cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Observed Trends and Needed Trends in Gifted Education

This chapter discusses observed trends in Gifted Education as well as trends that need to develop. Based on interviews with a number of leading researchers and thinkers in Gifted Education the following issues are believed to be significant in developing Gifted Education in the future: The increasing significance and application of neurological findings; enrichment particularly by means of Information Technology as well as by writing skills and communication. In addition, the increasing importance of creativity, mentoring, and counseling and the increasing use of the Internet are discussed. However, there are also trends that need to develop; trends that have been somewhat neglected in the past, namely a focus on educational efficiency and a greater focus on critical thinking and higher order thinking in General Education, but in Gifted Education in particular. In closing, legislation and genetics as future developments are commented upon.
Fight, flight, or negotiate: believable strategies for conversing under crisis

This paper describes a model of conversation strategies implemented in virtual humans designed to help people learn negotiation skills. We motivate and discuss these strategies and their use to allow a virtual human to engage in complex adversarial negotiation with a human trainee. Choice of strategy depends on both the personality of the agent and assessment of the likelihood that the negotiation can be beneficial. Execution of strategies can be performed by choosing specific dialogue behaviors such as whether and how to respond to a proposal. Current assessment of the value of the topic, the utility of the strategy, and affiliation toward the other conversants can be used to dynamically change strategies throughout the course of a conversation. Examples will be given from the SASO-ST project, in which a trainee learns to negotiate by interacting with virtual humans who employ these strategies.
Influence of Stochastic Events on the Phenotypic Variation of Common White Leg Markings in the Arabian Horse: Implications for Various Genetic Disorders in Humans

One method of assessing the influence of stochastic events on phenotypic variation is to study morphological differences in paired limbs of the same individual. These limbs have identical genotypes and similar intra-uterine environments and are analogous to monozygotic twins. Common white leg markings have a multifactorial mode of inheritance in the Arabian horse. Asymmetry occurs frequently for these markings. Using computerized registration records obtained from the Arabian Horse Registry of America, Inc., the types of markings were quantified in the left foreleg and left hind leg of bay and chestnut horses when a specific marking occurred in (1) a paired right leg, (2) both right legs, and (3) both right legs and the other left leg. The variation in the markings in the left legs of these horses is evidence of the role of stochastic events during development. The relatively high frequency of a specific type of asymmetry, with one leg being completely pigmented, is of special biological interest and has implications for various human disorders that are characterized by reduced penetrance and variable expressivity.
Prosocial growth during college: Results of a national study

Ethical growth and prosocial development are increasingly salient learning outcomes in higher education. Previous research has shown that the traditional college years facilitate moral development, especially with respect to moral reasoning. This research examined the impact of college experiences on students’ sense of active responsibility for others—prosocial orientation—via a longitudinal, multi-institutional design through the Spirituality and Higher Education project at University of California, Los Angeles. Data from over 14,000 undergraduates show that key college experiences predict growth on prosocial outcomes. Especially salient predictors include active forms of learning, engagement with diversity and other means by which students encounter multiple perspectives. Implications for higher education are discussed.
A study of inter-lab and inter-platform agreement of DNA microarray data

As gene expression profile data from DNA microarrays accumulate rapidly, there is a natural need to compare data across labs and platforms. Comparisons of microarray data can be quite challenging due to data complexity and variability. Different labs may adopt different technology platforms. One may ask about the degree of agreement we can expect from different labs and different platforms. To address this question, we conducted a study of inter-lab and inter-platform agreement of microarray data across three platforms and three labs. The statistical measures of consistency and agreement used in this paper are the Pearson correlation, intraclass correlation, kappa coefficients, and a measure of intra-transcript correlation. The three platforms used in the present paper were Affymetrix GeneChip, custom cDNA arrays, and custom oligo arrays. Using the within-platform variability as a benchmark, we found that these technology platforms exhibited an acceptable level of agreement, but the agreement between two technologies within the same lab was greater than that between two labs using the same technology. The consistency of replicates in each experiment varies from lab to lab. When there is high consistency among replicates, different technologies show good agreement within and across labs using the same RNA samples. On the other hand, the lab effect, especially when confounded with the RNA sample effect, plays a bigger role than the platform effect on data agreement.
Metastatic renal cell carcinoma neovasculature expresses prostate-specific membrane antigen.

