cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cuba at the crossroads: the role of the U.S. hospitality industry in Cuban tourism initiatives.

The U.S. embargo has clearly been costly to the Cuban people, in terms of their health and well-being. Based upon the first author's firsthand, informal personal interactions with the Cuban people, including Cuban president Fidel Castro, as well as the authors' recent qualitative research in Cuba, this article contends that these past decades have fostered a deep degree of distrust between our two peoples. Despite this distrust, U.S. dollars are desired in the Cuban economy. As background, this case offers an historical chronology of Cuban tourism, including the “Special Period” following the demise of the Soviet Union. Current insight is offered into the nature and depth of distrust of the United States, based on interviews with Cuban hospitality managers. Recommendations are then offered for mitigating this problem including a call for in-depth, multifaceted basic and applied cross-cultural research to support intelligent cultural “bridge building” and joint ventures.
Embryonic temperature adaptations of the Pacific treefrog, Hyla regilla.

Abstract 1. 1. The embryonic temperature adaptations of the Pacific treefrog, Hyla regilla , from southern California and western Washington are described. Each population represents a different subspecies, and both belong to the “thermal group” of H. regilla . 2. 2. In western Washington the water temperatures of breeding pools during embryonic development may range from 0·5 to 20°C, and embryonic development requires about 3 weeks. 3. 3. The embryonic temperature tolerance of Washington embryos is 6–28°C and California embryos, 6–29·6°C. 4. 4. The developmental rate-temperature curves cross with Washington embryos faster at low temperatures and California embryos faster at high temperatures. 5. 5. Development of California embryos at high temperatures (29–31·5°C) shows inhibition of developmental rate and much variation in tolerance. There may be selection for increased heat resistance in this population. 6. 6. Compared to many cold and warm adapted frogs of North America, H. regilla seems generalized in its embryonic temperature adaptations. It is a eurytopic treefrog, one found in a wide variety of habitats that are thermally diverse.
Representation theory and the A-polynomial of a knot

Abstract This paper surveys various aspects of the two variable polynomial of knots defined by consideration of the representations of the fundamental group of the complement into SL(2,ℂ).
Role of Adverse Weather in Key Crash Types on Limited-Access: Roadways Implications for Advanced Weather Systems

Adverse weather can reduce visibility and road surface friction and thus increase crash frequency and injury severity. However, drivers may compensate for higher crash risk by reducing speeds, maintaining safe spacing, and driving more carefully. The impacts of adverse weather and its interactions with driver and roadway characteristics on the occurrence and injury severity of selected crash types are analyzed. Single-vehicle, two-vehicle sideswipe, and two-vehicle rear-end collisions on limited-access roadways are considered. To analyze differential impacts of adverse weather on crash type, binary probit models are estimated for single-vehicle versus the two types of two-vehicle crashes, and for rear-ends versus sideswipes. To analyze injury severity, ordered probit models are estimated. The 1990-1995 Highway Safety Information System (HSIS) database for North Carolina was used for analysis. The results indicate that, for the selected crash types, drivers appear to compensate for increased injury risks i...
Characterization of cDNA clones encoding two putative isoforms of the α1 subunit of the dihydropyridine-sensitive voltage-dependent calcium channel isolated from rat brain and rat aorta

cDNA clones encoding rat brain and rat aorta isoforms of the α1 subunit of the dihydropyridine-sensitive, voltage-dependent calcium channel were isolated and sequenced. These tissue-specific cDNA clones share significant amino acid similarity with the rabbit skeletal muscle calcium channel α1 subunit (75% and 66% amino acid identity for rat brain and rat aorta isoforms, respectively). Northern analysis revealed transcript sizes of 6.5 and 8.6 kb in aorta and 8.6 kb in brain.
Modeling conception as an aggregated Bernoulli outcome with latent variables via the EM algorithm.

We describe a general method for analyzing aggregated Bernoulli outcomes. The research is motivated by an epidemiological reproductive study where the outcome was whether pregnancy was detected in a woman's particular menstrual cycle and the Bernoulli "trials" corresponded to days with intercourse during the cycle. Each cycle is either "viable" or not, i.e., is or is not susceptible to conception. We develop an EM algorithm approach to maximizing the observed-data pseudo-likelihood, based on a set of unobservable latent outcomes linked to the specific days with intercourse. This method is flexible in that it allows one to model effect of covariates on the susceptibility factor and on the latent outcomes. Application of the method to fertility studies enables one to investigate covariates with a long-term or transient effect on the daily conception probability. A complication is that most couples contribute more than one cycle in a prospective study. A generalized estimating equation approach adjusts for the dependency among outcomes within individual couples. The method can be applied in any setting where dependency among Bernoulli trials is induced by a susceptibility factor and the trial outcomes are only observable in the aggregate.
Atomistic-mesoscale interfacial resistance based thermal analysis of carbon nanotube systems

