cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural Control of the Lower Urinary Tract

This article summarizes anatomical, neurophysiological, pharmacological, and brain imaging studies in humans and animals that have provided insights into the neural circuitry and neurotransmitter mechanisms controlling the lower urinary tract. The functions of the lower urinary tract to store and periodically eliminate urine are regulated by a complex neural control system in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral autonomic ganglia that coordinates the activity of smooth and striated muscles of the bladder and urethral outlet. The neural control of micturition is organized as a hierarchical system in which spinal storage mechanisms are in turn regulated by circuitry in the rostral brain stem that initiates reflex voiding. Input from the forebrain triggers voluntary voiding by modulating the brain stem circuitry. Many neural circuits controlling the lower urinary tract exhibit switch-like patterns of activity that turn on and off in an all-or-none manner. The major component of the micturition switching circuit is a spinobulbospinal parasympathetic reflex pathway that has essential connections in the periaqueductal gray and pontine micturition center. A computer model of this circuit that mimics the switching functions of the bladder and urethra at the onset of micturition is described. Micturition occurs involuntarily in infants and young children until the age of 3 to 5 years, after which it is regulated voluntarily. Diseases or injuries of the nervous system in adults can cause the re-emergence of involuntary micturition, leading to urinary incontinence. Neuroplasticity underlying these developmental and pathological changes in voiding function is discussed.
Multi-source phased-array approach to improve the spatial resolution in frequency-domain diffuse optical imaging

We present an approach to diffuse optical imaging based on a multi-source phased array of intensity-modulated light sources. Experimental data illustrates the improvement in spatial resolution compared to conventional imaging with a single source-detector pair.
Selling Sex: Analyzing the Improper Use Defense to Contract Enforcement Through the Lens of Carroll versus Beardon

The 1963 decision of the Supreme Court of Montana in Carroll v. Beardon, occupies less than three full pages in the Pacific Reporter and involves a simple real estate transaction in which a “madam” sold a house used for prostitution to another “madam.” The opinion is the last in a long line of cases to speak specifically to the issue of enforcement of facially legitimate contracts that in some manner arguably involve or are related to prostitution and is commonly cited in treatises and hornbooks as representative of the movement by courts toward enforcement of such contracts under the law of improper use - scenarios in which the transaction itself is not illegal, but the underlying purpose or conduct of one or more parties to the transaction involves using the subject matter in an illegal manner. It is unfortunate that this opinion appears in only a handful of casebooks and its subject matter has received so little scholarly attention because it provides both scholars and educators endless opportunities for exploration of the cultural context within which courts operate and construct case narratives. Its humorous tone and deceptive simplicity also belie a serious failure by the Court to provide a fair and impartial resolution of the parties’ dispute, to identify and balance the competing policy interests, and to create useful precedent for future courts and litigants. Most importantly, this 1963 decision and its implications remain relevant and merit consideration by scholars exploring the intersection of contract and criminal laws related to intimate sexual relationships.
Clusters of Galaxies and Cooling Hot Gas

This review describes the information derived from Einstein x-ray imaging observations which is relevant to cooling flows in clusters of galaxies. It describes the properties of those clusters which have cooling flows and their relative proportions compared to other non-cooling flow clusters. A method for deriving quantitative parameters (gas densities and cooling times) is described and the results are compared with other techniques for estimating the importance of cooling. Finally, several effects of cooling flows around galaxies in clusters are discussed.
A Review of “Working With Children With Sexual Behavior Problems”

In Working With Children With Sexual Behavior Problems, Eliana Gil and Jennifer A. Shaw have created a book that outlines normative as well as problematic childhood sexuality and presents a compreh...
Mosaic Analysis of the Liguleless3 Mutant Phenotype in Maize by Coordinate Suppression of Mutator-insertion Alleles

Liguleless3-O (Lg3-O) transforms the leaf blade, auricle and ligule into sheath around the midrib region. We conducted a genetic mosaic analysis of the Lg3 phenotype to determine the site of Lg3 gene action. Combining the Mutator (Mu) suppressible Lg3-Or211 and a1-mum2 alleles in a Mu-active background generated a stock wherein somatic loss of Mu activity resulted in anthocyanin-marked clonal sectors expressing Lg3 in the leaf. Lg3-Or211 plants appear wild type in a Mu-active line, but Mu-inactive plants express a severe Lg3 phenotype. We observed four sector classes: wild type, sheath-like with ligule displacement, sheath-like with ectopic ligule, and auricle-like. The mutation does not cause transformation to a specific cell or regional identity. Lg3-Or211 activity in the mesophyll alters wild-type epidermal cell fates; activity in epidermis seems functionless. Lg3 mutant activity has a nonautonomous, cell-layer-specific function in the transverse dimension. In the lateral dimension, sectors of Lg3 mutant phenotype can exhibit either cell-autonomous or nonautonomous effects. Our work demonstrates that mosaic analysis by coordinate suppression of Mu-induced alleles is useful for analyzing the cell autonomy of genetically defined functions.
Effect of Guar Gum, Lignin and Pectin on Proteolytic Enzyme Levels in the Gastrointestinal Tract of the Rat: A Time-Based Study

