cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Durability of Composites Exposed to Ultraviolet Radiation

Publisher Summary In recent years, Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites have become increasingly important in outdoor applications. The polymeric matrix of an FRP composite is subject to degradation caused by solar Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, hot/cold cycling, moisture (liquid and vapor), and environmental pollutants, in a process known as weathering. UV radiation is considered to be the most critical weathering element because it initiates photochemical reactions that lead to irreversible material degradation, yet many of its effects on FRP composites are not fully understood. Since the polymeric matrix binds and transfers load to the reinforcing fibers, damage to this critical component can be detrimental to the overall mechanical properties of the FRP composite and limit its service life. This chapter discusses the effects of UV radiation on polymeric materials and the FRP matrix composites specifically. It also discusses the UV exposure testing and the UV mitigation strategies.
Genetic Predisposition to Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the most common malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract and is the second leading cause of cancer death when both genders are considered. There are several risk factors associated with an increased incidence of colorectal cancer, such as advanced age, high animal fat and low fiber diet, tobacco smoking, pelvic irradiation, and inflammatory bowel disease. However, one must be aware of a special population of patients with increased risk of colorectal cancer due to hereditary syndromes and manage them accordingly. The first step in management of hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome (HCRCS) is recognizing when the condition is present. Some patients may be without symptoms and seen for an unrelated condition. Family cancer history and reviewing surgical and pathology reports are crucial components in recognizing HCRCS. However, some patients with HCRCS will be the first person in a family diagnosed with the syndrome. Other clues may suggest the presence of HCRCS, such as unusual symptoms (abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, blood in stool) or findings (desmoid tumor, skull osteomas, supernumerary teeth) in a young person.
Automated analysis of temperature variance to determine inundation state of wetlands

Monitoring the inundation state (wet or dry) of wetlands is critical to understanding aquatic community structure but can be costly and labor-intensive. We tested the ability of temperature data from cost-effective iButton data loggers to reflect the inundation state of wetlands in central Missouri, based on our hypothesis that dry ponds would show greater daily temperature variance than ponds that remained inundated with water. We evaluated this method with two experiments in large outdoor mesocosms, and in existing natural wetlands in which we had deployed iButtons. True inundation state from pond visits was compared to predicted inundation state over different temperature variance thresholds expected to delineate wet or dry ponds. We confirmed that the daily temperature variances of dry iButtons were higher than that of iButtons under water, as expected, but that variance was influenced by factors such as canopy cover. We also describe an automated procedure that can be used to determine whether a pond was wet or dry with greater than 80 % accuracy. Using this approach, changes in inundation state, the number of days wet and dry, and the number of drying and filling events can be calculated. Several caveats are also provided that should be considered prior to using this method to maximize the accuracy in assessing inundation state.
Measurements of Convection Heat Transfer Coefficients for Hydrocarbon Mixtures during Boiling in a Heated Horizontal Pipe from 100 K to Room Temperature

Abstract There is a scarcity of data and theory currently available regarding the heat transfer coefficients associated with two-phase, multi-component mixtures at cryogenic temperatures. This paper presents results of research aimed at measuring theconvection heat transfer coefficients for hydrocarbon mixtures (methane, ethane, propane, and nitrogen (for dilution)) during evaporation while flowing within a heated horizontal pipe over a wide range of temperatures (from 100 K to room temperature). The results show the heat transfer coefficients along with their sensitivity to parameters such as heat flux, mass flux, pressure, and composition.
Akenside's Refusal of Allegory: The Pleasures of Imagination (1744)

This essay examines the containment of allegory – a project that recent literary criticism shares with that of the eighteenth century. As the article argues, Mark Akenside's The Pleasures of Imagination (1744) self-critically contributes to this work of containment. The three-book poem first dramatises – theatrically, historically – its commitment to mediated allegorical understanding. Yet it eventually questions such a social mode of knowing and attempts instead to reorient allegory towards the inward and synchronic. Akenside's final enthusiastic assertion of clarity, of form unmoored from performance, may blind us to the work allegory does for Akenside even as he strains to redefine it.
Behavioral contracting to improve adherence in patients with thalassemia.

Abstract Twenty-three patients with thalassemia contracted to improve their adherence with subcutaneous desferrioxamine by increasing their number of days of use. Adherence, as measured by empty vial counts, was positively reinforced by careful monitoring and a behavioral reward system. Contingency contracting was successful in 76% of patients over a 6-month period, with 69% maintaining improvement in adherence 2 months after the program. Findings supported the efficacy of behavioral intervention strategies in the care of patients with chronic illness.
A general framework for image segmentation using ordered spatial dependency

The segmentation problem appears in most medical imaging applications. Many research groups are pushing toward a whole body segmentation based on atlases. With a similar objective, we propose a general framework to segment several structures. Rather than inventing yet another segmentation algorithm, we introduce inter-structure spatial dependencies to work with existing segmentation algorithms. Ranking the structures according to their dependencies, we end up with a hierarchical approach that improves each individual segmentation and provides automatic initializations. The best ordering of the structures can be learned off-line. We apply this framework to the segmentation of several structures in brain MR images.
NMR studies of A.C mismatches in DNA dodecanucleotides at acidic pH. Wobble A(anti).C(anti) pair formation.

