cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiplex real-time PCR assays for detection of eight Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in food samples by melting curve analysis

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are pathogenic strains of E. coli that can cause bloody diarrhea and kidney failure. Seven STEC serogroups, O157, O26, O45, O103, O111, O121 and O145 are responsible for more than 71% of the total infections caused by this group of pathogens. All seven serogroups are currently considered as adulterants in non-intact beef products in the U.S. In this study, two multiplex melt curve real-time PCR assays with internal amplification controls (IACs) were standardized for the detection of eight STEC serogroups. The first multiplex assay targeted E. coli serogroups O145, O121, O104, and O157; while the second set detected E. coli serogroups O26, O45, O103 and O111. The applicability of the assays was tested using 11 different meat and produce samples. For food samples spiked with a cocktail of four STEC serogroups with a combined count of 10 CFU/25 g food, all targets of the multiplex assays were detected after an enrichment period of 6h. The assays also worked efficiently when 325 g of food samples were spiked with 10 CFU of STECs. The assays are not dependent on fluorescent-labeled probes or immunomagnetic beads, and can be used for the detection of eight STEC serogroups in less than 11h. Routine preliminary screening of STECs in food samples is performed by testing for the presence of STEC virulence genes. The assays developed in this study can be useful as a first- or second-tier test for the identification of the eight O serogroup-specific genes in suspected food samples.
Safety of multiple stereotactic radiosurgery treatments for multiple brain lesions.

Background: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a widely used therapy for multiple brain lesions, and studies have clearly established the safety and efficacy of single-dose SRS. However, as patient survival has increased, the recurrence of tumors and the development of metastases to new sites within the brain have made it desirable to repeat treatments over time. The cumulative toxicity of multi-isocenter, multiple treatments has not been well defined. We have retrospectively studied 10 patients who received multiple SRS treatments for multiple brain lesions to assess the cumulative toxicity of these treatments. Methods: In a retrospective review of all patients treated with SRS using the X-knife (Radionics, Burlington, MA) at Westchester Medical Center/New York Medical College between December 1995 and December 2000, 10 patients were identified who received at least two treatments to at least 3 isocenters and had a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. Image fusion technique was used to determine cumulative doses to targeted lesions, whole brain and critical brain structures. Toxicities and complications were identified by chart and radiological review. Results: The average of the maximum doses (cGy) to a point within the whole brain was 2402 (range 1617–3953); to the brainstem, 1059 (range 48–4126); to the right optic nerve, 223 (range 14–1012); to the left optic nerve, 159 (range 17–475); and to the optic chiasm, 219 (range 15–909). There were no focal neurological toxicities, including visual disturbances, cranial nerve palsies, or ataxia in any of the 10 patients. There were also no global toxicities, including cognitive decline or secondary tumors. Only one patient developed seizures that were difficult to control in association with radiation necrosis. Conclusions: Multiple SRS treatments at the cumulative doses used in our study are a safe therapy for patients with multiple brain lesions.
Needs Assessment: The Perspective From the Public Sector

While examining needs is common in many public-sector agencies, questions arise about how it has been carried out and if a focus on deficits (or gaps) is too narrow when not accompanied by the assessment of assets. The authors operate in this chapter as actors in a play. The first author offers a short personal perspective about her long experience in the public sector, with emphasis on Extension and the nature of needs assessment within it. In that discussion are two illuminative historical examples with clear relevance to what we might do today. They demonstrate that linking asset-thinking to such efforts might be a good thing when embarking upon improvement of programs for the public. The second author enters in by amplifying the examination of assets and how they might be linked to the thinking of public-sector assessors. The authors conclude by recommending that such an expansion of the toolkit of needs assessors would be useful.
Buoyancy Effects in Entraining Turbulent Boundary Layers: a Second-Order Closure Study

A second-order modeling technique is used to investigate the structure of turbulent boundary layers under stable, neutral, and unstable conditions. Special attention is paid to the evening transition from a convective to a stable regime of an atmospheric entraining boundary layer capped by an inversion.
Acute renal failure in the newborn

Newborns at risk for acute renal failure require immediate diagnosis and treatment. Supportive care must be provided while the kidney heals and begins functioning again. The critical care nurse plays a vital role in early recognition and treatment of signs and symptoms of acute renal failure. As technology improves, a greater number of acutely ill newborns are surviving. The critical care nurse is managing more neonates with acute renal failure. Expertise in caring for these infants has also improved. Quality nursing care plays a crucial role in preventing complications and improving the prognosis of neonates with renal failure.
Wireless Sensor Networks—Node Localization for Various Industry Problems

