cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High aspect ratio polymer microstructures and cantilevers for bioMEMS using low energy ion beam and photolithography

In this paper, the high etching selectivity of different fluoropolymers and for the fabrication of high aspect ratio polymer (HARP) microstructures is reported. Free standing polymer cantilevers for the development of transparent fluoropolymer-based microfluidic devices are presented. Fluoropolymers, such as Teflon®-based polymers, are hydrophobic and inert to most solvents and chemicals. The low surface energy of fluoropolymers makes the fabrication of microstructures from these substrates most difficult when using conventional silicon microfabrication steps. Low energy ion beam methods are used to improve the wetting characteristics of photoresists on a family of fluoropolymers including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Tefzel®, fluoroethylenepropylene (FEP), and Teflon® AF. Satisfactory pattern transfer capability down to submicron dimensions is achieved through low energy ion beam technology. The optimum selectivity of etch rates between fluoropolymers and photoresists is determined through variations of incident beam angles for multilayer integration. HARP microstructures and cantilever arrays of fluoropolymers are achieved by controlling surface profile with the high etching selectivity between different polymers and an oblique angle of incident beam. These polymer cantilevers have direct applications as biochemically functionalized tips for an atomic force microscope or as near field probes within integrated microfluidic systems.
Riboflavin transport by rabbit renal brush border membrane vesicles

The present study examined riboflavin (RF) uptake by isolated rabbit renal brush border membrane (BBM). RF uptake was linear for up to 30 s and leveled off thereafter reaching an equilibrium with longer incubation. Studies on RF uptake as a function of incubation medium osmolarity indicated that the uptake was the results of transport (61.4%) into the intravesicular space as well as binding (38.6%) to membrane surfaces. The process of RF uptake was saturable as a function of substrate concentration with an apparent Km of 25.7 +/- 7.6 microM and Vmax of 75.6 +/- 14.7 pmol/mg protein/10 s. cis-Addition of unlabeled RF and its structural analogues, lumiflavin and lumichrome, inhibited the uptake of [3H]RF significantly, indicating the involvement of a carrier-mediated process in RF uptake by renal BBM. RF uptake by renal BBM was partly Na+-dependent so that when Na+ was replaced by potassium, choline, lithium or tetramethylammonium, the RF uptake was reduced to ca. 60% of the control. This Na+-dependency was unlikely to be due to Na+-cotransport mechanism because RF uptake occurred without the characteristic 'overshoot' phenomenon as for other Na+-cotransport systems and the elimination of transmembrane Na+-gradient by preloading Na+ to the intravesicular space did not affect RF uptake. In contrast, removal of Na+ eliminated the binding component of RF uptake, suggesting the requirement of Na+ for RF binding to BBM. The RF uptake was not affected when extravesicular pH was varied within the physiological pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. No effect on BBM [3H]RF uptake was found when the transmembrane electrical potential was altered by either the presence of anions with different membrane permeability (Cl- = NO3- > SO4- > gluconate-) or by using nigericin (10 microg/mg protein) with an outwardly or inwardly directed transmembrane K+ gradient. The uptake of RF by BBM vesicles was, however, inhibited by probenecid and organic anion transport inhibitors, 4,4-diiso-thiocyanatostilbene-2,2-disulfonic acid (DIDS, 1 mM) and 4-acetamido-4-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2-disulfonic acid (SITS, 1 mM). In summary, these results demonstrate the existence of a membrane-associated, and organic anion inhibitor-sensitive, carrier system for RF uptake by renal BBM.
Stability and Sex Differences on the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory for Students in Grades Two to Twelve

This study reassessed the presence or absence of sex differences and investigated the stability of self-esteem as measured by Coopersmith's Self-esteem Inventory over 6 mo. for Grades 2 to 12. The subjects were 591 students, 296 male and 295 female, enrolled in an urban central Maine school district. No sex differences were found on any of the subscales or total scale score on either the pretest or posttests by grade. Significant correlations, small to moderate in size, were found for all grades on two scales, general self and total self. The results and implications are discussed.
Non-COX-2 targets and cancer: Expanding the molecular target repertoire of chemoprevention

Chemoprevention represents a highly promising approach for the control of cancer. That nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prevent colon and other cancers has led to novel approaches to cancer prevention. The known inhibitory effect of NSAIDs on the eicosanoid pathway prompted mechanistic and drug development work focusing on cyclooxygenase (COX), culminating in clinical trials of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) inhibitors for cancer prevention or treatment. However, two COX-2 inhibitors have been withdrawn due to side effects. Here we review several pathways of the eicosanoid cascade that are relevant to cancer; summarize the evidence regarding the role of COX-2 as a target for cancer prevention; and discuss several of the molecular targets that may mediate the chemopreventive effect of NSAIDs. The clinically modest results obtained to date with COX-2 specific inhibitors used in cancer prevention; the multiple COX-2-indpendent targets of both NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors; and the limitations of some COX-2 inhibitors indicate that exploiting these (non-COX-2) molecular targets will likely yield effective new approaches for cancer chemoprevention.
Abstract B59: Patterns of breast cancer mortality over 10 years by tumor phenotype and Hispanic versus non-Hispanic white ethnicity

