cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of surface tension on the dislocation structures of diblock copolymers

Cross-sectional and plane view TEM, in conjunction with atomic force microscopy (AFM), was used to study the dislocations produced within PS−PVP diblock copolymer films. The results showed that islands or holes on the surface of multilayer films were produced by prismatic loop dislocations with a screw component in the layers below the surface. Only the contours at the vacuum surface obtained by AFM could be fit with classical elasticity theory. Flattening of the surface by the surface tension when the films were ordered on a silicon substrate induced a large amount of compression in the lamella beneath the surface. In films less than 3/2 lamellar layers thick, this compression is shown to induce a transition from lamellar to perpendicular cylinders at the edge of the island or holes. This transition was suppressed when the diblock copolymer molecular weight was decreased or when the films were ordered at a low surface tension interface. A qualitative model which estimates the degree of chain stretching i...
One dimensional uniqueness and convergence criteria for exchangeable processes

Abstract If X and X 1 , X 2 ,… are exchangeable processes on [0, 1] or R + , such that X n (t) → d X(t) for all t , then X n → d X , provided that X is continuous or ergodic and satisfies certain moment conditions. It is in fact enough to assume convergence for t restricted to some suitable subset. The proof uses analytic properties of the characteristics functions, and results about the local behavior of an exchangeable process at the origin.
Role of N-linked polymannose oligosaccharides in targeting glycoproteins for endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation.

Misfolded or incompletely assembled multisubunit glycoproteins undergo endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) regulated in large measure by their N-linked polymannose oligosaccharides. In this quality control system lectin interaction with Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 glycans after trimming with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) α-glucosidases and α-mannosidases sorts out persistently unfolded glycoproteins for N-deglycosylation and proteolytic degradation. Monoglucosylated (Glc1Man9GlcNAc2) glycoproteins take part in the calnexin/calreticulin glucosylation-deglucosylation cycle, while the Man8GlcNAc2 isomer B product of ER mannosidase I interacts with EDEM. Proteasomal degradation requires retrotranslocation into the cytosol through a Sec61 channel and deglycosylation by peptide: N-glycosidase (PNGase); in alternate models both PNGase and proteasomes may be either free in the cytosol or ER membrane-imbedded/attached. Numerous proteins appear to undergo nonproteasomal degradation in which deglycosylation and proteolysis take place in the ER lumen. The released free oligosaccharides (OS) are transported to the cytosol as OS-GlcNAc2 along with similar components produced by the hydrolytic action of the oligosaccharyltransferase, where they together with OS from the proteasomal pathway are trimmed to Man5GlcNAc1 by the action of cytosolic endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase and α-mannosidase before entering the lysosomes. Some misfolded glycoproteins can recycle between the ER, intermediate and Golgi compartments, where they are further processed before ERAD. Moreover, properly folded glycoproteins with mannose-trimmed glycans can be deglucosylated in the Golgi by endomannosidase, thereby releasing calreticulin and permitting formation of complex OS. A number of regulatory controls have been described, including the glucosidase-glucosyltransferase shuttle, which controls the level of Glc3Man9GlcNAc2-P-P-Dol, and the unfolded protein response, which enhances synthesis of components of the quality control system.
The origin of Himalayan anatexis and inverted metamorphism: Models and constraints

Abstract The key to comprehending the tectonic evolution of the Himalaya is to understand the relationships between large-scale faulting, anatexis, and inverted metamorphism. The great number and variety of mechanisms that have been proposed to explain some or all of these features reflects the fact that fundamental constraints on such models have been slow in coming. Recent developments, most notably in geophysical imaging and geochronology, have been key to coalescing the results of varied Himalayan investigations into constraints with which to test proposed evolutionary models. These models fall into four general types: (1) the inverted metamorphic sequences within the footwall of the Himalayan thrust and adjacent hanging wall anatexis are spatially and temporally related by thrusting; (2) thrusting results from anatexis; (3) anatexis results from normal faulting; and (4) apparent inverted metamorphism in the footwall of the Himalayan thrust is produced by underplating of right-way-up metamorphic sequences. We review a number of models and find that many are inconsistent with available constraints, most notably the recognition that the exposed crustal melts and inverted metamorphic sequences not temporally related. The generalization that appears to best explain the observed distribution of crustal melts and inverted metamorphic sequences is that, due to specific petrological and tectonic controls, episodic magmatism and out-of-sequence thrusting developed during continuous convergence juxtaposing allochthonous igneous and metamorphic rocks. This coincidental juxtaposition has proven to be something of a red herring, unduly influencing attention toward finding a causal relationship between anatexis and inverted metamorphism.
Cholesterol Lowering in the Management of Coronary Artery Disease: The Clinical Implications of Recent Trials

