cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU‐FF‐T‐76: Implementation and Initial Testing of a Monte Carlo Based Algorithm for IMRT Inverse Treatment Planning

Purpose: To report on the implementation of a Monte Carlo(MC) based algorithm and to compare this system with a convolution/superposition‐based algorithm (CS) for IMRT inverse planning. Method and Materials: The DPM MC code was modified using a fluence matrix approach to perform beamlet calculations for IMRT planning. The code was integrated within our in‐house inverse treatment planning system and compared with the TPS (CS) algorithm. Initial testing involved the computation of 6 MV beamlet depth doses for 1×1, 2×2 and 10×10 (100, 1 cm beamlets) in a water phantom. MC and CS calculations were then performed for an example lung treatment plan to examine dosimetric differences between these algorithms. MC statistical uncertainties were on average less than 2% (in the depth doses) for all beamlet calculations. Optimization of beamlet doses is carried out using simulated annealing with quadratic cost functions derived from our clinical protocols. Results: Beamlet depth doses calculated with MC and CS are in good absolute agreement for field sizes larger than 2×2 cm2. Significant differences exist for 1×1 beamlets because CS is unable to accurately model lateral electron transport. For the example lung plan, much smaller differences were found. This is likely due to the fact that with larger field sizes (∼10×10 cm in the example), effects of lateral electron scattering are much less pronounced. Conclusion: We have implemented a fluence matrix method to perform MC‐based beamlet calculations for IMRT planning. Initial testing for an example lung plan and field sizes larger than 2×2, revealed good agreement between MC and CS. However, larger differences were found for 1×1 beamlets due to lateral electron transport issues. Testing is currently being performed for a variety of treatment plans, spanning a range of field sizes to thoroughly investigate dosimetric differences between MC and CS in IMRT planning. Supported by NIH P01‐CA59827
Toward an integrative model of affect regulation: Applications to social-psychological research.

This article describes a model of affect regulation that integrates research and theory from psychoanalytic, cognitive, behavioral, and evolutionary perspectives on personality. It proposes that feelings are mechanisms for the selection and retention of behavioral and mental responses. Individuals select behaviors, coping strategies, and defensive strategies that regulate aversive affective states and maximize pleasurable ones. These affect regulation procedures are encoded as procedural knowledge and are activated under specific circumstances. Some regulation strategies are affect-specific, whereas others can be used to regulate multiple affects of similar valence. These procedures are often activated to resolve discrepancies between perceived and desired states of the self, significant others, and external circumstances. The utility of the model is demonstrated through a reinterpretation and integration of a number of disparate traditions in social psychology, including many of the classic experiments on social influence, in which the processing of emotionally relevant social information plays a substantial part.
Measuring the Rate Constants of Ca2+ Indicators

Fluorescent Ca(2+) indicators are widely used to measure the concentration of free Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](free)) in biological processes. To determine the exact kinetics of changes in [Ca(2+)](free) and the processes underlying these changes (e.g., Ca(2+) binding to Ca(2+)-binding proteins), it is necessary to know the exact binding properties of the indicator used. Here, we describe how to determine the binding rate constants (k(on) and k(off)) of Ca(2+) indicators.
Implementing Supplier Codes of Conduct in Global Supply Chains: Process Explanations from Theoretic and Empirical Perspectives

Western buying companies impose Supplier Codes of Conduct (SCC) on their suppliers in developing countries; however, many suppliers cannot fully comply with SCC and some of them even cheat in SCC. In this research, we link contract characteristics – price pressure, production complexity, contract duration – to the likelihood of supplier’s commitment to SCC through a mediating process: how the buying companies govern their suppliers. Our structural equation model analysis shows that the hierarchy/relational norms governance is a perfect mediator of contract characteristics’ effects on the likelihood of supplier’s commitment; the market governance, an insignificant one. The managerial implications are provided for successfully implementing SCC in global supply chains.
Separation of metallocene enantiomers by liquid chromatography: chiral recognition via cyclodextrin bonded phases

The LC separation of 13 enantiomeric pairs of ferrocene, ruthenocene, and osmocene analogues is described. Recently developed ..beta..-cyclodextrin bonded columns, which contain no interfering nitrogen or sulfur linkages, are particularly well suited to the separation of these compounds. The effect of solute structure and size on resolution and separation efficiency is examined. Both the application of this system and the mechanism of separation are discussed. 33 references, 3 figures, 1 table.
Visually and Auditorily Paced Keytapping Performance During Synchronous, Decreased, and Delayed Auditory and Visual Feedback

Twenty female subjects tapped on a tapping key to programmed visual pacing stimuli under synchronous auditory feedback, delayed auditory feedback, and decreased sensory feedback conditions and also...
The role of figural organization in city imageability: An information processing analysis