This paper estimates the effect of chemical additives like CuO on the interfacial thermal resistance of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded in water. The investigation of thermal properties of CNT nanostructure is carried out using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The nanotube was heated to a prescribed temperature, followed by the relaxation of the entire configuration. In the equilibration simulations, the atoms in the nanotube are heated instantaneously to 500, 750 and 1000 K in 3 separate simulations by rescaling the velocities of carbon atoms in the nanotube. This paper also deals with the mesoscale thermo-conductivity properties of the composite system, by employing various effective medium theories and micromechanical methods.
Lateral pancreaticojejunostomy for chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive fibrosis of the pancreas that leads to loss of endocrine and exocrine function. The most common symptom in this disease is intractable pain. The etiology of pain in chronic pancreatitis is not clearly understood. However, many of these patients have dilated ducts consisting of saccular dilations and intervening constructions referred to as the "chain of lakes" phenomenon. These patients can be diagnosed with either endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or computed tomography (CT). These patients are best treated by the Partington Rochelle modification of the Puestow Procedure otherwise known as lateral pancreaticojejunostomy. Overall pain relief in published studies occurs in 50-90% of patients. Another proposed advantage of the lateral pancreaticojejunostomy is preservation of endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function as long as the pancreas is not further damaged by alcohol.
Inhibition of HIV Type 1 Infection with a RANTES-IgG3 Fusion Protein

The natural ligands for the chemokine receptors CCR5 (RANTES, MIP-1alpha, and MIP-1beta) and CXCR4 (SDF-1) can act as potent inhibitors of infection by the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) at the level of viral entry. Unlike antibody-mediated inhibition, chemokine-mediated inhibition is broadly effective. Different HIV-1 strains can utilize the same coreceptor(s) for viral entry and, therefore, can be blocked by the same chemokine(s). HIV-1 strains that are highly resistant to neutralization by V3-specific antibodies are sensitive to inhibition by chemokines. Therefore, the use of chemokine-derived molecules constitutes a potential therapeutic approach to prevent infection by HIV-1. We have generated a fusion protein between RANTES and human IgG3 (RANTES-IgG3). The effectiveness of RANTES-IgG3 inhibition of infection by HIV-1 was similar to that of rRANTES. Inhibition of HIV-1 by RANTES-IgG3 was specific for CCR5-dependent but not CXCR4-dependent HIV-1 isolates. Fusion of a chemokine to an IgG moiety offers two desirable properties with respect to the recombinant chemokine alone. First, IgG fusion proteins have extended half-lives in vivo. Second, molecules with IgG heavy chain moieties may be able to cross the placenta and potentially induce fetal protection.
Sister Elizabeth Kenny, an Australian Nurse, and Treatment of Poliomyelitis Victims

Purpose: To analyze the strategies that Elizabeth Kenny, an Australian nurse, used when trying to obtain medical endorsement for an innovation that was not based on knowledge of pathology, but was empirically demonstrated. Significance: When faced with the need to “Do the best you can with the symptoms presenting themselves,” Kenny used keen observation to develop a new treatment for poliomyelitis in the early 1900s. Her innovation was to use hot packs to relieve muscle spasms in people with early symptoms of poliomyelitis when orthodox medical treatment included use of splints or casts to immobilize affected limbs. Method: Historical case analysis. Findings and Conclusions: Sister Kenny made bold assertions, obtained scientific validation, learned from experience, used publicity, and opposed resistance. Although some strategies were unsuccessful (and Kenny faced many obstacles) medical practice changed in a relatively short time. Immobilization of limbs was largely discontinued in the acute stage of the disease. Kenny persisted in caring for children who otherwise might have sustained deformities.
Geology and uranium-thorium mineral deposits of the Bokan Mountain Granite Complex, southeastern Alaska

Abstract The Bokan Mountain (Kendrick Bay) uranium-thorium deposits are associated with a Late Jurassic peralkaline granite ring-dike complex. The uranium-thorium deposits form pipe-like bodies along contacts, or occur as pods in en echelon northwest-striking shear zones. The host intrusive is a multiphased body consisting mainly of riebeckite granite porphyry and subordinately of pegmatite-aplite, aegirine granite porphyry, and eight other lesser rock types; the ore is closely associated with an albitized aegirine syenite. The ore consists of thorium and rare earth-rich rock containing uranothorite, uraninite, and generally less than 2% of sulfide species. About 100,000 tons (89,000 t) of ore have been mined at an average grade of about 1% U3O8 and nearly 3% ThO2, mainly from the Ross-Adams pipe. The pipe itself lies along the contact of aegirine syenite and aegirine granite porphyry; it is as much as 24 m across and was mined along strike for over 300 m. The ore in shear zones occurs in lenses as much as 3 m thick and 30 m in strike length. Wallrock alteration within and adjacent to orebodies consists of pervasive hydrothermal albite and lesser amounts of chlorite, fluorite, calcite, quartz, sericite, and tourmaline. Hematite is present in the outer-distal parts of the ore zones. The minerals produced to date occur within the outer annular zone of the Bokan Granite Complex in which aegirine is present as the major alkali ferro-magnesian mineral. Ore emplacement occurred during the first subsidence event in association with devolatilization of the magma chamber. The pod-like ore zones appear to have formed during regional faulting synchronous with magma crystallization and subsequent hydrothermal events. Subsequent magma crystallization yielded riebeckite granites that were depleted in U and Th. Filling temperatures in ore stage fluid inclusions within quartz range from 320 to 331°C with pressure corrections increasing the temperature of formation to 420°C or higher, depending on dissolved gas content. Sulfur isotopic analyses on pyrite, galena, sphalerite and pyrrhotite indicate disequilibrium, but δ34SH2S is estimated at 7.6‰. Carbon and oxygen isotopic analyses on ore stage calcite yield δ18OH2O of 6.8 to 8.1‰ and δ13CΣC of −4.3 to −7.0‰. The oxygen and carbon isotopic data support a magmatic origin for the calcite and associated thorium-uranium deposits.
A limited expansion method for electron repulsion integrals