Two-dimensional proton NMR studies were undertaken on the d(C-G-A-G-A-A-T-T-C-C-C-G) duplex (designated A.C 12-mer) where the A at the mismatch site is flanked by G residues and the d(C-G-C-G-A-A-T-T-C-A-C-G) duplex (designated C.A 12-mer) where the A at the mismatch site is flanked by C residues in an attempt to elucidate the role of flanking base pairs on the structure of the A.C mismatch. The exchangeable and nonexchangeable proton spectra of these two dodecanucleotides have been completely characterized by two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) experiments in H2O and D2O solution at acidic pH. The NOE distance connectivities demonstrate that both A and C at the mismatch site are stacked into a right-handed helix between flanking G.C base pairs and exhibit anti-glycosidic torsion angles. The proton chemical shifts and NOE patterns are consistent with Wobble A.C pairing for the A.C 12-mer and C.A 12-mer duplexes in solution and demonstrate that the A.C mismatches introduce local conformational perturbations that do not extend to the central AATT segment. We detect that amino protons of adenosine (approximately 9.2 ppm) but not of cytidine at the A.C mismatch site in both duplexes on lowering the pH below 6.
Introduction to Diffusion Processes

In this section we describe a class of stochastic processes called the diffusion processes. These are continuous-time, continuous state-space processes and their sample paths are continuous everywhere but differentiable nowhere. Since diffusions are defined through stochastic differential equations, we give a brief introduction to stochastic differential equations (which include a discussion on stochastic integration as well). Diffusion processes are defined in terms of these differential equations. Finally we conclude the section with some specific example of diffusion processes. Keywords: Brownian motion; stochastic integration; Ito integral; stochastic process
The asymmetric prime: An empirical note

Abstract This paper applies a limited-dependent variable approach, the friction model, to an empirical examination of the two-dimensional nature of asymmetry in the prime rate, one corresponding to an unchanging prime and a second to adjustments in the rate.
Comparison of thymulin activity to other measures in marginally zinc deficient rats (1043.11)

Activity of the thymus derived, immunoregulatory peptide thymulin has shown high sensitivity to zinc status in humans. However, this research has generally been done for people with the confounding effects of various health issues. In contrast, a study was done on healthy, semi-mature growing rats where the only variable was adequate zinc status versus a short term, moderate restriction of zinc intake. After 2 weeks of being fed a diet with 5 ppm zinc, rats showed a mean serum zinc value that was 31% lower than for rats fed 27 ppm zinc. A much bigger mean percent difference of 61% was seen for serum thymulin activity. This activity was determined by a rosette formation assay that uses sheep erythrocytes plus spleen cells from thymectomized mice. Activity was restored to 100% of normal in vitro by adding zinc to the assay. Body weight was lower in the rats fed lower zinc (187 + 5 g vs 242 + 13), but total food intake was not much lower, and was the same per body weight. Serum extracellular superoxide dismu...
Comments on “Simulation of hurricane-type vortices in a general circulation model”

In a recent paper, Bengtsson et al. (1982) (hereafter referred to as 882) describe intense tropical vortices which appear in the operational ten-day forecasts of the ECMWF global primitive equation model. This note takes up their invitation for further discussion. Below a number of the major differences between the model and real cyclones are documented in the hope of adding insight on the relevance of their simulations to tropical cyclones in the real atmosphere. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0870.1984.tb00227.x
Fan-delta sequence in the Archean Fig Tree Group, Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa

Abstract The Fig Tree Group of the Barberton Greenstone Belt in South Africa records the onset of tectonism and significant terrigenous and volcaniclastic sedimentation following a period of predominantly effusive volcanism. In the southern part of the greenstone belt the lower Fig Tree conformably overlies the Onverwacht Group and can be grouped into either: (1) volcaniclastic deposits consisting of pyroclastic and reworked volcanic detritus, or; (2) non-volcanogenic, terrigenous deposits of sandstone and conglomerate. These petrologic groups are further divided into six lithofacies. The lithofacies within the lower Fig Tree Formation can be grouped into two facies associations: (1) a subaqueous, delta-front association made up of fine-grained airfall pyroclastic and slightly reworked pyroclastic debris along with resedimented, land-derived sandstone and conglomerate, and (2) a subaerial association that is interpreted as forming from deposition of sandstone and conglomerate by flashy, ephemeral-stream processes on an alluvial-fan surface. The stratigraphic sequence coarsens upward from predominantly siltstone and fine-grained sandstone at the base to pebble and cobble conglomerate at the top. This sequence is interpreted as forming from the progradation of a fan delta into a body of relatively shallow, quiet water. Composition of clasts in the conglomerates indicates that immediately underlying greenstone-belt rocks or coeval volcanic rocks were the source for these coarse sedimentary accumulations. Erosion of uplifted greenstone-belt terrain was apparently only to shallow levels. Both tectonic and volcanic activity played a role in producing several cycles of fan-delta progradation.
Papillary-cystic neoplasm of the pancreas