Abstract The purpose of this study was to apply experimental methods and theoretical formulations from the information processing metaphor in experimental psychology to explore some of the underlying theoretical premises in Lynch's conception of imageability. Specifically, the study attempted to separate and assess the effects of the salience and organization of schematic maps' path networks on the imageability of the maps. Findings support Lynch's contention that organization is critical to a highly imageable urban environment. At the same time, our results go beyond Lynch by suggesting that identifiability or visual emphasis alone, when unorganized, may detract from rather than aid city legibility. Results are interpreted in terms of limitations in cognitive processing capacity and the cognitive resources required by the map learning task.
Role of MIB1 in Predicting Survival in Patients with Glioblastomas

Background: Histologic immunomarkers of cell cycle proteins have been utilized for prognosis in high-grade astrocytic tumors. One such marker, MIB1, an antibody immunoreactive throughout the cell cycle, is predictive of more aggressive disease and poorer prognosis in astrocytomas. An independent role of MIB1 analysis for survival prediction and clinical management within histologic grades has not been clearly proven.
Characterization of noise in digital photographs for image processing

Many conventional image processing algorithms such as noise filtering, sharpening and deblurring, assume a noise model of Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) with constant standard deviation throughout the image. However, this noise model does not hold for images captured from typical imaging devices such as digital cameras, scanners and camera-phones. The raw data from the image sensor goes through several image processing steps such as demosaicing, color correction, gamma correction and JPEG compression, and thus, the noise characteristics in the final JPEG image deviates significantly from the widely-used AWGN noise model. Thus, when the image processing algorithms are applied to the digital photographs, they may not provide optimal image quality after the image processing due to the inaccurate noise model. In this paper, we propose a noise model that better fits the images captured from typical imaging devices and describe a simple method to extract necessary parameters directly from the images without any prior knowledge of imaging pipeline algorithms implemented in the imaging devices. We show experimental results of the noise parameters extracted from the raw and processed digital images.
Nitric oxide in rostral ventrolateral medulla regulates cardiac-sympathetic reflexes: role of synthase isoforms.

Our previous studies have shown that nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS)-containing neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) are activated during cardiac sympathoexcitatory reflexes (Refs. ...
LONG-TERM NEUROPROTECTION BY MATERNALLY-ADMINISTERED MAGNESIUM SULFATE(MgSO 4 ) IN PRETERM INFANTS IS RELATED TO INITIAL POST-NATAL SERUM MAGNESIUM LEVELS AND TO THE PRESENCE OF PRECEDING GRADE III/ IV INTRA

INTRODUCTION: The sole case-control trial delineating a reduction in cerebral palsy (CP) by maternally-administered MgSO4 did not address the effect of Gr III/IV ICH or CPVL. We have described a similar neuroprotective effect of MgSO4 in preventing long-term cerebral injury in preterm infants (CP, as well as scores > 2 SD's below the population mean on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development [BSID]). We speculated that the degree of neuroprotection may be related to maternal or initial neonatal serum magnesium (Mg) levels, to the duration of maternal therapy, or to the prior presence of Grade III or IV ICH or CPVL.METHODS: The mothers of 61 ventilated pre-term infants (< 33 wks GA) received MgSO4 prior to delivery. 39 of the surviving infants were old enough (mean age 27.7 mo.) to undergo neurodevelopmental testing and physical assessment for findings of CP. 32/39 had serum Mg levels drawn on day 1 and comprise the study population. We ascertained the duration of maternal MgSO4 therapy and their serum Mg levels prior to delivery. RESULTS:Table CONCLUSION: Initial neonatal serum Mg levels in preterm infants, as well as the preceding presence of Gr III/IV ICH or CPVL, directly correlate with long-term neuroprotection. The degree of neuroprotection by maternal MgSO4 beyond prevention of Gr III/IV ICH or CPVL is unclear.
Decoherence-Free Subspaces for Quantum Computation

Decoherence in quantum computers is formulated within the semigroup approach. The error generators are identified with the generators of a Lie algebra. This allows for a comprehensive description which includes as a special case the frequently assumed spin-boson model. A generic condition is presented for errorless quantum computation: decoherence-free subspaces are spanned by those states which are annihilated by all the generators. It is shown that these subspaces are stable to perturbations and, moreover, that universal quantum computation is possible within them.
Experiments on quantized circulation in superfluid 3He

This paper provides a brief description of recent experiments measuring the fluid circulation in 3He. In the B phase, the circulation around a 16 μm diameter wire is found to be quantized in units of h/2 m3. Possible future experiments are also described.
Enzymic activities associated with the induction of chondrogenesis in vitro

