cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preoperative diabetes mellitus and long-term survival after resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma

To assess clinicopathologic features and postresection survival of diabetes mellitus (DM)-associated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Records of resected PDAC patients from 2000 to 2007 were reviewed. DM was classified as new-onset (<24 months before PDAC) or longstanding (≥24 months). Clinicopathologic features were compared by univariate and multivariate analyses. Survival was assessed by Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression. Of 209 patients, 93 (45%) met criteria for DM (35 longstanding DM, 55 new-onset DM, 3 duration unknown). DM patients were older (DM 66 ± 9 years, non-DM 63 ± 12 years, P = 0.06); a majority had additional preoperative comorbidities (DM 64.5%, non-DM 25.9%, P < 0.001). Tumor size was larger in patients with DM (DM 3.8 ± 1.7 cm, non-DM 3.2 ± 1.5 cm, P = 0.003). Groups were similar in terms of tumor location, perineural/lymphovascular invasion, and node and margin status. On logistic regression, tumor size ≥3.0 cm was independently associated with both overall DM (odds ratio [OR] 3.60; 95% confidence interval [1.79–7.26]) and new-onset DM (OR 3.69, [1.65–8.24]). Median survival was reduced in patients with DM compared with non-DM (15 versus 17 months, P = 0.015). Multivariate analysis controlling for prognostic variables including age, comorbidities, and tumor size demonstrated that DM was independently associated with reduced survival (hazard ratio [HR] 1.55, [1.02–2.35]). This association was more pronounced for patients with new-onset DM (HR 1.75 [1.10–2.78]) than those with longstanding DM (HR 1.30 [0.75–2.25]). Preexisting DM is associated with reduced survival in patients undergoing resection for PDAC. PDAC with new-onset DM may exhibit increased tumor size and decreased postresection survival. Additional investigation is needed to clarify etiology and impact of PDAC-associated DM.
Optimum temperature for growth of juvenile bluegills

Abstract Juvenile bluegills, Lepomis macrochirus (initial weight, 1.8-8.0 g), were individually marked and fed to excess during a 30-day constant temperature test; day length was 16 h. Fish were tested at temperature intervals of 2° from 20 to 36°C. The highest specific growth rate occurred at 30°C (2.35%/day); however, growth rates of only the groups held at 20 and 36°C were statistically different from the rate for the group held at 30°C.
Surgical outcome in 85 patients with primary cardiac tumors.

Abstract Background We present a large, single institution experience with adult cardiac tumors and address factors affecting outcome. Methods A retrospective review was made of all patients who underwent surgery for primary cardiac tumors from April 1975 through August 2002. Results Eighty-five patients (33 male and 52 female) with a mean age of 54 years were identified with follow-up available for 80 (94%) patients. There were 68 (80%) benign tumors and 17 (20%) malignant tumors. Three tumors recurred and were resected giving a total of 88 surgeries. All benign tumors were grossly resected and the extent of resection for malignant disease ranged from 14 (78%) gross resections and 3 (17%) debulkings to 1 (5%) biopsy. There were 4 (5%) early hospital deaths. Median survival was 9.6 months and 322 months for patients with malignant and benign diseases, respectively. Significant predictors of long-term mortality were malignant disease (P Conclusions Surgical resection provides excellent outcome in patients with benign cardiac tumors. Malignant tumors continue to pose a challenge with good local tumor control but limited survival owing to metastatic disease.
Degradation of refractory metal carbides by hot hydrogen

Abstract The degradation of materials (TaC, WC and NbC) for advanced energy systems induced by hydrogen at high temperatures was investigated. Experiments were conducted in vacuum (control experiments) and hydrogen for temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1600 K. Weight loss, microstructure and phase analyses were performed to correlate the degradation processes in these materials. No hybride formation was observed in any of the specimens when conducted in the presence or absence of hot hydrogen. Oxides were formed in the hydrogen and vacuum runs for TaC. However, oxidation of TaC ceased above 1250 K in the presence of hydrogen. Hydrogen had virtually no effect on the crystal structure of WC or NbC. Weight loss in NbC was enhanced by the presence of hot hydrogen whereas the contrary was observed in TaC. The degradation processes were found to depend strongly on materials and experimental conditions.
Nanometrology Using Spatially-Variant Polarization

