cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrating Specialty-Specific Clinical Anatomy Education into the Post-Clerkship Curriculum

Anatomy is a foundational science mainstay of undergraduate medical school education, particularly in the pre-clerkship curriculum. During the post-clerkship curriculum, students closer to graduate medical education may benefit from a focused concentration on human anatomy related to their specific clinical interests. Here, we describe a course for post-clerkship students that uniquely incorporates a multimodal approach of dissection, didactics, and clinical correlation to radiologic imaging, with the opportunity to personalize student learning on a specialty-specific anatomic region. The course increased students’ confidence of anatomical knowledge and its clinical relevance. Other institutions may benefit from establishing a similar multimodal integrated post-clerkship anatomy curriculum.
Millimeter/sub-mm spectroscopy of the CrBr radical in the high spin X6Σ+ state.

The millimeter/submillimeter spectrum of the CrBr radical has been recorded in the frequency range of 220–300 GHz using direct absorption techniques, utilizing a new instrumental design. This study is the first spectroscopic investigation of this radical species by any method. CrBr was synthesized in a DC discharge by the reaction of chromium vapor, produced in a Broida-type oven, with Br2CH2 in argon. Six to nine rotational transitions were measured for four isotopologues of this molecule in their natural abundances, 52Cr79Br, 52Cr81Br, 53Cr79Br, and 53Cr81Br. Each transition was found to consist of six distinct fine structure components, indicating a 6Σ+ ground electronic state, as observed for CrF and CrCl. Lines originating in the v = 1 and 2 vibrational states were recorded for 52Cr79Br and 52Cr81Br as well. The spectra were analyzed using a Hund’s case (b) Hamiltonian, and rotational, spin-spin, and spin-rotation parameters were determined. The third-order spin-rotation constant γs and the fourth order spin-spin term θ were necessary for the analysis; these parameters are thought to play a role in states with high multiplicities. Equilibrium parameters were also derived for the CrBr; a bond length of re = 2.337 282 (30) A and a vibrational constant of ωe ≅ 300 cm−1 were determined. The sign and magnitude of the spin-spin and spin-rotation constants suggest the presence of nearby 4Π and 6Π excited states in CrBr, lying ∼9000 cm−1 above the ground state. The new instrument design, employing more compact, free-space optics utilizing an offset ellipsoidal mirror, facilitated these measurements.The millimeter/submillimeter spectrum of the CrBr radical has been recorded in the frequency range of 220–300 GHz using direct absorption techniques, utilizing a new instrumental design. This study is the first spectroscopic investigation of this radical species by any method. CrBr was synthesized in a DC discharge by the reaction of chromium vapor, produced in a Broida-type oven, with Br2CH2 in argon. Six to nine rotational transitions were measured for four isotopologues of this molecule in their natural abundances, 52Cr79Br, 52Cr81Br, 53Cr79Br, and 53Cr81Br. Each transition was found to consist of six distinct fine structure components, indicating a 6Σ+ ground electronic state, as observed for CrF and CrCl. Lines originating in the v = 1 and 2 vibrational states were recorded for 52Cr79Br and 52Cr81Br as well. The spectra were analyzed using a Hund’s case (b) Hamiltonian, and rotational, spin-spin, and spin-rotation parameters were determined. The third-order spin-rotation constant γs and the fourth or...
Towards scalable and reliable deep learning based phase microscopy using intensity-only measurements (Conference Presentation)

I will discuss our recent efforts in building deep learning based phase imaging techniques that provide improved scalability and reliability. I will demonstrate a physics guided deep learning imaging approach that enables designing highly efficient multiplexed data acquisition schemes and fully leverages the powerful deep learning-based inverse problem framework. We apply this approach to large space-bandwidth product phase microscopy and intensity diffraction tomography, all implemented on a simple LED-array based computational microscopy platform. I will discuss an uncertainty quantification framework to assess the reliability of the deep learning predictions. Quantifying the uncertainty provides per-pixel evaluation of the prediction’s confidence level as well as the quality of the model and dataset.
Noninvasive strategies for colorectal cancer screening: opportunities and limitations.

Purpose of review In the United States, only 67% of patients are up to date with colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. While colonoscopy is highly sensitive and specific for CRC and precursor lesion detection and removal, it is invasive, expensive and resource heavy. Hence, there is an unfulfilled need for multiple modality CRC screening that can improve current CRC screening rates and may be resource effective strategies when used in conjunction with a colonoscopy program. Our review highlights the complementary, often underutilized, noninvasive CRC screening methods with a focus on performance, risks, benefits, and recent updates. Recent findings Studies demonstrate that fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is superior to guaiac-based fecal occult blood tests for CRC screening. Studies show superiority of multitarget stool DNA test to FIT in sensitivity, though with concern for decreased specificity in setting of one-time tests. Technical advances continue to improve accuracy of colon capsule endoscopy. There are ongoing studies to characterize often difficult-to-detect high-risk lesions in computed tomography colonography. Septin 9 continues to have suboptimal accuracy for CRC screening, but has been shown to be associated with more advanced, invasive CRC stages. Summary There are ongoing advances in noninvasive screening modalities for CRC; these should be considered as alternatives to colonoscopy in specific patient populations.
Effect of Different Strengthening Techniques on the Structural Behaviour of Continuous Two-Way Slabs with Partially Corroded Reinforcement at Internal Support