Chick embryo somites, Stages 16–17, when grown in vitro with embryonic notochord or spinal cord, form cartilage, in contrast to somites grown in the absence of notochord or spinal cord. In a study of this system of embryonic induction, cell-free extracts of both types of cultures were examined for the presence of ATP-sulfurylase (ATP:sulfate adenylyl-transferase, EC 2.7.7.4) and adenosine-5′-phosphosulfate kinase (ATP:adenylylsulfate 3′-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.25). Both enzymes were demonstrated in the somites stimulated with notochord by the ability of the enzymic preparations to form 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate from ATP, Mg2+ and 35SO42-. Formation of 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate was not detected in somites cultured without notochord. 3′-Phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate generated by extracts of cartilage-forming somites was characterized by electrophoretic and chromatographic behavior, lability to mild acid, ability to serve as substrate with rabbit-liver sulfokinase (3′-phosphoadenylylsulfate: phenol sulfotransferase, EC 2.8.2.1), and the formation of adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate after incubation with alkaline phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.1). Cell-free extracts were also prepared from tissues which were isolated from the embryo but not cultured. These extracts of somites, notochords and spinal cords, and mesonephri had no demonstrable activity for ATP-sulfurylase and adenosine-5′-phosphosulfate kinase. Cell-free preparations from the whole trunk, however, showed considerable activity for these enzymes.
Preliminary observations on MRI correlates of driving independence and performance in persons with heart failure

PURPOSE/Aim: Heart failure patients often require assistance with activities of daily living, including driving. Recent work shows heart failure patients commit more errors on a simulated driving task relative to controls and cognitive dysfunction contributed to these errors. We sought to extend these findings by examining whether structural magnetic resonance imaging indices correlate with driving independence and performance in heart failure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 49 heart failure patients underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging and performed a battery assessing attention/executive function and memory. A self-report instrument was used to assess independence in transportation. A subset of heart failure participants (N = 8) completed a validated driving simulator scenario. RESULTS: Among the larger sample (N = 49), reduced gray matter correlated with greater dependence in transportation and worse attention/executive function; in turn, worse attention/executive function predicted greater assistance with transportation (p CONCLUSIONS: Reduced structural brain integrity is associated with poorer reported and simulated driving in persons with heart failure. Larger prospective studies that employ on-road testing are needed to clarify brain changes and risk for unsafe driving in heart failure. Language: en
Conventional and multiple deck boundary layer approach to second and third grade fluids

Abstract A general analysis of boundary layers of second and third grade fluids are made in which the conventional as well as the multiple deck structures are investigated. It is shown that for second grade fluids only conventional two deck structure exists and a multiple deck boundary layer is impossible. For the third grade fluids, three conventional boundary layers are formulated. In the first one, we retain all the terms whereas in the second one the viscous, and in the third one, second grade terms come out to be negligible compared to other terms. A similarity solution is presented for the third case. Under some restricted conditions, it is shown that quadruple decks exist for the third grade fluids. For the lower deck equations to be matched with the middle deck equations, a decaying solution should exist, and this further requires that 2α 1 + α 2 = 0 where α 1 and α 2 are the material moduli for third grade fluids.
Nanopore detection using channel current cheminformatics

A novel detector is used for analysis of single DNA molecules. The detector is based on current blockade measurements through a single, nanometer-scale, α-hemolysin ion channel. The biologically based alpha-hemolysin channel self-assembles in lipid bilayers, permitting highly reproducible experiments with Angstrom resolution. In previous work the spectrum of dsDNA blockade states could be explained in terms of the dsDNA-protein binding kinetics, and dsDNA terminus fraying (bond dissociation) kinetics. Results presented here strengthen the hypothesis that conformational dynamics can be observed as well, when the channel-captured dsDNA end is in an unbound state. Feature discovery methods: include a time-domain finite state automaton (FSA), a wavelet domain FSA, and a Hidden Markov Model (HMM). Classifier feature extraction methods: includes a time-domain FSA for signal acquisition and a generalized HMM with EM for features extraction. Classification method: Support Vector Machines (SVMs) are used with novel kernel designs. Kinetic feature extraction tool: a time-domain FSA projects current observations to a (small) set of blockade states. Those states are provided by the generalized HMM analysis. Noise sources limit the resolution of the nanopore device, and its multiclass scaling capabilities, and this is discussed in the context of ongoing refinements to the device.
Respiratory patterns in crocodilian reptiles.

Abstract This paper describes the typical respiratory pattern of caimans and alligators and shows the great range of respiratory activity even in quiet, isolated caimans, with average ventilatory periods varying from 6–22 sec in length and consisting of an average of from 1–5 breaths, and nonventilatory periods averaging from 13 sec-3 min in length. The average tidal volume for juvenile caimans was 12 cc/kg. Data presented also emphasize the great variations seen in individual animals from one day to another and even from one ventilatory cycle to another. The possible functions of the conspicuous semirhythmic movement of the gular region during the nonventilatory period were examined with the conclusion that little or no respiratory function could be served thereby, supporting the earlier suggestion that the chief, or possibly sole, function consists in drawing in air for olfactory analysis, i.e., sniffing.
Research on biracial and multiracial identity development: Overview and synthesis

This chapter presents an overview of theories that have been used to describe identity development of biracial and multiracial college students.
Patients' values for health states associated with hepatitis C and physicians' estimates of those values.

