cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Starburstr̀ dendrimers — Nanoscopic supermolecules according to dendritic rules and principles

Construction of dendritic macromolecules based on the mimicry of macroscopic branching patterns found in trees is reviewed. From this mimicry, synthetic strategies have been developed for the preparation of precise macromolecular building blocks referred to as Starburstr/Cascade dendrimers. These dendrimer constructions involve the amplifications of matter (mass) by organizing monomer units around initiator cores according to geometrically driven mathematical rules and principles. The predictable precision of mass and valency (i.e., number of reactive surface groups) displayed by these dendrimers, as a function of generation, validates their proposed role as fundamental nanoscopic building blocks (i.e., particle sizes of 10 −1000A). This emerging area of “structure-controlled polymers” is defining a fourth new major class of macromolecular architecture. Ideal, defect free structures of Starburstr polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers (e.g., NH3 core; generation = 2.0, MWt. 2,414) have been synthesized in kilogram quantities with overall yields of 60-70%. The precise masses and surface valencies associated with these dendrimer structures allow one to view these entities as “nanoscopic analogues” to atoms. As such, basic rules of chemical combination between dendrimers to give definite, stoichiometric compositions can be defined much as first noted by Dalton for atoms. The use of these nanoscopic building blocks (i.e., 10–1000A species) to construct supramolecular/supermolecular structures such as nanoscopic compounds, clusters and macro-lattices will be reviewed. Registered trademark of Dendritech Inc.
Some limit theorems for cumulative processes with applications to sojourn times

In this paper we drive some limit theorems for the expected value of a cumulative process. We use these theorems to study the limiting behavior of the expected total time spent in a given state by an alternating renewal process. As special cases we obtain some previously known results about the expected total time spent in a given state by a Markov or semi-Markov chain.
Stability of predictors of outcome of surgical treatment for epilepsy

Abstract Predictors of outcome of cortical resection surgery for epilepsy have differed markedly from report to report. A study of this problem was undertaken with 100 cases with 2-year follow-ups on whom 70 preoperative variables were obtained. Findings from predictive studies of differing sample sizes were simulated by conducting serial analyses with subgroups of 20, 25, 33, and 50 subjects. For each subgroup and for the total group of 100, subjects reporting at least a 75% reduction in seizure frequency in the second year following surgery ("successes") were statistically compared with those having a less favorable outcome ("failures"). Single predictors applied to groups of 20 or 25 subjects produced highly variable findings. Even single predictors from groups of 33 or 50 patients were replicated inconsistently. However, sets of multivariate predictors were more stable, especially in the larger groups. Such sets of variables in combination with larger sample sizes and conservative significance levels offer the best chance of producing results that will hold across studies and over time.
Normal vibrations of polyglycine II

A valence force field has been refined for single-chain polyglycine II using the known structure and four isotopic derivatives. The calculated frequencies are in good agreement with the observed. The force field is compared with that derived from polyglycine I and for the nylons.
Strawberry Anthracnose: Progress toward Control through Science

Anthracnose crown rot has been a destructive disease of strawberries in the southeastern U.S. since the 1930s. The causal fungus, C. fragariae, infects all above-ground plant parts; however, diseas...
pH-dependent binding of chromogranin B and secretory vesicle matrix proteins to the vesicle membrane.

Contrary to the notion that the soluble intravesicular matrix proteins of the secretory vesicles of adrenal medullary chromaffin cells freely float in the vesicle, several vesicle matrix proteins of the secretory vesicles, including chromogranins A and B, bound to the vesicle membrane at intravesicular pH (5.5) and were freed from it when the pH was raised to a near physiological pH (7.5). Estimation of the fraction of vesicle matrix proteins that might remain bound to the vesicle membrane in the vesicle suggested that the majority (> 50-80%) of chromogranins A and B, as well as several other proteins, will stay bound to the membrane in the vesicle. Comparison of the amino-acid sequences of chromogranins A and B revealed two highly conserved regions, i.e., one near the N-terminus and the other being the C-terminal region. Since it has been demonstrated with chromogranin A that the conserved near N-terminal region of chromogranin A exhibited the pH-dependent membrane-binding activity (Yoo, S. H. (1993) Biophys. J., 64, A195), the same region in chromogranin B (residues 17-36) was tested using a synthetic chromogranin B peptide, and found to exhibit the pH-dependent membrane-binding activity. The pH-dependent binding of the matrix proteins at pH 5.5 and the automatic untethering at a physiological pH accord well with the rapid release and circulation of the vesicular contents in the bloodstream.
Earthquake early warning application to buildings