The effects of dietary pectin (P), guar gum (G) and lignin (L) on stomach emptying and potential levels of pepsin, trypsin and chymotrypsin during a 2-h period after force-feeding were investigated in growing rats. All of the fibers delayed stomach emptying by 21-26 min. Total potential pepsin activity over 2 h decreased for P (57%), G (44%) and L (20%). In the intestine, total potential trypsin activity over 2 h increased for L (16%) but decreased for P (21%). Total potential chymotrypsin activity over 2 h increased for L (54%) and G (39%). Sixteen to 21% of the variability in intestinal activity over time was statistically attributable to variation in the weight of intestinal contents. The results indicate that fiber components altered proteolytic enzyme levels in the gastrointestinal tract, but the decreased protein utilization previously observed with these fibers is probably not due to reduced levels of intestinal proteases.
Comparative analysis of various prognostic nodal factors, adjuvant chemotherapy and survival among stage III colon cancer patients over 65 years: an analysis using surveillance, epidemiology and end results (SEER)-Medicare data.

Aim The prognostic effects of chemotherapy and various lymph node measures [positive nodes, total node count and the positive lymph node ratio (PLNR)] have been established. It is unknown whether the cancer-specific survival benefit of chemotherapy differs across these nodal prognostic categories. Method This retrospective analysis of linked Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) data and Medicare data (SEER-Medicare)included patients ≥ 65 years of age with a diagnosis of stage III colon cancer between 1997 and 2002. We grouped patients according to the number of positive nodes (N1 and N2), total node count (≥ 12 and < 12 total nodes) and PLNR (below the 75th percentile and at least at the 75th percentile of the PLNR). The end point was colon cancer-specific mortality. Results Fifty-one per cent (3701) of the 7263 patients received adjuvant therapy during the time period 1997–2002. The mean (standard deviation) number of total nodes examined was 13 (9) and the number of positive nodes identified was 3 (3). Patients with N2 disease, < 12 total nodes examined and a high PLNR had a worse survival at 2, 3 and 5 years following colectomy. Utilization of chemotherapy demonstrated a colon cancer-specific survival benefit (hazard ratio at median follow up = 0.7; P < 0.001) that was consistent and statistically significant across the three nodal prognostic categories examined. Conclusion The benefit of chemotherapy did not vary based on N stage, total node count or PLNR. The results favour a broad-based approach towards increasing the chemotherapy treatment rates in stage III patients of ≥ 65 years of age, rather than an approach that targets clinical subgroups.
Costs of triplet pregnancy.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to describe the total costs involved in the delivery, prenatal, and neonatal care for triplet pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty triplet pregnancies were born at our institution over the 1-year period between July 1, 1992, and June 30, 1993. Total charges for prenatal care, physician fees, antepartum admissions, delivery, postpartum inpatient and outpatient care, and neonatal inpatient and outpatient care were extracted from the hospital billing computers. RESULTS: Our 20 triplet pregnancies were delivered of 54 live born infants and an average gestation of 30.2 weeks. Mothers averaged 16.7 inpatient hospital days. Total cost of prenatal care, outpatient laboratories and ultrasonography, delivery, and maternal inpatient care averaged S276,481. Neonates averaged 13.7 hospital days. Total neonatal costs for the inpatient stay and short term-postpartum ( CONCLUSION: Combined maternal and neonatal costs per individual baby delivered was approximately $21,000. Although expensive, this cost is far from prohibitive, even in times of close attention to health care expenditures.
Landmark advances in the development of erythropoietin

This is a Minireview covering landmarks or milestones in the development of erythropoietin (EPO). Thirty-nine landmark advances have been identified, which cover the period 1863-2003. Several reports are included that directly support these original landmark advances. This Minireview also updates some of the advances in EPO research since my last Minireview update on EPO published in this journal in 2003. The areas of EPO research updated are: sites of production; purification, assay and standardization; regulation; action; use in anemias; extraerythropoietic actions; adverse effects; and blood doping. The new reports on the use of EPO in the therapy of myocardial infarction; stroke and other neurological diseases; diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases are also covered.
A DNA antigen that reacts with antisera to cardiolipin

Abstract DNA can replace the cardiolipin hapten in an antigen suspension that precipitates anti-cardiolipin antibody. Structural similarities between cardiolipin and DNA may explain the immunochemical cross reaction between the nucleic acid and the phospholipid molecule.
Linear Approach for Initial Recovery of the Exterior Orientation Parameters of Randomly Captured Images by Low-Cost Mobile Mapping Systems