We report the designs and implementations of microellipsometer as well as near-field scanning optical microscope using spatial polarization symmetry. Their applications in semiconductor metrology will be discussed.
Determination of direct-reacting bilirubin on the SMA 12/60

1. An improved method for the determination of direct-reacting bilirubin on the Technicon SMA 12/60 AutoAnalyzer is presented. 2. The addition of a blank channel to the direct-reacting bilirubin manifold improves the accuracy and precision of the determination. 3. The use of N-1-naphthyl ethylenediamine dihydrochloride as a secondary standard for direct-reacting bilirubin is suggested. 4. The effect of N-1-naphthyl ethylenediamine dihydrochloride on eighteen determinations available as standard methods on the Technicon SMA 12/60 AutoAnalyzer is presented.
Dosimetry study of Re-188 liquid balloon for intravascular brachytherapy using polymer gel dosimeters and laser-beam optical CT scanner.

Angioplasty balloons inflated with a solution of the beta-emitter Re-188 have been used for intravascular brachytherapy to prevent restenosis. Coronary stents are in extensive clinical use for the treatment of de novo atherosclerotic stenoses. In this study, the effect of an interposed stent on the dose distribution has been measured for Re-188 balloon sources using the proprietary BANG® polymergeldosimeters and He–Ne laser-beam optical CT scanner. In polymergels, after ionizing radiation is absorbed, free-radical chain-polymerization of soluble acrylic monomers occurs to form an insoluble polymer. The BANG polymergeldosimeters used in these measurements allow high resolution, precise, and accurate three-dimensional determination of dosimetry from a given source. Re-188 liquid balloons, with or without an interposed metallic stent, were positioned inside thin walled tubes placed in such a polymerdosimeter to deliver a prescribed dose (e.g., 15 Gy at 0.5 mm). After removing the balloon source, each irradiated sample was mounted in the optical scanner for scanning, utilizing a single compressed He–Ne laser beam and a single photodiode. In the absence of a stent, doses at points along the balloon axis, at radial distance 0.5 mm from the balloon surface and at least 2.5 mm from the balloon ends, are within 90% of the maximum dose. This uniformity of axial dose is independent of the balloon diameter and length. Dose rate and dose uniformity for intravascular brachytherapy with Re-188 balloon are altered by the presence of stent. The dose reduction by the stent is rather constant (13%–15%) at different radial distances. However, dose inhomogeneity caused by the stent decreases rapidly with radial distance.
Metal incorporation by benthic fauna: relationships to sediment inventory

A radionuclide addition experiment was conducted in a large-scale experimental mesocosm to study the behaviour and fate of trace metals in a coastal marine environment. Twelve radionuclides (7Be, 109Cd, 134Cs, 58Co, 60Co, 51Cr, 59Fe, 54Mn, 203Hg, 233Pa, 113Sn, and 65Zn) were added and their concentrations in benthic organisms and sediments were measured during the following nine months. The ability of benthic organisms to concentrate radionuclides was related to the vertical distribution and feeding behaviour of the organisms. Surface living fauna incorporated more radionuclides than deeper fauna. Calculations of total annual radionuclide incorporation by benthic fauna indicated that meiofauna incorporated a similar amount of the labelled metals as the macrofauna, even though the latter have a larger standing stock biomass. These calculations suggest that benthic metazoan fauna can annually cycle from 1% (Sn) to nearly 50% (Cd) of the amount of added radionuclides measured in sediments.
Specificity of ATP‐Dependent and GTP‐Dependent Protein Kinases with Respect to Ribosomal Proteins of Escherichia coli