Abstract Objectives. To determine whether the tumor-associated neovasculature of metastatic prostate and metastatic conventional (clear cell) renal carcinoma express prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). PSMA is a type II integral membrane glycoprotein highly expressed in prostate cancer cells and also recently discovered to be expressed in the neovasculature of non-prostatic primary malignancies. Methods. We examined metastatic prostate carcinoma (22 patients) and metastatic conventional (clear cell) renal carcinoma (20 patients) in various anatomic sites, including bone, lymph nodes, liver, lung, and soft tissue. Using the biotin-streptavidin method, we performed immunohistochemical reactions with the anti-PSMA monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) 7E11 and PM2J004.5 and with the anti-endothelial cell mAb CD34. Results. Metastatic conventional (clear cell) renal carcinoma consistently expressed PSMA. The PM2J004.5 mAb was positive in 20 of 20 specimens, and the 7E11 mAb was positive in 15 of 20. The anti-PSMA immunoreactions with the neovasculature were confirmed by similar staining by the anti-CD34 mAb (20 of 20). Although the metastatic prostatic cancer cells expressed PSMA in all the specimens, only 2 of 22 had neovasculature PSMA expression. Conclusions. As in primary prostatic adenocarcinomas, the neovasculature of metastatic prostate cancer, regardless of site, rarely express PSMA. The neovascular endothelial cells of metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma, however, express PSMA. This expression may make PSMA an effective target for mAb-based antineovasculature therapy in metastatic renal carcinoma.
From “Shrinks” to “Urban Shamans”: Argentine Immigrants’ Therapeutic Eclecticism in New York City

This article examines Argentine immigrants’ reliance on informal networks of care that enable their access to a variety of health providers in New York City (NYC). These providers range from health brokers (doctors known on a personal basis) to urban shamans, including folk healers and fortunetellers of various disciplines. A conceptual framework, based on analysis of social capital categories, is proposed for the examination of immigrants’ access to valuable health resources, which are based on relationships of reciprocity and trust among parties. Results revealed immigrants’ diverse patterns of health-seeking practices, most importantly their reliance on health brokers, epitomized by Argentine and Latino doctors who provide informal health assistance on the basis of sharing immigrants’ social fields and ethnic interests. While mental health providers constitute a health resource shared by Argentines’ social webs, urban shamans represent a trigger for the activation of women’s emotional support webs. Contrary to the familiar assumption that dense and homogenous networks are more beneficial to their members, this article underscores the advantages of heterogeneous and fluid social webs that connect immigrants to a variety of resources, including referrals to diverse health practitioners.
Sexual differentiation of the zebra finch song system: Positive evidence, negative evidence, null hypotheses, and a paradigm shift

Permanent sex differences in the brain are found in many vertebrates, and are thought to be induced by sex differences in secretion of gonadal steroid hormones during critical periods of early development. This theory has received support primarily from many experiments conducted on mammals, but also from studies on other vertebrate classes, including birds. The only avian neural dimorphism that has allowed extensive tests of this hypothesis is the neural circuit for song in passerine birds, which is much larger in males than in females. Experiments in zebra finches have yielded contradictory results. Although it is relatively easy to induce masculine patterns of development in genetic females with estrogen, it has not been possible to induce feminine patterns of development in males with any treatments, including antiestrogens and inhibitors of estrogen synthesis. Moreover, genetic females that develop with large amounts of functional testicular tissue but with virtually no ovarian tissue nevertheless have a feminine song circuit. The latter studies fail to support the idea of steroid induction of sexual differentiation. An alternative to the steroidal control hypothesis is that nonhormonal gene products expressed in the brain early in development trigger sexually dimorphic patterns of development. Although current evidence in several neural and nonneural systems indicates that sexual differentiation of some somatic phenotypes cannot be explained by the actions of gonadal steroids, the idea of direct genetic (nonhormonal) induction of sexual differentiation has yet to be proved.
Ancestry of SINE-R.C2 a human-specific retroposon.

We have reported previously that a retroposon, containing a variable number of tandemly repeated nucleotide sequences, is present in the third intron of the human C2 gene. This element, termed SINE-R.C2, is a member of a large retroposon family derived from the endogenous retrovirus HERV-K10 and estimated to include a few thousand copies per haploid human genome. In the present study we analyzed genomic DNA from 175 humans from several ethnic groups including Americans of European and African descent, Chinese, Africans, Australians, Pacific Islanders, Japanese, and Koreans. They all contained SINE-R.C2, as indicated by Southern blotting. However, SINE-R.C2 was absent from the genome of nonhuman primates, although SINE-R-type elements were present in chimpanzees and gorillas and the HERV-K10 genome was apparently present in all primates except for New World monkeys. These results indicate that HERV-K10 was inserted into the genome after the divergence of New World monkeys; the prototype SINE-R element, after divergence of orangutans; and SINE-R.C2, after the split between humans and chimpanzees.
Screening of Mixture Combinatorial Libraries for Chiral Selectors: A Reciprocal Chromatographic Approach Using Enantiomeric Libraries

An approach to screen mixture combinatorial libraries for chiral selectors is described. Crucial elements to such an approach are the reciprocity of chromatographic separation and the use of enantiomeric libraries. The feasibility of this method is demonstrated with a model study of the chiral resolution of (1-naphthyl)leucine ester 1 with a small peptide library.
P-0066FREQUENCY OF PATHOLOGICAL COMPLETE RESPONSE WITH NEO-ADJUVANT CHEMORADIOTHERAPY IN LOCALLY ADVANCED ESOPHAGEAL CANCER