Atherosclerotic vascular disease is the major cause of death and disability in adult men and women living in the United States, where 13-14 million adults have a history of coronary artery disease (CAD). One-third of the 1.5 million individuals who experience a myocardial infarction (MI) each year will die and one half of these deaths will occur within 60 minutes of the event. The relation between elevated serum lipids and CAD has been corroborated by epidemiologic as well as pathologic evidence. Approximately 96 million people have total cholesterol levels > 200 mg/dL, with 38 million of these individuals having values > 240 mg/ dL. The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) identified elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol as a primary risk factor for CAD in 1988. This conclusion, along with recommendations for assessment and treatment, was reaffirmed in 1993. The NCEP also recommended that high-risk patients, with or without clinical manifestations of coronary atherosclerosis, should substantially lower their serum cholesterol levels. Specifically, the NCEP recommends that patients with CAD need to maintain serum LDL cholesterol levels of or = 30%. Aggressive dietary and/or drug therapy are recommended to achieve these reductions. In recent years, clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors ("statins") in lowering elevated levels of LDL cholesterol and decreasing the risk for clinical coronary events.
Semi-regular mesh extraction from volumes

We present a novel method to extract iso-surfaces from distance volumes. It generates high quality semi-regular multiresolution meshes of arbitrary topology. Our technique proceeds in two stages. First, a very coarse mesh with guaranteed topology is extracted. Subsequently an iterative multi-scale force-based solver refines the initial mesh into a semi-regular mesh with geometrically adaptive sampling rate and good aspect ratio triangles. The coarse mesh extraction is performed using a new approach we call surface wavefront propagation. A set of discrete iso-distance ribbons are rapidly built and connected while respecting the topology of the iso-surface implied by the data. Subsequent multi-scale refinement is driven by a simple force-based solver designed to combine good iso-surface fit and high quality sampling through reparameterization. In contrast to the Marching Cubes technique our output meshes adapt gracefully to the iso-surface geometry, have a natural multiresolution structure and good aspect ratio triangles, as demonstrated with a number of examples.
Advances in germanium detector technology

This paper summarizes some of the recent advances in high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector technologies and their applications. These important advances were driven by the necessity to support the recent increase in applications, uses and requirements for germanium detectors. Performances of single and multi-element closely packed HPGe detector arrays are discussed for various applications. Some of the developmental work to further improve the packing density of both large and small germanium detectors by using monolithic segmentation technology is presented along with the results. Monolithically segmented large germanium detectors are described which have high efficiency and high-energy resolution. Such detectors supply both interaction position and energy information of incident high-energy photons thereby providing powerful tools for gamma-ray tracking, polarimetry studies, low-energy filtration, and low-energy background rejection, etc. Monolithically segmented small germanium detectors provide improved solid angle ratio in X-ray detection systems without sacrificing energy resolution or throughput. Advancements in this detector technology are required for the fourth-generation Synchrotron Light Sources that are at the planning stage. This paper also reports on a revolutionary monolithic structure that is believed to be the first ever fabricated on large HPGe crystal.
Threonine-4 of the budding yeast RNAP II CTD couples transcription with Htz1-mediated chromatin remodeling.

The C-terminal domain (CTD) of the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) consists of repeated YSPTSPS heptapeptides and connects transcription with cotranscriptional events. Threonine-4 (Thr4) of the CTD repeats has been shown to function in histone mRNA 3′-end processing in chicken cells and in transcriptional elongation in human cells. Here, we demonstrate that, in budding yeast, Thr4, although dispensable for growth in rich media, is essential in phosphate-depleted or galactose-containing media. Thr4 is required to maintain repression of phosphate-regulated (PHO) genes under normal growth conditions and for full induction of PHO5 and the galactose-induced GAL1 and GAL7 genes. We identify genetic links between Thr4 and the histone variant Htz1 and show that Thr4, as well as the Ino80 chromatin remodeler, is required for activation-associated eviction of Htz1 specifically from promoters of the Thr4-dependent genes. Our study uncovers a connection between transcription and chromatin remodeling linked by Thr4 of the CTD.
Noncompaction of Ventricular Myocardium Associated With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Polycystic Kidney Disease

Noncompaction of ventricular myocardium (NVM), a relatively new diagnostic entity, is described as an arrest in the process of compaction of myocardial fibers, which results in a prominent trabecular network and deep intertrabecular recesses. Its coexistence with other cardiac anomalies like hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) or polycystic kidney disease (PKD) had been reported in the past. We report the first case with all 3 different inherent conditions (NVM, HOCM, and PKD) manifesting in 1 patient. A 37-year-old man was referred for evaluation of a heart murmur. His medical history was positive for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Physical examination revealed a grade 3/6 systolic murmur loudest along the left sternal border accentuating on Valsalva maneuver. Echocardiography revealed HOCM. Cardiac magnetic resonance confirmed the presence of HOCM with the incidental finding of NVM and PKD. This case raises the possibility of genetic mutation common to these 3 clinical entities or 2 different gene mutations existing in the same individual.
Reinforcing Children's Effort: A Comparison of Immigrant, Native-Born Mexican American and Euro-American Mothers

