cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The sustainable corporation: lessons from Avatar

This article uses the fictitious company RDA from the movie Avatar as a textbook case of corporate non-sustainability. We provide a list of mistakes RDA made and provide parallel corporate examples in our own society in the areas of stakeholder analysis, corporate governance and systems thinking using the triple bottom line. For each area we present a framework that companies could use to operate in a more sustainable manner.
Intra-Industry Effects of a Regulatory Shift: Capital Market Evidence from Penn Square

In this paper, we use stock market data to examine the intra-industry effects of the July 5, 1982, closure of the Penn Square bank. A sample of 54 bank stocks is divided into four portfolios: industry, money center, Texas, and upstream. The latter group consists of banks that had purchased loans directly from Penn Square. Our objective is to determine whether FDIC Chairman Isaac's decision to close, rather than merge, Penn Square had an industry-wide contagion effect or a firm-specific information effect. We conclude that the stock market reaction to the Penn Square closure represents a rational investor response to new bank-specific information.
Bilateral sagittal split osteotomies in an ambulatory care setting

Orthognathic surgery has made many advances since its inception. This, combined with modern day health economics, has necessitated changes in orthognathic surgical practice. The bilateral sagittal split osteotomy is evaluated as an ambulatory surgical procedure. Studies have proven the sagittal split osteotomy can be performed as an ambulatory procedure. Patient costs, as well as other issues that impact on the patient and health care provider, are reviewed. The need for additional outcome data to determine whether patient care or perception of care is affected is discussed.
Molecular level fabrication techniques and molecular electronics devices

Abstract In anticipation of the continued size reduction of switching elements to the molecular level, new approaches to materials, memory, and switching elements have been developed. In particular, switching moieties or groups of molecular size whose structures are conductive to switching phenomena, are emphasized. Techniques of building up from the molecular level using molecular forces are also suggested as an alternative to current semiconductor practice. New techniques for accomplishing lithography at the molecular scale must also be devised. Three approaches possible involving biological and Langmuir-Blodgett materials will be described.
Hurler's syndrome, an a-L-iduronidase deficiency

Abstract The activity of a-L-iduronidase was found to be deficient in extracts prepared from livers, cultured fibroblasts and urine of patients with Hurler's syndrome. Extracts from livers and fibroblasts of Hunter's and Sanfilippo's syndromes did not show such a deficiency. There was a diminution of activity in extracts of “I-cell” fibroblasts. a-L-Iduronidase is believed to be the underlying enzymic defect of Hurler's disease.
Enhancement of hippocampal acetylcholine release by the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate: an in vivo microdialysis study.

The effect of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) administered i.p. on the release of acetylcholine (ACh) from the hippocampus of anesthetized rats was examined using in vivo microdialysis. DHEAS significantly increased ACh release above the pre-treatment levels for all doses tested. The administration of 100 mg/kg significantly enhanced ACh release greater than 4-fold when compared to the saline-treated group 80 min following drug administration. This study is the first to demonstrate that the neurosteroid DHEAS, a negative allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor, can enhance the release of ACh from neurons in the hippocampus.
Non-linear system identification based on Lie series solutions

A direct method of system identification and parameters monitoring is introduced for a general class of non-linear systems. The only requirement is that the system characteristics must be modelled by analytic or sufficiently smooth functions of the state variables, including the time parameter. The approach is based on the operator Lie representations and the corresponding Lie series solutions. This kind of solutions can be obtained for a general class of non-linear systems in the form of analytical power series including the system parameters. Despite the local characterisation of such solutions, the corresponding information carried by the solutions appears to be sufficiently complete and provides precise estimates of the system parameters. A non-linear vertical cantilever beam, excited at its support, is considered as a sample problem. Both constant and relaxation stiffness parameters are determined at every sample point, and thus the stiffness relaxation curves are recovered from the phase space dynamics. The method is found to be stable with respect to artificially introduced noisy components of the numerically simulated data and an increase in the number of degrees of freedom.
Civil society and violence: A research agenda

Abstract This article suggests that the relationship between violence and civil society has been under-studied, and that the capacity of civil society for violence has been especially neglected. This results in part from a conception of civil society that tends to blind scholars to the potential for violence of civil society actors. We suggest a less restricted and prescriptive understanding of civil society that will allow scholars to address this relationship. We then identify several research issues relating to civil society and violence that it is important for researchers to address. We argue for the importance of a descriptive account of the prevalence of violence in and of civil society; that attention be paid to the causes and especially the consequences of civil society violence; and that these issues be addressed from a transnational, comparative perspective.
The Time Behavior of the Probability Density Function of Some Simplified Atmospheric Flows