This research studies the combined effects of partial corrosion of the negative reinforcement in two-way continuous slabs (two spans) with a construction joint at the internal support and investigates the efficiency of the proposed strengthening methods to overcome these effects. The partial corrosion in reinforcement comes from exposure to the corrosive outdoor environment due to an unplanned stoppage in concrete pouring for a long-time which left part of the negative reinforcement without protection. The construction joint formed at the internal support after resume the concrete pouring later. Three types of strengthening are proposed to overcome those effects. The study adopted an accelerated corrosion technique which is running an electrical current in the steel bars partially immersed in a 5% salt solution (elect-chemical cell). The proposed strengthening was: NSM CFRP bars, CFRP strips, and steel plates. All applied to the top face in the tension zone at the internal support. Six two-way continuous (two spans) concrete slabs were cast (2200, 1000, and 100 mm). The strengthening was: four strips of CFRP had 50 mm width, four of 6 mm CFRP bars applied using the NSM technique, and four steel plate 50 mm width and 5 mm thickness. All the strengthening extended to the third of span length and was aligned with the slab continuity axis. The specimens were tested and the deflection, first positive and negative crack width, and failure mode were recorded. Numerical analysis and comparison with the experimental results were conducted to verify the numerical model. The study found that the construction joint and corrosion had a clear influence on the structural behavior of the slab. Those effects were on the ultimate load, deflection, and the negative cracks. The proposed treatments were highly effective and efficient in increasing the ultimate load, delay the appearance of cracks, and reduction of deflection under the load points.
A Primer on Natural and Juridical Persons in Louisiana

This Article is the first in a series of primers on Louisiana Family Law. The Louisiana Civil Code of 1870, as amended to date, operates as the primary source of law, with other ancillary statutes and codes on particular subject matters. The law of personality begins Book I of the Civil Code in pure civilian tradition—the orderly introduction into being as either a natural or juridical person. As unique as its heritage, Louisiana’s laws on personality outline what some may view as elementary, but necessarily form the foundation of personhood from which all rights and duties follow.
Low-Latency Communication over Fast Ethernet

Fast Ethernet (100Base-TX) can provide a low-cost alternative to more esoteric network technologies for high-performance cluster computing. We use a network architecture based on the U-Net approach to implement low-latency and high-bandwidth communication over Fast Ethernet, with performance rivaling (and in some cases exceeding) that of 155 Mbps ATM. U-Net provides protected, user-level access to the network interface and enables application-level round-trip latencies of less than 60μs over Fast Ethernet.
Effects of temperature, time, and toxin concentration on lesion formation by the Escherichia coli hemolysin.

We performed osmotic protection experiments to test the hypothesis that the Escherichia coli hemolysin forms a discrete-size pore in erythrocyte membranes. The effects of toxin concentration, assay time, temperature, and protectant concentrations were examined. The results we present here raise doubts about the existing model of pore formation by hemolysin. We demonstrate that osmotic protection by various sugars of different sizes is a function of hemolysin concentration and assay time. The data indicate that under various conditions, lesion sizes with a diameter ranging from 1.2 nm can be inferred. Quantification of hemolysin permitted the estimation of the number of HlyA structural protein molecules required per erythrocyte for lysis in the presence of each protectant. It appears that hemolysin induces heterogeneous erythrocyte lesions which increase in size over time. Influx experiments utilizing radioactive sugar markers indicated that time-dependent osmotic protection patterns are independent of the diffusion rates of individual protectants. We demonstrate that the rate of the putative growth in the size of hemolysin-mediated lesions is temperature dependent. The erythrocyte membrane lesions formed at 37 degrees C can be stabilized in size when shifted to 4 degrees C. On the basis of these data, new models for the nature of the hemolysin-mediated erythrocyte membrane lesions are presented.
Optimal Treatment of Unresectable Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers

Unlike in other types of cancer, in metastatic nonmelanoma, there are few dedicated oncologists to care for patients with unresectable skin cancers and little reliable clinical evidence to craft a therapeutic strategy. In his presentation at the NCCN 19th Annual Conference, Dr. Thomas Olencki offered a glimpse of some of the therapeutic regimens tried in the past for these rare skin cancers and briefly reviewed some of the more promising agents for advanced squamous cell, basal cell, and Merkel cell carcinomas, although the current evidence base is limited.
VERTICAL DISTRIBUTION OF EXTRACTABLE IRON AND ALUMINIUM IN SOIL PROFILES FROM A BROWN EARTH‐PEATY PODZOL ASSOCIATION

