cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chromogenic Agar Medium for Detection and Isolation of Escherichia coli Serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145 from Fresh Beef and Cattle Feces

Non-O157 Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains are clinically important foodborne pathogens. Unlike E. coli O157:H7, these foodborne pathogens have no unique biochemical characteristics to readily distinguish them from other E. coli strains growing on plating media. In this study, a chromogenic agar medium was developed in order to differentiate among non-O157 STEC strains of serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145 on a single agar medium. The ability of this chromogenic agar medium to select and distinguish among these pathogens is based on a combination of utilization of carbohydrates, β-galactosidase activity, and resistance to selective agents. The agar medium in combination with immunomagnetic separation was evaluated and successfully allowed for the detection and isolation of these six serogroups from artificially contaminated fresh beef. The agar medium in combination with immunomagnetic separation also allowed successful detection and isolation of naturally occurring non-O1...
Bias in human judgement under uncertainty

The claim is frequently made that human judgement and reasoning are vulnerable to cognitive biases. Such biases are assumed to be inherent in that they are attributed to the nature of the mental processes that produce judgement. In this paper, we review the psychological evidence for this claim in the context of the debate concerning human judgemental competence under uncertainty. We consider recent counter-arguments which suggest that the evidence for cognitive biases may be dependent on observations of performance on inappropriate tasks and by comparisons with inappropriate normative standards. We also consider the practical implications for the design of decision support systems.
Measuring Networkwide Traffic Delay in Schedule Optimization for Work-Zone Planning in Urban Networks

In this paper, we develop a mathematical decision model and a solution algorithm to prioritize and schedule work zones in the planning process. The model is designed to measure the mutually interacting traffic impact and delay as a result of work-zone disruptions in the network. Several construction strategies that interest stakeholders are discussed, including daytime and nighttime construction modes, sequencing precedence, and the seasonal variation effect of demand. The method evaluates networkwide traffic delay through a $k$-shortest path algorithm to analyze drivers' behavior of alternative-route selection. A numerical example is analyzed on a real-world network to demonstrate the applicability of the model for a road construction scheduling problem.
The anomalous antimalarial activity of O-methyl camoquin.

The structure of O-methyl 4-(7-chloro-4-quinolylamino)-α-diethylamino-0-cresol (O-methyl Camoquin) has been confirmed, and attention has been called to its apparent anomalous antimalarial activity against trophozoite-induced P. gallinaceum in chicks. Certain considerations suggest that the unexpected antimalarial activity of O-methyl Camoquin may be explained through an in vivo demethylation to the highly effective antimalarial Camoquin.
The fine structure of ependymal processes in the teleost optic tectum.

Ependymal cell processes in the optic tectum of the adult sand bass, Paralabrax nebulifer, extend across the neural tube to the pial surface of the brain and exhibit several unique cytoplasmic features, which readily distinguish these cells from other elements in the brain when examined in the electron microscope. These include large, perpendicularly oriented bundles of filaments cross-striated by a series of irregular membranous structures (“ependymal reticulum”), glycogen granules and dense-core vesicles in the outer portions and lateral protuberances of the main ependymal shaft, large clear vacuoles more numerous near the pial surface, large mitochondria with a distinctive pattern of tubular cristae and a flocculent matrix and fasciae occludentes at sub-pial endfoot contacts. These morphological findings suggest that ependymal cells do not simply constitute a primitive source for new cells or merely serve as structural support, but rather are highly specialized and may display secretory activity.
ATPase Class I Type 8B Member 1 and Protein Kinase C ζ Induce the Expression of the Canalicular Bile Salt Export Pump in Human Hepatocytes

The exact molecular mechanism(s) of the disease that results from defects in the ATPase Class I Type 8B Member 1 gene remains controversial. Prior investigations of human ileum and in intestinal and ovarian cell lines have suggested that familial intrahepatic cholestasis 1 (FIC1) activates the farnesoid X-receptor (FXR) via a pathway involving protein kinase C ζ (PKCζ). Translational investigations of human liver from individuals with FIC1 disease have been confounded by secondary affects of progressive cholestatic liver disease and limited numbers of samples for analysis. These studies, performed in primarily derived human hepatocytes, circumvent this issue. The canalicular bile salt export pump (BSEP) served as a downstream target of FXR. The siRNA-mediated silencing of FIC1 in human hepatocytes led to a reduction in both human BSEP promoter activity and BSEP protein expression, which correlated with a reduction in FXR expression and redistribution of its localization from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. These changes in BSEP expression could be reproduced by altering the expression of PKCζ, with a positive correlation of PKCζ activity and BSEP expression. Overall, these findings support the hypothesis that FIC1 enhances FXR signaling via a PKCζ-dependent signaling pathway.
Pure strategy equilibria in large demographic summary games

Abstract Many economic environments involve interaction between small numbers of large players as well as large numbers of small players whose individual actions are macroscopically negligible even while summary behavior within various demographic groups may impact the entire economy. We examine Nash equilibria of such mixed size, multi-demographic summary games. In particular, we establish existence theorems for equilibria in which small players universally pursue pure strategies, even when large player behavior must be simultaneously considered.
LFA-1-dependent Ca2+ entry following suboptimal T cell receptor triggering proceeds without mobilization of intracellular Ca2+

