cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Methods for in vitro percutaneous absorption studies IV: The flow‐through diffusion cell

A flow-through diffusion cell system for percutaneous absorption studies has been developed. The results of initial studies with a limited number of compounds are reported. The cells were constructed from Teflon and contained a glass window in the bottom for viewing the receptor contents. A flow rate of at least 5 mL/h is required through the receptor (volume, 0.4 mL) for accurate results. The skin permeation of water, cortisone, and benzoic acid was determined in the flow-through cell and a standard static-diffusion cell. The absorption profiles and quantitative values obtained were similar for the two types of cells. The permeation of cortisone and benzoic acid applied in a petrolatum vehicle was determined in vivo in rats and with rat skin in the flow-through and static-diffusion cells. Good agreement was obtained between the results of the in vivo and in vitro procedures. The percutaneous absorption of a hydrophobic compound [3-phenyl-2-propenyl 2-aminobenzoate (cinnamyl anthranilate)] was enhanced with normal saline receptor solution in the flow-through cell when compared with results in the static cell. Maximum in vitro absorption was obtained with either cell using a 6% solution in water of the nonionic surfactant polyethylene glycol 20 oleyl ether (PEG-20 oleyl ether).
North Central Sociological Association Presidential Address: What the World Needs Now: A Model of Rational Altruism

Abstract This address challenges the widely held view that social-economic rationality is rooted in egoistical behavior. Based on an examination of the concept of altruism in sociology, the discussion features the outlines of a formal alternative model of motivation. The model includes altruism as a legitimate “rational choice.”
DEPOSITION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CRYSTALLINE CONDUCTIVE RUO2 THIN FILMS

Highly conductive metal-oxide RuO2 thin films have been successfully grown on yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. Epitaxial growth of RuO2 thin films on YSZ and the atomically sharp interface between the RuO2 and the YSZ substrate are clearly evident from cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy. A diagonal-type epitaxy of RuO2 on YSZ is confirmed from x-ray diffraction measurements. The crystalline RuO2 thin films, deposited at temperatures in the range of 500 °C to 700 °C, have a room-temperature resistivity of 35 ± 2 μω-cm, and the residual resistance ratio (R 300 k/R 4.2 k) is around 5 for the crystalline RuO2 thin films.
Avoiding Moral Dichotomies: Teaching Controversial Topics to Resistant Students.

We argue that students' classroom resistance to the analysis of social inequality and other controversial topics commonly involves their application of norm/other logic to course material. Such logic manifests itself as morally laden dichotomies that identify the norm as superior to all other alternatives. Further, we argue that norm/other dichotomies exist as social constructs that rely on dualism to foster a moral hegemony justifying social inequality. However, as social constructs, norm/other dichotomies are not immutable. Teachers may overcome students' resistance by consciously seeking to make students aware of this logic and its inhibiting influence on the development of sociological understanding. We offer specific lecture topics, in-class exercises, and homework assignments to aid teachers in helping students overcome the limitations inherent in norm/other logic
Neuropilin-1 is differentially expressed in myoepithelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells in preneoplastic and neoplastic human breast: a possible marker for the progression of breast cancer.

The expression and distribution of neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) was examined in the samples of normal human breast tissues and in non-neoplastic and neoplastic areas of breast tissue removed for carcinoma using RT-PCR as well as conventional and tissue microarrays immunohistochemical analyses. The NRP-1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in neoplastic tissues as compared to normal breast samples. Immunohistochemically, the myoepithelial cells of the mammary ducts and lobules display positive reactions for NRP-1, whereas the inner ductal and lobular epithelial cell layers failed to react. The myoepithelial cells of ducts and lobules in both neoplastic and non-neoplastic tissue specimens displayed a stronger positive reaction for NRP-1 than those in the normal breast. A positive reaction for NRP-1, but with a gradual reduction in intensity, was observed in the myoepithelial cells of ducts with atypical epithelial hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The reaction was undetected or minimally detected in the areas of invasive carcinoma. NRP-1 positive immunolabeling was also localized in the vascular smooth muscle cells and in some endothelial cells of the blood vessels in normal, non-neoplastic and neoplastic breast tissue samples. In areas of breast carcinoma, NRP-1 immunolabeling was more prominent in both vascular smooth muscle cells and in some endothelial cells than in similar cells in normal breast. The specificity of the newly developed antibody for NRP-1 was confirmed by in situ hybridization with DIG-labeled PCR generated probe. These results suggest that NRP-1 may be a multiple function protein in human breast and may be involved in the induction of local invasiveness of neoplasia and angiogenesis and have direct relevance to the progression of breast cancer. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
American Trypanosomiasis (Chagas' Disease) -- A Tropical Disease Now in the United States