Summary Fe and Al extractable by 3 per cent oxalic acid and by 0.1M potassium pyrophosphate at pH 10 have been determined in horizon samples of two soil profiles of each of three subgroups (Brown Earth, Brown Podzolic Soil, and Peaty Podzol) developed in North Wales on parent materials derived from Silurian shales. The vertical distribution of Fe and Al together with the relationship between pyrophosphate-extractable (‘fresh’ hydrous oxides) and oxalic-extract-able Fe or Al (‘fresh’+‘aged’ hydrous oxides) can assist classification and interpretation of the course of podzolization in these soils. If podzolization is defined as sesquioxide transport, then its degree of development in the soils studied differs according to whether Al or Fe are used as the index element. The evidence supports continued recognition of soils of Brown Podzolic type as an intergrade subgroup.
Actual Dose Variation of Parotid Glands and Spinal Cord for Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients During Radiotherapy

Purpose For intensity-modulated radiotherapy of nasopharyngeal cancer, accurate dose delivery is crucial to the success of treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the significance of daily image-guided patient setup corrections and to quantify the parotid gland volume and dose variations for nasopharyngeal cancer patients using helical tomotherapy megavoltage computed tomography (CT). Methods and Materials Five nasopharyngeal cancer patients who underwent helical tomotherapy were selected retrospectively. Each patient had received 70 Gy in 35 fractions. Daily megavoltage CT scans were registered with the planning CT images to correct the patient setup errors. Contours of the spinal cord and parotid glands were drawn on the megavoltage CT images at fixed treatment intervals. The actual doses delivered to the critical structures were calculated using the helical tomotherapy Planned Adaptive application. Results The maximal dose to the spinal cord showed a significant increase and greater variation without daily setup corrections. The significant decrease in the parotid gland volume led to a greater median dose in the later phase of treatment. The average parotid gland volume had decreased from 20.5 to 13.2 cm 3 by the end of treatment. On average, the median dose to the parotid glands was 83 cGy and 145 cGy for the first and the last treatment fractions, respectively. Conclusions Daily image-guided setup corrections can eliminate significant dose variations to critical structures. Constant monitoring of patient anatomic changes and selective replanning should be used during radiotherapy to avoid critical structure complications.
Mimetic discretization of two-dimensional magnetic diffusion equations

Abstract In case of non-constant resistivity, cylindrical coordinates, and highly distorted polygonal meshes, a consistent discretization of the magnetic diffusion equations requires new discretization tools based on a discrete vector and tensor calculus. We developed a new discretization method using the mimetic finite difference framework. It is second-order accurate on arbitrary polygonal meshes and a consistent calculation of the Joule heating is intrinsic within it. The second-order convergence rates in L 2 and L 1 norms were verified with numerical experiments.
Utilizing bio-char as a bio-modifier for asphalt cement: A sustainable application of bio-fuel by-product

Abstract The recent endeavor toward a bio-based economy in the U.S. leads to more attention to converting organic matters into bio-fuels. Efforts have been made to look for practical applications for bio-char, a carbonaceous by-product from converting plant matters to bio-fuels through pyrolysis. Bio-char is considered to be able to use as an asphalt binder modifier due to its carbon nature and morphology. In this study, bio-char derived from switchgrass through different types of pyrolysis were tested as bio-modifier for asphalt binder. A commercially activated carbon was utilized for comparison. All the carbonaceous additives were incorporated into one commonly used asphalt binder at different concentrations in order to obtain the optimal content. The samples were tested in the laboratory for their rheological characteristics, rutting and fatigue performance and ductility properties. Highest treatment temperature (HTT), pyrolysis method, particle size of bio-modifier and modifier content were investigated to achieve the optimal modification effect. It was found that bio-char was capable of reducing the temperature susceptibility and significantly increasing the rutting resistance of the asphalt binder. The addition of the bio-char showed little effect on the fatigue and cracking resistance, with the best fatigue and cracking resistance found on the bio-char with finer particles (−75 μm) produced at lower HTT (400 °C) and lower heating rate (15 °C/min). Based on the testing results, bio-char appears to be a more effective binder modifier than commercially activated carbon within addition of 10 wt.%.
Positron emission tomography and the changing paradigm in coronary artery disease.