In California, United States, an earthquake early warning system is currently being tested through the California Integrated Seismic Network (CISN). The system aims to provide warnings in seconds to tens of seconds prior to the occurrence of ground shaking at a site; since the system broadcasts the location and time of the earthquake, user software can estimate the arrival time and intensity of the expected S-wave. However, the shaking experienced by a user in a tall building will be significantly different from that on the ground. This paper provides a method to develop engineering applications in earthquake early warning system using Performance-based Earthquake Engineering framework. An example is included to estimate the characteristics of shaking that can be expected in mid-rise to high-rise buildings. Potential engineering applications (e.g. elevator control) for buildings based on the prediction of building shaking level are also addressed.
Complications of Abdominal and Pelvic Procedures: Computed Tomographic Diagnosis

The postprocedural period is a critical time in which serious complications can manifest. Localization of suspected complications following abdominal and pelvic procedures can be difficult on clinical evaluation alone. For example, abdominal pain after a colonoscopy may vary in etiology and can result from simple colonic spasm to colonic perforation, hemoperitoneum, or even splenic rupture. Vague abdominal pain following a renal biopsy may be due to minimal postprocedural bleeding into and around the kidney or may be due to potentially life-threatening hemorrhage. In such patients, computed tomography can play a crucial role in the rapid identification of complications as well guidance of subsequent patient management. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the benefit of computed tomography-assisted diagnosis of complications associated with routine procedures performed on or throughout the abdomen and pelvis, including cardiac catheterization, colonoscopy, endoscopy, percutaneous biopsy, and interventional radiology procedures.
Estimating the Public Good Value of Preserving a Local Historic Landmark: The Role of Non-substitutability and Citizen Information:

This study applies stated-preference methods to estimate the public good values of preservation and restoration of a local historic landmark in a medium-sized US city. The survey device centres on ...
Involvement of retinoblastoma (Rb) and E2F transcription factors during photodynamic therapy of human epidermoid carcinoma cells A431.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), a promising new therapeutic modality for the management of a variety of solid malignancies and many non-malignant diseases, is a bimodal therapy using a porphyrin based photosensitizing chemical and visible light. The proper understanding of the mechanism of PDT-mediated cancer cell-kill may result in improving the efficacy of this treatment modality. Earlier we have shown (Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA; 95: 6977-6982, 1998) that silicon phthalocyanine (Pc4)-PDT results in an induction of the cyclin kinase inhibitor WAF1/CIP1/p21 which, by inhibiting cyclins (E and D1) and cyclin dependent kinases (cdk2 and cdk6), results in a G0/G1-phase arrest followed by apoptosis in human epidermoid carcinoma cells A431. We have also demonstrated the generation of nitric oxide during PDT-mediated apoptosis (Cancer Res.; 58: 1785-1788, 1998). Retinoblastoma (pRb) and E2F family transcription factors are important proteins, which regulate the G1→S transition in the cell cycle. Here, we provide evidence for the involvement of pRb-E2F/DP machinery as an important contributor of PDT-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Western blot analysis demonstrated a decrease in the hyper-phosphorylated form of pRb at 3, 6 and 12 h post-PDT with a relative increase in hypo-phosphorylated pRb. Western blot analysis also revealed that PDT-caused decrease in phosphorylation of pRb occurs at serine-780. The ELISA data demonstrated a time dependent accumulation of hypo-phosphorylated pRb by PDT. This response was accompanied with down-regulation in the protein expression of all five E2F (1 – 5) family transcription factors, and their heterodimeric partners DP1 and DP2. These results suggest that Pc4-PDT of A431 cells results in a down regulation of hyper-phosphorylated pRb protein with a relative increase in hypo-phosphorylated pRb that, in turn, compromises with the availability of free E2F. We suggest that these events result in a stoppage of the cell cycle progression at G1→S transition thereby leading to a G0/G1 phase arrest and a subsequent apoptotic cell death. These data provide an evidence for the involvement of pRb-E2F/DP machinery in PDT-mediated cell cycle arrest leading to apoptosis.
PIXE: A tool for research and education

Abstract The advantages of PIXE as an analytical tool are well known but the suitability of the method as an excellent educational tool for the training of students in research may not be as widely appreciated. This paper will demonstrate the latter attribute by describing research projects involving undergraduate students. The projects include PIXE analysis of: blood serum, annual-growth rings in trees, rainwater, and carbon water filters.
Renal transit time of 99mTc-diethylenetriaminepentacetic acid (DTPA) in normal dogs.

The transit time of 99mTc-DTPA in the kidneys is an indicator of renal function that has been used in humans for the diagnosis of renal obstruction, renal artery stenosis, and rejection of renal transplants. Its use, however, has not been reported in the dog. 99mTc-DTPA scintigraphy was performed in 8 normal dogs and the time of peak was calculated as the time between the injection and the maximum renal uptake. Deconvolution analysis was performed to estimate the renal retention function using 3 different techniques, i.e. the matrix method, the fast Fourier transform (FFT) method, and the constrained least square method. The parenchymal and whole kidney mean transit times were calculated from the deconvolved renogram using alternatively the thorax and the aorta as the input function. Average mean transit times ranged from 137 to 184 seconds. Parenchymal mean transit time was significantly shorter than whole kidney mean transit time (P < 0.03). Mean transit time calculated with the thorax as the input function was significantly longer than mean transit time calculated with the aorta (P < 0.001). No differences were observed between mean transit time calculated with the matrix, FFT and constrained least square methods.
Trophic ecology of a freshwater sponge (Spongilla lacustris) revealed by stable isotope analysis