The present study examined the role of success, failure, and effort in the reinforcement practices of immigrant, and nativeborn Mexican American mothers and compared them to a baseline group of middle-class Euro-American mothers. Mothers viewed a videotape depicting a seven-year-old male confederate either succeeding or failing on a novel task while displaying varying amounts of effort. Mothers also completed a subjective rating scale in order to determine the effectiveness of the effort variable. Overall, contingent reinforcement was observed among all mothers. However, under conditions of high effort-failure, native born-Mexican American and Euro-American mothers gave more reinforcements than immigrant Mexican American mothers. Under conditions of low effort-success, immigrant Mexican American and Euro-American mothers gave more reinforcements than native-born Mexican American mothers. Results are discussed in terms of selective immigration of Mexican-born mothers and acculturation to United States society.
Pairwise and General Independence of Abstract Algebras

During the past few years a number of papers have appeared in which independence within classes of abstract algebras, as defined by Foster in [3], is studied. A common approach is to show that any two of the algebras under consideration are independent and then to show that this implies an arbitrary finite set of them are (see [3-6], [8]). In particular, the following theorem of Foster is proved in this manner.
Optimal detection strategies for an established invasive pest

We model optimal detection of sub-populations of invasive species that establish ahead of an advancing front. For many invaders, eradication of the main population is an untenable goal, yet it may be possible to treat and eradicate emerging sub-populations once these sub-populations are detected. We embed a dynamically optimal post-detection management plan of sub-populations into a model of optimal detection effort determination and find that optimal detection effort depends, in part, on the distance from the main front: locations closer to the front with shorter management horizons enjoy lower reductions in overall cost from intervention. The uninfested landscape is divided into two zones, characterized by different dynamically optimal management plans: a suppression zone and an eradication zone. In the suppression zone, optimal detection effort increases with distance from the front. At the distance where the suppression zone yields to the eradication zone, optimal detection effort plateaus at its maximum level.
Garcinol sensitizes human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells to gemcitabine in association with microRNA signatures.

Background Alterations in microRNA (miRNA/miR) genes are of biological importance in the pathophysiology of cancers, including pancreatic cancer (PaCa). Although growing evidence supports the role of miRNA in cancer, their response to dietary phytochemicals is less known. Previously, we showed that garcinol induces PaCa cell growth arrest and apoptosis in vitro. The present study, discusses chemo-sensitization by garcinol in synergism with first-line PaCa drug, gemcitabine. The miRNA expression profile of gemcitabine-resistant Panc-1 cells treated with garcinol and/or gemcitabine was also evaluated. Methods and results Garcinol synergizes with gemcitabine to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in PaCa cells with significant modulation of key cancer regulators including PARP, VEGF, MMPs, ILs, caspases, and NF-κB. In addition, biostatistical analyses, quantitative reverse transcription PCR data, and in silico modeling using TargetScan5, PicTar, and DNA intelligent analysis, microT-V.B4 database showed that these two agents modulated a number of microRNAs (miR-21, miR-196a, miR-495, miR-605, miR-638, and miR-453) linked to various canonical oncogenic signaling pathways. Conclusion We identified garcinol-specific miRNA biomarkers that sensitize PaCa cells to gemcitabine treatment, thus attenuating the drug-resistance phenotype. These results prompt further interest in garcinol and gemcitabine combination strategy as a drug modality to improve treatment outcome in patients diagnosed with PaCa.
Economic transformations of nonmonetary benefits in program evaluation

The perennial problem of comparing apples to oranges finds hope for relief by assessing the preferences of decision makers and stakeholders in public policy decisions.
Prophylaxis and Treatment of Menstrual Migraine

Abstract Migraine is a very disabling condition that can severely impair quality of life. Eighteen percent of women suffer from migraine headaches, and of those, approximately 60% have migraines near the time of their menstrual period. Migraine is generally undertreated, not only because some sufferers do not have access to proper care, but also because many fail to seek treatment because of misperceptions that nothing can be done for a condition from which generations of women have suffered. Research has shown that migraine is not a disorder of blood vessels, but rather a brain disorder characterized by inflammation. The goal of this paper is to explain practical approaches to managing menstrual migraine.
Architecture of an integrated computer-aided design system for optoelectronics

To design and package optoelectronic (OE) systems more effectively, computer-aided design (CAD) systems are needed in the engineering environment. The use of CAD systems for designing electronic computing systems is well accepted by the electronic community. CAD systems for engineering optical design are also widely used in the optics community. However, design automation of OE engineering requires more than the existing tools for system component design. Also required is research on OE design methodology and a complete set of tools. We explore a new area that will be important to OE system design: OE system CAD. We present an integrated CAD system for free-space optical interconnected optoelectronics that leverages on existing CAD technologies. The details of the system and the guidelines for developing compatible tools are described. Case studies of two OE CAD tools developed using these guidelines are also presented.
Depression: A repair response to stress-induced neuronal microdamage that can grade into a chronic neuroinflammatory condition?