While lowering cholesterol with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors appears to affect little if at all the severity of coronary artery stenoses, at least over the time periods studied, it markedly reduces cardiac morbidity and mortality. The beneficial effects of these agents have therefore been attributed to plaque stabilization and improved coronary vasomotor function. This then has shifted the emphasis of detection and treatment of coronary artery disease from the assessment of structural to functional alterations. With PET based measurements of regional myocardial blood flow, the function of the coronary circulation in humans can now be evaluated non-invasively. Multiple studies with this approach reported diminished hyperemic flow responses in patients without hemodynamically significant coronary stenoses but with coronary risk factors. Furthermore, lipid lowering with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors was consistently found to enhance hyperemic flow responses to pharmacologic vasodilation as an index of the integrated function of the human coronary circulation. Recent studies with PET based measurements of blood flow target specifically the endothelial dependent coronary vasomotion and revealed abnormalities in chronic smokers and in postmenopausal women, that is, after estrogen withdrawal. Conversely, L-arginine supplementation in smokers and hormone replacement therapy in post-menopausal women without coronary risk factors normalized endothelial dependent flow responses. These observations suggest that endothelial dysfunction as a pivotal event early in the development of coronary atherosclerosis can be identified noninvasively with PET which will also be useful for measuring responses to lifestyle modification and pharmacologic treatment for improving coronary circulatory function.
The Origin and Arrhythmogenic Potential of Fibroblasts in Cardiac Disease

Fibroblasts play a major role in normal cardiac physiology and in the response of the heart to injury and disease. Cardiac electrophysiological research has primarily focused on the mechanisms of remodeling that accompany cardiac disease with an emphasis on myocyte electrophysiology. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the potential role of fibroblasts in cardiac electrophysiology. This review focuses on the arrhythmia mechanisms involving interactions between myocytes and fibroblasts. We also discuss the available evidence supporting the contribution of intracardiac and extracardiac sources to the fibroblast and myofibroblast populations in diseased hearts.
General relativistic approach to the poincaré compensating stresses for the classical point electron

Solutions are obtained for the Poincare compensating energy-stress tensor for the classical point electron. The tensor, denoted byCνμ, may be chosen to cancel not only the divergent self-stress integral but the divergent Coulomb self-energy as well. The mass of the compensated electron may be provided for by superimposing the energy-stress tensor of a point mass (obtained recently as a source for the Schwarzschild field). The primary role played by general relativity in solving this problem is to provide a fundamental assumption as to the structure ofCνμ, in particular, for the static, spherically symmetric system of the point charge, we assume energy density equals radial stress. This condition leads to an absence of gravitational self-energy and self-stress and an isomorphism between general relativity and special relativity for the tensors and equations needed to solve the Coulomb self-stress and self-energy problems. The condition also leads to a linearity of Einstein’s field equations for the problem, which greatly simplifies the analysis. The compensated model of the electron would support an inertial origin of charge rather than an electromagnetic origin of mass.
Nephrectomy Induced Chronic Renal Insufficiency is Associated With Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Death and Death From Any Cause in Patients With Localized cT1b Renal Masses

Purpose: Radical nephrectomy has traditionally been preferred to partial nephrectomy in patients with localized renal cell cancer because of its simplicity and established cancer control. Recent data suggest that these patients have significant competing risks of death, some of which may be increased by chronic renal insufficiency. Therefore, we compared overall survival, cancer specific survival and cardiac specific survival in patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy for cT1b tumors.Materials and Methods: From 1999 to 2006, 1,004 patients with renal masses between 4 and 7 cm underwent extirpative surgery, partial nephrectomy (524) or radical nephrectomy (480). We generated a propensity model based on preoperative patient characteristics, and then modeled survival with the additional variables of pathological stage and new baseline renal function.Results: On multivariate analysis cancer specific survival was equivalent for patients treated with partial nephrectomy or radical nephrectomy. Those ...
The Jenkins activity survey and the CPI‐revised: Further evidence of adaptive and maladaptive type a traits

This study investigated the relationship with college students (N = 142) between Type A characteristics, as measured by the Jenkins Activity Survey (JAS), and the personality traits measured by the revised California Psychological Inventory (CPI). Significant differences between As and Bs were found on 18 of the 23 CPI traits. Overall, results suggested that the JAS Competitiveness subscale measured adaptive, while the Type A and Speed and Impatience subscales measured maladaptive, characteristics. Furthermore, the thematic deficit associated with the maladaptive Type A characteristics was a lowered sense of integration. Recent explanations of Type A behavior, including those that focus on anger and cognitive appraisals, have not considered this possible lack of integration as a maladaptive aspect of the Type A pattern.
Preparation of CuxS thin films by activated reactive evaporation technique

Thin films of cuprous sulphide (Cu2S) have been deposited for the first time by a novel Activated Reactive Evaporation (ARE) technique. These films have been deposited as a function of various deposition conditions such as partial pressure of hydrogen sulphide gas, substrate temperature and copper evaporation rate. The microstructure of the films have been characterized by optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and electron diffraction. Electrical and optical characterization has also been carried out. Films deposited using, a H2S partial pressure in the range from 10−2 to 8 × 10−4Torr. a substrate temperature at or near room temperature and a copper evaporation rate of about 200 A/min, were found to consist of pure chalcocite (Cu2S). Electrical and optical measurements of the pure Cu2S films indicated that these films were p-type with carrier concentrations of 1–7 × 1020/cm3 and typical mobility values of 1–3 cm2/V s. Mobilities as high as 8 cm2/v s were measured on some samples. The optical determination of the band gap gave a value of Eg ≈ 1.2 eV. Preliminary investigation of the Cu2S/CdS heterojunctions were also carried out usin ARE deposited Cu2S films on CdS films prepared by direct evaporation.
Control of spatial orientation and lifetime of scroll rings in excitable media.