The vital roles that sponges play in marine habitats are well-known. However, sponges inhabiting freshwaters have been largely ignored despite having widespread distributions and often high local abun- dances. We used natural abundance stable isotope signatures of carbon and nitrogen (d 13 C and d 15 N) to infer the primary food source of the cosmopolitan freshwater sponge Spongilla lacustris. Our results suggest that S. lacustris feed largely on pelagic resources and may therefore link pelagic and benthic food webs. A facultative association between S. lacustris and endosymbiotic green algae caused S. lacustris to have significantly depleted carbon and nitrogen signatures that may reflect carbon and nitrogen exchange between sponges and their symbi- otic algae. Isotopic data from specialist sponge consumers demonstrated that sponges hosting zoo- chlorellae were the major component of the diet of the spongillafly Climacia areolaris and the sponge-eating caddisfly Ceraclea resurgens suggesting that the symbiosis between freshwater sponges and algae is important to sponge predator trophic ecology. Our results help define the role of sponges in freshwater ecosystems and shed new light on the evolution and ecological consequences of a complex tri-trophic symbiosis involving freshwater sponges, zoochlorel- lae, and spongivorous insects.
Numerical studies of the multi-cavity free-electron laser

Consideration is made of a free-electron laser with many optical cavities where the cavities communicate with each other, not optically, but through the electron beam. Numerical simulation results in the one-dimensional approximation, but including nonlinearities, are presented. The multi-cavity free-electron laser (MC/FEL) can be employed to avoid the slippage phenomena, and thus to make pico-second pulses of infrared radiation. Three examples of this application are presented.
Location, location, location: regionalization and outcome in pediatric critical care.

Abstract This article briefly reviews some of the background, recent studies, and unanswered questions related to regionalization of critical care services for children. Evidence and arguments in support of centralized services for critically ill children are increasing. Early studies suggested that organized systems of care improve outcomes. More recently, investigators have examined tertiary pediatric critical care and specific components of tertiary care. More recent studies have provided additional evidence supporting regionalization and documenting its effects. Unfortunately, a growing body of evidence suggests that many hospitalized critically ill children with fatal outcomes in the United States never received the highest level of care available.
Cocaine Regulates MEF2 to Control Synaptic and Behavioral Plasticity

Repeated exposure to cocaine causes sensitized behavioral responses and increased dendritic spines on medium spiny neurons of the nucleus accumbens (NAc). We find that cocaine regulates myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcription factors to control these two processes in vivo. Cocaine suppresses striatal MEF2 activity in part through a mechanism involving cAMP, the regulator of calmodulin signaling (RCS), and calcineurin. We show that reducing MEF2 activity in the NAc in vivo is required for the cocaine-induced increases in dendritic spine density. Surprisingly, we find that increasing MEF2 activity in the NAc, which blocks the cocaine-induced increase in dendritic spine density, enhances sensitized behavioral responses to cocaine. Together, our findings implicate MEF2 as a key regulator of structural synapse plasticity and sensitized responses to cocaine and suggest that reducing MEF2 activity (and increasing spine density) in NAc may be a compensatory mechanism to limit long-lasting maladaptive behavioral responses to cocaine.
Meaning and practice of palliative care for nursing home residents with dementia at end of life

Objective: To describe the meaning and practice of palliative care (PC) for nursing home (NH) residents with dementia at end of life (EOL). Design: Concurrent mixed methods (quantitative retrospective chart review and qualitative field study). Setting: Three NHs with varying approaches to EOL care: in-house non-Medicare hospice, Medicare hospice by outside agency, and Medicare hospice by outside agency plus specialized staff and comfort care unit. Results: Residents' course fluctuated between curative and comfort care, with a noticeable increase in symptoms right before death. Hospice care was short. Most died of complications of dementia. Families found care decisions based on residents' uncertain disease course difficult. Conclusion: The role of PC for NH residents with dementia at EOL is complex and poorly understood. As they are in a residential setting, decisions need to be made about how residents live, as well as how they die, thus balancing quality of living/comfort with disease management.
Building and enforcing shape priors for segmentation of alloy micrographs

Computer simulation of metal alloys is an emerging trend in materials development. Simulated replicas of fabricated alloys are based on the segmentations of alloy micrographs. Therefore, accurate segmentation of visible precipitates is paramount to simulation accuracy. Since the shape and size of precipitates are key indicators of physical alloy properties, automated segmentation algorithms must account for abundant prior information of precipitate shape. We present a new method for constructing a prior enforcing rectangular shape which can be applied within a min-cut framework for maximum a-posteriori segmentation.
Proton-Antiproton Annihilation in Protonium

