cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrating technical competency into the surgical curriculum: doing more with less.

The surgical residency training system in the United States is arguably among the best in the world. Judging by the huge number of applications from foreign medical students, obtaining a position in a US surgery residency program is an enviable accomplishment. Perhaps the best attestation to the quality of US surgical training is its finished product: graduates are armed with the knowledge base, judgment, and technical expertise to face a wide range of challenging medical problems. The board certification process ensures that surgeons have amassed sufficient knowledge to practice their art safely, and this knowledge base is re-evaluated every 10 years. An ongoing accreditation process ensures that individual programs remain effective. By all accounts, the surgery residency system is working well, and tools have long been in place to detect and correct problems. Despite the high quality of the US surgery residency training process, surgery programs are being forced to change the way that residents are taught. Duty hour limitations, requirements for increased resident supervision, and decreased reimbursement have challenged the ability to train residents in the traditional model. Novel training paradigms have been proposed in surgical subspecialties. The net result is a reduction in the number of chief residents in general surgery, creating voids in longstanding service commitments of individual programs and reducing supervision of junior trainees. A number of changes in the way we train residents will be necessary to meet these challenges. Duty hour limitations have forced individual programs to develop innovative call schedules to meet educational and service needs, with a resulting negative impact on continuity of patient care [1]. Some hospitals have hired midlevel service providers to
Water quality associated with survival of submersed aquatic vegetation along an estuarine gradient

The decline of submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) in tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay has been associated with increasing anthropogenic inputs, and restoration of the bay remains a major goal of the present multi-state “Bay Cleanup” effort. In order to determine SAV response to water quality, we quantified the water column parameters associated with success of transplants and natural regrowth over a three-year period along an estuarine gradient in the Choptank River, a major tributary on the eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay. The improvement in water quality due to low precipitation and low nonpoint source loadings during 1985–1988 provided a natural experiment in which SAV was able to persist upstream where it had not been for almost a decade. Mean water quality parameters were examined during the growing season (May–October) at 14 sites spanning the estuarine gradient and arrayed to show correspondence with the occurrence of SAV. Regrowth of SAV in the Choptank is associated with mean dissolved inorganic nitrogen <10 μM; mean dissolved phosphate <0.35 μM; mean suspended sediment <20 mg l−1; mean chlorophylla in the water column <15 μg l−1; and mean light attenuation coefficient (Kd) <2 m−1. These values correspond well with those derived in other parts of the Chesapeake, particularly in the lower bay, and may provide managers with values that can be used as target concentrations for nutrient reduction strategies where SAV is an issue.
Molecular Metal Clusters as Catalysts

Abstract In earlier analyses [1–8] we have established a correlation between metal clusters and metal surfaces with chemisorbed molecules in the specific contexts of (1) the metal frameworks wherein the metal cluster core structures are fragments of cubic and hexagonal close packed or body centered cubic metal bulk structures; (2) ligand stereochemistry where the geometric features of ligands bound to clusters and to metal surfaces are similar; (3) thermodynamic features where the average bond energies for ligand-metal and metal-metal bonds are comparable, for a specific metal, in the metal cluster and the metal surface regime; and (4) mobility of ligands bonded to metal cluster frameworks and to metal surfaces. Nevertheless, there are sharp distinctions between surfaces and clusters. The average coordination numbers for metal-metal interactions and for metal-ligand interactions are distinctly different for clusters and for surfaces: generally, the former are larger for surfaces and the latter are larger ...
393 THE EFFECT OF NALTREXONE ON APNEA OF PREMATURITY & SERUM B-ENDORPHIN LEVELS

Naltrexone is a long-acting analogue of Naloxone with 17x greater opiate antagonist activity. (Time to peak, post i.v. admin. = 1-2h.T1/2=10h in adults). Animal studies, and one study in prematures, suggest that opioid antagonists reverse apnea of prematurity via antagonism of B-endorphins (B-ED). Our study infants weighed < 1,700 gms (Gest. age (GA) 28-35 wks) & had significant apnea. (Min. 10/day. Duration 15 sec and/or HR < 100/min and/or cyanosis). 5 infants had not received methyl-xanthines (Group A). 11 infants were receiving methylxanthines (Gr. B). EKG, chest wall movement, nasal airflow, TcPO2 & TcPCO2 were monitored for 4-6h pre-Naltrexone. Naltrexone 1-3 mgm/k was given i.v. & monitoring continued for 4-6h. Samples for B-ED assay were taken prior to & Ih post-Naltrexone, & also from 10 control infants weighing <1,700 gms, without apnea or other significant pathology (GA 28-35 wks). RESULTS: No drug side-effects were detected. Gr. A- No infant showed an improvement in apnea post-Naltrexone. Gr. B- 5 recordings were unsatisfactory. 3 infants showed no change & 3 infants showed more severe apnea post-Naltrexone. No significant difference was found in serum B-endorphin levels before & after Naltrexone. B-endorphin levels were significantly higher (p < .001) in infants with apnea of prematurity than in control infants. B-endorphin levels did not change with increasing gestational or postnatal age.
Advanced load-testing techniques for a science archive

