cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compositional effects on the fouling resistance of fluorourethane coatings

A series of fluorinated polyurethane polymers have been prepared and characterized. Immersion experiments have been performed to determine the fouling-release effectiveness of the coatings. The surface energies of the films are between 12 mJ m−2 to 33 mJ m−2 and are controlled by the fluorine content of the polymer. These surface energies are well below the values shown by conventional alkyd, epoxy, vinyl, polyester, and polyurethane coatings (39 mJ m−2 and 50 mJ m−2). Surface energy is not the dominant factor in determining the fouling- release behaviour of these coatings. Instead, measurements of the coating modulus, hardness, and glass transition temperature indicate that supple, soft polymers, with a high degree of mobility may display more effective fouling-release characteristics than more rigid, harder polymers below their glass transition temperatures. Surface roughness also appears to be a major factor in determining coating fouling-release behaviour. This work has demonstrated that marine organisms bind to fluorinated polyurethanes with significantly less strength than to the unfluorinated epoxy, vinyl and urethane resins which are now used with toxicants in marine coatings. However, this work has shown that these fluorinated polyurethanes are not sufficiently promising to merit further attention as non-toxic anti-fouling coatings for ship hulls. Fluorinated polyurethanes remain very attractive coatings for exterior and anti-corrosive service, especially in application requiring easy cleanability and resistance to sunlight, weather, and chemicals.
Numerical simulation of flow and heat transfer in radially rotating microchannels

Investigation of fluid flow and heat transfer in rotating microchannels is important for centrifugal microfluidics, which has emerged as an advanced technique in biomedical applications and chemical separations. The centrifugal force and Coriolis force, arising as a consequence of the microchannel rotation, change the flow pattern significantly from the symmetric profile of a non-rotating channel. Successful design of microfluidic devices in centrifugal microfluidics depends on effectively regulating these forces in rotating microchannels. In this work, we have numerically investigated the flow and heat transfer in rotating rectangular microchannel with continuum assumption. A pressure-based finite-volume technique with a staggered grid was applied to solve the steady incompressible Navier–Stokes and energy equations. It was observed that the effect of Coriolis force was determined by the value of the non-dimensional rotational Reynolds number (Reω). By comparing the root mean square deviation of the axial velocity profiles with the approximate analytical results of purely centrifugal flow for different aspect ratios (AR = width/height), a critical rotational Reynolds number (Reω,cr) was computed. Above this value of (Reω,cr), the effect of secondary flow becomes dominant. For aspect ratios of 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 and 9.09, this critical rotational Reynolds number (Reω,cr) was found to be 14.0, 5.5, 3.8, 4.7, 6.5 and 10.0, respectively.
High-resolution LCD projector for extra-wide-field-of-view head-up display

LCD projection-based cockpit displays are beginning to make entry into military and commercial aircraft. Customers for commercial Head-Up Displays (HUDs)(including airframe manufacturers) are now interested in the adaptation of the technology into existing and future HUD optical systems. LCD projection can improve mean-time-between-failure rates because the LCDs are very robust and the light sources can be replaced with scheduled maintenance by the customer without the need for re-calibration. LCD projectors promise to lower the cost of the HUD because the cost of these displays continues to drop while the cost of CRTs remain stable. LCD projectors provide the potential for multi-colors, higher brightness raster, and all-digital communication between the flight computer and display unit. Another potential benefit of LCD projection is the ability to increase field of view and viewing eyebox without exceeding existing power budgets or reducing display lifetime and reliability compared to the capabilities provided by CRTs today. This paper describes the performance requirements and improved performance of a third-generation LCD projection image source for use in a wide field of view head-up display (HUD) optical system. This paper will focus on new HUD requirements and the application of various technologies such as LCOS microdisplays, arc lamps, and rear-projection screens. Measured performance results are compared to the design requirements.
Applying Social and Cultural Capital Frameworks: Understanding Employment Perspectives of Transition Age Youth with Serious Mental Health Conditions

Vulnerable transition age youth, such as those in foster care and with serious mental health conditions, are at increased risk for lower rates of employment. Social capital is empirically linked to employment in the general population, yet little is known about the role of social capital in employment for at-risk transition age youth. Focus groups were conducted with young people with serious mental health conditions and their vocational specialists. Discussions reveal that both social and cultural capital influence employment processes. Those with employment experience value the motivation to work provided through others compared to those with no employment experience. Consistently employed describe strong working relationships with vocational specialists and possession of self-awareness, professionalism, and work-place knowledge as critical for employment success, while inconsistently employed describe worries about controlling emotions or behaviors on the job. Building social and cultural capital are explored as potential service provider goals.
Increased anxiety-like behavior in adult rats exposed to nicotine as adolescents

