cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coastal currents and mass transport of surface sediments over the shelf regions of Monterey Bay, California

Abstract In Monterey Bay, the highest concentrations of medium and fine sands occur nearshore between ten and thirty fathoms. Silt and clay accumulate in greater depths. Contours of median diameter roughly parallel the isobaths. Fine-grained materials are supplied to the bay region from erosion of cliffs which partly surround Monterey Bay, from sediment laden river discharge, and from continual reworking of widespread Pleistocene and Recent sea floor sediments. These sediments in turn are picked up by coastal currents and distributed over the shelf regions by present day current regimes. Studies of bottom currents over the shelf regions and in Monterey Canyon have revealed patterns which vary with seasonal changes. Current patterns during August and September exhibit remarkable symmetry about the axis of Monterey Submarine Canyon. Central Shelf currents north and south of Monterey Canyon flowed northwest at an average rate of 0.2 knots and south at 0.3 knots respectively. On the North Shelf between January and March currents flowed east to southeast at 0.3–0.5 knots with mirror image patterns above the South Shelf during the same period. Irregular current flow in the canyon indicates a complex current structure with frequent shifts in counterclockwise and clockwise direction over very short periods of time. Bottom topography of the canyon complex often causes localization of canyon currents. One particular observation at a depth of 51 fathoms indicated up-canyon flow at a rate of 0.2 knots. Most of the observed currents are related to seasonal variations, upwelling, ocean swell patterns, and to changes in the California and Davidson currents. Changes in current regimes are reflected in the patterns of sediment distribution and transport. Sediment transport is chiefly parallel to the isobaths, particularly on the North and South Shelf regions. Complex dispersal patterns are observed near Monterey Canyon and Moss Landing Harbor jetties. Longshore currents move sediments southward except near Monterey Canyon which acts as a physiographic barrier and the extreme southern end of the bay where currents are non persistent. Some sediments are also transported offshore by rip currents and other agencies and deposited in deeper, quieter waters. Supply of sediments to the canyon head results in over-filling and steepening with subsequent mass movement of sediments seaward followed by deposition in channels and on the broad deep sea fan.
Selective D2 dopamine receptor agonists prevent catalepsy induced by SCH 23390, a selective D1 antagonist.

SCH 23390, an apparently selective antagonist of central D1 dopamine receptors, produced profound catalepsy at low doses (0.1 mg/kg, s.c.). Pretreatment with the selective D2 receptor agonists LY 141865, RU 24213 or LY 171555, the active (−) enantiomer of LY 141865, elicited a dose-dependent inhibition of the cataleptic response. Pergolide and apomorphine were also effective. This effect was not due to altered disposition or penetration of SCH 23390 into the brain since pretreatment with a dose of LY 171555 which completely blocked catalepsy had no effect on the ID50 of SCH 23390 to inhibit 3H-cis-piflutixol binding to D1 receptors measured ex vivo. Alternative mechanisms are considered to explain the results, which offer new insights into striatal dopaminergic regulation of motor activity.
Mechanism of Influenza A Virus Mediated Inhibition of IL-23 Expression in Macrophage Cells

achieve an autopsy and numerous samples (on animals and the environment) for bacteriological, mycological, parasitological, histological and serological tests. Clinical information, results of autopsies and of histological examinations, results of other complementary tests and bacteriological culture of virulent R. equi strains on numerous samples allowed confirming an outbreak of rhodococcosis in adult equidae. The occurrence of unusual clinical forms of rhodoccoccosis (including multiple subcutaneous abscesses without pulmonary involvement) affecting exclusively the ponies seems to have a multifactorial origin with the intervention of a lack of acclimatization of the ponies to local climatic conditions (tropical humid lowland region) associated with constant hyperthermia even at rest, maybe some failures in the everyday breeding practices and the probable involvement of biting arthropods.
A study of displacement-based fluid finite elements for calculating frequencies of fluid and fluid-structure systems

Abstract The widely-used displacement-based finite element formulation for inviscid, compressible, small displacement fluid motions is examined, with the specific objective of calculating fluid-structure frequencies. It is shown that the formulation can be employed with confidence to predict the static response of fluids. Also the resonant frequencies of fluids in rigid cavities and the frequencies of fluids in flexible boundaries are solved successfully if a penalty on rotations is included in the formulation. However, the reason for writing this paper is that problems involving structures moving through fluids that behave almost incompressibly - such as an ellipse vibrating on a spring in water - could not be solved satisfactorily, for which a general explanation is given.
Increased Attention to the Search Process Improves the Chances of Foster Kinship Placements

Although child protective service (CPS) workers are mandated by social policies to conduct a search for relatives, the search process remains unclear and under scrutiny. Placing children with an appropriate relative is dependent on workers' practices and, to some extent, attitudes. Reviewing social policies that mandate the inclusion of relatives as placement options for vulnerable children, this article explores public child welfare policies and how they influence CPS workers' roles in the search process. Changes are presented that were implemented to the search process by CPS workers who participated in a one-year demonstration project.
Nuts and bolts: implementing descriptive standards to enable virtual collections

