathrm{FeF}}_{2}$ superlattice reported by Jaccarino and co-workers.
Detection and recovery of sublethally-injured enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus.

Aims: To determine whether sublethally-injured (acid- or heat-shocked) Staphylococcus aureus cells are recoverable using selective agar overlays. Methods and Results: Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) Agar overlaid with either Baird-Parker Agar (BPA) or Gram-Positive Agar (GPA) was compared in the ability to resuscitate heat- and acid-shocked enterotoxigenic Staph. aureus. BHI/BPA overlays allowed for greater recovery of both heat- and acid-shocked cells than BHI/GPA, although the former was not selective and allowed growth of bacteria other than Staph. aureus. No significant difference existed in percent recovery of heat- and acid-shocked cells between the two overlay approaches. Significant differences were noted in counts on BHI/GPA plates and straight selective GPA/GPA plates, however. Viability of heat- and acid-shocked Staph. aureus was also examined using fluorescence microscopy, the relative counts of which correlated well to the calculated percent recovery on selective agar overlays. Conclusions: This work has shown that an improved agar overlay technique increases the sensitivity of the standard plate count while enumerating sublethally-injured enterotoxigenic Staph. aureus compared with direct plating onto selective media. Significance and Impact of the Study: These data emphasize the need to develop practical and cost-effective methods that reliably detect and enumerate sublethally-injured pathogens such as Staph. aureus.
Synthesis and Antiviral Evaluation of Adenosine-N1-Oxide and 1-(Benzyloxy) Adenosines

Abstract The antiviral activity of adenosine-N1-oxide (1) and a variety of substituted 1-(benzyloxy) adenosines (2) has been re-investigated and significant in vitro activity vs. Vaccinia virus has been shown. In vivo activity in mice has also been demonstrated.
Preparation of SrFeO∼2.85 perovskite using a citric acid assisted Pechini-type method

Abstract Nanocrystalline SrFeO∼2.85 perovskite was synthesized by a citric acid assisted sol–gel method. The synthesis procedure was optimized by systematically varying the pH, molar ratio of citric acid to total metal cations (Ra) and calcination temperature. The resulting effects on SrCO3 impurity, surface area and crystallite size were studied. The as-prepared SrFeO∼2.85 has been characterized by elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption isotherms (BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These showed that the best conditions for preparing single phase nanocrystalline SrFeO∼2.85 perovskite powders employed pH
On the dual of a Coulter--Matthews bent function

Coulter-Matthews (CM) bent functions are from F"3"^"n to F"3 defined by Tr(ax^1^2^(^3^^^@a^+^1^)), where a@?F"3"^"n^* and (@a,2n)=1. It is not known if these bent functions are weakly regular in general. In this paper, we show that when n is even and @a=n+1 (or n-1), the CM bent function is weakly regular. Moreover, we explicitly determine the dual of the CM bent function in this case. The dual is a bent function not reported previously.
Spatio-temporal algorithms for processing laser speckle imaging data

The objective in many laser speckle imaging schemes is to relate the calculated laser speckle contrast to the object motion. In quantifying the laser speckle there are camps that advocate either the spatial or the temporal approach. Each has its merits. In this paper, we attempt to combine these two approaches to achieve a flexible, quantitative scheme. Additionally, we present some approaches that allow incorporation of prior knowledge of the subject motion. These algorithms are flexible and fast because they rely on vectorized processing. We demonstrate performance of these processing schemes on simulated and experimental speckle data.
Saturation magnetic recording process

This review of the saturation magnetic recording process is tutorial in approach. The emphasis throughout is on the development of intuitive understanding as well as the development of a first-order analysis (good to 10-20 percent) of the process. By means of treating two different functional approximations to the magnetization distribution in the medium, linear and arctangent, it is shown that the peak output voltage and half-amplitude pulse width of a transition are nearly independent of the distribution. Thus good estimates of these important system parameters may be made without reliance upon a specific model. It is made apparent that head-to-medium spacing and effective-medium thickness are of dominant importance in system density considerations.
An Unusual Case of Cardiac Amyloidosis

Cardiac amyloidosis can result from any of the systemic amyloidoses. The disease is often characterized by a restrictive cardiomyopathy although the particular signs and symptoms depend in part on the underlying cause. In addition to managing the symptoms of heart failure, treatment options vary depending on the etiology of amyloid deposition. It is therefore critical to identify the cause of cardiac amyloidosis before initiating definitive therapy. We present a patient with presumed immunoglobulin (AL) amyloidosis who had a circulating lambda monoclonal protein, but a bone marrow biopsy with kappa predominant plasma cells. This unusual finding called into question the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis and highlights the importance and difficulty of determining the cause of cardiac amyloid deposition before initiating treatment. We review the different forms of cardiac amyloidosis and propose a diagnostic algorithm to help identify the etiology of cardiac amyloid deposition before beginning therapy.
"Benign" monoclonal gammopathy--after 20 to 35 years of follow-up.