Background: Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by esophagectomy has become the standard of care for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. The achievement of a pathological complete response is associated with an improved survival. This report analyzes our experience with this treatment approach. Methods: With a median age of 52 years (range 20 - 74), we retrospectively analyzed 61 patients (males 58%, females 42%) between 2003 to 2012 with pathologically confirmed esophageal cancer, treated with neo-adjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by esophagectomy. Pre-treatment AJCC stage; stage I 6%, stage II 46% and stage III 48% of the patients respectively. Site distribution; upper thoracic 2%, middle thoracic 24%, lower thoracic 62% and gastroesophageal junction tumour in 12% of the patients. Mean tumour length was 5.8 cm (range 2 - 11). Histological sub-types include; squamous cell carcinoma 80% and adenocarcinoma 20% of the patients. 78% of the
On the interaction between Ag-depleted zones surrounding γ plates and spinodal decomposition in an Al-22 at.% Ag alloy

Abstract Decomposition of a supersaturated Al-22 at.% Ag alloy isothermally reacted at 350 °C in the α+γ two-phase field was investigated using various transmission electron microscopy techniques. The alloy was found to undergo both nucleation and growth of γ plates and spinodal decomposition. The interaction between the two mechanisms of phase decomposition caused an accumulation of Ag to develop in the matrix adjacent to the Ag-depleted zone surrounding the plates, which amplified with aging time. The matrix removed from the γ plates underwent three-dimensional, isotropic spinodal decomposition. A two-dimensional Cahn–Hilliard equation was used to model spinodal decomposition in the presence of the Ag-depleted zone adjacent to the γ plate faces. Agreement between the calculated and experimental composition profiles supports the view that the Ag-depleted zone adjacent to the plate faces catalyzes the development of a two-dimensional form of spinodal decomposition.
Microcantilevers Modified by Horseradish Peroxidase Intercalated Nano-Assembly for Hydrogen Peroxide Detection

Detection of hydrogen peroxide is of industry interest and of biological importance. Here we report a new approach to hydrogen peroxide measurement using multilayer modified microcantilevers. Through a layer-by-layer nanoassembly technique, horseradish peroxidase was intercalated into a nanoscale multilayer assembly on one surface of microcantilevers. These enzyme-functionalized microcantilevers deflected in response to hydrogen peroxide concentrations in the nanomolar level. The magnitudes of bending were proportional to the concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, our study also showed that microcantilever technique may be used as a novel, more sensitive tool for the study of the conformational or structural changes of enzymes or proteins on surfaces.
Stem Cell-Calcium Phosphate Constructs for Bone Engineering

While human bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) have been investigated, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) are a relatively new cell source. Little has been reported on hUCMSC encapsulation in scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. The objective of this study was to encapsulate hBMSCs and hUCMSCs in calcium phosphate cement (CPC) scaffolds for dental, craniofacial, and orthopedic applications. Stem-cell-encapsulating CPC construct with chitosan and fiber reinforcement reached the strength of cancellous bone, which was much stronger than previous injectable carriers for cell delivery. hUCMSCs and hBMSCs inside the constructs showed excellent viability and osteo-differentiation. The encapsulated hUCMSCs synthesized nearly three-fold more bone minerals than the hBMSCs in vitro. Hence, stem-cell-encapsulating CPC-chitosan-fiber construct may be promising for dental and orthopedic applications. This study indicated that the hUCMSCs were a potent alternative to the gold-standard hBMSCs, which may have a broad impact on regenerative medicine and dental tissue engineering.
Development of a Ku-Band Corrugated Conical Horn Using 3-D Print Technology

We present the development of a Ku-band (10-16 GHz) corrugated conical horn antenna using 3-D print technology or stereolithography. The antenna is printed using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), a thermoplastic, and then coated with conductive aerosol paint. The designed antenna achieves a measured peak gain of 19.6 dBi at 16 GHz with a 1.92:1 VSWR from 11 to 18 GHz. It is shown that 3-D printing is capable of producing sufficient feature sizes that make operation in the microwave/millimeter-wave (MMW) bands possible.
Reaction engineering: Status and future challenges

Abstract This manuscript summarizes the plenary lecture delivered at the ISCRE 20 meeting in Kyoto on Tuesday, September 9, 2008. The scope, history and status of our chemical reaction engineering (CRE) discipline are briefly outlined complementing the broad review presented by Professor J. Schouten in a plenary lecture a day earlier ( Schouten, 2008 ). It is argued here that the key challenge for CRE is the development of new more efficient and profitable technologies. This is to be accomplished via an improved science-based scale-up methodology for transfer of molecular discoveries to sustainable non-polluting processes that can meet the future energy, environmental, food and materials needs of the world . Available foundations for such scale-up are introduced and the role of science in developing the improved methodology for multiphase systems is described. It is also argued that progress in implementing the desired environmentally benign processes depends, in addition to overcoming technical challenges, on achieving changes in the socio-economic and political arena. Global regulations and peer pressures are needed to provide the economic incentives for cleaner and sustainable processes.
Analytic equivalents of standard fire temperature curves