In this paper, we present a novel linear approach for the initial recovery of the exterior orientation parameters (EOPs) of images. Similar to the conventional Structure from Motion (SfM) algorithm, the proposed approach is based on a two-step strategy. In the first step, the relative orientation of all possible image stereo-pairs is estimated. In the second step, a local coordinate frame is established, and an incremental image augmentation process is implemented to reference all the remaining images into a local coordinate frame. Since our approach is based on a linear solution for both the relative orientation estimation as well as the initial recovery of the image EOPs, it does not require any initial approximation for the optimization process. Another advantage of our approach is that it does not require any prior knowledge regarding the sequence of the image collection procedure, therefore, it can handle a set of randomly collected images in the absence of GNSS/INS information. In order to illustrate the feasibility of our approach, several experimental tests are conducted on real datasets captured in either a block or linear trajectory configuration. The results demonstrate that the initial image EOPs obtained are accurate and can serve as a good initialization for an additional bundle adjustment process.
Implications of Gender Consciousness for Students in Information Technology

This study investigates the effects of gender consciousness among students enrolled in IT programs at five U.S. universities. Based on 136 in-depth face-to-face interviews, we assess the overall level of gender consciousness among the IT students, proposing a new distinction between awareness of gender inequity and concern about such inequity, and identify characteristics of students with varying levels of gender consciousness. We then consider the relationship between level of gender consciousness and two self-efficacy measures—self-confidence and ambition—as regards the students' education and future IT careers. Our findings suggest that gender consciousness is related to lived experience, and has positive implications, via the mediating variable of self-efficacy, for women IT students' educational and professional success.
Characterization of human DSPG3, a small dermatan sulfate proteoglycan

PG-Lb is a small dermatan sulfate proteoglycan that has been previously characterized in chicken. In the developing limb, chick PG-Lb appears to be exclusively expressed in the zone of flattened chondrocytes. We have cloned and sequenced the human homolog to chick PG-Lb from two human chondrocyte cDNA libraries and a human chondrocyte RNA sample. The human homolog has been named DSPG3, as it is the third member of the small dermatan sulfate proteoglycan family to be identified and characterized along with biglycan (PG-I) and decorin (PG-II). DSPG3 maps to chromosome 12q21 and is composed of 1515 nucleotides of cDNA that code for a 322-amino-acid protein. The protein contains three potential glycosaminoglycan attachment sites, two N-glycosylation sites, a poly- glutamic acid stretch, and six cysteines. By Northern analysis, we have demonstrated that DSPG3 is expressed in cartilage, as well as ligament and placental tissues.
Approximating three-dimensional steady-state potential flow problems using two-dimensional complex polynomials

A new advance in the Complex Variable Boundary Element Method, or CVBEM, is its extension to three-dimension (3D). This advance breaks down the barrier of limiting CVBEM models to two-dimensional (2D) problems, and also opens the door to solving 3D potential problems with other 2D numerical analogs. In this paper, a 3D analog is developed using 2D basis functions of the complex analytic polynomial type. Thus, 2D complex polynomials are being applied to 3D potential problems. This new advance may be of interest to those involved in applied mathematics, complex variables, boundary elements, and numerical solution of partial differential equations of the Laplace of Poisson type.
Pedicle guide for thoracic pedicle screw placement

Study Design: Experimental design Objective: The placement of thoracic pedicle screws is challenging requiring intra-operative imaging. While increasing accuracy, these modalities increase intra-operative time, radiation to patient and surgeon and cost. We have designed a Pedicle Screw Guide (PSG) for potential use in the placement of thoracic pedicle screws to provide increased accuracy compared to free hand screw placement. Method: Two spines were imaged to measure the angle between the long axis of the pedicle and the sagittal plane from T1-T12. The cortex at the junction of the transverse process and the superior facet was penetrated using an awl. The PSG was used to make a 20 mm pilot hole into the pedicle along the trajectory calculated from the CT scans. On one side from T1-T12, pedicle screws were placed freehand based on clinical experience. On the other, pedicle screws were placed using the PSG. After placement of the screws, CT scans were obtained and pedicle violation was graded. The degree of violation was recorded for each pedicle (1: no violation, 2: 2 mm violation). Results: Two specimens were used with a total of 48 pedicles. Of the total 48-pedicle screw there were a total of 11 pedicle violations. Of these violations, 3(12.5%) were with the use of PSG, all of which were grade 2. There were 8 violations (33%) with the free hand technique. The percent error from the pre-instrumentation CT trajectory angle was 62.3% ± 39.5 and 34.3% ± 23.3 (p = 0.002) for freehand and guide assisted respectively. Conclusion: Free hand placement of thoracic pedicle screws is challenging due to the unique anatomy the thoracic spine. While intra-operative imaging techniques increase accuracy there is radiation risk to the surgeon. The use of the PSG could potentially increase accuracy while reducing cost and the risk of radiation.
Screening children at risk for school maladjustment: Further evidence for the value of the AML

This paper reports the results of two screening studies using the AML, a brief teacher rating scale, to detect school maladjustment in primary grade children. Identical experimental procedures were used in each study. Teachers in grades 1–3 in two public schools rated children using the AML. The classroom behavior of children identified by the AML as having school adjustment problems was then independently assessed. Data from well– adjusting peers were used to determine the range of normal behavior in each classroom. In Study 1 the AML successfully identified children whose classroom behavior was beyond normal limits. These findings were replicated in Study 2. Across both studies, the AML had a true-positive hit rate of 93% and a false-positive rate of only 7% in identifying school maladjustment.
Existence for the thermoelastic thermistor problem