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas' disease) is a zoonosis caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi1,2. As is typical of tropical diseases, it is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among poor people in developing countries, but health care providers in industrialized nations see it less frequently and know little about it. Chagas' disease is endemic in almost all Latin American countries, including Mexico and the Central American nations. Since the mid-1970s, large numbers of immigrants have entered the United States from regions where Chagas' disease is common, especially Central America. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that many of these people . . .
2013 AGU Named Lecturers and Section and Focus Group Awardees

Each year nearly 25 individuals are chosen to present lectures under the Bowie Lecture Series as well as the Section and Focus Group Named Lecture Series. The Bowie Lecture was inaugurated in 1989 to commemorate the 50th presentation of the William Bowie Medal, which is AGU's highest honor and is named for AGU's first president. Named lectures are designated by sections and focus groups to honor and memorialize distinguished scientists in their respective fields of science. This year's crop of lecturers represents some of the most innovative minds in their fields.
Flow-injection assay of enzyme inhibition in fish using immobilized diamine oxidase

Abstract A flow-injection assay for inhibition of diamine oxidase (DAO) is described. Histamine is decomposed fish is detected and used as the enzyme substrate. Sample extracts are doubly injected; one of the two resulting sample zones is passed through a reactor containing DAO immobilized to Sepharose. Histamine is detected sequentially in both the pristine and enzymatically treated zones. The detection chemistry (kinetics-optimized condensation with phthalic dicarboxaldehyde) allows the selective detection of histamine. Subsequent calibration with histamine standard and comparison of the two peak heights allows generic detection of compounds inhibiting the DAO-mediated conversion of histamine. Preliminary data show that the system can detect inhibitors in extracts of decomposed Mahi-Mahi (associated with a Scombroid poisoning outbreak) and that far lower levels of inhibition are observed in fresh fish. Several known inhibitors and competitive substrates of DAO are also tested.
Life expectancy of children in a persistent vegetative state

The persistent vegetative state (PVS) is a state of wakeful unconsciousness occurring in adults and children. Despite preservation of vegetative functions, PVS patients have a shortened life-span, although accurate information concerning this issue remains limited. The survival of children in PVS was examined to determine whether age, etiology of the vegetative state, or type of residence in which the patient lived affected the estimated survival. The data of 155,851 developmentally disabled California state residents were reviewed using the Client Development Evaluation Report (CDER). Criteria from the CDER were selected to define the vegetative state and included: lack of interaction with peers; absence of auditory, visual, and expressive or receptive language function; no hand or arm use; inability to eat, sit, roll over, or lift head; and no bowel or bladder control. There were 847 patients who met these criteria on the initial and follow-up CDERs. A product limit survival model was used to develop survival curves and to calculate the median survival time for patients grouped by age, etiology, and type of residence. Median survival (yrs) for patients who remained in PVS for the following age groups was: or = 19 yrs: 9.9. Median survival based on etiology varied from 3.0 to 8.6 years; no consistent relationship existed between etiology and duration of survival. Survival (yrs) for patients younger than age 18 years based on type of residence included: own home: 4.5, institutions: 5.2, skilled nursing facility/private hospital: 3.2, and other community care facilities: 3.7.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Sharing Hegemony: The Future of Transatlantic Security

The world today is so focused on Iraq that we have lost focus on the larger picture of global security requirements. The US and Europe must not allow our `cultural' differences to push us into oppo...
The interaction between an oscillating dipole and a metal surface described by a jellium model and the random phase approximation

Abstract The electric field acting on an oscillating dipole located near a metal surface is computed. The latter is described by a jellium model and the random phase approximation. The aim is ascertaining to what extent spatial dispersion and variation of the dielectric properties across the interface modify the image dipole. Implications for surface Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy are discussed.
Upper urinary tract carcinomas: histological types and unusual morphological variants

Abstract Carcinomas of the upper urinary tract are, for the most part, of urothelial type and histologically closely resemble their urinary bladder counterparts. However, unlike urinary bladder carcinomas, a high percentage of these tumours correpond to high-grade carcinomas that usually present in advanced clinical stages at the time of initial diagnosis. Another difference between urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract and their urinary bladder counterparts is their tendency to display unusual morphological appearances. The most important differential diagnosis for these tumours is with secondary infiltration of the renal pelvis by renal cell carcinoma, which can also display a wide variety of unusual morphological appearances. This review will describe the spectrum of histological features that can be displayed by urothelial carcinomas of the upper urinary tract with emphasis on their histological differential diagnosis and the role of special techniques for their evaluation.
Diagnosis of microcomputer systems by triplet assertion

A new technique for diagnosis of microcomputer systems is presented, based on a modified triple voting algorithm to distributively test the system without a central controller. The algorithm is shown to yield a remarkable reduction in diagnosis and reconfiguration time compared with other techniques. The application of this technique to large microcomputer architectures is described and simulation results are presented.
A Parametric Study on the Friction-Induced Vibration of a Brake Model During Decelerated Sliding