Abstract Objective: Twenty percent of adolescents between 12 and 18 years old are regular smokers. Recently developed animal models demonstrate that adolescent nicotine exposure produces behavioral and electrophysiological changes, which persist into adulthood. The purpose of this study was to further define the behavioral effects of nicotine exposure during adolescence. Methods: Male 31–36-day-old adolescent rats were administered 5.0 mg/kg/day nicotine using transdermal Nicoderm CQ patches (SmithKline Beecham). During nicotine exposure, motor activity was assessed. Behavior in both standard open field and modified open field was examined 2–3 weeks after exposure ended. Results: Nicotine exposure significantly enhanced motor activity in nicotine-exposed rats compared with controls, demonstrating the acute stimulatory effects of transdermal nicotine. Two to three weeks after nicotine exposure ended, significantly lower levels of exploratory activity were observed relative to controls in the standard open field. Rats exposed to nicotine during adolescence also retreated to the perimeter of the open field more quickly than control rats. In a modified open field, nicotine exposure reduced approaches to food, contact with food and food intake. Conclusions: Taken together, these data suggest that adolescent nicotine exposure may induce an anxiogenic profile, which persists beyond acute nicotine withdrawal. Given the hypothesized role of stress and anxiety in the maintenance of smoking, it could be speculated that anxiety associated with smoking abstinence may play an important role in continued adolescent tobacco use.
The jaundiced heart

Patients with obstructive jaundice are susceptible to postoperative shock and kidney failure. The cause of these potentially fatal complications has not been fully clarified. The present study was designed to assess the role of myocardial dysfunction in the hemodynamic disturbance of obstructive jaundice. We studied the effect of isolated cholemia on left ventricular performance in five conscious dogs before and 2 weeks after choledochocaval anastomosis by using measurements of systolic time intervals (STIs) and maximal dp/dt. Mean left ventricular ejection time (LVET) decreased after cholemia from 159 ± 2.8 msec to 139 ± 2.6 msec (p < 0.005), while mean preejection period (PEP) and mean PEP/LVET were increased from 41 ± 8.5 msec to 87 ± 14 msec (p < 0.05) and from 0.39 ± 0.06 to 0.62 ± 0.1 (p < 0.01), respectively. During cholemia, STIs were unchanged after intravenous administration of ouabain, whereas in the control period, there was shortening of mean PEP from 71 ± 8.8 msec to 58 ± 7.6 msec (p < 0.05) and of Q-S2 from 257 ± 12 msec to 235 ± 14 msec (p < 0.005) in response to ouabain. Maximal dp/dt decreased after choledochocaval anastomosis from 4543 ± 593 mm Hg/sec to 3666 ± 648 Hg/sec (p < 0.025). We conclude that cholemia in the dog is clearly associated with impaired left ventricular performance. The present data also support a previously published in vitro study from our laboratory showing that cholemia blunts the myocardial contractile response to sympathomimetic agents. The cardiodepressor effect of cholemia may explain the increased tendency of patients with obstructive jaundice to postoperative shock and renal failure.
Controllable restructuring of a metal substrate: Tuning the surface morphology of gold

Abstract Organic thin films composed of naphtho[2,3-a]pyrene, a very promising multifunctional polyaromatic hydrocarbon for use in optoelectronic devices, are demonstrated to restructure the pristine Au(111) 22 × √3 surface. The perturbation of the herringbone reconstruction was used to gauge the interaction strength of the organic molecule with the substrate through a series of controlled adsorption and annealing treatments. The overall behavior of the system is interpreted as an interplay between thermodynamic and kinetic factors, dictated by the temperature of the sample and the surface coverage of the molecules. The restructuring mechanism involves the exchange of Au atoms from the herringbone reconstruction to the step edges. Our results reveal that the molecular and substrate equilibrium structure is only achieved after annealing the system to > 470 K. This infers that caution should be taken when organic–metal interfaces are constructed by low or room temperature deposition, as they may not correspond to the equilibrium structures, and therefore, may misrepresent the adlayer structure which exists at the realistic working conditions of devices.
Drainage reversals in Mono Basin during the late Pliocene and Pleistocene

Mono Basin, on the eastern flank of the central Sierra Nevada, is the highest of the large hydrographically closed basins in the Basin and Range province. We use geomorphic features, shoreline deposits, and basalt-filled paleochannels to reconstruct an early to middle Pleistocene record of shorelines and changing spillways of Lake Russell in Mono Basin. During this period of time, Lake Russell repeatedly attained altitudes between 2205 and 2280 m—levels far above the present surface of Mono Lake (∼1950 m) and above its last overflow level (2188 m). The spill point of Lake Russell shifted through time owing to late Tertiary and Quaternary faulting and volcanism. During the early Pleistocene, the lake periodically discharged through the Mount Hicks spillway on the northeastern rim of Mono Basin and flowed northward into the Walker Lake drainage basin via the East Walker River. Paleochannels recording such discharge were incised prior to 1.6 Ma, possibly between 1.6 and 1.3 Ma, and again after 1.3 Ma (ages of basaltic flows that plugged the paleochannels). Faulting in the Adobe Hills on the southeastern margin of the basin eventually lowered the rim in this area to below the altitude of the Mount Hicks spillway. Twice after 0.76 Ma, and possibly as late as after 0.1 Ma, Lake Russell discharged southward through the Adobe Hills spillway into the Owens–Death Valley system of lakes. This study supports a pre- Pleistocene aquatic connection through Mono Basin between the hydrologically distinct Lahontan and Owens–Death Valley systems, as long postulated by biologists, and also confirms a probable link during the Pleistocene for species adapted to travel upstream in fast-flowing water.
On the Boundary of the Union of Planar Convex Sets