Abstract We study a new model for the thermistor problem that consists of a system of dynamic thermoelasticity equations of displacement and a stationary charge conservation equation of electrical current. The heat source generated by Joule heating is quadratic in the gradient of the electrical potential. This system is nonlinear and degenerate since the electrical conductivity is assumed to be temperature dependent and vanishes at large temperatures. We establish the existence of a very weak solution, the so-called “capacity solution” for the model. The proof is based on regularization and time retarding.
Differential metabolism of dimethylsulfoniopropionate and acrylate in saline and brackish intertidal sediments

In anoxic Spartina altemiflora—dominated sediments along a naturally occuring salinity gradient (the Cooper River estuary, South Carolina, U.S.A.), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) was metabolized to dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and acrylate by sediment microbes. The rate of DMSP degradation and acrylate mineralization by sediment microbes was similar at all sites along this 25-km transect. However, sediments amended with acrylate (or DMSP) showed significantly higher rates of N2 fixation (measured as acetylene reduction activity) (ARA) in the saline sediments downstream than brackish sediments. These results are consistent with the fact that acrylate stimulated the rates of both denitrification and CO2 production in the saline sediments at the mouth of the river more than tenfold over rates in brackish sediments. Enrichment experiments indicate that microbes capable of using DMSP or acrylate were not present in upstream sediments despite the fact that microbial biomass, percent organic matter, and both glucose-stimulated ARA and denitrification were highest upstream. It appears that acrylate utilizing, N2 fixing, and denitrifying populations are insignificant in the lower salinity sediments of the estuary. These results may reflect the availability of DMSP, which averaged 10.3 nmol g wet wt−1 of saline sediments and levels less than our detection limit (1 μm) in brackish sediments.
Urban Ecology: An Analysis of Interdisciplinarity

Urban ecology, a new sub-discipline of ecology, aims to study human-dominated ecosystems and associated global environmental changes affecting the distribution and abundance of fauna and flora in cities and towns. Citation analysis and subject classification show that urban ecology is an emerging interdisciplinary field integrated with many life sciences disciplines, environmental science, soil and water sciences, geosciences, climatology, agricultural sciences, and geography.
EFFECT OF CAFFEINE EXPOSURE ON FETAL GROWTH IN THE RABBIT

High doses of caffeine (C) have been reported to be teratogenic in animals and persistent behavioral effects have been seen in the offspring of rodents fed C during pregnancy. We have characterized methylxanthine exposure and effects on fertility and fetal growth resulting from continuous prenatal infusion of C at doses comparable to human dietary intake in the rabbit. The rabbit was chosen for its similarities to the human in metabolism of C. 26 rabbits were administered C during gestation at rates of 0, 10 or 20 mg/kg/day via an implanted infusion pump. Does were sacrificed at 10, 20 or 29 days, and amniotic fluid, fetal CSF, plasma and gastric fluid were collected. Fluids were analyzed for C and its major metabolite paraxanthine (P), and fertility and fetal growth were assessed. P and C were homogeneously distributed in fetal fluids. Mean amniotic fluid to maternal plasma concentration ratios were 0.4 and 0.6 for P and C, respectively, increasing to 0.7 and 0.9 by the end of gestation. Methylxanthine exposure did not affect pregnancy rate, litter size or fetal weight. Length, brain weight and liver weight at 29 days were not significantly different (p>0.1). We have demonstrated that prenatal administration of C to rabbits results in significant fetal exposure to both C and P. This exposure at clinically relevant levels did not lead to structural teratology or adversely affect fertility or fetal growth. The potential for long-term alterations in behavior (behavioral teratology), however, remains to be defined by studies now in progress.
Mongolia and the Nuclear Age

This XXI century is a nuclear century since our security, development and progress depends to a certain extent on how we humans are dealing with the nuclear issues. Mongolia, as member of the world family of nations, and especially sandwiched between two nuclear-weapon powers, is directly affected by nuclear issues. There is no escape. We have to make a choice either to be passively affected by the perils of nuclear age or play an active role, to the extent possible, in shaping our own future. That depends to a great extent on us, Mongolians. Nuclear issues could be addressed from the following angles: national security, security of the people’s health and environment and energy security. DOI: 10.5564/mjia.v0i14.22 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.14 2007 pp.43-50
Minimal relation algebras

This paper is concerned with the covers of the atoms in the lattice of varieties of relation algebras. Aminimal relation algebra is one that is simple and generates such a subvariety. The main result we prove is that there are exactly three finite minimal relation algebras that aretotally symmetric (i.e., satisfy the identitiesx=x andx ≤ x; x). We also give an example of an infinite minimal totally symmetric relation algebra, and some results about other subvarieties.
Effect of all-trans-retinoic acid on nuclear RNA polymerase activity in chemically-induced rat mammary tumors