A surge in cytosolic calcium ion concentration by entry of extracellular Ca2+ is a hallmark of T cell activation. According to store-operated Ca2+ entry mechanism, the Ca2+ entry is preceded by activation of phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1) and the consequent mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. Using membrane vesicles expressing the mouse class I major histocompatibility complex, i.e. Ld plus costimulatory ligands, i.e. B7-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 along with 2C T cell receptor transgenic T cells, we investigated the roles of CD28 and LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1) in the activation of PLC-γ1 and Ca2+ signaling. Both CD28 and LFA-1 made significant and comparable contributions to the activation of PLC-γ1 as gauged by the level of its phosphorylation at tyrosine 783. In contrast, their roles in Ca2+ signaling were quite distinct so that LFA-1/intercellular adhesion molecule-1 interaction exerted a determining role, whereas CD28/B7-1 interaction played only a minimal role. In particular, when the T cells were activated by suboptimal T cell receptor stimulation, LFA-1 played an indispensable role in the Ca2+ signaling. Further experiments using Ca2+-free medium demonstrated that the entry of extracellular Ca2+ was not always accompanied by mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. Thus, intracellular Ca2+ mobilization was hardly detected under the condition that LFA-1 played the indispensable role in the entry of extracellular Ca2+, while a distinct level of intracellular Ca2+ mobilization was readily detected under the condition that LFA-1 played only the supporting role. These results ensure the unique role of LFA-1 in T cell Ca2+ signaling and reveal that LFA-1-dependent Ca2+ entry proceeds via a mechanism separate from store-operated Ca2+ entry.
Preliminary Evaluation of the Hawaii Deep Water Power Cable for Potential of Failure Due to Erosion-Corrosion

A deep sea power cable linking the geothermal fields on the Big Island of Hawaii with the main population center in Honolulu on the island of Oahu is being designed. It will be about 250 km long and deployed at depths of up to 2200 m. These requirements demand significant extensions of current power cable technology. In this paper the potential of premature failure (in less than 30 years) due to the combined actions of erosion and corrosion is assessed. The abrasive or erosive processes become potential problems because much of the ocean bottom over the proposed cable route is covered with abrasive volcanic rocks of geologically recent origin; and because the tidal currents through the deepest channel on the route exert very significant forces on the cable. Laboratory data on abrasion of armor wire and polymeric serving materials by pillow basalt are combined with test data on corrosion of steel in deep ocean seawater to arrive at a series of worst-case estimates for the potential life reduction due to erosion-corrosion. It is shown that failure by this mechanism is a distinct possibility unless proper precautions are taken.
ECG-gated MDCT after aortic and mitral valve surgery.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to review the utility of ECG-gated MDCT in evaluating postsurgical findings in aortic and mitral valves. Normal and pathologic findings after aortic and mitral valve corrective surgery are shown in correlation with the findings of the traditionally used imaging modalities echocardiography and fluoroscopy to assist in accurate noninvasive anatomic and dynamic evaluation of postsurgical valvular abnormalities. CONCLUSION. Because of its superior spatial and adequate temporal resolution, ECG-gated MDCT has emerged as a robust diagnostic tool in the evaluation and treatment of patients with postsurgical valvular abnormalities.
Method for reducing the tangential velocities in aircraft trailing vortices

A method is presented to reduce the tangential velocities in the trailing vortex system shed from an airplane wing. The device employed is a porous section of the wing at the tip which essentially tends to equalize the pressure on the upper and lower surfaces. Experiments were conducted on a full-scale aircraft in flight and vorticity measured by probes devised specifically for this purpose. Results showed significant reduction in tangential velocities close behind the wing and to a lesser degree far downstream. Controllable porosity is suggested as a means of reducing the vortex tangential velocities and subsequent potential induced rolling moment imposed on a following aircraft.
Piezoelectric energy harvesting using a diaphragm structure

Energy harvesting using piezoelectric material is not a new concept, but its generation capability has not been attractive for mass energy generation. For this reason, little research has been done on the topic. Recently, wearable computer concepts, as well as small portable electrical devices, are a few motivations that have ignited the study of piezoelectric energy harvesting again. The theory behind cantilever type piezoelectric elements is well known, but the transverse moving diaphragm elements, which can be used in pressure type energy generation is not yet fully developed. The power generation in a diaphragm depends on several factors. Among them, the thickness of each layer is important. In this paper, two diaphragm structures, unimorph and bi-morph, were used to calculate energy generation with varying thickness ratio using piezoelectric constitutive equation. The results of this analysis are presented with an eye toward guidelines for design of useful energy harvesting structure.
Hearing and vision screening program for school-aged children