In this paper, the friction-induced vibration of a simple disc brake model during decelerated sliding is investigated. A three-degree-of-freedom physical model of a disc brake system is considered; the brake pads are modeled as rigid blocks interacting with a rigid translating strip (rotor) through friction. This model simulates the transient dynamics of the longitudinal motions (in the direction of sliding) of the pads during braking. A Coulomb-type friction model is adopted, with the coefficient of friction approximated by an analytical function of the sliding speed at the rotor-pads interface. The coupled equations of motion for the longitudinal vibrations of the sliding strip and the pads are solved simultaneously. Effects of the friction model and other physical parameters on the transient dynamics and instability of the system are examined through the numerical results. Implication of these results to brake squeal generation is also discussed.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
The Identification of a Novel Endoplasmic Reticulum to Golgi SNARE Complex Used by the Prechylomicron Transport Vesicle

Dietary long chain fatty acids are absorbed in the intestine, esterified to triacylglycerol, and packaged in the unique lipoprotein of the intestine, the chylomicron. The rate-limiting step in the transit of chylomicrons through the enterocyte is the exit of chylomicrons from the endoplasmic reticulum in prechylomicron transport vesicles (PCTV) that transport chylomicrons to the cis-Golgi. Because chylomicrons are 250 nm in average diameter and lipid absorption is intermittent, we postulated that a unique SNARE pairing would be utilized to fuse PCTV with their target membrane, cis-Golgi. PCTV loaded with [3H]triacylglycerol were incubated with cis-Golgi and were separated from the Golgi by a sucrose step gradient. PCTV-chylomicrons acquire apolipoprotein-AI (apoAI) only after fusion with the Golgi. PCTV became isodense with Golgi upon incubation and were considered fused when their cargo chylomicrons acquired apoAI but docked when they did not. PCTV, docked with cis-Golgi, were solubilized in 2% Triton X-100, and proteins were immunoprecipitated using VAMP7 or rBet1 antibodies. In both cases, a 112-kDa complex was identified in nonboiled samples that dissociated upon boiling. The constituents of the complex were VAMP7, syntaxin 5, vti1a, and rBet1. Antibodies to each SNARE component significantly inhibited fusion of PCTV with cis-Golgi. Membrin, Sec22b, and Ykt6 were not found in the 112-kDa complex. We conclude that the PCTV-cis-Golgi SNARE complex is composed of VAMP7, syntaxin 5, Bet1, and vti1a.
Calibration and quality assurance for rounded leaf-end MLC systems

Multileaf collimator (MLC) systems are available on most commercial linear accelerators, and many of these MLC systems utilize a design with rounded leaf ends and linear motion of the leaves. In this kind of system, the agreement between the digital MLC position readouts and the light field or radiation field edges must be achieved with software, since the leaves do not move in a focused motion like that used for most collimator jaw systems. In this work we address a number of the calibration and quality assurance issues associated with the acceptance, commissioning, and routine clinical use of this type of MLC system. These issues are particularly important for MLCs used for various types of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and small, conformal fields. For rounded leaf end MLCs, it is generally not possible to make both the light and radiation field edges agree with the digital readout, so differences between the two kinds of calibrations are illustrated in this work using one vendor's MLC system. It is increasingly critical that the MLC leaf calibration be very consistent with the radiation field edges, so in this work a methodology for performing accurate radiation field size calibration is discussed. A system external to the vendor's MLC control system is used to correct or handle limitations in the MLC control system. When such a system of corrections is utilized, it is found that the MLC radiation field size can be defined with an accuracy of approximately 0.3 mm, much more accurate than most vendor's specifications for MLC accuracy. Quality assurance testing for such a calibration correction system is also demonstrated.
The effects of degree of hepatic or renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of exemestane in postmenopausal women

Two studies were conducted to compare the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of exemestane in postmenopausal subjects with various degrees of impairment of hepatic or renal function with those in healthy postmenopausal subjects. All subjects were postmenopausal females. In study 1, nine subjects had normal hepatic function (Child-Pugh grade A), and nine had moderately (grade B) and eight severely (grade C) impaired hepatic function. In study 2, six subjects had normal renal function, and six moderately (creatinine clearance, CrCL, 30–60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and seven severely (CrCL <29 ml/min per 1.73 m2) impaired renal function. Each subject took a single oral dose of 25 mg exemestane. Samples of plasma (to 168 h after dosing) and urine (to 72 h in study 1, or 96 h in study 2) were taken for pharmacokinetic analysis. Safety and tolerability were assessed by monitoring vital signs, laboratory safety tests, ECG and adverse events. Exposure to exemestane was increased two- to threefold in patients with hepatic impairment. Thus, the geometric mean AUC0–∞ values were 41.71 (90% CI 32.2 to 54.0), 99.02 (76.5 to 128.2) and 118.59 ng·h/ml (90.2 to 156.0) in healthy subjects, and in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, respectively (P<0.01). Cmax also increased twofold. Compared with healthy subjects, patients with hepatic impairment had lower apparent oral clearance and apparent volume of distribution of exemestane. Renal impairment was also associated with two- to threefold increases in AUC0–∞: 34.64 (90% CI 23.9 to 50.2), 94.10 (64.9 to 136.4) and 65.52 ng·h/ml (46.5 to 92.4) in healthy subjects, and in patients with moderate and severe hepatic impairment, respectively (P<0.05). Cmax did not change significantly. Apparent oral clearance was directly correlated with CrCL (r 2=0.43). Exemestane was tolerated well, with no safety concerns. Oral clearance of exemestane was reduced in the presence of significant hepatic or renal disease. However, in view of the relatively large safety margin and the mild nature of the side effects of exemestane, the therapeutic implications of these changes in pharmacokinetics are considered minor and of no clinical significance.
Carcinoid tumors in the breast

