cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gravure printed surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates for detection of toxic heavy metal compounds

A novel flexible surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrate was successfully fabricated by gravure printing a silver (Ag) nanoparticle ink, with a particle size of ∼20–50 nm particle size, as a metallization layer on a flexible polyethylene terephthalate film (PET). The capability of the fabricated SERS substrate to be used as a sensor for detecting toxic heavy metal compounds, such as mercury sulfide (HgS) was demonstrated. An enhancement factor of 5 orders of magnitude was obtained when compared to the intensity of a Raman spectrum of for target molecules adsorbed onto bare PET. Theis response obtained demonstrated the feasibility of thise novel SERS substrate to be used in applications for the detection of toxic heavy metals. In addition, the effect of temperature on the intensity of the Raman spectrum was also tested. The results showed an 85 % decrease in intensity at 85 °C, when compared with the intensity of te Raman sprectrum at 25 °C.
Acute pancreatitis induces FasL gene expression and apoptosis in the liver.

Background Liver injury is an important prognostic indicator in acute pancreatitis. We previously demonstrated that Kupffer cell-derived cytokines mediate liver injury. In this work, we sought to characterize the role of Fas Ligand (FasL) in liver injury during acute pancreatitis. Methods Acute pancreatitis was induced in mice using cerulein; serum FasL, AST, ALT, liver FasL, p38-MAPK, and caspase-3 were measured. FasL mRNA and protein and its receptor (Fas) were determined in rat Kupffer cells treated with elastase (1 U/ml) to mimic acute pancreatitis. Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry. Results Cerulein-induced pancreatitis increased serum AST, ALT, and FasL and up-regulated liver FasL (1315 ± 111 versus 310 ± 164 pg/ml, P = 0.002 versus sham), while inducing p38-MAPK phosphorylation ( P versus sham) and cleavage of caspase-3 ( P versus sham); all were attenuated by pretreatment with the Kupffer cell inhibitor, gadolinium (all P In vitro , elastase induced a time-dependent increase in Kupffer cell FasL protein (FasL = 404 ± 94 versus 170 ± 40, P = 0.02, versus control), a 100-fold increase in FasL mRNA, and up-regulated Fas (FasL receptor). Gadolinium significantly attenuated the elastase-induced increase in FasL and FasL mRNA (FasL = 230 ± 20 versus 404 ± 94, P = 0.01, versus elastase) but had little effect on Fas. Additionally, elastase-primed Kupffer cell media induced apoptosis in hepatocytes (29 ± 1 versus 16% ± 1%; versus control, P Conclusions Acute pancreatitis induces liver injury and hepatocyte death while up-regulating FasL, p38-MAPK, and caspase-3. Fas is up-regulated within Kupffer cells, suggesting that FasL may autoregulate its production by inducing its originator-cell death. The ability to manipulate interactions between Kupffer cells and hepatocytes may have important therapeutic implications.
An Investigation of Varietal Differences in the Iodine-Binding Capacities of Crystalline Rice Amylosesa

SUMMARY Purified amyloses have been obtained from four widely different varieties of rice by alcohol fractionation of the corresponding starch. Each variety of amylose was found to bind 18.9 mg of iodine per 100 mg of amylose on the basis of solvent-free carbohydrate. Viscosity measurements in potassium hydroxide solutions have made possible the calculation of the viscosity-average molecular weights. These molecular weights were found to be: Century Patna 231, 100,000; Caloro, 140,000; Rexoro, 325,000; and Zenith, 310,000. Beta-amylase action on Century Patna and Rexoro amyloses indicated that the structures of both were similar.
Chemisorption and thermal chemistry of azulene and naphthalene adsorbed on Pt(111)

Abstract : The ordering phenomena and thermal chemistry of the isomeric aromatic hydrocarbons azulene and naphthalene have been studied on a Pt(III) surface. Complete dehydrogenation with an onset of about 200 C is the eventual fate of these molecules absorbed on Pt(III). Several ordered phases exist for azulene overlayers as a function of coverage. Azulene overlayers with C/Pt atom ratios in the range 1-1.3 exhibit a reversible transition with temperature. The orientational ordering of neighboring molecules appears to be governed by intermolecular forces rather than the molecule-Pt interaction in both azulene and naphthalene overlayers. (Author)
Tullock contests of weakly heterogeneous players

I explore asymmetric equilibria in a Tullock contest of heterogeneous players in the case when the players’ heterogeneity is weak, and the effort optimization problem can be analyzed in the linear approximation. With increasing discriminatory power of the contest, players sequentially drop out. The corresponding threshold values of the discriminatory power are related to those identified earlier for a Tullock contest of identical players. Weak heterogeneity, however, is sufficient to make the players’ behavior strongly asymmetric and qualitatively alter the structure of the equilibria as compared to the homogeneous case.
Achievement goal theory: A framework for implementing group work and open-ended problem solving