Abstract Background Hearing and vision screening programs for school-aged children are common, yet little is known about their impact. Objective To evaluate Michigan's screening program, in which local health department (LHD) staff screen school-aged children using standardized protocols. Methods This project was completed in three phases: interviews with officials and screening technicians from ten LHDs, audit of LHD records regarding outcomes of screening during the 2000–2001 school year, and telephone interviews with randomly selected parents of children with an abnormal screen. Results Variations in LHD program implementation pertained to methods for tracking outcomes, screening of older children, parental notification of screening results, and availability of follow-up hearing clinics. According to LHD records, documentation of follow-up examination after an abnormal screen was low (hearing 27%, vision 25%). In contrast, most parents reported follow-up (74% hearing, 76% vision), and many reported that this resulted in treatment (50% hearing, 74% vision). In logistic regression modeling, the odds of follow-up after hearing or vision screening according to parents was not associated with income, health insurance status, or race/ethnicity. For hearing screening, the odds of follow-up decreased with school grade ( p p =0.05). Conclusions According to parent reports, most children had follow-up after an abnormal screen, and the majority of these children received treatment. Screening school-aged children for sensory impairment appears to be an important public health function.
THE GLUCOSE CONTENT OF THE DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACIDS OF CERTAIN BACTERIOPHAGES

The presence of glucose in the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of the even-numbered bacteriophages of the T series was discovered by Jesaitis and independently by Sinsheimer. This glucose was shown to be associated with the hydroxymethylcytosine (HMC) in these nucleic acids as a glycoside substituent to the hydroxymethyl group (Sinsheimer; Volkin).
P‐135: A High Reflectivity Fluorescent Guest‐Host Polymer Network LC Color Display

We have developed a novel bright reflective color display, which combines the polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC) containing dichroic fluorescent dyes and the ultra-low-power driving technology. The high reflectance, 60% at the maximum, was achieved by enhancement of the external light emission from the dyes due to the light-scattering effect of PNLC.
Expression and functional characterization of two pathogenesis-related protein 10 genes from Zea mays.

Abstract A novel PR10 gene ( ZmPR10.1 ) was isolated from maize and its expression and function were compared with the previous ZmPR10. ZmPR10.1 shares 89.8% and 85.7% identity to ZmPR10 at the nucleotide and amino acid sequence level, respectively. ZmPR10 and ZmPR10.1 were mainly expressed in root tissue with low expression in other tissues. ZmPR10.1 had significantly lower expression than ZmPR10 in all tissues examined. The expression of both ZmPR10 and ZmPR10.1 was induced by most abiotic stresses including SA, CuCl 2 , H 2 O 2 , coldness, darkness and wounding during the 16-h treatments, and biotic stresses such as Erwinia stewartii and Aspergillus flavus infection. However, ZmPR10.1 was induced only 2 HAT and down-regulated thereafter, whereas ZmPR10 remained induced during the 16-h NAA treatment. Also, inoculation with Erwinia chrysanthemi caused about 2-fold induction in ZmPR10.1 expression 60 HAT but not significant changes for ZmPR10 . Both ZmPR10.1 and ZmPR10 showed RNase activity in vitro with an optimal pH and temperature of 6.5 and 55 °C. Their RNase activities were significantly inhibited by low concentrations (1.0 mM) of Cu 2+ , Ag + , Co 2+ , SDS, EDTA or DTT. However, ZmPR10.1 possessed significantly higher (8-fold) specific RNase activity than ZmPR10. Also, ZmPR10.1 showed a stronger inhibition against bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 in vivo and fungus A. flavus in vitro than ZmPR10, indicating that ZmPR10.1 may also play an important role in host plant defense.
Between- and within-person variation in affect and personality over days and years: How basic and applied approaches can inform one another

Distinguishing within-person from between-person variability in personality and well-being constructs is important for understanding their stability and change over varying periods, from moments to decades. Regardless of whether the variation is over days or years (or seconds to decades), it is important for researchers and practitioners alike to comprehend what it means for a person to vary from himself or herself, and what it means for one person to vary from another. The current study gives two examples of within- and between-person. The first example involves two major personality traits, extraversion and neuroticism, over a 12-year longitudinal period. The second example involves negative affect in a one-week daily diary study. Researchers should be aware of the within vs. between distinction because it is at the heart of important theoretical problems in ageing and development. Practitioners should appreciate it because it can distinguish between long-term clinical trends and short-term fluctuations.
Cytoxan as an adjuvant to surgery for lung cancer.

A cooperative clinical trial by 25 Veterans Administration Hospitals to study the possible benefits of administering cytoxan in conjunction with surgical resection for bronchogenic carcinoma is reported. A total of 1008 patients in whom the diagnosis was established only at the time of operation by frozen section and who had surgical excision of the tumor were randomized into the study. Those patients randomized into the treatment group received 6 mg/kg body weight of cytoxan administered into the pleural cavity at the close of operation and the same dosage intravenously on postoperative days 1, 2, 3, and 4. A second course of drug was given in the fifth postoperative week and consisted of 8 mg/kg body weight of cytoxan given intravenously on five successive days. Reported complications and evidence of toxicity, although slightly higher in the treated group of patients, resulted in no significant increase in mortality at either the 30-day or 90-day postoperative period. Long-term survival studies showed no improvement in patients receiving the drug. Even in those patients who received the two full courses of drug as prescribed by the protocol no treatment benefit was apparent. Extensive analysis of the data to detect any possible factors such as cell type or lymph node involvement which may have been influenced by the administration of drug remains to be done. The use of cytoxan in conjunction with surgical excision for lung cancer produces no improvement in long-term survival when employed in the dosage regimen employed in this study.
A model equation for wavepacket solitary waves arising from capillary-gravity flows

