cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydrodynamics and Leukocyte Adhesion in Microvessels: State of the Art

Leukocyte rolling and adhesion are complex physiological processes that have received a great deal of attention over the past decade. Significant increases in the knowledge base related to how leukocytes adhere in shear flows have occurred as a result of the development of novel experimental and computational techniques. Micro- and nano-fabrication techniques have enabled the development of novel flow devices for studying leukocyte adhesion in simple and complex geometries. Improvements in computer technology have enabled simulations of complex flow processes to be developed. As a result of these advances in knowledge related to leukocyte adhesion, numerous novel devices have been developed that mimic the leukocyte rolling and adhesion process. Examples of these devices include cell separation and enrichment devices and targeted ultrasound contrast agents. Future advances related to leukocyte rolling and adhesion processes hold great promise for advancing our knowledge of disease processes as well as development of novel therapeutic devices.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Does algal morphology affect amphipod susceptibility to fish predation

Abstract This study evaluated the hypothesis that phytal amphipods are less susceptible to predation by fishes when on highly branched, morphologically complex algal hosts than when on seaweeds with a simple bladed morphology. Contrary to this hypothesis, laboratory experiments demonstrated that the amphipod Ampithoe longimana (Smith) was more susceptible to predation by the pinfish Lagodon rhomboides (L.) when on any of four highly branched seaweeds ( Hypnea musciformis (Wulf.) Lamouroux, H. comuta (Lamour.) J. Agardh, Gracilaria tikvahiae McLachlan, or G. verrucosa (Huds.) Papenruss) than when on either of two species with a simpler sheetlike morphology ( Padina gymnospora (Kutz.) Sonder or Ulva sp.) The morphologically intermediate alga Sargassum filipendula J. Agardh provided an intermediate level of protection. Similar experiments were conducted using plastic aquarium plants of highly branched and sheetlike morphology to evaluate the effects of host-plant morphology without the potentially confounding effects of other species-specific algal characteristics. The pattern evident in our tests with real plants was repeated in only one of two tests with plant mimics. This variable effect of host morphology combined with a demonstration that pinfish consumed the highly branched species Hypnea musciformis in preference to Padina gymnospora or Sargassum filipendula suggests that the susceptibility of phytal amphipods to predation by omnivorous fishes like Lagodon may be affected by both host-plant morphology and host-plant palatability to fishes. In field experiments the density of amphipods colonizing and surviving on Hypnea was significantly lower than their density on Padina or Sargassum regardless of whether the plants were protected from or exposed to fishes. In similar assays using only Sargassum , no clear effect offish predation on abundance of phytal amphipods could be demonstrated in the presence of high colonization rates by amphipods. Seasonal patterns of amphipod abundance on different host plants suggested that fish predation may be affecting the density of amphipods on Hypnea more than on Sargassum or Padina . In the summer, fish predation on amphipods becomes high. During this period, amphipod density per algal mass declined on Hypnea , slowly increased on Sargassum , and remained relatively constant on Padina . This field pattern of seasonal change in amphipod abundance as a function of algal host is consistent with our conclusion from laboratory studies that amphipods are more susceptible to omnivorous fish predation when on Hypnea , which is both morphologically complex and a high-preference food for the fish.
The social context of critical care clinical judgment.

Background: Clinical judgment in critical care is supported by a rich social network of care providers. The purpose of this study was to describe the social context in which the process of critical care clinical judgment occurs from the nurse's perspective. Methods: An ethnographic study was conducted that included interviews with 10 nurses and participant observation in an open heart surgery unit with 59 nurses and two surgical teams during a 2-year period. Results: Nurses and physicians were organized in hierarchies of nurse manager, resource nurse, charge nurse, and staff nurse or attending surgeon, fellow, chief resident, and resident. These parallel hierarchies allowed for checks on judgment both within and across professional lines. Rituals, such as nursing report, physician rounds, and flow sheet use, provided a context for a critique on judgment processes. Communication of judgment was frequently a casual, open conversation. At other times, differences in perspective could result in conflict. Communication between nurses and physicians has been associated with better patient outcomes. Critical care unit directors and managers can use an analysis of communication patterns to develop supports to clinical judgment.
Compressive Image Reconstruction Optimization for Single-Photon Gaussian Beam Profiles

We perform simulated reconstructions of a 2-D Gaussian beam profile using combinations of three common compressive imaging reconstruction algorithms with semi-random sparse sampling matrices. We identify under what conditions the Gaussian profile is faithfully reconstructed.
Effects of a series of triorganotins on ATP levels in human natural killer cells.

Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells are our initial immune defense against viral infections and cancer development. Thus, agents that are able to interfere with their function increase the risk of cancer and/or infection. A series of triorganotins (trimethyltin (TMT), dimethylphenyltin (DMPT), methyldiphenyltin (MDPT), and triphenyltin (TPT)) have been shown to decrease the lytic function of human NK cells. TPT and MDPT were much more effective than DMPT or TMT at reducing lytic function. This study investigates the role that decreased ATP levels may play in decreases in the lytic function of NK cells induced by these organotins (OTs). A 24 h exposure to as high as 10 μM TMT caused no decrease in ATP levels even though this level of TMT caused a greater than 75% loss of lytic function. TPT at 200 nM caused a decrease in ATP levels of about 20% while decreasing lytic function by greater than 85%. There was no association between ATP levels and lytic function for any of the compounds when NK cells were exposed for 1 or 24 h. However, after a 48 h exposure to both DMPT and TPT decreased lytic function was associated with decreased ATP levels. There was an association between decreased lytic function and decreased ATP levels after a 6-day exposure to each of the four compounds. These studies indicate that the loss of lytic function seen after 1 and 24 h exposures to this series of organotins cannot be accounted for by decreases in ATP. However, after longer exposures loss of lytic function may be in part be attributable to inadequate ATP levels.
Myocardial substrate utilization in anaphylactic shock.

SummaryChanges in myocardial substrate utilization were studied in anesthetized dogs following the production of anaphylactic shock. Mean arterial blood pressure, cardiac output, and pH decreased significantly during this form of shock. Myocardial FFA oxidation was greatly diminished especially within the first hour following challenge and lactate uptake more than doubled during the same time. Thus, it is concluded that myocardial substrate utilization shifted away from FFA and towards lactate during anaphylactic shock and these changes resembled those observed following an acute, severe hemorrhage, or the administration of E. coli endotoxin.These studies were supported by Grant HL 16850 from the National Institutes of Health.
Coupling mercury methylation rates to sulfate reduction rates in marine sediments

Anoxic slurry incubations were performed to examine the relationship between mercury methylation rates (MMR) and sulfate reduction rates (SRR) in salt marsh sediments from the southeastern United States. The MMR and SRR were similarly affected by temperature, addition of low-weight molecular organics, and microbial inhibitors. The MMR was at a maximum in the 12 h after inorganic mercury addition. Initial rates of Hg methylation are correlated with SRR. A significantly slower MMR observed after the initial 12 h following inorganic mercury addition suggested that sorption or precipitation reduced the availability of mercury for methylation. The MMR results for various concentrations of inorganic mercury indicate that saturation kinetics occur. Using this kinetic framework, a model for MMR based on SRR and inorganic Hg concentration was developed. This model was then used to predict the MMR reported in temperature and substrate/inhibitor experiments. The model provided a reasonable estimate of MMR observed in the initial 12 h of the slurry incubations. However, the sequestering of inorganic mercury into less reactive pools by sorption to surfaces or incorporation into other phases alters the amount of bioavailable Hg and hence MMR. Future models that assess the bioavailibility of Hg in the sediments must be developed to extend these observations to field sites.
The effect of drug use on workplace accidents

Abstract In this paper, we examine the relationship between illicit drug use and workplace accidents among young adults in the United States in two complementary ways. The first, examines whether individuals who use drugs are more likely than their non-using counterparts to experience an accident on the job. The second focuses on the individual's consumption choices. The results are mixed. For young adult males, there is some evidence that drug use is significantly and positively related to workplace accidents, but for young adult females, the evidence suggests that there is no systematic relationship between drug use and workplace accidents.
Offensive Language and Impressions during an Interview

This study assessed the impact of offensive language used by male and female applicants in an employment interview. Using transcripts that controlled the presence or absence of offensive language and the sex of the job applicant, subjects rated the applicants for physical, social, and task attraction. Analysis indicated that offsensive language negatively affected impressions of the job applicant in terms of social attraction and task attraction (attractiveness of the person as a potential co-worker). No interaction was found.
Improving the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: The Role of EUS

The two most important factors for determining the risk of local failure and overall prognosis in colorectal carcinoma are nodal status and the depth of tumor penetration into or through the bowel ...
Direct observations of ultrasound microbubble contrast agent interaction with the microvessel wall

Many thousands of contrast ultrasound studies have been conducted in clinics around the world. In addition, the microbubbles employed in these examinations are being widely investigated to deliver drugs and genes. Here, for the first time, the oscillation of these microbubbles in small vessels is directly observed and shown to be substantially different than that predicted by previous models and imaged within large fluid volumes. Using pulsed ultrasound with a center frequency of 1 MHz and peak rarefactional pressure of 0.8 or 2.0 MPa , microbubble expansion was significantly reduced when microbubbles were constrained within small vessels in the rat cecum ( p < 0.05 ) . A model for microbubble oscillation within compliant vessels is presented that accurately predicts oscillation and vessel displacement within small vessels. As a result of the decreased oscillation in small vessels, a large resting microbubble diameter resulting from agent fusion or a high mechanical index was required to bring the agent shell into contact with the endothelium. Also, contact with the endothelium was observed during asymmetrical collapse, not during expansion. These results will be used to improve the design of drug delivery techniques using microbubbles.
Laryngotracheal reconstruction in infants and children: are single-stage anterior and posterior grafts a reliable intervention at all pediatric hospitals?