Two protein kinases differing in substrate specificity were used to phosphorylate the 30-S and the 50-S ribosomal subunits of Escherichia coli. The catalytic subunit from the rabbit skeletal muscle protein kinase phosphorylates proteins S1, S4, S9, S13 and S18 of the 30-S subunit and proteins L2, L4, L5, L16, L18 and L23 of the 50-S subunit with (gamma-32P)ATP as phosphoryl donor. A second protein kinase isolated from rabbit reticulocytes, formerly shown to phosphorylate preferentially acidic proteins and to use GTP as well as ATP, strongly phosphorylated protein S6, an acidic protein of the small ribosomal subunit, and to a lesser extent proteins L7 and L12 or the large subunit. Evidence is presented showing different phosphorylation patterns when either whole subunits or the extracted proteins were used as substrate for the protein kinase. Kinetic studies showed proteins S1 and S4 to become most rapidly phosphorylated. Although most proteins incorporated less than stoichiometric amounts of phosphate, it is shown that with a high excess of ATP L2 bound 1 mol phosphate/mol protein.
World Architecture: A Cross-Cultural History

Richard Ingersoll and Spiro KostopOxford University Press, 2012992 pages, 1,200+ illustrations, accompanying DVD for faculty and website for students.$99.95 (paper)Survey texts on architectural his...
Effects of Various Bases on Acid-Catalyzed Amination of 2-Chloro-5-ethylpyrimidine: Synthesis of PPARpan Agonist GW693085

A unique buffering effect of various bases, i-Pr2NEt and CaCO3 in particular, was observed for the acid-catalyzed chloro displacement of 2-chloro-5-ethylpyrimidine with a 2-methyl-2-phenylpropanami...
Varieties of Frequency Interference in Children's Recognition of Sentence Information.

Abstract The memory of fourth-grade children (9 years, 10 months of age) for information contained in target sentences presented 24 hours earlier was tested by multiple-choice recognition items each consisting of a question about a target sentence followed by three response options. The options consisted of the correct word from the sentence, a new word, and an old, incorrect word that was contained in another sentence on the study trial. The results indicated that the amount of interference produced by old information depended upon the relationship between the sentence in which the old information occurred and the target sentence—being the least when the two were unrelated; the most when the two shared the same subject noun (which also occurred in the stem of the test item for the target sentence); and intermediate when the subjects of the two sentences were synonyms. The interference produced by these manipulations was moderated by instructional strategies and the distance between the target sentence and its variation. The experiment establishes the validity of contextual frequency accrual, a construct logically necessary in extending frequency theory to recognition of information contained in sentences.
Transfer Travel Times for Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention From Low-Volume and Non–Percutaneous Coronary Intervention–Capable Hospitals to High-Volume Centers in Florida

Study objective Current guidelines recommend that ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients receive percutaneous coronary intervention less than or equal to 90 minutes from first medical contact, preferably at high-volume percutaneous coronary intervention centers (≥400 percutaneous coronary interventions annually). Because many patients present to low-volume or non–percutaneous coronary intervention–capable STEMI referral hospitals, timely percutaneous coronary intervention treatment requires effective transfer systems, which include interfacility transport times of less than 30 minutes. We investigate the geographic feasibility of achieving timely interfacility transport from STEMI referral hospitals to percutaneous coronary intervention hospitals in Florida. Methods Using 2006 Florida hospital discharge data, we calculated driving times between STEMI referral hospitals and the nearest medium-/high-volume percutaneous coronary intervention centers. We plotted transfer travel time cumulative proportion survival curves for hospitals and patients to assess the feasibility of transfer within 30 minutes to higher-volume facilities. Differences by geographic location (rural versus urban) and patient race/ethnicity were examined. Results In 2006, 77% of STEMI referral hospitals had transfer travel times within 30 minutes; 90th percentile for interhospital driving time was 56 minutes. For patients at STEMI referral hospitals, 85.6% were at facilities within a 30-minute drive of a high-/medium-volume percutaneous coronary intervention center; 90th percentile was 31 minutes. We found marked rural/urban disparities, with longer average driving times for patients in rural and small metropolitan counties. Significant racial/ethnic disparities in transfer travel times were not observed, although 90th percentile driving times were highest for blacks. Conclusion Driving times do not pose a major geographic barrier to transfer of STEMI patients in Florida. A majority of STEMI patients could be transferred from STEMI referral hospitals to high-volume percutaneous coronary intervention centers within 30 minutes.
Ly6Chi monocyte recruitment is responsible for Th2 associated host-protective macrophage accumulation in liver inflammation due to schistosomiasis.