A model equation governing the primitive dynamics of wave packets near an extremum of the linear dispersion relation at finite wavenumber is derived. In two spatial dimensions, we include the effects of weak variation of the wave in the direction transverse to the direction of propagation. The resulting equation is contrasted with the Kadomtsev–Petviashvilli and Nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) equations. The model is derived as an approximation to the equations for deep water gravity-capillary waves, but has wider applications. Both line solitary waves and solitary waves which decay in both the transverse and propagating directions—lump solitary waves—are computed. The stability of these waves is investigated and their dynamics are studied via numerical time evolution of the equation.
A SIMPLE STAINING TECHNIQUE FOR ASSESSING FEEDING DAMAGE BY LEPTOGLOSSUS OCCIDENTALIS HEIDEMANN (HEMIPTERA: COREIDAE) ON CONES

Pectinmethylesterase (PME) activity was found in the salivary glands of nymphs and adults of a leaf-footed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann. Puncture wounds in cone scales resulting from PME activity in the saliva of these bugs were seen by staining with a 0.05% aqueous solution of ruthenium red. This staining technique can be used to estimate feeding damage by L . occidentalis on cones of western white pine ( Pinus monticola Dougl.), sugar pine ( P . lambertiana Dougl.), and Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco).
Retroperitoneal hamartoma in a pediatric patient

A 13-year-old boy presented with vague abdominal pain and a palpable mass in the right abdomen. US revealed a large heterogeneous retroperitoneal mass (M), displacing the right kidney superiorly (K) (Fig. 1). Subsequently, a coronal enhanced CT showed a large heterogeneously enhancing mass with internal vessels (arrow) and areas of low attenuation (curved arrow) indicative of adipose tissue (Fig. 2). Also noted is the superiorly displaced right kidney (Fig. 2). Surgical pathology was consistent with a benign hamartoma, consisting of disorganized fatty, vascular, and fibrous components. Genetic analysis revealed a mutation in the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) gene.
A Comparison Of The Merits Of Open-Back, Symmetric Sandwich, And Contoured Back Mirrors As Light-Weighted Optics.

A parametric study of contoured back mirrors, symmetric sandwich mirrors, and open-back mirrors is presented. Each mirror type is examined with regard to self-weight-induced deflection, efficiency, and fabrication constraints. A chart of fabrication and mounting factors as well as stiffness and weight factors is presented for assistance in choosing an appropriate mirror type in a given application.
Reactions of Feldspar and Mica with Water at Low Temperature and Pressure1

Muscovite and K-feldspar (adularia) were dry-ground to — 200/inch particles, which were suspended in water. These suspensions were “titrated” with KCl, and the pH was recorded as a function of KCl concentration and temperature. The results indicate that muscovite and adularia react with water to produce a surface film in which H+ has displaced K+. The “titration” curves show some characteristics attributable to exchange reactions, others apparently related to equilibria among solids of fixed composition. Maximum release of K+ from adularia by reaction with water is much greater than that from mica. The interpretation is made that the first result of reaction of mica and adularia with water is a surface layer that grades from an outer portion that is structurally disrupted to an inner portion that retains the original silicate structure but with H+ substituted for K+. Addition of K+ as KCl to the suspending solution displaces H+ from the disrupted zone, but all H+ originally taken up by the solids was not returned to the solution by concentrations of KCl up to 1.0 M. Experiments were of a few hours duration; work by others has shown that the disrupted zone releases appreciable concentrations of silica and alumina to solution over longer time intervals. These hydrolysis experiments indicate that at 25°C an H-feldspar or H-mica structure is favored over a K-feldspar or K-mica structure except in solutions in which the ratio of aK+ aH+ exceeds 109–10 or 107–8 respectively. These ratios decrease in the temperature range 25-65°C by a factor of about 1000.7. These results, where considered in relation to the observed behavior of feldspar and mica under weathering conditions, indicate that the major energy change for the reactions, $$2\,mica + 5{H_2}O = \,3\,kaolin + \,2{K^ + }\, + \,2O{H^ - }$$ $$3K - feldspar + 2{H_2}O = \,K - mica + 6quartz + \,2O{H^ - }$$ can be considered to result from H+-K+ exchange, and that the energy contribution from other changes is small.
Bachelorhood and Late Marriage: An Interactionist Interpretation*

This paper summarizes an exploratory investigation of the interactional careers of forty bachelors (men who had reached the age of 35 without marrying), twenty of whom later married. Depth interviewing was used to collect life history data establishing major career lines of specific heterosexual dyads as well as developments in preceding and paralleling universes of interaction. The findings support the contention that continuing social pressures rather than personal abnormalities of individual bachelors ultimately determine marital careers in that bachelorhood and late marriage are interactional products stemming from differential socialization and situational contingencies.
Feasibility of integrating mental health screening and services into routine elder abuse practice to improve client outcomes