Abstract Objective To review outcomes of pediatric laryngotracheal stenosis treated by single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts and compare decannulation rate for single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with rates published at larger (>200 beds) pediatric tertiary care hospitals. Methods A 4-year retrospective chart review (2004–2008) of all patients undergoing procedures coded with 2008 CPT codes 31582 (laryngoplasty for laryngeal stenosis with graft or core mold, including tracheotomy) and 31587 (laryngoplasty, cricoid split) for a pediatric, tertiary-care hospital. Interventions were single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts, and the main outcome measure was the decannulation rate after single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction. Results We identified 44 patients with subglottic stenosis, of whom 13 underwent single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts. The mean age at surgery was 2.2 years (range, 5 months to 4 years). Twelve of 13 children had Cotton-Myer grade III stenosis. Ninety-two percent (12 of 13) of children remain decannulated. The mean follow up was 52 months. Conclusions Single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts appears to be a safe and effective technique for managing patients with high-grade subglottic stenosis at intermediate size children's hospitals. Our overall decannulation rate of 92% compares favorably to that reported in the literature (84–96%).
A 193 nm photodissociation time-of-flight mass spectrometric study of C6H5SH and C6H5SCH3

The kinetic energy releases of the photodissociation processes C6H5SH + h-nu (193 nm) --> C6H5 + SH, and C6H5SCH3 + h-nu (193 nm) --> C6H5 + SCH3 and C6H5S + CH3, have been measured by the time-of-flight mass spectrometric method. The available energies for these processes are found to appear predominantly (almost-equal-to 70-80%) as internal excitations for the photofragments. Based on the thresholds of kinetic energy release spectra, we obtain values of 87.4 +/- 2.0, 87 +/- 3, and < 81 +/- 7 kcal/mol for the dissociation energies of the C6H5-SH, C6H5S-CH3, and C6H5S-CH3 bonds at 0 K.
Measures of signal processing in persons with sensorineural hearing loss below 6 kHz.

Estimates of threshold, wide- and narrow-band noise masking, frequency and amplitude modulation detection, gap detection, and rate discrimination were obtained from 10 subjects with near-normal hea...
Characterization of the Helicobacter pylori NikR−PureA DNA Interaction: Metal Ion Requirements and Sequence Specificity†

HPNikR, a prokaryotic nickel binding transcription factor, is found in Helicobacter pylori where it functions as a regulator of multiple genes, including those involved in acid adaptation and nickel ion homeostasis. Particularly important is HPNikR's role in the regulation of the nickel-dependent enzyme urease which is critical for the organism's survival in the acidic environment of the gastric epithelium. The target operator sequences of the genes regulated by HPNikR do not contain any identifiable palindromes, and the exact mechanism(s) of the HPNikR−DNA recognition event is unknown. HPNikR was expressed and purified as a soluble protein containing mixed α/β secondary structure with evidence of a tertiary fold. A direct and competitive fluorescence anisotropy (FA) assay to probe both the metal ion requirements and sequence specificity of HPNikR for PureA, the operator sequence for the urease gene, was developed. FA studies revealed that apo-HPNikR did not bind to PureA while Ni(II)HPNikR bound PureA wi...
Origin of the Rajmahal Traps and the 85°E Ridge: Preliminary reconstructions of the trace of the Crozet hotspot

The 85°E Ridge is a buried aseismic ridge approximately parallel to and west of the Ninetyeast Ridge in the northeastern Indian Ocean. It was previously shown to be of probable volcanic origin emplaced on very young oceanic crust, but no satisfactory model of emplacement of the rocks was offered. We propose a model of origin of the Rajmahal Traps of northeastern India, the 85°E Ridge, and Afanasy Nikitin Seamount as the trace of the hotspot that now lies beneath the Crozet Islands in the southern Indian Ocean. This reconstruction places the Kerguelen hotspot, which formed the Ninetyeast Ridge, at the triple junction between Greater India, Australia, and Antarctica before the breakup of eastern Gondwana.
The Right to Die: A Cross-National Analysis of Agenda Setting and Innovation:

Through theories of agenda setting and innovation, the origin, development, and enactment of right-to-die policy in four Western nations—the United States, the Netherlands, Germany, and Great Britain—are examined. Different social and government structures produced varied right-to-die politics in each of these countries, although similar issues received more emphasis in Europe. However, it is discovered that policy entrepreneurs, organizations, and governments are important in similar ways in moving the issue from the public to the governmental agenda and to policy innovations in each country. The paper is concluded with a discussion of elements to be included in a model of agenda setting and innovation and with a proposal for the application of theory to a wider range of policies.
Electron Microscopy in the Diagnosis of BK-Polyoma Virus Infection in the Transplanted Kidney

BK polyomavirus has become an important etiologic agent responsible for significant morbidity in renal transplant recipients. This virus can be detected in transitional cells in the urine (decoy cells) using cytology, but correlation with allograft function status and histologic evidence of renal involvement is poor. Accurate diagnosis of BK polyomavirus infection requires a high index of suspicion and utilization of ancillary diagnostic techniques in many cases. Electron microscopy is very sensitive in depicting the presence of BK virions, but the finding of viral particles is not by itself diagnostic of BK interstitial nephritis. Management of patients with polyoma virus nephropathy is difficult since there is no specific antiviral therapy available at this time.
Measuring K-8 Teachers' Perceptions of Discourse Use in Their Mathematics Classes