Excitable media, which range from autocatalytic chemical systems1–3 to biological cells and tissues4–7, can maintain organized structures in the form of rotating spiral waves of excitation8–11. The dynamics of spiral waves in two-dimensional systems have been shown to be susceptible to control by external fields (such as electric, thermal and optical)12–14. In three dimensions, the analogues of spiral waves are scroll waves9,15,16. Here we show that an external field—a temperature gradient—can be used to control a particular class of scroll waves called scroll rings. The gradient allows scroll rings to be precisely oriented in space, and their spontaneous shrinkage to be accelerated, decelerated or even reversed (so that the ring expands). The temperature gradient also influences the lifetimes of the scroll rings. We suggest that these dynamics are likely to be generic to other types of field gradients and other excitable media.
Hydrogen bonding and solvent structure in an antigen-antibody interface. Crystal structures and thermodynamic characterization of three Fv mutants complexed with lysozyme.

Using site-directed mutagenesis, X-ray crystallography, and titration calorimetry, we have examined the structural and thermodynamic consequences of removing specific hydrogen bonds in an antigen−antibody interface. Crystal structures of three antibody FvD1.3 mutants, VLTyr50Ser (VLY50S), VHTyr32Ala (VHY32A), and VHTyr101Phe (VHY101F), bound to hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) have been determined at resolutions ranging from 1.85 to 2.10 A. In the wild-type (WT) FvD1.3−HEL complex, the hydroxyl groups of VLTyr50, VHTyr32, and VHTyr101 each form at least one hydrogen bond with the lysozyme antigen. Thermodynamic parameters for antibody−antigen association have been measured using isothermal titration calorimetry, giving equilibrium binding constants Kb (M-1) of 2.6 × 107 (VLY50S), 7.0 × 107 (VHY32A), and 4.0 × 106 (VHY101F). For the WT complex, Kb is 2.7 × 108 M-1; thus, the affinities of the mutant Fv fragments for HEL are 10-, 4-, and 70-fold lower than that of the original antibody, respectively. In all thr...
Teaching laparoscopy: a pilot regional program in North Carolina.

Abstract In response to demand for laparoscopic sterilization, a teaching program was developed at North Carolina Memorial Hospital in 1971. The program consisted of three phases: instrument drill with a plastic model, a formal teaching session at a training center, and a demonstration session at the trainee's hospital. During the first year of operation, 21 practitioners were trained by this program, 12 active in North Carolina, and five other laparoscopy centers were developed throughout the state. The demographic effect that such a small program could be expected to have on a regional basis reveals that a drop in the birth rate of about 2 per thousand can eventually be attributed to elective interval sterilization when the full effects of such a program are in operation.
The role of NR4A transcription factors in memory formation

Abstract In various physiological contexts, Nr4a genes are transcribed in response to external stimuli as part of an immediate early response that initiates a cascade of gene expression ultimately leading to distinct physiological outcomes in each of these contexts. The signaling pathway that initiates Nr4a gene expression in most of these contexts consists of elevated intracellular cAMP activating PKA, which in turn leads to phosphorylation of CREB and new gene synthesis. This cAMP–PKA–CREB pathway is a central molecular pathway in the formation of a long-term memory. Indeed, learning induces Nr4a family gene expression, and long-term memory formation requires at least two waves of transcription after learning, suggesting that NR4A nuclear receptors may contribute to the second of these waves of gene expression. In this article, we review insights gained in other physiological contexts regarding Nr4a function and regulation, and highlight how these lessons can be applied to the study of memory formation.
Structural phase transitions and mechanical properties of binary ionic colloidal crystals at interfaces

Electrostatic interactions are essential to designing self-assembled structures with unique symmetries and mechanical properties. These interactions can be modified by varying the effective charge of the molecules via the alteration of medium conditions including pH, salt concentration, or dielectric constant variations. In many situations, correlated ionic crystals form at liquid–liquid interfaces, on membrane surfaces, or at solid interfaces that adsorb charged molecules when such medium conditions are modified. In this paper, we determine the structure and mechanical properties, such as the Young's Modulus and Poisson's ratio, of stoichiometric 1 : 1-ionic crystals on surfaces as a function of the medium dielectric constant, which is modified by changing the solvent conditions in both theoretical calculations and simulations. We find that, at large values of the dielectric constant, the fully-packed hexagonal lattice has the lowest energy, while at small values of the dielectric constant the square lattice is the most favorable energetically. For square lattices, the Young's modulus along the direction of like-like charge particles is smaller than that along the direction of like-unlike charges, while its value remains isotropic in hexagonal crystals.
High temperature nanofoams derived from rigid and semi-rigid polyimides