Introduction: Breast cancer tumor phenotypes, defined by expression of hormone receptor status, have been found to be biologically distinct and to influence treatment and survival. Tumor phenotypes are relevant to therapeutic response and length of survival and could explain ethnic-related variation in breast cancer survival. Some studies have reported that Hispanic (H) women are more likely to have ER- and triple negative (ER-, PR-, HER2-) tumors than non-Hispanic white (NHW), and have poorer survival. The purpose of this study was to determine if tumor phenotype influences the difference in survival between H and NHW women with breast cancer. Study Population and Methods: Data from the New Mexico site of a collaborative, population-based cohort, the ‘Health, Eating, Activity, Lifestyle’ (HEAL) Study, were analyzed to compare Hispanic to non-Hispanic white women for patterns of early and late mortality over approximately 10 years of follow-up, and to assess the influence of tumor phenotype as defined by ER, PR, and HER2 hormone receptor status (+/-). The analysis included 533 women (126 H, 407 NHW) diagnosed with their first primary of breast cancer between 1996 and 1999. Hormone receptor status was determined by immunohistochemistry. Other prognostic tumor characteristics were abstracted from medical records by the SEER New Mexico Tumor Registry. Results: The risk of breast cancer mortality was higher in H than NHW women, adjusting for significant covariates, including tumor phenotype, age at baseline interview and SEER summary stage during the first four to six years after baseline interview (HR4yrs=2.33 (95%CI 1.27–4.26); HR6yrs=2.07 (95%CI 1.24–3.45), but was attenuated at 10 years; HR10yrs=1.51 (1.00–2.28). This time-dependent pattern of mortality was also found for ER-compared to ER+ tumors (HR4yrs=2.14 (95%CI 1.12–4.10); HR6yrs=1.89 (95%CI 1.08–3.32); HR10yrs=1.39 (95%CI 0.87–2.23), adjusting for age at baseline interview, stage and ethnicity. The pattern was similar for the triple negative phenotype, but the HR estimates were more unstable, due to the smaller sample sizes across phenotype categories. Adjustment for tumor phenotype had little impact on the estimates for ethnicity ( Conclusion: Ethnicity and tumor phenotype appear to have independent effects on breast cancer mortality in this population-based cohort of women with breast cancer. The effects of both ethnicity and tumor phenotype are greater for early mortality and diminish with time, and are independent of age and stage of disease. This time-dependent effect has not been previously reported for H compared to NHW women. These results suggest the need to explore factors other than tumor phenotype that may explain the difference between H and NHW women for breast cancer survival. Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011;20(10 Suppl):B59.
The perioperative nurse's role in assisted-fertility procedures.

ABSTRACT Infertility is the inability to achieve pregnancy within a stipulated period of time (ie, one year) or the repeated failure to carry a pregnancy to term. Advances in assistive reproductive technology have enabled many couples to overcome infertility, but health care providers need to remember that these couples require much support. This article addresses the perioperative nurse's responsibilities during assisted-fertility procedures that are performed in the OR (eg, transvaginal oocyte retrieval, gamete intrafallopian transfer, zygote intrafallopian transfer). AORN J 65 (Jan 1997) 87–93.
The Role of Self-efficacy in Improving Dietary Behaviors for Reduction of Nutrition-related Cancers

Abstract The effect of dietary self-efficacy on nutrient intake to reduce risk of cancer was studied in a prospective quasi- experimental design. It is estimated that an average of 35% of cancer deaths may be related to diet. Self-efficacy, a construct in social learning theory, may serve as a basis for the identification of methods to enhance healthy eating behaviors. Self-efficacy suggests that conviction in an ability to perform a skill determines which behaviors a person will engage in, how he or she will endure, and how much effort he or she will employ to achieve personal goals. Eat for Life, a nutrition and cancer prevention program, was developed to enhance one's self-efficacy by promoting positive outcome expectations, by providing clear dietary messages and encouraging participants to attempt small steps towards changes in eating habits. A self-efficacy questionaire was developed and pre-tested with a resulting coefficient reliability of 0.71±03 (baseline, pre-test, two post-tests). It measured three constructs: skills, integration of cognitive, personal and skill beliefs, and confidence. Subjects (n=82) were recruited from promotional fliers and media coverage and randomized into four groups. They participated in a three part educational series. Each program session was designed to build upon the skills and knowledge of the preceding class. Prior to the intervention and at one week and six months post-intervention subjects completed four day food diaries and self-efficacy questionnaires. Self-efficacy increased from the pre-test to both post-tests 17% (p
Belief Propagation for Distributed Downlink Beamforming in Cooperative MIMO Cellular Networks