This article documents the development and use of a survey instrument designed to measure K-8 mathematics teachers ‘perceptions about discourse in mathematics classes. In particular, the 5-point Likert-type survey sought to address teachers ‘perceptions of their use of dialogic (dialogue to construct new meaning), univocal (conveying information), and general discourse in their mathematics classes. Factor analysis revealed three reliable factors that were compatible with the original constructs, these include: dialogic discourse (α3= .67), univocal discourse (α1= .83), and general discourse (α2= .68). These results suggest a framework that could be used to uncover K-8 teachers' perceptions of their use of discourse in mathematics instruction, especially if there is interest in tendencies toward univocal or dialogic discourse. In addition to research implications, the survey could be used to inform the design and implementation of teacher professional development that focuses on discourse in mathematics instruction.
Eliminating sexual violence in schools: implications for athletics administrators in the United States

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 protects participants in educational programs or activities from sex discrimination. Sexual harassment is a prohibited form of sex discrimination, and sexual violence (such as sexual assault or rape) is a severe form of sexual harassment that is also prohibited. While acts of sexual violence are criminal matters, the educational institution is responsible for protecting students from acts of discrimination that interfere with the opportunity to gain the full benefit of their educational experience. As such, school administrators are responsible for prompt and effective response to acts of sexual violence against students under Title IX. In 2011, the US Department of Education Office for Civil Rights issued a Dear Colleague Letter addressing schools’ obligations to eliminate sexual violence. This article focuses on the implications this guidance document has for intercollegiate athletics administrators.
Effect of immunotherapy on immunoglobulin E and immunoglobulin G antibodies to ragweed antigens: A six-year prospective study

The effect of immunotherapy with aqueous short ragweed (SRW) extract on IgE and IgG antibodies was tested over a 6 yr period in 47 adults with ragweed hay fever. Sera were collected each year in July and October from 1973 through 1979. In May 1976, 23 patients began immunotherapy with a lyophilized standardized SRW extract. From 1976 through 1979, treated patients received an average total dose of 4.8 × 103 protein nitrogen units (1039 μg of AgE). IgE antibodies to SRW and ragweed AgE were measured by the radioallergosorbent test (RAST) in antigen excess using allergens bound to Sepharose. Blocking antibodies primarily of the IgG class were measured by RAST interference. In response to inhalation of ragweed pollen, untreated patients showed seasonal rises (July to October) and postseasonal falls (October to July) of IgE antibodies during the entire study period. IgE antibody levels in the untreated patients decreased with time and from 1974 to 1979 fell 41% (p < 0.003) for an average halftime of 6.2 yr. Before immunotherapy, treated patients also showed seasonal rises and postseasonal falls. Treatment with SRW extract in 1976 produced an abrupt increase in IgE and IgG antibodies and a clear-cut suppression of seasonal rises of IgE antibodies without an effect on postseasonal falls through 1978. From 1974 to 1979, IgE antibodies to AgE and SRW decreased more in the immunized group than in the control group, and by 1979 these levels showed a mean fall of 73%. Blocking antibodies increased in the treated patients and reached maximal levels by July 1978. In 1978 and 1979, the levels of IgG blocking antibodies to AgE were inversely related to the IgE antibody levels to AgE. These results indicate that adults with ragweed hay fever show regular seasonal and postseasonal changes in IgE antibodies and that IgE antibodies spontaneously decrease with time. Immunotherapy magnifies these decreases by suppression of the seasonal rises, but it does not affect the postseasonal falls.
Long-term duration of detectable neutralizing antibodies after administration of live-attenuated VEE vaccine and following booster vaccination with inactivated VEE vaccine

The US Army successfully developed a live-attenuated Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE) vaccine, TC-83, in 1961, and subsequently developed a formalin-inactivated vaccine, C-84, in 1974. Initial evaluation of both vaccines was promising, but no long-term safety and immunogenicity data have been reported. This study is the first analysis of the long-term safety and immunogenicity of TC-83 and C-84. From January 1976 to December 1990, 821 laboratory workers at the USAMRIID were vaccinated with a single 0.5 ml subcutaneous (s.c.) dose of TC-83; 128 were boosted with a single 0.5 ml s.c. dose of C-84. Eighty-two per cent of vaccinees responded to TC-83 with an 80% plaque reduction neutralization titer (PRNT80) of > or = 1:20. Minor side-effects were noted in 23% of vaccinees. No long-term sequelae were recorded. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a 60% probability of vaccinees maintaining a PRNT80 of > or = 1:20 for 5.5-8 years. C-84 was given to two groups: 76 initial nonresponders to TC-83, Group A, and 52 initial responders to TC-83 whose PRNT80 became or = 1:20 Kaplan-Meier analysis showed 100% probability of Group B members maintaining a titer of > or = 1:20 for the duration of follow-up, which, in some cases, exceeded 10 years; while Group A had only a 60% probability of maintaining a titer for 1-2 years. Only minor local reactions to C-84 were noted in 6.3% of vaccinees. We conclude that, although TC-83 is reactogenic, when administered as the primary vaccine and C-84 is administered as a boost, these vaccines provide good long-term immunity and are safe in humans. However, a single dose vaccine that is more immunogenic and less reactogenic is needed.
An Isentropic Streamtube Model for Flashing Two-Phase Vapor-Liquid Flow