Fast and effective monitoring following airborne releases of toxic substances is critical to mitigate risks to threatened population areas. Electrically powered systems in industrial settings require monitoring of emitted electromagnetic fields to determine the status of the equipment and ensure their safe operation. In situations such as these, wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) at fixed predetermined locations provide monitoring to ensure safety. A challenging algorithmic problem is determining the locations to place these WSNs while meeting several criteria: 1) to provide complete coverage of the domain; 2) to create a topology with problem-dependent node densities; and 3) to minimize the number of WSNs. This paper presents a novel approach, advancing front mesh generation with constrained Delaunay triangulation and smoothing (AFECETS) that addresses these criteria. A unique aspect of AFECETS is the ability to determine WSN locations for areas of high interest (hospitals, schools, and high population density areas) that require higher density of nodes for monitoring environmental conditions, a feature that is difficult to find in other research work. The AFECETS algorithm was tested on several arbitrary shaped domains. AFECETS simulation results show that the algorithm provides significant reduction in the number of nodes, in some cases over 40%, compared with an advancing front mesh generation algorithm; maintains and improves optimal spacing between nodes; and produces simulation run times suitable for real-time applications.
Traffic engineering and signaling technologies in photonic-GMPLS-router networks

This paper describes multilayer traffic engineering and signaling technologies in a photonic-GMPLS-router network. Multilayer traffic engineering, which yields the dynamic cooperation of IP and photonic layers, is described to provide IP services cost-effectively. To realize multilayer traffic engineering, we propose the OSPF extension, which advertises both the number of total wavelengths and the number of unreserved wavelengths, and the RSVP-TE extension, which realizes the least number of wavelength conversions. In addition, this paper presents a heuristic-based multilayer topology design scheme that uses IP traffic measurements in a generalized multiprotocol label switch (GMPLS). Our design scheme yields the optical label switch path (OLSP) network topology, i.e. OLSP placement, that minimizes network cost, in response to fluctuations in IP traffic demand. In other words, the OLSP network topology is dynamically reconfigured to match IP traffic demand. Networks are reconfigured by the proposed scheme so as to utilize the network resources cost-effectively.
The Continuing Evolution of U.S. Judgments Recognition Law

The substantive law of judgments recognition in the United States has evolved from federal common law, found in a seminal Supreme Court opinion, to primary reliance on state law in both state and federal courts. While state law often is found in a local version of a uniform act, this has not brought about true uniformity, and significant discrepancies exist among the states. These discrepancies in judgments recognition law, combined with a common policy on the circulation of internal judgments under the United States Constitution’s Full Faith and Credit Clause, have created opportunities for forum shopping and litigation strategies that result in both inequity of result and inefficiency of judicial process. These inefficiencies are fueled by differences regarding (1) substantive rules regarding the recognition of judgments, (2) requirements for personal and quasi in rem jurisdiction when a judgments recognition action is brought (recognition jurisdiction), and (3) the application of the doctrine of forum non conveniens in judgments (and arbitral award) recognition cases. Recent cases demonstrate the need for a return to a single, federal legal framework for the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments. This article reviews the history of U.S. judgments recognition law, summarizes current substantive law on the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments, reviews recent decisions that demonstrate the three specific problem areas, and proposes a coordinated approach using federal substantive law on judgments recognition and state law on related matters in order to eliminate the current problems of non-uniformity and inefficient use of the courts.
The impact of stochastic resource availability on cognitive network performance: modeling and analysis

Cognitive radio networks emerge as a promising solution for overcoming shortage and inefficient use of bandwidth resources by allowing secondary users SUs to access the primary users' PUs channel so long as they do not interfere with them. The dynamical spectrum availability makes SU's packet average delay one of the most important performance measures of a cognitive network. It is important to understand the nature of delay, as well as its dependence on PU behaviors. In this paper, we analytically model and analyze the dynamics of the spectrum availability and their impact on the SU's packet delay. The cognitive network is modeled as a discrete-time queueing system. PU channel occupancy is modeled as a two-state Markov chain. Our contribution in this paper is defining and characterizing the properties of the random process that describes the availability of the opportunistic resources. In addition, we apply the mean residual service time concept to achieve an analytical solution for the queueing delay. Moreover, inspired by the slotted Aloha system, we model the packet service mechanism and determine the manner in which it depends on the resource availability. The delay becomes unbounded if the spectrum availability dynamics are not carefully considered in network design. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A rapid method for the evaluation of the ionic permeabilities across epithelial cell membranes.

Abstract This short note presents a recipe for the calculation of the ionic permeabilities across epithelial cell membranes. The method requires the Goldman–Hodgkin–Katz formalism as well as the consideration of the equivalent electrical circuit for an epithelial cell. The equivalent electrical circuit is solved in terms of the equivalent electromotive forces coupled in series with the ionic resistances of both cell membranes (apical and basolateral). The present procedure is feasible for any leaky epithelial cell membrane with the condition that this membrane (apical or basolateral) does not contain primary or secondary mechanisms for active transport.
The theory of social control: Does it apply to the very young?