Abstract A three-component barotropic flow is considered to study the time behavior of the joint probability density function of spectral amplitudes. The beta effect is included by allowing the phase of the waves to be a linear time function. Analytic and numerical integrations are obtained for cases with and without beta. It is found that the addition of the beta effect produces important changes in the behavior of the probability function, particularly for long times. Initial correlations between the wave components are allowed and found to have some impact on the second moments of the distribution for the first two days. After this time, the nonlinearities build correlations such that the fields are independent of the initial correlation values.
Why screen newborns for profound and partial biotinidase deficiency

Newborn screening for biotinidase deficiency is currently performed throughout the United States and inmany countries of the world. However, there are still many countries that do not screen for the disorder. After learning howmany countries are still not screening for biotinidase deficiency, and after I received the comments on a recently submitted publication, I was compelled to address twomajor concerns about newborn screening for the disorder. The first is why should a country screen their newborns for profound biotinidase deficiency (less than 10% of mean normal serum enzyme activity)? The second is, if a country screens their newborns for profound biotinidase deficiency, why should they also screen for partial biotinidase deficiency (between10% and 30% of mean normal serum enzyme activity)? Before addressing these issues, Iwould like to state that over thepast 32 years, my research has focused on the study of the clinical, biochemical and molecular aspects of biotinidase deficiency. Even though my laboratory developed the colorimetric assay for biotinidase activity using blood-soaked filter paper cards, and we conducted the first newborn screening program in Virginia, I have not received, nor do I currently receive, any compensation for any aspect of newborn screening of the disorder. This being said, I would like to address the above questions. Why screen newborns for profound biotinidase deficiency? Since the discovery of biotinidase deficiency in our laboratory in 1982 [1,2], there has been a rapid transition from the development of a colorimetric method for determining biotinidase activity using blood-soaked filter paper spots [3] to the demonstration of the feasibility of performing
Defect-induced localized lattice distortions in Sn/Ge(111)

The gradual (√3 × √3) to (3×3) phase transition of the Sn/Ge( 111) system nucleates at substitutional Ge defects in the Sn layer, as observed by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). We offer an interpretation of the STMimages in terms of frozen defect-induced localized phonon modes resulting in local lattice distortions with (3×3) symmetry. Furthermore, we speculate on the nature of the phase transition.
Weaning and the Developmental Changes in Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide, and Inhibin B in the Male Rat

Pituitary Fshb concentrations increase markedly and selectively beginning on Postnatal Day 20 in the male rat. To evaluate the factors potentially responsible for this rise in FSH, we adjusted the time of weaning, which is generally also on Day 20. Male rat pups were provided nutrients by suckling only and were weaned to laboratory chow earlier (Day 17) or later (Day 23) than normally performed in animal facilities (Day 20). Between ages 17 and 29 days, significant increases were seen in serum LH (1.4-fold) and FSH (2.4-fold) levels; pituitary expression of Lhb (5.4-fold), Fshb (21.3-fold), and inhibin beta B (Inhbb, 2.26-fold) mRNAs; and testicular expression of Inhbb (10-fold) mRNA. Concurrently, significant decreases occurred in serum inhibin B levels (1.8-fold); pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (Adcyap1, 4.2-fold), total follistatin (Fst, 3.5-fold), and Fst isoform 288 (5.6-fold) mRNAs; and testicular expression of inhibin beta A (8.2-fold) mRNA. Early weaning significantly increased serum FSH but not LH and increased pituitary expression of Fshb and GnRH receptor (Gnrhr) mRNAs but not Lhb. Early weaning also significantly decreased serum inhibin B but increased testicular expression of the Inhbb subunit. Early weaning also caused pituitary expression of Fst and Adcyap1 to decline earlier than in the control group. Immediately after weaning, growth accelerated substantially, and the time of weaning produced significant and differential effects on circulating leptin levels that were not related to indices of FSH production. From these observations, we propose the novel hypothesis that the increase in growth rate subsequent to weaning signals circulating inhibin B levels to fall and pituitary Adcyap1 and consequently Fst expression to decrease, and that these events together facilitate the rise in Fshb and Gnrhr expression by increasing pituitary activin signaling.
The prenatal skull of the Canadian porcupine (Erethizon dorsatus)

This study represents the first critical investigation on the development of the embryonic skull of the porcupine. A complete series of stages makes it possible to trace the developing chondrocranium from its first formation in precartilage to its later transformation into cartilage bone. Concurrent with this growth is the investment of the cartilaginous cranium by membrane bone. The very primitive nature of the chondrocranium offers an excellent opportunity to discuss the existing problems of the embryonic skull from a new angle. Evidence is presented in support of the assumption that the ala temporalis is the homologue of the cynodont epipterygoid. The lamina parietalis develops from a single chondrifying center, thus producing a different arrangement of parietal elements from that found in most mammals. New evidence as to the relationship of the dens epistrophei and basal plate is presented. The position of the internal carotid artery on entering the cranium is different from the condition found in most mammals and throws new light on the interpretation of surrounding structures. The presence of a structure comparable with the crista longitudinalis of Lacerta shows close affinity to the solum nasi of more primitive forms. The great specialization of the face is seen in the early and rapid growth of the membrane bones. The chondrocranium is long persistent and cartilage bone appears late in embryonic life.
Spectacled Eye Condition in Rats.