In the present study the effect of all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) on nuclear RNA polymerase activity in N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced mammary tumors was investigated. Three experimental protocols were used. (1) The tumor mince was incubated with 1 microM RA for 30 min at 30 degrees C; the RNA polymerase activity was measured in the purified nuclei and compared with control nuclei. (2) In order to evaluate the influence of retinoic binding protein on enzyme activity, mammary tumor nuclei were incubated with RA bound cytosolic retinoic acid binding protein complex (RA-CRABP) at 25 degrees C for 30 min. This step allows the complex to translocate into the nuclei. The enzyme activity in these nuclei was compared with the nuclei pre-incubated with buffer or cytosol. (3) Finally, the influence of the addition of RA-CRABP complex directly into the RNA polymerase reaction mixture was determined and compared with appropriate controls. Results indicated that the RNA polymerase activity in the nuclei of RA treated tissue as well as in the nuclei subsequent to the translocation step was significantly reduced. However, the addition of RA-CRABP into the reaction mixture did not alter the enzyme activity. These results suggest that alteration of RNA polymerase activity may be an essential step in the retinoid action in mammary tissues.
Ce3Pt4 — a local moment antiferromagnet with two metamagnetic transitions

Abstract In this paper we present the data of the magnetic susceptibility and the low temperature specific heat of Ce3Pt4. The large anomaly in the specific heat and the behaviour of the magnetic susceptibility are explained by an antiferromagnetic phase transition at TN=2.8 K. The entropy due to the phase transition is Rln2 per mole Cerium indicating a local moment antiferromagnet.
Risk judgment in Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: Testing a dual-systems account

Abstract Dual-systems theorists posit distinct modes of reasoning. The intuition system reasons automatically and its processes are unavailable to conscious introspection. The deliberation system reasons effortfully while its processes recruit working memory. The current paper extends the application of such theories to the study of Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Patients with OCD often retain insight into their irrationality, implying dissociable systems of thought: intuition produces obsessions and fears that deliberation observes and attempts (vainly) to inhibit. To test the notion that dual-systems theory can adequately describe OCD, we obtained speeded and unspeeded risk judgments from OCD patients and non-anxious controls in order to quantify the differential effects of intuitive and deliberative reasoning. As predicted, patients deemed negative events to be more likely than controls. Patients also took more time in producing judgments than controls. Furthermore, when forced to respond quickly patients' judgments were more affected than controls'. Although patients did attenuate judgments when given additional time, their estimates never reached the levels of controls’. We infer from these data that patients have genuine difficulty inhibiting their intuitive cognitive system. Our dual-systems perspective is compatible with current theories of the disorder. Similar behavioral tests may prove helpful in better understanding related anxiety disorders.
Mode Control Of An Array Of Algaas Lasers Using A Spatial Filter In A Talbot Cavity

Coherence between elements of a laser diode array can be established either by coupling the individual oscillators together on-chip or by coupling the array as a whole to an external cavity. Several techniques for on-chip coupling have been demonstrated 1,2,3, however these approaches typically produce an output having low Strehl ratio due to the difficulty of maintaining adequate control of the phase and amplitude of the emitters across the length of the chip. Several authors have reported phase locking of small laser diode arrays by placing the diode array in an external cavity and making use of a spatial filter in a Fourier transform plane of the array to force mutual coherence between the diodes 4,5,6. This technique works well for relatively small arrays, but becomes impractical for large scale arrays. Recently an external cavity technique has been demonstrated that takes advantage of the Talbot self-imaging effect 7 to phase lock an array of laser oscillators 8,9,10,11,12. A significant advantage of the Talbot cavity as opposed to previous external cavity approaches is that the Talbot cavity can be scaled to accommodate arrays containing a large number of lasers if attention is paid to control of the oscillating modes of the array. In this paper we demonstrate how mode control of an array of diode lasers in a Talbot cavity can be achieved through the use of intracavity spatial filters or phase masks. The Talbot (or "Self-Imaging") cavity makes use of the diffractive properties of the Fresnel (near-field) zone of a periodic array of coherent sources, which has a set of characteristic self-image planes associated with it. At distances 2nD2/A from the array an image of the array is formed (D is the separation between elements in the source array and n is an integer). In addition to these planes, there also exists a set of planes at distances D2/mA, (m=1,2,3,...) from the source array in which multiple images of the source are formed, we refer to these planes as "subrimage planes." In the "m-th" sub-image plane, "m" separate images of the source array are formed, the different images having relative phase shifts between them. Figure 1 shows the locations of the first few image planes and the relative phases of the images in the planes.
Effect of Chemistry Variations of Wrought N06022 Plates on the Repassivation Potential in 1 M NaCl at 90°C