Performance goals for data archive systems need to be established early in the design process to ensure stability and acceptable response throughput. Load testing is one technique used to measure the progress towards these performance goals. Providing resources for load-test planning is critical, and this planning must include feasibility studies, tool analyses, and generation of an overall load-test strategy. This strategy is much different for science data archives than other systems, including commercial websites and high-volume data centers. This paper will provide an overview of the load testing performed on the Spitzer Space Telescope's science archive, which is part of Science Operations System at the Spitzer Science Center (SSC). Methods used for planning and conducting SSC load tests will be presented, and advanced load-testing techniques will be provided to address runtime issues and enhance verification results. This work was performed at the California Institute of Technology under contract to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
The AAPM/RSNA physics tutorial for residents. Introduction to emission CT.

The article explores the fundamentals of emission computed tomography (CT) from a nonmathematical approach. Tomographic images reveal the internal distributions of radioactivity in three-dimensional objects, and thus allows anatomic localization and improves contrast. Tomography requires a stable distribution of radionuclides, uniform detector response, an accurate center of rotation, and a complete set of projections. In emission CT, a large number of measurements, called projections, are collected at various angles about the patient during the examination. This information is organized by the angles of acquisition into a stack, called a sinogram. Each projection is modified by applying a reconstruction filter (eg, ramp or windowed reconstruction filters). These modified projections are backprojected to form the transverse tomographic images. The quality of tomographic images generated from filtered backprojection depends on the underlying assumptions about the projections. Typical artifacts that result ...
Phase coded optics for computational imaging systems

Computational imaging technology can modify the acquisition process to capture extra information at the sensor that can be used for various photographic applications, including imaging with extended depth of field, refocusing photographs after the image is taken or depth extraction for 3D applications. In this paper, we propose a generalized phase coded imaging which involves encoding of the captured light and post-capture decoding for improved features and performance. Phase coded optics utilizes optics to purposely encode specific object information in a more efficient way, which is the most flexible and cost effective solution for correcting optical aberrations or any other optical functions. Practically any shape can be generated on any lens surface for shaping the point spread function of the lens module to achieve desired image results. Phase coded optics is a more general scheme than previous proposed for finding the optimal solutions in digital imaging systems and has proven to be an enabling technology to the imaging problem. Some of the possible applications based on this technique are also investigated in this paper.
Assessment of immunity

Abstract An approach to the assessment of the immune system primarily from the vantage point of the general physician is presented, indicating the clinical situations where analysis is most likely to yield informative results. Preliminary screening by the primary physician is discussed, followed by a brief description of measures which are employed in referral centers. A definitive diagnosis should be possible in nearly all cases. With the rapid advances in recombinant DNA technology and bone marrow transplantation, a cure can be expected for most patients. particularly if the diagnosis is made early.
Rater Evaluations for Psychiatric Instruments and Cultural Differences: The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale in China and the United States

This article compares Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) data from Chinese and American inpatients with chronic schizophrenia to show how differences in item ratings may reflect cultural attitudes of raters. The Chinese sample (N = 504) came from Beijing Huilongguan Hospital. The American sample came from 268 PANSS assessments of Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness subjects hospitalized for 15 days or more to optimize equivalence of the samples. When controlling for age and sex, the Chinese sample scored significantly lower for total score by 25% (p < 0.0001), for the positive subscale by 35% (p < 0.0001), and on the general subscale by 32% (p < 0.0001) but not significantly different on the negative subscale score (+0.26%; p = 0.76). However, the Chinese sample scored 26% higher on the item on poor rapport (p < 0.0001), 10.2% higher on passive social withdrawal (p = 0.003), and most notably 46% higher on the item on lack of judgment and insight (p < 0.0001). These results remain broadly consistent across sex subgroup analyses. Differences seem to be best explained by both cultural differences in patient clinical presentations and varying American and Chinese cultural values affecting rater judgment.
Key determinants of real estate service quality among renters and buyers

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to compare quality perceptions of virtual servicescapes and physical service encounters among buyers and renters of real estate.Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative data from a sample of 27 professionals engaged in higher education in the USA are gathered by recorded interview before being transcribed and imported into MAXQDA 2007 software for analytical coding.Findings – Particular differences are found to exist between renters and buyers with regard to specific service attributes – for example, description of properties and type of visuals during the pre‐purchase stage, knowledge/experience and honest behavior of realtors during the service encounter stage and a continuous relationship with the realtor in the post‐encounter stage.Research limitations/implications – Generalization of the results is limited because the study utilizes data from only one industry (real estate) and from only one demographic segment (professionals in higher education).Practical impl...
Diagnostic Subgroups of Depression in Adolescents with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