Papillary-cystic neoplasm of the pancreas is a rare, nonfunctioning low-grade malignant tumor seen in young patients, most often female. Ultrasound and CT show a circumscribed, solid nonhomogeneous mass with cystic areas, with peripheral but not central enhancement and occasional calcification. Prognosis after excision is usually excellent. We describe a case of the papillary-cystic neoplasm of the pancreas in a 13-year-old girl to illustrate the radiological findings.
Traditional LRV Side-Load Requirements and Their Applicability to Low Floor Cars

The focus of this paper is to study the application of Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) side-load requirements to Low Floor LRVs (LF LRVs). Although the side-load requirements of LRVs are not completely consistent among different transit authorities, an industry pseudo-standard of 40,000 lbs applied over an 8 foot span at the side sill has emerged. In LF LRVs, this standard may not provide the same level of safety as in High Floor LRVs (HF LRVs). In some US automobiles, the bottom of the bumper is higher than the top of the floor in LF LRVs. Given comparable sidewall construction, when a passenger vehicle impacts the side of an LRV, the opportunity for intrusion/override into the passenger compartment in a LF LRV is higher than that in a HF LRV. The popularity of light trucks, SUVs, minivans and other vehicles with high bumper heights further aggravates this situation.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Abstract 1440: Validation of potential therapeutic targeting of IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway by AZD1480 in neuroblastoma and other pediatric tumors

Neuroblastoma is the most deadly extra-cranial solid childhood tumor. Despite advanced therapies, over 60% of high-risk NB patients have aggressive tumors spreading to bone and bone marrow and die of metastasis-related disease. IL-6 promotes the growth and survival of metastatic NB cells via activation of STAT3 in the BM and is an independent poor-prognosis marker in tumors from high-risk NB patients. This suggests that blockade of IL6/JAK/STAT3 signaling may represent a promising therapeutic strategy. We tested the anti-tumor effect of inhibition IL6/JAK/STAT3 pathway by the JAK1/2 inhibitor AZD1480, which is in Phase II clinical trials in adult tumors, in three highly metastatic pediatric tumor types (Neuroblastoma, Ewing sarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma). AZD1480 (0.5uM) significantly blocked IL-6-induced P-STAT3-Tyr705 in all tumor types tested. AZD1480 decreased cell viability in the 6 NB, 5 RMS and 2 EWS cell lines tested (median IC50 1.17uM, ranging from 0.42-5.1uM). AZD1480 induced cell growth inhibition, G2 arrest and apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, AZD1480 inhibited the expression of identified direct STAT3 targets such as cell cycle regulators CyclinD2, CyclinD3 and CDC25A, antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Survivin, metastasis-related protein TIMP-1 and c-myc consistent with its repression of cell growth, induction of G2 arrest and apoptosis. In in vivo Neuroblastoma xenograft models, AZD1480 suppressed growth of SY5Y and KCNR xenografts and increased survival of mice bearing KCNR xenografts (P=0.0001) and SY5Y xenografts (P=0.02). Altogether, these data suggest the clinical blockade of IL6/JAK/STAT3 signaling by AZD1480 may represent a promising new therapy in NB and other pediatric tumors. We thank Dennis Huszar and AstraZeneca for the AZD1480 and helpful discussions. Key words: neuroblastoma, JAK2, STAT3, IL-6, targeted therapy Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1440. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1440
Designing and implementing insulin infusion protocols and order sets.

Influential trials and guidelines supporting the value of glucose control in hospital settings, particularly in the intensive care and postoperative settings, has led to the widespread adoption of intravenous infusions of human regular insulin. As groups have attempted to study the outcomes or to explore improved methods for improved glucose control, a number of insulin infusion protocols (IIPs) have been reported and validated. Now, many institutions are attempting to translate this experience into clinical practice in a systematic manner. The intent of this discussion is to highlight the authors’ practical view of best practices in development and use of IIPs. As the implementation of IIPs has progressed, it has become apparent that this is not a simple process. It requires a carefully planned, inclusive, and continuous effort striving to attain effective glucose control while avoiding severe hypoglycemia. Whereas there are limitations in the literature comparing the IIPs, we identify design elements and implementation methods that increase the chances for staff acceptance and safe attainment of glycemic goals. Most importantly, this must be a team effort with attention to the numerous potential pitfalls that can disrupt the process and place patients at risk.
Flexible ethnic identity, adaptation, survival, resistance: The Garifuna in the world-system

In this paper we examine flexible ethnic identity formation as a mechanism of accommodation and resistance deployed by a particular social group with origins in the periphery as they respond to changing political and economic forces in the world-system. This paper addresses criticisms that world-system analyses are ‘too macro’ or ‘structurally deterministic’ by examining on the ground action and responses by a local oppositional movement within its broad political and economic context. Its focus is an historical case study of a particular group of people whose origins lie in European colonial expansion into the Caribbean in the seventeenth century. The paper begins by recounting ethnographic reports of Garifuna origin myths, then sketches this group's forced incorporation in a colonial world-system (and their responses), discusses their assignment to ‘minority group’ status within newly independent Belize at about the same time they are establishing transnational communities via migration to the United St...
Islet allograft, islet xenograft, and skin allograft survival in CD8+ T lymphocyte-deficient mice.