Keywords: planar convex sets ; boundaries ; regular and irregular vertices ; arcs ; inequalities Note: Professor Pach's number: [126] Reference DCG-ARTICLE-1999-002doi:10.1007/PL00009424 Record created on 2008-11-14, modified on 2017-05-12
Human olfactory responses to 5α‐androst‐16‐EN‐3‐one— principal component of boar taint

Analysis of the olfactory responses of men and women to a pure sample of 5α-androst-16-en-3-one showed that 7·6% of women were unable to detect the odour compared with 44·3% of men. For subjects able to detect the odour, there was a highly significant difference between sexes in the hedonic scores, but not in the individual threshold values. Women found the odour significantly more unpleasant than did men, and the relevance of this result to the meat industry is discussed.
Responsible Mothers and Normal Children: Eugenics, Nationalism, and Welfare in Post-revolutionary Mexico, 1920–1940

This article examines the emergence of the eugenics movement in Mexico during the 1920s and 1930s and explores the ways in which eugenicists and physicians participated in the creation of a new paternal order focused on motherhood, sexuality, and child welfare. I analyze this transformation as part of a broader process of medicalization and state expansion that recast understandings of reproduction, heredity, childhood, and the female body during the post-revolutionary period. I argue that eugenics, and the related puericulture movement, played a critical role in the emergence of novel forms of governmentality, the nationalization of women, and the neutralization of anterior forms of patriarchy in modern Mexico. The article contributes to a growing body of scholarship on the meaning of motherhood, the standardization of elementary school education, and the formation of welfare states in Latin America.
Interactive wavelet-based 2D and 3D image compression

We have developed a software module which performs 2-D and 3-D image compression based on discrete wavelet transform/subband coding techniques. The software allows the user to interactively determine the tradeoff between compression ratio and fidelity (by viewing the results) and to interactively define specific regions of the image--of any size and shape--that are to be preserved with full fidelity while the rest of the image is compressed (again, viewing the results). The compression achieved is superior to the JPEG standard algorithm. We present sample results on a variety of medical images and direct comparisons with JPEG results. We also show examples of the improvements gained by true 3-D compression of a 3-D image (as opposed to 2-D compression of each slice), discuss human visual system response issues, and describe extensions of the current approach to still more efficient compression schemes.
Cueing as a method effect in studies on recreation choice

Abstract Multiattribute theory is an important conceptual framework for assessing recreation choice. Methods of assessing attribute importance, varying in the amount of cueing they provide, can affect study results through context effects, attribute omission‐inclusion effects, and group rating effects. Attribute omission‐inclusion effects occur when important attributes are omitted or unimportant attributes are included on a list. Context effects may result when attributes are evaluated in the context of different sets. Group rating effects occur when respondents rate attributes that may or may not be salient to their decision. Three commonly used strategies of generating attributes—labeled the researcher‐generated, the modal salient beliefs, and the idio‐graphic methods, differing in their level of cueing, were compared. Results suggest that when different attribute sets are generated, omission‐inclusion effects can dramatically affect interpretation of findings. Context effects did not appear to influen...
SPECIES OF EIMERIA (APICOMPLEXA: EIMERIIDAE) FROM BATS (CHIROPTERA: VESPERTILIONIDAE) IN CENTRAL WYOMING

Feces from 60 bats representing 5 species and 4 genera collected in central Wyoming in 2001 were examined for the presence of coccidia. Two species of Eimeria were identified in 4 bats representing 2 species of Myotis. All infected animals harbored a single species; there was no multispecies infection. Eimeria catronensis was recovered from 3 little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus), and Eimeria californicensis was identified from a single long-legged myotis (Myotis volans). Both represent new geographic records and the second a new host record. Eimeria catronensis-like oocysts were recovered from a single silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Descriptions and taxonomic summaries for the eimerian species are presented in this study.
The relationship of hydrothermal fluid composition and crustal residence time to maturity of vent fields on the Juan de Fuca Ridge

The 228Ra/226Ra ratio of hydrothermal fluids reflect the residence time of the fluids within the crust as well as the age-since-melting of the basalt with which the fluids interact. We have taken into account the variable 228Ra/226Ra ratio in basalt source rocks to improve the calculation of residence time in four hydrothermal systems on the Juan de Fuca Ridge (JDFR). Apparent large differences in residence time (based on the incorrect assumption that the Ra activity ratios are equal to the parent Th activity ratios in the rock) disappear when the correct rock activity ratios are used. Fluid residence times from the onset of high-temperature (200°C) reaction are ≤3 years which is short compared to the mean life of 228Ra. It thus appears that on the JDFR, variability of the fluid 228Ra/226Ra ratio reflects the basalt age and not significant differences in fluid residence time. Within the present data set, there is an apparent correlation of increasing water/rock ratio with increasing system age, which may reflect the increased importance of faulting, higher permeability, and flow rate with age. However, within the resolution of the method there is no apparent correlation of water/rock ratio with residence time. Finally, the residence times are short relative to hypothesized storage periods for brines within the ocean crust. A potential implication of this result is that postulated, long-lived, high-chlorinity brine reservoirs must be extensively diluted by young, Ra-bearing fluids that have reacted significantly with hot rock.
Resolving power limitations of grating and prism spectrometers.