Patients’ values for health states associated with hepatitis c and physicians’ estimates of those values
Stem Cell Characteristics of Amniotic Epithelial Cells

Amniotic epithelial cells develop from the epiblast by 8 days after fertilization and before gastrulation, opening the possibility that they might maintain the plasticity of pregastrulation embryo cells. Here we show that amniotic epithelial cells isolated from human term placenta express surface markers normally present on embryonic stem and germ cells. In addition, amniotic epithelial cells express the pluripotent stem cell-specific transcription factors octamer-binding protein 4 (Oct-4) and nanog. Under certain culture conditions, amniotic epithelial cells form spheroid structures that retain stem cell characteristics. Amniotic epithelial cells do not require other cell-derived feeder layers to maintain Oct-4 expression, do not express telomerase, and are nontumorigenic upon transplantation. Based on immunohistochemical and genetic analysis, amniotic epithelial cells have the potential to differentiate to all three germ layers--endoderm (liver, pancreas), mesoderm (cardiomyocyte), and ectoderm (neural cells) in vitro. Amnion derived from term placenta after live birth may be a useful and noncontroversial source of stem cells for cell transplantation and regenerative medicine.
CO2 migration in saline aquifers. Part 1. Capillary trapping under slope and groundwater flow

Injection of carbon dioxide (CO2) into geological formations is widely regarded as a promising tool for reducing global atmospheric CO2 emissions. To evaluate injection scenarios, estimate reservoir capacity and assess leakage risks, an accurate understanding of the subsurface spreading and migration of the plume of mobile CO2 is essential. Here, we present a complete solution to a theoretical model for the subsurface migration of a plume of CO2 due to natural groundwater flow and aquifer slope, and subject to residual trapping. The results show that the interplay of these effects leads to non-trivial behaviour in terms of trapping efficiency. The analytical nature of the solution offers insight into the physics of CO2 migration, and allows for rapid, basin-specific capacity estimation. We use the solution to explore the parameter space via the storage efficiency, a macroscopic measure of plume migration. In a future study, we shall incorporate CO2 dissolution into the migration model and study the importance of dissolution relative to capillary trapping and the impact of dissolution on the storage efficiency.
Characterization of dinucleotide microsatellite markers in the parthenogenetic mourning gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)

We present 16 variable dinucleotide microsatellite markers to quantify genetic variation in the parthenogenetic gecko, Lepidodactylus lugubris. Genetic diversity at these loci was unusually high for an asexual species. Subsets of individuals produced identical genotypes across all loci. Individual loci revealed evidence of polyploidy and marked differences between observed and expected heterozygosity, indicating the presence of null alleles. These patterns conform to prior expectations based on the distant genetic relationships between the presumed sexual progenitors of L. lugubris. Comparisons with sexual relatives will be required to determine the sources of the observed genetic variation.
Transesterification of lecithin on silicic aced columns

Abstract Natural and synthetic lecithins were found to undergo transesterification and hydrolysis during chromatography on silicic acid columns. Since these reactions are of importance in relation to the detection of lysolecithin in animal tissues, some of the factors influencing the reactions were studied.
Quantitative measures for shape and size of particles

Previous efforts to define these terms are reviewed and their deficiencies noted. New quantitative measures of size and shape are proposed, based upon measurements made possible by image analysis techniques. These may be applied to both single particle and to assemblages of particles. Laboratory test results are presented to demonstrate the application of one of the new measures. Suggestions are made for further research.
Integrating Seismic and Deflection Methods to Estimate Pavement Moduli

Nondestructive testing (NDT) of pavements has made substantial progress during the past two decades. Most algorithms currently used to determine the remaining life of pavements rely on stiffness parameters determined from NDT devices. One major area of continual improvement is the reliable and rapid extraction of stiffness parameters from nondestructive field data. Two of the most common NDT methods used are the deflection and seismic-based methods. The spectral analysis of surface waves tests are the most common seismic method. In this method, time records obtained with vibration sensors are used to obtain an experimental dispersion curve, which, through an inversion procedure, provides an estimate of the elastic modulus profile of the pavement. Deflection bowls are also used to backcalculate modulus profiles of pavements through the inverse theory. The inversion processes used in both methods are complex and require either a significant computational effort or frequent operator intervention. Each method, of course, has its own limitations and strengths. To improve the accuracy of the predicted moduli, an algorithm for joint reduction of the deflection and seismic-based data has been developed. Thickness and modulus of each pavement layer are estimated in real time using artificial neural network models. An overview of a proposed joint inversion and its practical use in pavement analysis and design is presented. The joint reduction algorithm shows promise since it appears to be more robust and to yield more consistent results when compared with the process and results from each method independently.
Insect Sex Pheromones: Minor Amount of Opposite Geometrical Isomer Critical to Attraction

(Z)-II-Tetradecenyl acetate is the reported sex pheromone of European corn borer and redbanded leafroller moths. However, geometrically pure preparations of the compound are weakly attractive to these species. Presence of the E geometrical isomer in the Z is necessary for maximum sex attraction and these moths are "tuned" to respond optimally to specific proportions of Z to E. This discovery is important to considerations of moth pheromonal specificity, evolution, and in application of knowledge of the pheromones to insect-pest suppression.
Speaking With One Voice: A Strategy to Improve Communication on a Gynecology Unit