Despite extensive study, the immunologic mechanisms mediating allograft rejection have not been completely defined. In the current study, we evaluated the T cell subsets important in islet allograft, skin allograft, and islet xenograft rejection using a genetically engineered line of mice deficient in β 2 -microglobulin expression. Because these mice lack cell surface MHC class I expression, they are deficient in T cells of the CD8 subset (class I-restricted cytotoxic T cells). Pancreatic islet allografts transplanted to CD8 + T cell-deficient recipients showed prolonged survival compared with controls. No prolongation was observed in the survival of pancreatic islet xenografts or in the survival of skin allografts transplanted to the CD8 + T cell-deficient hosts
Residual oil fly ash induces cytotoxicity and mucin secretion by guinea pig tracheal epithelial cells via an oxidant-mediated mechanism.

Inhalation of ambient air particulate matter (PM) is associated with pulmonary injury and inflammation. Using primary cultures of guinea pig tracheal epithelial (GPTE) cells as an in vitro model of airway epithelium, we examined effects of exposure to suspensions of six different emission and ambient air PM samples: residual oil fly ash (ROFA) from an electrical power plant; fly ash from a domestic oil burning furnace (DOFA); ambient air dust from St. Louis (STL), Ottawa (OT), and Washington, DC (WDC); and volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Saint Helens (MSH) in 1980. Effects of these particulates on cell viability (assessed via LDH assay), secretion of mucin (measured by a monoclonal antibody-based ELISA), and steady-state mRNA levels of the mucin gene MUC2 were determined. ROFA was the most toxic of the dusts tested, as it significantly increased LDH release following a 24-h incubation with 50 μg/cm2 ROFA. ROFA also enhanced MUC2 mRNA after 4-h exposure, and mucin secretion after 8 h. ROFA-induced mucin secretion and cytotoxicity were attenuated by the oxidant scavenger, dimethylthiourea (DMTU). ROFA exposure also depleted cells of glutathione (GSH). Relatedly, depletion of intracellular GSH by treatment of the cells with buthionine sulfoxamine (BSO) also provoked mucin secretion, as well as enhancing the secretory effect of ROFA when the two agents were added together. L-NMA, the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, did not affect ROFA-induced mucin secretion. Of the soluble transition metals in ROFA (nickel, iron, vanadium), only vanadium individually, or combinations of the metals containing vanadium, provoked secretion. The results suggest ROFA enhances mucin secretion and generates toxicity in vitro to airway epithelium via a mechanism(s) involving generation of oxidant stress, perhaps related to depletion of cellular antioxidant capacity. Deleterious effects of inhalation of ROFA in the respiratory tract in vivo may relate to these cellular responses. Vanadium, a component of ROFA, may be important in generating these reactions.
Cushing proximal symphalangism and the NOG and GDF5 genes

Proximal symphalangism (SYM1) is an autosomal-dominant developmental disorder of joint fusion. This disorder is best known from famous historical descriptions of two large kindred: Cushing’s description in 1916 of the “straight-fingered” Brown family of Virginia and Drinkwater’s description in 1917 of the British Talbot family of noble blood, descended from the English war hero John Talbot, the first Earl of Shrewsbury (1388–1453). Recent genetic studies link this phenotype to expression of abnormal genes at future joint sites: too little expression of NOG, a growth antagonist, or overexpression of GDF5, a growth agonist, results in cartilage overgrowth and bony fusion. This review unites in depth the first historical accounts of SYM1 with a clinical description and reviews the current understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying what is likely the oldest dominant trait ever studied.
Involucrin, a marker of squamous and urothelial differentiation. An immunohistochemical study on its distribution in normal and neoplastic tissues

Involucrin is a soluble protein precursor of the cross-linked envelope present in the submembranous zone of human stratum corneum, and subsequently demonstrated in stratified squamous epithelia. The immunoperoxidase technique was used to assess the distribution of involucrin in 107 normal and 318 abnormal tissues. With few exceptions, involucrin was restricted to squamous epithelia, urothelium, some skin appendages and thymic Hassall's corpuscles. In normal squamous epithelium and normal urothelium, staining was most intense in the superficial layers where it was concentrated at the cell periphery and gradually decreased toward the basal layer. This orderly staining pattern was maintained in benign squamous and urothelial lesions and in grade I papillary urothelial carcinomas. Higher grade papillary urothelial carcinomas, infiltrating urothelial and squamous carcinomas, and in situ urothelial and squamous carcinomas demonstrated abnormal staining patterns for involucrin that are described. Foci of squamous differentiation in adenocarcinomas and other epithelial malignancies stained intensely for involucrin. Brenner tumours of the ovary and Walthard rests of the fallopian tube, lesions of uncertain histogenesis but possibly urothelial-related, also stained for involucrin. Results of this study suggest that involucrin is a sensitive and specific marker for squamous and urothelial differentiation, staining patterns for involucrin may be helpful in distinguishing benign from malignant urothelial and squamous lesions, and presence of involucrin may be helpful in determining the histogenesis of selected lesions.
The performance of a production-model management procedure