ASTM standard B 575 provides the requirements for the chemical composition of Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum (Ni-Cr-Mo) alloys such as Alloy 22 (N06022). The composition of each element is given in a range (e.g., the lowest content of Mo is specified as 12.5 weight percent and the highest as 14.5 weight percent. It is important to determine the dependence of Alloy 22 electrochemical behavior on the composition of the alloying elements as they vary from the lowest to the highest end of the ranges specified in ASTM B 575 standard. Seven heats of Alloy 22 plate were melted and processed. The plates were tested in the mill annealed (MA) and solution heat treated (SHT) condition. Cyclic potentiodynamic polarization tests were performed in 1 M NaCl solution at 90°C. Results show no influence of Alloy 22 chemistry variations or heat treating on the measured repassivation potential.Copyright © 2008 by ASME and U.S. Government
Direct observation of ionic aggregates in sulphonated polystyrene ionomers

Abstract Applications of electron microscopy to ionomers have not generally been successful in the past, due to the small size of the ionic aggregates and their irregular distribution throughout the polymer matrix. Ionic domains were observed in samples of Zn2+ and Ni2+ neutralized sulphonated polystyrene (SPS), at sulphonation levels of 1.68 mol% and 3.37 mol%, using high-voltage (1.0 MeV) electron microscopy (HVEM). The specimens were solvent-cast films which contained suitable ‘thin spots’ only a few interaggregate dimensions thick. The observed contrast is not due to phase grain artifact, as demonstrated by a through-focus series of micrographs of the Zn2+ ionomer and polystyrene homopolymer. Contrast was observed only in the former case. The aggregates are approximately spherical and roughly 3 nm in diameter, and appear identical for both Ni2+ and Zn2+ materials. However, Cs+ neutralized SPS exhibited no ionic aggregates. This is probably due to the rapid rate of solvent evaporation coupled with the weaker coulombic forces in the Cs+ neutralized material, both of which hinder the formation of ionic aggregates.
Religious Variations in Perceived Infertility and Inconsistent Contraceptive Use Among Unmarried Young Adults in the United States

Abstract Purpose In this paper, we examine associations among personal religiosity, perceived infertility, and inconsistent contraceptive use among unmarried young adults (ages 18–29). Methods The data for this investigation came from the National Survey of Reproductive and Contraceptive Knowledge (n = 1,695). We used multinomial logistic regression to model perceived infertility, adjusted probabilities to model rationales for perceived infertility, and binary logistic regression to model inconsistent contraceptive use. Results Evangelical Protestants were more likely than non-affiliates to believe that they were infertile. Among the young women who indicated some likelihood of infertility, evangelical Protestants were also more likely than their other Protestant or non–Christian faith counterparts to believe that they were infertile because they had unprotected sex without becoming pregnant. Although evangelical Protestants were more likely to exhibit inconsistent contraception use than non-affiliates, we were unable to attribute any portion of this difference to infertility perceptions. Conclusions Whereas most studies of religion and health emphasize the salubrious role of personal religiosity, our results suggest that evangelical Protestants may be especially likely to hold misconceptions about their fertility. Because these misconceptions fail to explain higher rates of inconsistent contraception use among evangelical Protestants, additional research is needed to understand the principles and motives of this unique religious community.
Functional Polymers in Protein Detection Platforms: Optical, Electrochemical, Electrical, Mass-Sensitive, and Magnetic Biosensors

The rapidly growing field of proteomics and related applied sectors in the life sciences demands convenient methodologies for detecting and measuring the levels of specific proteins as well as for screening and analyzing for interacting protein systems. Materials utilized for such protein detection and measurement platforms should meet particular specifications which include ease-of-mass manufacture, biological stability, chemical functionality, cost effectiveness, and portability. Polymers can satisfy many of these requirements and are often considered as choice materials in various biological detection platforms. Therefore, tremendous research efforts have been made for developing new polymers both in macroscopic and nanoscopic length scales as well as applying existing polymeric materials for protein measurements. In this review article, both conventional and alternative techniques for protein detection are overviewed while focusing on the use of various polymeric materials in different protein sensing technologies. Among many available detection mechanisms, most common approaches such as optical, electrochemical, electrical, mass-sensitive, and magnetic methods are comprehensively discussed in this article. Desired properties of polymers exploited for each type of protein detection approach are summarized. Current challenges associated with the application of polymeric materials are examined in each protein detection category. Difficulties facing both quantitative and qualitative protein measurements are also identified. The latest efforts on the development and evaluation of nanoscale polymeric systems for improved protein detection are also discussed from the standpoint of quantitative and qualitative measurements. Finally, future research directions towards further advancements in the field are considered.
The role of β-adrenergic receptor signaling in cardioprotection