Abstract Two center exchange and three center integrals required for MO calculations can be calculated very rapidly using a limited linear expansion of two center charge distributions including, for integrals involving second row atoms, only atomic orbitals up to n = 2. Results for the total energy and the dipole moment for BH, NH, FH, N 2 , C 2 , F 2 , CO, BF and H 2 O are shown to be very close to the values obtained from accurate calculations using the same basis set.
Optical coherent transients induced by time-delayed fluctuating pulses: Three-pulse transients

A theoretical analysis of the optical coherent transients that arise when a sample of two-level atoms is irradiated by a sequence of three broad-bandwidth pulses is presented. The first two pulses have a relative delay time of order of the correlation time of the pulse fluctuations and are sent into an atomic vapor from different directions. These pulses, whose temporal width is much greater than the delay time, can be correlated with one another and can be strong enough to saturate the two-level atomic transition. The third pulse is weak, noncorrelated with the first two, and is delayed in time so that it does not overlap them. We present a detailed examination of the transient signal that is produced when the third pulse is scattered by the spatial gratings in the population difference of atoms created by the first two pulses. Taking into account the effects of inhomogeneous and homogeneous broadening, we calculate the intensity of the transient signal, emitted in different directions, as a function of delay time. The signal is found to depend dramatically on the intensities of the excitation pulses. It is shown that, for strong excitation pulses, there is a direct dependence of the signal on the cross-correlation time of pulses ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{\mathit{c}}^{12}$ that does not exist when the pulses are weak. In particular, the strongest signals exhibit a peak of width of order ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{\mathit{c}}^{12}$. This peak can have a very narrow dip near its maximum whose width is much smaller than ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{\mathit{c}}^{12}$, if the pulses are fully correlated. We develop a representation of the time evolution of the Bloch vector of a two-level atom, driven by time-delayed pulses, that enables us to explain our results. In this representation, the two time-delayed pulses are replaced by two fully overlapping pulses having some effective amplitudes and atomic field detunings.
Aging Fibroblasts Present Reduced Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Responsiveness Due to Preferential Loss of EGF Receptors

Wound healing is compromised in aging adults in part due to decreased responsiveness of fibroblasts to extracellular signals. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are not known. Aged dermal fibroblasts with reduced remaining replicative capacities demonstrated decreased epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced cell migrative and cell proliferative capacities, as reported previously. Thus, as cells approach senescence, programmed in vivo or in vitro, EGF responsiveness is preferentially lost. To define the rate-limiting signaling event, we found that the activity of two different EGF receptor (EGFR)-signaling pathways to cell migration (phospholipase-C gamma) and/or mitogenesis (extracellular signal/regulated-mitogen-activated kinases) were decreased in near senescent cells despite unchanged levels of effector molecules. Aged cells presented decreased levels of EGFR, although insulin receptor and transferrin receptor levels were relatively unchanged. EGFR mRNA levels and production of new transcripts decreased during aging, suggesting that this preferential loss of EGFR was due to diminished production, which more than counteracts the reduced ligand-induced receptor loss. Since these data suggested that the decrement in EGF was rate-limiting, higher levels of EGFR were established in near senescent cells by electroporation of EGFR cDNA. These cells presented higher levels of EGFR and recovered their EGF-induced migration and proliferation responsiveness. Thus, the defect in EGF responsiveness of aged dermal fibroblasts is secondary to reduced EGFR message transcription. Our experimental model suggests that EGFR gene delivery might be an effective future therapy for compromised wound healing.
How Should a Firm Manage Deteriorating Inventory

Firms selling goods whose quality level deteriorates over time often face difficult decisions when unsold inventory remains. Since the leftover product is often perceived to be of lower quality than the new product, carrying it over offers the firm a second selling opportunity, a product line extension to new and unsold units, and the ability to price discriminate. By doing so, however, the firm subjects sales of its new product to competition from the leftover product. We present a two period model that captures the effect of this competition on the firm's production and pricing decisions. We characterize the firm's optimal strategy and find conditions under which the firm is better off carrying all, some, or none of its leftover inventory. We also show that, compared to a firm that acts myopically in the first period, a firm that takes into account the effect of first period decisions on second period profits will price its new product higher and stock more of it in the first period. Thus, the benefit of having a second selling opportunity dominates the detrimental effect of cannibalizing sales of the second period new product.
Crystal structures of (η5-C5H4COMe)M(CO)3Me (M=Mo, W)