All 241 patients with an apparently benign monoclonal gammopathy who were examined at the Mayo Clinic before Jan. 1, 1971, underwent prospective follow-up for 20 to 35 years (median, 22 years). Electrophoresis and immunoelectrophoresis of serum and urine specimens were performed periodically in an effort to determine the frequency of development of multiple myeloma, primary amyloidosis, macroglobulinemia, or other lymphoproliferative diseases. At follow-up, the patients were categorized into one of four groups: group 1 (benign)—46 patients (19%) who were alive and had a benign monoclonal gammopathy; group 2—23 patients (10%) who had a serum monoclonal protein value of 3 g/dl or more but did not require chemotherapy; group 3—113 patients (47%) who died without evidence of myeloma or related disorders; and group 4—59 patients (24%) in whom multiple myeloma (39), systemic amyloidosis (8), macroglobulinemia (7), or a malignant lymphoproliferative disease (5) developed at a median of 10, 9, 8, and 10½ years, respectively, after detection of the monoclonal protein. Thus, in patients with an apparently benign monoclonal gammopathy, follow-up must be continued indefinitely because multiple myeloma, amyloidosis, macroglobulinemia, or related disorders occur in approximately a fourth of them.
The Universality of Management: A Comment

The article presents a letter to the editor in response to the June 1967 article “The Universality of Management,” by William V. Muse.
Treatment of Implantable NF2 Schwannoma Tumor Models with Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus G47Δ

Schwannomas are benign tumors composed of dedifferentiated Schwann cells that form along peripheral nerves causing nerve compression often associated with pain and loss of function. Current surgical therapy involves total or subtotal surgical removal of the tumor, which may cause permanent nerve damage. In the present study, we explore an alternate means of therapy in which schwannomas are injected with a replication-conditional herpes simplex virus (HSV) vector to shrink the tumor through cell lysis during virus propagation. The oncolytic vector used, G47Delta, has deletions in HSV genes, which allow it to replicate selectively in dividing cells, sparing neurons. Two schwannoma cell lines were used to generate subcutaneous tumors in nude mice: HEI193, an immortalized human line previously established from an NF2 patient and NF2S-1, a newly generated spontaneous mouse line. Subcutaneous HEI193 tumors grew about ten times as fast as NF2S-1 tumors, and both regressed substantially following injection of G47Delta. Complete regression of HEI193 tumors was achieved in most animals, whereas all NF2S-1 tumors resumed growth within 2 weeks after vector injection. These studies provide a new schwannoma model for testing therapeutic strategies and demonstrate that oncolytic HSV vectors can be successfully used to shrink growing schwannomas.
Guido van Rossum: The Modern Era of Python

Python creator Guido van Rossum talks about the growing pains--and rewards--the programming language experienced as it evolved. The first Web extra at http://youtu.be/rTTFh7HOlC0 is a video in which Python creator Guido van Rossum talks with Charles Severance about the growing pains and rewards the programming language experienced as it evolved. The second Web extra at http://youtu.be/dgWH-1dCTVM is an audio recording of the Computing Conversations column in which author Charles Severance discusses his interview with Guido van Rossum about the growing pains and rewards the Python programming language experienced as it evolved.
Of sex roles and strollers: Female and male attention to toddlers at the zoo

Research supports the conclusion that adults interact differently with children of different sexes. Laboratory and home studies indicate that fathers/adult males are the primary agents of sex typing and that mothers/adult females are the primary caretakers, especially regarding the managerial aspects of child care. Little attention, however, has been directed at the public display of these differences and their covariance. Observations were made of 6414 visitors to the Sacramento zoo, with 524 adult females, 524 adult males, and 524 toddler triumvirates targeted for specific analyses of adult-child interactions and caretaking behaviors. Males were significantly more likely to carry female toddlers than male toddlers, while females made no such distinction. Adult females were more likely than adult males to push the child's stroller. Related research on the father's role in sex-typing behavior and the role of the division of child care between parents in the maintenance and reproduction of gender roles is discussed.
Labor Policies for the Struggle With Soviet Communism

ACCORDING TO a well-known business analyst, "unionism has served its most important historical purpose." In a rapidly changing world, institutions are prone to lag behind the tide of technological, political, and economic events, to fight past wars. Labor organizations may be afflicted with a backward-looking attitude at a time and place when there is urgent need for new methods and new basic demands.
Supporting quantified queries in distributed databases

We show that some relational queries, which we call quantified queries are not well supported in distributed environments. We give a formal definition of quantified queries, propose a language in which to express said queries and provide a procedure to compute answers in this new language in the context of distributed databases. The proposed language is made up of high-level, declarative operators (called generalised quantifiers), and therefore it can be used in combination with several distributed frameworks. Our approach is designed to be as general as possible; it assumes horizontally partitioned relations, but nothing else, so no data placement or replication is used. We present an implementation and algorithms for the new language, propose some basic optimisations and give experimental results which show that the new approach is indeed quite efficient and scales well.
Referendum Voting as Political Choice: The Case of Quebec