Accumulation of M2 macrophages in the liver, within the context of a strong Th2 response, is a hallmark of infection with the parasitic helminth, Schistosoma mansoni, but the origin of these cells is unclear. To explore this, we examined the relatedness of macrophages to monocytes in this setting. Our data show that both monocyte-derived and resident macrophages are engaged in the response to infection. Infection caused CCR2-dependent increases in numbers of Ly6Chi monocytes in blood and liver and of CX3CR1+ macrophages in diseased liver. Ly6Chi monocytes recovered from liver had the potential to differentiate into macrophages when cultured with M-CSF. Using pulse chase BrdU labeling, we found that most hepatic macrophages in infected mice arose from monocytes. Consistent with this, deletion of monocytes led to the loss of a subpopulation of hepatic CD11chi macrophages that was present in infected but not naive mice. This was accompanied by a reduction in the size of egg-associated granulomas and significantly exacerbated disease. In addition to the involvement of monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages in hepatic inflammation due to infection, we observed increased incorporation of BrdU and expression of Ki67 and MHC II in resident macrophages, indicating that these cells are participating in the response. Expression of both M2 and M1 marker genes was increased in liver from infected vs. naive mice. The M2 fingerprint in the liver was not accounted for by a single cell type, but rather reflected expression of M2 genes by various cells including macrophages, neutrophils, eosinophils and monocytes. Our data point to monocyte recruitment as the dominant process for increasing macrophage cell numbers in the liver during schistosomiasis.
Genetic diversity from a limited repertoire of mutations on different common allelic backgrounds: alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency variant Pduarte.

α1-Antitrypsin (α1AT) is one of the most polymorphic gene loci in the human genome. α l AT variants are typically identified by their migration position in an isoelectric focusing gel at pH 4–5. Heterogeneity of the isoelectric point of α1AT variants, hence variant migration, most often results from amino acid substitutions which alter the net charge of the molecule. We identified an individual heterozygous for an α1AT variant migrating in the “P” variant region which differs from other known “P” variants. Using isoelectric focusing on an immobilized pH gradient at pH 4.50–4.85 the novel P allele, Pduarte migrates between Pst. albans and Plowell. Densitometric analysis of normal “M” type α1AT and the deficiency variant P lowell major bands separated by isoelectric focusing demonstrates that Pduarte contributes approximately 41% as much α1AT to the total serum α1AT concentration as the normal “M” α1AT, similar to Plowell. Direct DNA sequencing of the proband's genomic DNA demonstrates that the Pduarte allele differs from the normal M1(V213) allele by two amino acid substitutions, R101 (CGT H(CAT) and D256 (GAT)V (GTT). Individually, these amino acid substitutions characterize the normal M4 allele (R101H) and the deficient Plowell allele (D256V). Thus the Pduarte allele differs from the Plowell allele only by the normal allelic background in which the V256 mutation occurs. Comparison of amino acid sequences among several α1AT variants demonstrates that Pduarte is an example of a more general observation regarding diversity within the PI (protease inhibitor) systems. It is apparent that the heterogeneity observed among α1AT variants is due in part to combinations of a limited repertoire of amino acid substitutions. These combinations may be the product of mutational hot spots and/or recombination on normal allelic backgrounds. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Corner Elimination in Discrete Topology Optimization of Compliant Mechanisms