Abstract The performance of a production-model management procedure (the combination of a Schaefer surplus-production function observation-error estimator and the f0.1 harvesting strategy) is evaluated by means of Monte Carlo simulation. Several factors which impact the performance of a management procedure (initial depletion, historic catch trajectory, extent of recruitment variability, level of noise about the abundance index, and values for other population model parameters) are considered. The best performance, in terms of conservation and moving the population to its target biomass level, is achieved when recruitment variability, the noise about the abundance index and natural mortality are low, and productivity is high. Performance, in terms of conservation, is poor if management commences from a virtually unexploited state due to the possibility that the estimator overestimates the size of the biomass. In this situation, performance is improved by restricting the extent of inter-annual change in catch, although the improvement is at the expense of lesser recovery of overexploited resources and lesser utilization of resources which are initially virtually pristine. The results of this paper can be used as part of an evaluation of whether a production model can be used in the management of a particular resource.
Strange attractors that govern mammalian brain dynamics shown by trajectories of electroencephalographic (EEG) potential

Four examples are shown which demonstrate the use of computer graphics to visualize chaotic attractors from EEGs (electroencephalograms). The recordings are made from multiple sites: factor analysis is used to partition the variance into orthogonal components, and the largest three serve best to represent the dynamics in the three Euclidean dimensions accessible using a flight simulator. It is then possible to observe the trajectories of attractors in 3-space, using color or time slices to suggest yet higher dimensions. >
Zero sound and the viscoelasticity of liquid 3He

Simple acoustic dispersion and attenuation relations which apply for all values of ΩΤ and which contain the zero-sound solution for ΩΤ ≫ 1 are obtained for liquid 3He. They are found to agree extremely well with published results on longitudinal zero sound. A unique feature of a zero-sound experiment is that it yields all the information necessary to obtain the nonmagnetic and non-heatconductive parameters of the normal 3He as T → 0.
Pre-liver transplantation locoregional adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma as a strategy to improve longterm survival.

Background Preorthotopic liver transplantation locoregional therapy (LRT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) reduces drop-out rates in patients awaiting orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). In this study, we investigated the efficacy of LRT as a strategy to improve longterm survival after transplantation. Study Design A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data identified 100 patients with HCC who underwent OLT between 1985 and 2005. Of these, 46 received LRT in the form of transarterial chemoembolization, radiofrequency ablation, percutaneous ethanol injection, or a combination of these. Results The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survivals, regardless of LRT, were 81.3%, 66.1%, and 61.3%, respectively. Demographic data and waiting time for OLT were similar between LRT and untreated groups. Pre-OLT radiologic stage was comparable (LRT: 2.11 ± 0.74 versus Untreated: 2.39 ± 0.94; p=0.16). At the time of transplantation, the LRT group had notable tumor downstaging (1.50 ± 1.34 versus 2.49 ± 1.17; p=0.008). The LRT group had better 5-year survival (82.4% versus 51.8%; p=0.01), but this improvement was observed in patients with HCC stages II, III, and IV (77.6% versus 37.4%; p=0.016). Sixteen LRT patients, and none untreated, revealed complete tumor necrosis with no viable tumor cells on explant pathology (pT0). These patients did not experience any longterm recurrence, in contrast to those with similar pre-OLT tumors. Conclusions OLT is a viable treatment option for primary HCC. LRT substantially downstages the primary tumor and improves longterm survival in patients with advanced disease. Complete tumor necrosis with LRT is associated with excellent longterm recurrence-free survival.
Viscosity of lunar lavas

The viscosity of a synthetic silicate liquid with the composition of a lunar rock has been determined experimentally and found to be lower than that of any previously studied volcanic rock on earth. Course Crystallinity can be a feature of rapidly cooled surface lavas.
Dust bag and backrubber applications of insecticides for control of pyrethroid-resistant horn flies, Haematobia irritans (L.)