Abstract Background Carcinoid tumors in the breast are rare. Most represent metastases from other primary sites, but commonly are mistaken for primary breast lesions. Methods A literature search of the English language found 59 cases of carcinoid tumors in the breast, 21 (36%) of which were metastases. Results We present an additional 3 cases of carcinoid tumors metastatic to the breast and discuss the clinical, radiologic, and pathologic manifestations. Conclusions It is important to differentiate between primary breast carcinoid tumor and metastatic disease to the breast because of differences in treatment. All palpable breast masses and mammographically detected lesions should undergo a biopsy examination. In those patients with a known history of carcinoid tumor, pertinent clinical history, and previous surgical specimens should be reviewed to avoid an unnecessary mastectomy. If there is no history of a prior carcinoid tumor, a thorough work-up to look for an occult primary tumor elsewhere should be performed.
Quantum phase transitions in bilayer SU( N ) antiferromagnets

We present a detailed study of the destruction of SU($N$) magnetic order in square lattice bilayer antiferromagnets using unbiased quantum Monte Carlo numerical simulations and field theoretic techniques. We study phase transitions from an SU($N$) N\'eel state into two distinct quantum disordered ``valence-bond'' phases: a valence-bond liquid (VBL) with no broken symmetries and a lattice-symmetry-breaking valence-bond solid (VBS) state. For finite interlayer coupling, the cancellation of Berry phases between the layers has dramatic consequences on the two phase transitions: the N\'eel-VBS transition is first order for all $N\ensuremath{\ge}5$ accesible in our model, whereas the N\'eel-VBL transition is continuous for $N=2$ and first order for $N\ensuremath{\ge}4$; for $N=3$ the N\'eel-VBL transition show no signs of first-order behavior.
Phenytoin in the treatment of cocaine abuse: A double‐blind study

Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of phenytoin in the treatment of cocaine abuse. Subjects and Methods A 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled outpatient study of phenytoin in the treatment of cocaine abuse was conducted. Sixty cocaine-using subjects were randomly assigned to a daily fixed dose of 300 mg phenytoin or placebo. Forty-four subjects initiated treatment and returned for weekly visits. Primary measures of outcome included weekly quantitative and qualitative cocaine urinalysis, self-reported cocaine use, global functioning and improvement, craving intensity, and subject retention. Results Cocaine use, as measured both by weekly urinalysis and self-report, was significantly lower in the phenytoin group. The phenytoin group was also rated as significantly less impaired and more improved than the placebo group. Craving intensity was lower in the phenytoin group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Among phenytoin subjects, serum phenytoin levels above 6.0 μg/ml were associated with lower rates of positive cocaine urine specimens and longer cocaine-free periods. No differences were observed between groups in study retention. Conclusions These findings suggest that phenytoin may be useful in the treatment of cocaine abuse. Further studies are needed to replicate these findings. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (1996) 59, 458–468; doi:
Two-dimensional magnetic behavior of copper formate tetrahydrate☆

Abstract The experimental paramagnetic susceptibility of Cu(HCOO)2·4H2O is shown to agree well with the high-temperature series expansion of Rushbrooke and Wood for a spin S = 1 2 , two-dimensional Heisenberg antiferromagnet.
Acute inflammation induced by the biopsy of mouse mammary tumors promotes the development of metastasis

Development of metastasis in peripheral tissues is a major problem in the fight to cure breast cancer. Although it is becoming evident that chronic inflammation can contribute to tumor progression and metastasis, the effect of acute inflammation in primary tumor is less known. Using mouse models for breast cancer here we show that biopsy of mammary tumors increases the frequency of lung metastases. This effect is associated with the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the lung and elevated levels of certain cytokines such as IL-6 in the lung airways. Antiinflammatory treatment prior to and after the biopsy reduces the development of metastases triggered by the biopsy. In addition, while lack of IL-6 does not affect primary tumor development, it protects from increasing number of metastases upon biopsy. Thus, our studies show that in addition to chronic inflammation, acute immune response caused by invasive procedures in the primary tumor may cause an increased risk on peripheral metastases, but the risk could be decreased by anti-inflammatory treatments.
Estimation of Potential Health Effects from Acute Exposure to Hydrogen Fluoride Using a “Benchmark Dose” Approach