SummaryThe curative action of corn oil in healing the “spectacled eye” condition has been demonstrated. The identity of the factor in liver which prevents these symptoms with the other members of the vitamin B complex has been discussed. Direct and indirect evidence is offered that, besides the crystalline vitamins contained in the ration, the factor concerned is not identical with pantothenic acid, factor W and the factor preventing nutritional achromotrichia. A possible relationship of this factor to the so-called “accessory factor” preventing acrodynia and of this condition to the “type III” dermatitis of Gyorgy and Eckardt is pointed out. Further, the relation of this condition to the deficiency of the essential fatty acids is discussed.
Mid-node admissible spaces for quadratic triangular arbitrarily curved 2D finite elements

This paper presents the extension of the mid-node admissible space (MAS) concept for two-dimensional quadratic triangular element (2DQTE) to the case when more than one edge is curved. The mathematical background for the MAS for 2DQTE with more than one edge curved is developed. A metric, based on the determination of the Jacobian distribution, whose evaluation and implementation is aided through the use of the MAS is developed. The evaluation of the quality of an element based on this metric and procedures to repair an element to produce better results are also presented. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring the limits and practicality of Q-based temperature compensation for silicon resonators

We investigate using quality factor as a thermometer in embedded temperature compensation systems for micromechanical silicon resonator-based frequency references. Our compensated 1.3 MHz prototype oscillator, implemented on a single printed circuit board, achieves temperature stability of plusmn1 ppm from 0degC to 70degC after multipoint calibration or plusmn25 ppm after single point calibration. Drawbacks and limitations of the compensation schemes are discussed.
Impact of chronic condition status and severity on dental utilization for Iowa Medicaid-enrolled children.

Background Although Medicaid-enrolled children with a chronic condition (CC) may be less likely to use dental care because of factors related to their CC, dental utilization for this population is poorly understood. Objective To assess the relationship between CC status and CC severity, respectively, on dental utilization for Iowa Medicaid-enrolled children. Research design Retrospective cohort study of Iowa Medicaid data (January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2006). Subjects Medicaid-enrolled children aged 3 to 14 (N = 71,115) years. Measures The 3M Corporation Clinical Risk Grouping methods were used to assess CC status (no/yes) and CC severity (episodic/life-long/malignancy/complex). The outcome variable was any dental utilization in 2006. Secondary outcomes included use of diagnostic, preventive, routine restorative, or complex restorative dental care. Results After adjusting for model covariates, Iowa Medicaid-enrolled children with a CC were significantly more likely to use each type of dental care except routine restorative care (P = 0.86) than those without a CC, although the differences in the odds were small (4%-6%). Compared with Medicaid-enrolled children with an episodic CC, children with a life-long CC were less likely to use routine restorative care (P Conclusions There were differences in dental utilization for Iowa Medicaid-enrolled children by CC status and CC severity. Children with complex CCs were the least likely to use dental care. Future research efforts should seek to understand why subgroups of Medicaid-enrolled children with a CC exhibit lower dental utilization.
Results of sub-nanosecond laser-conditioning of KD2PO4 crystals

Previous work [1] has shown the optimum pulse length range for laser-conditioning tripler-cut DKDP with 355 nm (3ω) light lies between 200 ps and 900 ps for damage initiated at 3 ns. A 3ω, 500 ps (500 ps) table-top laser system has been built at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) [2] to take advantage of this optimal conditioning pulse length range. This study evaluates parameters important for practically utilizing this laser as a raster-scan conditioning laser and for determining the effectiveness of various conditioning protocols. Damage density vs. test fluence (ρ(Φ) was measured for unconditioned and 500-ps laser-conditioned (conditioned) DKDP with 3ω, 3 ns (3 ns) test pulses. We find a 2.5X improvement in fluence in the 3 ns ρ(Φ) after conditioning with 500 ps pulses to 5 J/cm2. We further determine that the rate of improvement in ρ(Φ)decreases at the higher conditioning fluences (i.e. 3.5 - 5 J/cm2). Single-shot damage threshold experiments at 500 ps were used to determine the starting fluence for our 500 ps conditioning ramps. We find 0%, 70%, and 100% single-shot damage probability fluences of 4, 4.5, and 5 J/cm2, respectively at 500 ps. Bulk damage size distributions created at 3 ns are presented for unconditioned and conditioned DKDP. The range of diameters of bulk damage sites (pinpoints) in unconditioned DKDP is found to be 4.6 ± 4.4 µm in agreement with previous results. Also, we observe no apparent difference in the bulk damage size distributions between unconditioned and conditioned DKDP for testing at 3 ns.
Markov chain formalism for vector radiative transfer in a plane-parallel atmosphere overlying a polarizing surface

