— People looking for work by dialing a published phone number for the Maryland Job Service Hotline could end up with something completely different.

Dialing a phone number listed on the Family Health Administration’s Web site steered unsuspecting job seekers to women in the area looking for sex. The incorrect number was also listed in the a phone book and on other Web sites.

State officials say they are aware of the problem and are working to correct it.

— And finally, just in time for Fourth of July picnics:

Scientists in Texas report today that watermelons contain an ingredient called citrulline that can trigger production of a compound that helps relax the body’s blood vessels, similar to what happens when a man takes Viagra.

Found in the flesh and rind of watermelons, citrulline reacts with the body’s enzymes when consumed in large quantities and is changed into arginine, an amino acid that benefits the heart and the circulatory and immune systems.

“Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it,” said Bhimu Patil, a researcher and director of Texas A&M’s Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center. “Watermelon may not be as organ-specific as Viagra, but it’s a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side effects.”

— Have a happy and safe Fourth of July weekend. Mid-Daily Items will return on Monday.