Using the model for the nucleon-antinucleon interaction proposed by Ball and Chew, we have calculated the capture rates for the various eigenstates of protonium---the bound system of a proton and an antiproton. It is found that these rates depend sensitively on spin, isotopic spin, and total angular momentum eigenvalues of protonium, not just on orbital angular momentum, as is usually assumed. The average capture rates for the $\mathrm{nS}$ and $\mathrm{nP}$ states are $5.3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\frac{{10}^{18}}{{n}^{3}}$ and $4.3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\frac{{10}^{14}}{{n}^{3}}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, respectively. This $P$ capture rate is two orders of magnitude larger than in the case of the (${K}^{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{-}p$) atom because of the relatively long range of interaction in the Ball-Chew model. The problem of the Stark effect collisions, studied by Day, Snow, and Sucher in connection with the (${K}^{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{-}p$) atom, is therefore re-investigated and at the same time we have considered certain important effects which were not considered by these authors. Rough calculations indicate that for protonium also the capture will take place predominantly from $S$ states.
Neuroglial response to sciatic neurectomy. I. Light microscopy and autoradiography

The response of oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, microglia, and pericytes to sciatic neurectomy in young adult rats was studied from 1μ Epon sections for quantitative cell counts and autoradiography. Two hours after an IP injection of 3H-thymidine animals were killed by aldehyde perfusion at survival periods of 2, 4, 7, and 14 days postoperative (dpo). At 2 dpo there was a marked increase in the number of labeled microglial cell nuclei and mitotic figures on the experimental side. This activation appeared to involve most of the “resting” microglia, which comprise about 6% of the total neuroglia in the normal ventral horn. A significant numerical increase (over fourfold) in perineuronal and total microglia was seen at 4 dpo followed by a gradual decline. Other findings include minimal chromatolysis in ventral horn neurons, contralateral effects, and a slight proliferative response in and around the central canal. A response was not apparent in the other neuroglia, pericytes, or mononuclear leukocytes. The relationship of the microglia to the multipotential glia of neuroectodermal origin is considered.
Quantum Gravity Corrections to the One Loop Scalar Self-Mass during Inflation

We compute the one loop corrections from quantum gravity to the self-mass-squared of a massless, minimally coupled scalar on a locally de Sitter background. The calculation was done using dimensional regularization and renormalized by subtracting fourth order BPHZ (Bogoliubov-Parasiuk-Hepp-Zimmerman) counterterms. Our result should determine whether quantum gravitational loop corrections can significantly alter the dynamics of a scalar inflaton.
A new future for carbohydrate fuel cells

Abstract The development of renewable energy sources to reduce our dependence on limiting fossil fuel reserves continues to be a critical research initiative. Utilizing the abundant high energy content of carbohydrates contained in biomass (cellulose and hemicellulose) must be considered to be an important contribution to our overall energy budget. Carbohydrate-derived furan-based liquid fuels and especially ethanol are becoming important added components forming gasoline blends to lower overall fossil fuel use. Alternate renewable energy processes that more efficiently use the carbohydrate energy content are desirable and would lower the overall carbohydrate input requirement for energy production. Recently, new catalysts have shown the feasibility of efficiently transporting the 24 electrons in glucose to fuel cell electrodes making possible the direct conversion of the stored energy in carbohydrates into electricity with the benign formation of carbonate and water as products. The conversion of glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel production, into three-carbon carbohydrates provides another opportunity to produce electricity from an abundant carbohydrate source. New developments in catalyst systems promise to make carbohydrate fuel cells an important part of future energy strategies.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the beaver (Castor canadensis).

We have isolated and characterized 10 microsatellite loci in the beaver (Castor canadensis). Sixty individuals from southern and central Illinois were screened at each locus. All loci exhibited moderate levels of polymorphism, ranging from five to 13 alleles per locus with average heterozygosity ranging from 0.317 to 0.867. Locus Cca5 deviated significantly from HWE (P < 0.001). The locus pair Cca4/Cca5 was shown to be in linkage disequilibrium in southern Illinois, but not in the central Illinois population. The remaining eight loci will be useful in investigations of mating and kinship patterns in beaver populations in Illinois.
Church-state relations in Kenya: health issues.

Abstract Modern health practices were introduced to much of the Third World by Christian missionaries—the institutions which they founded provide a substantial part of the total health care systems in Africa today. The increasingly important role of the state has led to church-state conflict over the financing and development of health-promoting facilities in Africa. This paper examines the various factors affecting health policies in Kenya, with special reference to the role of church-related health organizations.
Stimulation of oligodendroglial proliferation and maturation by interleukin-2.