We report on a way of building bidirectional surface reflectivity into the Markov chain formalism for polarized radiative transfer through a vertically inhomogeneous atmosphere. Numerical results are compared to those obtained by the Monte Carlo method, showing the accuracy of the Markov chain method when 90 streams are used to compute the radiation from a Rayleigh-plus-aerosol atmosphere that overlies a surface with a bidirectional reflection function consisting of both depolarizing and polarizing parts.
DNA strand breakage in normal and solar ultraviolet-sensitive ICR 2A frog cell lines exposed to solar ultraviolet wavelengths.

ICR 2A frog cells and two solar ultraviolet (UV)-sensitive cell lines, DRP 36 and DRP 153, were irradiated with 150 kj/m2 of the UV radiation produced by a fluorescent sun lamp, the radiation from which was passed through a sheet of 48A Mylar (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) to eliminate wavelengths shorter than approximately 315 nm. The irradiated cultures were also exposed to photoreactivating light (PRL), resulting in the removal of most of the pyrimidine dimers induced by the sun lamp UV irradiation, and then incubated 0–4 hr. At the end of the incubations, the cells were subjected to the alkaline elution assay. In these elutions, the cell lysates were either treated with proteinase K (proK) to eliminate any DNA-protein crosslinks (DPC) that may be present in the cells, or left untreated with proK. For the ICR 2A cells, the level of apparent DNA single-strand breaks (ssb) detected in elutions using proK increased with the incubation time after irradiation and remained high. However, when the DNA was eluted without proK pretreat-ment, the number of ssb fell rapidly. In contrast, the levels of ssb decreased in the DRP 36 and DRP 153 cells regardless of the use of proK in the elutions. Hence, this differential response in ssb induction may be indicative of a system involved with recovery following irradiation with solar UV wavelengths.
DNA Damage‐Inducible Gene Expression and Formation of 5‐Fluorouracil‐Resistant Mutants in Escherichia coli Exposed to 2‐Dodecylcyclobutanone

-galactosidase reporter constructs, and for the ability to increase the formation of 5-fluorou-galactosidase reporter constructs, and for the ability to increase the formation of 5-fluorou-galactosidase reporter constructs, and for the ability to increase the formation of 5-fluorou-galactosidase reporter constructs, and for the ability to increase the formation of 5-fluorour r r r racil (5-FU)–r acil (5-FU)–r acil (5-FU)–r acil (5-FU)–r acil (5-FU)–resistant mutants esistant mutants esistant mutants esistant mutants esistant mutants. . . . When When When When When E. coli was exposed to 125, 250, 500, and 1000 was exposed to 125, 250, 500, and 1000 was exposed to 125, 250, 500, and 1000 was exposed to 125, 250, 500, and 1000 was exposed to 125, 250, 500, and 1000 g/mL 2-DCB g/mL 2-DCB g/mL 2-DCB g/mL 2-DCB g/mL 2-DCB, with and , with and , with and , with and , with and without ex without ex without ex without ex without exogenous metabolic activ ogenous metabolic activ ogenous metabolic activ ogenous metabolic activ ogenous metabolic activation, no incr ation, no incr ation, no incr ation, no incr ation, no increase in ease in ease in ease in ease in dinD, nfo, recA, or
Transient expression of homologous genes in Drosophila cells.

A cloned Drosophila heat shock protein 22 gene was transfected into two independently established Drosophila cell lines. Each line carried a different heat shock protein 22 allele, distinguishable by electrophoresis of the protein. The transfected gene was not expressed at 25°C but could be induced at 36°C. In one line, two heat shock protein 22 electromorphs were synthesized.
Magnetic flux transfer associated with expansions and contractions of the dayside magnetosphere

The paper shows that the use of an empirical ellipsoidal model of the sunward magnetopause - which uses Ogo 5 magnetometer data, solar wind data from three satellites, and auroral zone magnetic indices - yields quantitative statistical estimates of the relative values of magnetopause displacements due to solar wind variation, flux transfers, and other causes. While the displacements due to flux transfers are smaller on the average, they are clearly comparable with those due solar wind fluctuations. The fact that expansion and contraction events are observed throughout the region accessible to Ogo 5 satellite on the sunward magnetopause suggests that the entire sunward magnetosphere is affected by flux erosion and return.
Reba: A Mid to Late Season Golden Nematode Resistant Variety For Use As Tablestock or Chipstock