The crystal structures of (η5-C5H4COMe)M(CO)3Me (M=Mo,W) have been determined. They are not isostructural. M=Mo isP21/c,a=10.205(6),b=14.192(8),c=8.135(6) A,β=93.43(4)° andD(calc)=1.71 g cm−3 forZ=4. M=WisP21/c,a=12.580(7),b=6.830(5),c=13.750(7) A,β=93.72(4)° andD(calc)=2.20 g cm−3 forZ=4. Both have a four-legged piano stool geometry with the substituted carbon making the closest M-C(η5) approach. The methyl group in the M=W derivative is disordered between twotrans-ligand positions. The average bonding parameters for the more accurately determined Mo analog are: Mo-C(η)5)=2.34(3) A, Mo-CO=1.98(2) A, Mo-Me=2.304(4) A.
Excitation-contraction coupling alterations in mdx and utrophin/dystrophin double knockout mice: a comparative study

The double knockout mouse for utrophin and dystrophin (utr−/−/mdx) has been proposed to be a better model of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) than the mdx mouse because the former displays more si...
Pediatric trauma nurse practitioners provide excellent care with superior patient satisfaction for injured children.

Purpose: Work hour restrictions for house staff have forced a reevaluation of the traditional roles of all health care providers. In 2001, our level I pediatric trauma center augmented the role of our trauma pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) to include in-patient management. We hypothesized that a PNP can provide injured children a level of care commensurate with a resident (RES). Methods: All children between 2 months and 17 years old admitted to the Trauma Service were considered for the study. Patients were randomized to PNP or RES care groups. Types of injuries, injury severity score, missed injuries, readmissions, hospital length of stay (LOS), and cost were recorded. Satisfaction surveys were administered to all families. Results: A total of 76 children were enrolled. During the study period, there were no missed injuries or readmissions. The PNP group had a significantly shorter LOS and received significantly higher satisfaction survey scores with regard to information on injuries, tests and treatment, and frequency of visits provided to the patient/family. Conclusions: PNPs provide equivalent care for injured children with significantly shorter LOS and higher patient satisfaction than RESs. In-patient trauma nurse practitioners provide added value to the care of the injured child in the era of reduced RES work hours.
Discrimination Among the B. Cereus Group, in Comparison to B. Subtilis, by Structural Carbohydrate Profiles and Ribosomal RNA Spacer Region PCR

Summary The B. cereus group (B. anthracis, B. thuringiensis and B. cereus) and B. subtilis were physiologically, molecularly and chemically characterized. Within the B. cereus group, strains grew anaerobically and were not lysozyme susceptible. B. anthracis strains were non-hemolytic unlike B. cereus or B. thuringiensis. Only B. thuringiensis produced parasporal bodies. The 16S / 23S rRNA spacer region was amplified giving 3 major products. The PCR products found in strains of B. subtilis were approximately 270, 400, and 430 nucleotides, with the corresponding bands in the B. cereus group at 250, 430, and 480. These patterns allowed B. subtilis to be differentiated from the other 3 species. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, sugar profiles of vegetative cells were indistinguishable for B. cereus and B. thuringiensis. B. anthracis contained high levels of galactose which generally distinguished it from B. cereus/B. thuringiensis, while B. subtilis was distinguished from the B. cereus group by low mannosamine levels. Spore profiles differed from vegetative profiles in all 4 species. Like vegetative profiles, spore profiles were distinctive for B. cereus/B. thuringiensis, B. anthracis, and B. subtilis. B. cereus and B. thuringiensis spores both contained rhamnose, fucose, 2-O-methyl rhamnose and 3-O-methyl rhamnose, unlike B. anthracis spores which contained only rhamnose and 3-O-methyl rhamnose. B. subtilis strains were heterogeneous with some resembling B. anthracis and others B. cereus/B. thuringiensis, although B. subtilis strains typically contained quinovose. The B. cereus group can be easily distinguished from B. subtilis, however, differentiation within this group has always been problematic. Using carbohydrate profiling, B. anthracis is readily distinguished from B. cereus(B. thuringiensis. Additionally, changes in carbohydrate composition between vegetative cells and spores occurs in the B. cereus group and B. subtilis.
Trends in serum lipids and hypertension prevalence among non-pregnant reproductive-age women: United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2008.