One hundred and eighty-five adolescent inpatients with emotional and behavioral disorders completed two self-report measures of depression, the Children's Depression Inventory and the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire, and a structured diagnostic interview of depression, the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (Module C). Measures of depression were entered into a cluster analysis to determine subgroups of depressive symptom patterns. A five-cluster solution was obtained, with clusters characterized as (a) Nondepressed, (b) Endogenous Depression, (c) Depressed Mood with Subclinical Features, (d) Depressed Mood with Clinical Features, and (e) Negative Cognitions. The consistency of these findings with clusters previously obtained in child, adolescent, and adult samples suggested a continuity of depressive presentations in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Endogenous depression appears to be a robust subgroup of depression that is evident across the lifespan. A second subgroup of depression, chara...
The Scottish tradition in pulpit rhetoric

The Scottish tradition in pulpit rhetoric is characterized by a national habit of emphasis that stresses the kerygmatic view of preaching, a vigorous style and delivery, and a balance between “authority” and “relevance.” These emphases may be seen in the history of the Scottish pulpit as well as in contemporary homiletic theory.
A facility for precise temperature control applications in microgravity

The general design, main components, and operation of the isothermal dendritic growth apparatus (IDGA) designed for microgravity experimentation are described. The four major subsystems of the IDGA are a temperature controlled thermostatic bath capable of milli-kelvin stability, a photographic data collection system, a crystal growth chamber, and a growth detection system to initiate data collection. Some of the specific experiments that could utilize the capabilities of the IDGA are dendritic growth in alloys, monotectic systems, life science experiments, and technological applications.
Proposed partial β-structures for lac permease and the Na + /H + antiporter which use similar transport and H + coupling mechanisms

Most antiporters, symporters, and transporters have been represented as containing ten to 14 transmembrane helices, primarily on the basis of hydropathy plots. However, multihelix systems provide no obvious mechanism of transport and no simple way of distinguishing substrates. The models of lac permease and the Na + /H + antiporter presented here postulate that β-structures are involved in the transport of substrate, and in following this postulate arrive at readily understandable mechanisms for transport and for substrate specificity. The percentage of β-structures necessary for these models is low enough that it is not in conflict with prior physical evidence for secondary structures. Immunological data also cannot rule these β-structure mechanisms invalid. In lac permease the new model is obtained by formal representation of the C-terminal amino acids 243–405 as β-strands. This formal representation nets two interchangeable β-barrels which provide a simple mechanism for sugar transport. The alternating barrel system may comprise as little as 1/5 the entire permease. In one configuration the barrel forms a pocket with hydrogen bonding residues oriented to the outside of the cell. In the other configuration the barrel forms an analogous pocket oriented towards the inside. Six particular amino acids participate in the substrate hydrogen bonding schemes of both forms, providing a mechanism to shuttle lactose from the outside to the inside or vice versa. A trigger for change of forms which could couple the β-barrel to H + -transport is easily devised, and it involves the apparently critical Hi22-Glu325 charge relay system. The Na + /H + antiporter can be organized similarly with an interchanging β-barrel-β-clamshell structure attached to 7-transmembrane helices. Charged amino acid sidechains form the basis of an ionic shuttle which is analogous to the lactose shuttle. In this case, too, coupling of Na + transport to H + transport may be accomplished by a histidine-glutamate charge relay system.
Routine Computing Tasks: Planning as Understanding

A system called NETWORK is described which implements the construction-integration model of Kintsch (1988) in a routine computing-task domain. This system builds a plan of action on-line for a given task from a set of plan elements. These plan elements are simple overlearned production rules that are put together by NETWORK to produce plans for novel tasks. This approach is contrasted with other types of planners as NETWORK is shown to plan solutions to a variety of tasks. Discussions focussing on the use of long-term memory, case-based reasoning, and planning and acting are presented. NETWORK takes as input a task description, uses this information to select related knowledge from its long-term memory, and constructs a network representation of the task. This network is then integrated through a spreading-activation procedure where irrelevant items in the network become deactivated, and things that appear related sustain each other's higher activation. Subsequently, a decision process chooses a plan element for firing, depending upon its level of activation with those more highly activated being considered for action first. When a plan element is found that can fire, its outcomes are added to the state of the world. The process repeats until a selection of plan elements is produced to complete the task.
Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells as in vitro models of human neurogenetic disorders