The goal of this pilot program was to test the feasibility of mental health screening among elder abuse victims and of offering those victims a brief psychotherapy for depression and anxiety. Elder abuse victims who sought assistance from a large, urban elder abuse service were screened for depression and anxiety using standardized measures. Clients with clinically significant depression (PHQ-9) or anxiety (GAD-7) were randomized to receive one of three different interventions concurrent with abuse resolution services. Staff were able to screen 315 individuals, with 34% of clients scoring positive for depression or anxiety. Of those with mental health needs, only 15% refused all services. The mental health intervention (PROTECT) was successfully implemented in two different formats with collaboration between staff workers. These findings support both the need for mental health care among elder abuse victims and the feasibility of integrating mental health screening and treatment into routine elder abuse practice.
The reactivity of Cp2V2(CO)5 towards alkynes

Abstract The chemistry of Cp 2 V 2 (CO) 5 (I) with alkynes is reported. In non-coordinating solvents, I reacts with large, electron-poor alkynes to give the cyclobutadiene complexes CpV(CO) 2 (C 4 R 4 ), which are not formed from photolysis of CpV(CO) 4 in the presence of alkyne. Smaller, more basic alkynes give simple monomeric adduct products of the type CpV(CO) 2 (RCCR). This latter product is the only one obtained if coordinating solvents are employed. It is demonstrated that coupling to form the cyclobutadiene ligand occurs on the dimer. The dimeric intermediate, produced at low temperature and observed at low temperature by IR and NMR, is believed to have the formula Cp 2 V 2 (CO) 4 (μ-RCCR) (X). Cp 2 V 2 (CO) 5 is active as a catalyst precursor in the photochemical hydrogenation of diphenyl acetylene to cis -stilbene. The mechanism appears to proceed through a Cp 2 V 2 (CO) 4 (alkyne) intermediate.
The effects of cobalt, acetates, ascorbic acid, and cholesterol on growth and glycoside biosynthesis in digitalis purpurea.

Abstract Various concentrations of cobalt chloride, ascorbic acid, potassium and sodium acetates, and cholesterol were fed to digitalis plants growing in the field and in hydroponic culture solution under controlled greenhouse conditions. Certain inhibitory growth responses are described following the use of the above‐mentioned compounds. Cobalt chloride in the concentration of 10 p. p. m. produced marked inhibition of total glycoside production. Potassium and sodium acetates in concentrations of 0.4 and 0.2 per cent did not produce any significant effects on the biosynthesis of total glycosides. Ascorbic acid in the concentrations of 20 and 40 p. p. m. and cholesterol in concentrations of 0.5 and 2 per cent stimulated glycoside biosynthesis.
Efficacy of benzodiazepines in panic disorder and agoraphobia

Until recently, the benzodiazepines were believed to be ineffective in the treatment of panic disorder, with and without agoraphobic avoidance. Recent trials have shown, however, that panic disorder patients respond to benzodiazepines as well as to tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor antidepressants. Most of the controlled-trial investigations of benzodiazepines in panic disorder patients have evaluated the effects of alprazolam. However, early uncontrolled trials using other benzodiazepines have documented their effectiveness in panic disorder as well. This article reviews the evidence of the efficacy of alprazolam and other benzodiazepines in the treatment of panic disorder and their clinical use.
Development of a theoretical model describing sonoporation activity of cells exposed to ultrasound in the presence of contrast agents.

Sonoporation uses ultrasound, with the aid of ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs), to enhance cell permeabilization, thereby allowing delivery of therapeutic compounds noninvasively into specific target cells. The objective of this study was to determine if a computational model describing shear stress on a cell membrane due to microstreaming would successfully reflect sonoporation activity with respect to the peak rarefactional pressure. The theoretical models were compared to the sonoporation results from Chinese hamster ovary cells using Definity® at 0.9, 3.15, and 5.6 MHz and were found to accurately describe the maximum sonoporation activity, the pressure where a decrease in sonoporation activity occurs, and relative differences between maximum activity and the activity after that decrease. Therefore, the model supports the experimental findings that shear stress on cell membranes secondary to oscillating UCAs results in sonoporation.
Hygrothermal effects of epoxy resin. Part I: the nature of water in epoxy

Abstract This study assesses the nature of sorbed water and the related hygrothermal effects in epoxy resins. This paper is the first of a two-paper series. Three epoxy systems, DGEBA+mPDA, TGDDM+DDS, and Fiberite 934, were used in the investigation. Water sorption was achieved by immersing the materials in distilled water at constant temperature of 45°C, 60°C, 75°C and 90°C for 1530 h. Water absorption and desorption profiles were analyzed to determine the diffusion parameters. Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was conducted to determine the mobility of water in epoxy. The study shows that water molecules bind with epoxy resins through hydrogen bonding. Two types of bound water were found in epoxy resins. The binding types are classified as Type I or Type II bonding, depending on difference in the bond complex and activation energy. The activation energy of Type I and Type II bound water is ∼10 and ∼15 kcal/mol, respectively. Type I bonding corresponds to a water molecule which forms a single hydrogen bond with the epoxy resin network. This water molecule possesses a lower activation energy and is easier to remove from the resin. Type II bonding is as a result of a water molecule forming multiple hydrogen bonds with the resin network. This water molecule, therefore, possesses a higher activation energy and is correspondingly harder to remove. Type I bound water is the dominant form of the total amount sorbed water. The amount of Type II bound water depends strongly on the exposure temperature and time. Higher immersion temperature and longer exposure time result in a greater amount of Type II bound water.
Carcinogenicity and DNA adduct formation of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and enantiomers of its metabolite 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol in F-344 rats