There exists considerable evidence that the growth of glial cells can be influenced by T-cell-derived lymphokines and monokines. Astrocytes proliferate in the presence of mitogen- or antigen-stimulated T-cell supernatants1–3, supernatants from human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV)-transformed T cells3, and purified human interleukin-1 (IL-1; ref. 4). Oligodendrocytes proliferate and differentiate when incubated with supernatants from mitogen-activated or HTLV-transformed T cells3. In addition, we have recently purified a T-cell-derived lymphokine of relative molecular mass 30,000, termed glial growth promoting factor (GGPF), which specifically stimulates the proliferation of oligodendrocytes5. The traditional role of interleukins 1 and 2 is in the initiation, propagation and regulation of the immune response6. IL-1, released by a variety of cells including monocytes, stimulates T cells to produce IL-2 (ref. 7); IL-2 in turn induces the expansion of T cells that is critical for immune responsiveness. Recently, IL-2 has been shown to induce B-cell proliferation8,9 and immunoglobulin secretion10, indicating that its action is not restricted to T cells. We now report that recombinant human IL-2 influences the growth of glial cells—specifically, the proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocytes. IL-2 may have a role in the inflammatory neural lesions of multiple sclerosis patients and in the growth of brain glia during injury or disease.
Picking up the gauntlet: Bank competition in China after World Trade Organization entry

Ericsson (Nanjing)'s transfer from Chinese banks to Citibank (China) in March 2002 shocked the Chinese banking community and forced an early awareness of the realities of international competition in China's banking industry. Ericsson moved due to the lack of factoring by Chinese banks and the ability of foreign banks to offer more services specialised to international accounts. Chinese banks have no factoring experience, no national credit checking, and operate under government-mandated separation of banking and insurance industries. Foreign banks operate in an environment favouring service integrations and they have extensive experience offering single-source banking, insurance and investment services. Currently, Chinese banks are required to service the unprofitable rural areas of China while foreign competitors concentrate on the more lucrative urban areas. With increasing trade and mounting competitive forces resulting from the 2001 entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO), Chinese banking regulators are expected to ease regulations on Chinese banks. Although penetration of Chinese banks into the foreign competitors' niche may be currently untenable, Chinese banks can capitalise on state-owned and local firms in anticipation of growing with the Chinese economy. These intimate associations allow Chinese banks to assess lending risks to locals and use a common communication and cultural basis to service the market effectively. To protect this rural market, a Chinese central bank is forming to unify the domestic credit card settlements and provide a national backbone for intrabank communications, risk management and market analysis. Chinese banks must introduce Western-style banking services and operations, follow national enterprises abroad and increase international commerce capabilities through cooperative alliances.
Joan of Arc, the Church, and the Papacy, 1429-1920

In modern times, Joan of Arc has been depicted as a victim of the medieval Church, a saint who has been used to justify various and opposing ideologies, or a feminist icon. The author argues against oversimplifications, for Joan lived in a political world of intrigue, court factions, and complex dynastic relationships that provided the backdrop for her military successes and the cause of her downfall. In her own time, Joan was viewed not as a saint, but first and foremost as a soldier and leader fighting for the French cause.
Defining a role for Sonic hedgehog pathway activation in desmoplastic medulloblastoma by identifying GLI1 target genes

A subgroup of medulloblastomas shows constitutive activation of the Sonic hedgehog pathway with expression of GLI1. We identified the subset of GLI1 transforming target genes specifically expressed in medulloblastomas by comparing GLI1 targets in RK3E cells transformed by GLI1 with the gene expression profile of Sonic hedgehog signature medulloblastomas. We identified 1,823 genes whose expression was altered more than 2-fold in 2 independent RK3E + GLI1 cell lines. We identified 25 whose expression was altered similarly in medulloblastomas expressing GLI1. We identified potential GLI binding elements in the regulatory regions of 10 of these genes, confirmed that GLI1 binds the regulatory regions and activates transcription of select genes, and showed that GLI1 directly represses transcription of Krox-20. We identified upregulation of CXCR4, a chemokine receptor that plays roles in the proliferation and migration of granule cell neuron precursors during development, supporting the concept that reinitiation of developmental programs may contribute to medulloblastoma tumorigenesis. In addition, the targets suggest a pathway through which GLI1 may ultimately affect medulloblastoma cell proliferation, survival and genomic stability by converging on p53, SGK1, MGMT and NTRK2. We identify a p53 mutation in RK3E + GLI1 cells, suggesting that p53 mutations may sometimes shift the balance toward dysregulated tumor cell survival.
Using computer-extracted image features for modeling of error-making patterns in detection of mammographic masses among radiology residents.