For the case of an ideal fluid, a model is developed to describe flushing due to steep pressure gradients. A method of predicting choked flow is presented. (AIP)
The ordering and disordering of solid solutions under irradiation

Abstract A review is presented of the long-range ordering and disordering of solid solutions under irradiation. The study is based upon research papers which have been published over the past thirty years, and focuses on the experimental evidence for the phenomena and the underlying mechanisms. Also, the work discusses the crystalline-to-amorphous transformation which occurs in certain systems. It is concluded that ordering and disordering occur under cascade-producing Irradiation (fastneutrons and heavy-ions) and under non-cascade-producing irradiation (energetic electrons); that the degree of long-range order decreases exponentially with increasing fluence; that cascade-producing irradiation is more effective than non-cascadeproducing irradiation in creating disorder; that irradiation at intermediate temperatures leads to an intermediate degree of order; that the thermally activated migration of vacancies is the dominant mechanism underlying irradiation-induced ordering; and that thermal spikes, replacement collision sequences and random vacancy/interstitial recombinations are probable disordering mechanisms of which the relative importance varies with the nature of the irradiation.
Correlation of weather parameters with sodar-derived Cn2 profiles

Optical turbulence measurements have been performed at North Oscura Peak, White Sands Missile Range using a variety of precision instruments. A commercially available sodar system is used to collect atmospheric profiles, which are calibrated with fine-wire probes to calculate the optical index of refraction structure parameter, Cn2, from a height of 15 meters to around 160 meters above the ground.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Repression of bacterial motility by a novel fimbrial gene product.

Proteus mirabilis is a common uropathogen in patients with long-term catheterization or with structural or functional abnormalities in the urinary tract. The mannose-resistant, Proteus-like (MR/P) fimbriae and flagellum are among virulence factors of P.mirabilis that contribute to its colonization in a murine model of ascending urinary tract infection. mrpJ, the last of nine genes of the mrp operon, encodes a 107 amino acid protein that contains a putative helix–turn–helix domain. Using transcriptional lacZ fusions integrated into the chromosome and mutagenesis studies, we demonstrate that MrpJ represses transcription of the flagellar regulon and thus reduces flagella synthesis when MR/P fimbriae are produced. The repression of flagella synthesis by MrpJ is confirmed by electron microscopy. However, a gel mobility shift assay indicates that MrpJ does not bind directly to the regulatory region of the flhDC operon. The isogenic mrpJ null mutant of wild-type P.mirabilis strain HI4320 is attenuated in the murine model. Our data also indicate that PapX encoded by a pap (pyelonephritis- associated pilus) operon of uropathogenic Escherichia coli is a functional homolog of MrpJ.
Learning-Based Project Reviews: Observations and Lessons Learned from the Kennedy Space Center

Abstract:This research focuses on understanding and developing best practices for effective “learning-based program/project reviews” (LBPRs). LBPRs are defined as program/project reviews that provide an opportunity to learn while sharing status for project control. These LBPRs aim to be an evolution from the traditional status and control reviews to an improvement conversation that drives both learning and improvement within the project environment. LBPRs are important because they provide the real-time, routine opportunity to create, capture, share, and apply both tacit and explicit knowledge throughout a project life-cycle—not just during “lessons learned” at project closeout. Some organizations do complete lessons learned throughout the life cycle of the project. To accomplish this research, an action research approach was implemented using NASA programs and organizations associated with the Kennedy Space Center.
Extracellular measurement of acetylcholine receptor function in microcircuit-coupled myoblasts

An electrophysiological measurement principle for long-term, non-invasive monitoring of acetyleholine receptor function is described. Measurements depend on the ability to record agonist-induced depolarizations of clonal myobiasts that form high impedance seals with extracellular microcircuit electrodes. The extracellular potentials are shown to be completely eliminated by oc-bungarotoxin. The technique appears promising for a variety of non-invasive electrophysiological biosensing applications.
Lifting the lid on toilet plume aerosol: A literature review with suggestions for future research

Background The potential risks associated with "toilet plume" aerosols produced by flush toilets is a subject of continuing study. This review examines the evidence regarding toilet plume bioaerosol generation and infectious disease transmission. Methods The peer-reviewed scientific literature was searched to identify articles related to aerosol production during toilet flushing, as well as epidemiologic studies examining the potential role of toilets in infectious disease outbreaks. Results The studies demonstrate that potentially infectious aerosols may be produced in substantial quantities during flushing. Aerosolization can continue through multiple flushes to expose subsequent toilet users. Some of the aerosols desiccate to become droplet nuclei and remain adrift in the air currents. However, no studies have yet clearly demonstrated or refuted toilet plume-related disease transmission, and the significance of the risk remains largely uncharacterized. Conclusion Research suggests that toilet plume could play a contributory role in the transmission of infectious diseases. Additional research in multiple areas is warranted to assess the risks posed by toilet plume, especially within health care facilities.
Studies of the Synergistic Effect