To date, online archival information systems have relied heavily on legacy finding aids for data to encode and provide to end users, despite fairly strong indications in the archival literature that such legacy data is problematic even as a mediated access tool. Archivists have only just begun to study the utility of archival descriptive data for end users in unmediated settings such as via the Web. The ability of future archival information systems to respond to the expectations and needs of end users is inextricably linked to archivists getting their collective data house in order. The General International Standard Archival Description (ISAD(G)) offers the profession a place from which to start extricating ourselves from the idiosyncracies of our legacy data and description practices.
The NAD+-Dependent Deacetylase SIRT1 Modulates CLOCK-Mediated Chromatin Remodeling and Circadian Control

Circadian rhythms govern a large array of metabolic and physiological functions. The central clock protein CLOCK has HAT properties. It directs acetylation of histone H3 and of its dimerization partner BMAL1 at Lys537, an event essential for circadian function. We show that the HDAC activity of the NAD+-dependent SIRT1 enzyme is regulated in a circadian manner, correlating with rhythmic acetylation of BMAL1 and H3 Lys9/Lys14 at circadian promoters. SIRT1 associates with CLOCK and is recruited to the CLOCK:BMAL1 chromatin complex at circadian promoters. Genetic ablation of the Sirt1 gene or pharmacological inhibition of SIRT1 activity lead to disturbances in the circadian cycle and in the acetylation of H3 and BMAL1. Finally, using liver-specific SIRT1 mutant mice we show that SIRT1 contributes to circadian control in vivo. We propose that SIRT1 functions as an enzymatic rheostat of circadian function, transducing signals originated by cellular metabolites to the circadian clock.
Self-Efficacy Mediates the Relationship Between Depressive Symptoms and Medication Adherence Among Hypertensive African Americans:

Many studies have documented the negative effects of depression on adherence to recommended treatment; however, little is known about the mechanism underlying this relationship. Using the Kenny and Baron analytic framework of mediation, the authors assessed whether self-efficacy mediated the relationship between depression and medication adherence in 167 hypertensive African Americans followed in a primary care practice. Depressive symptoms are associated with poor medication adherence (β = .013, p = .036) and low self-efficacy (β = —.008, p = .023). Self-efficacy is negatively associated with medication adherence at follow-up (β = —.612, p < .001). The relationship between depressive symptoms and medication adherence becomes nonsignificant when controlling for self-efficacy (β = .010, p = .087). Implications for further examination into the mediating role of self-efficacy and the deleterious effect of depression on medication adherence are discussed.
The size of the mammalian lung β2-adrenergic receptor as determined by target size analysis and immunoaffinity chromatography

Abstract The subunit molecular weight of mammalian lung β 2 -adrenergic receptors has been determined to be 59,000 daltons with monoclonal and autoantibody immunoaffinity chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Target size analysis of mammalian lung membrane β 2 -adrenergic receptors indicates a functional molecular weight for the β 2 -receptor in situ of 109,000 ± 5,300 daltons. These data suggest that the mammalian lung β 2 -receptor may be a dimer of two identical subunits of 59,000 daltons.
Metabolism of Perfused C14-Labeled Nucleosides and Bases by the Isolated Heart

The cardiac metabolism of C 14 -labeled nucleosides and bases was investigated in isolated rabbit hearts perfused with a glucose-electrolyte medium. Records of contractile force, heart rate and coronary drainage were taken at intervals before, during, and after perfusion with a labeled compound. Contractile force was increased in the presence of inosine, uridine, guanosine, and hypoxanthine; and decreased in the presence of adenine. Determination of radioactivity of aliquots of perfusate during C 14 perfusion and washout periods showed generally constant uptake of the labeled compounds by the hearts, after an initial dilution by tissue water, and efficient washout of extracellular label before preparing myocardial extracts. Recirculation of inosine-C 14 was accompanied by incorporation of radioactivity into cardiac nucleotides, chiefly adenine nucleotides but also inosinic acid (IMP) and guanine nucleotides. Labeled hypoxanthine was recovered from both heart and perfusate. Recirculation of uridine-C 14 was accompanied by incorporation of radioactivity into cardiac uridine nucleotides, and the appearance of labeled uracil in the perfusate. In both groups of experiments, the ratio of labeled base to nucleoside in cardiac extracts exceeded the ratio in perfusates, indicating unequal cellular retention of base and nucleoside. Perfusion with guanosine-C 14 led to limited incorporation of C 14 into guanine nucleotides without interconversion to other cardiac nucleotides. Recirculation of C 14 -labeled hypoxanthine or adenine was accompanied by incorporation of radioactivity into cardiac purine nucleotides. Equivalent label distribution was found among adenosine monophosphate, adenosine diphosphate, and adenosine triphosphate, indicating intracellular equilibrium among these compounds. Conversion of labeled adenine to hypoxanthine occurred in the perfusate of the adenine-C 14 experiments. The cardiac metabolism of the perfused nucleosides and bases followed generally predictable sequences, and did not suggest a mechanism for the marked inotropic activity of these compounds.
Oral contraception during lactation: A global survey of physician practice