In educational psychology, achievement goal theory (AGT) has emerged as a useful framework for understanding student motivation and performance. This paper uses AGT to examine the effects of curriculum and pedagogy on student and instructor goal orientations in mathematics, physics, and engineering courses in a first-year engineering program. The following questions guide our analysis: (a) How do the existing curricula and pedagogies affect a performance goal orientation development? (b) In which ways do the existing curricula and pedagogies encourage a development of mastery goal orientation? The results of this qualitative study indicate: (1) contention between the instructors' goals and students' experiences of group work and open-ended learning experiences; (2) the negative impact of time pressure on successfully implementing mastery goal-oriented teaching strategies; (3) students' maintenance of a performance goal orientation with high emphasis on grades rather than learning and engagement in work avoidance strategies to minimize work time, despite instructors' efforts to encourage a mastery goal orientation; (4) dependence of student goal orientation on assessment mechanisms (grades) and perceived course “usefulness”. It is argued that AGT may help to frame positive changes in curricula and pedagogy to benefit overall student learning.
A20: more than one way to skin a cat.

In this issue of Molecular Cell , Skaug et al. (2011) propose a polyubiquitin-dependent, noncatalytic mechanism by which the deubiquitinase A20 inhibits IκB kinase and NF-κB activation.
Content and Evaluation in Ethnic Stereotypes

This study continues a line of investigation of ethnic stereotypes initiated by Katz and Braly in 1933. Judges (N # 200 men and women) carried out a Q-sort of 84 adjectives in relation to their app...
New Species of Argidae and Pergidae (Hymenoptera) from Central America1

Abstract Scobina lattini, n. sp., from Costa Rica and Panama, S. alas, n. sp., from Costa Rica (Argidae), and Decameria lattini, n. sp., from Costa Rica (Pergidae) are described. The species are illustrated, and a key is presented for the four species of Scobina having bicolored wings in which vein M meets Sc+R some distance from the point where vein Rs+M meets Sc+R.
Non-uniform heat transfer behavior during shell solidification in a wide and thick slab continuous casting mold

By employing a two-dimensional transient thermo-mechanical coupled finite element model for simulating shell heat transfer behaviors within a slab continuous casting mold, we predicted the evolution of shell deformation and the thermal behaviors, including the mold flux film dynamical distribution, the air gap formation, as well as the shell temperature field and the growth of carbon steel solidification, in a 2120 mm × 266 mm slab continuous casting mold. The results show that the shell server deformation occurs in the off-corners in the middle and lower parts of the mold and thus causes the thick mold flux film and air gap to distribute primarily in the regions of 0–140 mm and 0–124 mm and 0–18 mm and 0–10 mm, respectively, from the corners of the wide and narrow faces of the shell under typical casting conditions. As a result, the hot spots, which result from the thick mold flux film filling the shell/mold gap, form in the regions of 20–100 mm from the corners of the wide and narrow faces of the shell and tend to expand as the shell moves downward.
Towards a shell model description of the low-energy structure of deformed nuclei I. Even-even systems

A microscopic shell model theory for the low-lying collective states of heavy deformed nuclei is described. Basis selection is guided by the Bohr-Mottelson-Nilsson picture of collective motion in nuclei. The necessary further truncation is achieved by exploiting an SU(3) symmetry inherent to the structure of the normal parity states and by restricting abnormal parity configurations to states with low seniority. An effective interaction comprised of operators which form an integrity basis for the SU(3)..-->..R(3) algebra is shown to be sufficient to reproduce almost exactly, within a single leading irreducible representation of SU(3), the ground and gamma band rotational structure of eight rare earth (/sup 160/Dy, /sup 162/Dy, /sup 164/Dy, /sup 164/Er, /sup 166/Er, /sup 168/Er, /sup 166/Yb, /sup 168/Yb) and four actinide (/sup 232/Th, /sup 234/U, /sup 236/U, /sup 238/U) nuclei. The concomitant interband and intraband E2 strengths are also shown to be accurately reproduced. Extensions of the theory and necessary further theoretical investigations are reviewed.
Hydroxide Degradation Pathways for Substituted Trimethylammonium Cations: A DFT Study

Substituted trimethylammonium cations serve as small molecule analogues for tetherable cations in anion exchange membranes. In turn, these membranes serve as the basis for alkaline membrane fuel cells by allowing facile conduction of hydroxide. As these cations are susceptible to hydroxide attack, they degrade over time and greatly limit the lifetime of the fuel cell. In this research, we performed density functional theory calculations to investigate the degradation pathways of substituted trimethylammonium cations to probe the relative durability of cation tethering strategies in alkyl and aromatic tethers. Our results show that significant changes in calculated energy barriers occur when substitution groups change. Specifically, we have found that, when available, the Hofmann elimination pathway is the most vulnerable pathway for degradation; however, this barrier is also found to depend on the carbon chain length and number of hydrogens susceptible to Hofmann elimination. S{sub N}2 barriers were also investigated for both methyl groups and substitution groups. The reported findings give important insight into potential tethering strategies for trimethylammonium cations in anion exchange membranes.
Bends in fish.