We propose a new graphical model approach to cooperative multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) cellular networks. The objective is to optimize downlink transmit beamforming at each BS in order to maximize the sum throughput over the entire network. While ideal centralized beamforming requires full channel state information (CSI) sharing among all BSs in the network and huge computational complexity for combinatorial optimization, the proposed graphical model enables distributed beamforming which requires only local CSI sharing between neighboring BSs and efficiently solves the optimization problem in a distributed manner. As distributed solvers for this problem, we derive message-passing algorithms which can be implemented with polynomial-time computational complexity. Furthermore, we make a slight approximation on the objective function to derive a simpler graphical model, providing further complexity saving. Simulation results indicate that the proposed distributed downlink beamforming achieves average cell throughput typically within just 2% of ideal centralized beamforming.
Autocracy, Elections, and Fiscal Policy: Evidence from Malaysia

Authoritarian regimes often use fiscal policy to reward political supporters and to punish political opponents. In many authoritarian regimes with political institutions like parties, legislatures, and elections, elections become a focal point for budget expenditures and the distribution of government patronage. A time-series analysis of Malaysian fiscal expenditures from 1967 to 1997 shows that the ruling coalition systematically increases federal government spending before elections. In addition to marshalling private resources to distribute patronage, the Malaysian government manipulates the government’s official position. These findings have important implications for the growing literature on political institutions under autocratic regimes and the politics of patronage and redistribution in the developing world. They also suggest a new empirical domain for existing theories of political business cycles.
Exhaustive search and solvated interaction energy (SIE) for virtual screening and affinity prediction

We carried out a prospective evaluation of the utility of the SIE (solvation interaction energy) scoring function for virtual screening and binding affinity prediction. Since experimental structures of the complexes were not provided, this was an exercise in virtual docking as well. We used our exhaustive docking program, Wilma, to provide high-quality poses that were rescored using SIE to provide binding affinity predictions. We also tested the combination of SIE with our latest solvation model, first shell of hydration (FiSH), which captures some of the discrete properties of water within a continuum model. We achieved good enrichment in virtual screening of fragments against trypsin, with an area under the curve of about 0.7 for the receiver operating characteristic curve. Moreover, the early enrichment performance was quite good with 50% of true actives recovered with a 15% false positive rate in a prospective calculation and with a 3% false positive rate in a retrospective application of SIE with FiSH. Binding affinity predictions for both trypsin and host–guest complexes were generally within 2 kcal/mol of the experimental values. However, the rank ordering of affinities differing by 2 kcal/mol or less was not well predicted. On the other hand, it was encouraging that the incorporation of a more sophisticated solvation model into SIE resulted in better discrimination of true binders from binders. This suggests that the inclusion of proper Physics in our models is a fruitful strategy for improving the reliability of our binding affinity predictions.
Novel dielectrophoretic filtration methods and designs

A dielectrophoretic oil filter concept utilizing three-dimensional electrode geometries for electric and flow field shaping is introduced. Dielectrophoretic separation systems that incorporate planar microelectrodes cannot effectively filter large amounts of fluids because the dielectrophoretic force rapidly decays as the distance from the electrodes increases. 3D electrode designs for flow-through dielectrophoretic separation/concentration/filtration systems are advantageous because 1) The 3D electrodes extend the electric field within the fluid. 2) The electrodes can be designed so that the velocity field as well as the electric field is shaped for maximum efficiency. and 3) Filtration of particles that are too small to be physically filtered is possible. Three novel electrode designs that are not based on 2D electrode designs are introduced. Initial experimental results from particle count analysis that suggest that a reduction of up to 90% of particulate contaminants could be achieved are presented (It is important to note that the standard deviation was large due to the small number of particles within view and the uneven distribution of particles within the oil).
Mechanisms of estrogen-independent breast cancer growth driven by low estrogen concentrations are unique versus complete estrogen deprivation

Despite the success of the aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in treating estrogen receptor positive breast cancer, 15-20 % of patients receiving adjuvant AIs will relapse within 5-10 years of treatment initiation. Long-term estrogen deprivation (LTED) of breast cancer cells in culture mimics AI-induced estrogen depletion to dissect mechanisms of AI resistance. However, we hypothesized that a subset of patients receiving AI therapy may maintain low circulating concentrations of estrogens that influence the development of endocrine resistance. We expanded established LTED models to account for incomplete suppression of estrogen synthesis during AI therapy. MCF-7 cells were grown in medium with charcoal-stripped serum supplemented with defined concentrations of 17β-estradiol (E2) or the estrogenic androgen metabolite 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol (3βAdiol), an endogenous selective estrogen receptor modulator. Cells were selected in concentrations of E2 or 3βAdiol that induce 10 or 90 percent of maximal proliferation (EC(10) and EC(90), respectively), or estrogen deprived. Estrogen independence was evaluated during selection by assessing cell growth in the absence or presence of E2 or 3βAdiol. Following >7 months of selection, estrogen independence developed in estrogen-deprived cells and EC(10)-selected cells. Functional analyses demonstrated that estrogen-deprived and EC(10)-selected cells developed estrogen independence via unique mechanisms, ERα-independent and dependent, respectively. Estrogen-independent proliferation in EC(10)-selected cells could be blocked by kinase inhibitors. However, these cells were resistant to kinase inhibition in the presence of low steroid concentrations. These data demonstrate that further understanding of the total estrogen environment in patients on AI therapy who experience recurrence is necessary to effectively treat endocrine-resistant disease.
Plasma lactate levels during baseline and blood pressure conditioning in the baboon