This article reports the findings of a replication study of social control theory that used fifth grade students. This sample was the youngest used to test this theory. All four elements of the bond (belief, involvement, commitment, and attachment) were measured with individual items from the Richmond Youth Project and more recent tests of the theory. Outcome measures included both illegal and non-conforming behavior. In general, the social control model was unable to distinguish deliquency very well. Some differences were observed when the model was applied independently to male, female, white, and black youths. Two elements of the theory–attachment and commitment–were most important to the explanation of nonconformity. Belief was significant in several models, but in the opposite direction of that predicted by the theory. These results suggest that the elements of the bond work differently for pre-teens than for their older counterparts. These results also add to the mounting evidence that greater attention to the operational definitions of the elements of the social bond is necessary before the theoretical merits of the social control theory can be ascertained.
Ultrastructural cytopathology of mouse myocardium associated with EMC viral infection.

Abstract Lesions in the mouse myocardium are described which are fairly characteristic of cytopathology caused by direct infection with EMC virus. The lesions consisted of formation of numerous cytoplasmic membrane-bound vesicles and vacuoles. Viral crystals were frequently associated with these lesions in the newborn mouse. Accompanying the lesion was a breakdown of the myofibrils, mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum and transverse tubular system. The absence of these organelles clearly indicates a reduced contractability of the damaged myocytes. Possible factors resulting in membrane proliferation and mechanisms for cell lysis are discussed.
Amphibians provide new insights into taste-bud development

Until recently, the predominant model of taste-bud development was one of neural induction: ingrowing sensory fibers were thought to induce taste-bud differentiation late in embryonic development. Recent experimental studies, however, show that the development of taste buds is independent of their innervation. In amphibian embryos, the ability to generate taste buds is an intrinsic feature of the oropharyngeal epithelium long before the region becomes innervated. These studies indicate that patterning of the oropharyngeal epithelium occurs during gastrulation, and suggest that taste buds or their progenitors play the dominant role in the development of their own innervation.
Fabrication of a mouth exerciser.

Lower member of the device. 1. Use one 12-inch length of wire. Bend a s/4-inch hook for holding the rubber ligature (Fig. la). 2. Extend the wire down vertically from the initial bend lyz inches to the bifurcation at Fig. lb. 3. Extend the h-ire an additional 2 inches downward from the bifurcation. Make a slight outward bend of the wire to form a separation of the 2 vertical sections and then make a right angle bend (Fig. 1~). 4. Form vz of a “horseshoe” If/z inches back from the right angle (Fig. Id). 5. The distance from (c) to (e) or (m) will be 3yz inches (Fig. 1). 6. Form a complete loop at the end of the (e) to form the female part of the hinge (Fig. le). 7. Use the second 12-inch length of wire to form the other half of the louver member following steps 3 through 6. Run the wires parallel to each other at (b) for fi inch to insure adequate strength. 8. Solder additional lengths of wire between (c) and (d) , and (f) and (g) . 9. Solder the second half of the lower member at point (b) (Fig. 1) . Upper member of the device. 1. Use the third piece of 12-inch length of wire.
"Tight control" in geriatrics: the emperor wears a thong.

The deep-seated faith in tight glycemic control for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus shows signs of moderating, especially for elderly adults, but faith in the importance of a glycosylated hemoglobin goal of 7% retains a strong influence over many clinicians. This faith persists despite weak evidence from randomized controlled trials of any meaningful benefit from �tight control� in any patient group, consistent evidence of lack of benefit for many outcomes, and an almost complete lack of evidence about elderly adults or those with extensive vascular disease. Clinicians who care for these vulnerable individuals face a strong public belief in �tight control� and an orchestrated campaign to increase medication use. Although no benefit has been shown in elderly adults, some harms are clear, and others are likely.
Generation of large prismatic dislocation loops at inclusions in crystals

Two mechanisms for the generation of large climb loops at precipitates or inclusions are proposed. Both begin with the nucleation of a small prismatic loop. In one the small loop lies immediately outside the precipitate particle and its plane is perpendicular to the precipitate–matrix interface nearby. The dilations associated with the precipitate and the dislocation loop have the same sign. In the other, the small loop lies either inside the precipitate or in the interface between precipitate and matrix. The dilations associated with the precipitate and dislocation loop have the opposite sign. If conditions are suitable the small prismatic loops may grow by climb until they are much larger than the precipitates or inclusions responsible for them. The final configurations are the same as those observed in gadolinium–gallium garnet and in quenched aluminum–magnesium alloys. The mechanisms indicate that highly stressed precipitates or inclusions aid the precipitation of both vacancies and interstitial atoms. This is so whether the precipitates or inclusions are dilated or compressed by the matrix. Es werden zwei Mechanismen zur Erzeugung groser kletternder Versetzungsringe an Ausscheidungen oder Einschlussen vorgeschlagen. Beide beginnen mit der Keimbildung eines kleinen prismatischen Ringes. In einem Falle befindet sich der kleine Ring unmittelbar auserhalb der Ausscheidung und seine Ebene ist senkrecht zur Grenzflache zwischen Ausscheidung und Matrix. Die mit der Ausscheidung und mit dem Versetzungsring verknupften Dilatationen haben entgegengesetzte Vorzeichen. In dem anderen Falle befindet sich der kleine Ring entweder innerhalb der Ausscheidung oder in der Grenzflache zwischen Ausscheidung und Matrix. Die mit der Ausscheidung und mit dem Versetzungsring verknupften Dilatationen haben entgegengesetzte Vorzeichen. Unter gunstigen Bedingungen konnen die kleinen prismatischen Ringe durch Klettern wachsen bis sie viel groser sind als die Ausscheidungen oder Einschlusse, von welchen sie ausgegangen sind. Die Endkonfigurationen entsprechen den in Gadolinium–Gallium-Garnet und in abgeschreckten Aluminium–Magnesium-Legierungen beobachteten Versetzungsanordnungen. Die Mechanismen zeigen, das Ausscheidungen und Einschlusse unter hohen Spannungen sowohl die Ausscheidung von Leerstellen als auch Zwischengitteratomen erleichtern, unabhangig davon, ob die Ausscheidungen oder Einschlusse von der Matrix gedehnt oder komprimiert werden.
Performance-based tie/fastener inspection technique using the gage restraint measurement system