Abstract 1. 1. Fish mortality due to low-level nitrogen supersaturation in natural waters (as little as 15 per cent) raises the question of their sensitivity to decompression-induced diver's bends. 2. 2. Fingerling salmonids ( Salmo gairdnerii and Onchorhynchus kisutch ) have been saturated with air, and normoxic helium and argon at a range of initial pressures ( P i ), ∗ up to 6 atm, and then decompressed through a range of initial/final pressure ( P f ) ratios ( P i / P f ) as high as 8.0. 3. 3. The results clearly show marked differences in bends-producing potential of these different gases with formation of histologically demonstrated tissue bubbles and emphasize the unsuitability of either excess partial pressure (AP) or relative decompression ( P i / P f ) as predictive indices of decompression stress. 4. 4. The results indicate that experimental determination of the critical conditions for bubble formation in blood and tissues in vivo may be possible with such material to a precision not possible in mammalian studies.
Stoichiometry and Coupling: Theories of Oxidative Phosphorylation

AN integral and constant stoichiometric ratio is usually assumed to relate to coupled metabolic processes. In particular, the ratio of ATP production to oxygen consumption (P/O) is considered integral and constant in all discussions of oxidative phosphorylation. This view is maintained despite the fact that it conflicts with a great deal of experimental evidence1. Although the discrepancies are often explained on the basis of technical difficulties, Slater2 has pointed out that some uncoupling may represent physiological reactions, and that it is probably not possible completely to eliminate “uncoupled” reactions. We feel that despite the recognition of intrinsic uncoupling, its true significance has not been appreciated. Mechanisms and efficiency are still invariably assessed in terms of stoichiometry. We shall discuss some sources of non-stoichiometry, and then consider the implications of incomplete coupling, with particular reference to theories of oxidative phosphorylation.
Integrated Solvent Selection and Recycling for Continuous Processes

This paper presents a real world case study where a multiobjective programming (MOP) framework under uncertainty is used for simultaneous integration of environmentally benign solvent (EBS) selection and in-process solvent (IPS) recycling. At the EBS selection level within this framework, the Hammersley stochastic annealing algorithm is applied to design candidate EBSs under uncertainty. This algorithm can efficiently optimize stochastic combinatorial optimization problems and generate a different set of candidate EBSs from that of the deterministic EBS selection model. At the IPS recycling level, Aspen Plus with a nonlinear programming technique is used to optimize the acetic acid recovery process. Then, these EBS selection and IPS recycling models are integrated under the MOP framework. At the MOP level, an efficient constraint MOP algorithm is employed to evenly approximate the Pareto solution surface (i.e., tradeoff surface). Four objectivesacetic acid recovery, process flexibility, and two environmen...
User experience with commercial music services: An empirical exploration

The music information retrieval MIR community has long understood the role of evaluation as a critical component for successful information retrieval systems. Over the past several years, it has also become evident that user-centered evaluation based on realistic tasks is essential for creating systems that are commercially marketable. Although user-oriented research has been increasing, the MIR field is still lacking in holistic, user-centered approaches to evaluating music services beyond measuring the performance of search or classification algorithms. In light of this need, we conducted a user study exploring how users evaluate their overall experience with existing popular commercial music services, asking about their interactions with the system as well as situational and personal characteristics. In this paper, we present a qualitative heuristic evaluation of commercial music services based on Jakob Nielsen's 10 usability heuristics for user interface design, and also discuss 8 additional criteria that may be used for the holistic evaluation of user experience in MIR systems. Finally, we recommend areas of future user research raised by trends and patterns that surfaced from this user study.
2-Bromo-2-propyl phenyl sulfone

Crystalline 2-bromo-2-propyl phenyl sulfone (α-bromo­iso­propyl phenyl sulfone), C9H11BrO2S, exhibits no rotational disorder of its α-bromo­iso­propyl group, in contrast to the large disorder of the same group exhibited by crystalline 2-bromo-2-propyl mesityl sulfone.
Library instruction and information literacy – 2004

Purpose – Sets out to provide a selected bibliography or recent resources on library instruction and information literacy.Design/methodology/approach – Introduces and annotates periodical articles, monographs, and exhibition catalogues examining library instruction and information literacy.Findings – Provides information about each source, discusses the characteristics of current scholarship, and describes sources that contain unique scholarly contributions and quality reproductions.Originality/value – The information may be used by librarians and interested parties as a quick reference to literature on library instruction and information literacy.
Biosynthesis of very long-chain methyl-branched alcohols, their acetate esters and hydrocarbons in pupae of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta

The long-chain methyl-branched alcohols (C25 to C32) and very long-chain methyl-branched alcohols (C38 to >C44) and their acetate esters, were the lipid classes most actively synthesized from radiolabeled acetate and propionate during 8–10 days after pupation in developing male pupae of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. Acylglycerol and wax ester biosynthesis did not occur during this time period. Long-chain methyl-branched hydrocarbons were synthesized during 3–5 days after pupation and on the day prior to eclosion. The levels of methyl-branched alcohols rose from about 110 μg/pupa at 2 days after pupation, reached a maximum of 550 μg/pupa at 9 days after pupation and decreased to 90 μg/pupa by 19 days after pupation. The acetate ester concentration of the methyl-branched alcohols rose from 30 μg/pupa at 2 days after pupation to a maximum of about 750 μg/pupa at day 9. The levels declined to about 15 μg/pupa at day 19. The proportions of very long-chain methyl-branched alcohols were >83% of the total methyl-branched alcohols and their acetate esters were >93% of the total acetate esters.
SU-E-T-455: Characterization of 3D Printed Materials for Proton Beam Therapy

Purpose: The widespread availability of low cost 3D printing technologies provides an alternative fabrication method for customized proton range modifying accessories such as compensators and boluses. However the material properties of the printed object are dependent on the printing technology used. In order to facilitate the application of 3D printing in proton therapy, this study investigated the stopping power of several printed materials using both proton pencil beam measurements and Monte Carlo simulations. Methods: Five 3–4 cm cubes fabricated using three 3D printing technologies (selective laser sintering, fused-deposition modeling and stereolithography) from five printers were investigated. The cubes were scanned on a CT scanner and the depth dose curves for a mono-energetic pencil beam passing through the material were measured using a large parallel plate ion chamber in a water tank. Each cube was measured from two directions (perpendicular and parallel to printing plane) to evaluate the effects of the anisotropic material layout. The results were compared with GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulation using the manufacturer specified material density and chemical composition data. Results: Compared with water, the differences from the range pull back by the printed blocks varied and corresponded well with the material CT Hounsfield unit. The measurement resultsmore » were in agreement with Monte Carlo simulation. However, depending on the technology, inhomogeneity existed in the printed cubes evidenced from CT images. The effect of such inhomogeneity on the proton beam is to be investigated. Conclusion: Printed blocks by three different 3D printing technologies were characterized for proton beam with measurements and Monte Carlo simulation. The effects of the printing technologies in proton range and stopping power were studied. The derived results can be applied when specific devices are used in proton radiotherapy.« less
Forecasting vertical ground surface movement from shrinking/swelling soils with artificial neural networks

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are used to estimate vertical ground surface movement when soils expand and contract due to changes in soil moisture content caused by changing climate conditions. Several counterpropagation ANN test cases were investigated to map climate data (i.e. temperature and rainfall) to vertical ground surface movement at field sites in Texas and Australia. Three of the four ANN test cases use a historical time series of climate data to forecast ground surface elevation relative to a specified datum. The fourth ANN test case predicts the rate of ground surface movement, and requires post-processing of the predicted rates to calculate ground surface elevation relative to a specified datum. The counterpropagation network has demonstrated a successful mapping of temperature and rainfall data to vertical ground surface movement at a field site when it is trained with a subset of data from the same field site (test cases 1 and 2). The results of training an ANN on one field site and testing it on another field site (test cases 3 and 4) demonstrate the ability of the ANN to capture trends in vertical ground surface movement. When compared with the predictions from a physics-based method (shrink test-water content method) that requires measurements/estimates of changes in soil water content, the ANN-based predictions (based on climatic changes) captured the trends in the field measurements of shrinking–swelling soil surface movements equally well. These findings are promising and merit further investigation with data from additional field sites. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long-term Botulinum Toxin Treatment of Benign Essential Blepharospasm, Hemifacial Spasm, and Meige Syndrome

Purpose To report the clinical success and incidence of adverse events of repetitive botulinum toxin treatment of 15 years or greater. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods The study sample consisted of 37 patients from a clinical practice, 11 male and 26 female. Inclusion criteria consisted of patients treated a minimum of 15 consecutive years for facial dystonia. Seven patients had hemifacial spasm, 4 Meige syndrome, and 26 benign essential blepharospasm. Main outcome measures consisted of treatment efficacy and adverse events. Results Mean treatment duration was 19.4 years (SD 2.2) with an average of 62 (SD 22) treatments of 70.2 (SD 20.8) neurotoxin units. Mean duration of treatment efficacy was 127 days (SD 37) with a 5% physician-reported minor adverse event rate and no major adverse events over each patient's clinical course. Patients reported no major and 20% incidence of minor adverse events over the treatment course. Conclusion Results suggest that long-term botulinum toxin treatment produces clinical success in the alleviation of facial dystonia symptoms. Treatment produced a low incidence of major adverse events and minor adverse events. Previous studies may under-report clinical success and over-report adverse events because of study design.
Chlorination increases the persistence of semiquinone free radicals derived from polychlorinated biphenyl hydroquinones and quinones.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) comprise a group of persistent organic pollutants that differ significantly in their physicochemical properties, their persistence, and their biological activities. They can be metabolized via hydroxylated and dihydroxylated metabolites to PCB quinone intermediates. We have recently demonstrated that both dihydroxy PCBs and PCB quinones can form semiquinone radicals (SQ•−) in vitro. These semiquinone radicals are reactive intermediates that have been implicated in the toxicity of lower chlorinated PCB congeners. Here we describe the synthesis of selected PCB metabolites with differing degrees of chlorination on the oxygenated phenyl ring, e.g., 4,4′-dichloro-biphenyl-2,5-diol, 3,6,4′-trichloro-biphenyl-2,5-diol, 3,4,6,-trichloro-biphenyl-2,5-diol, and their corresponding quinones. In addition, two chlorinated o-hydroquinones were prepared, 6-chloro-biphenyl-3,4-diol and 6,4′-dichloro-biphenyl-3,4-diol. These PCB (hydro-)quinones readily react with oxygen or via comproporti...
Corrosion of selected metal alloys in Utah geothermal waters