A report of the development of analytical expressions that result in an improved fit to the standard time-temperature curve.
Social network thresholds in the diffusion of innovations

Abstract Threshold models have been postulated as one explanation for the success or failure of collective action and the diffusion of innovations. The present paper creates a social network threshold model of the diffusion of innovations based on the Ryan and Gross (1943) adopter categories: (1) early adopters; (2) early majority; (3) late majority; (4) laggards. This new model uses social networks as a basis for adopter categorization, instead of solely relying on the system-level analysis used previously. The present paper argues that these four adopter categories can be created either with respect to the entire social system, or with respect to an individual's personal network. This dual typology is used to analyze three diffusion datasets to show how external influence and opinion leadership channel the diffusion of innovations. Network thresholds can be used (1) to vary the definition of behavioral contagion, (2) to predict the pattern of diffusion of innovations, and (3) to identify opinion leaders and followers in order to understand the two-step flow hypothesis better.
Project Development and Public Relations in Consulting Engineering

ABSTRACTEngineering consulting firms have historically paid little attention to client and public relations strategies. Only in recent years have professional engineering journals carried articles on business and marketing plans or supported advertising and programs to manage client account potential.But now, the critical role of public relations within the systematic development of client potential is being recognized as an essential ingredient in reaching and influencing targeted groups of clients in today's global economy. The marketing-selling of consulting engineering services is clearly a management process-analytical, rational, and thoughtful. Engineering managers may spend years developing an intuitive approach to the client development process yet be unable to specify its dimensions and characteristics.This paper presents a conceptual framework for understanding how public and client relations program efforts contribute to clear and purposeful project development. The argument for crafting the pu...
The efficient cluster packing model : An atomic structural model for metallic glasses

Abstract A structural model is described for metallic glasses based on a new sphere packing scheme – the efficient filling of space by solute-centered clusters. This model combines random positioning of solvent atoms with atomic order of solutes. It shows that metallic glasses contain ⩽4 topologically distinct species and that solutes possess specific sizes relative to solvent atoms to produce efficient atomic packing. Validation is achieved by quantitative predictions of nearest-neighbor partial coordination numbers, medium-range solute ordering, density and metallic glass topologies. Good agreement is achieved in each of these areas. This model is able to reproduce compositions for a broad range of metallic glasses, provides specific guidance for the exploration of new bulk metallic glasses and may give new insights into other metallic glass studies. The new scheme introduced here for the efficient filling of space in extended systems of unequal spheres may have relevance to other fields.
A Contribution to the Theory of Price Regulations and Commodity Bundling with an Application to the Case of China

Abstract The selling of commodities in bundles is a strategy employed by sellers who face buyers with heterogeneous tastes. This paper demonstrates that the bundling of two goods may also be a response to price ceilings, even if both goods are subject to such regulations. Thus, the reduced role of commodity bundling at the retail level in China may be a consequence of economic liberalization. J. Comp. Econom., March 1998, 26 (1), pp. 142–149. Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-3601.
Durability of molybdenum disilicide in molten alkali borosilicate glass

Abstract The kinetics and mechanisms of corrosion of MoSi 2 materials were investigated in molten alkali borosilicate glass at 1000–1550°C for 0.5–1510 hours. The corrosion behavior of MoSi 2 is compared to an alumina-zirconia-chrome-silica refractory (AZCS). The corrosion rates were evaluated by measuring dimensional changes at, above, and below the molten glass line. MoSi 2 -based materials perfomed at least as well as AZCS above and below the glass line, but were somewhat inferior at the glass line. The kinetics and mechanisms of corrosion of MoSi 2 varied with position in the melt. Above the glass line a semi-protective SiO 2 layer forms. Below the glass line, a protective Mo-rich layer forms. At the glass line, simultaneous dissolution of SiO 2 and vaporization of MoO 3 leads to comparatively rapid loss of material. Based on microstructural studies, a phenomenological model is proposed that illustrates the basic mechanisms of corrosion in these three regions.
Study of triangular defects and inverted pyramids in 4H-SiC 4° off-cut (0 0 0 1) Si face epilayers

Abstract Growth of high-quality epilayers on low off-cut angle wafers is essential for the development of high-performance devices based on hexagonal SiC. Device killing defects such as triangular and inverted pyramid-type defects formed during homoepitaxial growth on the 4H-SiC Si face, 4° off-cut towards [1 1 2¯ 0] direction, have been investigated in this work. The goal of this research was to minimize or eliminate these defects. Growth parameters responsible for triangular defect formation were identified and optimized for its reduction. It was found that although growth at high temperatures reduces the density of triangular defects and inverted pyramid-type defects, it is not the only remedy for reducing their density; cleanliness of the susceptor along with the initial growth condition plays a major role in the formation of these defects.
RADIATIVE CORRECTIONS TO SYMMETRIC PAIR PRODUCTION.