This study examines the role of the beta2-adrenergic receptor (beta2-AR) in cardioprotection. The beta2-AR couples to Gs and Gi proteins. Gs activates PKA, which phosphorylates the receptor and switches beta2-AR coupling from Gs to Gi. Prior to 20 min of global ischemia, mouse hearts were either perfused for 30 min without treatment (control), treated with 10 nmol/L of isoproterenol (ISO) for 5 min followed by 5 min washout, or preconditioned with 4 cycles of 5 min ischemia and 5 min reflow (PC). Recovery of left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) and infarct size were measured. Intermittent ISO treatment improved post-ischemic recovery of LVDP (58.5+/-4.8% vs. 22.0+/-6.3% in control) and reduced infarct size (31.0+/-2.4% vs. 53.0+/-4.6% in control). The Gi inhibitor pertussis toxin blocked the ISO-induced improvement in postischemic LVDP and infarct size. To test the role of beta2-AR in PC, we studied mice lacking beta2-AR (beta2-AR-/-) and found that PC had no effect on postischemic LVDP or infarct size in beta2-AR-/-. To test whether PKA is required for the PC and ISO-induced protection, hearts were treated with the PKA inhibitors PKI and H-89. We found that PKI and H-89 blocked the PC- and ISO-induced improvement in postischemic LVDP and infarct size. These data show an important role for beta2-AR in cardioprotection and support the novel hypothesis that preconditioning involves switching of beta2-AR coupling from Gs to Gi.
Polystyrene nanocomposites based on quinolinium and pyridinium surfactants

In this paper pyridine and quinoline-containing salts were employed to modify montmorillonite. TGA analysis shows that the quinolinium modified clay has a higher thermal stability than the pyridinium modified clay. Polystyrene nanocomposites were prepared by in situ bulk polymerisation and direct melt blending using both clays. The X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results show the formation of intercalated structures. The 50% degradation temperature of the nanocomposites is increased and so is the amount of char from TGA analysis compared to the virgin polymer. Cone calorimetric results indicate that clay reduces the peak heat release rate and average mass loss rate and thus lowers the flammability of the polymer.
Double layer interaction between two plates with polyelectrolyte brushes.

Abstract When polyelectrolyte chains are grafted to colloidal particles, the electric field between particles is affected by the charges of the chains. In some previous theoretical attempts, the charge density of the polyelectrolyte chains per unit length was considered constant, and its effect was accounted for by introducing an additional constant charge density into the unidimensional Poisson–Boltzmann equation, which was evaluated assuming that it is uniformly distributed in the polyelectrolyte volume of the brush. In this paper, a more detailed model is employed for the calculation of the electrical potential between two plates on which polyelectrolyte brushes are present. In this model, the polyelectrolyte chain is viewed as a rigid cylinder, on the surface of which charges are generated through the dissociation of ionizable sites and adsorption of the cations of the electrolyte. To each of the chains an atmosphere is attached which for simplicity is assumed cylindrical. In the brush region, the electrical potential is described by a two-dimensional Poisson–Boltzmann equation, while in the region free of polyelectrolyte chains by a unidimensional Poisson–Boltzmann equation. Such a model is physically suitable when the charges of the chains are sufficiently large for the repulsion they generate to ensure that the chains are fully extended. Such cases are quite frequent, because relatively low charges lead to an almost complete extension of the chains. In this paper, both the plate surface and the surface of the cylinders are considered charged. The effects of electrolyte concentration, pH, brush thickness and chain coverage density on the repulsion between plates are examined.
First experimental demonstration of Ge CMOS circuits

We report the first experimental demonstration of Ge CMOS circuits, based on a novel recessed channel and S/D technique. Aggressively scaled non-Si CMOS logic devices with channel lengths (L ch ) from 500 to 20 nm, channel thicknesses (T ch ) of 25 and 15 nm, EOTs of 4.5 and 3 nm and a small width ratio (W n :W p =1.2) are realized on a Ge-on-insulator (GeOI) substrate. The CMOS inverters have high voltage gain of up to 36 V/V, which is the best value among all of the non-Si CMOS results by the standard top-down approach. Scalability studies on Ge CMOS inverters down to 20 nm are carried out for the first time. NAND and NOR logic gates are also investigated.
The analysis of pulmonary and cardiovascular parameters with a mathematical model of external respiration

Abstract The behavior of the external respiratory system was described by a set of differential equations. The system was solved by digital computer, to express the relationship between stationary cycle blood gas tensions and fixed cardiac and respiratory parameters. Dynamic respiratory maneuvers were simulated for different values of these parameters to investigate the feasibility of estimating cardiac output, respiratory dead space, and ventilation-perfusion distribution, from flow and composition of expired air, using non-linear regression techniques.
Stock market returns and clinical trial results of investigational compounds: an event study analysis of large biopharmaceutical companies.

Background For biopharmaceutical companies, investments in research and development are risky, and the results from clinical trials are key inflection points in the process. Few studies have explored how and to what extent the public equity market values clinical trial results. Methods Our study dataset matched announcements of clinical trial results for investigational compounds from January 2011 to May 2013 with daily stock market returns of large United States-listed pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Event study methodology was used to examine the relationship between clinical research events and changes in stock returns. Results We identified public announcements for clinical trials of 24 investigational compounds, including 16 (67%) positive and 8 (33%) negative events. The majority of announcements were for Phase 3 clinical trials (N = 13, 54%), and for oncologic (N = 7, 29%) and neurologic (N = 6, 24%) indications. The median cumulative abnormal returns on the day of the announcement were 0.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: –2.3, 13.4%; P = 0.02) for positive events and –2.0% (95% CI: –9.1, 0.7%; P = 0.04) for negative events, with statistically significant differences from zero. In the day immediately following the announcement, firms with positive events were associated with stock price corrections, with median cumulative abnormal returns falling to 0.4% (95% CI: –3.8, 12.3%; P = 0.33). For firms with negative announcements, the median cumulative abnormal returns were –1.7% (95% CI: –9.5, 1.0%; P = 0.03), and remained significantly negative over the two day event window. The magnitude of abnormal returns did not differ statistically by indication, by trial phase, or between biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms. Conclusions The release of clinical trial results is an economically significant event and has meaningful effects on market value for large biopharmaceutical companies. Stock return underperformance due to negative events is greater in magnitude and persists longer than abnormal returns due to positive events, suggesting asymmetric market reactions.
The localization of 5 hydroxytryptamine in chromaffin cells of the leech body wall