The use of combined estrogen-progestogen oral contraceptives (EP-OC) by lactating women has been associated with suppression of lactation. To determine the extent to which physicians prescribe combined EP-OC for lactating women, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) and the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) collaborated in a global mail survey of 3697 physicians affiliated with Family Planning Associations (FPA) in 72 countries. Usable responses were received from 831 physicians (22%) in 65 countries. The percent of clinicians who provide EP-OC to lactating women was higher in developing regions (63% or more) than in developed regions (40% or less). Patient preference was rated important more often than any other factor in the decision to prescribe EP-OC for lactating women. The percentage of clinicians who reported complaints of decreased milk production from women using EP-OC was higher (32% or more) in developing regions where breast milk is often essential to infant nutrition.
On a conjecture of Kakosyan, Klebanov and Melamed

Suppose X1, X2, ..., Xm is a random sample of size m from a population with probability density function f(x), x>0 and let X1,m<...<Xm,m be the corresponding order statistics. We assume m as an integer valued random variable with P(m=k)=p(1−p)k−1, k=1, 2, ... and 0<p<1. Kakosyan, Klebanov and Melamed (1984) conjectured that the identical distribution of and n X1,n for fixed n characterizes the exponential distribution. In this paper we prove that under the assumption of monotone hazard rate the identical distribution of and (n−r+1) (Xr,n−Xr−1,n) for some fixed r and n with 1≤r≤n, n≥2, X0,n=0, characterizes the exponential distribution. Under the assumption of monotone hazard rate the conjecture of Kakosyan, Klebanov and Melamed follows from the above result with r=1.
New oxypregnane glycosides from appetite suppressant herbal supplement Hoodia gordonii.

Abstract Hoodigosides A–K ( 1 – 11 ), eleven new oxypregnane glycosides and a previously reported oxypregnane glycoside P57AS3 were isolated from the aerial parts of Hoodia gordonii . The structures of these 12- O -β-tigloyl isoramanone glycosides were determined on the basis of chemical evidence and extensive spectroscopic methods that include one-dimensional and two-dimensional NMR. Cytotoxicity and antioxidant activities of these compounds were tested in cell based assays where they were found to be inactive.
Evaluating the Schooling of Intelligence

R obert Glaser, Director of the Learning Research and Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh, has frequently assailed conventional intelligence and aptitude tests as practically useless in adaptive education (Glaser, 1968, p. 11; Glaser & Nitko, 1971, p. 629; Glaser, 1972, p. 8). On the other hand, in a recent study of the summative evaluation posture of LRDC, I have contended that conventional tests, and the trait and factor concepts they operationalize, can play a central role in the evaluation of new educational systems (Lohnes, 1972). I believe these judgments to be as trains passing in the night, bearing different goods to different destinations. It is undoubtedly true that new techniques, such as behavioral objectives, learning hierarchies, criterion-referenced tests, and "new aptitudes," are opening new educational frontiers. Formative evaluation is one of the new specializations in educational research, and it will have to find its unique tools. What I wish to sketch here are the bones of an argument for the relevance to summative evaluation of the traditional educational measurements of intelligence and special aptitudes.
Dry eyes: etiology and management.

Purpose of review Until recently, the cause of dry eye syndrome was uncertain and the treatment was palliative. Since discovering that dry eyes are caused by inflammation, there has been an abundance of research focusing on anti-inflammatory therapies, other contributing causes, and better diagnostic testing. This review summarizes some of the interesting published research on ocular surface disease over the past year. Recent findings The definition of dry eye now highlights the omnipresent symptom of blurry vision. The re-evaluation of ocular surface staining, tear meniscus height, and visual change will allow for a better diagnosis and understanding of dry eyes. Punctal plugs, and oral and topical anti-inflammatory use will strengthen our arsenal against ocular surface disease. Summary Major progress has occurred in the past few years in gaining a better understanding of the etiology of dry eye syndrome, which will inevitably lead to more effective therapeutic options.
A Preliminary Exploration of On-Line Study Question Performance and Response Certitude as Predictors of Future Examination Performance.