Abstract Two aspects of synergism in solvent extraction are reviewed dependence on temperature and on the organic solvent. Temperature dependence studies allow calculation of the enthalpy and entropy changes associated with the synergistic reaction which is defined as: where M = metal cation, X = primary extractant, S = secondary extractant. From the magnitude and signs of the ΔS values, it is often possible to decide whether synergism is associated with replacement of solvate water by adduct molecules with no change in coordination number. Examples of extraction of a number of metals of different oxidation states are discussed to indicate the respective roles of dehydration and coordination number change in synergism. Complexing organic ligands often show a synergistic effect. A study of the system Eu(III) - benzoic acid - TTA in different solvents is discussed to indicate the roles of water and ligand solubility in the organic solvent.
Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy for illuminating complex systems

Abstract Over the years, the emissive characteristics (spectral, temporal, and polarization) of fluorophores have been widely used to probe a wide variety of systems. Fluorescence lifetime and rotational reorientation time measurements, in particular, offer a means to elucidate key details about complex systems. Further, because fluorescence occurs on the nanosecond (10 −9 s) timescale, competing or perturbing kinetic processes like collisional quenching, solvent relaxation, energy transfer, and rotational reorientation can affect the fluorescence and hence be quantified. Thus, a carefully chosen and “placed” fluorophore can serve as an reporter on a wide range of nanosecond or faster events. This contribution is divided into three sections. The Theory section discusses time-resolved anisotropy and intensity decay kinetics (time and frequency domains), pump–probe spectroscopy, and up-conversion. The second section describes time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) and multifrequency phase-modulation fluorescence instruments. The final section is divided into subsections on the use of time-resolved fluorescence: (1) to study solvation dynamics, biochemical systems, polymer photophysics, and organized media; (2) as a tool in the separation sciences, microscopy, and sensing; and (3) coupled with multiphoton excitation strategies.
Oxidation of 1-O-(alk-1-enyl)-2,3-di-O-acylglycerols: models for plasmalogen oxidation.

Alk-1-enyl diacyl glycerides, model compounds for plasmalogen lipids, were synthesized for use as substrates in oxidation studies. The neutral plasmalogen glycerides prepared included 1-O-(hexadec-1-enyl)-2,3-di-O-stearoylglycerol (4a) and 1-O-(hexadec-1-enyl)-2-O-linoleoyl-3-O-stearoylglycerol (4b). Oxidative disappearance of these glycerides was followed directly by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The extent of oxidation of the side chains of these glycerides, i.e. the alkenyl ether and fatty acyl functions, was monitored by conversion of the side chains to dimethylacetal and methyl ester by methanolysis, followed by subsequent gas chromatography (GC) of the methanolysis products. Both analytical approaches show that the alkenyl ether function of neat4a oxidizes more slowly than neat ethyl linoleate. However, the rate of alkenyl ether loss from4a is accelerated in the presence of added ethyl linoleate. Moreover, when the linoleoyl group is incorporated into the 2-position of the alkenyl glyceride, as in4b, the rate of loss of the alkenyl group was shown to be similar to the rate of loss of the linoleoyl group. These results suggest that oxidation of plasmalogen glycerides should not be ignored as a factor that contributes to the oxidative instability of animal tissue.
An approach utilizing information from traditional medicine to identify tumor-inhibiting plants☆

The search for effective tumor inhibitors for human use from higher plants requires a well-organized, cost and time efficient system for the initial evaluation of plants for potential antitumor activity. Three fundamental approaches currently being employed for the selection of the 750 000 candidate species are discussed. These include random selection screening, the use of information from traditional medicine to gain an insight from existing indigenous preparations, and a review of published experimental data that indicate antitumor activity for extracts of plants. In addition, a fourth approach, involving a combination of the aforementioned methods is proposed. This approach is modeled after a program initiated by the World Health Organization for the purpose of screening and investigating indigenous plants for fertility regulation.
Structural Variation Governs Substrate Specificity for Organic Anion Transporter (OAT) Homologs POTENTIAL REMOTE SENSING BY OAT FAMILY MEMBERS