Purpose: Mammography is the most widely accepted and utilized screening modality for early breast cancer detection. Providing high quality mammography education to radiology trainees is essential, since excellent interpretation skills are needed to ensure the highest benefit of screening mammography for patients. The authors have previously proposed a computer-aided education system based on trainee models. Those models relate human-assessed image characteristics to trainee error. In this study, the authors propose to build trainee models that utilize features automatically extracted from images using computer vision algorithms to predict likelihood of missing each mass by the trainee. This computer vision-based approach to trainee modeling will allow for automatically searching large databases of mammograms in order to identify challenging cases for each trainee. Methods: The authors’ algorithm for predicting the likelihood of missing a mass consists of three steps. First, a mammogram is segmented into air, pectoral muscle, fatty tissue, dense tissue, and mass using automated segmentation algorithms. Second, 43 features are extracted using computer vision algorithms for each abnormality identified by experts. Third, error-making models (classifiers) are applied to predict the likelihood of trainees missing the abnormality based on the extracted features. The models are developed individually for each trainee using his/her previous reading data. The authors evaluated the predictive performance of the proposed algorithm using data from a reader study in which 10 subjects (7 residents and 3 novices) and 3 experts read 100 mammographic cases. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) methodology was applied for the evaluation. Results: The average area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the error-making models for the task of predicting which masses will be detected and which will be missed was 0.607 (95% CI,0.564-0.650). This value was statistically significantly different from 0.5 (p < 0.0001). For the 7 residents only, the AUC performance of the models was 0.590 (95% CI,0.537-0.642) and was also significantly higher than 0.5 (p = 0.0009). Therefore, generally the authors’ models were able to predict which masses were detected and which were missed better than chance. Conclusions: The authors proposed an algorithm that was able to predict which masses will be detected and which will be missed by each individual trainee. This confirms existence of error-making patterns in the detection of masses among radiology trainees. Furthermore, the proposed methodology will allow for the optimized selection of difficult cases for the trainees in an automatic and efficient manner.
Melt spinning pitch-based carbon fibers

Abstract Although pitch-based carbon fibers can be melt spun, the flow characteristics of mesophase pitch make it extremely difficult to process. Mesophase pitch, like many fluids, can be non-Newtonian, but its viscosity is considerably more temperature sensitive than most melt-spun materials. In the present study, energy and force balances are applied to demonstrate the influence of process variables and material properties on the spinability of mesophase. The results indicate that the extreme temperature dependence of the viscosity of mesophase can create filament stresses during melt spinning that are near the ultimate tensile strength of the filament. Therefore, the control of both temperature and heattransfer rate is extremely critical during the formation of pitch-based carbon fibers.
The scarless heart and the MRL mouse

The ability to regenerate tissues and limbs in its most robust form is seen in many non-mammalian species. The serendipitous discovery that the MRL mouse has a profound capacity for regeneration in some ways rivalling the classic newt and axolotl species raises the possibility that humans, too, may have an innate regenerative ability. The adult MRL mouse regrows cartilage, skin, hair follicles and myocardium with near perfect fidelity and without scarring. This is seen in the ability to close through-and-through ear holes, which are generally used for lifelong identification of mice, and the anatomic and functional recovery of myocardium after a severe cryo-injury. We present histological, biochemical and genetic data indicating that the enhanced breakdown of scar-like tissue may be an underlying factor in the MRL regenerative response. Studies as to the source of the cells in the regenerating MRL tissue are discussed. Such studies appear to support multiple mechanisms for cell replacement.
Preparation and properties of some poly(alpha‐olefin sulfones)

The properties of alpha-olefin–sulfur dioxide copolymer prepared from the series C8–C18 (even-numbered) alpha-olefins and sulfur dioxide are described. These polymers undergo clean thermal degradation and have high permeabilities to oxygen and carbon dioxide. Maximum permeabilities, maximum per cent elongation at the yield point, and minimum density are obtained with the C16-based polymer. An explanation is proposed involving a competitive plasticizing/side chain crystallization effect.
Effect of Splenectomy on Response to Pituitary Material and the Question of the Antihormone

SummarySplenectomy in rats is without effect on the ovarian and uterine weight response to injections of homozoic pituitary material. Splenectomized rats, however, show greater response when treated with pituitary material from a heterozoic source than similarly treated controls. This lends further support to the contention that the state of refractoriness which develops after prolonged treatment with hormone preparations is immunological in nature.
The structure of head-injured patients' neurobehavioural complaints: a preliminary study.

Psychological functioning in 55 severely head-injured individuals was investigated in order to extend findings on the long-term nature of psychological sequelae after closed head injury. Results showed that head-injured subjects reported numerous psychological deficits many years post-injury, were psychologically distressed by their own report (Brief Symptom Inventory) and that of care-giving relatives (Katz Adjustment Scale–Relatives Version), and also exhibited a different pattern of coping from that of a normative group. A three-factor model of residual psychological complaints that contained a 'General Complaints' factor, a 'Somatization' factor and a 'Severity' factor was identified; this showed some similarity to a model proposed by van Zomeren and van den Burg (1985). Results indicate support for the 'coping hypothesis' of post-injury psychological deficits, although effects consistent with a 'gradations of severity' hypothesis were also present.
Worker nutrition and division of labour in honeybees