This research evaluated an online study task intended to improve the study metacognition and examination performance of inexperienced college students. Existing research has commonly operationalized metacognition as the accuracy of examination score predictions. This research made use of the average discrepancy between rated confidence in individual study question responses and the accuracy of the responses to these questions as a second way to assess metacognition. Study questions accuracy, average study question confidence discrepancy, and examination predictions were contrasted as predictors of examination performance. Study question accuracy and examination predictions were significant predictors of performance. The usefulness of the accuracy of confidence ratings in predicting examination performance may have been diminished by the decreasing use of the online study questions by those who performed most poorly on examinations. Those students who ended up scoring in the bottom third on course examinat...
Diagnosis of Multiyear Predictability on Continental Scales

AbstractA new statistical optimization method is used to identify components of surface air temperature and precipitation on six continents that are predictable in multiple climate models on multiyear time scales. The components are identified from unforced “control runs” of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 3 dataset. The leading predictable components can be calculated in independent control runs with statistically significant skill for 3–6 yr for surface air temperature and 1–3 yr for precipitation, depending on the continent, using a linear regression model with global sea surface temperature (SST) as a predictor. Typically, lag-correlation maps reveal that the leading predictable components of surface air temperature are related to two types of SST patterns: persistent patterns near the continent itself and an oscillatory ENSO-like pattern. The only exception is Europe, which has no significant ENSO relation. The leading predictable components of precipitation are significantly correlat...
Establishing brackish marshes on graded upland sites in North Carolina

Techniques were developed for establishing brackish marshes on graded upland sites which were connected to the Pamlico River estuarine system. The principal factors which affected establishment and growth were elevation, soil moisture conditions after transplanting, and nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization. Marsh vegetation was limited to a narrow, specific elevation range. The elevation range forSpartinaalterniflora at the site was from +0.06 to +0.43 m mean sea level.S.Patens andS.cynosuroides were limited to the elevation zone from +0.18 to +0.43 m. Water level is quite variable at the site and is controlled by wind direction, wind velocity, and river flow. Dry conditions in the upper half of the elevation zone caused high mortality of bareroot, field-dug transplants after transplanting. Greenhouse-grown potted plants were able to survive because of intact root systems and moisture associated with the potting medium. Results of soil tests from the site indicated low phosphorus availability. Experimental plots testing the effects of fertilizer on plant growth indicated that additions of both N and P were necessary for good growth of the threeSpartina species. Dry weight of fertilized transplants was up to twenty times greater than unfertilized transplants after one growing season, and the residual effect of the fertilizer was still apparent after the second growing season.
Solving the self-interaction problem in Kohn–Sham density functional theory: Application to atoms

Abstract In previous work, we proposed a computational methodology that addresses the elimination of the self-interaction error from the Kohn–Sham formulation of the density functional theory. We demonstrated how the exchange potential can be obtained, and presented results of calculations for atomic systems up to Kr carried out within a Cartesian coordinate system. In this paper, we provide complete details of this self-interaction free method formulated in spherical coordinates based on the explicit equidensity basis ansatz. We prove analytically that derivatives obtained using this method satisfy the Virial theorem for spherical orbitals, where the problem can be reduced to one dimension. We present the results of calculations of ground-state energies of atomic systems throughout the periodic table carried out within the exchange-only mode.
Complete Ventricular Asystole in a Patient with Altered Mental Status

Patients who present with recurrent syncope are at risk for having underlying conduction disease, which may worsen if not promptly recognized and treated. We describe a patient who initially presented to a Mexican clinic with recurrent syncope and an electrocardiogram that showed complete heart block. After being transferred to our emergency department, he deteriorated into complete ventricular asystole with preserved atrial function and required placement of a transvenous cardiac pacemaker.
Control of the synthesis of DNA precursors during Rana pipiens development.

Abstract The enzymes responsible for the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of TMP and dCMP and for the deamination of dCMP were obtained from the eggs and embryos of Rana pipiens and studied in vitro . Optimal conditions for the enzyme assays are demonstrated for both early cleaving and post-gastrula embryo homogenates. A high level of dephosphorylating activity present in post-gastrula homogenates necessitated the use of NaF in all assays of phosphorylating and deaminating activity, in order to achieve consistent results. In vitro addition of dCTP manifested a strong noncompetitive inhibition of dCMP kinase activity and, to a lesser degree, inhibition of TMP kinase while stimulating dCMP deaminase. TTP addition had no effect on dCMP or TMP kinase, but strongly inhibited dCMP deaminase activity. The absence of any demonstrable thymidine kinase activity and the availability of TMP and TTP in this system suggest that the intracellular concentration of dCTP acts as a primary regulator of DNA precursor synthesis.
Effectiveness of fruiting sites in cotton: yield.