4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) is metabolized to enantiomers of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL), found in the urine of virtually all people exposed to tobacco products. We assessed the carcinogenicity in male F-344 rats of (R)-NNAL (5 ppm in drinking water), (S)-NNAL (5 ppm), NNK (5 ppm) and racemic NNAL (10 ppm) and analyzed DNA adduct formation in lung and pancreas of these rats after 10, 30, 50 and 70 weeks of treatment. All test compounds induced a high incidence of lung tumors, both adenomas and carcinomas. NNK and racemic NNAL were most potent; (R)-NNAL and (S)-NNAL had equivalent activity. Metastasis was observed from primary pulmonary carcinomas to the pancreas, particularly in the racemic NNAL group. DNA adducts analyzed were O 2-[4-(3-pyridyl)-4-oxobut-1-yl]thymidine (O 2-POB-dThd), 7-[4-(3-pyridyl)-4-oxobut-1-yl]guanine(7-POB-Gua),O 6-[4-(3-pyridyl)-4-oxobut-1-yl]deoxyguanosine(O 6-POB-dGuo),the 4-(3-pyridyl)-4-hydroxybut-1-yl(PHB)adductsO 2-PHB-dThd and 7-PHB-Gua, O 6-methylguanine (O 6-Me-Gua) and 4-hydroxy-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (HPB)-releasing adducts. Adduct levels significantly decreased with time in the lungs of rats treated with NNK. Pulmonary POB-DNA adducts and O 6-Me-Gua were similar in rats treated with NNK and (S)-NNAL; both were significantly greater than in the (R)-NNAL rats. In contrast, pulmonary PHB-DNA adduct levels were greatest in the rats treated with (R)-NNAL. Total pulmonary DNA adduct levels were similar in (S)-NNAL and (R)-NNAL rats. Similar trends were observed for DNA adducts in the pancreas, but adduct levels were significantly lower than in the lung. The results of this study clearly demonstrate the potent pulmonary carcinogenicity of both enantiomers of NNAL in rats and provide important new information regarding DNA damage by these compounds in lung and pancreas.
Interaction of cyclic AMP derivatives with the angiotensin II receptor.

AbstractThe effect of cyclic AMP and of its derivatives was studied on 125I-angiotensin II and 125I- (Sar1, Ala8) -angiotensin II binding to rat adrenal membrane receptors. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP, 8-bro-mo-cyclic AMP and cyclic AMP inhibited both agonist and antagonist binding in a specific and dose-dependent way, with K1 of 1.3 mM, 6.8 mM and about 30 mM, respectively. Scatchard analysis of binding data indicated that the nucleotides interacted directly with the membrane receptor for angiotensin II. These results suggest that cyclic AMP may act extracellularly and affect receptor-mediated events.
Cultural competence among Ontario and Michigan healthcare providers.

Purpose: To examine variables associated with cultural competence among urban, hospital-based healthcare providers in Ontario (Canada) and Michigan (US). Design and Sample: A cross-sectional descriptive design with a convenience sample of hospital-based providers was used. The sample was 145 providers (n=71 Ontario; n=74 Michigan). Methods: Providers completed a survey which included the Cultural Competence Assessment (CCA) instrument. Regression analysis was used to examine associations. Findings: Providers with diversity training and higher levels of educational attainment scored significantly higher on cultural awareness and sensitivity and on cultural competence behaviors. Conclusions: Variables significantly associated with cultural competence included prior training in cultural competency and higher educational attainment among both Ontario and Michigan healthcare providers.
Does Discounting Work in the Lodging Industry

The central intent of this econometric case study analysis is to examine the relationship between discounting room rates and hotel financial performance. The study provides a theoretical framework that investigates the fundamentals of discounting and empirically assesses the efficacy of the discounting process in the lodging industry. The study adopts an error correction model to properly account for the dynamics of the industry. The results indicate that the variables may be modeled as an integrated process and which are linked in the long run and also possess a short-term relationship. The research findings suggest that discounting works both in the short term and the long term only if the discount rate exhibits serial correlation or nonstationary tendencies.
Effects of altrenogest and exogenous gonadotropins on ovarian function and embryo recovery in swine leukocyte antigen inbred miniature swine as influenced by cystic endometrial hyperplasia.