We determined whether there is an association between nutritional state (as indicated by stored abdominal lipid amounts) and division of labour in the honeybee, Apis mellifera. We found that foragers (typically older bees) had lower lipid amounts than did nurses (typically young bees). Results from experimental colonies that contained nurses and foragers of the same age showed that the lipid decline in foragers was not attributable to age. Analysis of bees with different amounts of foraging experience revealed little effect of the act of foraging on lipid stores. Lipid levels were low even on the first day of foraging, suggesting that the decline in stored lipid precedes the onset of foraging. We also found that bees that revert from foraging to nursing did not regain their lipid stores, indicating that high lipid stores are not required to sustain brood care behaviour. This demonstration of a robust association between reduced lipid stores and the transition to foraging suggests that worker nutritional state may be involved in the regulation of division of labour in honeybee colonies.
Size effect on surface structural relaxation kinetics of silica glass sample

It is known that surface structural relaxation takes place more rapidly than bulk structural relaxation, especially in the presence of water vapor. The surface structural relaxation kinetics of the silica glass fiber and plates was compared at 950 °C and the surface structural relaxation kinetics of silica glass fiber was found to be faster than that of the silica glass plate, even though the composition and initial fictive temperatures of the samples were the same. The observed difference of the surface structural relaxation kinetics between silica glass fiber and silica glass plate can be accounted for using a diffusion equation with time-dependent surface concentration. The analysis indicates that there is a general size effect on the surface structural relaxation kinetics, with smaller sized samples exhibiting faster relaxation kinetics.
Timing of plutonism and deformation in the White Mountains of eastern California

New mapping and U-Pb zircon geochronology help establish the timing of contractional deformation and magmatism in the White Mountains of California. In the Redding Canyon area of the west-central White Mountains, Mesozoic deformation characterized by east-directed movement along reverse faults as well as recumbent folding was followed by development of upright folds with axes that plunge moderately to the north. This later folding event produced penetrative, vertical, north-striking axial-planar cleavage that is present along much of the western flank of the range. Deformed units include folded and/or boudinaged diorite dikes (ca. 165 Ma; U-Pb zircon) that contain the later penetrative cleavage. The cleavage is clearly cut by the Redding Canyon pluton (ca. 164 Ma; U-Pb zircon), demonstrating that at least some of the intense deformation preserved in the area is Middle Jurassic and correlative with the East Sierran thrust system identified elsewhere in California. Dates for the Beer Creek pluton (ca. 179 Ma; U-Pb zircon) and the Sage Hen Flat pluton (ca. 175 Ma; U-Pb zircon), which cut deformation in their wall rocks, suggest that East Sierran thrust deformation did not propagate as far eastward as these plutons at the present level of exposure. The new dates also cast doubt on the presence of any Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous plutonism in the White Mountains. Throughout the east-central Sierra Nevada and White Mountains, high-precision U-Pb zircon geochronology is resolving significant plutonism into two short-lived events that occurred at ca. 180–165 Ma and 102–86 Ma.
PATTERNS OF RECURRENCE IN ADENOCARCINOMA OF THE RECTUM AND RECTOSIGMOID TREATED WITH SURGERY ALONE: IMPLICATIONS IN TREATMENT PLANNING WITH ADJUVANT RADIATION THERAPY

This is an analysis of 140 patients with adenocarcinoma of the rectum and rectosigmoid treated with surgery alone at the University of Florida between May 1959 and April 1976. Patients in the study group had a complete resection, as determined by the surgeon and the pathologist, and no evidence of distant metastasis at the completion of the operation. There is a 5 year minimum follow-up. Local-regional recurrence rates were noted to vary with histologic grade, length of the lesion, and pathologic stage. Approximately 60% of local-regional and distant recurrences were noted by 2 years after treatment, and 92-95% were noted by 5 years. Evaluation of patient status at 5 years revealed that 0% (Stage CIS), 0% (A), 17% (B1), 13% (B2), 17% (C1), and 28% (C2) had developed local-regional recurrence without demonstrable distant metastasis. Complications and crude 5 year survival rates are presented and current treatment modifications discussed.
Regulation of intestinal health and disease by innate lymphoid cells

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a recently appreciated immune cell population that is constitutively found in the healthy mammalian gastrointestinal (GI) tract and associated lymphoid tissues. Translational studies have revealed that alterations in ILC populations are associated with GI disease in patients, such as inflammatory bowel disease, HIV infection and colon cancer, suggesting a potential role for ILCs in either maintaining intestinal health or promoting intestinal disease. Mouse models identified that ILCs have context-dependent protective and pathologic functions either during the steady state, or following infection, inflammation or tissue damage. This review will discuss the associations of altered intestinal ILCs with human GI diseases, and the functional consequences of targeting ILCs in mouse models. Collectively, our current understanding of ILCs suggests that the development of novel therapeutic strategies to modulate ILC responses will be of significant clinical value to prevent or treat human GI diseases.
Interventions for HIV and Hepatitis C Virus Infections in Recreational Drug Users

Recreational drug use and infections are 2 of the major problems in the world today. Both cause serious health problems, such as immunologic impairment leading to opportunistic infections and medical comorbidity, including medical complications associated with, for example, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. Effective and safe interventions (prevention and pharmacologic treatment) are possible for drug-dependent patients with single or dual infections with HIV and HCV if patients in drug treatment programs are closely monitored for adherence and compliance to treatment regimens.
The difference between Doppler and real radial velocity in the single volume scattering