Abstract Pyrethroid-resistant horn flies, Haematobia irritans (L.), were controlled (92–100%) by fenvalerate, permethrin, coumaphos, dioxathion, crotoxyphos, malathion and chlorpyrifos applied by dust bags or backrubbers. Only methoxychlor and stirofos were not effective, indicating possible cross resistance to these insecticides. Pyrethroids, which were not effective when applied from ear tags, were effective in dust bags or oil-type backrubbers, indicating that resistance may be overcome by high doses of insecticides. Except for methoxychlor and stirofos, it appears that insecticides being recommended for horn fly control in dust bags and backrubbers are effective against pyrethoid-resistant horn flies.
Solidification of a binary mixture with arbitrary heat flux and initial conditions

The problem of solidification of a binary mixture in a semi-infinite region with arbitrarily prescribed initial temperature and composition subject to an arbitrary heat flux at its surface is studied. The liquidus and solidus lines of the phase diagram are used to relate the freezing temperature and the composition of the mixture. Solidification, depending on the prescribed data, could occur immediately or at a later time. In the latter case, there is a period of presolidification. Thus the initial condition of the subsequent solidification cannot be assigned arbitrarily; in particular, it cannot be taken as a uniform state. The conditions for occurrence of these cases are studied and specified. The exact solutions for each of these are found. Existence, uniqueness and convergence of the series solutions are also considered and proved.
Hibernation enhances D-glucose uptake by intestinal brush border membrane vesicles in ground squirrels.

The ability to actively transport nutrients is maintained in intestinal tissues of hibernating ground squirrels compared with their active counterparts, and shows apparent upregulation in hibernators when transport rates are normalized to tissue mass. To identify the mechanisms responsible for the preservation of transport function during the extended fast of hibernation, we studiedd-glucose uptake into jejunal brush border membrane vesicles prepared from active and hibernating 13-lined ground squirrels. Hibernators were without food and showing regular bouts of torpor for at least 6 weeks before sacrifice. Electron micrographs indicated similar microvillus heights of jejunal enterocytes in the two activity states, whereas microvillus density was slightly greater in the hibernators. Glucose uptake into brush border membrane vesicles was inversely related to medium osmolarity, indicating negligible binding of substrate to brush border membrane vesicles surfaces, and intravesicular spaces were similar in hibernating and active squirrels. Glucose uptake showed strong Na+ dependency in both groups, with equivalent overshoot values in the presence of Na+. Kinetic analysis revealed a significant increase in the maximal velocity of transport (Jmax) in hibernators (55.9±5.6 nmol·min-1·mg-1) compared with active squirrels (36.7±5.1 nmol·min-1·mg-1,P<0.05), with no change inKm. Thus, the structure and absorptive capacity of the intestinal brush border persists in fasted hibernators, and the increase inJmax for glucose uptake during hibernation likely contributes to the enhanced Na+-dependent glucose absorption previously observed at the tissue level.
Optical two-dimensional Fourier transform spectroscopy of semiconductors

Abstract Two-dimensional Fourier transform spectra of optical excitations in semiconductor quantum wells are obtained. Coupling between heavy-hole excitons, light-hole excitons and unbound electron–hole-pairs results in off-diagonal features. A qualitative analysis of these features reveals the dominance of many-body interactions.
Immunopathogenesis of osteoarthritis

Even though osteoarthritis (OA) is mainly considered as a degradative condition of the articular cartilage, there is increasing body of data demonstrating the involvement of all branches of the immune system. Genetic, metabolic or mechanical factors cause an initial injury to the cartilage resulting in release of several cartilage specific auto-antigens, which trigger the activation of immune response. Immune cells including T cells, B cells and macrophages infiltrate the joint tissues, cytokines and chemokines are released from different kinds of cells present in the joint, complement system is activated, and cartilage degrading factors such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) are released, resulting in further damage to the articular cartilage. There is considerable success in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis using anti-cytokine therapies. In OA, however, these therapies did not show much effect, highlighting more complex nature of pathogenesis of OA. This needs the development of more novel approaches to treat OA, which may include therapies that act on multiple targets. Plant natural products have this kind of property and may be considered for future drug development efforts. Here we reviewed the studies implicating different components of the immune system in the pathogenesis of OA.
Intestinal permeability of chlorpyrifos using the single-pass intestinal perfusion method in the rat.

The intestinal transport of chlorpyrifos (CPF), an organothiophosphate pesticide, was investigated using the single-pass intestinal perfusion (SPIP) technique in male, Sprague–Dawley rats. SPIP was performed in each isolated region of the small intestine (i.e. duodenum, jejunum and ileum) with three concentrations of CPF (0.1, 2.0 and 10 μM) at a flow rate of 0.25 ml/min. Preliminary binding and stability studies were conducted to ensure that the loss of CPF in the SPIP study can be attributed to intestinal absorption. The effective permeability (Peff) of CPF was determined for each segment and concentration. CPF exhibits a high intestinal permeability over the length of the small intestine indicative of compounds that are well absorbed. Decreases in permeability values at the highest CPF concentration studied in the duodenum and ileum suggest a saturable transport process. Based on these results, passive, transcellular diffusion dominates the intestinal transport mechanism of CPF, with a saturable transport process evident in the duodenum and ileum. The Peff of CPF is in the range of drugs with high intestinal permeability and high fraction of dose absorbed indicating that CPF readily crosses the intestine. The dependence of CPF's Peff on concentration in the duodenum and ileum suggests that CPF is transported by a combination of mechanisms across the intestine. Using established relationships, the human fraction dose absorbed for CPF was estimated to be >99%. The permeability values obtained from this study may be useful in models of exposure assessment.
Carcinoembryonic antigen-stimulated THP-1 macrophages activate endothelial cells and increase cell–cell adhesion of colorectal cancer cells