The recent discovery of genomic reprogramming of human somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells offers an innovative and relevant approach to the study of human genetic and neurogenetic diseases. By reprogramming somatic cells from patient samples, cell lines can be isolated that self-renew indefinitely and have the potential to develop into multiple different tissue lineages. Additionally, the rapid progress of research on human embryonic stem cells has led to the development of sophisticated in vitro differentiation protocols that closely mimic mammalian development. In particular, there have been significant advances in differentiating human pluripotent stem cells into defined neuronal types. Here, we summarize the experimental approaches employed in the rapidly evolving area of somatic cell reprogramming and the methodologies for differentiating human pluripotent cells into neurons. We also discuss how the availability of patient-specific fibroblasts offers a unique opportunity for studying and modeling the effects of specific gene defects on human neuronal development in vitro and for testing small molecules or other potential therapies for the relevant neurogenetic disorders.
Work function of cesium-covered polycrystalline beryllium

The dependence of the work function on Cs coverage of clean polycrystalline Be has been measured. The maximum shift obtainable is 2.3 eV. Photoemission and thick Cs overlayer measurements indicate that the minimum work function surface is at 1.6 eV. This new measurement is one of many showing that cesium covered metals and semiconductors are observed to have a minimum work function close to 1.6 eV. In general the minimum work function value is observed to be weakly dependent on the substrate. The work function is determined by the polarization of the Cs overlayer with the increase of electronic charge in the Cs-substrate interface.
Renormalization Group Approach to Field Theory at Finite Temperature

Scalar field theory at finite temperature is investigated via an improved renormalization group prescription which provides an effective resummation over all possible nonoverlapping higher loop graphs. Explicit analyses for the \ensuremath{\lambda}${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\varphi}}}^{4}$ theory are performed in d=4 Euclidean space for both low and high temperature limits. We generate a set of coupled equations for the mass parameter and the coupling constant from the renormalization group flow equation. Dimensional reduction and symmetry restoration are also explored with our improved approach.
A search for long-term periodicities in large earthquakes of southern and coastal central California

It has been occasionally suggested that large earthquakes may follow the 8.85-year and 18.6-year lunar-solar tidal cycles and possibly the approximately 11-year solar activity cycle. From a new study of earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 5.5 in southern and coastal central California during the years 1855-1983, it is concluded that, at least in this selected area of the world, no statistically significant long-term periodicities in earthquake frequency occur. The sample size used is about twice that used in comparable earlier studies of this region, which concentrated on large earthquakes.
Real world modelling through high resolution digital 3D imaging of objects and structures

Abstract This paper summarises the results achieved from a number of laser scanning experiments performed in our laboratories and on remote sites. The potential of this technology for imaging applications and as an input to virtualised reality environments is discussed. Parameters to be considered for this type of activity are related to the design of laser scanners with adequate depth of field, image resolution, shape reproduction fidelity, registered colour information, robustness to ambient light interference and scanning strategies. The first case reviewed is an application geared towards improving access to art collections belonging to museums. A number of digital 3D models acquired in Italy in 1997–1998 are presented, e.g. marble statue from G. Pisano (circa 1305). The second case aims at digitising large structures. Examples of a large sculpture located outside of the Canadian Museum of Civilisation in Hull, Canada and the Orbiter Docking System (ODS) located at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, are presented.
Quantitative Analysis in the Fourier Domain - The Optimum Vectors

Multicomponent analysis of optical spectra can be optimized by processing the spectral data in the Fourier domain. The transform makes it possible to take maximum advantage of the informational content of the spectra while reducing the data storage requirements and processing time. The transformed spectra are stored and processed as vectors. We have explored methods for selecting the "best" set of vector representations. During this investigation, we found that any number of chemical interferences can be accounted for in the vector representations without knowing the types of concentrations of these components. The methodology greatly expands the capabilities of multicomponent analyses as will be demonstrated on both infrared and uv-visible spectra.
Piloting a physical activity centred education programme for adults with a brain injury

AbstractPrimary objective: To pilot test a physical activity centred education (PACE) programme for adults with a brain injury.Research design: Purposive sampling was utilized from a convenience sample of nine adults with a brain injury (five female; four male).Methods and procedures: The sample completed an 8-week health promotion programme focused on improving physical activity behaviours. Participants completed measures of self-efficacy, stage of change and rehabilitation outcomes pre- and post-programme. Descriptive analysis, effect sizes (ES) and percentage change in variables were assessed.Main outcomes and results: Results indicated improved rehabilitation outcomes as participants decreased from moderate to mild limitation (ES = 1.67). Furthermore, participants reported increased self-efficacy (ES = 0.41) and intention to be active.Conclusions and implications: Specialists are challenged to find modes of rehabilitation that improve the health of individuals with a brain injury. Pilot results from t...
Identification of genes modulated in rheumatoid arthritis using complementary DNA microarray analysis of lymphoblastoid B cell lines from disease‐discordant monozygotic twins