Lactic acid in arterial blood, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and heart rates of baboons were examined for three naive subjects, and for five experimental subjects during baseline conditions and during training to elevate diastolic blood pressure through operant conditioning methodology. Lactic acid and cardiovascular levels were determined at rest (9 a.m.), and at 12:30 and 3:00 p.m. (during conditioning sessions, for trained subjects). At rest (baseline) lactic acid levels and cardiovascular measures were similar for conditioned and naive subjects. During conditioning sessions, blood pressures but not heart rates were significantly elevated. Plasma lactate increased from morning to afternoon in both naive and trained subjects, but at three hours of conditioning, trained subjects had significantly higher lactate levels than when at rest and when compared to naive subjects at the same time of day. This study provides normative data for plasma lactate in the laboratory baboon and also indicates metabolic changes (which may be related to increased muscular work) as part of concurrent changes in multiple systems (e.g., neural, hormonal) which accompany conditioned blood pressure elevations.
Using the Character Development Model in the Group Counseling Context With a Court-Mandated Substance Abuse Client: A Clinical Report

Court-mandated substance-abusing clients often have years of use that has slowly eroded their character development. Substance abuse clients are particularly challenging because the use of substances often affects several life domains simultaneously. Group counseling has long been the mainstay of treatment for this population, and various interventions are available for therapists who practice group counseling. The study of character development is an emerging trend in three theoretical orientations—dynamic psychiatry, transpersonal psychiatry, and positive psychology (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). The authors present a self-assessment instrument, the Character Identity Inventory (Hall, 2006), which helps both therapist and client to identify strengths and weaknesses of character. The Character Identity Development Model (Hall) is an adaptation from the character development and positive psychology literature and can be used as a therapeutic framework to integrate the components of character development int...
Perceived norms for thinness and muscularity among college students: What do men and women really want?

Background Perceived norms are related to health-related attitudes and behaviors, including body image. The current study examined body dissatisfaction and perceived norms for thinness and muscularity among male and female college students.
Sensitivity of early-life-stage golden trout to low pH and elevated aluminum

Early-life-stage golden trout (Oncorhynchus aguabonita) were exposed to acid and Al to examine the response and determine the sensitivity of a western, alpine salmonid to conditions simulating an episodic pH depression. Freshly fertilized eggs, alevins, and swim-up larvae were exposed for 7 d to one of 12 combinations of pH and Al, and surviving fish were held to 40 d post-hatch to determine the effect of exposure on subsequent survival and recovery. Golden trout are sensitive to conditions simulating episodic acidification events typically observed in the field. Significant mortality occurred when the pH of test waters was below 5.0 in the absence of Al or when pH was 5.5 in the presence of 100 [mu]g/L total Al. Behavioral impairments were sensitive indicators of low pH and Al stress. Impaired locomotory and feeding behavior occurred at pH 5.5 without Al and at Al concentrations [>=] [mu]g/L. In contrast, growth, RNA-to-DNA ratio, and whole-body ion concentration were relatively less sensitive indicators of sublethal acid and Al stress.
The high-flexion knee: The myth continues–In affirmation

Abstract Debate about high flexion total knee arthroplasty designs continues. Advocates suggest these prosthetic modifications safely accommodate a higher degree of flexion, while others question the implant ability and the need for greater flexion. The literature suggests a biomechanical advantage in deep flexion with equal clinical results when compared to conventional designs. The degree of flexion achieved after total knee arthroplasty is multifactorial, and implants alone cannot overcome other limiting factors. High flexion total knee designs include modifications to biomechanically improve flexion. This can be beneficial to the evolution of implant design, but the question remains as to the necessity of a "high flexion total knee."
Osmole and water excretion in mercurial diuresis in congestive heart failure.

The relationhip between water and total solute excretion following mercurial administration has been previously studied in normal human subjects during superimposed water and solute diureses. It is the purpose of the study to determine the solute/water relationships in the mercurial diuresis produced in water-deprived patients with edema from congestive heart failure. The results indicate that in such patients, the diuresis produced has the relationship of a simple osmotic diuresis. The clinical implications are discussed.
Magnetic resonance studies of ZnO