The radiative corrections to symmetric pair production are calculated to a high degree of accuracy. The matrix element squared for the hard-photon correction is expressed approximately in a simple form which, for symmetric pair production, describes the corresponding radiative correction to better than 1%. This approximation improves on the often-used peaking approximation. The results are useful also for calculating radiative corrections to bremsstrahlung and trident production.
Spectrophotometric Measurements of Phytochrome in vivo and Their Correlation with Photomorphogenic Responses of Phaseolus

Direct in vivo measurements of phytochrome have been made in Phaseolus vulgaris by 2-filter difference spectrophotometry (Ratiospect). All measurements were made at 730 versus 800 nm and it is assumed that the Delta (DeltaOD) is directly proportional to the PFR concentration of phytochrome present. Dose response curves were determined for both physiological and spectrophotometric responses for red induction and far-red photoinactivation. For induction, saturation occurs at 100 mj/cm(2) and for inactivation at 30 mj/cm(2). The rate of hook opening and the physiological response measured 20 hours after induction are both shown to be directly proportional to the initial amount of PFR present spectrophotometrically. The sensitivity of the tissue correlates well with the absolute amount of phytochrome present, the inner portion of the hook having the maximum concentration of 0.042 Delta (DeltaOD)/g fresh weight. If the total reversible phytochrome concentration is reduced by exposure to red light and allowing PFR to decay out of the system the remaining sensitivity of the tissue is shown to be directly correlated with the amount of PR remaining in the tissue. PFR disappears rapidly in the dark at 25 degrees , and is not detectable after 6 hours. There is no indication that PFR reverts in the system to PR. At 4 degrees , PFR does not disappear measurably up to 1 hour and is nearly totally reversible to PR.
Thickness effects on the magnetic hysteresis of Co-Pt films

Abstract The magnetic and structural properties of Co x Pt 100− x films with x =40,45 and 50 at%, have been investigated. The magnetic studies were focused on the dependence of magnetic hysteresis on the film thickness. The sample thicknesses varied between 10 and 200 nm. The coercivities of the as-grown, disordered fcc structure films did not change very much with thickness for all compositions studied. Upon annealing at 650 and 700°C, a structural transformation takes place to the ordered face centered tetragonal (fct) phase which has a high anisotropy resulting in large coercivities that show a pronounced thickness dependence for all the compositions studied.
Personality as a Predictor of User Strategy: How Locus of Control Affects Search Strategies on Tree Visualizations

Individual differences matter. While this has been the theme for many recent works in the Visualization and HCI communities, the mystery of how to develop personalized visualizations remains. This is largely because very little is known about how users actually use visualizations to solve problems and even less is known about how individual differences affect these problem-solving strategies. In this paper, we provide evidence that strategies are indeed influenced by individual differences. We demonstrate how the personality trait locus of control impacts strategies on hierarchical visualizations, and we introduce design recommendations for personalized visualizations.
A comparison of reciprocal inhibition and reactive inhibition therapies in the treatment of speech anxiety

Two methods of behavior therapy, reciprocal inhibition therapy and reactive inhibition therapy, were compared. The target behavior was speech anxiety; subjects were college students. Ten subjects received reciprocal inhibition therapy in a group, 10 subjects received reactive inhibition therapy in a group, and 10 subjects received no treatment. Differences between pretest and posttest scores on a measure of speech anxiety were analyzed, using a 2 × 3 factorial design. Both treatment methods were equally effective and both were significantly superior to no treatment. The results suggest that reactive inhibition therapy may be more efficient than reciprocal inhibition therapy, since it is a simpler procedure.
Cutaneous involvement of dermatomyositis can respond to Dapsone therapy

Background Dapsone (4,4-diaminodiphenylsulfone) is a sulfone antibiotic used in the treatment of leprosy, but dermatologists more commonly utilize its anti-inflammatory properties particularly directed against leukocytes to treat various bullous disorders, erythema nodosum, pyoderma gangrenosum, Sweet’s syndrome, cutaneous vasculitis, and cutaneous forms of lupus erythematosus. The cutaneous manifestations of dermatomyositis are often resistant to antimalarial and immunosuppressive therapies. Methods Two patients with cutaneous dermatomyositis unresponsive to combination therapy with prednisone, hydroxychloroquine, quinacrine, and immunosuppressive medications had Dapsone added to their therapy. Results Both patients showed rapid improvement with the addition of Dapsone. Each had an exacerbation of their cutaneous dermatomyositis on Dapsone with withdrawal and subsequent improvement when the Dapsone was reinstituted. Conclusions Dapsone therapy for cutaneous dermatomyositis may have a wider role in treatment for these patients refractory to prednisone and antimalarial therapy.
New immunofluorescent antibody test for diagnosis of candidiasis using macrophage-engulfed antigens as substrate