Communities across the United States are examining the manufacture, use, transport, and storage of hydrogen fluoride (HF) near residential areas as a consequence of a major release of HF in Texas in 1987. Reference exposure levels for routine and accidental HF emissions are calculated using existing animal and human data. The approach employs a log-probit extrpolation of concentration-response data to the 95% lower confidence limit on the toxic concentration producing a benchmark dose' of 1% response (TC[sub 01]), called a practical threshold. Species-specific and chemical-specific adjustment factors are applied to develop exposure levels applicable to the general public. Using this method, the 1-hr reference exposure level to protect the public against any irritation from a routine emission (REL-1) is 0.7 ppm and the level to protect against severe irritation from a once-in-a-lifetime (REL-2) release is 2 ppm. This approach is compared to a modified uncertainty factor' approach.
Update on Varicella Zoster Virus Vasculopathy

Primary infection of humans with varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes varicella (chickenpox), after which the virus becomes latent in cranial nerve ganglia, dorsal root ganglia and autonomic ganglia along the entire neuraxis. As VZV-specific cell-mediated immunity declines in elderly and immunocompromised individuals, VZV reactivates from one or more ganglia and typically causes herpes zoster (shingles). Zoster may also be complicated by VZV vasculopathy due to productive virus infection of the cerebral arteries. In recent decades, the clinical spectrum of VZV vasculopathy has expanded to include not only transient ischemic attacks and ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, but also multifocal VZV vasculopathy, with temporal artery infection mimicking giant cell arteritis, extracranial vasculopathy, aneurysm with and without subarachnoid hemorrhage, arterial dissection and dolichoectasia, ischemic cranial neuropathies, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, spinal cord infarction and peripheral thrombotic disease.
Primary hepatocellular carcinoma in alaskan natives, 1969–1979

The records of 20 Alaskan Native patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC) diagnosed in the II-year period 1969–1979 were reviewed. The annual incidence of PHC was found to be high among Alaskan Native males and especially high among Alaskan Eskimo males (7.6 and 11.2 per 100,000, respectively) in comparison to Greenland and Canadian Eskimos and US white males. Familial and geographic clustering of PHC patients was noted in areas known to be hyperendemic for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A bimodal age distribution among PHC patients occurred with peaks at 15–25 years and 40–65 years. A high prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in serum of patients in the younger age group suggests that HBV infection might be a factor associated with the development of PHC in young Eskimos. PHC in Alaskan Natives is apparently not closely associated with alcoholic cirrhosis.
Diagnostic Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms Identify Pacific Ocean Perch and Delineate Blackspotted and Rougheye Rockfish

Abstract Diagnostic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that delineate Pacific ocean perch Sebastes alutus from other rockfish species and distinguish rougheye rockfish S. aleutianus and blackspotted rockfish S. melanostictus were developed from restriction endonuclease site differences in mitochondrial DNA sequences. The SNP developed for Pacific ocean perch was specific to that species in a panel of adult rockfishes common in Alaskan waters and positively recognized all of 994 adult specimens for reactions in which polymerase chain reaction product was obtained. Species-specific microsatellite alleles (Sma6) and SNPs were concordant in 113 blackspotted and 26 rougheye rockfish. Five additional individuals were heterozygous for the microsatellite alleles and are presumably hybrids. These SNP markers, which are substantially faster to assay and much less labor-intensive than restriction site analyses, can be used to identify individuals of any life stage during abundance surveys and provide necessary s...
Religion and women's sex role traditionalism

Abstract The relationship between religion and sex role orientations is examined in a 1964 NORC sample of white, married college graduate women. The analysis finds substantial differences among religious groups. Baptists, Catholics, and fundamentalist Protestants have the most traditional sex role attitudes, followed by mainline Protestants, Jews, and religious “nones.” These differences are not explained by controls for social characteristics or religious involvement. It is argued that many of these differences would still exist in a contemporary, more representative sample. Some alternative explanations of the findings are discussed.
New small-cavity cryptand chromoionophores for complexation of lithium and sodium ions

Two new chromoionophores based on small-cavity cryptands with inward-facing phenolic groups have been synthesized. Both compounds incorporate a diaza-12-crown-4 moiety and bear ap-nitrophenylazo chromogenic group attached to the cryptand phenol framework,para to the phenolic group. Chromogenic crytand3 exhibits selectivity for Li+ ions in the extraction mode but shows very little cation response in homogeneous aqueous media. A larger analog, chromogenic cryptand4, acts as a sodium scavenger and cannot be obtained in a sodium-free form.
Effect of phytochemicals on the mutagenicity of the tobacco-specific nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA1535