Women’s Health Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program Recently, the gynecology unit experienced several dramatic changes. Our patients, particularly the gynecologic (GYN)-oncology patients voiced their concerns about the inconsistent and often conflicting information they receive. This was evident in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores received for communication and longer length of hospital stay. The purpose in creating the One Voice project was to improve communication between all disciplines and improve the patient experience. Proposed Change The proposed change by the One Voice initiative is to have every multidisciplinary team member give a consistent message to our GYN patients. The foundation for the initiative was the establishment of a unit-based Mission and Vision statement to refocus on what is important to the team and reestablish pride and a sense of belonging. Involving the patient is the second aspect of the program. Development of an interactive care path form for patients to review and track their recovery progress promotes independence and control of their care. The third component of the program is changing how the clinical technicians conduct shift report. By incorporating the clinical technicians into the bedside handoff with the nurse and eventually with each other, communication is streamlined. Finally, the fourth component of the One Voice initiative is physician education on the care path and inclusion of the care team when physicians round. The expected outcome is increased multidisciplinary communication and patient safety. Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation Implementation of the One Voice initiative occurred over a 1-month period. Multidisciplinary focus groups made up of GYN physicians, nurses, and clinical technicians helped develop each component. Education sessions were held at shift huddles and staff meetings on the details of the One Voice program. The One Voice interactive care path tool was initiated on the GYN minimally invasive surgical patient population. The evaluation of the outcomes was very positive. Of the care paths returned from patients, 99% reported that the care path was helpful and that they were better prepared for discharge. Overall HCAHPS results exceeded the target goal for two consecutive months after implementation. Implications for Nursing Practice By a successful implementation of One Voice, nurses are able to efficiently improve care and enhance the safety of the GYN patient population through consistency in communication.
DNA content of rectal scrapings from individuals at low and high risk for the development of colorectal cancer. A feasibility study.

Scrapings of superficial rectal mucosa were collected from 31 patients with colorectal carcinoma, 66 patients with sporadic adenoma, and 53 control subjects with no personal or family history of colorectal cancer. The DNA ploidy level and proliferative patterns of each specimen were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM). A GMS index, calculated as the ratio of G2 + M:S, was found to be significantly lower in control subjects than in any of the high-risk groups studied. Aneuploidy was more prevalent in rectal scrapings from cancer patients and adenoma patients than in those from control subjects. Aneuploid cell populations were detected in apparently normal rectal scrapings from two control subjects. Some high-risk individuals (i.e., cancer patients and patients with adenomas and a family history of cancer) exhibited higher proportions of tetraploid (designated G2/M) cells and a higher G2/M:S phase ratio than control subjects. The results accumulated thus far show that the rectal scraping procedure is safe and easy to perform. Our limited findings give hope that the DNA content analysis of cells obtained by rectal scraping may eventually prove useful in mass screening for colorectal cancer risk. However, definitive evaluation will require further refinement and elaboration of analytic technique and testing on more patients at various levels of predetermined risk.
Blueprinting a Freirean Pedagogy of Imagination: Hope, Untested Feasibility, and the Dialogic Person:

Paulo Freire, a radical Brazilian educator, developed a libratory pedagogy that contributes to an important discussion on the imagination, though this aspect of his work is not emphasized in critical pedagogy and adult education literature. Theorizing a Freirean imagination as a productive educational faculty connects with the work of philosophers such Maxine Greene, Elizabeth Ellsworth and Elliot Eisner who have written on imagination in education. Through critically examining Freire's writing, this article explores what Freirean thought contributes to our understanding of the role the imagination plays in formal and non-formal education. The article also theorizes imaginal literacy and how one might develop imaginal literacy in educational settings.
Serial Perturbation of MinK in IKs Implies an α-Helical Transmembrane Span Traversing the Channel Corpus

I(Ks) channels contain four pore-forming KCNQ1 subunits and two accessory MinK subunits. MinK influences surface expression, voltage-dependence of gating, conduction, and pharmacology to yield the attributes characteristic of native channels in heart. The structure and location of the MinK transmembrane domain (TMD) remains a matter of scrutiny. As perturbation of gating analysis has correctly inferred the peripheral location and alpha-helical nature of TMDs in pore-forming subunits, the method is applied here to human MinK. Tryptophan and Asparagine substitution at 23 consecutive sites yields perturbation with alpha-helical periodicity (residues 44-56) followed by an alternating impact pattern (residues 56-63). Arginine substitution across the span suggests that as few as eight sites are occluded from aqueous solution (residues 50-57). We favor a TMD model that is alpha-helical with the external portion of the span at a lipid-protein boundary and the inner portion within the channel corpus in complex interactions.
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision Guidelines for Research Mentorship: Development and Implementation.