Reba has a bright clear skin, attractive shape and cooking qualities that make it suitable for tablestock. The chip color from 7° storage has been equal to that of Monona. The specific gravity of Reba is .013 less than Atlantic and .007 greater than Monona. In upstate New York and Pennsylvania trials, Reba has produced a marketable yield about 9% greater than Atlantic. On Long Island and New Jersey, Reba has yielded about 14% greater than Superior. Reba is resistant to race Ro1 of the golden nematode, as resistant to scab as Monona, and moderately resistant to Verticillium wilt.
Life-cycle theory, inflation, and the demand for housing☆

There has been considerable interest lately in the influence of economywide inflation on the demand for housing. Under suitable equilibrium conditions, such inflation creates three effects, each of which may influence housing decisions. First, inflation raises initial mortgage payments through higher interest rates. Second, it causes such payments to fall rapidly over time in real terms, and third, it creates a real growth in housing equity, as borrowed debt is leveraged against the inflating value of homes. Two empirical studies, one by Kearl [6], and more recently by Follain [3], have concluded that the sum of these impacts is adverse, that is, housing demand is reduced by greater economy-wide inflation. Each suggests that credit constraints may explain this result. In an attempt to understand better the microeconomic foundations of this empirical result, Schwab [9], and Dougherty and Van Order [2] have developed Fisher-type models of intertemporal utility maximization, which include a housing consumption choice. Schwab concludes that with a perfect capital market, inflation should induce no distortion in consumer decisions about housing consumption. Dougherty and Van Order, building on some unpublished work by Poterba [8], argue that with interest deductibility from income taxes, inflation reduces the “after tax cost of housing capital,” and thereby increases housing demand. These conclusions suggest that capital market imperfection must exist, to explain the empirical results, but just what kind? Schwab’s paper addresses this question by introducing a borrowing constraint into a two-period model [9]. The constraint is absolute, although Schwab acknowledges that allowing collateralized borrowing is more realistic. Schwab’s conclusions are two. First, he argues that if the constraint is nonbinding then the perfect capital market results prevail, and second, he demonstrates that if the constraints are binding, the effect of inflation on
A single dose of rasburicase is sufficient for the treatment of hyperuricemia in patients receiving chemotherapy

Hydration, urinary alkalization, and allopurinol are the standard of care in the treatment and prevention of hyperuricemia. Rasburicase is a new alternative for the management of hyperuricemia in cancer patients. Criteria for the use of rasburicase were developed by the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy and Therapeutics Subcommittee of the Detroit Medical Center and implemented in 2003. The guidelines limit rasburicase use to one dose, with additional doses as needed, compared to the five doses recommended by the manufacturer, in cancer patients with hyperuricemia and bulky tumor who require immediate chemotherapy. During the period of March to September 2003, eight patients received rasburicase, according to the guidelines, for the management of hyperuricemia. One dose of rasburicase produced a rapid and sustained therapeutic effect of lowering the plasma uric acid levels in all patients. The levels remained below 4 mg/dL throughout the administration of chemotherapy for up to 96 h. Utilizing the guidelines resulted in a significant cost savings of 100,000 US dollars.
High-dielectric-constant polymers as high-energy-density (HED) field effect actuator and capacitor materials

The development of high dielectric constant polymers as active materials in high-performance devices is one of the challenges in polymeric electronics and opto-electronics such as flexible thin-film capacitors, memory devices and microactuators for deformable micromirror technology. A group of poly(vinylidene fluoridetrifluoroethylene) P(VDF-TrFE) based high-dielectric-constant fluoroterpolymers have been developed, which have high room-temperature dielectric constant (K>60) and very high strain level and high energy density. The longitudinal and transverse strain of these materials can reach about -7% and 4.5%, respectively, and the elastic energy density is around 1.1 J/cm^3 under a high electric field of 150 MV/m. The influence on the electromechanical properties of copolymerizing poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) (PVDF-TrFE) with a third monomer, chlorofluoroethylene (CFE), was investigated. It was found that increasing the CFE content from 0 to 8.5% slowly converts the ferroelectric structure of the copolymer to a relaxor ferroelectric system. This allows for a greatly decreased polarization and dielectric hysteresis and a much higher strain. Above 8.5%, increased CFE content substantially degrades the bulk crystallinity and the Young's modulus. These terpolymers have the potential to achieve above 10 J/cm^3 whole capacity energy density, which makes them good candidates for applications in pulse power capacitors. An all-polymer percolative composite by the combination of conductive polyaniline particles (K>10^5) within a fluoroterpolymer matrix, is introduced which exhibits very high dielectric constant (>7,000). The experimental results show that the dielectric behavior of this new class of percolative composites follows the prediction of the percolation theory and the analysis of the conductive percolation phenomena. The very high dielectric constant of the all-polymer composites which are also very flexible and possess elastic modulus not very much different from that of the insulation polymer matrix makes it possible to induce a high electromechanical response under a much reduced electric field (a strain of 2.65% with an elastic energy density of 0.18 J/cm^3 can be achieved under a low field of 16 MV/m). Data analysis also suggests that in these composites, the non-uniform local field distribution as well as interface effects can significantly enhance the strain responses. Furthermore, the experimental data as well as the data analysis indicate that the conduction loss in these composites will not affect the strain hysteresis. Flexible high dielectric constant electroactive polymers provide potential applications in high-energy-density (HED) energy storage and conversion systems such as lightweight field effect actuators and capacitors.
Exhaustive docking and solvated interaction energy scoring: lessons learned from the SAMPL4 challenge.