The scattering of electromagnetic waves by turbulence is considered. It is shown that the Doppler velocity (the ratio of Doppler shift and Bragg wave number) includes two terms. The first term is the mean radial velocity in the scattering volume. The second term, which the authors call the correlation velocity, is caused by a correlation between the fluctuations of velocity and of refractive index. The correlation velocity is proportional to the imaginary part of the Bragg wave vector component of the three-dimensional spatial cross spectrum of refractive index and radial wind velocity. In the electromagnetic case in the atmosphere, the correlation velocity provides information about the combination of humidity and heat fluxes. In the acoustic case, it provides information about the flux of sensible heat (in the atmosphere) or about some combination of salinity and heat fluxes (in water). In situ measurements of the temperature, humidity, and wind fluctuations in the atmosphere are analyzed to estimate the magnitude of the correlation velocity.
Zinc Finger Transcription Factor INSM1 Interrupts Cyclin D1 and CDK4 Binding and Induces Cell Cycle Arrest

INSM1 is a zinc finger transcription factor that plays an important role in pancreatic β-cell development. To further evaluate its role in cell fate determination, we investigated INSM1 effects on cell cycle function. The cyclin box of cyclin D1 is essential for INSM1 binding. Competitive pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation revealed that INSM1 binding to cyclin D1 interrupts its association with CDK4 and induces hypophosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein. An inducible Tet-on system was established in Cos-7 and Panc-1 cells. Using serum starvation, we synchronized the cell cycle and subsequently induced cell cycle progression by serum stimulation. Comparison of the INSM1 induction group with the noninduced control group, INSM1 ectopic expression causes cell cycle arrest, whereas the INSM1-mediated cell cycle arrest could be reversed by cyclin D1 and CDK4 overexpression. The proline-rich N-terminal portion of INSM1 is required for cyclin D1 binding. Mutation of proline residues abolished cyclin D1 binding and also diminished its ability to induce cell cycle arrest. Cellular proliferation of Panc-1 cells was inhibited by INSM1 overexpression demonstrated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, soft agar colony formation, as well as tumor growth in a nude mouse model. Taken together, we provide evidence to support that INSM1 binds to cyclin D1, interrupts cell cycle signaling, and inhibits cellular proliferation.
An Epizootic of Vibriosis in Ecuadorian Pond-Reared Penaeus vannamei Boone (Crustacea: Decapoda)

A massive ephtic of vibriosis, named “sindroma gaviota” (or sea gull syndrome = SGS) by local shrimp fanners, began in November 1989 and continued through May 1990 in nursery and grow-out ponds in a number of shrimp farms located in the Gulf of Guaynquil near Cunyaquil, Ecuador. The level of cumulative mortalities ranged from slight in some ponds to more than 90% in others. Examination of affected shrimp, Penaeus vannamei Boone, led to the isolation of several closely related Vibrio species. The predominant species were identified as Vibrio parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus, and V. alginolyticus using the API-NFT system. Several of the strains exhibited a transient luminescence and some were positive for urease, an unusual trait for these species. Comparisons of the antimicrobial sensitivity patterns between farm and hatchery isolates from 1989–1990 and hatchery isolates from 1987–1989 indicate that the 1989–1990 pond isolates were not of hatchery origin. The epizootic coincided with the second year of a severe drought in Ecuador. Thus, the discharge of fresh water by the Guayas River was reduced and salinities and relative nutrient concentrations were elevated in the Gulf of Guaynquil. These environmental conditions were ideal for the increased growth of the causative vibrios in the estuarine waters and are believed to be factors that contributed to the 1989–1990 SGS epizootic.
Volume and Shape Changes of Human Erythrocytes Induced by Electrical Fields

The effects of electrical fields on the shape and volume of normal and abnormal red blood cells (RBC) are discussed. If an electrical field of 2-3 kV/cm is applied to the suspension of RBC, normal biconcave erythrocytes transform into spherocytes and their mean volume will increase from the usual volume of 90 µm3 to 160-170/µm3 in several minutes. There are two possible explanations for this phenomenon. The one is the membrane perforation by the potential induced by electrical field and subsequent influx of water. The other Is the mechanical surface traction caused by applied fields. The second mechanism will be discussed mainly in this paper.
There Will Be Growth in the Spring: How Credible are Forecasts of Recovery?

Forecasters are currently echoing Chauncey Gardner’s words: “There will be growth in the spring.” Or certainly by the summer. Are such forecasts credible? Yes. This article presents evidence that private sector forecasters have done a reasonably good job of forecasting recoveries in industrialised countries over the 1990s. Since recessions in these countries have tended to last under a year, forecasting a recovery in the following year has turned out to be a pretty good bet. However, a few recessions do end up lasting longer than a year: when that happens, the evidence suggests that forecasters are caught flat-footed.