In discrete topology optimization, material state is either solid or void and there is no topology uncertainty caused by intermediate material state. A common problem of the current discrete topology optimization is that boundaries are unsmooth. Unsmooth boundaries are caused by the corners in topology solutions. Although outer corner cutting and inner corner filling strategy can mitigate corners, it cannot eliminate them. 90-degree corners are usually mitigated to 135-degree corners under the corner handling strategy. The existence of corners in topology solutions is because of the subdivision model. If regular triangles are used to subdivide a design domain, corners are inevitable in topology solutions. To eradicate corner from any topology solution, an innovative subdivision model is introduced in this paper for discrete topology optimization of compliant mechanisms. A design domain is discretized into quadrilateral design cells and every quadrilateral design cell is further subdivided into special triangular analysis cells that have a curved hypotenuse. With the presented subdivision model, all boundaries are smooth in any topology solution. Two discrete topology optimization examples of compliant mechanisms are solved based on the proposed subdivision approach.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
A trajectory-grid approach for solving the condensation and evaporation equations of aerosols

Abstract The trajectory-grid method (Chock et al., Atmospheric Environment 30 (1996) 857–868) for solving the transport equation in a grid model can be easily adapted to solve the condensation/evaporation equations of internally mixed multicomponent aerosols based on the sectional approach. Compared to the Bott scheme (Monthly Weather Review 117 (1998) 1006–1015, 2633–2636) often used for solving these equations, the method is significantly more accurate, of comparable speed, but gaining in speed as the number of aerosol components increases. Most notably, there is no mismatch in size change of the different components of the same aerosol. The method is quite flexible, can handle an abrupt change in aerosol size due to evaporation of fog particles, and is ideal for multiply-parallel processors.
Growth of superconducting single crystals of TlmBa2Can-1CunOy in a convenient way

Abstract A convenient procedure has been used successfully for growing high quality superconducting single crystals of the Tl m Ba 2 Ca n −1 Cu n O y type. Alumina crucibles with alumina cover plates have been used to replace the costly sealed gold tubes. Three kinds of crystals have been grown in this way from several starting compositions. They are TlBa 2 CaCu 2 O y (1212), Tl 2 Ba 2 CaCu 2 O y (2212) and Tl 2 Ba 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O y (2223). X-ray precession was used to clarify the crystal quality and structure parameters. Critical temperatures were measured via AC and DC magnetometry, as well as four-probe resistance. The observed T c values are 90 K for 1212 crystals, 100 K for 2212 crystals, and 120 K (onset) or 110 K (zero-resistance) for 2223 crystals.
Low-Level Thermodynamic, Kinematic, and Reflectivity Fields of Hurricane Guillermo (1997) during Rapid Intensification

Abstract From 0600 UTC 2 August to 1200 UTC 3 August Hurricane Guillermo (1997) deepened by 54 hPa over the eastern North Pacific Ocean, easily exceeding the thresholds that define rapid intensification (RI). The NOAA WP-3Ds observed a portion of this RI with similar two-aircraft missions on consecutive days. The aircraft jettisoned 70 successful global positioning system (GPS) dropwindsondes (or GPS sondes), which reveal how conditions in the lower troposphere on the octant to quadrant scale evolved within 250 km of the eye. Reflectivity fields demonstrate that the deepening is correlated with a spiraling in of the northern eyewall that reduces the eye diameter by 10 km. This behavior contrasts the more uniform contraction witnessed during eyewall replacement cycles. Mixing between the lower eye and eyewall, as detailed by other investigators, appears to have triggered the reduction in the eye diameter. After RI the eyewall remains asymmetrical with the tallest echo tops and heaviest rain rates located o...
When Congress tried to cut Pentagon public relations: a lesson from history

Abstract This historical case study reviews and analyzes congressional efforts, from 1967 to 1973, to limit and control military public relations. A review of the effectiveness of the efforts showed that they had, at best, only a limited effect. A major cause of the relative ineffectiveness of this effort was due to the use of counterstrategies by the military that were legal, yet contravened the intent of Congress. The importance of public relations to administrative agencies suggests that they would be expected to behave as the military did. This means that there are limits to the legislative power of the purse, which, it turns out, may not be the ultimate governmental power to control public bureaucracies after all. Mordecai Lee is an Assistant Professor of Governmental Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
The Atomistic Self versus the Holistic Self in Structural Relation to the Other