To improve detection of railroad track defects that cause derailments, the Federal Railroad Administration Office of Research and Development with joint cooperation of the railroad industry developed the Gage Restraint Measurement System (GRMS). This system measures the track's ability to support gage widening forces and marks the locations at risk for derailment. This paper describes the GRMS design, calculated safety indices, and application for use in maintenance planning.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
CPMAS 13C NMR and pyrolysis-GC-MS studies of structure and liquefaction reactions of Montana subbituminous coal

Abstract This paper reports on the application of solid-state CPMAS 13 C NMR and flash pyrolysis-GC-MS for characterization of the macromolecular network of a Montana subbituminous coal and its residues from temperature-programmed and non-programmed liquefaction (TPL and N-PL) at final temperatures ranging from 300 to 425°C in H-donor and non-donor solvents. The combined use of 13 C NMR and Py-GC-MS revealed that this coal contains significant quantities of oxygen-bearing structures, corresponding to about 18 O-bound C per 100 C atoms and one O-bound C per every five to six aromatic C's. The oxygen-bearing components in the coal include catechol-like structures, which seem to disappear from the liquefaction residues above 300°C; carboxyl groups, which almost disappear after 350°C; and phenolic structures, which are most important in the original coal but diminish in concentration with increasing temperature. These results point to the progressive loss of oxygen functional groups and aliphatic-rich species from the macromolecular network of the coal during programmed heat-up under TPL conditions. The higher conversions in TPL runs in H-donor tetralin (relative to the conventional N-PL runs) suggest that the removal of carboxylic and catechol groups from the coal and the capping of the reactive sites by H-transfer from H-donors at low temperatures (≤350°C) have contributed to minimizing the retrogressive crosslinking at higher temperatures. Quantitative calculation of NMR data and mathematical correlation were also attempted in this work. For 24 liquefaction residues derived under significantly different conditions, linear correlations between C-distribution and reaction temperature (≥ 300°C) have been found, which can be expressed by a simple equation, C i = αf i + βT , where f i and C i , represent content of aromatic, aliphatic, or oxygen-bound carbons in the original coal and residue, respectively; T stands for the reaction temperature; α and β are constants.
Nonclassicality of light from a degenerate parametric oscillator

The nonclassical nature of light from a degenerate parametric oscillator is discussed in terms of criteria based on direct photon counting probabilities of light. These criteria do not rely on phase sensitive detection and reveal the nonclassical nature of the field where the conventional criteria based on moments of light intensity (like sub-Poissonian statistics or anti-bunching) fail. We also consider the effect of detector efficiency on the signature of nonclassicality and find that under certain circumstances inefficient detection can enhance nonclassical behavior.
Efimov physics in heteronuclear four-body systems.

We study three- and four-body Efimov physics in a heteronuclear atomic system with three identical heavy bosonic atoms and one light atom. We show that exchange of the light atom between the heavy atoms leads to both three- and four-body features in the low-energy inelastic rate constants that trace to the Efimov effect. Further, the effective interaction generated by this exchange can provide an additional mechanism for control in ultracold experiments. Finally, we find that there is no true four-body Efimov effect---that is, no infinite number of four-body states in the absence of two- and three-body bound states---resolving a decades-long controversy.
Salient factor score validation—A 1972 release cohort

Abstract In October 1973, the United States Board of Parole adopted an actuarial device, termed a “salient factor score”, as a risk assesment aid. This device was constructed and initially validated on a sample of 1970 releases utilizing a two year follow-up period for each case. However, as the utility of a predictive device depends upon its a ability to predict to prospective samples, periodic validation is required. This paper describes the application of the salient factor score to a subsequent validation sample of prisoners released during 1972 and discusses the effects of using various outcome measures.
Intermediary roles and payments for ecosystem services: A typology and program feasibility application in Panama