(...) Bolls at position one on sympodial branches produced 66 to 75% of total yield; those at position two produced 18 to 21%; all other positions on sympodial branches produced from 2 to 4%. Monopodial branches produced from 3 to 9%. Sympodial branches from Nodes 9 through 14 produced the bulk of the lint in all cultivars. Distribution of lint over sympodia among cultivars was significantly different for positions one and two.(...) This research provides valuable information needed to more effectively manage the production of the newer, early maturing cultivars of cotton presently being grown in the mid-South
Real-Time Expert System for Fault-Tolerant Supervisory Control

Many mechanical systems are sufficiently complex that it is impractical to describe their dynamics by exact mathematical models. In the presence of such modeling uncertainties, advanced controllers like adaptive controllers perform better than linear feedback controllers since they actively reduce the uncertainly by online parameter estimation. Unfortunately, the advanced control strategies, due to their lack of robustness, can become unstable in the presence of unpredictable external disturbances, and hence, there exists a need for a fault-toterant approach to preserve the overall system integrity even at the cost of design performance. This motivated the research, presented in this paper, to investigate the suitability of the IDES (Influence Diagram Based Expert System) as an expert supervisory controller to predict incipient instability, a significant failure mode, and take corrective action in real-time when closed loop stability appears to in danger. The expert supervisory control scheme is demonstrated on a model-referenced adaptive controller as applied to a robotic manipulator
EVALUATION OF DUCKLING BREAST MEAT SUBJECTED TO DIFFERENT METHODS OF FURTHER PROCESSING AND COOKING

Breast fillets (128 total) deboned from commercially processed 7-week-old Pekin ducklings were subjected to one of four tenderization treatments: control, mechanically tenderized, marinated, or tenderized and marinated, and one of two cooking methods, oven-baked or gourmet-cooked. Treatments were evaluated for cooked yield and tenderness. Mechanical tenderization resulted in the lowest cooked yield, 60.0%, followed by the control, 64.5%. Mechanical tenderization and the control treatment were not significantly different for shear, with an average of 7.0 kg shear/g sample. Marination, with or without mechanical tenderization, resulted in signficantly greater cooked yield, 72.6 and 72.9 % respectively, and more tender meat, 4.9 and 5.1 kg shear/g meat respectively. Oven baking resulted in a signficantly greater cooked yield than gourmet cooking. Results indicate that marination, with or without mechanical tenderization, can significantly improve the cooked yield and tenderness of duckling breast fillets.
Circadian variations of adrenergic receptors in the mammalian pineal gland: A review

Pineal adrenergic receptor numbers show circadian variations in both rat and Syrian hamster. In the rat pineal Β-adrenergic receptor density reaches peak values either late in the light phase or at middark; the differences in the circadian phase seem related to the light:dark cycle to which the animals are exposed. No circadian rhythm of pineal α-adrenergic receptors is documented in intact rats. In the Syrian hamster pineal Β-adrenergic receptor density is high throughout the light phase and drops to minimal values at the time of the nocturnal peak of melatonin production. The circadian rhythm of pineal α-adrenergic receptor numbers runs parallel to the Β-adrenergic receptor variation, but is less pronounced. In the rat, pineal melatonin production is rapidly induced by Β-adrenergic agonists at any time during a 24-hour period, even when the pinealocyte Β-adrenergic receptor number is lowest (early in the light phase). In contrast, the Syrian hamster pineal seems most responsive to Β-adrenergic agonists in the late night while being less responsive during the day when Β-adrenergic receptor density is high. Interestingly, the human pineal gland is also not especially responsive to adrenergic stimulation during the light phase, possibly making the Syrian hamster pineal a better model than the rat pineal for determining neural/pineal interactions in humans. Comparison of the circadian variations in pineal adrenergic receptors leads to the conclusion that the functional differences between rat and hamster pineal are probably not explicable in terms of the adrenergic receptors, but are caused most likely by (a) intracellular mechanism(s) beyond the adrenergic receptors.
The lasertron rf generator for FEL applications

Abstract The lasertron rf generator uses an rf-modulated laser beam to generate a tightly bunched electron beam that is accelerated by a dc power supply to the fractional megawatt region. The tightly bunched beam then crosses an output cavity where most of the kinetic energy may be extracted. The bunching is so good that efficient microwave generation at 3 GHz and above is feasible, and three projects worldwide are under way for these frequencies. All three existing projects focus on the linear collider application of high peak power with good efficiency, short output pulses, and low average power. A short review of these projects is presented. The main thrust of this paper is to discuss the lasertron as the rf generator for free electron laser (FEL) rf systems. The author has developed a ring model of the lasertron device that shows excellent dc-to-rf conversion efficiency at high output power over the 400-1700 MHz frequency range. The issue of the lasertron advantages at higher average output power is also explored. First-order estimates of the weight versus frequency and power are also made. An outline of an experiment that uses the Los Alamos photoinjector to make a lasertron is also presented.
Structural proteins of bacteriophage T5.