The authors describe guidelines endorsed by the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision for research mentorship, including characteristics of mentors and mentees. Suggestions for implementing the guidelines at the individual, program, institution, and professional levels are focused on enhancing mentoring relationships as well as mentees’ research quality and productivity. Research on research mentoring, based on the guidelines, is encouraged.
Completely intracorporeal robotic renal autotransplantation.

Purpose: We describe a technique of complete intracorporeal renal autotransplantation with donor nephrectomy and transplantation performed in a minimally invasive fashion without extracting the kidney.Materials and Methods: We developed this technique of a completely intracorporeal robotic renal autotransplantation and determined the feasibility of this novel procedure. This includes a method of intracorporeal transarterial hypothermic renal perfusion using a perfusion catheter through a laparoscopic port. The procedure was successfully applied in a 56-year-old man with extensive left ureteral loss after failed ureteroscopy for ureterolithiasis.Results: Robotic donor nephrectomy was performed with a warm ischemia time of 2.3 minutes. Subsequently cold ischemia was achieved by intracorporeal hypothermic renal perfusion for 95.5 minutes. Vascular anastomoses and ureteroureterostomy in the ipsilateral pelvis were completed after donor nephrectomy with a total overall surgeon console time of 334 minutes. Veno...
Constitutive Phosphorylation of Myosin Regulatory Light Chain (RLC) in vivo is Maintained by Low Kinase and Phosphatase Activities

The importance of RLC phosphorylation in enhancing cardiac myofibrillar contraction is well-known. In anesthetized mice the extent of RLC phosphorylation (45%) was not changed by changes in sympathetic tone with prolonged infusion of the beta-agonist dobutamine or treatment with the beta-blocker propranolol. The goal of this study was to determine if the constitutive RLC phosphorylation in vivo was limited to half of the RLC due to: a) negative cooperativity for phosphorylation of two heads in myosin; or b) due to a steric constraint in myofibrils blocking access of soluble cardiac myosin light chain kinase (cMLCK) to RLC. We measured the kinetic properties of RLC phosphorylation in native myosin filaments and myofibrils. Results showed that RLC was phosphorylated by a pseudo-first order rate in both preparations with maximal phosphorylation over 90%. Thus, RLC for each head in myosin was readily available for phosphorylation. Pacing trabeculae at 1.5 Hz for 30 minutes increased RLC phosphorylation from 20±1 % to 43±3 %. Consistent with biochemical results, RLC phosphorylation increased to 91±3 % when myosin light chain phosphatase activity was inhibited with calyculin A while pacing. Together, these results exclude negative cooperativity and steric blocking as mechanisms limiting RLC phosphorylation. We determined that the heart has a high cMLCK content (2.4±0.1 µM) compared to the MLCK present in fast skeletal muscle (0.5±0.03 µM), but similar to the MLCK content in smooth muscle (3.4±0.2 µM). However cMLCK has a low specific activity compared to the other MLCKs. In conclusion, the extent of RLC phosphorylation in a normally beating heart is limited by cMLCK with its low activity in balance with low myosin light chain phosphatase activity. RLC phosphorylation is insensitive to sympathetic activation or inhibition in vivo.
The thyroid-stimulating hormone content of the human hypophysis; a preliminary report.

ABSTRACT The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) content was measured in 203 pituitary glands—198 obtained at autopsy and 5 obtained at operation. In 6 pools composed of 154 glands (total), the mean TSH content ranged from 46 to 155 u.s.p. milliunits (m.u.) per gland. In 44 individually assayed hypophyses obtained at autopsy, the mean TSH content was 114±15.9 m.u., with a range of 10 to 477 m.u. In 5 individually assayed glands removed at operation, the TSH content ranged from 220 to 1100 m.u. In 11 patients less than 51 years old, the mean TSH content of the pituitary was 210 m.u., whereas in the patients more than 51 years old the mean TSH value was 82 m.u. In 13 patients with jaundice of more than four days' duration, the TSH content of the pituitary was 74 m.u.; in the 15 most cachectic and chronically ill patients it was 55 m.u. (below average); in 7 who died acutely it was 196 m.u. In 2 patients receiving prednisone, the pituitary TSH values were the lowest observed in the series. In 9 patients with t...
Searching for bone fractures: A comparison with pulmonary nodule search

Rationale and Objectives. We aimed to determine if the characteristics and principles of visual search described for the detection of pulmonary nodules apply to extremity fractures. Methods. The eye positions of staff orthopedic radiologists, radiology residents, and medical students were monitored as they searched hand and wrist X-ray images for fractures and a chest image for nodules. Results. More systematic scanning patterns were observed for experienced observers than inexperienced observers. Positive decisions for bone durations were significantly longer for false-negative versus true-negative decisions. Intercluster jump distances were found to be greater for chest images than bone iamges. Conclusions. A search for bone fractures can be qualitatively characterized by classifying observer scan paths, dwell times, and jump distances. Gaze duration can be a useful predictor of bone image locations containing potential missed fractures. Perceptual feedback could aid observers in the detection of inconspicuous fractures.
Stages of change, processes of change, and social support for exercise and weight gain in postpartum women.