Abstract Intermediaries in payments for ecosystem services (PES) play diverse roles in facilitating transactions between buyers and sellers. From the literature, we identified major roles including information exchange; program design; networking, representation, and mediation; and administration and project coordination; and we evaluated these roles alongside crosscutting institutional factors of influence, process, and context. We applied this typology to a Western Panama case study informing PES feasibility using semi-structured interviews with 34 intermediary organizations to understand current and potential future PES roles, capacity, and connections. We found broad capacity to perform intermediary roles and ways in which the limitations of one organization (or sector) could be compensated for by another organization (sector) through partnerships. The strongest organization-to-organization connections were found between the civil and public sectors working at the local and regional scales, and between intermediaries overall and “supply-side” landowners. While beneficial, these connections highlight the need to ensure that the interests of weakly connected actors, particularly potential buyers, are adequately represented; furthermore, uncertain central government support may affect program development at the regional scale. Our study advances a more synthetic understanding of the intermediary actor landscape in relation to PES institutional analysis, which can inform future project-specific and theoretical analyses.
The effects of the TRH metabolite cyclo(His-Pro) and its analogs on feeding

Cyclo(His-Pro), or cHP, is a putative metabolite of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and, like TRH, can inhibit food intake but requires higher doses. In attempts to improve the anorectic effects of cHP through modification of its structure, a number of its analogs were synthesized. These analogs or cHP itself were administered to rats either by intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion or systemic injection, and their effects on food intake were measured. None of the synthetic analogs was more potent than cHP, although several analogs demonstrated comparable potencies to the parent compound. Interestingly, one cHP analog reversed the suppressive effect and stimulated feeding. This reversal, as well as the preservation of the anorectic effect by some but not all the analogs, suggests that the cHP effect on feeding does require specific structural features.
Decreased Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Hospitalization of Preterm Infants After Initiation of RSV-IVIG Infusion Program (RIP) † 1268

RIP was initiated in September 1996 for prophylaxis of preterm infants born at or before 34 weeks gestation who were less than 6 months of age, and extended to 24 months for those with active Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia.
Transseptal access in pediatric and congenital electrophysiology procedures: defining risk

Purpose Transseptal puncture (TSP) is commonly used to access the left heart for catheter ablation procedures. The specific complication risk of this procedure has not been determined. This study assesses the risk of TSP using a single standard technique during electrophysiology study (EPS) in pediatrics and congenital heart disease (CHD).
Heavy Metal Determination and Speciation: Anodic Stripping Voltammetry Employing Microelectrodes

Abstract We describe the preparation of mercury microelectrodes for application to speciation studies of heavy metals in natural waters. The mercury electrodes have a radius of 5 μm and are applicable to anodic stripping voltammetry in solutions with or without intentionally added electrolyte. However, naturally occurring salts could be an important interference for ASV measurements in untreated samples. Electrode size has no significant influence on the portion of lead detected when the metal is in equilibrium with humic acid, a naturally occurring complexing agent. However, the electrolyte concentration affects the portion of metal described as electrochemically labile.
Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Binary Systems of Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and Polycaprolactone. Part II: Degradation

Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) hydrogels can be mechanically reinforced by the incorporation of a hydrophobic biodegradable polyester, polycaprolactone (PCL). The influence of PHEMA on the selective degradability of PCL in the modified hydrogels was investigated by hydrolysis, biodegradation and chemical degradation. The swelling of the PHEMA compo nent in hydrophilic reagents provided hydrolytic exposure to PCL domains. In hydrophobic reagents, the PHEMA component acted as a barrier that retarded the diffusion of hydrophobic acid or base into the network.
Luminescence of Meteorites

A LABORATORY investigation of the luminescence spectra of a number of materials, of types which might possibly exist on the lunar surface, is being carried out with the view of permitting comparison with the luminescence spectrum of the Moon itself. We excite the luminescence in vacuum by means of a beam of protons1, usually with an energy of about 40 keV, and record the spectrum of any luminescence emission by means of a photoelectric spectrophotometer2.
The formation of arsenic antisite defects during plastic deformation of GaAs

Abstract The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signal of arsenic antisite defects increases after plastic deformation of GaAs. This has been attributed in the preceeding paper to the formation of only compensating acceptors rather than additional antisites. A critical discussion of this alternative model is presented, taking into account new experimental results.
Computing feasible toolpaths for 5-axis machines

We present several algorithms for computing a feasible toolpath of certain characteristics for sculpting a given surface using a 5-axis numerically controlled (NC) machine. A toolpath specifies the orientations of a cutting tool at each point of a path taken by the tool. When a single toolpath does not exist, we find the minimum number of toolpaths needed by the cutting tool. Previous algorithms are all heuristics with no quality guarantee of a solution and with no analysis of the running time. We obtain optimal solutions and provide time analysis for all our algorithms. We model the problem using a directed, layered graph G (representing the sculpting constraints) such that a feasible toolpath corresponds to a certain path in G. We give efficient methods for several path problems in such graphs (e.g., finding a path in an unweighted or vertex-weighted version of G, computing the minimum number of paths whose union spans all the layers of an edge-weighted G, etc).
The Influence of Changes in Fertility Related Norms on Contraceptive Use in Egypt, 1995–2005