Abstract We have used EPR and ODMR to study state-of-the-art bulk ZnO single crystals. Most of the samples are n-type; however, under certain conditions (e-irradiated or annealed), we observe a center due to residual nitrogen (g∥=1.9953, g⊥=1.9633 and Aiso=1.225 mT, Aaniso=0.864 mT). The N center is a nitrogen p-orbital along the c-axis, very similar to P or As in ZnSe, which have a Jahn-Teller distorted, deep state, seen in EPR. The intensity of the N center is strongly anisotropic, as would be expected for shallow heavy-hole acceptors with m J =± 3 2 in which the magnetic dipole transition is forbidden for B ∥ c and becomes allowed away from that orientation due to mixing with m J =± 1 2 states. The EPR spectra for the n-type samples are dominated by delocalized donors (g∥=1.9570 and g⊥=1.9551). In one sample, the donor appears to be localized. These crystals also exhibit a broad PL band at 2.5 eV. ODMR on the 2.5 eV “green” PL band reveals an S=1 triplet center (not seen in EPR) with spin-Hamiltonian parameters of D=0.763 GHz, g∥=1.9710, and g⊥=2.0224. ODMR of shallow donors is also observed as a luminescence-decreasing feature on the 2.5 eV green emission band.
Regularization of contour dynamical algorithms. I. tangential regularization

Abstract Contour dynamical methods are being applied to a variety of inviscid incompressible flows in two dimensions. These generalizations of the “waterbag” method provide simplified models for following the evolution of contours x (J) that separate regions of constant density which are the sources of the flow. The inviscid evolution of contour j , x t (j) is usually an area-preserving map. For physically unstable problems, a piecewise-constant initial condition may result in an ill-posed problem. That is, contours may rapidly grow in perimeter and/or develop singularities and numerically induced small-scale structures in a finite time. To avoid such problems and model realistic weakly dissipative or weakly dispersive flows, contour regularization procedures are required. Dissipative and dispersive tangential regularization procedures for one contour are introduced. A special case of the former, namely ẋ t = μx ss , corresponds in lowest order to a linear diffusion operator in two dimensions. The contour is parameterized with arc length using cubic splines and an adaptive curvature controlled node adjustment algorithm is used. A modified Crank-Nicolson method is used to solve the discrete representation of the full system, x t = x t +μx ss . Numerical results are given for the evolution of initially elliptical shapes according to prescribed area-preserving maps. The numerical results for area evolution agree with analytical results.
A survey of computer‐aided design: Implications for creativity, productivity, decision making, and job satisfaction

A survey of computer-aided design (CAD) usage was performed to investigate the relationship between CAD tools and four aspects of the designer's job which included productivity, creativity, decision making, and job satisfaction. Several designers (n & 117) representing 19 companies and 3 major universities were administered a CAD questionnaire designed to determine whether CAD utilization improved user performance in the four main job areas. The results indicated that those features which aided the designer in visualizing the structure of the CAD model or allowed the designer to directly manipulate the CAD model, such as rotations, were highly rated tools. Further, those features which resulted in slow system response times, such as engineering analysis, were evaluated as less useful in terms of the four job categories. Implications of the results for the design of CAD systems is discussed.
Reliability-aware energy minimization for real-time embedded systems with window-constraints

In this work, we propose a reliability-aware energy minimization scheme that can satisfy the window-constraints, i.e., no more than xi deadlines are missed in each nonoverlapped sequence of yi jobs in real-time task τi. The simulation reveals that our proposed techniques can outperform previous ones in energy reduction for real-time systems with reliability awareness under window-constraints.
Classroom Questioning with Immediate Electronic Response: Do Clickers Improve Learning?.

A number of studies have focused on how students and instructors feel about digital learning technologies. This research is focused on the substantive difference in learning outcomes between traditional classrooms and classrooms using clickers. A randomized block experimental design involving four sections of undergraduate Operations Management classes was used to determine if clicker systems increase student learning of both quantitative and conceptual material in Operations Management. Learning was measured using the difference between the scores on an entrance examination and the final examination. The findings of this research provide evidence that the use of immediate feedback using a technology like clickers can have a positive impact on student learning as measured by test scores.
Influence of Acoustic Noise on the Dynamic Performance of MEMS Gyroscopes

Advances in MEMS technology have resulted in relatively low cost gyroscopes and accelerometers and, correspondingly, inexpensive inertial measurement systems. This has opened up the field of applications for inertial measurement units (IMUs) and they are currently being proposed for use in a wide variety of possible applications, with environmental conditions ranging from mild to harsh. Of particular interest in this study are MEMS gyroscopes, which are based upon vibratory, rather than rotational, designs and are especially susceptible to the effects of acoustic noise, as compared to conventional gyroscopes. This is particularly true for certain applications. For example, in some aerospace environments, noise levels can be greater than 120 dB and extend over a frequency range greater than 20 kHz. Output signals can be overwhelmed by such effects, becoming extremely contaminated and noisy and, can even be completely saturated. So, it is important to develop an understanding of the influence of high levels of noise on MEMS gyroscope performance and to develop methodologies to mitigate such effects. In the present investigation, a series of experimental studies were conducted for a variety of MEMS gyroscope designs. Each unit was exposed to a range of acoustic noise amplitudes and frequencies. The output signals were recorded and analyzed. The results are presented and discussed in detail. Strategies for mitigating such effects were identified and tested. Those results are also discussed in detailed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Entertaining Shopping Experiences: An Exploratory Investigation