A potentiodynamic polarization technique has been applied to characterize the corrosion behavior of AISl 316L stainless steel, an iron-based alloy (9Cr-1Mo), a nickel-based alloy (INCONEL® alloy 625),* and mild steel ASTM A-36 in Utah geothermal waters. The effect of temperature on pitting potential and corrosion rate was measured. Corrosion rate for the selected metal alloys was affected greatly by temperature. The pitting potentials decreased with increasing temperature. The nickel-based alloy was strongly resistant to the Utah geothermal water used and did not undergo pitting corrosion. All measurements of corrosion—corrosion rate, pit density, maximum pit depth, charge consumed, and polarization resistance—corroborate the decrease in corrosion rate at tested temperatures.
Modeling of residential structure fire response: Exploring the hyper-project

Abstract Emergency service systems such as community fire departments respond to and resolve unplanned events within a given service area. A review of the literature addressing such systems indicates that existing research is almost exclusively focused on higher level planning issues such as facility location and resource allocation. In contrast, this study addresses the operational level of such a system, an existing fire department's response to residential structure fire. Such a response exhibits many of the elements of traditional project management, such as distinctly defined tasks and significant predecessor relationships. However, the defining characteristic of these projects is not simply expediency, but the fact that the structure of the project can change if the preceding project structure does not complete some aspect of its task sequence within an interval of time dictated by some external pacing function. What emerges is a unique and intriguing class of project, dubbed the hyper-project in this study. The concept of the hyper-project is discussed both in its general form and with respect to the aforementioned case study example. Readily transferable to non-emergency applications, the hyper-project typifies and unites a heretofore unrecognized family of operations, highlighting the opportunities for future research.
Strict rational expectations equilibria with diffuseness

Abstract For smooth static pure-exchange economies under uncertainty, it is shown that a diffuseness condition on the distribution of traders' characteristics as the state of the world varies permits one to use only a weak dimensionality restriction in the proof of the genericity of existence of strict rational expectations equilibria. A generic result on the amount of information conveyed by equilibrium price functions and comparisons with some examples of nonexistence are given.
The kinetics of p-nitrophenyl-β-d-cellobioside hydrolysis and transglycosylation by Thermobifida fusca Cel5Acd

Abstract The hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl-β-1,4-cellobioside (pNP-G2) by the catalytic domain of the retaining-family 5-2 endocellulase Cel5A from Thermobifida fusca (Cel5Acd) was studied. The dominant reaction pathway involves hydrolysis of the aglyconic bond, producing cellobiose (G2) and a ‘reporter’ species p-nitrophenol (pNP), which was monitored spectrophotometrically to track the reaction. We also detected the production of cellotriose (G3) and p-nitrophenyl-glucoside (pNP-G1), confirming the presence of a competing transglycosylation pathway. We use a mechanistic model of hydrolysis and transglycosylation to derive an expression for the rate of pNP-formation as a function of enzyme concentration, substrate concentration, and several lumped kinetics parameters. The derivation assumes that the quasi-steady-state assumption (QSSA) applies for three intermediate species in the mechanism; we determine conditions under which this assumption is rigorously justified. We integrate the rate expression and compare its integral form to pNP-versus-time data collected for a range of enzyme and substrate concentrations. The integral comparison gives a stringent test of the mechanistic model, and it serves to quantify the lumped kinetics parameters with good statistical precision, particularly a previously unidentified parameter that determines the selectivity of hydrolysis versus transglycosylation. The integrated rate expression accounts well for pNP-versus-time data under all circumstances we have investigated.
Transnational alienage and foreignness: deportees and Foreign Service Officers in Central America

The literature on transnationalism has emphasised the ways that citizenship practices can transcend borders, for example, enabling migrants to use resources acquired outside of their country of origin to engage politically within it. This literature has not, however, addressed how migrants fall outside of rather than transcend national boundaries. To analyse this condition, we develop the concepts of transnational alienage and foreignness and apply them to the experiences of two groups: (1) US Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) stationed in Central America and Mexico and (2) long-time US residents who were deported to El Salvador. Though positioned quite differently, there are also surprising intersections in FSOs’ and deportees’ social locations. These intersections shed light on the forms of citizenship and alterity created by the transnational security regimes in which both FSOs and deportees are situated. Our analysis draws on interviews conducted in the US, Mexico and Central America between 2008 and 2010.
Parasites and associated pathology observed in cetaceans stranded along the Oregon coast.