Five phytochemicals with potential chemopreventive activity were tested to determine their antimutagenic effects toward the tobacco-specific nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA1535. NNK at a concentration of 80 mM was metabolically activated by hamster liver microsomes. Three phytochemicals; capsaicin, diallyl sulphide and silymarin, exhibited antimutagenic activity toward NNK in a dose-dependent manner. At the highest nontoxic concentration tested (0.5 mmole/plate), the inhibitory effect of capsaicin, diallyl sulphide and silymarin was 85%, 23% and 48%, respectively. D-limonene and tannic acid were also tested but did not show antimutagenic activity toward NNK in TA1535. These results suggest that capsaicin, diallyl sulphide and silymarin inhibited the activation of NNK and indicate that further studies of the efficacy of these phytochemicals in the chemoprevention of NNK-induced carcinogenesis are warranted.
The Relationship Between Health Risk Attitudes and Behaviors and Parental Presence

The purpose of this study was to assess whether an association exists between a student's attitudes and behaviors about selected health risks, such as weight and smoking behavior, and the presence or absence of one or both parents. Data were collected from 5,411 central Illinois school-age youth in grades 7-12. Physical measurements were taken on all students. Also, a variety of attitudinal, behavioral and behavioral intention questions relative to risk factors including smoking and weight were developed. Comparisons for these areas were made between students identified as having both parents versus those having none or one parent. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS). Both a descriptive and chi-square statistical analysis were utilized. Results indicated that students with none or one parent report significantly higher health risk behaviors than students with both parents. Students with none or one parent reported being more overweight and having a significantly higher smoking rate. The students also reported significantly greater unfavorable attitudes about smoking and weight. While these findings do not imply a cause and effect relationship, it does appear that the students missing one or both parents are at much higher risk than students with both parents. This knowledge can be useful to those involved in intervention efforts. Identifying students at risk allows educators to focus their efforts on such groups. Further implications of the specific findings of this study are discussed.
Geography of grassland ecosystems

Grasses and grasslands occur on all continents, from the equator to the poles, and. together with the grazing animals that coevolved with diem constitute the world's major food resources. 'Mankind has depended upon them for his existence ever since our remote ancestors ventured onto the savannas and began a new mode of existence (Stcbbim, 1981). Grasses seem to have emerged during the late Creta-ceous. and by early Miocene the grasslands probably assumed a prominent place in the earth's vegetation (de Wet. 1981). Within the last few thousand years, man has helped their spread to a very large extent, and today almost 25 per cent of the world's plant cover is composed of grasslands (Barnard, 1969); however, in recent years extensive areas of natural grasslands have been ploughed for raising crops. The literature on the grasslands is truly voluminous but conspicuously uneven across the continents. It is beyond the scope of this paper to review all the litera-ture. and it is also not possible to describe the grassland types and their distribution in detail. Our objective here is to collate the information on the origin of grasslands in different parts of the world and to present a general picture of the major grass-lands on each continent.
Parameter estimation in bilinear systems by instrumental variable method

Estimation of parameters in discrete bilinear systems by the use of instrumental variables is considered in this paper. Through a simulation study, it is shown that the method yields superior results compared to earlier methods.
Table of Angles of Incidence of P Waves at Focus, Calculated from 1968 P Tables

This paper is a supplement to the 1968 P tables of Herrin, et al. It contains a table giving the angle of incidence of P waves at the earthquake focus as a function of epicentral distance.
Determination of three-dimensional structure in photon scanning tunnelling microscopy

We present an analytic solution to the problem of determining three-dimensional object structure, described by the spatial dependence of the susceptibility, from data accessible through photon scanning tunnelling microscopy (PSTM) experiments. An analysis is presented of the scattering of evanescent waves with detection of the scattered field by a probe in the near zone of the scatterer. The results provide tomographic imaging capability in PSTM.
The Role of Membrane Carriers in the Regulation of the Free Glucose Pool in Metabolizing Cells

SYNOPSIS. Equations have been derived which relate the intracellular concentration of a metabolized sugar to its extracellular concentration and the kinetic constants for transport and phosphorylation. The equations show that the maximum intracellular, concentration of a metabolized sugar is a constant determined by the kinetic constants for transport and phosphorylation.
EVIDENCE FOR PARTIAL (SUBLATTICE) AMORPHIZATION IN CO(OH)2

Infrared absorption and Raman spectroscopy under pressure document that the O-H bonds of crystalline $\mathrm{Co}(\mathrm{OH}{)}_{2}$ become disordered when the sample is compressed to $11.2(\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3)\mathrm{GPa}$ at room temperature. The disorder is reversible on decompression, but involves only the H sublattice: x-ray diffraction shows that the Co-O sublattice of $\mathrm{Co}(\mathrm{OH}{)}_{2}$ retains long-range order between 0 and 30 GPa. The results document a novel form of pressure-induced disordering, sublattice amorphization, and imply that amorphization transitions can be staged, with the $\mathrm{crystal}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{glass}$ transition being achieved through the successive disordering of sublattices.
Optimized Scheduled Multiple Access Control for Wireless Sensor Networks