Objective. To identify disease-specific gene expression profiles in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), using complementary DNA (cDNA) microarray analyses on lymphoblastoid B cell lines (LCLs) derived from RA-discordant monozygotic (MZ) twins. Methods. The cDNA was prepared from LCLs derived from the peripheral blood of 11 pairs of RAdiscordant MZ twins. The RA twin cDNA was labeled with cy5 fluorescent dye, and the cDNA of the healthy co-twin was labeled with cy3. To determine relative expression profiles, cDNA from each twin pair was combined and hybridized on 20,000-element microarray chips. Immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the expression of selected gene products in synovial tissue from patients with RA compared with patients with osteoarthritis and normal healthy controls. Results. In RA twin LCLs compared with healthy co-twin LCLs, 1,163 transcripts were significantly differentially expressed. Of these, 747 were overexpressed and 416 were underexpressed. Gene ontology analysis revealed many genes known to play a role in apoptosis, angiogenesis, proteolysis, and signaling. The 3 most significantly overexpressed genes were laeverin (a novel enzyme with sequence homology to CD13), 11hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (a steroid pathway enzyme), and cysteine-rich, angiogenic inducer 61 (a known angiogenic factor). The products of these genes, heretofore uncharacterized in RA, were all abundantly expressed in RA synovial tissues. Conclusion. Microarray cDNA analysis of peripheral blood–derived LCLs from well-controlled patient populations is a useful tool to detect RA-relevant genes and could help in identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Fundamental Limits of Spatial Resolution in PET.

Abstract The fundamental limits of spatial resolution in positron emission tomography (PET) have been understood for many years. The physical size of the detector element usually plays the dominant role in determining resolution, but the combined contributions from acollinearity, positron range, penetration into the detector ring, and decoding errors in the detector modules often combine to be of similar size. In addition, the sampling geometry and statistical noise further degrade the effective resolution. This paper quantitatively describes these effects, discusses potential methods for reducing the magnitude of these effects, and computes the ultimately achievable spatial resolution for clinical and pre-clinical PET cameras.
Risk, determinants, and outcome implications of progression of mitral regurgitation after diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse in a single community.

To analyze the evolution of mitral regurgitation (MR) after the diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse in community patients, 285 residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse without severe MR were studied. MR grade was assessed at diagnosis and at follow-up 1,663 ± 1,079 days later using Doppler echocardiography. The progression of MR was defined as an increase of ≥1 MR grade. The patients’ mean age was 56 ± 22 years, 57% were women, and the mean ejection fraction was 60 ± 9%. Between diagnostic and follow-up echocardiography, 108 patients showed progression of MR, 39 of whom had progression ≥1 grade. The mean overall MR grade increased from 0.4 ± 0.7 to 0.9 ± 1.1 (p
Coal Desulfurization and Deashing by Oil Agglomeration

Abstract Coal organic matter was separated from its associated mineral matter by reducing the material to a fine-size, suspending the particles in water, selectively agglomerating with oil the particles which were largely organic, and screening the suspension to recover the agglomerates. Since particles of iron pyrites tended to be agglomerated with the coal, various means of preventing the agglomeration of pyrite were investigated. In some cases pyrite agglomeration was prevented by suspending the particles in an alkaline solution. In other cases it was prevented by pretreating the particles with a warm alkaline suspension through which air was bubbled to oxidize the surface of the pyrite. However, when this method of pretreatment was applied to several Pennsylvania coals, a considerable part of the pyritic sulfur was extracted through dissolution. An unexpected discovery revealed by scanning electron microscopy was the unusual stability of the coal microagglomerates which remained after the oil was extr...
Seismic behaviour of steel fibre reinforced concrete piles

This paper provides test data on seismic behaviour of SFRC piles. Four large-scale specimens are subjected to a combination of constant axial load and alternating cyclic flexure. A similar number of specimens are subjected to alternating cyclic flexure without axial load.
Low-energy electron-collision processes in molecular chlorine.

The results of close-coupling calculations using the complex Kohn variational method are reported for a variety of low-energy electron-collision processes involving molecular chlorine. We report cross sections for elastic scattering and momentum transfer, as well as dissociative excitation of the five lowest electronically excited states ([sup 1,3][Pi][sub [ital u]], [sup 1,3][Pi][sub [ital g]], [sup 3][Sigma][sub [ital u]][sup +]) which are formed by promoting an occupied valence electron into an antibonding (5[sigma][sub [ital u]]) orbital. We also report cross sections for the excitation of the lowest bound optically allowed states in Cl[sub 2]. The cross sections, especially at very low energies, are found to depend sensitively on both target polarization and a proper balance of correlation effects in the [ital N]- and ([ital N]+1)-electron systems. Comparison is made between the results of this study and the limited body of experimental results available for this system.
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS) regulates the expression of inducible NOS in rat small intestine via modulation of nuclear factor kappa B