I argue that meaning or significanceper se, along with the capacity to be conscious thereof, and the values, motives and aspirations, etc. central to the constitution of our intrinsic personal identities, arise, as indeed do our extrinsic social identities, and our very self-consciousness as such, from socio-cultural structures and relations to others. However, so far from our identities and behavior therefore being determined, I argue that the capacity for critical reflection and evaluation emerge from these same structural relations, the more complex and quintessentially human aspects of our behavior being explained not in terms of responses to stimuli but as choices reflecting our evaluation of meaningful or significant alternatives. Finally I provide theoretical grounds for accepting the existence of other subjects and give a holistic, as opposed to a dialectical, account of the way individuals may challenge and change the very socio-cultural ways of relating to and interacting with others so central to constituting their capacities and identities.
Dynamical simulation of disoriented chiral condensate formation in Bjorken rods

Using a semiclassical treatment of the linear $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ model, we simulate the dynamical evolution of an initially hot cylindrical rod endowed with a longitudinal Bjorken scaling expansion (a ``Bjorken rod''). The field equation is propagated until full decoupling has occurred and the asymptotic many-body state of free pions is then obtained by a suitable Fourier decomposition of the field and a subsequent stochastic determination of the number of quanta in each elementary mode. The resulting transverse pion spectrum exhibits visible enhancements below 200 MeV due to the parametric amplification caused by the oscillatory relaxation of the chiral order parameter. Ensembles of such final states are subjected to various event-by-event analyses. The factorial moments of the multiplicity distribution suggest that the soft pions are nonstatistical. Furthermore, their emission patterns exhibit azimuthal correlations that have a bearing on the domain size in the source. Finally, the distribution of the neutral pion fraction shows a significant broadening for the soft pions which grows steadily as the number of azimuthal segments is increased. All of these features are indicative of disoriented chiral condensates and it may be interesting to apply similar analyses to actual data from high-energy nuclear collision experiments.
In situ, real-time measurement of wing tilt during lateral epitaxial overgrowth of GaN

By performing in situ, real-time x-ray diffraction measurements in the metalorganic chemical-vapor deposition environment, we have directly observed the emergence and evolution of wing tilt that occurs during the lateral overgrowth of GaN from stripes patterned in a SiO2 mask. This was done by repeatedly performing line scans through the 1013 peak in the direction perpendicular to the [1010]GaN stripe direction. The wing tilt developed as soon as the wings started forming, and increased slightly thereafter to reach a value of ∼1.19° after 3600 s of growth. Upon cooldown to room temperature, the tilt increased to ∼1.36°, indicating that thermally induced stresses during cooldown have only a small effect on wing tilt. However, changes in mask density, composition, and stress state during early lateral overgrowth must be considered as possible origins of wing tilt.
Cournot and Bertrand Competition when Advertising Rotates Demand: The Case of Honda and Scion

Abstract We develop a model to explain why firm behavior differs in the market for small cars. Firms such as Honda compete in output (Cournot) and produce marketing campaigns with universal appeal, while firms such as Scion compete in price (Bertrand) and produce targeted marketing campaigns. We show that this mixture of Cournot and Bertrand behavior can occur when advertising rotates demand. When behaving as a Cournot-type firm such as Honda, it is more profitable to pursue a mass-market advertising campaign that rotates demand counterclockwise when it faces relatively low unit costs and a flat demand function. When behaving as a Bertrand-type firm such as Scion, it pays to pursue a niche-market advertising campaign that rotates demand clockwise when it faces relatively high unit costs and a steep demand.
Historical estimation of diesel exhaust exposure in a cohort study of U.S. railroad workers and lung cancer

We have previously shown an elevated risk of lung cancer mortality in diesel exhaust exposed railroad workers. To reduce exposure misclassification, we obtained extensive historical information on diesel locomotives used by each railroad. Starting in 1945, we calculated the rate each railroad converted from steam to diesel, creating annual railroad-specific weighting factors for the probability of diesel exposure. We also estimated the average annual exposure intensity based on emission factors. The U.S. Railroad Retirement Board provided railroad assignment and work histories for 52,812 workers hired between 1939-1949, for whom we ascertained mortality from 1959-1996. Among workers hired after 1945, as diesel locomotives were introduced, the relative risk of lung cancer for any exposure was 1.77 (95% CI = 1.50-2.09), and there was evidence of an exposure-response relationship with exposure duration. Exposed workers hired before 1945 had a relative risk of 1.30 (95% CI = 1.19-1.43) for any exposure and there was no evidence of a dose response with duration. There was no evidence of increasing risk using estimated measures of intensity although the overall lung cancer risk remained elevated. In conclusion, although precise historical estimates of exposure are not available, weighting factors helped better define the exposure-response relationship of diesel exhaust with lung cancer mortality.
Postnatal lymphatic partitioning from the blood vasculature in the small intestine requires fasting-induced adipose factor