Organic anion transporters (OATs, SLC22) interact with a remarkably diverse array of endogenous and exogenous organic anions. However, little is known about the structural features that determine their substrate selectivity. We examined the substrate binding preferences and transport function of olfactory organic anion transporter, Oat6, in comparison with the more broadly expressed transporter, Oat1 (first identified as NKT). In analyzing interactions of both transporters with over 40 structurally diverse organic anions, we find a correlation between organic anion potency (pKi) and hydrophobicity (logP) suggesting a hydrophobicity-driven association with transporter-binding sites, which appears particularly prominent for Oat6. On the other hand, organic anion binding selectivity between Oat6 and Oat1 is influenced by the anion mass and net charge. Smaller mono-anions manifest greater potency for Oat6 and di-anions for Oat1. Comparative molecular field analysis confirms these mechanistic insights and provides a model for predicting new OAT substrates. By comparative molecular field analysis, both hydrophobic and charged interactions contribute to Oat1 binding, although it is predominantly the former that contributes to Oat6 binding. Together, the data suggest that, although the three-dimensional structures of these two transporters may be very similar, the binding pockets exhibit crucial differences. Furthermore, for six radiolabeled substrates, we assessed transport efficacy (Vmax) for Oat6 and Oat1. Binding potency and transport efficacy had little correlation, suggesting that different molecular interactions are involved in substrate binding to the transporter and translocation across the membrane. Substrate specificity for a particular transporter may enable design of drugs for targeting to specific tissues (e.g. olfactory mucosa). We also discuss how these data suggest a possible mechanism for remote sensing between OATs in different tissue compartments (e.g. kidney, olfactory mucosa) via organic anions.
Interaction of arousal and task difficulty upon perceptual restriction.

-Ss were required to perform both central and peripheral perceptual tasks presented simultaneously by means of 200-msec. tachistoscopic flashes. The central task, requiring the discrimination between 2 lines on the basis of length, was progressively increased in difficulty from Test I to Test 111. Peripheral task performance required the estimation of the number of black dots surrounding the central task. This number varied randomly between 1 and 8. Half the Ss in each test performed these tasks under stress (hand in ice-water), the other Ss under no suess. A significant interaction ( p < .01) was found; the stress group was inferior to the no-stress group on the peripheral task when the central task was relatively easy (Test I ) but was superior to the no-stress group when the central task was extremely difficult (Test 111). The results were interpreted in terms of the dependence of the "range of cue utilization" upon the degree of difficulty of the perceptual material as well as arousal level.
Historical Perspectives: History of Surgery for Congenital Diseases of the Heart

The frequency of congenital diseases of the heart is generally quoted as about 8 per 1,000 live births. However, this estimate was based on autopsy or clinical assessments prior to the era of cardiac ultrasonography. It is now appreciated that many infants are born with ventricular septal defects that close soon after birth, that the aortic valve is bicuspid in 1% to 2% of individuals, and that a small “silent” patent ductus arteriosus may be detected by ultrasonography in as many as 0.3% to 0.5% of infants. Persistent patency of the ductus arteriosus in a large proportion of preterm infants also has been recognized. Thus, the frequency of congenital cardiac lesions may be as high as 4% to 5%. In Sir James Mackenzie’s book Diseases of the Heart in 1913, the chapter on Congenital Affections of the Heart occupied one page; in the section on Treatment, he stated, “If the heart maintains the circulation well, no treatment is required. In more serious cases, beyond attending to the child’s comfort and nourishment, special treatment of the heart is of little benefit… .” Now, about 90 years later, the majority of those lesions that do not improve spontaneously can be corrected or palliated. Lord Ritchie-Calder stated that, “In science, there are those that make it happen, and those that make it possible.” This discussion reviews some remarkable achievements and the individuals who made them possible or were responsible for their execution. Case reports of several congenital cardiac lesions had been reported earlier, such as ventricular septal defect (maladie de Roger) and tetralogy of Fallot, but in the late 19th and early 20th century, Maude Abbott (Fig. 1), through intensive study of pathologic specimens, described the various types of congenital defects of the heart and developed a classification. Figure 1. Maude Abbott. Courtesy of the …
Acetolactate synthase-inhibiting herbicides on imidazolinone-tolerant rice

Abstract The cross-tolerance of imidazolinone-tolerant (IMI-tolerant) rice to various acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides at one and two times labeled rates was studied. The IMI-tolerant rice is cross-tolerant to imazaquin, imazapyr, nicosulfuron, pyrithiobac, thifensulfuron plus tribenuron, and triasulfuron; is partially tolerant to imazamethabenz and metsulfuron; and is susceptible to chlorimuron, flumetsulam, imazamox, imazapic, primisulfuron, and rimsulfuron. In the greenhouse, IMI-tolerant rice injury with 70 and 140 g ai ha−1 imazethapyr was 17 and 34%, respectively, 28 DAT. Both rates of imazapyr, imazaquin, rimsulfuron, nicosulfuron, thifensulfuron plus tribenuron, and pyrithiobac, and 25 g ai ha−1 triasulfuron, injured rice the same as imazethapyr. Red rice control with 70 and 140 g ha−1 imazethapyr was 97 and 98%, respectively, 28 DAT. At label and two times the label rate, all imidazolinones, nicosulfuron, and primisulfuron controlled red rice equivalent to imazethapyr. Red rice c...
Dissolved mineral matter in surface-waters