Abstract Previous research has provided much evidence to support the notion that shopping can be entertaining. In addition, many retailers are continually seeking new ways to entertain their customers. Although several studies have identified the existence of entertaining shopping experiences, few studies have investigated the factors important to the creation of these experiences. Using the critical incident technique, 724 incidents were collected and two broad groups including nine unique factors were found to be characteristic of entertaining shopping experiences. The two broad groups were retailer factors and customer factors. Retailer factors include selection, prices, store environment, and salespeople, while customer factors include social, task, time, involvement, and financial resources. Interestingly, customer factors were mentioned more often than retail factors in respondents’ descriptions of entertaining shopping experiences.
Effect of neoaplectanid and heterorhabitid nematodes (Nematoda: Rhabditoidea) on the millipede Oxidus gracilis

Abstract At high dosages, infective-stage juveniles of Neoaplectana carpocapsae and Heterorhabditis heliothidis were able to penetrate into and kill the garden millipede. Nematode development was inhibited by host defense reactions which consisted of encapsulation and enmeshment in tracheoles and connective tissue surrounding the millipede's midgut. Foreign bacteria quickly entered the millipede's hemocoel at death and out-competed the nematode's symbiotic bacteria, Xenorhabdus sp. The dauer stages of an unidentified rhabditid nematode were associated with the living millipede. These nematodes reproduced on the millipede's cadaver.
Solvent and Viscosity Effects on the Rate-Limiting Product Release Step of Glucoamylase during Maltose Hydrolysis

Release of product from the active site is the rate-limiting step in a number of enzymatic reactions, including maltose hydrolysis by glucoamylase (GA). With GA, an enzymatic conformational change has been associated with the product release step. Solvent characteristics such as viscosity can strongly influence protein conformational changes. Here we show that the rate-limiting step of GA has a rather complex dependence on solvent characteristics. Seven different cosolvents were added to the GA/maltose reaction solution. Five of the cosolvents, all having an ethylene glycol base, resulted in an increase in activity at low concentration of cosolvent and variable decreases in activity at higher concentrations. The increase in enzyme activity was dependent on polymer length of the cosolvent; the longer the polymer, the lower the concentration needed. The maximum increase in catalytic activity at 45 degrees C (40-45%) was obtained with the three longest polymers (degree of polymerization from 200 to 8000). A further increase in activity to 60-65% was obtained at 60 degrees C. The linear relationship between ln(kcat) and (viscosity)2 obtained with all the cosolvents provides further evidence that product release is the rate-limiting step in the GA catalytic mechanism. A substantial increase in the turnover rate of GA by addition of relatively small amounts of a cosolvent has potential applications for the food industry where high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is one of the primary products produced with GA. Since maltodextrin hydrolysis by GA is by far the slowest step in the production of HFCS, increasing the catalytic rate of GA can substantially reduce the process time.
Germ‐cell tumors in patients with apparently normal testes

Germ-cell tumors occasionally occur in patients with clinically normal testes. Although data exist correlating serial serum hCG and AFP in gem-cell neoplasms of testicular origin, the literature is sparse concerning the patients presenting with clinically normal testes. Presented in this report are data to confirm the reliability and usefulness of serial serum hCG and AFP levels in those patients with extragonadal germ-cell tumors and apparently normal testes. Six patients with nonseminomatous extragonadal tumors are presented. Serial serum hCG and AFP levels correlated with the clinical course in each of the patients. The serum hCG and/or AFP decreased with response to therapy and increased with progression of disease. It is concluded that serial serum hCG and AFP determinations are very useful parameters to evaluate and follow the course of disease in this group of patients.
Formtreue Makrocyclen: Strukturen und Synthesen aus Arylen‐ und Ethinylen‐Bausteinen

Formtreue Arylenethinylen-Makrocyclen mit ihren besonderen Strukturen und Eigenschaften werden fur mogliche Anwendungen in der supramolekularen Chemie und den Materialwissenschaften intensiv erforscht. In diesem Aufsatz betrachten wir neuere Beispiele fur die Synthese von Makrocyclen durch Kreuzkupplungen (Sonogashira: Arylacetylen-Makrocyclen, Glaser: Aryldiacetylen-Makrocyclen) und Methoden der dynamischen kovalenten Chemie. Ein Nachteil der Kupplungsmethoden ist die kinetisch kontrollierte Produktverteilung, da ein erheblicher Anteil der Oligomere uber die erwunschte Cyclengrose hinauswachst (“Overshooting”). Bessere Ergebnisse wurden in jungster Zeit mithilfe der dynamischen kovalenten Strategien auf der Grundlage reversibler Metathesereaktionen erzielt, die formtreue Makrocyclen in nur einem Reaktionsschritt liefern. Mechanistische Untersuchungen belegen, dass diese Form der Makrocyclenbildung ein thermodynamisch kontrollierter Prozess ist. Verbleibende praparative Probleme betreffen die Synthese von spezifisch funktionalisierten Strukturen sowie groseren und komplexeren zweidimensionalen und dreidimensionalen Molekulen.
Lethal effects of five molt inhibitors fed to the western spruce budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis Freeman) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and the Douglas‐fir tussock moth (Orgyia pseudotsugata [McDonnough]) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)1