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death among reproductive-age women. In this study, we examine trends in the prevalence of dyslipidemia, hypertension, and related clinicians’ advice among reproductive-age women. We conducted trend analysis of these factors among non-pregnant women aged 20–49 years (n = 5,768) using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data obtained between 1999 and 2008. Multiple linear regression and logistic regression analyses were used to examine linear trends over a 10-year period after adjusting for covariates. A downward trend was observed for the proportion of women with abnormal levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL; P = 0.038) and high density lipoprotein (HDL; P = 0.008) cholesterol from 1999 to 2008. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the prevalence of abnormal total cholesterol (P = 0.948) and triglyceride levels (P = 0.300), or hypertension (P = 0.632). Based on the self-reported data, upward trends were observed in the rates of cholesterol checking (P = 0.002), high cholesterol (P = 0.012), receiving clinicians’ advice to use lipid-lowering agents (P < 0.001) and patients’ compliance with their advice (P < 0.001). Although rates of self-reported hypertension did not change over time (P = 0.120), receiving clinicians’ advice to use antihypertensive medications (P = 0.003) and patients’ compliance with these medications (P = 0.015) also increased significantly. Overall improvements in LDL and HDL cholesterol over this time period could be due to increases in related awareness, receiving advice to use medications, and patients’ compliance with this advice. Use of antihypertensive medication has also increased among reproductive-age women in the US.
Attempts to implicate viruses in myasthenia gravis

We investigated the hypothesis that a persistent viral infection of the thymus gland might trigger the autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis (MG). Thymus glands of nine patients with recent onset of MG were studied by a variety of techniques to detect the presence of occult viruses. No evidence of viral infection was found.
Capital income taxation and perfect foresight

Abstract This paper develops a perfect foresight model of capital income taxation in a representative household neoclassical one-sector framework. The household sector is based on intertemporal utility maximization. The main result is the equivalence of a perfect foresight solution and an artificial central planning solution; if there is no tax, this is the equivalence of a market equilibrium and social optinum. The equivalence result is used to deduce the implications of a partial tax reform policy. It is shown that a partial reform increases capital at each time following the initial period of the program.
Statistical properties of unsteady gas-solid suspensions with strong particle-particle interactions in horizontal pipe flows

Abstract Unsteady stratified motions in gas-solid suspensions with strong particle-particle interactions at low velocities were observed, but the means for pred
Interstitial ascorbate in turtle brain is modulated by release and extracellular volume change.

The isolated turtle cerebellum was used as a model system to study effects of depolarizing conditions on interstitial ascorbic acid concentration. The depolarizing stimulus was Leao's spreading depression, which is characterized by transient negative extracellular potentials, high potassium levels (20-60 mM), and local depression of neuronal activity. Interstitial concentrations of ascorbate (200-400 microM) and other electroactive species were monitored voltammetrically, using graphite fiber microelectrodes. Total tissue ascorbate (1,810 nmol/g tissue wet weight) was similar to mammalian levels and was several orders of magnitude higher than catecholamine and indoleamine content. During spreading depression, a large (up to 200 microM) increase in concentration of interstitial electroactive species was monitored. Use of Nafion- and ascorbate oxidase-coated electrodes and uricase confirmed that ascorbate was the only substance detected. Simultaneous monitoring of ascorbate, extracellular potential, and extracellular volume (using tetramethylammonium and ion-selective microelectrodes) indicated that (a) the ascorbate increase began with the decrease in extracellular volume during spreading depression, and (b) much of the increase was the result of extracellular volume decrease. In sucrose-substituted medium, in which volume changes are eliminated, a 50 microM increase in interstitial ascorbate, caused by release from intracellular stores, was also seen. The ascorbate concentration increase was prolonged in sucrose medium, suggesting that an uptake process involving sodium may further regulate interstitial ascorbate concentration.
Radio control of ventricular contraction in experimental heart block.

This report describes a method for the stimulation of the ventricular myocardium by transmitting the stimulus over a radio-frequency carrier which is demodulated by a radio receiver enclosed within the animal9s chest. The method can be applied in conjunction with experimental heart block.
Beta-lactamase induction and cell wall metabolism in Gram-negative bacteria

Production of beta-lactamases, the enzymes that degrade beta-lactam antibiotics, is the most widespread and threatening mechanism of antibiotic resistance. In the past, extensive research has focused on the structure, function, and ecology of beta-lactamases while limited efforts were placed on the regulatory mechanisms of beta-lactamases. Recently, increasing evidence demonstrate a direct link between beta-lactamase induction and cell wall metabolism in Gram-negative bacteria. Specifically, expression of beta-lactamase could be induced by the liberated murein fragments, such as muropeptides. This article summarizes current knowledge on cell wall metabolism, beta-lactam, and beta lactamases. In particular, we comprehensively reviewed recent studies on the beta-lactamase induction by muropeptides via two major molecular mechanisms (the AmpG-AmpR-AmpC pathway and BlrAB-like two-component regulatory system) in Gram-negative bacteria. The signaling pathways for beta-lactamase induction offer a broad array of promising targets for the discovery of new antibacterial drugs used for combination therapies. Therefore, to develop effective mitigation strategies against the widespread beta-lactam resistance, examination of the molecular basis of beta-lactamase induction by cell wall fragment is highly warranted.
Insecticidal toxins from the bacterium Photorhabdus luminescens: gene cloning and toxin histopathology†