The only unpublished comprehensive Geological Survey records of dissolved matter in surface-waters are the results obtained in the study of the Colorado River and its tributaries since 1930. The records are mainly analyses of 10-day composites of daily samples, although there are several analyses of spot-samples from some streams in the basin and about 4000 single determinations of chloride or sulphate in daily samples. The need for a large number of analyses is shown by the fact that during the period 1925–35 the quantity of dissolved solids in 10-day composites from the Colorado River at Grand Canyon ranged from 226 parts per million for June 11–20, 1929, to 1889 parts per million for. September 21–30, 1934. A series of analyses covering a whole year might be misleading. The weighted averages for the different years ranged from 491 parts per million for the year ending September 30, 1928, to 960 for the year ending September 30, 1934.
Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy for the Treatment of Pediatric Urethral Strictures: Analysis of 50 Patients

ABSTRACTPurpose: In an attempt to evaluate our experience with the treatment of pediatric urethral stricture disease we performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU).Materials and Methods: The computerized surgical logs at 2 pediatric hospitals were reviewed to identify patients who underwent DVIU between 1992 and 2001. Hospital and clinical charts were then reviewed. Many variables were analyzed, including patient age, etiology of stricture, technique and clinical outcomes. Minimum followup to be included in clinical outcome analysis was 12 months.Results: A total of 50 patients were identified (mean age 7.7 years, range 6 months to 17 years). The most common etiology for stricture formation was previous hypospadias repair (20 patients [40%]). Forty patients met the 12-month minimum followup requirement for clinical outcome analysis. Of these patients 20 (50%) had no symptoms to suggest recurrent stricture at a median of 2.0 years (mean 2.7 years, range...
Le sujet de l’art. Prolégomènes à une esthétique deleuzienne future

Peut-on parler d’une « esthetique » deleuzienne ? Quel est le statut que Gilles Deleuze a reserve aux productions artistiques ? Y a-t-il pour Deleuze un « sujet » de l’art ? Quelle place les arts ont-ils occupee dans l’oeuvre du philosophe ? Apres la parution de Qu’est-ce que la philosophie ? de nombreux critiques et commentateurs de l’oeuvre deleuzienne ont cru trouver dans ce livre les « elements » — au sens d’une Elementarlhere, a la maniere kantienne — qui permettaient d’en determiner la configuration generale. Et c’est ainsi que les notions de percept et d’affect, par exemple, ont ete transformees en concepts passe-partout que l’on allait « appliquer » sans autre forme de proces a l’analyse des oeuvres d’art. Ce que l’on decouvre en examinant certains des jalons marquant le travail de Deleuze sur l’art, c’est que si l’on doit parler d’une « esthetique » deleuzienne, ce n’est pas du cote d’une theorie du beau, mais plutot du cote d’une theorie du « jugement », directement tiree d’une relecture des grands textes de Kant sur le gout et sur le « sujet » de l’art, que l’on doit chercher. En partant de ce type de consideration, il faut s’interroger sur les raisons qui ont amene Gilles Deleuze a revisiter l’esthetique transcendantale kantienne. On decouvre ainsi le role cle qu’a joue la troisieme Critique de Kant dans l’elaboration par Gilles Deleuze d’une esthetique a-subjective et non representative fondee sur une remise en question radicale de la conception kantienne du rapport entre les facultes.
Cephalometric effects of combined palatal expansion and facemask therapy on Class III malocclusion

The purpose of this study was to examine the cephalometric changes that occur with palatal expansion/facemask therapy for Class III malocclusion. Pretreatment and posttreatment lateral cephalograms from 21 patients were traced and analyzed by traditional cephalometric measures, an x-y coordinate system, and along the functional occlusal plane. Differences between T1 and T2 values were analyzed with paired t-tests. Mean ages were 7.26 years (T1) and 8.18 years (T2). Average treatment time was 11.05 months. Statistically significant anterior movement of the maxilla occurred with increases in SNA (+2.35), maxillary depth (+2.22), and ANB (+3.66), and anterior movement of A-point (+3.34 mm) and ANS (+3.17 mm). The maxilla rotated counterclockwise, with PNS moving down more than ANS (-2.21 mm and -0.82, respectively). The mandible rotated clockwise with mild decreases in SNB (-1.32) and facial depth, (-1.2) but significant downward movement at menton (-4.34 mm). Occlusal plane analysis demonstrated that the correction was due more to the maxilla than the mandible (+2.35 and -1.88 mm, respectively). The maxillary molars moved forward (+1.70 mm) as did the incisors (+1.75 mm). Soft tissue changes included the nose and upper lip moving forward (3.43 and 3.67 mm, respectively), and menton moving downward (-3.49 mm). The results indicate that facemask/palatal expansion therapy improves Class III malocclusion by a combination of skeletal and dental changes that occur the anteroposterior dimension and in the vertical plane of space.
Reduced Acceleration Sensitivity of Fiber Lasers

A new packaging design is presented for an erbium-doped fiber laser, which is shown to greatly reduce the sensitivity of the laser frequency noise to environmental acceleration. The laser's performance makes it suitable for applications in interferometric systems in field environments where the laser may be exposed to high vibration.