We consider wireless sensor networks with multiple sensor modalities that capture data to be transported over multiple frequency channels to potentially multiple gateways. We study a general problem of maximizing a utility function of achievable transmission rates between communicating nodes. Decisions involve routing, transmission scheduling, power control, and channel selection, while constraints include physical communication constraints, interference constraints, and fairness constraints. Due to its structure the formulation grows exponentially with the size of the network. Drawing upon large-scale decomposition ideas in mathematical programming, we develop a cutting-plane algorithm and show that it terminates in a finite number of iterations. Every iteration requires the solution of a subproblem which is NP-hard. To solve the subproblem we i) devise a particular relaxation that is solvable in polynomial time and ii) leverage polynomial-time approximation schemes. A combination of both approaches enables an improved decomposition algorithm which is efficient for solving large problem instances.
Two Sisters with Telangiectasia, Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Neovascularization and Tractional Retinal Detachments: A New Entity?

Two sisters had an unusual constellation of findings, including telangiectases [corrected] involving the face and limbs, unclassifiable spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and tractional retinal detachment preceded by retinal and iris neovascularization. To our knowledge, this combination of defects has not been previously documented in the literature.
Neonatal Pig Pseudo-Islets: A Product of Selective Aggregation

Pseudo-islets hve been formed form single cell preparations of neonatal porcine pancreas by selective aggregation using the gyrotational tissue culture method for 7 days. Small, distinct aggregates present on the second day of culture gradually enlarged by the seventh day and at that time were taken off for assessment of secreting capabilities and cell type identification. Provocative stimulation and immunocytochemical examination confirmed viable, well-preserved pseudo-islets which contain all four islet cell types. Neonatal pig pseudo-islet formation will allow up to pursue the suitability and growth potential of this source of islet tissue under appropriate immunoaltered conditions as xenograft source of future transplantation studies.
The OPAL Phase III microvertex detector

A description of the OPAL Phase III microvertex detector is given. Special emphasis is put on problems that have been encountered in the installation and operation of the different phases of the OPAL microvertex detector leading to the present Phase III detector and their cures. A short description of the new OPAL radiation monitoring and beam dump system is also given.
Infliximab treatment for rheumatic disease: clinical and radiological efficacy

Infliximab is a chimeric anti-tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) monoclonal antibody with high affinity and binding specificity for human TNFα. Results from several well designed, controlled clinical trials show repeated infusions of infliximab with concomitant methotrexate (MTX) treatment can reduce the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This combination of infliximab and MTX also slows the radiological progression of joint damage, decreases functional disability, and improves qualify of life. These remarkably positive results have led to the investigation of infliximab treatment for other rheumatic diseases. Recently, controlled studies have shown treatment with infliximab can benefit patients with active spondyloarthropathy. TNFα has fast become an important therapeutic target in rheumatology.
Higher Order Stability Properties of a 2D Navier Stokes System with an Explicit Boundary Controller

In a previous work, we presented formulae for boundary control laws which stabilized the parabolic profile of an infinite channel flow, linearly unstable for high Reynolds number. Also know as the Poiseuille flow, this problem is frequently cited as a paradigm for transition to turbulence, whose stabilization for arbitrary Reynolds number, without using discretization, had so far been an open problem. L2 stability was proved for the closed loop system. In this work, we extend the stability result to exponential stability in the H1 and H 2 norms, and we state and prove some properties of the stabilizing controller, guaranteeing that the control law is well behaved
Performance properties in thick film silicate dielectric layers using molecular modeling

Molecular modeling was employed to understand various properties found in thick film dielectric layers derived from solution-based sol-gel formulation in order to aid their development. For instance, for formulations used as planarizing layers, it was discovered that during certain process steps ionic components could be introduced which greatly influences the extent of shrinkage by up to 50%, a phenomenon not normally seen in traditional spin-on glasses (SOG). Thermodynamic calculations showed that specific ionic contaminants contribute to the cure state of the material, potentially depolymerizing the material and promoting the formation of structures that are more easily deformed. Volumetric analysis and compaction modeling demonstrated that the high extent of shrinkage is expected, depending upon the final structure of the silicate. Calculation of the relative modulus of the different suspected structures also showed that depolymerized structures contribute to the ease of compaction.
Strengthening of Steel-Concrete Composite Girders using Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers Sheets