We previously reported that neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) is the predominant NOS in the intestine. Inducible NOS (iNOS), an enzyme involved in the inflammatory response, is regulated by cytokines via the transcriptional factor NF-kappaB. We examined a new mechanism of intestinal iNOS regulation with respect to the role of nNOS and its effect on NF-kappaB. Young Sprague-Dawley rats were treated for 4 days with 1) saline, 2) 7-nitroindazole (7-NI, specific nNOS inhibitor), 3) 7-NI + pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC, NF-kappaB inhibitor), or 4) PDTC. Intestinal iNOS mRNA, NF-kappaB activity, and the tissue content of the regulatory IkappaBalpha were examined. We found that 7-NI-treated animals had higher intestinal NF-kappaB (p50-p65) activity, lower IkappaBalpha content, and increased intestinal iNOS mRNA, iNOS protein, and iNOS activity compared with controls. All of these changes were abolished when PDTC was given together with 7-NI. PDTC alone had no effect. 7-NI induces a delayed increase in intestinal myeloperoxidase activity (after elevation in NF-kappaB and iNOS), which could be abrogated by PDTC. We conclude that in normal rat small intestine, nNOS suppresses the gene expression of iNOS through NF-kappaB down-regulation and that nNOS suppression leads to IkappaBalpha degradation, NF-kappaB activation, and iNOS expression.
An AMBER study of Gellman's amides

A new version of the AMBER molecular mechanics force field which was modified to reproduce ab initio data on small peptides is tested against recent experimental data on the conformational properties of simple di- and triamides (1–7) in methylene chloride.
Polymers confined to a wedge

On considere une solution de polymeres confinee dans un coin a petit angle d'ouverture α dont les parois repoussent les polymeres. Les polymeres sont exclus de la zone pres du sommet
Continuum Breakdown Parameter Based on Entropy Generation Rates

The dimensionless ratio of the mean free path to a reference length scale typically quantifies the extent to which the continuum assumption in fluid flow dynamics breaks down. However, ambiguity exists in the choice of an appropriate length scale and some researchers have suggested a local parameter, like the Knudsen number, for quantifying continuum breakdown. The authors review a few selected parameters and suggest a continuum breakdown parameter based on local entropy production rates. The selected parameter was chosen by observing and comparing alternatives and abstracting common elements and results. Results presented include laminar boundary flow and one–dimensional shock wave structure. Although both cases are well within the continuum description, they provide an ideal setting for comparison since both have semi–analytical solutions.
Killer defects caused by localized sub-100-nm critical dimension reticle errors

For obvious cost reasons, semiconductor manufacturers are constantly striving to produce ever smaller wafer geometries with the current installed base of wafer steppers. Many techniques (phase shifting, optical proximity correction, etc.) have been used successfully to 'squeeze' more resolution from these steppers than was once thought possible. Wafers processed using non-aggressive k 1 factors provided a linear correlation between mask and wafer feature sizes. However, it has been shown that pushing k 1 factors to very low levels causes a nonlinear response between changes in photomask and wafer critical dimension. This non-linearity demands extremely tight photomask CD control specifications. Total CD errors 50 nm and smaller can cause unacceptable wafer CD variation. Current high end reticle manufacturers are capable of meeting a total CD uniformity specification of approximately 40 nm as measured by sampling strategies using optical metrology tools. These tools are very useful for detecting macro changes in CD; however, they will only detect a localized error if it happens to occur precisely at the point of measurement. In contrast, a pattern inspection system employing a linewidth measurement algorithm can ensure detection of all localized errors within the detection and review capability of the system. The problem with reticle CD error detection capability is that there is a large discrepancy between currently available detection of greater than or equal to 150 nm and required detection of less than or equal to 50 nm necessary for proper wafer functionality at low k 1 lithography. In this paper, defect sensitivity and false detection performance of a new advanced line measurement algorithm was tested. The test vehicles included both an industry standard and a custom designed programmed defect test mask. In addition, production masks with naturally occurring localized CD errors that caused wafer pattern bridging were analyzed. This new experimental algorithm has shown localized CD error detection of less than or equal to 100 nm reticle defects.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTS OF REFLECTION AND CONTEMPLATION ACTIVITIES ON SERVICE-LEARNERS’ COGNITIVE & AFFECTIVE MINDFULNESS