The liver is the most common site for metastasis by colorectal cancer, and numerous studies have shown a relationship between serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels and metastasis to this site. CEA activates hepatic macrophages or Kupffer cells via binding to the CEA receptor (CEA-R), which results in the production of cytokines and the up-regulation of endothelial adhesion molecules, both of which are implicated in hepatic metastasis. Since tissue macrophages implicated in the metastatic process can often be difficult to isolate, the aim of this study was to develop an in vitro model system to study the complex mechanisms of CEA-induced macrophage activation and metastasis. Undifferentiated, human monocytic THP-1 (U-THP) cells were differentiated (D-THP) to macrophages by exposure to 200 ng/ml phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) for 18 h. Immunohistochemistry showed two CEA-R isoforms present in both U- and D-THP cells. The receptors were localized primarily to the nucleus in U-THP cells, while a significant cell-surface presence was observed following PMA-differentiation. Incubation of D-THP-1 cells with CEA resulted in a significant increase in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) release over 24 h compared to untreated D-THP-1 or U-THP controls confirming the functionality of these cell surface receptors. U-THP cells were unresponsive to CEA. Attachment of HT-29 cells to human umbilical vein endothelial cells significantly increased at 1 h after incubation with both recombinant TNF-alpha and conditioned media from CEA stimulated D-THP cells by six and eightfold, respectively. This study establishes an in vitro system utilizing a human macrophage cell line expressing functional CEA-Rs to study activation and signaling mechanisms of CEA that facilitate tumor cell attachment to activated endothelial cells. Utilization of this in vitro system may lead to a more complete understanding of the expression and function of CEA-R and facilitate the design of anti-CEA-R therapeutic modalities that may significantly diminish the metastatic potential of CEA overexpressing colorectal tumors.
MRI scanner transport system

A computer-controlled transport system has been designed and tested for small bore magnetic resonance scanners for animal research. The transport system allows remote animal positioning based on scout images using a graphic interface. The design utilized commercially available components suitable for use in the scanner's strong magnetic field. Tests indicate positioning accuracy of the transport system to be within 0.13 mm.
Single dose ofloxacin plus loperamide compared with single dose or three days of ofloxacin in the treatment of traveler's diarrhea

Background: Although the use of the antimicrobial, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, in combination with the antisecretory and antimotility agent, loperamide, has been shown to be efficacious in the treatment of traveler's diarrhea, the use of fluoroquinolone antimicrobials in combination with loperamide has less support in the literature. The present study was designed to compare the efficacy of ofloxacin versus ofloxacin plus loperamide in the treatment of acute traveler's diarrhea. Method: This prospective, randomized, evaluator-blinded treatment trial was conducted in Guadalajara, Mexico, during the summers of 1992-1994. Adults newly arrived in Mexico from the United States who developed acute diarrhea of less than 2 weeks' duration were randomized to receive orally either: A) ofloxacin, 400 mg once; B) ofloxacin, 200 mg twice a day for six doses; or C) ofloxacin, 400 mg once, plus loperamide, 4 mg once followed by 2 mg after each loose stool, not to exceed 16 mg per day, for 3 days. The duration of illness was the number of hours elapsed from the beginning of therapy to the passage of the last unformed stool. Results: Ofloxacin and loperamide were well tolerated. Combination therapy with single dose ofloxacin plus loperamide was significantly more efficacious in reducing the duration of diarrhea than single dose ofloxacin or ofloxacin given for 3 days (p <.00001). Furthermore, combination therapy was more efficacious when enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) was the pathogen (p <.01) or when no pathogen was isolated (p <.001). Sixty-three percent of subjects passed no further unformed stools after the initial doses of combination therapy, and 91% were well by the end of the first 24 hours. Conclusions: The combined use of a single dose of ofloxacin with loperamide is safe and more efficacious in the treatment of traveler's diarrhea than use of ofloxacin alone.
A biclustering approach to analyze drug effects on extracellular matrix remodeling post-myocardial infarction

Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is an important process to determine the functional and geometric changes of the left ventricle (LV) post-myocardial infarction (MI). Currently, little research has been performed to determine key factors associated with extracellular matrix remodeling post-ML We have collected the expression levels of 84 genes in LV extracellular matrix from wild type C57BL/6J mice at day 0 (control group), day 28 (MI saline group), and day 28 MI groups treated with Aliskiren, Valsartan, and a combination of these two drugs, given from 3 h post-MI (number=6 each group). Further, we have categorized these genes using sparse singular value decomposition (SSVD) based biclustering algorithm with measurement noises considered. Our results identified the 10 most significant genes in the infarct region, and these genes were cadherin-1, collagen I and IL connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-3, neural cell adhesion molecule-2, osteopontin, thrombospondin-1, Tissue inhibitor of metallopreteinases-1, and tenascin C. We also identified the 15 most significant genes in the non-infarct region, which shared 6 significant genes with the infarct region (collagen IL connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-3, osteopontin, thrombospondin-1, and tenascin C). We then analyzed pathways enriched by the identified significant genes. Interestingly, cell death and adhesion pathways were the most significant functions identified in the infarct region while cell adhesion, cell migration, and inflammatory pathways were enriched in non-infarct region, suggesting their effect on the LV remodeling process. Our results provide a rationale for future research that target these pathways.
What do we need for a value-based beef marketing system?