Objectives To test the extent to which social support and variables included in the Transtheoretical Model were explanatory for exercise initiation and weight maintenance in postpartum women. Design A cross‐sectional descriptive design. Setting Data were collected in the participant's homes. Participants Postpartum women who had normal pregnancies were interviewed and measured on body fat, physical activity, and psychosocial scales. Main outcome measure (a) Stages of exercise change measure, (b) Seven Day Recall, (c) Friend and Family Support for Exercise Scale, (d) Processes of Change Questionnaire, and (e) body fat measures including body mass index and percent body fat. Results Forty percent reported engaging in vigorous activity less than 1 hour daily, 55% walked less than four city blocks daily, and 52% engaged in less than 2 hours of vigorous weekend activity. Multilinear regression showed that the processes of change contributed 36% to the body mass index, and 21% of the variance in waist‐thigh ratio. Of the processes of change, environmental reevaluation correlated significantly with body mass index. Conclusion The impact of a woman's weight on others as well as information concerning the health effects of obesity and physical activity could enhance the initiation of exercise in the postpartum woman. JOGNN , 35, 232‐240; 2006. DOI: 10.1111/J.1552‐6909.2006.00030.x
Thermodynamic Properties of Diatomic Molecules and Axial Hydrogen Rotors

A simple molecular model for calculating the thermodynamic properties of diatomic molecules and axial hydrogen rotors such as HCO, H2CO, C2H4, and C2H6 has been developed. The model uses a Morse potential for stretching vibrations, and harmonic potentials for bending and torsional vibrations. The effects of anharmonicity, centrifugal stretching, and rotation/vibration interactions are all included. For a Morse oscillator, the results are identical to those of Mayer and Mayer (Statistical Mechanics; Wiley: New York, 1946; Chapter 7) and Pennington and Kobe (J. Chem. Phys. 1954, 22, 1442). No comparable results for axial hydrogen rotors are available. The corrections are proportional to the ratio of the characteristic rotational and vibrational temperatures and increase approximately linearly with temperature. In general, the absolute values of the corrections for axial hydrogen rotors are comparable to, but slightly smaller than, those for heterogeneous diatomic molecules containing hydrogen. At the chara...
Residential Mobility of the Poor and the Growth of Poverty in Inner-Ring Suburbs

This study builds on recent research on the growth of suburban poverty by tracking bi-annual poverty trends in inner suburbs from 1989 to 2005 through data reported by the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Contrary to analyses based on the 1990 and 2000 censuses, this research finds that inner-ring suburban poverty increased from 1989 through 1997 but then declined and stabilized at levels similar to those of 1989. It will be shown that most of these changes were driven by transitions into and out of poverty, and that the migration of the poor between central-city and suburban neighborhoods has little effect on poverty rates. These results suggest that such poverty is highly dependent upon economic conditions, which may indicate an increase in inner-ring poverty since 2005.
Microstructure—A prologue

Abstract The principal developments in science and engineering which led to modern physical metallurgy and materials science are briefly noted. Since these fields may be described as a science of partially self-organizing events, detailed experimental observations are of utmost importance in the formulation of a realistic base for theory. The central importance of microstructure, not only in physical metallurgy but also in the areas of ceramics, semi-conductors, biomaterials and polymers in which metallurgical principles have found important application as part of the “super-field” of materials science and engineering, is especially emphasized.
Multilingualism and later life: a sociolinguistic perspective on age and aging.

Abstract In this paper, I contribute to subjective accounts of aging by focusing on a population that has been largely overlooked in social gerontology: individuals in later life who are multilingual. How do such individuals experience and make sense of their multilingualism? What role does language play in the way they experience and make sense of their lives? To answer these questions I take a life story approach to three women who experienced similar sociohistorical circumstances but arrived at different linguistic outcomes: born in Spain around the time of the civil war (1936–1939), they migrated to Paris in the 1960s to pursue social and economic mobility. Although they arrived in France as monolingual Spanish speakers, they have since acquired French and now practice their multilingualism in distinct ways. I juxtapose their life stories to illustrate how the acquisition and use of language are informed by a confluence of personal, social, and historical factors. Focusing on the linguistic dimension of the life course I thus introduce a new perspective on the heterogeneity obtained among individuals at this stage of their biographical trajectories.
The effect of music-reinforced nonnutritive sucking on feeding rate of premature infants

Premature infants are fed by gavage tube before 34 weeks adjusted gestational age and when nipple feeding results in detrimental changes in respiration and heart rate. Nipple feeding skill must be developed and correlates with length of hospitalization and neurobehavioral development. This study provided music reinforcement for nonnutritive sucking and assessed nipple feeding rates pre- and posttreatment for 32 infants referred as poor feeders. A pacifier fitted with a pressure transducer activated 10 seconds of recorded music in a one-trial, 15-minute intervention given to experimental infants (n = 16) 30 to 60 minutes before the late afternoon bottle feeding. Feeding rates were collected for bottle feedings pre- and postintervention and for a similar interval for a no-contact control group (n = 16). Results showed that the intervention significantly increased feeding rates. Music functioned as reinforcement and the sucking behavior transferred from a nonnutritive to a nutritive event.
Organized polysaccharide fibers as stable drug carriers.