This study investigates the extent to which service-learners’ mindfulness is affected by engagement in reflection (e.g., dialogue) and contemplation activities (e.g., labyrinth tracing). The results are compared within and between treatment groups, while covarying for participants’ initial levels of mindfulness. While both dialogue and contemplative labyrinth treatment groups reported increases in mindfulness as measured by CAMS-R, neither within or between group overtime-changes were significant. Contemplative labyrinth tracing as a reflection activity does not appear to be better than dialogue at increasing mindfulness in service-learners. However, contemplative reflection performed as well as traditional dialogue reflection.
P‐219: Color Stability of White Light‐Emitting Organic Electroluminescent Device Base on Three Phosphorescent Emission Peaks

Color stability of white organic light emitting diodes (WOLEDs) was developed by three emission peaks. The blue phosphorescent sensitizer was Bis(3,5-difluoro-2-(2-pyridyl)phenyl-(2-carboxypyridyl) iridium (Firpic), the orange phosphorescent sensitizer was the thieno-pyridine framework organo-iridium complexes (PO-01), and the red phosphorescent sensitizer was the phenyl-qoinazoline framework organo-iridium complexes (PR-01). An orange/red phosphorescent emitting layer was sandwiched between blue phosphorescent emitting layers. The devices exhibited no change of EL spectra according to the driving voltage. The efficiency of WOLED of 11.6lm/W (17.4Cd/A) at 1000 Cd/m2, a CIE coordinates of (0.43, 0.44), and a CRI of 81. It is good suitability to use in OLED lighting.
Energetic implications of vessel growth and flow changes over time in Fontan patients.

Background As patients with a single-ventricle physiology age, long-term complications inherent to this population become more evident. Previous studies have focused on correlating anatomic and hemodynamic performance, but there is little information of how these variables change with time. Vessel growth and flow rate changes were quantified using cardiac magnetic resonance and their effects on hemodynamics were assessed, which could affect the long-term outcome. Methods Forty-eight patients with a lateral tunnel or extracardiac conduit Fontan who underwent two cardiac magnetic resonance scans (average interval, 5.1 ± 2.3 years) were studied. Total cavopulmonary connection anatomic and flow variables were reconstructed and normalized to body surface area 1/2 . Total cavopulmonary connection hemodynamic efficiency (indexed power loss) was obtained through computational fluid dynamic modeling. Results Absolute vessel diameters increased with time, normalized diameters decreased, and vessel mean flow rates remained unchanged. Indexed power loss changed significantly in the cohort, as well as in patients in whom the minimum normalized left pulmonary artery decreased. Age at first scan and connection type (lateral tunnel or extracardiac conduit) were not associated with changes in indexed power loss. Conclusions We present the largest serial cardiac magnetic resonance Fontan cohort to date. Although flow rates increased proportionally to body surface area, vessel diameters did not match somatic growth. As a result, energy losses increased significantly with time in the cohort analyzed.
Integrin heterodimer and receptor complexity in avian and mammalian cells

We report data showing that the integrin receptor complex in chickens contains several discrete heterodimers all sharing the beta 1-integrin subunit combined separately with different alpha-subunits. Using antisera to synthetic peptides based on cDNA sequences of chicken and human alpha-integrin subunits to analyze the integrin complement of avian and mammalian cells, we show that band 2 of the chicken integrin complex contains alpha-subunits related to both alpha 3- and alpha 5-subunits of human integrins. alpha 3 beta 1 and alpha 5 beta 1 have both previously been shown in human cells to be fibronectin receptors and alpha 3 beta 1 can also act as a receptor for laminin and collagen. We also provide evidence for the presence, in band 1 of the chicken integrin complex, of a third integrin alpha-subunit which is also alpha 5 related. This integrin subunit exists in a separate heterodimer complex with beta 1 and binds to fibronectin-affinity columns. These results provide explanations for published data showing that the avian integrin complex contains receptor activity for a variety of extracellular matrix proteins. We conclude that the chicken integrin complex comprises a set of beta 1-integrin heterodimers equivalent to the human VLA antigens and includes at least two fibronectin receptors. Finally, we show that chicken embryo fibroblasts also contain a beta 3-class integrin related to the RGD receptors defined in various human cells.
Service-Learning in a One-Year Alternative Route to Teacher Certification: A Powerful Multicultural Teaching Tool

This five-year study examined the effectiveness of an innovative approach to service-learning embedded in a one year site-based alternative route to teacher certification. The ten-week school-based study investigated the influence of service-learning on the multicultural perceptions, cross-cultural communication skills, and social justice cognizance of future teachers. The study participants consisted of 73 secondary pre-service teacher candidates. Data sources included: participant reflective journals, debriefings and final reports, letters from and discussions with host school service recipients, and investigator interviews and field notes. Study results indicate that service-learning within the time constraints of a one-year alternative route to teacher certification can provide future teachers with insight into the politics of education, increase their interactive proficiency with culturally diverse students, teachers and administrators, raise their level of multicultural consciousness, and augment th...
On the rank minimization problem