The fact that gratings give better resolving power than prisms in spectrometry in instances where available source energy or available detector sensitivity, and not diffraction blurring of spectrum details, sets the limitation, is shown to be because of the greater dispersion of gratings. The available energy for a given band pass, Δν0, for either prisms or gratings, is shown to be proportional to the product of efficiency and dispersion. This product is estimated for gratings and prisms. The best grating spacing is indicated to be of the order of one wave-length which, for the visible spectrum, would mean a grating of some 37,400 lines per inch. The importance of obtaining true echelette facets is emphasized and a means of obtaining them is suggested.
Indications for intrathecal therapy in cancer patients

An essential component of cancer treatment and management is effective pain control, which is vital to the preservation of functioning, quality of life, and potentially survival time. Unfortunately, not all patients with chronic cancer-related pain can be controlled with comprehensive medical management and it is important to consider other modalities of treatment, including intrathecal (IT) therapy for these patients. The indications for IT therapy in patients suffering from chronic pain resulting from cancer or the treatment of cancer are explored here. Generally, IT therapy is indicated for patients with greater than 3 months of life expectancy who have continuing neuropathic and/or somatic/visceral pain despite an optimized pharmacologic treatment regimen or who experience intolerable side effects from medications. In these refractory patients, IT therapy can provide targeted, effective analgesia with fewer adverse effects, leading to quality-of-life--enhancing pain relief.
Polyfluorinated Bis-styrylbenzene β-Amyloid Plaque Binding Ligands

β-Amyloid (Aβ) binding affinities and specificities for six bis-styrylbenzenes with multiple magnetically equivalent fluorine atoms in the form of a tetrafluorophenyl core or symmetrical trifluoromethyl and trifluoromethoxy groups were determined by means of fluorescence titrations with amyloid peptide Aβ1-40 and a novel in vitro fluorescence-based assay using APP/PS1 transgenic mouse brain sections. Bis-styrylbenzenes with a tetrafluorophenyl core had increased Aβ binding affinities compared to their monofluorophenyl or phenyl counterparts. Bis-styrylbenzenes with carboxylic acid functional groups had lower Aβ binding affinities than their neutral counterparts. Selected bis-styrylbenzenes were demonstrated to have good blood−brain barrier penetration capabilities. These data extend the SAR of bis-styrylbenzene Aβ binding and provide direction for the development of a noninvasive probe for early detection of Alzheimer's disease using 19F MRI.
Abstract 5135: A chromatin modifier from the 8p11 amplicon in luminal breast cancer

The chromosome 8p11-p12 amplicon is present in 12-15% of breast cancers, resulting in an increase in both copy number and expression of several chromatin modifiers in these tumors, including KAT6A, WHSC1L1, and ASH2L. Previous analyses in SUM52 breast cancer cells showed amplification and over-expression of KAT6A, and subsequent RNAi screening identified KAT6A as a potential driving oncogene. Also known as MYST3, KAT6A is a histone acetyltransferase (HAT) with intrinsic HAT activity towards itself and lysine residues on histone 2B, histone 3, and histone 4. Previously identified as a fusion partner with CREB binding protein (CREBBP) in acute myeloid leukemia, KAT6A is amplified in 8.7% of invasive breast cancers according to the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Knockdown of KAT6A with several shRNAs in SUM52 cells, a luminal breast cancer cell line harboring the 8p11 amplicon, resulted in reduced growth rate compared to non-silencing controls and profound loss of clonogenic capacity both in mono-layer and in soft agar. The normal cell line MCF10A, however, did not exhibit slower growth with knockdown of KAT6A, nor did other breast cancer cell lines without KAT6A amplfied. Interestingly, SUM52 cells with KAT6A knockdown formed fewer mammospheres in culture compared to non-silencing controls, suggesting a possible role for KAT6A in breast cancer stem cell activity and self-renewal. Further analysis of cell surface markers CD24 and CD44 in KAT6A knockdown cells revealed an increase in cells double positive for CD24 and CD44 expression, a characteristic of increased cell differentiation. Previous work from our laboratory identified FGFR2 as a driving oncogene in SUM52 cells. While FGFR inhibition can completely arrest the growth of these cells, it is completely reversible. Thus, exposure of SUM52 cells to FGFR inhibitors does not significantly affect the colony forming ability of the cells. By contrast, the colony forming efficiency of SUM52 KAT6A knockdown cells in the presence of the FGFR inhibitor PD170374 was significantly reduced compared to cells with KAT6A knockdown only. These data suggest that KAT6A may be a potential novel oncogene in breast cancers bearing the 8p11 amplicon and that it interacts with FGFR2 to regulate expression of transformed phenotypes. While there are other putative oncogenes in the amplicon, the identification of KAT6A as a driving oncogene suggests that chromatin-modifying enzymes are a key class of oncogenes in these cancers, and play an important role in the selection of this amplicon in luminal B breast cancers. Citation Format: Brittany Turner Ivey, Steve Guest, Stephen P. Ethier. A chromatin modifier from the 8p11 amplicon in luminal breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5135. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5135
Relaxation of craters produced by ion bombardment on PMMA as a function of temperature