Depression is a major contributor to the global burden of disease and disability, yet it is poorly understood. Here we review data supporting a novel theoretical model for the biology of depression. In this model, a stressful life event leads to microdamage in the brain. This damage triggers an injury repair response consisting of a neuroinflammatory phase to clear cellular debris and a spontaneous tissue regeneration phase involving neurotrophins and neurogenesis. During healing, released inflammatory mediators trigger sickness behavior and psychological pain via mechanisms similar to those that produce physical pain during wound healing. The depression remits if the neuronal injury repair process resolves successfully. Importantly, however, the acute psychological pain and neuroinflammation often transition to chronicity and develop into pathological depressive states. This hypothesis for depression explains substantially more data than alternative models, including why emerging data show that analgesic, anti-inflammatory, pro-neurogenic and pro-neurotrophic treatments have antidepressant effects. Thus, an acute depressive episode can be conceptualized as a normally self-limiting but highly error-prone process of recuperation from stress-triggered neuronal microdamage.
The effects of group decisions and group-shifts on use of the anchoring and adjustment heuristic

The use of the anchoring and adjustment heuristic by individuals and groups was examined. Subjects were either in a high or low anchor condition, and made decisions as individuals (pregroup), within groups, and then again as individuals (postgroup). Within-subject measurements were made to determine the extent of groups’ use of the anchoring and adjustment heuristic, and the extent of group-shifts. The results indicate that groups are susceptible to anchoring effects in a manner similar to those of individuals. Additionally, a group-shift effect was noted, whereby group discussion allowed subjects’ decision choices to move further from the anchor levels than the pregroup-individuals’ choices. This further move from the anchor remained after the groups disbanded.
Analytic solution of the growth-site probability distribution for structural models of diffusion-limited aggregation.

We present an analytic solution of the growth-site probability distribution for a family of hierarchical models for the structure of diffusion-limited aggregation (DLA) clusters. These models are characterized by self-similar voids that are delineated by narrow channels. The growth-site probability distributions for all the models are shown to have the same form, n(\ensuremath{\alpha},M)\ensuremath{\sim}exp{-(A/lnM)[\ensuremath{\alpha}-${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}_{0}$(M)${]}^{2}$}, where n(\ensuremath{\alpha},M)d\ensuremath{\alpha} is the number of growth sites with \ensuremath{\alpha}-ln${\mathit{p}}_{\mathit{i}}$/lnM+d\ensuremath{\alpha}, ${\mathit{p}}_{\mathit{i}}$ is the growth probability at site i, M is the cluster mass, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}_{0}$(M)==B lnM, and A,B are constants. We find the same form of the distribution for all members of the family of models, suggesting the possibility that it is a consequence of the channels and self-similar voids, and is independent of other details of the model. Our result is in accord with the recent calculations for DLA clusters by Schwarzer et al. [Phys. Rev. A 43, 1134 (1991)].
Relationship of induced motion and apparent straight-ahead shifts to optokinetic stimulus velocity

Induced motion (IM) of a fixated spot stimulus and shifts of the apparent straight-ahead (ASA) from the objective median plane were studied as a function of the velocity of a full-field optokinetic background stimulus. Both IM and ASA were influenced similarly by changes in stimulus velocity. The magnitude of both responses, averaged across subjects, increased to a peak level with background velocities of 40-80 deg/sec and decreased at higher velocities. Individual subjects differed with respect to the precise functions by which IM and ASA shifts were related to stimulus velocity. However, for individual subjects, the effects of velocity on IM and ASA shifts were typically highly correlated. Although IM is correlated with shifts of ASA in the opposite direction, the magnitude of the ASA shift is insufficient to account for the observed IM.
Are They Here for the Long Haul? The Effects of Functional Motives and Personality Factors on the Psychological Contracts of Volunteers:

In this article, the author discusses the concepts of the psychological contract, functional motivation, and the five-factor model of personality and explains how these should relate to one another...
Telomerase RNA Bound by Protein Motifs Specific to Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) differs from many other reverse transcriptases in that it remains stably associated with its template-containing RNA subunit. Elements of TERT involved in binding the RNA subunit have now been identified by mutagenesis and in vitro reconstitution of the Tetrahymena ribonucleoprotein complex. Mutations in the reverse transcriptase motifs of TERT reduced activity as expected but did not greatly reduce its binding to the telomerase RNA. In contrast, all mutations in the T and CP motifs dramatically reduced RNA binding. We therefore suggest that the T and CP motifs of TERT function to hold on to the telomerase RNA, leaving the RNA template region free to translocate through the RT domain.
Risk aversion and self-insurance