We continued prospective assessments of the Wilma–solvated interaction energy (SIE) platform for pose prediction, binding affinity prediction, and virtual screening on the challenging SAMPL4 data sets including the HIV-integrase inhibitor and two host–guest systems. New features of the docking algorithm and scoring function are tested here prospectively for the first time. Wilma–SIE provides good correlations with actual binding affinities over a wide range of binding affinities that includes strong binders as in the case of SAMPL4 host–guest systems. Absolute binding affinities are also reproduced with appropriate training of the scoring function on available data sets or from comparative estimation of the change in target’s vibrational entropy. Even when binding modes are known, SIE predictions lack correlation with experimental affinities within dynamic ranges below 2 kcal/mol as in the case of HIV-integrase ligands, but they correctly signaled the narrowness of the dynamic range. Using a common protein structure for all ligands can reduce the noise, while incorporating a more sophisticated solvation treatment improves absolute predictions. The HIV-integrase virtual screening data set consists of promiscuous weak binders with relatively high flexibility and thus it falls outside of the applicability domain of the Wilma–SIE docking platform. Despite these difficulties, unbiased docking around three known binding sites of the enzyme resulted in over a third of ligands being docked within 2 A from their actual poses and over half of the ligands docked in the correct site, leading to better-than-random virtual screening results.
Vasomotor symptom duration in midlife women--research overturns dogma.

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) affect up to 80% of menopausal women and are the most common reason these women seek treatment. Approximately 60% of midlife women seek medical care or advice at least once because of VMS, 1 which adversely affect quality of life in domains that include work, social and leisure activities, and sexual health. 2 Previous research from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) 2,3 demonstrated that having VMS at least 6 days in the previous 2 weeks was highly associated with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, sleep problems, qualityof-life impairment, cardiovascular risks, and poorer bone health. Despite the high prevalence of VMS among midlife women, surprisingly little research has been done on the underlying etiology, individual differences in symptom presentation, sociodemographic and clinical correlates, or duration of symptoms. Early publications reported the duration of VMS to be generally less than 2 years, 4 whereas recent evidence (eg, the study by Avis et al 5 in the current issue of JAMA Internal Medicine) suggests that the mean duration of symptoms is considerably longer. The findings from recent studies underscore the limitations of the earlier evidence base on VMS that has guided clinical practice for many decades. 4 The study by Avis et al 5 contributes important data on duration and correlates of VMS from the SWAN, a large multiracial/ multiethnic cohort of women followed up through the menopausal transition and into the postmenopausal years. The
Fuz Controls the Morphogenesis and Differentiation of Hair Follicles through the Formation of Primary Cilia

Planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling is essential in determining the polarity of cells within the plane of an epithelial sheet. Core PCP genes have been recently shown to control the global polarization of hair follicles in mice. Fuz, a homologue of the Drosophila PCP effector gene, fuzzy, is critical in ciliogenesis in vertebrates, and is required for the development of a wide range of organs in mice. Here, we report that disruption of the Fuz gene in mice severely blocked the development of hair follicles in the skin. In contrast to the loss of hair follicle polarization in mice deficient in core PCP genes, hair follicles in mice lacking the Fuz gene retained their typical anterior–posterior orientation. We show that disruption of Fuz impaired the formation of primary cilia and the hedgehog signaling pathway in the skin. In addition, using skin grafts and skin reconstitution assays we demonstrate that the expression of Fuz is required in both epidermal and dermal cells and that the formation of primary cilia is a cell-autonomous process that does not require cross talk between the epithelia and mesenchymal compartments during hair follicle formation.
Distinct Selectin Ligands on Colon Carcinoma Mucins Can Mediate Pathological Interactions among Platelets, Leukocytes, and Endothelium

Selectins are adhesion molecules that mediate calcium-dependent cell-cell interactions among leukocytes, platelets, and endothelial cells. The naturally occurring vascular ligands for the selectins are mostly mucin-type glycoproteins. Increased expression and altered glycosylation of mucins are known to be prominent features of carcinoma progression. We have previously shown that all three selectins bind to colon carcinoma cell lines in a calcium-dependent fashion and that carcinoma growth and metastasis formation are attenuated in P-selectin-deficient mice. Here we show that the three recombinant soluble selectins recognize ligands within primary colon carcinoma tissue samples. Affinity chromatography showed that the ligands for all three selectins are O-sialoglycoprotease-sensitive mucins that are recognized in a calcium- and sialic acid-dependent manner. Furthermore, there are separate binding sites on the mucins for each selectin, allowing cross-binding of a single mucin molecule by more than one selectin. We also show that the selectin ligands on purified carcinoma mucins can mediate at least four different pathological interactions among platelets, leukocytes, and endothelial cells. These findings could explain some of the adhesive events of blood-borne tumor cells reported to occur with leukocytes, platelets, and endothelial cells, which are believed to play a part in modulating some early events in tumor metastases.
Randomized, Controlled Trial of the LEAP Model of Early Intervention for Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