A means of generating high temperature polymer foams which leads to pore sizes in the nanometre regime has been developed. Foams were prepared by casting block copolymers comprising a thermally stable block and a thermally labile material, such that the morphology provides a matrix of the thermally stable material with the thermally labile material as the dispersed phase. Upon a thermal treatment the thermally unstable block undergoes thermolysis, leaving pores where the size and shape are dictated by the initial copolymer morphology. Multiblock and triblock copolymers, comprising rigid, semi-rigid and flexible polyimide matrices with either poly(propylene oxide) or poly(methyl methacrylate) as the thermally labile coblocks, were prepared. The copolymer synthesis was carried out through the poly(amic alkyl ester) precursor to the polyimide since this precursor is stable and allows for isolation and characterization prior to imidization. Microphase-separated morphologies were observed for all copolymers irrespective of block type or length by both dynamic mechanical and small-angle X-ray scattering techniques. Upon decomposition of the propylene oxide or methyl methacrylate coblock, reductions in the film thickness and the total integrated scattering were found for those copolymers derived from rigid and semi-rigid polyimide matrices, thus indicating a collapse of the foam as it was being formed. Conversely, copolymers based on the flexible polyimide produced stable foams upon decomposition of the labile coblocks.
The ethics code and neuropsychological assessment practices

Abstract The 1992 revision of the Ethics Code of the American Psychological Association is more detailed than its predecessor. Sections with direct relevance to neuropsychological assessment practice are discussed. Commentary and specific recommendations are provided regarding the issues of avoiding harm to the patient, competence of the practitioner, test validity, test interpretation, maintenance of records, use and supervision of nondoctoral personnel, forensic activities, release of raw data, documentation of results, multiple relationships, and fees. Clinicians are urged to adhere to the Ethics Code rather than to a personal standard of professional behavior.
The Impact of Neoliberalism on College Students

Neoliberalism has become the dominant socio-economic paradigm in the United States and as such has tremendous impact on all aspects of our lives. While there is increasing research on the impact of...
The role of calcineurin in lymphocyte activation.

Lymphokine gene transcription involves numerous signal transduction molecules and second messengers. The serine/threonine phosphatase calcineurin has been demonstrated to play a central role in the immediate, early activation of numerous lymphokines (such as interleukin [IL]-2) and in the regulation of cell surface receptors such as CD40L, CD95, and recently CD25 α (the α chain of the IL-2 receptor). In addition to lymphocyte activation, calcineurin functions include control of neuronal signaling, muscle contraction, muscle hypertrophy and cellular death. Therefore, calcineurin not only plays a vital role in the regulation of T lymphocyte function, but also functions in cellular environments outside the immune system.
The Distress Tolerance Scale: Development and Validation of a Self-Report Measure

This paper presents the development and validation of a self-report measure of emotional distress tolerance. The initial scale was developed in Study 1 (N = 642). The scale evinced expected relations with other measures of affective functioning, supporting its convergent and discriminant validity. Criterion validity was supported by significant negative associations with substance use coping but not enhancement motives. Study 2 (N = 823), extended the results of the initial factor analysis, indicating that the Distress Tolerance Scale (DTS) contains four first-order factors, which are indicators of a single second-order general distress tolerance factor. Study 2 indicated that the DTS was stable over a 6-month interval and the DTS was prospectively associated with alcohol problems among men. In both studies, males reported significantly higher levels of distress tolerance than women.
Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Outcomes With Neoadjuvant Cisplatin-Based Regimens for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer

Abstract Background The benefit of neoadjuvant methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin (Adriamycin), and cisplatin (MVAC) for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) has been prospectively demonstrated in a phase III study. Extrapolating from comparative data in the metastatic setting, platinum doublets such as cisplatin-gemcitabine (CG) have been adopted. We sought to compare clinical outcomes in patients treated for MIBC with neoadjuvant CG and MVAC at our institution. Patients and Methods Patients with MIBC were identified from a prospectively maintained registry. Clinicopathologic information and clinical outcome data were obtained directly from the registry. When available, pharmacy records were reviewed to ascertain the use of growth factors and chemotherapy dose intensity (DI). Survival was compared in subgroups divided by the regimen of chemotherapy rendered (ie, CG vs. MVAC) using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results Median overall survival (OS) in the overall cohort (N = 61) was 23 months. OS was improved in patients receiving either MVAC or CG chemotherapy compared with patients receiving “other” chemotherapy (35.3 vs. 16.3 months; P = .055). Although the median OS associated with neoadjuvant CG numerically exceeded the survival associated with neoadjuvant MVAC (104.3 and 21.8 months, respectively), this was not statistically significant ( P = .73). Pathologic downstaging predicted improved OS with both neoadjuvant CG and MVAC, and the rates of downstaging were similar with both regimens. Conclusions Although warranting prospective validation, our data suggest that CG is a possible alternative neoadjuvant approach to traditional regimens such as MVAC for patients with MIBC.
Neural pathways common to vestibular and optokinetic eye movements