Abstract A new method for detection of antibodies to polysaccharidic antigens of Candida albicans is described. The method is based on the selective uptake of carbohydrate-rich antigens by mouse peritoneal macrophages, the antibodies being revealed by indirect immunofluorescence after incubation of fixed, antigen-containing macrophages with sera (MU/IFA test). This test shows greater sensitivity than counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIE) with good discrimination between infected patients and normal asymptomatic individuals. The combination of CIE using cytoplasmic antigens and MU/IFA using surface antigens is useful in a considerable majority of cases for diagnosis of clinical infection.
Acute type B aortic dissection: surgical therapy

Abstract Background Surgery for acute type B aortic dissection is associated with significant mortality. We report the results for 34 consecutive patients who underwent urgent surgery because they met criteria for operation during the acute phase ( Methods The average patient age was 64 (32 to 88) years. Indications for surgery were persistent pain (12), threatened exsanguination (18), malperfusion (renal [3], limb [3]), rapid aortic enlargement (4), and uncontrolled hypertension (1). The mean interval from onset of pain to operation was 7 (1 to 14) days. Resection included the proximal descending aorta in 32, the distal aortic arch in 10, extension to the diaphragm in 10, and involved a thoracoabdominal procedure in 3. Surgical techniques included hypothermic circulatory arrest (16 [47%]), distal bypass, monitoring of somatosensory-evoked potentials, sequential intercostal sacrifice (average, 5.6 pairs), cerebrospinal fluid drainage, and steroid administration. Results There was no hospital mortality. Important complications occurred in 16 patients (47%): 10 respiratory requiring tracheostomy, six infectious, four dialysis, two myocardial infarctions, and two neurologic (one transient stroke, one paraplegia). Mean intensive care unit and hospital stays were 10 (3 to 32) and 35 (7 to 107) days. Survival at 5 and 10 years was 80% and 57%, respectively (mean follow-up, 5.8 years). Conclusions Patients meeting criteria for urgent surgery have a low perioperative risk for mortality and paraplegia, and are relatively free from long-term aorta-related complications. These findings warrant consideration of earlier surgery for appropriate patients with acute type B aortic dissection.
The Dimensionality of the Hollenbeck, Williams, and Klein (1989) Measure of Goal Commitment on Complex Tasks

This research examines the dimensionality of the Hollenbeck, Williams, and Klein (1989) self-report measure of goal commitment on complex tasks. Results from three studies suggest that for complex tasks, responses to a subset of items reflect performance expectancies while another subset of items reflect goal commitment. This response pattern is demonstrated through differential temporal stability, differential relationships with negative feedback reactions, and confirmatory factor analyses. Practical and theoretical implications of the dimensionality of this measure are discussed.
Persistence of selected organophosphate and carbamate insecticides in waters from a coastal watershed

Organophosphate and carbamate compounds are among the most widely used pesticides. Contamination of surface water by these compounds is of concern because of potential toxicity to aquatic organisms, especially those at lower trophic levels. In this study we evaluated the persistence of diazinon, chlorpyrifos, malathion, and carbaryl in waters from various sites in the Newport Bay-San Diego Creek watershed in southern California (USA). The persistence of diazinon and chlorpyrifos was much longer than that of malathion or carbaryl and was further prolonged in seawater. Microbial degradation contributed significantly to the dissipation of diazinon and chlorpyrifos in freshwater, but was inhibited in seawater, leading to increased persistence. In contrast, degradation of malathion and carbaryl was rapid and primarily abiotic. A greater temperature dependence was observed for carbaryl degradation in all waters and for diazinon degradation in freshwater. The interactions of pesticide persistence with water location, temperature, and type of pesticides suggest that site- and compound-specific information is needed when evaluating the overall ecotoxicological risks of pesticide pollution in a watershed. Because the persistence of diazinon and chlorpyrifos may increase significantly in seawater, mitigation should occur before the pesticides reach seawater. The relatively short persistence of these compounds in freshwater suggests that practices aimed at extending residence time (e.g., diversion to wetlands) may effectively reduce pesticide output to downstream water bodies.
Photographic Survey of Sea Floor on Southwest Slope of Eniwetok Atoll

A remnant of an old submarine erosion surface lies at a maximum depth of 1100 fathoms on the southwest slope of Eniwetok Atoll. Underwater photographs taken at a number of locations with a U. S. Navy Electronics Laboratory Camera have disclosed at least 50 square miles of ripple-marked calcareous sand and reef debris of Recent age at water depths ranging from 750 to 1100 fathoms; short cores penetrated fine-grained underlying Pliocene sediment at a number of stations. In at least two locations near the central area of the survey, the ripple marks are indurated by a cement which has given the bottom a dark appearance. Lighter-colored sediment shows through in irregular patches. Presumably formed in recently accumulated materials, these indurated ripple marks contrast sharply with the freshly rippled and sorted bottom sediments found over a greater part of the erosion surface. Manganese-coated bedrock or boulders project through coarse, sandy sediments near the outer break in slope. Although the photographs show an almost complete sediment cover, the short gravity cores indicate that the accumulated sediments are relatively thin. Water action has prevented bottom materials from building up any appreciable thickness since the Tertiary. A noticeable lack of benthic life in the photographs suggests not only strong water movements but a bottom environment of low organic content. These water movements on topographical highs appear to have originated below normal tidal wave action but apparently were related to mass eddy movements around submerged underwater features. Short-period oscillatory waves growing out of these mass water movements resulted in symmetrically shaped ripple marks at great depths.
Investigating preservice elementary teachers’ self-efficacy relative to self-image as a science teacher