Lymphatic vessels develop from specialized venous endothelial cells. Using knockout mice, we found that fasting-induced adipose factor (Fiaf) is required for functional partitioning of postnatal intestinal lymphatic and blood vessels. In wild-type animals, levels of intestinal Fiaf expression rise during the first postnatal day and peak at day 2, which coincides with the onset of the lymphatico-venous partitioning abnormality in Fiaf−/− mutants on a mixed 129/SvJ:C57BL/6 genetic background. Fiaf deficiency is not associated with disruption of the blood vasculature or with lymphatic endothelial recruitment of smooth muscle cells. We identified Prox1, a critical regulator of lymphangiogenesis, as a downstream target for Fiaf signaling in the intestinal lymphatic endothelium. This organ-specific lymphovascular abnormality can be rescued by allowing embryonic Fiaf−/− intestinal isografts to develop in Fiaf+/+ recipients.
700 EFFICACY OF GASTRIC ACID SUPPRESSION BY CIMETIDINE IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

The dose of cimetidine necessary to suppress gastric acid production in pediatric patients is not well established. Consequently, we studied 9 pts (mean age 7 yr, range 8m-10yr) with GI and/or pulmonary symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, documented by abnormal overnight esophageal pH probe. The probe was then advanced into the stomach and gastric pH recorded before and after oral doses of cimetidine: 4 pts received randomized doses (5,7.5,and 10 mg/kg) at 8-hr intervals; 5 pts received 5 and 10 mg/kg at 4-hr intervals. Age-appropriate standardized meals were given starting 1 hr following administration of the initial dose. Efficacy of gastric acid suppression was defined as gastric pH >4. RESULTS: *One pt, unresponsive to all 3 doses, was treated with 14.3 mg/kg; gastric pH measured >4 for 1.4 hrs only. CONCLUSIONS: 1) Currently used cimetidine doses of 5 and 7.5 mg/kg fail to suppress gastric acid for >1 hr in some pts. 2) Two pts were unresponsive to doses as high as 10 mg/kg. 3) Documentation of gastric acid suppression is indicated in the management of pediatric patients with peptic related disease.
Are multinational enterprises from the emerging economies global or regional

Summary While there is ample statistical evidence that the top 500 multinational enterprises (MNEs) are predominantly home-region-bound or bi-regional, the operations of MNEs from the emerging economies have not been comprehensively analyzed. This constitutes a vital gap since firms from emerging economies have been making prominent acquisitions in recent years, and these economies are expected to post impressive growth despite the global economic slowdown. MNE managers cannot ignore such opportunities and threats. This study analyzes the operations of MNEs from four leading emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC). Since aggregated FDI data often lack transparency due to off-shore tax havens, we supplement that analysis by examining 1430 mergers and acquisitions undertaken by MNEs from BRIC economies during 2000–2007. We also develop insights into their dispersion pattern across five industry sectors in six geographical regions.
Y a-t-il un biais de sélection dans l'application du traitement endovasculaire pour rupture d'anévrysme ?