The debate around the relative influence of ideation versus development on fertility reduction has been on-going at least since Cleland & Wilson’s “iconoclastic view” of fertility transition was published in 1987. While there is fairly wide recognition that the diffusion of new behaviors through a community can play an important role in fertility transitions, there is relatively little research on the effect of changes in the normative environment—a predictable consequence of the ideational process—on a woman’s fertility decisions. For the current study, we focus on collective or group norms, which have been defined as “regularities in attitudes and behavior that characterize a social group and differentiate it from other groups.” We infer these regularities in behavior and attitudes by aggregating across individual reports to calculate the objective prevalence of these phenomena within groups. Using multilevel analysis of consecutive 1995, 2000 and 2005 Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS), we test the effect of changes in the norms related to the desire for a large family and the use of family planning at parity 0 or 1 on self-reported contraceptive use among married women in Egypt. The analysis included 2432 married women 15–49 years for the 1995–2000 period and 5285 women for the 2000–2005 period. Norms are defined at the cluster level, which serves as our community-level unit of analysis. After controlling for individual and other community factors, including changes in literacy, we found that women residing in communities where the desire for large families increased from 1995–2000 were more than 70% less likely to use a contraceptive method. While the trend was similar, no such effect of desired family size was observed from 2000–2005. Instead, residence in a community where use of family planning after the first child increased from 2000–2005 resulted in a more than three-fold increase in contraceptive use in 2005. Results indicate that changes in norms measured at the collective level affect individual contraceptive use. Specific attitudinal and behavioral changes that influenced individual action, however, changed over time, consistent with shifts in the emphasis of the national family planning program.
Host Specificity Tests of Coccipolipus epilachnae , a Mite Parasitic on the Mexican Bean Beetle

Tests of the host specificity of Coccipolipus epilachnae Smiley, a mite parasitic on the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis Mulsant, suggested that hosts are limited to the members of the subfamily Epilachninae. Coccinellid species tested that were not suitable hosts included: Chilocorus stigma Say, Coccinella septempunctata L., Cycloneda munda (Say), Hippodamia parenthesis (Say), Hippodamia convergens Guerin-Meneville, Coccinella undecimpunctata L. and Coccinella novemnotata Herbst. C. epilachnae did complete its life cycle on Subcoccinella vigintiquatuorpunctata (L.), another epilachnine.
Thermal expansion of alkali halides at high pressure: NaCl as an example

Thermal defects in ionic materials can have important effects on their thermal expansion at high temperatures. Earlier treatments of thermal expansion generally have neglected or not considered such effects. Here an analytical expression for the thermal defect contribution and its dependence on pressure is derived. We show that such contributions, which are significant at high temperature and atmospheric pressure, become negligible at pressures above approximately 0.25 to 0.35 of the bulk modulus at standard conditions. At very high pressure, based on Birch's (1968) relationship between high and low pressure thermal expansion, and assuming αKTis independent of pressure, NaCl thermal expansion can be calculated within the constraints of a semi-empirical quasi-harmonic perfect crystal model. The calculations are compared with available theoretical and experimental values over an extended temperature/pressure regime. The method should have broad applicability for other ionic crystals.
Confocal laser scanning microscopic examination of transport pathways and barriers of some peptides across the cornea

Abstract Recent advances in optical microscopy involving confocal imaging are now becoming available which dramatically improve resolution, contrast, and rejection of out-of-focus noise as compared to conventional imaging. With this technique, it is possible to optically section thick specimens, allowing interior structures of living specimens that are normally obscured in conventional imaging to be visualized. The unique transparency of the cornea makes microscopic examination by this technique particularly applicable. In the present study, the technique, performed in both light-reflected and fluorescence modes, was used to obtain information about cellular structures, transport pathways and barriers of two peptides, poly- l -lysine and insulin in the cornea. In the light-reflected mode, serial images showing detailed structures of various layers of the cornea including the epithelial surface, wing cells, basal cells, stroma, and endothelium were clearly demonstrated. The transport pathways of fluorescently labeled peptides were studied using the fluorescence mode. The results suggest preferential uptake of polylysine through epithelial surface defects caused by non-uniform shedding of superficial ‘old’ cells and through intercellular spaces of the cornea. In contrast, corneal uptake of insulin was found to occur predominantly via intemalization of the peptide by the surface cells. In both cases, the penetration of these peptides was severely limited to the outermost layer of the corneal epithelium. The results also indicate charge discrimination effects to penetration of negatively charged insulin by the cornea.
Issues in Screening for Glaucoma

Two studies in the current issue present the outcomes of screening programs for identifying persons with glaucoma. One of these attempted to identify glaucoma among first degree relatives in rural ...
Solid-state intermetallic compound layer growth between copper and 95.5Sn-3.9Ag-0.6Cu solder