After a brief overview of the problem of finding the extremal (minimum or maximum) rank positive semidefinite matrix subject to matrix inequalities, we identify a few new classes of such problems that can be efficiently solved. We then proceed to present an algorithm for solving the general class of rank minimization problems.
Brief Communication P53 Accumulation in N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea-Induced Rat Mammary Tumors

P53 aberrant protein expression and mutation is a component of many human tumors but less information is available regarding involvement in relevant animal models. We have examined invasive mammary epithelial neoplasms for p53 aberrant protein expression from Sprague-Dawley rats induced by two intrajugular injections of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU, 50 mg/kg), 7 days apart, beginning at 44-49 days of age. Positive nuclear staining was observed in 8/10 mammary tumor frozen sections using PAb 421, a mouse monoclonal antibody, compared to a mixed mouse IgG negative control antibody. Paraffin sections from two additional sets of similarly induced rat mammary tumors also showed positive nuclear staining (22/37 tumors) with CM-5, a rabbit polyclonal antibody. Our results indicate that elevated cellular content of p53 is a common event in invasive palpable mammary tumors induced by NMU in this dual-injection model system.
The Representation of Guayaquil's Sexual Past: Historicizing the Enchaquirados

The article assesses the role played by the enchaquirados in the historical reconstruction of Guayaquil's sexual past. In this regard, the alternative reading of this pre-Hispanic homosexual harem of boys questions the city's traditionally heterosexist history; however, rather than simply blaming official historiography and pretending to offer some new historical truth, the present contribution looks to interrogate the inherent problematics of historical hermeneutics. Through this critical evaluation of the enchaquirados legacy, I offer some needed insight into the nature of historical production in Ecuador and into the pervasive limitations of all historical production in post-colonial contexts, particularly Latin American ones. In this manner, the article looks to place the production of Guayaquil's past and its reigning masculinity discourse) in an ever changing discourse in which elements of colonial relationships, race, and regional geography play a vitally determining factor, and are constantly re-determined themselves in the process.
Cluster Subtypes within the Preparation Stage of Change for Sun Protection Behavior

Objective: Numerous effective tailored interventions for smoking cessation and other behaviors have been developed based on the Transtheoretical Model. Recent studies have identified clusters within each stage of change. The goal of this study is to determine if replicable clusters exist within the Preparation stage of change for sun protection. Method: Secondary data analysis of baseline data from a sample of participants in a home-based expert system intervention was performed. Two random samples of approximately 128 participants were selected from subjects in the Preparation stage (N = 258). Cluster analyses were performed using Ward's Method on the standardised scores from the three scales of Pros, Cons, and Self-Efficacy. Interpretability of the pattern, pseudo F test, and dendograms were used to determine the number of clusters. Results: A four-cluster solution replicated across subsamples. Differences between clusters on eight of the nine Processes of Change, and on behavioral measures, were found. Discussion: The cluster solutions were robust, easily interpretable, and demonstrated good initial external validity. They replicated patterns found for other behaviors that have demonstrated long-term predictability and can provide the basis for a tailored intervention.
A memoryless channel coding methodology for infinite-memory queuing timing channels

The exponential server timing channel - the simplest queuing timing channel - is non-stationary and has infinite memory. Thus, developing error-correcting codes for such channels is challenging. Previously, Coleman and Kiyavash developed a class of coding techniques that are reliable in limited scenarios, but have undesirable complexity-performance tradeoffs. This paper utilizes a recent result by Coleman on developing an achievability theorem based upon how the channel is memoryless conditioned upon intermediate queue states. In this paper, we use this property, along with the fact that the distribution of a Poisson process conditioned upon the number of counts at time T is a uniform distribution on the unordered time epochs on [0,T]. Our approach uses a sparse graph coding technique over finite fields of large alphabets. Unlike the previous coding scheme, all intermediate messages of the decoder are of a fixed alphabet and the graphical representation is equivalent to a sparse graph for decoding on memoryless channels. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.
Active background modeling: Actors on a stage

Over the last two decades, background modeling techniques have focused on representing the general appearance of a background that is assumed to be predominantly static. However, there are many situations in which there are active, moving elements that are effectively part of the background. Examples include tools in manipulative tasks or work settings where a small, fixed set of people are moving about. Such situations are not well modeled by traditional methods. In this paper, we present a background modeling approach, Actors on a Stage (AOS), that is able to accommodate both passive and active backgrounds. AOS is presented as a general, recursive estimation scheme for a background model. In this model, actors are a latent variable that is used to explain both occlusion of, and abrupt changes to, a background model. We demonstrate AOS in two different situations: a person writing on a blackboard, and a microretinal membrane peel. Additionally, we show how our method performs compared to traditional techniques in these settings, and on standard image sequences.