In an article published in this Journal, Nadeau, Martin and Blais argue that perceptions of the costs and benefits of alternative outcomes and general orientations to risk interact to affect voters' decisions in referendums on fundamental political questions such as Quebec sovereignty. We use Nadeau et al.'s data to demonstrate that their interaction-effects model is overly complex and suffers from serious multicollinearity difficulties. A simpler main-effects model has virtually identical explanatory power and removes anomalous findings. We also argue that their model is too simple because it omits variables such as party identification, feelings about party leaders and government performance evaluations that voters use as heuristic devices to help them make decisions when stakes are high and information about the costs and benefits of referendum outcomes is low. We analyse a dataset that includes these variables and demonstrate that they have strong effects in a model of referendum voting that controls for perceived costs and benefits of alternative referendum outcomes and several other variables. Additionally, differences in the magnitudes of the perceived costs and perceived benefits of alternative referendum outcomes are not statistically significant. This latter finding contradicts widely cited experimental results in behavioural economics and related ‘asymmetry’ hypotheses concerning the presumed status quo bias in major referendums.
Toward a unified theory of weakly rational choice

Abstract A theory of weakly rational choice is developed by replacing the directly revealed strict preference relation in the traditional theory with a primitive binary relation interpreted as an indirectly revealed strict preference relation. We characterize weakly rational choice, weakly quasitransitive-rational choice, weakly transitive-rational choice, and weakly additive-rational choice in terms of appropriate revealed preference axioms. Our approach unifies a number of recently proposed models of weakly rational choice.
Epidermal growth factor alters fibroblast migration speed and directional persistence reciprocally and in a matrix-dependent manner

Growth factors stimulate sustained cell migration as well as inducing select acute motility-related events such as membrane ruffling and disruption of focal adhesions. However, an in-depth understanding of the characteristics of sustained migration that are regulated by growth factor signals is lacking: how the biochemical signals are related to physical processes underlying locomotion, and how these events are coordinately influenced by interplay between growth factor and matrix substratum signals. To address these issues, we studied sustained migration of NR6 fibroblasts on a complex human matrix substratum, Amgel, comparing effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) treatment across a range of Amgel levels. In the absence of EGF, cell migration speed and directional persistence are relatively independent of Amgel level, whereas in the presence of EGF speed is increased at intermediate Amgel levels but not at low and high Amgel levels while directional persistence is decreased at intermediate but not at low and high Amgel levels. The net effect of EGF is to increase the frequency of changes in the cell direction, and at the same time to slightly increase the path-length and thereby greatly enhance random dispersion of cells. Despite increasing migration speed during long-term sustained migration EGF treatment does not lead to significantly increased absolute rates of membrane extension in contrast to its well-known elicitation of membrane ruffling in the short term. However, EGF treatment does decrease cell spread area, yielding an apparent enhancement of specific membrane extension rate, i.e. normalized to cell spread area. Cell movement speed and directional persistence are thus, respectively, directly related and indirectly related to the increase in specific membrane extension rate (alternatively, the decrease in cell spread area) induced by EGF treatment during sustained migration. These results indicate that growth factor and matrix substrata coordinately regulate sustained cell migration through combined governance of underlying physical processes.
Inactivation of Airborne Microorganisms Using Novel Ultraviolet Radiation Sources in Reflective Flow-Through Control Devices

The goal of this study was to design, test, and model cylindrical flow-through control devices used to inactivate airborne microorganisms with non-mercury radiation sources and a reflective coating, through a broad relative humidity (RH) range. Bench-scale tests determined the effectiveness of three different UV-C sources–light emitting diode (LED), xenon, and mercury. In addition to measurements, modeling was performed that combined photon tracing, computational fluid dynamics, and particle tracking to predict the effectiveness of the respective UV challenges. Regardless of device configuration, UV-induced inactivation of airborne Bacillus subtilis and Mycobacterium parafortuitum was markedly sensitive to low humidity (15 % RH). Actinometry measurements determined that a high reflectance wall coating increased the fluence rate by a factor of 1.6. Predictions of inactivation effectiveness using this hybrid model were in good agreement with experimental observations with errors of less than 15 %.
Iron status and exercise

The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia is likely to be higher in athletic populations and groups, especially in younger female athletes, than in healthy sedentary individuals. In anemic individuals, iron deficiency often not only decreases athletic performance but also impairs immune function and leads to other physiologic dysfunction. Although it is likely that dietary choices explain much of a negative iron balance, evidence also exists for increased rates of red cell iron and whole-body iron turnover. Other explanations of decreased absorption and increased sweat or urine losses are unlikely. The young female athlete may want to consider use of low-dose iron supplements under medical and dietary supervision to prevent a decline in iron status during training.