Many challenges arise during the development of new drug carrier systems, and paramount among them are safety, solubility and controlled release requirements. Although synthetic polymers are effective, the possibility of side effects imposes restrictions on their acceptable use and dose limits. Thus, a new drug carrier system that is safe to handle and free from side effects is very much in need and food grade polysaccharides stand tall as worthy alternatives. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time the feasibility of sodium iota-carrageenan fibers and their distinctive water pockets to embed and release a wide variety of drug molecules. Structural analysis has revealed the existence of crystalline network in the fibers even after encapsulating the drug molecules, and iota-carrageenan maintains its characteristic and reproducible double helical structure suggesting that the composites thus produced are reminiscent of cocrystals. The melting properties of iota-carrageenan:drug complexes are distinctly different from those of either drug or iota-carrageenan fiber. The encapsulated drugs are released in a sustained manner from the fiber matrix. Overall, our research provides an elegant opportunity for developing effective drug carriers with stable network toward enhancing and/or controlling bioavailability and extending shelf-life of drug molecules using GRAS excipients, food polysaccharides, that are inexpensive and non–toxic.
Evapotranspiration of flood-irrigated pecans

Abstract Pecan orchards require more irrigation water to maximize yield than any other crop grown in the Southwest US. This paper reports daily evapotranspiration (Et) measurements for 2001 and 2002 in a 5.1 ha, mature pecan orchard on the Rio Grande floodplain, 7 km south of Las Cruces, NM, USA. The 21-year-old stand had an average tree height of 12.8 m, diameter at breast height of 30 cm, and tree spacing of 9.7 m × 9.7 m. Additional pecan orchards surrounded the study orchard. When the tensiometer reached a suction of 65 kPa at the 45 cm depth, the orchard was flood-irrigated. Sparling meters were installed on the pumps and read before and after each irrigation. The total irrigation amount was 1940 mm in 2001 and 1870 mm in 2002. A walk-up tower was placed in the orchard’s center to support flux sensors at 16 m height. The instrument package included a net radiation (Rn), discs for soil heat flux ( G ), and two sets of one-propeller eddy covariance (OPEC) sensors. OPEC systems measure sensible heat flux ( H ) with a sensitive, vertically oriented propeller anemometer and a fine-wire thermocouple. Latent heat flux (LE) was obtained as a residual in the surface energy balance LE = Rn − G − H . The maximum daily evapotranspiration was 8 mm/day, and the yearly cumulative evapotranspiration averaged for 2 years was 1420 mm, resulting in a yearly average irrigation application efficiency of 79%. The crop coefficient (daily measured Et/reference Penman Et) ranged from 0.2 to 1.1. Increased evaporation due to irrigation was detected only for the April 9 irrigation in 2001. The seasonal water use was 4% lower in 2001 and 12% lower in 2002 than previously reported values.
Optical coherence tomography of peripheral retinal lesions in enucleated human eye specimens with histologic correlation II.

Purpose: To report optical coherence tomography (OCT)-histologic correlations of two peripheral retinal lesions (PRLs) and to emphasize the feasibility of OCT imaging in fixed tissue specimens. Methods: We studied seven formalin-fixed human eyes two of which contained two common peripheral retinal lesions. OCT scans were performed through these lesions and the vitreous base area, and the images were correlated with corresponding histologic sections. Results: Two PRLs including a retinal break and pars plana cysts in addition to the pars plicata and anterior vitreous were successfully imaged. Their optical characteristics correlated well with histology. OCT findings that may help differentiate the hyaloid face and vitreous skirt were also observed. Conclusions: The correlation between OCT images and corresponding histologic sections demonstrates the feasibility of OCT imaging in fixed tissue specimens. Optical characteristics of the vitreous noted in this study may be helpful in understanding disease proce...
A Linear-Time Algorithm for Hamming Distance with Shifts

The Hamming distance with shifts was introduced by Bookstein et al. as a generalization of the traditional Hamming distance to allow a tunable degree of fuzziness when comparing two binary sequences of the same length. We present a linear-time algorithm for computing this distance. The previous best time bound was quadratic.
Synthesis of surface-active quaternary amino polyfluorosiloxanes

We report synthesis of surface-active quaternary amino polyfluorosilox- anes. Hydrosilation of silanic hydrogen containing polyfluorosiloxanes with olefinic epoxides, in the presence of a platinum- divinyltetramethyldisiloxane complex gave epoxy polyfluorosiloxanes. These, on further reaction with various amines followed by quaternization, gave quaternary amino polyfluorosiloxanes. The quaternary amino polyfluorosiloxanes reduce surface tension of water to 25 mN/m 2 at a 25-millimolar concentration. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 77: 1700 -1708, 2000