Four toxin complexes, Tca, Tcb, Tcc and Tcd from the culture broth of Photorhabdus luminescens have been purified and the four toxin complex encoding loci, tca, tcb, tcc and tcd, cloned. Genetic knockout of either tca or tcd reduced oral toxicity to Manduca sexta, and knockout of both loci eliminated activity. Purified Tca specifically affected the insect midgut, despite its putative normal delivery directly into the insect haemocel. These Photorhabdus toxins may form useful alternatives to other orally active bacterial protein toxins such as those from Bacillus thuringiensis.
Radioimmunoassay of hydromorphone and hydrocodone in human plasma

A radioimmunoassay for hydromorphone in human plasma was developed using a commercially available morphine-6-antiserum and tritiated dihydromorphine. In the assay, free and bound drug are separated using dextran-coated charcoal. The method quantitates hydromorphone in the 2.5–20-ng/ml range with minimum sensitivity at 1.0 ng/ml. Within-run precision for hydromorphone as shown by the standard error of the estimate of the linear regression equation is ±1.01 ng/ml. Between-run precision data for hydromorphone at the 2.5-, 10-, and 20-ng/ml levels gave percent relative standard deviations of 22.35, 10.96, and 8.55%, respectively. A plasma concentration–time curve from a subject administered a single oral dose of hydromorphone demonstrates the usefulness of the assay in monitoring drug levels in a bioavailability study. The method also is applicable to the analysis of hydrocodone in human plasma in the 10–80-ng/ml range with minimum sensitivity at 3.0 ng/ml. Within-run precision for hydrocodone as shown by the standard error of the estimate of the linear regression equation is ±1.06 ng/ml. Between-run precision data at the 15-, 30-, and 60-ng/ml levels gave percent relative standard deviations of 12.48, 7.67, and 6.03%, respectively.
A model of instructional communication as a framework for analyzing and interpreting student ratings of instruction

This study applied the Instructional Communication Model (Richmond & Gorham, 1992) to an analysis of student ratings of instruction (SRIs). Based on the model and the available SRI instrument, analyses focused on the relationship between the teacher and content components of the model, reflected respectively by instructor effectiveness and course quality SRI items. Data were drawn from actual application of SRIs in a Department of Communication Studies. Inter‐item correlations showed global ratings in each factor were best predicted by specific rating items in the same factor. There was a slight tendency for some specific items in the instructor effectiveness set to be as well associated with global course ratings as were some of the specific course quality items. Multiple correlations revealed that the best combined set of items for estimating global instructor effectiveness contained global course quality as the primary contributor. Findings are discussed in terms of the model of instructional communica...
Fiber optic transmission line for the distribution of time and frequency reference signals

We report the performance of a low-cost fiber-optic link used for distributing high-quality reference frequencies to several satellite ground stations. We demonstrate that the phase-noise performance of the fiber-optic link is adequate for supplying an S-band telemetry receiver with a 5 MHz reference signal.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Integration and autonomy in axons

A new study shows that even under normal conditions repetitive spiking in some cortical interneurons can trigger spontaneous spiking that originates from distal axons and lasts for tens of seconds.
Biodegradation of ldpe/cellulose blends by common fungi

We have developed a cellulose-polyethylene blend polymer film for degradative susceptibility to brown rot or cellulasic fungi. Paxon low-density polyethylene (LDPE) polymer pellets were melt-blended with 8855 cellulose. A pure polyethylene sample was melted, pressed and used as the control. Naturally occurring fungi were harvested from decaying wood and cultured on full nutrient agar until individual phenotypes developed. The discrete fungal colonies were isolated and transferred to bacteriological agar with carboxymethylcellulose as the only carbon source. Surviving fungi were subjected to an indirect cellulase assay to confirm cellulolytic properties. Trichoderma viride showed 100% surface area growth on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) blended with 8% (w/w) cellulose in 90 days. Growth coverage by Gliomastix on LDPE blended with 8% cellulose reached 100 % in 150 days, and up to 72% growth activity on blends with 1.5% cellulose, 1% cellulose, and the control LDPE.
The effect of a single dose of reserpine administered prior to incubation on the development of tyrosine hydroxylase activity in chick sympathetic ganglia.

A single dose of reserpine administered into the yolk sac of chicken eggs prior to incubation produces two distinct periods of significant increase in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity over controls. The first period is 21 days of incubation (55%) and the second is between day 14 and 30 after hatching (a.h.) (69%). Cholineacetyltransferase (ChAc) and dopadecarboxylase (DDC) are not modified in the two periods of increased TH activity. Reserpine had no effect on cholinergic parasympathetic synapses and neurons in the ciliary ganglion, as judged by ChAc activity. When reserpine was acutely administered in three different posthatching periods only the injection at the latest period (days 26 and 27) caused a significant (38%) increase in TH activity at day 30. Postsynaptic nicotinic receptors were blocked selectively by injecting chlorisondamine in the chick starting at hatching for one week. The administration of chlorisondamine almost completely abolished the reserpine induced increase of TH activity at day 15 a.h. The present results support the view that the development of enzyme activities specifically related to neurotransmitter biosynthesis in chick autonomic ganglia is regulated not only by transsynaptic influences but also by regulatory inputs originating in the periphery.
Binding of spin-labeled local anesthetics to phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine liposomes.