A clustered randomized design was used in which 28 inclusive preschool classrooms were randomly assigned to receive 2 years of training and coaching to fidelity in the LEAP (Learning Experiences and Alternative Program for Preschoolers and Their Parents) preschool model, and 28 inclusive classes were assigned to receive intervention manuals only. In total, 177 intervention classroom children and 117 comparison classroom children participated. Children were similar on all measures at start. After 2 years, experimental class children were found to have made significantly greater improvement than their comparison cohorts on measures of cognitive, language, social, and problem behavior, and autism symptoms. Behavior at entry did not predict outcome nor did family socioeconomic status. The fidelity with which teachers implemented LEAP strategies did predict outcomes. Finally, social validity measurement showed that procedures and outcomes were favorably viewed by intervention class teachers.
Path loss and cell coverage of urban microcells in high-rise building environments

This paper proposes an RF propagation model to predict the sector average signal (or path loss) for the low base station antennas proposed for microcellular systems in high-rise building environments. The model predicts the signal for both the line-of-sight (LOS) and non-LOS cases. For non-LOS paths, rays that are diffracted at the building corners, as well as reflected rays are accounted for. The results agree with available experimental data. Using this model, we show how the signal on non-LOS paths depends on the specific location of the base station. It is found that the received signal suffers 15 to 20 dB loss when the mobile turns a corner from the LOS street containing the base station into a cross street, or from a cross street into a street parallel to the LOS street. >
Adherence Issues in the Medical Management of Asthma

Asthma is a common chronic illness of childhood that requires coordinated efforts by children, families, and health care professionals for proper medical management. The medical management of pediatric asthma involves pharmacological and behavioral recommendations to both prevent and control asthma attacks. However, management of these attacks is hindered by failure to adhere to the prescribed recommendations. While the literature on adherence in pediatric asthma has grown over the past 10 years, few definitive statements can be made about causes and treatment. Various issues related to adherence and pediatric asthma are reviewed in this paper, including assessment methods, factors influencing adherence, and treatment strategies. Recommendations for future research are provided, starting with more controlled randomized studies.
Functional significance of SPINK1 promoter variants in chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammatory disorder of the pancreas, which often develops as a result of genetic predisposition. Some of the most frequently identified risk factors affect t...
Super-resolution tracking of weak fluorescent markers in 3D: application in dissecting the mechanics of chromosome segregation using fluorescence imaging and molecular genetics in yeast

We present a framework for the tracking of fluorescent tags in 4D microscopy (3D + time). It includes algorithms to separate tag signals under strong interference, allowing us to break the limits of optical resolution in light microscopy by a factor 3. We apply the package to read out chromosome dynamics in a functional, cell-based screen for proteins regulating cell division in yeast.
Perceived Stress and Depressive Symptoms Among Latino Adults The Moderating Role of Ethnic Identity Cluster Patterns

The present study examined whether ethnic identity cluster patterns, using Ethnic Identity Scale (EIS) subscale scores, moderated the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms. Participants were 390 Latino adults from a moderately sized Midwestern city. Four ethnic identity cluster patterns were identified through cluster analysis: Achieved Positive, Diffuse Positive, Foreclosed Positive, and Diffuse Negative. Results from a moderated multiple regression analysis indicated a significant interaction effect of ethnic identity clusters (i.e., Achieved Positive vs. Diffuse Negative) and perceived stress on depressive symptoms. Specifically, at lower levels of stress, no significant difference was found; whereas, at higher levels of stress, individuals with Achieved Positive cluster patterns had significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than individuals with Diffuse Negative cluster patterns. The findings are discussed within the context of ethnic identity theory and the implication...
Hand assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with minilaparotomy ileal conduit: series report and comparison with open cystectomy.