Abstract Analysis by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has revealed that bacteriophage T5 contains at least 15 different polypeptides, five of which are associated with the head. The head has one major protein with a molecular weight of about 32,000 daltons, representing about 65% of the total protein. The major protein of the tail has a molecular weight of about 51,000 daltons and represents approximately 17% of the total protein of the phage. No detectable differences were noted between the structural proteins of T5 + and its heat-stable mutant, T5st. Purified capsids or “ghosts,” prepared by treatment with lithium chloride, lacked at least two minor head proteins. However, these proteins were still found in ghosts prepared by freeze-thawing. Amber mutants defective in structural genes were isolated and partially characterized. Some of these mutants produced functional heads or tails under restrictive conditions. T5st am N5 induced the production of empty defective heads, which were normal in size, but lacked a protein, which normally accounts for about 6% of the total protein of the phage.
Abstract A125: Self reported exposure to pesticides and risk of breast cancer

Abstracts: Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research 2008 A125 Background Several studies have examined the possible role of serum organochlorine pesticide and PCBs levels in the development of breast cancer over the past decade, but there is little data on self-reported residential exposures. Methods This was a case control study conducted in New York City and the surrounding area that included 1204 patients (446 cases and 758 controls). Cases were defined as women with newly diagnosed breast cancer or carcinoma in situ, while patients with benign breast diseases and women undergoing non-breast related surgery were included in the control group. All patients were asked a series of questions to determine their pesticide exposure, including the type, location (inside vs. outside), who applied the pesticide, and duration of pesticide use. Logistic regression models were used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results The most common pests encountered in the residences were ants, carpenter ants and cockroaches. The adjusted odds ratio for self-application of pesticide and professional application for this group of pests was 1.25(95%CI 0.79-1.98) and 1.06(95% CI 0.65-1.73) respectively. The risk did not vary when comparing inside and outside applications, (OR= 1.13(95% CI 0.75-1.72) and 1.22(95% CI 0.60-2.50) respectively. Tests for trend showed no dose-response relationship with each type of application. Conclusion Our study did not show an association between self-reported exposure to pesticides and breast cancer risk, which is consistent with the vast majority of studies including our own that showed no increased risk of breast cancer with biological levels of pesticides. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):A125.
Latency meter: a device end-to-end latency of VE systems

The effectiveness of virtual environment systems depends critically on the end-to-end delay between the user's motion and the update of the display. When the user moves, the graphics system must update the images on the display to reflect the proper projection of the virtual world on their field of vision. Significant delay in this update is perceived as swimming of the virtual world; objects in the virtual wold appear to follow the user's motions. We are developing a standalone instrument that quickly estimates end-to-end latency without requiring electrical connections or changes to the VE software. We believe that a method for easily monitoring latency will change the way programmers and users work. Our latency meter works by observing the user's motion and the display's response using high-speed optical sensors. When the user rocks back and forth, the display exhibits a similar but delayed rocking of objects in the user's field of vision. We process the signals from the optical sensors to extract the times of very slow iamge change corresponding to the times when the user is nearly stopped (just before reversing direction). By correlating a sequence of these turn-around points in the two signals we can accurately estimate the end-to-end system delay.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rapid isolation of DNA from trypanosomatid protozoa using a simple ‘mini-prep’ procedure

Abstract Although several methods for isolating genomic DNA from trypanosomatid protozoa exist [1–3], all are time-consuming and cumbersome. Faster, simpler and efficient protocols for preparation of DNA from these protozoa are needed to ease the screening of mutants and transfectants. We describe the use of a bacterial lysis method to isolate chromosomal DNA from a wide range of trypanosomatids. The method is based on the finding reported by He et al. [4], who noticed that phenol/chloroform treatment of Escherichia coli cells in the presence of LiC1 and Triton X-100 solubilizes plasmid DNA, while precipitating unwanted chromosomal DNA and denatured cellular proteins. In applying this lysis method to the isolation of episomal DNA from transfected trypanosomatids, we found that, unlike bacterial genomic DNA, chromosomal DNA of trypanosomatids was soluble in the phenol/chloroform/Triton/LiC1 mixture. This observation prompted us to use the bacterial lysis method as a routine protocol for extraction of DNA from trypanosomatids.
Isolation and characterization of further defective clones of a temperature sensitive mutant (ts-1) of respiratory syncytial virus

After exposure of the temperature sensitivets-1 mutant of respiratory syncytial virus to the chemical mutagen, nitrosoguanidine (NG), 2 clones of virus were recovered which were more temperature sensitive and stable genetically than thets-1 mutant. The initial criterion used for selection of the 2 clones was decreased ability to produce plaques at 36° C. Subsequently it was shown that the 2 clones grew less well at the restrictive temperatures of 37° and 38° C than did thets-1 parent. Peak titers of the NG derived clones were decreased 10–30 told at 37° C and over 100-fold at 38° C compared tots-1. Complementation analysis indicated that the NG mutants retained the same complementation pattern as thets-1 parent.
Residency and movement patterns of bonnethead sharks, Sphyrna tiburo, in a large Florida estuary