The present study is an analysis of the sites of uptake of radioactive 5-HT into the leech body wall. Two sites of uptake are noted: (1) the axons and nerve terminals containing large dense core vesicles and (2) the type I cells of the vasofibrous tissue. Both of these cell types are chromaffin cells in that they contain vesicles or granules with cores that reduce dichromate salts. Chemicla analysis indicates that most of the radioactivity in the body wall at the time of sacrifice is 5-HT. Thus, these two cell types acquire 5-HT when it is present in the extracellular environment and presumably store it in the cores of the vesicles of granules that characterize these cells. This acquisition of 5-HT may be an impotrant method of inactivation for 5-HT. In addition, the fine structure of the vasofibrous tissues is described here for the first time. There are two types of cells in the vasofibrous tissue, rather than one as previously thought, and the electorn microscope clearly shows that the fibrils of vasofibrous tissue are not pigmented capillaries.
On hamiltonian line graphs

We give best possible Ore-like conditions for a graph so that its line graph is Hamiltonian.
The Role of Electrical Stimulation in Bone Repair

Electric and electromagnetic fields regulate extra-cellular matrix synthesis and stimulate repair of fractures and nonunions. Studies of electric and electromagnetic fields suggest they (1) regulate proteoglycan and collagen synthesis and increase bone formation in models of endochondral ossification, (2) accelerate bone formation and repair, (3) increase union rates in fractures previously refractory to healing, and (4) produce results equivalent to bone grafts. Electric and electromagnetic fields regulate the expression of genes in connective tissue cells for extra-cellular matrix proteins, which results in an increase in cartilage and bone. They also increase gene expression for and synthesis of growth factors, which may be an intermediary mechanism of activity and may amplify field effects through autocrine and paracrine signaling.
Consolidation of Hydrophobic Transition Criteria by Using an Approximate Energy Minimization Approach

Recent experimental work has successfully revealed pressure induced transition from Cassie to Wenzel state on rough hydrophobic substrates. Formulas, based on geometric considerations and imposed pressure, have been developed as transition criteria. In the past, transition has also been considered as a process of overcoming the energy barrier between the Cassie and Wenzel states. A unified understanding of the various considerations of transition has not been apparent. To address this issue, in this work, we consolidate the transition criteria with a homogenized energy minimization approach. This approach decouples the problem of minimizing the energy to wet the rough substrate, from the energy of the macroscopic drop. It is seen that the transition from Cassie to Wenzel state, due to depinning of the liquid-air interface, emerges from the approximate energy minimization approach if the pressure-volume energy associated with the impaled liquid in the roughness is included. This transition can be viewed as a process in which the work done by the pressure force is greater than the barrier due to the surface energy associated with wetting the roughness. It is argued that another transition mechanism, due to a sagging liquid-air interface that touches the bottom of the roughness grooves, is not typically relevant if the substrate roughness is designed such that the Cassie state is at lower energy compared to the Wenzel state.
Injury deaths among Finnish residents travelling abroad

The increasing international mobility raises the possibility of foreign nationals dying abroad. Here, a descriptive, retrospective and population-based study of deaths abroad among Finnish residents from 1969 to 2007 is presented. The data were collected from the Statistics Finland data based on certificates of cause of death issued after repatriation of the corpse and after review of medical documents or a medico-legal autopsy. The frequency of injury deaths, proportional mortality rates (PMRs) and mortality risk estimates (MREs) were measured. During the study period, 6894 Finnish residents died abroad. Spain, Sweden and Thailand were the top three destination countries for number of deaths, accounting together for 40.3% of all the deaths. Cardiovascular diseases were the most common cause of deaths. The overall injury deaths represented 26.7% of all deaths abroad and occurred at a higher proportion than in Finland (PMR: 3.3). The most common injury deaths were traffic accident and drowning, which together represented more than 50% of all unintentional injury deaths. High PMRs were found for traffic accidents in Russia, Germany and the US and for drowning in Spain, Portugal, Greece and Turkey. The MRE for injury deaths was 73.5 per 100,000 person-years of exposure. Finnish travellers abroad are a population subgroup with a high risk of injury death. Common travel health interventions must be backed by actions to prevent injuries abroad, particularly traffic accident and drowning.