Abstract A homologous series of spin-labeled local anesthetics, 2-[ N -methyl N -(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinooxyl)] ethyl- p -alkoxybenzoates were shown to bind to phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine liposomes. Under similar conditions, 70% of the ethoxy homolog (R2C) of these spin-labeled local anesthetics bound to synthetic dipalmitoyl lecithin while 98% bound to phosphatidylserine liposomes. Five percent of R2C's bound signal could be released by 4 m m calcium from phosphatidylserine liposomes, but calcium had no effect on R2C bound to synthetic lecithin. The butoxy (R4C) and hexyloxy (R6C) homologs bound to phosphatidylcholine in the order R6C > R4C. All of R6C and all of R4C were bound to phosphatidylserine liposomes, while only 90% of R6C bound to synthetic dipalmitoyl lecithin. Calcium was incapable of displacing bound R4C or R6C from either phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylserine liposomes. The results are discussed in light of anesthetic binding by electrostatic and Van der Waal's forces to phospholipids.
Engagement in Cultural Trigger Events in the Development of Cultural Competence

The dual forces of work that increasingly spans international boundaries and a rapidly diversifying domestic workforce require workers to develop skills to successfully negotiate the nuances and co...
Memory-Altering Drugs: Shifting the Paradigm of Informed Consent

This article argues that patients should be informed of the social effects of taking memory-altering drugs before these drugs are administered. The drug propranolol has been found by some researchers to be effective in reducing the intensity and clarity of memories associated with a traumatic event, thereby reducing the symptoms associated with post traumatic stress disorder. Unfortunately, for the drug to be effective, it must be taken within six hours of the traumatic event, which may cause some memories with societal importance to be lost. In particular, memories are essential to the effective administration of justice and may help prevent or ameliorate the effects of future horrific events. For example, lost memories may hinder an investigation, make a person less persuasive as a witness at trial, or affect an individual’s ability to advocate for social change. Current informed consent laws require only that the physician consider the patient’s medical condition when deciding what to disclose. These laws should also require that a patient who is given a memory-altering drug be informed of the potential societal implications of taking the drug.
Minimized response time of optical emission and mass spectrometric signals for optimized endpoint detection

The response times of optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and mass spectrometry (MS) have been measured for plasma etching of III–V heterostructures. For the Ga optical emission signal at 417.2 nm, a response time as fast as 0.2 s was obtained. The minimum response time of the 145AsCl+2 partial pressure, measured by MS, was found to be 0.9 s. The saturation times of the optical emission signal and the partial pressure signal have been shown to be related to the residence time of etch gases by varying the total gas flow rate and the chamber pressure. Decreasing residence time by reducing the pressure from 6 to 2 mTorr and maintaining a constant flow rate caused the saturation time of the Ga emission signal at 417.2 nm to decrease from 7 to 3 min. The 145AsCl+2 partial pressure signal saturated before the Ga emission signal. Endpoint detection for etching an AlInAs emitter and stopping on a GaInAs base of a heterojunction bipolar transistor was studied. Algorithms which monitor the change in Ga emission int...
Testing hypotheses of aging in long-lived mice of the genus Peromyscus : association between longevity and mitochondrial stress resistance, ROS detoxification pathways, and DNA repair efficiency

In the present review we discuss the potential use of two long-lived mice of the genus Peromyscus—the white-footed mouse (P. leucopus) and the deer mouse (P. maniculatus) maximum lifespan potential ∼8 years for both—to test predictions of theories about aging from the oxidative stress theory, mitochondrial theory and inflammatory theory. Previous studies have shown that P. leucopus cells exhibit superior antioxidant defense mechanisms and lower cellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) than do cells of the house mouse, Mus musculus (maximum lifespan ∼3.5 years). We present new data showing that mitochondria in P. leucopus cells produce substantially less ROS than mitochondria in M. musculus cells, and that P. leucopus mitochondria exhibit superior stress resistance to those of M. musculus. We also provide evidence that components of the DNA repair system (e.g., pathways involved in repair of DNA damage induced by γ-irradiation) are likely to be more efficient in P. leucopus than in M. musculus. We propose that mitochondrial stress resistance, ROS detoxification pathways and more efficient DNA repair contribute to the previously documented resistance of P. leucopus cells toward oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. The link between these three pathways and species longevity is discussed.
Primate quadrupedalism: How and why does it differ from that of typical quadrupeds?