Forty-two seals and sea lions found dead along the Oregon Coast were examined for parasites and associated pathology. Nematode infections of the lung and/or gastrointestinal tract were the primary cause of death in 5 of 42 animals examined. New distribution records were established for Pricetrema zalophi and Zalophotrema hepaticum. New host records include Z. hepaticum and Diphyllobothrium cordatum in the Steller's sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus); Nanophyetus salmincola in the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus); P. zalophi in the harbor seal (Phoca vitulina); and P. zalophi, Trigonocotyle sp. and Otostrongylus circumlitus in the northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris).
Using Student Projects to Acquire Demonstrations for the Classroom and Laboratory

As part of the requirements for a Sensation and Perception course, students constructed and demonstrated a sensory or perceptual phenomenon. A special feature of this requirement was the request to donate the project to the Psychology Department for use in other classes. Students willingly complied with the request. Overall evaluation of the project was very positive.
The emerging fertility transition in sub-Saharan Africa.

Abstract This paper summarizes the recent evidence on levels, trends and differentials in achieved fertility, nuptiality, and contraceptive use in sub-Saharan Africa. Drawing from a wide variety of data sources, not all of which have been readily available in the past, an interesting picture of fertility decline emerges, one that is quite at odds with the popular perception of stationary or very limited fertility decline. A fairly widespread decline in fertility is currently underway across Africa. Moderate to large declines in fertility have already taken place in Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, and Cote d'Ivoire, with smaller declines observed in Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Ghana, Mauritania, Senegal, and Sierra Leone. The driving forces behind these changes are later marriage and the greater use of modern contraception. A unique characteristic of African transitions appears to be the extent to which contraceptives are being used to space rather than to limit births.
Employee Assistance Programs for the New Millennium: Emergence of the Comprehensive Model

This article reviews the historical evolution of employee assistance programs (EAPs) in the United States over the past 40 years, and concludes that the future of employee assistance lies with its adoption of a Comprehensive Service Program model. To be successful, EAP providers also will need to move away from their current “commodity focus” and “return on investment [ROI] paradigm.” Instead, they must begin to identify the critical functions EAPs perform for work organizations that make them indispensable strategic partners in employers’ universal pursuit of productivity and innovation. To achieve this goal, the Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) and Employee Assistance Society of North America (EASNA) must focus on developing a uniform university-based EAP curriculum; moving assertively toward universal state licensure; and actively promoting an evidence-informed, program-based research agenda.
Locomotor-Activated Neurons of the Cat. I. Serotonergic Innervation and Co-Localization of 5-HT7, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT1A Receptors in the Thoraco-Lumbar Spinal Cord

Monoamines are strong modulators and/or activators of spinal locomotor networks. Thus monoaminergic fibers likely contact neurons involved in generating locomotion. The aim of the present study was...
The stranger as seer or voyeur: A dilemma of the peep-show theory of knowledge

The belief that ‘the stranger’ (outsider, disinterested third party) sees things more clearly, i.e. is more “objective,” is seen to be a corner-stone of folk wisdom; underlying Western judicial thought and concepts of objectivity in the social sciences. The author raises the dilemma that both positivistic and humanistic sociologists accept this belief—suggesting 1) that it is a residue of positivism and a quest for certain knowledge, or 2) the possibility that ‘the stranger’ does gain deeper insight into group life than members. The paper examines the concept of the stranger, considering the aura of charisma that seems to have been attached to it in ordinary discourse as well as within the sociological dialogue. Two types of strangers are described: outsiders and enemies within. Finally, an attempt is made to examine the testimony of prominant strangers as they describe their marginal status and speculate on the ways that status has made them unusually perceptive observers of social phenomena.
Cost analysis of immediate postabortal IUD insertion compared to planned IUD insertion at the time of abortion follow up.

Abstract Background Immediate postabortal intrauterine device (IUD) insertion decreases rates of repeat abortions. However, only one third of high-volume, non-hospital abortion providers in the United States offer immediate postabortal IUD placement. Study Design We conducted a cost analysis from a public payer perspective to evaluate the potential cost savings associated with a policy of immediate postabortal IUD insertion, compared to planned IUD insertion at the time of abortion follow up. Sensitivity analyses and Monte Carlo simulation were performed. Results Considering only direct costs of contraception and pregnancy-related care over 1 year, immediate postabortal IUD provision decreases public program expenditures by US$111 per woman compared to planned IUD placement at follow up. Over 5 years, the savings increases to $4296 per woman, when public health and social program costs are also considered. Conclusion Immediate postabortal IUD insertion is cost saving from a public payer perspective, compared to planned insertion at the time of follow up. These savings are seen over a wide range of model inputs.
Science and religion: Think local