Abstract We report on measurements of relaxation times of craters and rims induced by 20 MeV Au ions bombarding PMMA targets at temperatures near the glass transition. PMMA thin films were bombarded at grazing angles and at low fluences (∼10 9 cm −2 ). The targets were kept at the irradiation temperature for a certain period of time before quenching to room temperature, where imaging of the surface was performed ex situ by scanning force microscopy (SFM). The average dimensions of the craters and rims as a function of annealing time t were extracted from SFM images and fitted to an exponential law [∝ exp(− t / τ )], where τ is identified as a characteristic relaxation time. Values of τ for the hillock tails were around 33 ± 7 s at 94 °C and increased to around 18 h at 76 °C, reflecting the great changes in viscosity near the glass transition temperature of the polymer. Some parts of the rims surrounding the middle of craters and the crater walls relax much more slowly, because of the severe chemical modification of the chains in the core of the impact.
Dopamine Receptors and the Persistent Neurovascular Dysregulation Induced by Methamphetamine Self-Administration in Rats

Recently abstinent methamphetamine (Meth) abusers showed neurovascular dysregulation within the striatum. The factors that contribute to this dysregulation and the persistence of these effects are unclear. The current study addressed these knowledge gaps. First, we evaluated the brains of rats with a history of Meth self-administration following various periods of forced abstinence. Micro-computed tomography revealed a marked reduction in vessel diameter and vascular volume uniquely within the striatum between 1 and 28 days after Meth self-administration. Microvessels showed a greater impairment than larger vessels. Subsequently, we determined that dopamine (DA) D2 receptors regulated Meth-induced striatal vasoconstriction via acute noncontingent administration of Meth. These receptors likely regulated the response to striatal hypoxia, as hypoxia inducible factor 1α was elevated. Acute Meth exposure also increased striatal levels of endothelin receptor A and decreased neuronal nitric oxide synthase. Collectively, the data provide novel evidence that Meth-induced striatal neurovascular dysregulation involves DA receptor signaling that results in vasoconstriction via endothelin receptor A and nitric oxide signaling. As these effects can lead to hypoxia and trigger neuronal damage, these findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the selective striatal toxicity observed in the brains of Meth-abusing humans.
The lack of uniformity in statistical audit sampling terminology

Abstract There is currently no standard terminology in statistical audit sampling that is commonly accepted and used in all auditing textbooks. As a result, students and professionals are faced with the frustrating and arduous task of learning new symbols and terms when attending advanced auditing classes and continuing professional education courses and the public accounting profession has difficulty in testing adequately CPA candidates' proficiency in the statistical sampling area. This article examines the extent of the problem of lack of uniformity and suggests a possible solution.
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and basic fibroblast growth factor differentially inhibit the insulin-like growth factor-I induced expression of myogenin in C2C12 myoblasts.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a role in several disease states such as sepsis, cachexia, and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. TNF-alpha interferes with insulin signaling and inhibits differentiation-specific gene expression in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. We have examined the mechanisms by which TNF-alpha, in comparison to basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), inhibits the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I)-induced differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts. Adhesion of quiescent, suspended myoblasts to collagen in high concentrations of IGF-I (10 nM) induced these cells to proliferate during the initial 24 h postplating and in so doing transiently inhibited the expression of myogenin, an essential transcription factor controlling myoblast differentiation. Low doses of IGF-I (1 nM) were minimally mitogenic and enhanced muscle-specific gene expression. Quiescent myoblasts treated with bFGF in combination with IGF-I did not express myogenin, but expressed proliferating cell nuclear antigen and underwent DNA synthesis. In contrast, TNF-alpha in the presence or absence of 1 nM IGF-I, did not stimulate DNA synthesis in myoblasts. However, TNF-alpha inhibited myogenin mRNA and protein expression. Expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 correlated with myogenin expression and myoblast differentiation, but not with growth arrest. These results indicate that both TNF-alpha and bFGF inhibit myogenin expression but differentially influence myoblast proliferation.
Swept regions and surfaces: Modeling and volumetric properties