The use of a coastal estuary by bonnethead sharks, Sphyrna tiburo, was examined by acoustic monitoring, gillnet sampling and tag- recapture studies. Acoustic monitoring data were used to define the residency and movement patterns of sharks within Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor, Florida. Sharks were monitored for periods of 1–173 days with individuals regularly moving in and out of the detection range of the acoustic system. Patterns of movement could not be correlated with tidal level or time of day. Home range sizes within the Pine Island Sound population were typically small with individuals using core areas on a daily basis. However, core areas shifted within the study site over time resulting in eventual usage of most of the available habitat. Gillnet sampling revealed that S. tiburo were abundant in shallow water near seagrass beds, but that presence of individuals at specific sites was variable. Tag-recapture data showed that most individuals remained within the Pine Island Sound region over time and did not appear to undergo long coastal migrations. The movement and residence patterns of S. tiburo suggest that individuals are resident within the estuary, but do not show site fidelity to specific areas within the estuary.
A double-blind controlled trial of azathioprine in chronic actinic dermatitis

Chronic actinic dermatitis is a rare, idiopathic, eczematous photodermatosis which is usually severe and refractory to treatment, although spontaneous improvement may occur.1 Retrospective assessment has indicated that azathioprine may be a useful mode of treatment.2 A doubleblind controlled trial was therefore carried out to confirm its efficacy. All patients were investigated by irradiation monochromator testing of the skin of the back to establish abnormal reactions to ultraviolet (UV) and visible radiation. Patch and photopatch tests excluded causative allergic contact and photocontact dermatitis. Eighteen severely affected patients were sequentially and randomly allocated to azathioprine 50 mg t.d.s. or placebo therapy over a 2year period. Patients wore polysulphonefilm lapel badges, changed weekly throughout the trial. The change in absorbance of the polysulphone film as measured spectrophotometrically before and after exposure enabled quantification of ambient exposure to UVB radiation. Patients documented severity of itching and rash weekly on a 10 cm visual analogue scale. Rash, corticosteroid use and sunscreen use were assessed monthly at the clinic, as were haematology, liver function and renal function. Six men and two women (mean age 64 years) received active and 10 men (mean age 66 years) placebo therapy. Patients on active treatment had more severe clinical features and monochromator test reactions than those on placebo at the start of the trial. Mean duration of treatment was 8·4 months, range 1·5–12 months (active group) and 4·1 months, range 0·1-12 months (placebo group). Mean weekly UV exposure was greater in active group patients. Five of eight azathioprine-treated patients achieved remission and one improved within 3–12 months, one did not improve over 8 weeks and one defaulted early with gastrointestinal upset. None of 10 placebo patients improved, three defaulted within 1 month, the remainder being assessed for 3–12 months. The markedly and significantly better clinical status of actively treated patients (P≤0·001; chi-squared test) led to early termination of the trial. Thus azathioprine therapy is a well-tolerated effective treatment in chronic actinic dermatitis.
Implementation of Management Science in Latin America: A Case Study and Generalization

Private and public programs designed for rapid industrialization and for raising living standards have caused a growing demand in Latin America for persons trained in management science. Current sources for such training include special “productivity centers,” departments or institutes of management science at various Latin American universities, technical personnel of North American firms, and professional academicians of North American educational institutions. If the level of private business between North and South America increases, it would be quite reasonable for North American firms to assume a greater responsibility for the transfer of management science techniques to Latin America. This paper describes an actual case study of the application of management science to the business and operational problems of a Latin American meat processing firm. Located in Paraguay, the firm is a subsidiary of a large multi-management company---Ogden Corporation. In conjunction with the local management, the study was conducted by Ogden's department of Operations Research. The following aspects of the Latin American firm were analyzed for possible application of management science techniques: 1 organization structure, 2 ranch operations, 3 product mix problems, 4 investment analysis, and 5 inventory control. Based on Ogden's experiences in a typical Latin American business setting, we attempt here to describe some of the present problems and the future potential for management science applications in Latin America. Major problems of implementation identified in this case and considered typical to Latin America are: 1 lack of qualified personnel, 2 lack of EDP facilities, and 3 existence of traditional cultural and political barriers to scientific approaches. However, because of a rising technological function, management science application offers a fertile territory in Latin America.
Microelectrophoresis devices with integrated fluorescence detectors and reactors for high-throughput DNA sequencing