Altrenogest (ALT), a synthetic progestogen, and exogenous gonadotropins were administered to the Swine Leukocyte Antigen (SLA) inbred miniature pig that typically has a reduced ovulation rate and small litter size. In Study 1, 15 adult female pigs were either controls (Group I, n=5), fed 15 mg ALT/day for 14 days (Group II, n=5), or fed ALT and treated with pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin (1200 IU, i.m.) and human chorionic gonadotropin (500 IU, i.m.) 24 h and 104 h, respectively, after ALT withdrawal (Group III, n=5). In Study 2, three groups of pigs (I, n=24; II, n=11; III, n=11) were treated similarly to those in Study 1 except that pigs in Study 2 (Groups II and III) were mated. Ovaries of all animals in both studies were examined laparoscopically or by laparotomy 5-8 days after estrus to assess ovarian activity. The uteri of Group II and III animals in Study 2 were flushed with tissue culture medium, which was evaluated for the presence and quality of embryos. No pig demonstrated estrous behavior during AL T administration. Not all animals demonstrated typical estrous behavior after ALT withdrawal. When the data from both studies were combined, 2 of 16 (12.5%) of group II and 6 of 16 (3 7.5%) of Group III pigs failed to demonstrate standing estrus. Following ALT withdrawal, females in Groups II and III returned to estrus in 5.6 ± 0.3 and 5.8 ± 0.3 days, respectively (p>0.05). Corpora lutea number was increased (p<O.05) by ALT treatment alone (11.4 ± 1.8) compared to controls (6.9 ± 1.3) and was increased (p<0.O1)further by the use of exogenous gonadotropins (22.6 ± 1.9). Normal-appearing morula and blastocysts were recovered from 14 of 22 females. However, cysts were found in the endometrium
Puerto Rican and Irish American Alcohol Consumption: A Comparative Study

This article presents data from a large-scale comparative study of mainland Puerto Rican and Irish American drinking behavior. In general Irish Americans had higher rates of alcohol consumption than Puerto Rican. More specifically, Irish Americans were less likely than Puerto Ricans to be designated either as lifetime or current abstainers. Irish American also reported that they drank more frequently and had been intoxicated more often than Puerto Ricans in the past year. Irish Americans also reported having their initial experience with alcohol at an earlier age than their Puerto Rican counterparts.
Proton Pump Inhibitor Formulary Considerations in the Acutely Ill Part 2: Clinical Efficacy, Safety, and Economics

OBJECTIVETo review, using an evidence-based approach, the clinical efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for treatment of common acid peptic disorders in the acutely ill and provide clinicians with guidance when making hospital formulary decisions with this class of agents.DATA SOURCESMEDLINE (1966–May 2005) and the Cochrane Library databases were searched using the key words proton pump inhibitor, acid suppression, peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, stress ulcer prophylaxis, critical care, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Bibliographies of cited references were reviewed, and a manual search of abstracts from recent gastroenterology, critical care, and surgery scientific meetings was completed.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTIONAll articles identified from the data sources were evaluated, and all information deemed relevant was included for this review.DATA SYNTHESISPPIs have become a mainstay for acute acid suppression in hospitalized patients. Various com...
Observations of nearshore circulation: Alongshore uniformity

[1] Nearshore circulation, observed for 4 months on a 200-m-long stretch of natural beach during the SandyDuck field experiment, is shown to be alongshore uniform. An alongshore momentum balance between (wind and wave) forcing and bottom stress, cross-shore integrated between the shoreline and approximately 4 m water depth, holds on each of five instrumented cross-shore transects (skill ≥ 0.87). The corresponding five best fit drag coefficients are similar, consistent with the assumption that terms in the momentum balance associated with alongshore nonuniformity are negligible. In addition, the alongshore nonuniformity of the circulation and bathymetry were examined at five cross-shore locations. Except near the shoreline, the circulation and bathymetry were rarely strongly alongshore nonuniform, and the circulation nonuniformities were usually no larger than expected from current-meter noise alone. Near the shoreline, the bathymetry was more irregular and the circulation was often detectably nonuniform, although no relationship between bathymetric and circulation nonuniformities was found. The closure of the alongshore momentum balances on cross-shore transects, and the observed alongshore uniformity of the circulation on four of five alongshore transects, demonstrates that the simplified dynamics of alongshore uniform circulation are valid during the experiment.
Behavioural quiescence reduces the penetration and toxicity of exogenous compounds in second-stage juveniles of Heterodera glycines

Summary – Inactivity in nematodes is often correlated with survival of adverse environments. The non-feeding second-stage juvenile (J2) of Heterodera glycines must survive in a soil environment that may contain numerous toxins. In this report, we show that quiescent J2 of H. glycines survived higher concentrations of both ethanol and the plant-derived compound, allyl isothiocyanate, compared with actively moving nematodes. The mechanism for this quiescence-mediated resistance was investigated using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). There was a reduction in the penetration of FITC in quiescent J2 of H. glycines compared with that in actively moving nonfeeding J2. Furthermore, exposure of quiescent nematodes to octopamine, an invertebrate neurotransmitter, induced activity and a subsequent increase in FITC penetration compared with quiescent nematodes exposed to FITC alone. These data demonstrate that behavioural quiescence is correlated with exclusion of the compound from the body of the nematode. Finally, the entry point of FITC into the nematode was examined by the application of a veterinary cyanoacrylate adhesive to occlude either the cephalic or caudal openings of the nematodes. Nematodes glued at the anterior end showed a significant reduction in fluorescence compared with nematodes glued on the posterior end and non-glued nematodes. Thus, the entry of FITC is primarily through openings in the cephalic region. This research is the first report of behavioural quiescence correlated with reduced sensitivity to toxins in a plant-parasitic nematode, and provides insight into how these important organisms cope with stress due to exogenous toxins.
Macromodel for the mechanics of gecko hair adhesion