ABSTRACTPurpose: To achieve less patient morbidity our initial experience with hand assisted laparoscopic (HAL) cystectomy was compared with our results of open cystectomy with similar urinary diversion.Materials and Methods: During 18 months 36 cystectomies were performed, including 20 with open continent diversion. A prospective, nonrandomized comparison of the remaining 16 consecutive cystectomies with ileal conduit diversion (hand assisted laparoscopic cystectomy and open cystectomy in 8 cases each) was performed. Of the 16 cystectomies 13 were performed for muscle invasive bladder cancer. Standard parameters were compared concerning patient operative and postoperative courses using statistical analysis with the 2-tailed t test. A novel surgical technique for completing these HAL procedures is described and compared to standard open cystectomy and ileal conduit diversion.Results: A total of 16 patients successfully underwent open (8) and HAL (8) cystectomy with an ileal conduit. Mean estimated blood l...
Effects of Mechanical Strain on Characteristics of Polycrystalline Silicon Thin-Film Transistors Fabricated on Stainless Steel Foil

The effects of uniaxial tensile strain on the performance of polycrystalline silicon thin-film transistors (poly-Si TFTs) is reported. Longitudinal strain increases the electron mobility and decreases the hole mobility, while transverse strain decreases the electron mobility and slightly decreases the hole mobility. Under longitudinal strain the off current decreases for both NMOS and PMOS TFTs and shifts in threshold voltage and substhreshold slope are observed for p-channel TFTs. A strong dependence on channel length for both electron and hole mobilities under longitudinal strain indicates the presence of a series resistance. For poly-Si TFTs, the mobility changes under strains are related to the strain effects on single crystalline silicon devices.
Endovascular management of cerebral vasospasm

Cerebral vasospasm remains a feared complication from subarachnoid hemorrhage. Vasospasm typically occurs from three to fourteen days post–aneurysm rupture, with peak risk on Day 7. Up to 50% of patients with angiographic vasospasm will subsequently develop delayed cerebral ischemia; 15–20% of this subset will develop stroke or death despite maximal medical therapy. We define symptomatic vasospasm as the presence of neurological worsening after exclusion of other identifiable causes, such as seizure, hydrocephalus, intracerebral hemorrhage, or metabolic dysfunction. This video demonstrates the set-up and treatment protocol for endovascular intervention of symptomatic vasospasm not responsive to maximal medical management. The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/q7YvxLzIDnU.
The Impact of Realistic Age Structure in Simple Models of Tuberculosis Transmission

Background : Mathematical models of tuberculosis (TB) transmission have been used to characterize disease dynamics, investigate the potential effects of public health interventions, and prioritize control measures. While previous work has addressed the mathematical description of TB natural history, the impact of demography on the behaviour of TB models has not been assessed. Methods : A simple model of TB transmission, with alternative assumptions about survivorship, is used to explore the effect of age structure on the prevalence of infection, disease, basic reproductive ratio and the projected impact of control interventions. We focus our analytic arguments on the differences between constant and exponentially distributed lifespans and use an individual-based model to investigate the range of behaviour arising from realistic distributions of survivorship. Results : The choice of age structure and natural (non-disease related) mortality strongly affects steady-state dynamics, parameter estimation and predictions about the effectiveness of control interventions. Since most individuals infected with TB develop an asymptomatic latent infection and never progress to active disease, we find that assuming a constant mortality rate results in a larger reproductive ratio and an overestimation of the effort required for disease control in comparison to using more realistic age-specific mortality rates. Conclusions : Demographic modelling assumptions should be considered in the interpretation of models of chronic infectious diseases such as TB. For simple models, we find that assuming constant lifetimes, rather than exponential lifetimes, produces dynamics more representative of models with realistic age structure.
High-sensitivity photon-counting communications using Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes

Recent advances in Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode technology have made these devices practical for high-sensitivity photon-counting optical communications. We report on recent experiments using 1.06 /spl mu/m and 1.55 /spl mu/m Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes to demonstrate optical communications with multiple bits per detected photon.
Women in nemertean biology

This paper is a brief tribute to the lives of women who have worked in the field of nemertean biology and began their careers in the first part of the twentieth century. Although nothing specific has been written about these women as nemertean biologists, they have been important to the field with many lasting contributions. They are set apart from their male contemporaries because of gender barriers and the implied cultural roles they had to overcome to pursue science. Their dedication and perseverance in spite of these obstacles make their achievements even more remarkable.
Recommendations for Care Related to Follow-Up of Abnormal Cancer Screening Tests Accuracy of Patient Report

When using patient self-report of processes of care as part of measuring quality performance, validity and reliability are important considerations. In this study, the congruence of patient report of recommendations of screening follow-up care was compared with record audit data. Survey data were collected from a random sample of patients with abnormal breast (n = 230) or cervical (n = 219) cancer screening tests from four health centers. With patient consent, record audits were conducted to validate self-report. Measures of congruence for recommendations for follow-up were calculated along with sensitivity and specificity for procedure-specific recommendations. Overall congruence was higher in the mammography sample (81%) as compared to the Pap sample (61%). Predictors of overall congruence for the abnormal Pap test sample included health plan, self-reported health status, and test result. There were no significant predictors of congruence for the abnormal mammogram test sample from the potential variables collected. Raw agreement rates support using patient self-report in assessing abnormal test follow-up recommendations.