This paper is part of the examination of a pilot investigation into the possible relation ship between preservice teachers’ self-efficacy and perceptions of self as a science teacher Self-efficacy was measured using the Science Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument, Form B (STEBI-B) developed by Riggs and Enochs (1990). Perceptions of self as a science teacher were measured using the revised DASTT-C. In this instance, pretest and posttest data generated by both instruments for a single elementary science methods class were utilized and compared. In addition, preservice teachers wrote brief narrative descriptions of their drawings. These data were compared in an attempt to determine if any relationship appears to exist between DASTT-C and STEBI scores.
Long-Acting Neuromuscular Blocker Use During Prehospital Transport of Trauma Patients

Abstract Introduction The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of long-acting neuromuscular blocker (LA-NMB) use and evaluate the concurrent use of sedatives during prehospital care. Setting Prehospital patients who were brought to a single emergency department in the United States. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of trauma patients who were intubated in the prehospital setting. The primary outcome measure was to determine the rate of LA-NMB use. The use of postintubation sedatives and the time to the administration of sedative agents was compared between patients who received an LA-NMB and those who did not. Results A total of 51 patients were included in the final analyses. Overall, 82% (n = 42) of patients received an LA-NMB during transport. There was no difference in the rate of postintubation sedative use during transport between the LA-NMB and no LA-NMB groups (79% vs. 67%, respectively, P = .42). The LA-NMB group received sedatives less promptly after intubation compared with those who did not receive LA-NMBs (16 vs. 7 minutes, respectively; P = .04). Conclusion The use of LA-NMB is common during the prehospital transport of trauma patients. Some of these patients may not be given sedatives or may have delays in receiving sedatives after intubation.
In vivo NMR imaging and spectroscopic investigation of renal pathology in lean and obese rat kidneys

Diabetic nephropathy is a major cause of end-stage renal failure. While our understanding of the pathogenesis of nephropathy is incomplete, progressive glomerular injury appears to play a significant role in the decline of renal function. Proton NMR spectroscopy and imaging techniques were used to address changes in renal pathology associated with glomerular mesangial expansion in vivo in kidneys from spontaneously obese and lean (control) littermate Zucker rats. Fully functioning rat kidneys were surgically exposed and externalized for direct NMR signal detection via a coil placed around the organ. High-resolution (78 microns in plane) proton images were obtained at 4.7 T magnetic field strength revealing fine structure within the well-defined cortical and medullary regions. The obese rat kidney images were distinct in appearance from the lean kidney images and exhibited marked cortical expansion as well as increased overall kidney size. Enlargement of mean glomerular diameter was verified histologically in the obese kidneys as compared with the lean kidneys. Proton T1 and T2 relaxation times were determined from the entire kidney using standard spectroscopic techniques, and from specific regions within the kidney from multiple T1- and T-2 weighted images. Additionally, image contrast enhancement resulting from saturation transfer between protons in restricted-mobility environments and mobile water protons within the kidney was investigated in the lean and obese rat kidneys using magnetization-transfer imaging techniques. At the early stage of renal injury examined in this study, diseased and healthy kidneys could not be differentiated on the basis of relaxation times alone. The magnitude of saturation transfer obtained in cortical tissue in the lean and obese kidneys was also not statistically significantly different. However, the magnitude of saturation transfer achieved in the medullary tissue of obese kidneys was statistically significantly less than that achieved in lean kidneys.
El legado político-intelectual de Eric Hobsbawm: Historias globales desde arriba y desde abajo

Escribir historias globales no es solo hilar argumentos en una narrativa historiografica, sino tambien accionar para cambiar el mundo a traves de una praxis transformativa. En este breve articulo, no pretendemos hacer un balance del legado de un gigante intelectual, con una obra tan prolifica, versatil y variada, como fue Eric Hobsbawm, pero si presentar una reflexion general sobre su trabajo que combino organicamente teoria, historia y praxis politica. Pensar criticamente su legado implica trascender la simple hagiografia y celebracion de su enorme estatura intelectual, para reconocer no solo sus grandes virtudes sino tambien sus ambiguedades, problemas y contradicciones, lo cual intentaremos hacer en este ensayo.
The neurological presentations of childhood and adult mitochondrial disease: established syndromes and phenotypic variations