In this work, we explore the mechanical behavior of gecko hairs by means of macromodels. The macromodel has four spatular hairs operating by magnetic forces instead of van der Waals forces. The purpose of the models is to simulate the mechanics of the actual gecko seta. For additional hair compliance, a two degree of freedom double bent spatular hair geometry is chosen. A mathematical model for the displacement and forces (slide, peel, and pull-off) for the macro scale gecko hairs is presented. Experiments showed good agreement with the model and a directional adhesion effect which could be useful for locomotion.
Rapid screening for 100 basic drugs and metabolites in urine using cation exchange solid-phase extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection

A system involving the combination of cation exchange solid-phase extraction and gradient elution HPLC with diode array detection was developed for the isolation and identification of basic drugs in urine. At least 100 basic drugs commonly encountered in urinary drug screening and many popular illicit drugs could be identified. Detailed study of 30 of these compounds showed that In addition to the procedure's simplicity and convenience, recoveries were close to 100% in most cases. The method was compared with an existing liquid-liquid extraction/capillary gas chromatography procedure and was at least as effective for extracting and identifying basic drugs, and especially effective at extracting problematic compounds including morphine, benzoylecgonine, temazepam, and oxazepam. Additional advantages of solid-phase extraction technology include the elimination of time-consuming shaking and centrifugstion steps, elimination of reusable glassware, and reduced sample-operator contact with potentially infectious samples.
Evaluation of a Pulsed Xenon Ultraviolet Disinfection System for Reduction of Healthcare-Associated Pathogens in Hospital Rooms

OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of a pulsed xenon ultraviolet (PX-UV) disinfection device for reduction in recovery of healthcare-associated pathogens. SETTING Two acute-care hospitals. METHODS We examined the effectiveness of PX-UV for killing of Clostridium difficile spores, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) on glass carriers and evaluated the impact of pathogen concentration, distance from the device, organic load, and shading from the direct field of radiation on killing efficacy. We compared the effectiveness of PX-UV and ultraviolet-C (UV-C) irradiation, each delivered for 10 minutes at 4 feet. In hospital rooms, the frequency of native pathogen contamination on high-touch surfaces was assessed before and after 10 minutes of PX-UV irradiation. RESULTS On carriers, irradiation delivered for 10 minutes at 4 feet from the PX-UV device reduced recovery of C. difficile spores, MRSA, and VRE by 0.55±0.34, 1.85±0.49, and 0.6±0.25 log10 colony-forming units (CFU)/cm2, respectively. Increasing distance from the PX-UV device dramatically reduced killing efficacy, whereas pathogen concentration, organic load, and shading did not. Continuous UV-C achieved significantly greater log10CFU reductions than PX-UV irradiation on glass carriers. On frequently touched surfaces, PX-UV significantly reduced the frequency of positive C. difficile, VRE, and MRSA culture results. CONCLUSIONS The PX-UV device reduced recovery of MRSA, C. difficile, and VRE on glass carriers and on frequently touched surfaces in hospital rooms with a 10-minute UV exposure time. PX-UV was not more effective than continuous UV-C in reducing pathogen recovery on glass slides, suggesting that both forms of UV have some effectiveness at relatively short exposure times.
Guest Editorial: On Technology and English Education

This paper surveys recent trends and issues related to the integration of newer technologies in K-16 English language arts/literacy learning classrooms. The author argues that newer technologies are used too often in English courses as a tool to learn traditional skills and materials, and not often enough for the transformation of individuals and communities. The author suggests that identifying agents that act as inhibitors to such potentially generative outcomes for technology integration is a necessary first step, and then articulates a wide range of questions that the field might address.
A Comparison of Frozen and Paraffin Sections in Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans

BACKGROUND. Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a tumor with a high local reoccurrence rate. Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest cure rate. However, differentiating minimal residual tumor from normal skin can be difficult during Mohs surgery. OBJECTIVE. To clarify the problem of determining when a tumor-free plane had been achieved during Mohs surgery for a DFSP. methods. In two patients with DFSPs, we compared frozen and paraffin-embedded sections extending from tumor to normal skin, using both H&E and CD34 stains. RESULTS. On frozen, but not paraffin-embedded, sections scattered dermal spindle cells were seen in normal skin. CONCLUSIONS. Scattered dermal spindle cells in the dermis of normal skin make it difficult to differentiate minimal residual tumor from normal dermis during Mohs surgery. A biopsy of normal skin can be useful as a control in this setting.