We consider ''swept regions'' @W and ''swept hypersurfaces'' B in R^n^+^1 (and especially R^3) which are a disjoint union of subspaces @W"t=@W@?@P"t or B"t=B@?@P"t obtained from a varying family of affine subspaces {@P"t:t@?@C}. We concentrate on the case where @W and B are obtained from a skeletal structure (M,U). This generalizes the Blum medial axis M of a region @W, which consists of the centers of interior spheres tangent to the boundary B at two or more points, with U denoting the vectors from the centers of the spheres to the points of tangency. We extend methods developed for skeletal structures so that they can be deduced from the properties of the individual intersections @W"t or B"t and a relative shape operator S"r"e"l, which we introduce to capture changes relative to the varying family {@P"t}. We use these results to deduce modeling properties of the global B in terms of the individual B"t, and determine volumetric properties of regions @W expressed as global integrals of functions g on @W in terms of iterated integrals over the skeletal structure of @W"t which is then integrated over the parameter space @C.
EFFECTS OF PROCESS PARAMETERS ON CELL DAMAGE IN A 3D CELL PRINTING PROCESS

Various types of bio-fabrication methods have been developed to manufacture products with living cells incorporated via mechanical means. One of fundamental questions that need to be answered is whether cells remain viable and/or functional when subjected to these mechanical disturbances. In this paper, we focus on a 3D cell-printing process via pressure induced deposition. Our experimental studies show that process parameters such as pressure applied and nozzle size affect the cell viability. Given that the cells are suspended in the alginate solution during the printing process, Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis is employed to model the pressure-driven flow system and determine the local environment that the living cells are in under varying process parameters. Effects of obtained wall shear stress and exposure time are examined in terms of cell damage based on the corresponding experimental data.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Electrically controlled anion exchange based on polypyrrole and carbon nanotubes nanocomposite for perchlorate removal.

A simple and highly effective process for perchlorate removal based on electrically switched ion exchange (ESIX) was developed by using polypyrrole (PPy) deposited on high surface area carbon nanot...
Prevention of non-melanoma skin cancer by targeting ultraviolet-B-light signalling

The incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer is rising and primary prevention, including the use of sun screens, has proven inadequate in reducing this incidence. Chemoprevention strategies are therefore needed. Ultraviolet B light can initiate skin-tumour development through DNA damage and mutation in crucial target genes, and can also promote the clonal expansion of initiated cells to give rise to benign skin tumours. Targeting key molecules in the ultraviolet-light signal-transduction pathway is being explored for early chemoprevention of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Giant Cell Carcinoma of the Lung: Clinical and Roentgenographic Manifestations

Giant cell carcinoma of the lung is an unusual form of pulmonary malignancy that follows an extremely aggressive clinical course. We report the clinical and roentgenographic manifestations of 14 patients with pathologically proven giant cell carcinoma of the lung, and compare our data to other reports in the literature. Our patients often presented with or developed constitutional or nonthoracic symptoms. This neoplasm was characterized by early evidence of widespread metastases. However, extension of tumor to the chest wall was not as frequent in our series as has been previously described. The survival from the time of diagnosis was extremely short. Any hope of successful treatment of this neoplasm depends on prompt, early diagnosis. Pulmonary giant cell carcinoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of large, round or oval, sharply outlined peripheral lung masses.
What is water equity? The unfortunate consequences of a global focus on ‘drinking water’

In recent years, ‘equity’ has become a goal of water governance. Yet, the indices and policy guidelines for household water, published by the WHO and UNICEF and adopted globally, focus on either ‘drinking water’ or a limited interpretation of the ‘human right to water’. We examine ideas of equity in household water and argue that the dominant focus on improving the potability of water has muted attention to the wider consideration of domestic water and its impact on livelihoods and poverty. A focus on the many capabilities enabled by domestic water illuminates some of these issues.
Verbal hallucinations in normals—II: Self-reported imagery vividness

Abstract Two studies are reported testing the hypothesis that individuals in the general population who report frequent verbal hallucinations have vivid imagery. In each study, 31 hallucinators and 31 nonhallucinators were selected based on scores from the Verbal Hallucination Questionnaire (Barrett & Etheridge, 1992 Applied Cognitive Psychology, 6, 379–387). In Study 1, subjects completed the Betts QMI Vividness of Imagery Scale. In study 2, each individual completed a Control of Imagery Questionnaire. The results of these two studies suggested that verbal hallucinators have more vivid imagery than nonhallucinators, but not better control of their images. It was suggested that vivid imagery may be one of the factors underlying reports of hallucinations by individuals in the general population.
Immunosuppression and murine polyomavirus infection

Murine polyomavirus (MPYV) infection in mice has many similarities to human infections by BK virus (BKV) and JC virus (JCV) and provides a model for the human infections. MPYV causes acute, inapparent infection with virus appearing in numerous organs, including brain and kidney, and then subsides and becomes latent. At a later time it can be reactivated by corticosteroid treatment or pregnancy (McCance and Mims, 1979, McCance, 1983). To determine the effect of prolonged immunosuppression on virus activity in brain and kidney during acute infection, mice were treated with methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, or prednisone and azathioprine and inoculated with murine polyomavirus. Prednisone/azathioprine and cyclophosphamide caused protracted kidney infection and methotrexate had no effect. In the brain, prednisone/azathioprine and cyclophosphamide had minor effects on virus titers and course of infection, but methotrexate prevented MPYV from appearing in the brain. When mice were immunosuppressed with prednisone/azathioprine one week prior to inoculation, titers were much higher in the kidneys, but virus did not appear in the brain until late in the course of infection.
Newborn brain weight in relation to maturity, sex, and race