In the 19 September issue, M. McNutt's Editorial “The Pope tackles sustainability” (p. [1429][1]) and P. Dasgupta and V. Ramanathan's Policy Forum “Pursuit of the common good” (p. [1457][2]) highlighted the important role that religious communities and institutions can have in efforts to mitigate the impacts of anthropogenic climate change. On a global scale, Pope Francis can uniquely engage and orient the minds of many people to the problem of climate change, but a gulf still exists between the scientific and religious communities that cannot be bridged solely by macro-scale efforts. At smaller scales and within particular religious communities, a general distrust of the scientific community predisposes people to doubt the scientific evidence for anthropogenic climate change. This predisposition must be addressed in order for some people to support the individual and collective socioeconomic changes that are necessary for mitigation. Given that this predisposition likely transcends denominational and theological lines, a unique voice is needed that can simultaneously build trust in these diverse communities and inform about the details of climate change. I contend that scientists within religious communities are positioned to be this voice. Such scientists have existing relationships with non-scientists in their religious communities that are built on direct lines of communication and trust, making them well-suited for this task. Thankfully, there are already scientists who are leading this effort and providing a model for others to do the same ([ 1 ][3]). 1. [↵][4]1. K. Hayhoe, 2. A. Farley , A Climate for Change: Global Warming Facts for Faith-Based Decisions (FaithWords, New York, 2009). [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.1259742 [2]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.1259406 [3]: #ref-1 [4]: #xref-ref-1-1 "View reference 1 in text"
Adenocarcinoma of the Duodenum Arising in a Villous Adenoma

Duodenal villous adenomas are premalignant lesions. Prior to malignant transformation, their appearance on upper gastrointestinal examination is often characteristic. Following malignant change, the final diagnosis frequently requires tissue.
NORTH LA CROSSE UNDERGROUND FUEL OIL SPILL

ABSTRACT In July 1978, several homes near the Burlington Northern Railroad yards in North La Crosse reported fuel oil in their basements. High water tables and flooding along the La Crosse River caused seepage into the basements. The nearby railroad refueling depot was the only likely source of the product. A review of railroad activities indicated several likely sources for fuel oil leakage into the soil. A contractor was hired and a recovery system was installed. The recovery system removed about 300 gallons of fuel oil per day. Because of several operational problems, this recovery system was abandoned in November 1978 (after recovering about 20,000 gallons of fuel oil). A consultant's report issued in February 1979 indicated there remained about 157,000 gallons of fuel oil underground. Because recovery operations had ceased, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued an order to the Burlington Northern Railroad in May 1979 to resume recovery operations. This order was superceded by a second ...
A pH-dependent increase in neuronal glutamate efflux in vitro: possible involvement of ASCT1.

Abstract Efflux of glutamate from intracellular pools during hypoxia–ischemia has been postulated to be mediated by amino acid transporters and can lead to excitotoxicity. In addition, a decrease in pH seen during global hypoxia–ischemia may influence which transporter is responsible for this glutamate efflux. For example, the neutral amino acid transporter ASCT1 is an effective transporter of glutamate at low pH. We have examined the effects of pH, pH and temperature, and hypoxia on glutamate efflux in a rat primary neuronal cell culture model. We observed a marked increase of glutamate efflux as pH was decreased from 7.4 to 5.5. This pH-dependent efflux is likely due to a transporter-mediated process because it was seen in the presence of tetrodotoxin and was blunted by decreasing the temperature to either 35 °C or 33 °C. In addition, no increase in LDH was seen at pH 5.5 suggesting that increased glutamate levels were not due to cellular death. No change in glutamate levels was seen when the oxygen tension of the medium was lowered from 150 mm Hg to either 30 or 15 mm Hg. Given that EAAT transporters are inhibited by low pH, other transporters, such as ASCT1, may be responsible for this pH-dependent efflux of glutamate.
Solid state 2H-NMR as a method for determining the orientation of cannabinoid analogs in membranes.

Abstract In order to investigate the correlation between the pharmacological activities of cannabinoids and the geometric features of their interactions with membranes, we have calculated the molecular orientations of five analogs in model membrane bilayers. The studies involved the stereospecific 2H-labeling of each analog in different positions and the use of solid state 2H-NMR. The cannabinoids included in our study are (−)-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), (−)-Δ8-THC and its methylated ether analog (−)-O-methyl-Δ8-THC, as well as two hexahydrocannabinols (HHC) having an additional hydroxyl in the 11-position, (−)-11-OH-9α-HHC and (−)-11-OH-9β-HHC. A new algorithm is used to circumvent the problem of deuterium quadrupolar splitting signs. The method has general applicability for calculating the orientation of a molecule in a anisotropic environment. Our calculations show that the biological inactive O-methyl-Δ8-THC orients with its long axis parallel to the lipid acyl chains, whereas the psychoactive cannabinoids assume “awkward” orientations in which the hydroxyl groups are pointing towards the bilayer interface, presumably to maximize the amphipathic interaction with the membrane. To produce their biological effects, cannabinoids may need to acquire an appropriate location and orientation in the membrane bilayer so that, through lateral diffusion, they can reach their sites of action and interact productively with these sites.
Carcinogenic heavy metals replace Ca2+ for DNA binding and annealing activities of mono-ubiquitinated annexin A1 homodimer.