Five insect molt inhibitors (MI's) were mixed with artificial diet and fed to 3rd and 6th stage western spruce budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis) larvae and 2nd stage Douglas-fir tussock moth (Orgyia pseudotsugata) larvae. In general, tussock moth larvae were more susceptible than western spruce budworm larvae to these MI's. SIR 6874 was by far the most toxic to 3rd and 6th stage western spruce budworm, and diflubenzuron the least toxic. TH 75331 and EL-494 both showed substantial activity against this insect, while SIR 8514 was relatively less active but was still at least 3 times as toxic as diflubenzuron. Except for EL-494, there were no large differences in toxicity of these compounds to 2nd stage tussock moth larvae; EL-494 was 30–90 times less toxic than the others at the LC50. The other four MI's caused at least 50% mortality of 2nd stage tussock moth which were fed a diet containing less than 0.1 ppm of the MI's. Zusammenfassung Uber letale Wirkungen von funf an Choristoneura occidentalis Free. (Lep.: Tortricidae) und Orgyia pseudotsugata (McDonn.) (Lep.: Lymantriidae) verfutterten Hautungshemmstoffen TH 75331 und SIR 6874 zeigten eine sehr gute Wirkung auf beide Insektschadlinge. Auch SIR 8514 wirkte gut. Diflubenzuron zeigte sich als bester auf Orgyia pseudotsugata wirkender Chitinsynthesehemmer, war aber bei Choristoneura occidentalis weniger wirksam. Umgekehrt wirkte EL-494 ziemlich stark auf C. occidentalis, war aber bei O. pseudotsugata eines der schwachsten Praparate. TH 75331, der dem Diflubenzuron ahnlichste Chitinsynthesehemmer, zeigte sich wirksamer auf O. pseudotsugata als jener SIR 6874 war der starkste Hemmstoff bei C. occidentalis. Unsere Versuche bestatigten die Spezifitat aller 5 Praparate. Diflubenzuron ist im Begriff, in den USA registriert zu werden. Es ist sehr wirksam gegen O. pseudotsugata, aber nicht anzuwenden gegen C. occidentalis (Gillette et al. 1977; Granett et al. 1980). Unsere Versuche zeigten, das gewisse Chitinsynthesehemmer-Praparate wirksamer als Diflubenzuron gegen C. occidentalis sind. SIR 6874 benotigt vor dem Erscheinen auf dem Handelsmarkt weitere Untersuchungen mit C. occidentalis. Die Untersuchungen weisen nachdrucklich darauf hin, das man nie die toxikologischen Eigenschaften verwandter Praparate gegen verschiedene Insektenarten innerhalb derselben Ordnung verallgemeinern soll.
Ba/Ca variations in the modern intertidal bean clam Donax gouldii: An upwelling proxy?

Abstract The discovery and calibration of high resolution paleoceanographic proxies is necessary to extend historic climate records and to understand regional climate variability. Chemical variations of skeletal remains have emerged as an often reliable recorder of environmental conditions. Specifically, Ba/Ca ratios have been correlated to temperature, salinity, seawater Ba/Ca, and phytoplankton biomass, although, many of these relationships appear taxon- and location-specific. To assess the sub-weekly Ba/Ca variations in the intertidal shallow-burrowing bivalve Donax gouldii, specimens were collected from the Southern California Bight, skeletal growth increments were cross-dated based on tidal-driven growth patterns, and skeletal aragonite Ba/Ca was determined using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Cross-dated growth among specimens revealed a simultaneous, large, and transient Ba/Ca peak in all shells. The timing of peak Ba/Ca was compared to a suite of locally measured physical and biological data, including temperature, salinity, density, nitrate, silicate, chlorophyll, diatom abundance, dinoflagellate abundance, and phytoplankton community composition. Based on cross-dated chronologies, Ba/Cashell is significantly correlated with Chl a from six and nine days prior and nutrients (nitrate, phosphate, silicate, and nitrite) from three days prior. In this system diatom abundance was not related to Ba/Cashell. Transiently higher seawater Ba/Ca resulting from upwelling may be reflected in peak Ba/Cashell, however the exact mechanisms leading to population wide Ba/Ca peaks remains enigmatic.
Are there exploitable inefficiencies in the futures market for oil

If the crude oil futures market is not efficient in the Fama sense, profitable trading opportunities may exist. This paper uses an artificial neural network model with moving average crossover inputs to predict price in the crude oil futures market. The predictions of price are used to construct buy and sell signals for traders. Compared to those of benchmark models, cumulative returns, year-to-year returns, returns over a market cycle, and Sharpe ratios all favor the ANN model by a large factor. The significant profitability of the ANN model casts doubt on the efficiency of the oil futures market.
Serum lipid profiles among patients initiating ritonavir-boosted atazanavir versus efavirenz-based regimens.