Fresh brain weight, gestational age, body weight, sex, and race were collected from autopsy records of 782 newborns over a 10-year period. The brain weight of the mature newborn does not differ between males and females or between white and black infants. For the premature, however, brain weight is heavier in white males than in black males and in white females than in black females. These differences are similar to those found for adults in our previous studies, and they correspond to differences in gestational age and body weight in the subgroups. The differences in brain weight between races are best explained on the basis of environmental factors.
Characterization of two laccase genes of Gaeumannomyces graminis var. graminis and their differential transcription in melanin mutants and wild type

Recently we cloned and characterized three laccase genes from Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, an important pathogen of wheat. Here we report cloning and characterization of two laccase genes from G. graminis var. graminis, a weak pathogen of rice and turf grasses. LAC1 and LAC2 genes were present in both varieties of the fungus. The genes were 94–95% identical, and intron positions were conserved between the two varieties. Our data demonstrated that laccases might be useful for phylogenetic studies to detect fine differences between G. graminis subspecies, varieties, or strains of the fungus that cannot be detected by traditional sequencing of 18S rRNA genes or ITS regions. We previously characterized two G. graminis var. graminis melanin mutants with altered lytic enzyme secretion patterns. Here we demonstrate altered transcription patterns of laccase genes between the two varieties and between the wild type and melanin mutants of G. graminis var. graminis. Transcription of LAC2 was downregulated in the over-melanized mutant as compared to wild-type G. graminis var. graminis and the unmelanized mutant, whereas transcription of LAC1 in planta was up-regulated in the over-melanized mutant, as compared to the wild type and the unmelanized mutant. In the unmelanized mutant transcription of both genes was similar to that observed in the wild type.
Sensory Discrimination of Fat and Solids-Not-Fat in Milk

Abstract A dual-standard paired-comparison method was used by a highly trained panel to detect differences in fat and in solids-not-fat (SNF). Homogenized milk of desired composition was prepared by special techniques, using heat-treatments below the legal minimum for pasteurization to avoid cooked flavors, and a vacuum treatment to remove volatiles. In milks containing 0, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0% fat at base SNF levels (prepared from nonfat milk solids) of 8.5 and 10.0%, the level of fat and SNF did not influence significantly the detection of added SNF (approximately 0.5% added SNF detected 67% of the time). In specially prepared fluid milk, however, it was slightly easier to detect SNF in skimmilk than in milk containing 2.0 or 3.5% fat. In skimmilks, the level of SNF (8.5 vs. 10.0%) influenced detection of fat, but in whole milk the difference was not significant. Interpolation of the data suggested minimum differences for 67% correct response of 0.3% fat in skimmilk (8.5% SNF), 0.8% in fortified skimmilk (10.0% SNF), and 1.5% in whole milk (8.5 and 10.0% SNF). The data emphasize that in sensory discrimination of concentration differences, SNF are more important than fat. Temperature and order of serving did not influence detection of differences.
Growth and Characterization of GaN Nanowires for Hydrogen Sensors

We report on the growth and characterization of high-quality GaN nanowires for hydrogen sensors. We grew the GaN nanowires by catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using gold thin films as a catalyst on a Si wafer with an insulating SiO2 layer. Structural characterization of the as-grown nanowires by several methods shows that the nanowires are single-crystal wurtzite GaN.␣Photoluminescence measurements under 325 nm excitation show a near-band-edge emission peak around ∼3.4 eV. The hydrogen sensors are fabricated by contacting the as-grown GaN nanowires by source and drain electrodes and coating them with a thin layer of Pd. Hydrogen sensing experiments using the fabricated devices show high sensitivity response (ppm detection limit at room temperature) and excellent recovery. This work opens up the possibility of using high-quality GaN nanowire networks for hydrogen sensing applications.
Automated analysis of CCD recorded nuclear collisions in a streamer chamber

Abstract A series of software algorithms have been created to address the problem of automatic data analysis of digitized streamer chamber pictures obtained with charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras. Methods for track recognition, matching in three CCD camera views, three-dimensional track reconstruction and mass identification have been successfully developed and tested. The algorithms were based upon the design criteria of minimal complexity and maximum reliability. These analysis techniques have been applied to pictures of intermediate energy La + La collisions produced at the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory Streamer Chamber Facility. The present results indicate that such algorithms hold the promise of eliminating the standard, labor intensive, manual scanning of pictures presently required for film analysis.
Pezdek, K., & Banks, W. P. (Eds.) (1996). The Recovered Memory/False Memory Debate. San Diego: Academic Press., xv + 394, $49.95 (Cloth)

(1997). Pezdek, K., & Banks, W. P. (Eds.) (1996). The Recovered Memory/False Memory Debate. San Diego: Academic Press., xv + 394, $49.95 (Cloth) American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis: Vol. 40, No. 1, pp. 389-392.
The correction of low intensity luminance functions for the Purkinje effect.