Primate quadrupedalism has been reported to differ from that of typical mammals in a variety of features, the most discussed of which is footfall patterns. All prior explanations for this disparity ha
Controlled in vitro environment for stage II micropropagation of chrysanthemum

Optimal levels of light, sucrose, and CO2 for Stage II micropropagation of chrysanthemum were determined. Three levels each of light (75, 100, 125 mmol m–2 s–1 PPF), of sucrose (1%, 2%, 3%), and of force-ventilated CO2 (350, 600, 1200 ppm) were used for a 3 ¥ 3 ¥ 4 factorial experiment of the same culture. Free-ventilated CO2 of 350 ppm, serving as control, constituted the fourth level of CO2. The results showed that a significant increase in dry weight was effected by force-ventilated CO2 and 100 mmol m–2 s–1 PPF when sucrose was reduced from 3% to 2%. The factor levels providing greatest growth of the culture as measured by final dry weight were 3% sucrose, 100 mmol m–2 s–1 PPF, and 350 ppm free-ventilated CO2.
Remote Control Jackleg Drills Reduce Operators’ Overall Noise Exposures

Jackleg drills have proven to be a problem when it comes to overexposures to noise for coal miners as well as metal/nonmetal miners. These pneumatic drills are used to drill holes for roof bolting or blast holes in developmental and stoper mining. They are used when mining vertically or steeply inclined deposits. The “Leg” is a heavy metal support which allows the driller to keep the rig steady when collaring the hole as well as keeping it steady while drilling into the hard rock. Since drilling is done basically by hand, the operator remains in close proximity to the noise associated with the pneumatic hammer. Up until now, little has been done with the exception of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and retrofit mufflers to achieve compliance with the noise standards stated in Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 30, part 62 for the drills of the type. Just recently an anthracite coal mining company, having noise problems associated with their jackleg drills, purchased a “Remote In-Stope Drill Rig” from a manufacturer in South Africa. A noise study was conducted by the Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA) and the cooperative mining company to determine the effectiveness of the remote control jackleg drill in reducing the operator’s overall noise exposure. The baseline test was conducted on the original jackleg drill. Once the new remote unit was received, it was tested as received from the manufacturer with their hammer and again with the company’s original hammer retrofitted to the drill rig. The company also made modifications to the 8 ft. hose extending it to 20 ft. to allow operation further from the noise source. The study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the remote control unit in reducing not only the sound level, but also the overall noise dose. The unit was found to not only reduce the operator’s overall noise exposure when used with either hammer, but allowed drilling to be conducted from a location under permanently supported roof with no vibration on the operator’s hands.© 2009 ASME
Percutaneous stabilization of metastatic disease in the acetabulum

Purpose: Patients with periacetabular bone destruction and impending or pathologic fractures from metastatic cancer have limited treatment options. Complex acetabular reconstruction can improve mobility, but has a high rate of complications and post-operative morbidity, and can delay chemotherapy and radiation. Through the collaboration of orthopedic oncologists and interventional radiologists, we have developed an alternative, minimally invasive approach to stabilize the pelvis. Materials and Methods: Ten patients underwent percutaneous screw fixation and polymethyl methacrylate augmentation for impending or non-displaced pathologic fractures of the acetabulum due to metastatic disease between 11/2011-5/2013. Ablation was performed when appropriate. Medical records were reviewed for hospital course, ability to receive chemotherapy and radiation, pain, and functional scores before and after surgery based on the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scoring system. Results: Ten patients with a median age of 57.5 made up our cohort. We had a 100% technical success rate and no major complications. Seven patients received conscious sedation, and 3 general anesthesia. Postoperatively, 9 patients were weightbearing as tolerated, and 1 patient was toe-touch weight bearing. Five patients were discharged within 24 hours of surgery, with a mean hospital stay of 4 days. Nine patients could immediately receive chemotherapy and radiation. The mean preoperative and postoperative MSTS scores were 0.3 vs. 2.7 for pain (5 is normal), and 7.1 vs. 15.2 for the total functional score (30 is normal). Pain and mobility improved for all patients. Conclusion: Percutaneous acetabular stabilization improves the pain, mobility, and quality of life in patients with painful metastatic disease and limited life expectancy. It carries a low risk of complications and allows for earlier chemotherapy and radiation. Therefore, patients with painful impending or pathologic pelvic fractures should be considered for minimally invasive stabilization through our multidisciplinary approach.
Contrast Enhanced UV Lithography With Polysilanes

Contrast enhanced lithography has been been applied to mid-uv projection lithography with a new class of CEL materials, polysilanes. The nonlinear bleaching photochemistry of polysilanes provides a unique "bleaching latency" for contrast enhanced lithography. SAMPLE resist exposure and development simulation is compared with experimental CEL resist images using AZ2400® photoresist. The contrast enhancement gained with the use of polysilanes is examined as a function of exposure dose, image size, and contrast enhancement film thickness.
Dynamic and Personalized Web Services Composition in E-Business

Building composite Web services can save significant time and cost for developing new applications and enhancing the interoperability and collaboration among E-business partners. This article proposes a framework for dynamic and personalized composition of Web services using an approach that integrates not only functional attributes of Web services, but also nonfunctional attributes such as service requirements, quality of service, and the preferences and constraints of individual service consumers. A prototype system based on the proposed framework and some implementation details are also presented.