Background Antiretrovirals used to treat HIV-infected patients have the potential to adversely affect serum lipid profiles and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease which is an emerging concern among HIV-infected patients. Since boosted atazanavir and efavirenz are both considered preferred antiretrovirals a head to head comparison of their effects on serum lipids is needed.
Angiotensin-(1-7) augments bradykinin-induced vasodilation by competing with ACE and releasing nitric oxide

Recent studies have shown that angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] interacts with kinins and augments bradykinin (BK)-induced vasodilator responses by an unknown mechanism. In this study, we evaluated whether the potentiation of the BK-induced vasodilation by Ang-(1-7) may be attributable to inhibition of BK metabolism, release of nitric oxide, or both. Isometric tension was measured in intact canine coronary artery rings suspended in organ chambers. 125I-[Tyr0]-BK metabolism was determined in vascular rings by assessing the degradation of the peptide by high-performance liquid chromatography. Ang-(1-7) augmented the vasodilation induced by BK in a concentration-dependent manner in rings preconstricted with the thromboxane analog U46619. The EC50 of BK (2.45 +/- 0.51 nmol/L versus 0.37 +/- 0.08 nmol/L) was shifted leftward by 6.6-fold in the presence of 2 mumol/L concentration of Ang-(1-7). The response was specific for BK. since Ang-(1-7) did not augment the vasodilation induced by either acetylcholine (0.05 mumol/L) or sodium nitroprusside (0.1 mumol/L). Moreover, neither angiotensin I nor angiotensin II (Ang II) duplicated the augmented BK response of Ang-(1-7). Pretreatment of vascular rings with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, N omega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NA; 100 mumol/L) completely abolished the effects of Ang-(1-7) on BK-induced vasodilation whereas pretreatment with indomethacin (10 mumol/L) was without effect. The potent specific BK B2 receptor antagonist, Hoe 140. nearly abolished the BK and the Ang-(1-7) potentiated responses at 2 mumol/L, whereas at a lower concentration (20 nmol/L) Hoe 140 shifted the response curve to the right for both Ang-(1-7) and vehicle; however, the augmented response to Ang-(1-7) persisted. Preincubation of vascular rings with 20 mumol/L of the AT1 (CV11974), AT2 (PD123319), or nonselective (Sar1 Thr8-Ang II) receptor antagonists had no significant effect on the Ang-(1-7)-enhanced vasodilator response to BK. Lisinopril (2 mumol/L) significantly enhanced the BK-induced vasodilator response while at the same time it abolished the synergistic action of Ang-(1-7) on BK. In addition, pretreatment with 2 mumol/L Ang-(1-7) significantly inhibited the degradation of 125I-[Tyr0]-BK and the appearance of the BK-(1-7) and BK-(1-5) metabolites in coronary vascular rings. Ang-(1-7) inhibited purified canine angiotensin converting enzyme activity with an IC50 of 0.65 mumol/L. In conclusion. Ang-(1-7) acts as a local synergistic modulator of kinin-induced vasodilation by inhibiting angiotensin converting enzyme and releasing nitric oxide.
Reduction of Vibrations in Ball Screw Driven Machine Tools by the Optimal Selection of Nut Parameters

Due to the growing need for sustainable manufacturing processes, machine tool designers are constantly looking for ways to reduce unwanted structural vibrations without having to increase the mass/inertia of moving components, which in turn increases the energy consumption and cost of the machines. Recent research has shown that, due to the coupling introduced by the nut, the torque applied to ball screw drives by the motor causes undesirable lateral (bending) vibrations of the screw, which adversely affects the fatigue life and positioning accuracy of ball screw drives. By analyzing the stiffness matrix connecting the screw to the nut, this paper shows that the helix angle of the screw and the entry/exit angles of the balls have the most influence on the degree of coupling between motor torque and lateral vibrations of the screw. Consequently, by carefully selecting the helix angle of the screw together with the entry/exit angles of the balls, the undesirable lateral vibrations of the screw can be minimized, without having to increase the diameter (i.e. stiffness/inertia) of the ball screw. The merits and limitations of the proposed method are demonstrated using simulations on a single-axis ball screw driven machine.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Extended-Release Metoprolol Succinate in Chronic Heart Failure

OBJECTIVE:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and tolerability of extended-release (ER) metoprolol succinate and its role in the management of chronic heart failure.DATA SOURCES:A MEDLINE search of English-language literature (1990–October 2002) was conducted using congestive heart failure and metoprolol CR/XL or metoprolol CR/ZOK as search terms to identify pertinent studies.STUDY SELECTION/DATA EXTRACTION:All of the articles identified from the data sources were evaluated, with priority given to randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.DATA SYNTHESIS:ER metoprolol succinate is a controlled-release tablet designed to produce even and consistent β1-blockade throughout the 24-hour dosing interval, with less fluctuation in metoprolol plasma concentrations compared with immediate-release metoprolol. Three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials have evaluated the efficacy of ER metoprolol succinate in the treatment of patients with chronic heart failure. The MERIT-...