Abstract Mitochondrial disorders are caused by mutations of nuclear or mitochondrial DNA encoded genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Mutations in these critical genes are associated with specific clinical syndromes with diverse presentations (Dimauro and Schon, 2003. NEJM 348, 2656; Hart et al., 2002. Mitochondrial Disorders in Neurology). Since mitochondria are present in many of our organs and play a key role in energy metabolism, mitochondrial encephalomyopathies often present as multisystem disorders which may manifest with neurologic, cardiac, endocrine, gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal and/or hematologic involvement (DiMauro and Bonilla, 1997. The Molecular and Genetic Basis of Neurological Disease; Vu et al., 2002. Neurol. Clin. N. Am. 20, 809). This chapter will address adult and childhood onset mitochondrial DNA encephalomyopathies, characteristic clinical presentations, as well as their molecular characterization.
Conformational analyses of molecules and molecular clusters

Abstract Parallels are drawn between gas-phase electron diffraction studies of conformations of free molecules and of molecular clusters. A primary goal of cluster research is the measurement of nucleation rates in structural transformations. Advantages of cluster systems are outlined, and the significance of the results obtained is explained. Illustrative examples are given.
The Good as God (Romans 5.7)

Citing ancient authors who use the articular substantive adjective [UNKNOWN]γαθός/[UNKNOWN]γαθόν in reference to deity, this article proposes that ΤοU[UNKNOWN]γαθο[UNKNOWN] in Rom 5.7 designates God while δικαου refers to any righteous person. This distinction integrates Rom. 5.7 into an argument a minore ad majus with an ascending series from the ungodly to the righteous person and then to God. The structure of this argument emphasizes the anomaly of the statement in v. 6, which to maintain logical progression should read ‘no one dies for the ungodly’. This verse, however, affirms the contrary, namely that Christ died on behalf of the ungodly. Precisely this anomaly in the logical progression substantiates the commendation of God’s love reiterated in v. 8, which concludes the argument.
Cyclin dependent kinase-9 mediated transcriptional de-regulation of cMYC as a critical determinant of endocrine-therapy resistance in breast cancers

Endocrine therapy resistance in estrogen receptor alpha positive (ERα+) breast cancers remains a major obstacle for maintaining efficacy of targeted therapies. We investigated the significance and the mechanisms involved in cMYC over-expression in a MCF7 derived panel of ERα+ breast cancer cells which can proliferate in the absence of estrogen with different sensitivities to anti-hormone therapies. We show that all the resistant cell lines tested over-express cMYC as compared to parental MCF7 cells and its inhibition lead to the differential blocking of estrogen-independent proliferation in resistant cells. Further investigation of the resistant cell line, MCF7:5C, suggested transcriptional de-regulation of cMYC gene was responsible for its over-expression. Chromatin immuno-precipitation assay revealed markedly higher recruitment of phosphorylated serine-2 carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase-II at the proximal promoter of cMYC gene, which is responsible for transcriptional elongation of the cMYC RNA. The level of CDK9, a factor responsible for the phosphorylation of serine-2 of RNA polymerase II CTD, was found to be elevated in all the resistant cell lines. Pharmacological inhibition of CDK9 not only reduced the transcripts and the protein levels of cMYC in MCF7:5C cells but also selectively inhibited the estrogen-independent growth of all the resistant cell lines. This study describes the up-stream molecular events involved in the transcriptional over-expression of cMYC gene in breast cancer cells proliferating estrogen-independently and identifies CDK9 as a potential novel drug target for therapeutic intervention in endocrine-resistant breast cancers.
An Anti-traditional Tradition: The American Idea of Liberal Education

美国自由教育理念并非自始至终具有一个一以贯之的形态。杰斐逊开创的自由教 育传统强调自由学习、知识的普及与传播, 但还是以精英教育为主。但其核心“言说 的自由与技艺”得以传承下去, 这导致了美国自由教育思想的持续的“反传统”变 革。爱默生针对美国商业文化的泛滥, 提出注重反思与体验式学习的理念, 为反传统 的传统注入了活力。美国的自由教育仍然在针对新时期的社会流俗作出必要的调整并 将持续下去。 关键词: 自由教育 杰斐逊 爱默生 反传统 The American idea of liberal education does not have a consistent thread running through it. The tradition of liberal education pioneered by Thomas Jefferson emphasized liberal learning and the diffusion of knowledge, but its object was still elite education. However, the inheritance of its core ideas of “freedom of speech and useful skills” led to sustained “anti- traditional” changes in American thinking about liberal education. Targeting the excesses of American business culture, Ralph Waldo Emerson proposed focusing on reflection and experiential learning, injecting new life into the anti-traditional tradition. American liberal education is still making necessary adjustments to the latest trends of our new era, and will continue to do so.
PUTTING MASSEY'S RELATIONAL SENSE OF PLACE TO PRACTICE: LABOUR AND THE CONSTITUTION OF JOLLY BEACH, ANTIGUA, WEST INDIES

Place is a central concept in geographical thought. Though places continue to play an important role as a scale and site of research, place is not widely used as a method of analysis. Doreen Massey...