Under certain conditions, studies on visual thresholds as a function of luminance have indicated that the transition from cone to rod function occurs within a narrow range of luminances. This has suggested the possibility of establishing a “rod luminance scale” for lower intensities. Based on standard photopic and scotopic luminosity data, a correction curve for translating from cone to rod luminance specification has been calculated. This curve emphasizes the factors involved, but when applied to empirical data leaves residual discrepancies between rod functions determined at different wavelengths. An empirical determination of correction factors permits rectification of the luminance scale, except for a narrow transition region for each wavelength.
The Changing Face of the California Presidency

Descriptive research on California community colleges indicates that women and minorities have been underrepresented in the presidency (Winter, 1964). The research described in this report investig...
Quality of life assessment in nonmelanoma cervicofacial skin cancer.

Objectives/Hypothesis: Health-related quality of life (QOL) assessment of patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer is poorly understood. The objectives of the study were to determine the general QOL of patients with cervicofacial skin cancer and to identify patient, clinical, and preventive behavior variables associated with patients' QOL. Study Design: Cross-sectional study of 121 consecutive patients (65 female and 56 male patients) presenting to a dermatological Mohs surgery clinic with nonmelanoma skin cancer of the head and neck. Methods: Quality of life assessment was performed before counseling or treatment. Measures included the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36-item Health Survey (SF-36) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G). Results: Both instruments demonstrated good internal consistency as measured by Cronbach's alpha (SF-36, a = 0.45-0.91; FACT-G, a = 0.61-0.90). The SF-36 scores were similar to historical norms. Bivariate analysis indicated significant correlation coefficients between QOL and patients' coexisting illnesses and medical risk factors. Sun-protective behaviors were associated with better QOL. The relationship appeared to be minimally influenced by patients' sociodemographic characteristics and disease-related variables (size, location, extent). Conclusions: Sun-protective behaviors were positively associated with certain QOL subscale scores in the population in the study. General QOL instruments demonstrated minimal impact of nonmelanoma skin cancer on patients at initial diagnosis. However, general measures may not be sensitive to the impact of nonmelanoma skin cancer. The development of a more disease-specific instrument may be necessary to evaluate this disease process.
Congenital Lipoblastomatosis of the Lower Extremity in a Neonate

Lipoblastomatosis is a benign tumor of embryonic fat that is more common in male infants. It occurs more frequently in the soft tissues of the extremities. The diagnosis is made by biopsy, which shows globules of lipocytes and lipoblasts mixed with spindled and myxoid cells. MRI demonstrates fat infiltrating fascia and muscle. The infant described had clinical, histologic, and radiologic findings consistent with this diagnosis. Because of concern that total excision would compromise function, a debulking procedure is planned.
Infection Prevention of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract BACKGROUND: In December 2001, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was identified in an infant in a level-III, 45-bed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Epidemiologic measures to contain this organism will be described. METHODS: Infected and colonized infants were placed on contact precautions (gloves and gowns for all contact), cohorted, and treated with a 1 4 -strength betadine bath and mupirocin for 5 days. Other measures include environmental cleaning, observation of infection control practices, and surveillance cultures of all infants semiweekly. Intermittently, surveillance cultures are performed on healthcare workers (HCWs). Colonized HCWs are treated with mupirocin for 5 days. Genetic typing was performed on all isolates. RESULTS: Through December 2003, 65 infants have been identified with MRSA infection (7) or colonization (58). Infected cases were confined to the first 8 weeks of the initial case. Several different strains of MRSA have been identified by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), but two strains, B1 and A9, are predominant in two separate events. From December 2001 to June 2002, the strain of MRSA was identified as PFGE B1 in 21 infants. Beginning in May 2002, the strain was identified as PFGE A9 in 18 infants. Fourteen HCWs were colonized with MRSA. Two HCWs harbored strain B1, and one HCW harbored strain A9. In subsequent cultures, one HCW had strain B1 for a second time and all other HCWs have been negative for MRSA. CONCLUSIONS: Our epidemiologic findings indicate that we have infant-HCW-infant transmission. While colonization continues, our control measures have prevented infection during the last 23 months.
Gastroesophageal reflux and laryngeal cancer: Causation or association? A critical review

Gastroesophageal reflux disease has been implicated as a causative factor in several laryngeal disorders. Its involvement in laryngeal cancer is of interest not only from a clinicopathologic aspect, but also from a public health perspective. However, despite a number of studies, a causal relationship with laryngeal cancer is uncertain. In this article, we address the current literature in a critical manner to facilitate the understanding of this subject and evaluate the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and laryngeal carcinoma.