This paper considers the effects of an increase in risk aversion on self-insurance. More risk-averse individuals invest more in self-insurance in the case of two states of the world. However, with more than two states, this standard conclusion does not hold. The reason is that self-insurance does not necessarily reduce larger losses more effectively than smaller losses. Self-insurance thus may not serve as insurance, and more risk-averse individuals may invest more or less in self-insurance. The paper provides a condition for more risk-averse individuals to invest more in self-insurance, and a condition for them to invest less.
Characterization of Low Km GTPase Activity in Rat Brain: Comparison of Opioid and Muscarinic Receptor Stimulation

Guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP)-binding proteins (G-proteins) have an essential role in mediating the actions of drugs on neurotransmitter receptors by coupling them to their effectors with the attendant hydrolysis of GTP. The resulting GTPase activity was characterized in rat brain with a view toward selecting conditions under which specific hormone-stimulated activity could be monitored. Kinetic analysis with washed membranes suggested the presence of two distinct GTPases, a low Km GTPase with an apparent Km value of 0.35 +/- 0.04 microM and apparent Vmax of 108 pmol min-1 mg protein-1, together with a much higher Km component. Low Km (but not high Km) GTPase activity is stimulated by muscarinic and opioid agonists and inhibited by a nonhydrolyzable analogue of GTP, providing further evidence that the low Km component is a distinct enzyme. The activity of the low Km component is a linear function of protein concentration (20-100 micrograms/mL), time (2-10 min), and temperature (25-37 degrees C). The specific activity of the low Km component is selectively increased by approximately 50% in purified synaptic membranes compared with the washed membrane preparation. Both carbamylcholine-stimulated and basal low Km GTPase activities, but not the high Km component, are inhibited by a nonhydrolyzable analogue of GTP but not by the comparable analogue of ATP, demonstrating the specificity of low Km GTPase for guanine nucleotides. Opioid- and muscarinic-stimulated GTPase activities are additive in brain, suggesting that the two receptor systems are associated with different domains of G-proteins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Biopan-survival I: exposure of the osmophiles synechococcus sp. (Nageli) and haloarcula sp. to the space environment

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the survivability of osmophilic microorganisms in space, as well as examine the DNA breakage in osmophilic cells exposed to solar UV-radiation plus vacuum and to vacuum only. The organisms used were an unidentified species of Synechococcus (Nageli) that inhabits the evaporitic gypsum-halite crusts that form along the marine intertidal, and an unidentified species of the extremely halophilic genus Haloarcula (designated as isolate G) isolated from a evaporitic NaCl crystal. Because these organisms are desiccation resistant and gypsum-halite as well as NaCl attenuate UV-radiation, we hypothesized that these organisms would survive in the space environment, better than most others. The organisms were exposed to the space environment for 2 weeks while in earth orbit aboard the Biopan facility. Ground controls were tested in a space simulation facility. All samples were compared to unexposed samples. Survivability was determined by plate counts and the most probable number technique. DNA breakage was determined by labeling breaks in the DNA with 32 P followed by translation. Results indicate that the osmophilic microbes survived the 2 week exposure. The major cause of cell death was DNA damage. The number of strand breaks in the DNA from vacuum UV exposed cells was greater than the vacuum only exposed cells.
Leukotrienes and airway inflammation.

Abstract Background Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by airway obstruction and hyperresponsiveness. Leukotrienes (LTs) are lipid mediators that contribute to many aspects of asthma pathogenesis. As the LT pathway is relatively steroid-resistant, its blockade by alternative strategies is a desirable component of asthma management. Cysteinyl LT (cysLT) receptor 1 antagonists (LTRAs) have been utilized worldwide for more than 10 years, and while their efficacy in asthma is well accepted, their limitations are also evident. Scope of Review In this review, we summarize the biological effects of LTs in asthma, review recent advances in LT receptors, and consider possible new therapeutic targets in the LT pathway that offer the potential to achieve better control of asthma in the future. Major Conclusions CysLTs play pathogenetic roles in many aspects of asthma, and blockade of cysLT receptor 1 by currently available LTRAs is certainly beneficial in disease management. On the other hand, the limitations of LTRAs are also apparent. Recent studies have revealed new receptors for cysLTs other than classical cysLT receptors 1 and 2, as well as the potential importance of LTB4 in asthma. General Significance Recent findings provide clues to new approaches for targeting the LT pathway that may overcome the current limitations of LTRAs and achieve superior control of asthma. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biochemistry of Asthma.
Self correlations in gases of linear molecules with application to thermal-neutron scattering

Abstract A phenomenological linear Boltzmann equation is derived to study the classical motion of a rigid linear test molecule in a gaseous medium. The state of the molecule is defined by its center- of-mass coordinate and velocity, rotation frequency, orientation of its angular momentum and a rotor phase angle. The thermal-neutron scattering cross section is derived from a Fourier transform of a density distribution function which satisfies the Boltzmann equation with a suitable initial condition. Cross sections are calculated for some models to indicate the effect of coupling of center of mass and internal behavior.
Copulatory behaviour of rice rats (Oryzomys palustris)