Abstract A functioning value-based marketing system is critical to the economic well-being of the beef industry. Producers must be paid for producing what the consumers demand. Clear signals must come from the consumer to the marketing chain to the producer. The US beef industry has agreed upon eight consensus points that need to the resolved before a functioning value-based marketing system can become a reality. Following the agreement on these consensus points, the US beef industry has declared ‘War on Fat’. The consensus points and the industry's ‘war’ plans are discussed.
Health insurance eroding for working families: employer-provided coverage declines for fifth consecutive year.

In 2005, the percentage of Americans with employer-provided health insurance fell for the fifth year in a row. Workers and their families have been falling into the ranks of the uninsured at alarming rates. The downward trend in employer-provided coverage for children also continued into 2005. In the previous four years, children were less likely to become uninsured as public sector health coverage expanded, but in 2005 the rate of uninsured children increased. While Medicaid and SCHIP still work for many, the government has not picked up coverage for everybody who lost insurance. The weakening of this system—notably for children—is particularly difficult for workers and their families in a time of stagnating incomes. Furthermore, these programs are not designed to prevent low-income adults or middle- or high-income families from becoming uninsured. Government at the federal and state levels has responded to medical inflation with policy changes that reduce public insurance eligibility or with proposals t...
‘Wanton Females of All Sorts’: Spectatorship in The Antipodes

Focusing on Richard Brome's presentation of the theatre in The Antipodes (1638) as a force for social stability and sexual regulation, this essay reads the play as a response to the attack on the stage in William Prynne’s 1633 Histrio-mastix , particularly in terms of the increasingly prominent female playgoer in the 1630s. Satirizing assumptions about the sexually predatory spectacle and the emotionally liquid playgoer that underlie anti-theatrical anxieties of early modern London, The Antipodes also suggests a larger model for relations between theatre audiences and theatrical spectacles. This model ultimately places authority with spectators rather than players or playwrights and imagines the audience, like the chaste and witty Diana, asserting its control over the private theatres of Caroline London.
A positive feedback mechanism governs the polarity and motion of motile cilia

On cells with motile cilia, cilia not only generate flow along a specific axis, but are involved in sensing and responding to that flow in a way that influences cell polarity. This model suggests a new paradigm for how polarity can be generated in a developing tissue, which will be of general interest to all developmental biologists. Ciliated epithelia produce fluid flow in many organ systems, ranging from the respiratory tract where it clears mucus1 to the ventricles of the brain where it transports cerebrospinal fluid2. Human diseases that disable ciliary flow, such as primary ciliary dyskinesia, can compromise organ function or the ability to resist pathogens, resulting in recurring respiratory infections, otitis, hydrocephaly and infertility3. To create a ciliary flow, the cilia within each cell need to be polarized coordinately along the planar axis of the epithelium, but how polarity is established in any ciliated epithelia is not known. Here we analyse the developmental mechanisms that polarize cilia, using the ciliated cells in the developing Xenopus larval skin as a model system4. We show that cilia acquire polarity through a sequence of events, beginning with a polar bias set by tissue patterning, followed by a refinement phase. Our results indicate that during refinement, fluid flow is both necessary and sufficient in determining cilia polarity. These findings reveal a novel mechanism in which tissue patterning coupled with fluid flow act in a positive feedback loop to direct the planar polarity of cilia.
Increased incidence of urinary matrix metalloproteinases as predictors of disease in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Background: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of metal-dependent enzymes responsible for the degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix and basement membrane proteins that occurs during both normal physiologic activity and disease. It has been suggested that MMPs may also play a role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by mediating mucosal breakdown in response to an enhanced inflammatory cascade. We previously demonstrated that elevated urinary MMP levels are independent predictors of disease status in cancer patients. Here we demonstrate that elevated urinary MMP levels may be biomarkers of disease activity in patients with IBD. Methods: We analyzed 95 urine samples prospectively collected from 55 children and young adults with known or suspected IBD who presented for evaluation to the Gastrointestinal Procedure Unit at Children's Hospital Boston. Urinary MMPs were analyzed in patients by zymography and compared to 40 age- and sex-matched controls. Results: Urinary MMP levels were significantly elevated (P < 0.0001) in patients with IBD, as well as in each subgroup (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), relative to controls. Multiple logistic regression revealed that urinary MMP-2 and MMP-9 NGAL levels were independent predictors of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: These data are the first to demonstrate that urinary MMPs may represent novel noninvasive biomarkers for use in the evaluation of patients with IBD. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2008)