Abstract Mono-ubiquitinated annexin A1 was purified from rat liver nuclei. The homodimer form of mono-ubiquitinated annexin A1 was able to unwind dsDNA in a Mg 2+ - and ATP-dependent manner, and to anneal ssDNA in a Ca 2+ -dependent manner. Phospholipids decreased the concentration of Ca 2+ required for maximal annealing activity. Heavy metals such as As 3+ , Cr 6+ , Pb 2+ and Cd 2+ substituted for Ca 2+ in the ssDNA binding and annealing activities of annexin A1. While these metals inhibited the unwinding of dsDNA by nuclear annexin A1 in the presence of Mg 2+ and ATP, they enhanced dsDNA-dependent ATPase activity of annexin A1. Heavy metals may have produced dsDNA, a substrate for the DNA unwinding reaction, via the DNA annealing reaction. DNA synthesomes were isolated from L5178Y tk (+/−) mouse lymphoma cells in exponential growth, and were found to contain helicase activities. The As 3+ - or Cr 6+ -induced increases in ssDNA binding activity of DNA synthesomes were reduced by a mono-specific anti-annexin A1 antibody, but not by anti-Ig antibody. Anti-annexin A1 antibody also blocked the inhibitory and stimulatory effects of As 3+ or Cr 6+ towards DNA unwinding and annealing activities of DNA synthesomes. Based on these observations, it can be concluded that the effects of heavy metals on DNA annealing and unwinding activities are mediated, at least in substantial part, through actions of the mono-ubiquitinated annexin A1 homodimer.
Identification and characterization of Salmonella serotypes using DNA spectral characteristics by fourier transform infrared

Analysis of DNA samples of Salmonella serotypes were performed using FT-IR spectrometer by placing directly in contact with a diamond attenuated total reflection (ATR) crystal. Spectra were recorded from 4000 cm-1 to 525 cm-1 wavenumber with the resolution of 4 cm-1 and data spacing of 1.928 cm-1. Collected spectra were subtracted from the background spectra of empty diamond crystal surface. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was conducted at four different spectral regions to differentiate the different serotypes of Salmonella on the basis of difference in their spectral features of DNA structure macromolecules. PCA was used to show the natural clusters in the data set and to describe the difference between the sample clusters. At the region 1800 - 1200 cm-1, PC1 distinguished 93 % and PC2 distinguished 7 % of the serotypes. Therefore, maximum classification of 100 % in total was obtained at this region. For all the Salmonella serotypes, the frequency between 1000-1150 cm-1 and 1170 -1280 cm-1 had higher loading values which showed their significant contribution in the serotype classification.© (2012) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Age-related decline in rat striatal dopamine metabolism is regionally homogeneous

Abstract Previous research has established that the age-related decrease in rat striatal D2 sites occurs predominantly in the posterior ventral caudate-putamen, and the present work was undertaken to determine whether a corresponding preferential reduction in dopamine, its metabolites, or its synthesis rate occurs in this region. Male F344 rats 4–8 or 25–27 months old were used for regional HPLC electrochemical determinations of 1) dopamine, homovanillic acid (HVA), or dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) obtained from striatal micropunch samples, or 2) 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) concentrations in these same micropunch regions 30 minutes after treatment with the aromatic amino decarboxylase inhibitor, NSD-1015 (100 mg/kg, IP). Aged rats had significantly less dopamine, HVA, and DOPAC in their striatal samples than did young adult controls, as well as having less DOPA accumulation after NSD-1015. However, for none of these measures was the age × region interaction significant, suggesting that the decline in these markers of presynaptic dopaminergic function occurs uniformly throughout the striatum. The results provide evidence that the effects of aging on striatal dopamine receptors are dissociable from the influences on the dopaminergic innervation of this structure, suggesting independent control of pre- and postsynaptic elements of these synapses during the lifespan.
An Intelligent Robotic System Platform for Autonomous Mapping and Sensor Data Gathering of Non-GPS Friendly Environments

This paper presents results of a novel intelligent robotic system using a re-configurable platform for autonomous mapping and sensor data gathering of non-Global Positioning System (GPS) friendly, unknown and hazardous enclosed environments such as caves, underground and underwater tunnel networks, building floors, and spaces within a collapsed building rubble field. The work developed here forms a basis for a swarm of mini/micro robotic vehicles capable of autonomous routing and control with a self-contained navigation system that does not rely on GPS information. A robotic prototype capable of autonomously mapping a floor plan (such as hallways within a building) has been developed. The robot navigates autonomously without the use of GPS and gathers absolute position information developing a 2-dimensional map of the hallway network using a novel Mini Inertial Measurement/Navigation System (MIMNS) developed at RIT. Also, enhancements to the MIMNS unit are presented for estimating attitude orientation of the robot using an accelerometer based device allowing for non-flat plane mapping using the MIMNS unit. The paper presents the concepts of the robot hardware and software, results of a 2-dimensional mapping of a flat plane, and introduces simulation results of an accelerometer based attitude orientation device.Copyright © 2005 by ASME