Summary The copulatory patterns of rice rats ( Oryzomys palustris ) were studied in sixty-nine tests, each continued to a satiety criterion of ½ hr without an intromission. Females were in hormone-induced oestrus. The basic motor patterns resemble those of laboratory rats but are less exaggerated. There is a low ejaculation frequency with all tests terminating in fewer than four complete series. Copulation is resumed with a change of female. The second series is faster than either the first or the third as it contains fewer intromissions. Pursuit of the female by the male during the PEI is in dramatic contrast to the behaviour of all other species given systematic study. Female resistance plays an important role in the termination of copulation.
Simultaneous Coordination of a Nucleophile with a Bifunctional Lewis Acid Assembly Incorporating a Linked Phenoxide Ligand System

Addition of 4,4‘,4‘ ‘,4‘ ‘‘-tetra-tert-butyl-6,6‘,6‘ ‘,6‘ ‘‘-tetra-tert-butyl-2,2‘,2‘ ‘,2‘ ‘‘-(1,8-anthracenemethanediyl)tetraphenol (1) to a solution of Al2Me6 affords a tetranuclear aluminum species (2) which, upon heating, formed a binuclear species (3). Treatment of 3 with NEt4Cl allowed for the isolation of 4, a discrete bimetallic aluminum assembly wherein the two metals simultaneously coordinate an external nucleophile.
Risk management—a key to security in the electronic funds transfer system

Abstract The problems associated with security in the electronic funds transfer systems (EFTS) have been the subject of much research and concern in the business community. Consumers are especially wary of the possibilities of loss through EFTS transactions. Before widespread acceptance of the EPTS by consumers can occur, consumer anxiety about EFTS must be reduced. This article suggests a new approach to providing security in the EFTS based on the risk management process which provides techniques for the identification, evaluation, and handling of exposures to risk in the business enterprise. The risk management process can be very effective when applied to the problems associated with EFTS.
The prevalence of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted disease in women with symptoms of a simple urinary tract infection stratified by low colony count criteria.

Objectives Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and early pelvic infections due to sexually transmitted disease (STD) may cause similar symptoms. Therefore, a simple history and urine dip to establish a diagnosis of UTI may result in overtreatment of UTIs and undertreatment of STDs. The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of women with symptoms suggestive of a UTI who are urine culture positive versus urine culture negative, the prevalence of STDs between groups, and if elements of the history or examination may predict those requiring STD screening. Methods This was a prospective cohort study in an urban emergency department. Women 18-55 years of age with urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria, and no new vaginal discharge or change in discharge were enrolled. The following were performed: detailed history; bladder catheterization for urinalysis, urine dip, and urine culture; pelvic examination and cervical samples for gonorrhea and Chlamydia trachomatis DNA ligase; and wet mount examinations. Main outcome measurements were the percentage of women who were urine culture positive (using low count criteria of 10(2) colony-forming units [CFU]/mL), the proportion of STDs between urine culture groups, and univariate analysis and logistic regression of historical and examination elements. Results Ninety-two patients were enrolled; the mean age was 26 years (range, 18-51 years). All had samples for DNA ligase (one quantity not sufficient) and urinalysis or urine dip, while 75 of 92 had urine cultures performed. A total of 57.3% (43/75) were urine culture positive at 10(2) CFU/mL, while the STD rate for those with urine cultures was 17.3% (13/75). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of STDs between urine culture positive and urine culture negative groups. The only variable on logistic regression predictive of an STD (based on all 91 patients) was more than one sex partner in the past year (p = 0.013). No other element of the history or pelvic examination helped differentiate those who tested positive for an STD. Conclusions A total of 17.3% of women with symptoms of a UTI in this study had an STD, while only 57.3% were urine culture positive by catheterization using low count criteria. The proportion of STDs between those with and without a UTI was not significantly different.
Dynamics of controlled release of heparin from swellable crosslinked starch microspheres

The microspheres of crosslinked starch have been prepared and characterized by IR spectral analysis and SEM technique. The prepared microspheres were loaded with an anticoagulant drug ‘heparin’ and the kinetics of in-vitro release of heparin was investigated spectrophotometrically at physiological pH (7.4) and body temperature (37 °C). The influence of percent loading of heparin, chemical architecture of the microspheres and pH of the release medium were examined on the release profiles of the drug. The chemical stability of heparin was tested in phosphate buffer saline (pH 7.4) and the release was also studied in various simulated biological fluids.
Uses of autopolymerizing acrylic resins in fixed partial prosthesis

Abstract Self-curing acrylic resins have many possible uses for making temporary restorations. Many of these have been discussed and the techniques for making these temporary restorations have been described. There are many different variations for these procedures which will produce adequate results if they are properly controlled.
Gauge-Higgs Unification and Radiative Electroweak Symmetry Breaking in Warped Extra Dimensions

of large corrections to the T parameter and the coupling of the Z to the bottom quark. We demonstrate that electroweak symmetry breaking may be realized, with proper generation of the top and bottom quark masses for the same region of bulk mass parameters that lead to good agreement with precision electroweak data in the presence of a light Higgs. We compute the Higgs mass and demonstrate that for the range of parameters for which the Higgs boson has Standard Model-like properties, the Higgs mass is naturally in a range that varies between values close to the LEP experimental limit and about 160 GeV. This mass range may be probed at the Tevatron and at the LHC. We analyze the KK spectrum and briey discuss the phenomenology of the light resonances arising in our model.
Electrically stimulated gradients in water and counterion concentrations within electroactive polymer actuators

While ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) have been studied for more than 10 years, the specific actuation mechanism is still unclear. In this work, neutron imaging, applied potential atomic force microscopy (APAFM) and current sensing atomic force microscopy (CSAFM) methods are employed to fundamentally investigate the actuation mechanism of this electroactive polymer system. Direct neutron imaging allowed a mapping of the water–counterion concentration gradient profile (i.e., a non-flat optical density profile sloping from the cathode to the anode) across an IPMC cross-section. While the neutron imaging method was capable of visualizing inside an operating IPMC, APAFM–CSAFM characterized changes in the nanoscale morphology and local surface properties due to redistribution of water–counterions under electrical stimulation. In APAFM, the darker, more energy dissipative features disappeared as the applied bias was varied from 0 V to 3 V, indicating that the surface became dehydrated. Surface dehydration undoubtedly supports the concept of proton and water migration to the negatively charged substrate. Water–counterion redistribution was further evidenced by CSAFM. With a negatively charged substrate (a 2 V bias), 2.8 pA of the average current were detected over the perfluorosulfonate ionomer (PFSI) surface in contact with AFM tip, which suggests the depletion of positively charged cations on the surface. On the contrary, a positively charged substrate (a −2 V bias) led to the average current of −90 pA over the PFSI surface in contact with the AFM tip, which indicates the formation of a cation-rich fluid on the top surface of the PFSI membranes. The observed water–counterion redistribution upon electrical stimulation directly supports a hydraulic contribution to the overall mechanism of actuation in IPMCs.
Corporate social responsibility: A new perspective for alleviating poverty while maximizing profits

There is evident and mounting need in the poorest regions of the world for sustainable solutions to help individuals suffering from extreme poverty rise out of their current situation and onto a path of prosperity. Professionals and grassroots innovators worldwide have acknowledged this global issue and are responding with fervor by understanding the needs of individuals in underserved markets and then creating products that meet those needs. We provide a new conceptual model that has the potential to bridge the capacity of companies and the needs of the underserved, by harnessing the opportunity of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Analysts have suggested that CSR initiatives have the potential to effectively address global poverty and economic development issues. This paper makes a business case for corporations to align their CSR strategies with core business activities like design, development, and dissemination to encourage the availability of high quality, income-generating tools and products to people in developing countries at a low cost. This could lead to an exploration of the various possibilities of combining financial viability with social good, especially with the corporate sector today showing its willingness to interact closely with the non-profit sector.
Expression of VGF mRNA in developing neuroendocrine and endocrine tissues

Analysis of knockout mice suggests that the neurotropin-inducible secreted polypeptide VGF (non-acronymic) plays an important role in the regulation of energy balance. VGF is synthesized by neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems (CNS, PNS), as well as in the adult pituitary, adrenal medulla, endocrine cells of the stomach and pancreatic beta cells. Thus VGF, like cholecystokinin, leptin, ghrelin and other peptide hormones that have been shown to regulate feeding and energy expenditure, is synthesized in both the gut and the brain. Although detailed developmental studies of VGF localization in the CNS and PNS have been completed, little is known about the ontogeny of VGF expression in endocrine and neuroendocrine tIssues. Here, we report that VGF mRNA is detectable as early as embryonic day 15.5 in the developing rat gastrointestinal and esophageal lumen, pancreas, adrenal, and pituitary, and we further demonstrate that VGF mRNA is synthesized in the gravid rat uterus, together supporting possible functional roles for this polypeptide outside the nervous system and in the enteric plexus.
A look inside the courtroom: an analysis of 292 cosmetic breast surgery medical malpractice cases.

Background: Malpractice claims affect the cost and quality of health care. Objective: The authors examine litigation in cosmetic breast surgery and identify factors influencing malpractice litigation outcomes. Methods: The Westlaw database was searched for jury verdict and settlement reports related to medical malpractice and cosmetic breast surgeries. Cases included for analysis were examined for year, geographic location, patient demographics, procedure performed, alleged injury, causes of action, verdict, and indemnity payments. Results: Of 292 cases, the most common injury sustained was disfigurement (53.1%). Negligent misrepresentation had a 98% greater chance of resolution in favor of the plaintiff (reative risk [RR], 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41–2.79), and fraud had a 92% greater chance of disposition in favor of the plaintiff (RR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.32–2.80). The most common causes of action cited were negligence (88.7%) and lack of informed consent (43.8%). One hundred sixty-nine (58.3%) cases resulted in favor of the defendant and 121 (41.7%) cases were disposed in favor of the plaintiff; 97 (33.4%) cases resulted in damages awarded and 24 (8.3%) cases resulted in settlement. No significant difference was found between the medians of indemnity payments awarded to plaintiffs ($245 000) and settlements ($300 000). Conclusions: Based on this study, negligent or intentional misrepresentation strongly favors plaintiffs in either awarded damages or settlements in cases of cosmetic breast surgery litigation. This study emphasizes that transparency and adequate communication are at the crux of the physician-patient relationship and are tools by which plastic surgeons may reduce the frequency of litigations, thereby containing health care costs at a minimum.
Social Cognitive Theory in Cultural Context