This work describes the development of micro-devices for high-throughput DNA sequencing applications. Basically, two research efforts will be discussed; (1) fabrication and characterization of micro-reactors to prepare Sanger chain terminated DNA sequencing fragments on a nanoliter scale and; (2) x-ray photolithography of PMMA substrates for the high aspect ratio preparation of electrophoresis devices. The micro-reactor consisted of a 5'-biotinylated catfish olfactory gene, which was amplified by PCR, and attached to the interior wall of an aminoalkylisilane derivatized fused- silica capillary tube via a streptavidin/biotin linkage. Coverage of the interior capillary wall with biotinylated DNA averaged 77 percent. Stability of the anchored template under pressure and electroosmotic rinsing was favorable, requiring approximately 150 h of continuous rinsing to reduce the coverage by only 50 percent. The capillary micro- reactor was placed inside an air thermocycler to control temperature during Sanger ddNTP chain extension and directly coupled to a capillary separation column filled with a LPA solution via low dead volume capillary interlocks. The complimentary DNA fragments generated in the reactor were heat denatured from the immobilized template and directly injected onto a gel-filled capillary using electropumping for size fractionation and detection using NIR-LIF analysis. The total amount of termination fragments in the 31 nL reactor volume was estimated to be 5.2 X 1013 moles and sequencing was shown to produce read lengths on the order to 400 bases. Work will also be described concerning the development of micro-electrophoresis devices in x-ray sensitive photoresists using LIGA techniques. An electrophoresis device with an integrated fluorescence detector was constructed for the high resolution separation of DNA oligonucleotides. The choice of substrate for the electrophoresis was PMMA, due to its intrinsic low electroosmotic flow. Using x-ray lithography in PMMA substrates, the aspect ratios associated with the micromachining was estimated to be > 10,000:1.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Oxidation and crystallization of Zr-based bulk metallic glass due to machining

Abstract Bulk metallic glass was subjected to extreme deformation conditions during machining operation. The flash temperature, oxidation and crystallization within chips from a Zr-based bulk metallic glass were investigated. A near-infrared spectrometer was used to capture the light emission from the tool-chip interface allowing the calculation of the temperature. Very high temperatures in the 2400–2700 K range were observed and associated with the light emission and oxidation in the chips. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed oxidation of chips machined at high cutting speeds. Optical micrographs of polished and etched chip cross-sections showed a dendritic pattern due to crystallization. Using a field emission gun SEM, amorphous and crystalline regions were analyzed. This study demonstrates the oxidation and crystallization of bulk metallic glass during machining.
Basic mechanisms of humoral rejection

Humoral rejection is among the most vexing problems afflicting organ transplants. Triggered by antibodies predominantly against donor human leukocyte (HLA), humoral rejection can now be understood through consideration of basic mechanisms of immunity to foreign antigens and impact of humoral immunity on blood vessels. Basic considerations may also shed light on mechanisms by which various treatments have recently brought about vastly improved outcomes.
On the existence of simplex spaces

We give several general theorems to facilitate the construction of examples of simplex spaces.
Degree‐of‐readiness classification system for foods: development, testing and use

A 14 category degree-of-readiness classification scheme was developed for foods used in at-home consumption. The codes were further aggregated to three categories: no preparation, some preparation and considerable preparation. The classification system was tested with two groups of consumers and was found to be acceptable both by experienced and inexperienced food preparers. When nationwide household food consumption data were categorized by this system, the majority of most frequently reported foods required no preparation in the home prior to consumption.
Software engineering tools and environments: a roadmap

Tools and environments to aid developers in producing software have existed, in one form or another, since the early days of computer programming. They are becoming increasingly crucial as the demand for software increases, time-to-market decreases, and diversity and complexity grow beyond anything imagined a few decades ago. In this paper, we briefly review some of the history of tools and environments in software engineering, and then discuss some key challenges that we believe the field faces over the next decade.
Breast-conservation treatment outcomes: a community hospital's experience.

: In the United States, the majority of early breast cancer patients choose breast-conserving treatment in the community setting, yet there is a paucity of literature describing outcomes. In this paper, we describe our experience with breast-conserving treatment in a small community hospital. Our hospital tumor registry was used to identify breast cancer cases diagnosed at our hospital between 1997 and 2003. We limited our study to those women with initial attempts at breast-conserving surgery (BCS) who had follow-up oncology treatment at on-campus affiliated oncological services. We looked at factors that influence survival for early stage 0–II disease such as tumor and patient characteristics, completeness of local surgical tumor excision, and adjuvant treatment. We also evaluated the percentage of cases in which the initial BCS did not achieve adequate surgical oncological results and the number and type of subsequent surgeries that were required to achieve this goal. There were 185 cases with a median patient age of 55 and a median follow-up time of 53 months. Most tumors were stage 0–I (68%) or stage II (23%). A single surgery was deemed sufficient to achieve the desired oncological outcome in 54% of cases; the remaining cases (46%) required additional surgeries. A final margin of 5 mm or greater was successfully achieved in 81% of cases. Ninety-two percent of the patients underwent radiotherapy, 65% received hormonal therapy, and 49% underwent chemotherapy. One hundred and sixty one patients had successful breast-conserving surgeries (87%) and 24 patients (13%) ultimately required mastectomy. There were four loco-regional recurrences and 19 deaths during the study period. Our disease-free survival rate for early-stage cancer (stage 0–II) was 91% at 5 years. Our study shows that high-quality patient outcomes for breast-conserving treatment can be achieved in the community setting.