Long-term, solid-state intermetallic compound (IMC) layer growth was examined in 95.5Sn-3.9Ag-0.6Cu (wt.%)/copper (Cu) couples. Aging temperatures and times ranged from 70°C to 205°C and from 1 day to 400 days, respectively. The IMC layer thicknesses and compositions were compared to those investigated in 96.5Sn-3.5Ag/Cu, 95.5Sn-0.5Ag-4.0Cu/Cu, and 100Sn/Cu couples. The nominal Cu3Sn and Cu6Sn5 stoichiometries were observed. The Cu3Sn layer accounted for 0.4–0.6 of the total IMC layer thickness. The 95.5Sn-3.9Ag-0.6Cu/Cu couples exhibited porosity development at the Cu3Sn/Cu interface and in the Cu3Sn layer as well as localized “plumes” of accelerated Cu3Sn growth into the Cu substrate when aged at 205°C and t>150 days. An excess of 3–5at.%Cu in the near-interface solder field likely contributed to IMC layer growth. The growth kinetics of the IMC layer in 95.5Sn-3.9Ag-0.6Cu/Cu couples were described by the equation x=xo+Atnexp [−ΔH/RT]. The time exponents, n, were 0.56±0.06, 0.54±0.07, and 0.58±0.07 for the Cu3Sn layer, the Cu6Sn5, and the total layer, respectively, indicating a diffusion-based mechanism. The apparent-activation energies (ΔH) were Cu3Sn layer: 50±6 kJ/mol; Cu6Sn5 layer: 44±4 kJ/mol; and total layer: 50±4 kJ/mol, which suggested a fast-diffusion path along grain boundaries. The kinetics of Cu3Sn growth were sensitive to the Pb-free solder composition while those of Cu6Sn5 layer growth were not so.
GTP binding regulatory proteins of adenylate cyclase in Schistosoma mansoni at different stages of development.

Serotonin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in the trematode parasite Schistosoma mansoni increases 40–50-fold during its development from newly transformed schistosomulum to adult. The role of GTP in activation of the enzyme at different stages of development was investigated. Adenylate cyclase can be activated by the non-hydrolyzable GTP analogs 5′-guanylylimidodiphosphate (GppNHp) and guanosine-5′-(3-O-thiotriphosphate) (GTPγS), as well as by sodium fluoride. Activation by GTPγS is competitively antagonized by GTP. Cholera toxin catalyzes the ADP-ribosylation of several proteins in both early schistosomula and adults. Proteins of 93 and 53 kDa are labeled in both stages, but the other proteins labeled appear to be different in the two stages. Adult schistosomes exhibit autoribosylation by cholera toxin in a broad band at 41 kDa, and this is not seen in schistosomula. The effect of cholera toxin on cyclase activity was to reduce activation by serotonin, GTPγS, and fluoride, all agents which act through the GTP binding protein. Cholera toxin treatment also inhibits activation by optimal levels of forskolin, a diterpene that acts at the catalytic subunit. Pertussis toxin had little effect on cyclase activity, although it catalyzed the ADP-ribosylation of a single protein band at 45 kDa in both stages. The results suggest that the GTP binding protein that mediates adenylate cyclase activation by serotonin is somewhat different from Gs in the adrenergic adenylate cyclase system. The pertussis toxin substrate in S. mansoni does not appear to function as Gi. During development the increase in activation of adenylate cyclase by serotonin appears to be due to an increase in all components of the enzyme system.
Fractional quantized Hall effect

This paper gives an overview of experiments on the fractional quantized Hall effect (FQHE). Two recent developments are discussed in some detail. One is the investigation of resistance fluctuations in narrow samples which gives evidence that the charge carried by a quasiparticle/quasihole excitation of the 1/3 FQH liquid is e/3. The other is on the influence of disorder in the two-dimensional electron system on the 1.5 FQH liquid and the re-entrant nature of the insulating state below and above it. The more recent observation, in this re-entrant insulating state, of an electric field induced transition into an {gt} 10 times more conducting state, accompanied by an onset of low frequency noise, is reviewed. It is confirmation that in low disorder samples the insulating and nonlinear transport characteristics around filling factor {nu} = 1.5 are indicative of a transition from the incompressible FQH liquids to a deformable Wigner solid.
Evaluation of structured and quantitative training methods for teaching intracorporeal knot tying

Background: We evaluated the effectiveness of five training methods-four structured and one unstructured-for teaching intracorporeal knot tying. Methods: Forty-three graduate students without prior laparoscopic experience were randomly assigned to one of five training groups, and their performance in 10 intracorporeal knot tying trials was evaluated, using time to complete a knot as the outcome measure. Results: The average knot tying times for the four structured groups were significantly faster than the unstructured group (p 0.7, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Structured training can be useful for the development of laparoscopic skills. MIST-VR is a valuable part of this training, particularly in the objective evaluation of performance.
Personal and situational predictors of IS professionals' career choice satisfaction