To determine how vestibular and optokinetic eye movement signals share the central oculomotor neural organization, optokinetic afternystagmus was superposed on vestibular nystagmus in the monkey. To a first approximation there was algebraic additivity in the velocity domain. This result suggests that vestibular and optokinetic eye movements are integrated at a level of neural organization above the ocular motoneurons, at a level in which neural signals are coded in terms of eye movement velocity rather than eye position.
The Rule of Seven Revealed by Observing DNA Annealing in a Nanocontainer

Although the melting temperature (Tm) of DNA can be predicted with great accuracy, little is understood about the basic rates governing the helix-coil transitions between two strands of DNA. Here we adapt a porous vesicle encapsulation method with single-molecule fluorescence to measure these rates directly for a 9 bp DNA duplex (Tm=23°C) and characterize their variation with mismatched basepairs. A single basepair mismatch can cause up to three orders of magnitude variation in duplex stability. Surprisingly, we found that the rate of DNA annealing shows an abrupt 100 fold change depending on whether there are 7 or more contiguous bp or not (∼106 M−1 sec−1 vs. ∼104 M−1 sec−1). Similar results were obtained for a microRNA seed with 7 bp match to p53 and 6 bp match to LIN28 gene sequences. Our results suggest a phenomenological cooperativity of 7 basepairs during Watson-Crick sequence recognition, with fundamental implications in nucleic acid pairing processes such as microRNA targeting and silencing in posttranscriptional regulation, and have practical implications for DNA microarray applications.
On the generation of vacancies by moving dislocations

Abstract New experiments of Molenaar and Aarts, Blewitt and others seem to confirm the view of the author, previously based only on the experiments of Gyulai and Hartly and Stepanow on sodium chloride, that vacant lattice sites, and possibly interstitial atoms, are generated during plastic flow in ductile crystals, particularly in metals. It is pointed out that the average temperatures near a moving dislocation are probably not sufficiently high to evaporate vacant lattice sites or interstitial atoms as a result of thermal effects alone. Instead, one apparently must conclude that the imperfections are generated either by purely geometrical means during the looping of dislocations about appropriate obstacles, as the result of dynamical instability in the motion of a dislocation, possibly near a jog, or in the very high thermal pulses or ‘spikes’ which are generated either in the zone where two dislocations of opposite sign annihilate one another or near impediments where dislocations are strongly curved. I...
Somatomedin C: restoration in vivo of cycle traverse in G0/G1 blocked cells of hypophysectomized animals

DNA synthesis and mitosis in frog lens epithelium are abolished by hypophysectomy and restored by somatomedin C. Both growth hormone and triiodothyronine also restore lens cell proliferation in vivo but not in vitro. Somatomedin-like activity in frog serum is diminished by hypophysectomy and is restored by growth hormone and triiodothyronine.
Does the name of the sender affect industrial mail response

Abstract Recognizing the rapidly changing composition of the U.S. industrial workforce, this study addresses the challenging problem of obtaining a viable mail response rate from an industrial market sampling frame. Specifically, the effects of manipulating only the name of the sender is investigated. A total of 800 small- and medium-sized southwestern business firms with contact persons having domestic (i.e., American-Christian)-sounding names were randomly and equally allocated among four different senders, all belonging to a southwest state university. The survey questionnaire dealt with the effects of free-trade pacts on small- and medium-sized businesses. Results indicate that senders with American-Christian-sounding names generate a higher response rate than those with foreign-non-Christian-sounding names. The potential implications of these results to industrial marketers are discussed.
Education for Rural Development: a Discussion of Experiments in Botswana

Botswana, a country of some 648,000 people unevenly distributed over more than 600,000 square kilometres, is an extremely poor nation whose estimated income per capita is less than $100 per annum. It is land-locked and dependent upon transport routes through neighbouring South Africa and Rhodesia. Frequent droughts cause major losses in Botswana's cattle herds, whose meat provides the country with its major export earnings. According to the 1964 census, almost 228,000 of the 250,000 workers were in agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing, and a 1967–8 survey found only 28,148 in salaried employment. During 1967 an additional 22,735 Batswana were working in the mines of South Africa. Of the present number of jobs (estimated at 2,000) requiring the minimum educational standard of School Certificate, less than one-quarter are currently filled by Botswana citizens. In 1967 some 258 students – 55 per cent of those who sat for the examination – received the Junior Certificate (after three years of secondary education) and 66 students - 80 per cent of those who sat – received the Cambridge School Certificate (after five years of secondary education).
Perioperative Care of Children in a Transcultural Context