La theorie socio-cognitive adopte une perspective d’action pour ce qui est du developpement, de l’adaptation et du changement humains. Cette theorie distingue trois types d’action: l’action personnelle exercee individuellement, l’action par procuration ou l’on s’assure de beneﬁces desires en incitant autrui a intervenir en sa faveur, et l’action collective ou les gens agissent ensemble pour construire leur avenir. Des dichotomies conﬂictuelles parsement notre domaine, opposant l’autonomie et l’interdependance, l’individualisme et le collectivisme. Les determinants et les doses d’action individuelle, par procuration et collective varient culturellement. Mais tous les modes d’action sont necessaires pour parvenir a ses ﬁns quel que soit le contexte culturel. Les cultures sont diverses et dynamiques, ce ne sont pas des monolithes statiques. La diversite intraculturelle et les ecarts dans les orientations psychosociales mettent en evidence la dynamique aux multiples facettes des cultures. La globalisation croissante, la pluralite des societes et l’immersion dans un monde virtuel qui se joue du temps, des distances, des lieux et des frontieres incitent aelargir la portee des etudes interculturelles. Les preoccupations se focalisent sur la facon dont les forces nationales et globales interagissent dans la creation de la vie culturelle. Social cognitive theory adopts an agentic perspective to human development, adaptation, and change. The theory distinguishes among three modes of agency: personal agency exercised individually; proxy agency in which people secure desired outcomes by inﬂuencing others to act on their behalf; and collective agency in which people act in concert to shape their future. Contentious dualisms pervade our ﬁeld pitting autonomy against interdependence; individualism against collectivism and communality; and personal agency against social structure. The determinants and agentic blends of individual, proxy, and collective instrumentality vary cross-culturally. But all agentic modes are needed to make it through the day whatever the cultural context in which one resides. Cultures are diverse and dynamic social systems not static monoliths. Intracultural diversity and intraindividual variation in psychosocial orientations across spheres of functioning underscore the multifaceted dynamic nature of cultures. The growing globalisation and cultural pluralisation of societies and enmeshment in a cyberworld that transcends time, distance, place, and national borders call for broadening the scope of cross-cultural analyses. The issues of interest center on how national and global forces interact to shape the nature of cultural life.
Similarity Involving Attributes and Relations: Judgments of Similarity and Difference Are Not Inverses

Conventional wisdom and previous research suggest that similarity judgments and difference judgments are inverses of one another. An exception to this rule arises when both relational similarity and attributional similarity are considered. When presented with choices that are relationally or attributionally similar to a standard, human subjects tend to pick the relationally similar choice as more similar to the standard and as more different from the standard. These results not only reinforce the general distinction between attributes and relations but also show that attributes and relations are dynamically distinct in the processes that give rise to similarity and difference judgments.
PLUTO AND CHARON WITH THE HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE. II. RESOLVING CHANGES ON PLUTO’S SURFACE AND A MAP FOR CHARON

We present new imaging of the surface of Pluto and Charon obtained during 2002–2003 with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) instrument. Using these data, we construct two-color albedo maps for the surfaces of both Pluto and Charon. Similar mapping techniques are used to re-process HST/Faint Object Camera (FOC) images taken in 1994. The FOC data provide information in the ultraviolet and blue wavelengths that show a marked trend of UV-bright material toward the sunlit pole. The ACS data are taken at two optical wavelengths and show widespread albedo and color variegation on the surface of Pluto and hint at a latitudinal albedo trend on Charon. The ACS data also provide evidence for a decreasing albedo for Pluto at blue (435 nm) wavelengths, while the green (555 nm) data are consistent with a static surface over the one-year period of data collection. We use the two maps to synthesize a true visual color map of Pluto’s surface and investigate trends in color. The mid- to high-latitude region on the sunlit pole is, on average, more neutral in color and generally higher albedo than the rest of the surface. Brighter surfaces also tend to be more neutral in color and show minimal color variations. The darker regions show considerable color diversity arguing that there must be a range of compositional units in the dark regions. Color variations are weak when sorted by longitude. These data are also used to constrain astrometric corrections that enable more accurate orbit fitting, both for the heliocentric orbit of the barycenter and the orbit of Pluto and Charon about their barycenter.