In this study a model of information systems (IS) career choice satisfaction that included both personal and situational factors was empirically tested. The results indicate that IS professionals who work for consulting firms are more satisfied with their choice of careers than those who work for non-consulting firms. This difference is particularly pronounced for managers and women. In addition, female IS professionals are more satisfied with their choice of careers than male IS professionals, especially those in managerial positions. The model and results are discussed in the context of previous research studies on IS career satisfaction.
Drug release from electric current sensitive polymers

Abstract The crosslinked polymer, poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid-co-n-butylmethacrylate) [poly (AMPS/BMA)], was synthesized to study the effect of electric current on solute release. Edrophonium chloride, a positively charged solute was released in an on-off pattern from a poly(AMPS/BMA) monolithic device with electric stimulus. The on-off release mechanism of the positively charged solute was explained as an ion exchange between positive solute and hydroxonium ion, followed by fast release of the exchanged solute from the gel. The fast release was attributed to the electrostatic force, squeezing effect and the electro-osmosis of the gel. However, the release of neutral solute hydrocortisone was controlled by diffusion mechanism affected by swelling and deswelling of the gel.
Fatal Subacute Cytomegalovirus Encephalitis Associated With Hypogammaglobulinemia and Thymoma

Parathymic syndromes are systemic disorders that occur in association with thymoma. One such parathymic syndrome, hypogammaglobulinemia, was initially identified by Good in 1954 and has been referred to as Good syndrome. Patients with this syndrome develop a variety of recurrent infections due to the associated immunodeficiency. We describe a patient with cytomegalovirus encephalitis associated with Good syndrome and discuss the pathologic findings present on autopsy. The possibility of a cytomegalovirus infection should be considered early in the evaluation of patients with Good syndrome if appropriate clinical symptoms are present.
Application of a Batch Microwave Unit for Scale-Up of Alkoxycarbonylation Reactions Using a Near-Stoichiometric Loading of Carbon Monoxide

The ethoxycarbonylation of iodobenzene was performed on the 1 mol scale in batch mode using microwave heating. The reaction was performed using both an excess and a near stoichiometric loading of carbon monoxide, comparable yields being obtained. Six different alkoxycarbonylation reactions were then performed simultaneously on the 50 mmol scale using a near-stoichiometric loading of carbon monoxide with excellent conversions in each case.
Material Identification of Nonlinear Solids Infused with a Fluid

It is common in the theory of mixtures to prescribe a constitutive relation for the homogenized mixture rather than for each of the individual constituents. Such a relation should describe well the behavior of the mixture, that is experimental data. In this paper, we offer a theoretical framework to guide the performance and interpretation of biaxial tests on solid-fluid mixtures and, in particular, to identify forms of the response functions directly from the data. Moreover, in contrast to prior work, we include the effects of the inertia of the fluid constituent. The potential importance of the latter is illustrated via solutions for an assumed form of the Helmholtz potential for the mixture.
Host response in lymphomatoid papulosis

Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a papulonodular skin eruption characterized by spontaneous regression. In order to evaluate the role of host immune reactions in the phenomenon of regression, we analyzed skin biopsies from various stages of evolution in 16 patients with LyP using morphologic and immunoperoxidase techniques. Both rapidly regressing type A and more chronic type B lesions of LyP had modest perivascular and lesional infiltrates of small helper and suppressor T lymphocytes as well as histiocytes. Type A lesions in addition to numerous neutrophils and eosinophils had a more extensive lymphocytic infiltrate than type B lesions. Natural killer cells were not prominent in the skin lesions, although several patients had increased numbers of circulating natural killer cells. Our results demonstrate a correlation between the inflammatory components found in skin biopsies from patients with LyP and clinical behavior and suggest that cell-mediated immune reactions may play a role in the spontaneous regression of LyP.
Developing biomarker-specific end points in lung cancer clinical trials

In cancer-drug development, a number of different end points have been used to establish efficacy and support regulatory approval, such as overall survival, progression-free survival (PFS), and radiographic response rate. However, these traditional end points have important limitations. For example, in lung cancer clinical trials, evaluating overall survival end points is a protracted process and these end points are most reliable when crossover to the investigational therapy is not permitted. Furthermore, although radiographic surrogate end points, such as PFS and response rate, generally correlate with clinical benefit in the setting of cytotoxic chemotherapy and molecular targeted therapies, novel immunotherapies might have atypical response kinetics, which confounds radiographic interpretation. In this Review, we discuss the need to develop alternative or surrogate end points for lung cancer clinical trials, and focus on several new biomarkers that could serve as surrogate end points, including functional imaging biomarkers, circulating factors (tumour proteins, DNA, and cells), and pharmacodynamic tumour markers. By enabling the size, duration, and complexity of cancer trials to be reduced, biomarker end points hold the promise to accelerate drug development and improve patient outcomes.