As part of a large, comparative study of how children are cared for in developed and developing countries' hospitals, health care professionals and parents were asked questions relating to their beliefs about parental presence during anesthesia induction and in postanesthesia care units. Children were not questioned. The researcher compared parents' (n = 957) and staff members' (n = 780) responses between developed and developing countries. Results indicate that parents and staff members in developed and developing countries responded significantly differently (P < .000001) to whether they believe parents or relatives should stay with their children until anesthesia takes effect. More staff members in developing countries responded that parents should be present (P = .007). Cultural constructions (e.g., class) are believed to influence strongly how care is delivered in developing countries studied. Cultural constructions were not as important in the developed countries.
Unnatural Translation Initiation

Protein translation in nature always begins with an initiator transfer RNA (tRNA) carrying the amino acid methionine. This was circumvented in vitro with a reconstituted translation system utilizing initiator tRNA synthetically mischarged with the other natural amino acids. In addition, it was determined that this system could accommodate these non-methionine amino acids containing various N-α-acyl groups, many of which are useful for post-translational modification such as peptide cyclization.
Flux of particulate metals between east coast North American rivers and the North atlantic ocean

Abstract The chemical composition of particles collected from 20 east coast North American rivers is similar in samples from rivers having similar watershed physiography. Estimates of gross trace metal flux from rivers draining five different watershed types (St. Lawrence, New England, Appalachian, Piedmont and Coastal Plain) indicate that watershed physiography is more important than watershed size. Of the metals studied, only Cd and Zn are enriched in particles beyond levels easily interpreted as natural. Estimates of net particulate trace metal fluxes from east coast North American rivers suggest that they are a minor contribution to North Atlantic deep sea clays.
Atypical Response of B-1 Cells to BCR Ligation: A Speculative Model.

Peritoneal B-1a cells manifest unusual signaling characteristics that distinguish them from splenic B-2 cells. These include the failure of BCR engagement to trigger NF-κB activation and DNA replication. Despite extensive study, a clear explanation for these characteristics has not emerged. Here we aim to develop a unified paradigm based on previous reports and recent results, which proposes a central role for phosphatase activity. We hypothesize B-1a cells are unable to induce NF-κB or proliferate after BCR cross-linking due to increased phosphatase abundance or activity. This phosphatase abundance and/or activity may be the result of unique B-1a cell characteristics such as increased levels of HSP70 and/or constitutive secretion of IL-10. We speculate that phosphatase activity cannot be overcome by BCR ligation alone due to insufficient Vav protein expression, which does not allow for proper production of ROS that inhibit phosphatases. Furthermore, constitutively active Lyn also plays a negative regulatory role in B-1a. We expect that a new focus on phosphatase activity and its suppression will be revealing for BCR signal transduction in B-1 cells.
Ultrastructural observation of possible nerve endings in rat sebaceous gland.

Neural elements within the parenchyma of the sebaceous gland have not been reported previously. Nerve endings have been observed only in the connective tissue surrounding the gland or in close association with the undifferentiated basal cells.
Electrochromic and chemochromic performance of mesoporous thin-film vanadium oxide

Abstract Mesoporous vanadium oxide thin films have been deposited electrochemically from a water/ethanol solution of vanadyl sulfate and a nonionic polymer surfactant. Aggregates of the polymer surfactant serve as templates that result in the formation of a mesoporous structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicate the presence of both macroporosity and mesoporosity in the electrodeposited film. Chemochromic behavior of mesoporous vanadium oxide is demonstrated in a palladium/vanadium oxide thin-film device, which colors when exposed to hydrogen gas. A comparison of results with evaporated vanadium oxide reveals that the mesoporous film displays an improved kinetic performance, which is most likely attributable to its highly porous structure. Also, the electrochemical properties have been explored in a lithium-battery configuration. Mesoporous vanadium oxide exhibits a very high lithium storage capacity and greatly enhanced charge–discharge rate. In situ optical measurements show that the film exhibits a multicolor electrochromic effect.
Dynamic Testing of Mechanical Properties of a Substrate Using Phase-Locked-Loop

This paper explores dynamically deriving the mechanical properties of a substrate. A method is presented in which a phase locked loop (PLL) is used to find the resonance frequency of a mechanical model consisting of an oscillating probe and a material substrate. This is done by first presenting an accurate PLL which is stable for nonlinear systems. The relationship between the system frequency and the stiffness of the material substrate is derived theoretically. The stiffness of the substrate is obtained by combining the theoretical result and the converging resonance frequency from PLL.Copyright © 2005 by ASME