The use of advanced composite materials for rehabilitation of deteriorating infrastructure has been embraced worldwide. The conventional techniques for strengthening of substandard bridges are costly, time consuming, and labor intensive. Many new techniques have used the lightweight, high strength, and the corrosion resistance of fiber reinforced polymers ~FRP! laminates for repair and retrofit applications. The load-carrying capacity of a steel-concrete composite girder can be improved significantly by epoxy bonding carbon fiber reinforced polymers ~CFRP! laminates to its tension flange. This paper presents the results of a study on the behavior of steel-concrete composite girders strengthened with CFRP sheets under static loading. A total of three large-scale composite girders made of W355313.6 A36 steel beam and 75-mm thick by 910-mm wide concrete slab were prepared and tested. The thickness of the CFRP sheet was constant and a different number of layers of 1, 3, and 5 were used in the specimens. The test results showed that epoxy-bonded CFRP sheet increased the ultimate load-carrying capacity of steel-concrete composite girders and the behavior can be conservatively predicted by traditional methods.
Stereotactic radiofrequency ablation: a minimally invasive technique for nonpalpable breast cancer in postmenopausal patients.

Abstract Background : The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of nonpalpable breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and report on long-term follow-up with clinical examination and mammography. Methods : Since November 2000, we have performed RFA on stereotactically localized nonpalpable breast cancers (only mammographic densities) in women older than 65 years with other serious health problems. Results : The first patient had the procedure done in the office with sedation and local anesthesia. The radiofrequency probe was inserted by stereotactic localization, and the RFA proceeded for 20min at 75°C. Two weeks later, the lesion was not seen mammographically, but by palpation there was induration at the ablation site. Six weeks later, open excision of the area confirmed a prominent ablation site with no remaining viable tumor cells. The second patient had the same procedure, and has been followed without open biopsy. The third patient had DCIS and the probe arrays were not able to penetrate the lesion. The fourth and fifth patients had light sedation with an intercostal nerve block to eliminate discomfort and this approach was found to be a very effective office procedure. The last two patients' ablation sites were injected with depo-medrol and they were placed on anti-inflammatory therapy to decrease the palpable induration caused by fat necrosis. Conclusion : We found RFA feasible for definitive therapy for nonpalpable breast cancer. If our results are confirmed by larger clinical trials, RFA would eliminate open surgery and decrease the morbidity associated with lumpectomy and radiation.
Nonlinkage of Neurovirulence Exclusively to Viral Hemagglutinin or Neuraminidase in Genetic Recombinants of A/NWS (H0N1) Influenza Virus

Genetic recombination of the neurovirulent A/NWS/cc-p (H0N1) and the non-neurovirulent A/Jap.305/57 (H2N2) influenza viruses in which hemagglutinin and neuraminidase were segregated (H0N2, H2N1) were studied for neurovirulence in mice immunosuppressed with cyclophosphamide (CPA) which permitted full expression of virulence. Both H0N2 and H2N1 recombinants replicated in the brain (in contrast to the H2N2 parent) and both produced lethal effects in CPA-treated animals. Therefore we conclude that A/NWS (H0N1) neurovirulence is not exclusively linked with either the hemagglutinin or the neuraminidase of the virus. The H0N2 and H2N1 recombinants have revealed the existence of two separate attributes of neurovirulence: (i) the capacity of virus to initiate intracerebral infection and (ii) the capacity of infection, once initiated, to produce lethal disease. These studies provide further evidence for the polygenic nature of A/NWS neurovirulence.
Photosynthetic activity of US biomes: responses to the spatial variability and seasonality of precipitation and temperature

We examined the response of the normalized difference vegetation index, integrated over the growing season (gNDVI) to mean precipitation, maximum temperature (Tmax), and minimum temperature (Tmin) over an 11-year period (1990–2000) for six biomes in the conterminous United States. We focused on within- and across-biome variance in longterm average gNDVI, emphasizing the degree to which this variance is explained by spatial gradients in long-term average seasonal climate. Since direct measurements of ecosystem function are unavailable at the spatial and temporal scales studied, we used the satellite-based gNDVI as a proxy for net photosynthetic activity. Forested and nonforested biomes differed sharply in their response to spatial gradients in temperature and precipitation. Gradients in mean spring and fall precipitation totals explained much of the variance in mean annual gNDVI within arid biomes. For forested biomes, mean annual gNDVI was positively associated with mean annual and seasonal Tmin and Tmax. These trends highlight the importance of the seasonal components of precipitation and temperature regimes in controlling productivity, and reflect the influence of these climatic components on water balance and growing-season length. According to the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (2001) increases in temperature minima and fall precipitation have contributed the dominant components of US increases in temperature and precipitation, respectively. Within the range of conditions observed over the study region, our results suggest that these trends have particularly significant consequences for above-ground plant productivity, especially for Grassland, Open Shrubland, and Evergreen Needleleaf Forest. If historical climatic trends and the biotic responses suggested in this analysis continue to hold, we can anticipate further increases in productivity for both forested and nonforested ecoregions in the conterminous US, with associated implications for carbon budgets and woody proliferation.