Les donnees s'accumulent suggerant que le traitement endovasculaire (TE) des anevrysmes de l'aorte abdominale rompus (AAAR) entraine une diminution de la mortalite mais le probleme est pose de savoir si cela ne pourrait pas refleter un biais de selection. Nous avons etudie notre experience globale des AAAR apres l'institution de notre protocole pour explorer cette question. Nous avons etabli un protocole defini pour les AAAR en insistant sur le TE en Juillet 2002, comportant la disponibilite des dispositifs, un entrainement pre-operatoire, un acces 24 heures sur 24 a notre salle d'endovasculaire, avec la possibilite d'une imagerie en urgence et la disponibilite immediate d'un kit chirurgical pour mise en place d'un ballon par voie transhumerale dans tous les cas. Les dossiers de tous les malades ayant un AAAR arrives vivants en salle d'operation depuis l'institution de notre protocole ont ete etudies. Les tomodensitometries (TDM) ont ete reetudiees pour apprecier les candidats anatomiques potentiellement favorables. De Juillet 2002 a Mai 2006, un total de 52 AAAR ont ete traites dans notre institution : 15 AAAR para-renaux, tous traites par chirurgie classique (PR-CHIR) et 37 AAAR sous-renaux, dont 20 traites par chirurgie conventionnelle (IR-CHIR) et 17 traites par TE (IR-TE, 32% de l'ensemble des ruptures). Les taux de mortalite dans les trois groupes etaient respectivement de 47%, 75% et 35% (p
Bis(neopentylallyl)magnesium

Abstract The title compound (NpAMg) is prepared by the reaction of anhydrous magnesium chloride with neopentylallyllithium in n-pentane solvent. Several reactions of NpAMg are reported including protolysis, carbonation, and reaction with chlorotrimethylsilane and 2-butanone. The results in ether solvent are contrasted with those obtained in n-pentane and with those of the corresponding lithium compound. A pronounced trans preference is observed in the reaction products of NpAMg. Proton magnetic resonance spectra of the title compound are reported in THF-d8 and diethyl ether-d10. At room temperature and above the spectrum is that of a dynamic allyl system with approximately equal amounts of the trans and cis primary forms. Low temperature spectra are presented in which the spectra of the individual isomers are observed.
The Nck-interacting kinase NIK increases Arp2/3 complex activity by phosphorylating the Arp2 subunit

The nucleating activity of the Arp2/3 complex promotes the assembly of branched actin filaments that drive plasma membrane protrusion in migrating cells. Arp2/3 complex binding to nucleation-promoting factors of the WASP and WAVE families was previously thought to be sufficient to increase nucleating activity. However, phosphorylation of the Arp2 subunit was recently shown to be necessary for Arp2/3 complex activity. We show in mammary carcinoma cells that mutant Arp2 lacking phosphorylation assembled with endogenous subunits and dominantly suppressed actin filament assembly and membrane protrusion. We also report that Nck-interacting kinase (NIK), a MAP4K4, binds and directly phosphorylates the Arp2 subunit, which increases the nucleating activity of the Arp2/3 complex. In cells, NIK kinase activity was necessary for increased Arp2 phosphorylation and plasma membrane protrusion in response to epidermal growth factor. NIK is the first kinase shown to phosphorylate and increase the activity of the Arp2/3 complex, and our findings suggest that it integrates growth factor regulation of actin filament dynamics.
Asymbiotic and symbiotic seed germination of Eulophia alta (Orchidaceae)—preliminary evidence for the symbiotic culture advantage

Eulophia alta (Linnaeus) Fawcett & Rendle seeds collected from the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge (Collier County, FL; FPNWR) were used in a screen of five asymbiotic orchid seed germination media to determine their effectiveness in promoting germination and protocorm development. In addition, 10 fungal isolates collected from the roots of E. alta at sites in the FPNWR, Highlands County (FL), and Goethe State Forest (Levy County, FL; GSF), and a fungal isolate from the roots of Spiranthes brevilabris collected from GSF were screened for their effectiveness at promoting in vitro symbiotic germination of E. alta seeds. After 18 weeks asymbiotic culture, seeds sown on PhytoTechnology Orchid Seed Sowing Medium germinated to a higher percentage (87.9%) and had a higher percentage of protocorms with developing protomeristems (32.7%) than seeds cultured on Knudson C, Malmgren Modified Terrestrial Orchid Medium, ½-strength Murashige & Skoog, or Vacin & Went Modified Orchid Medium. Significantly more leaf-bearing protocorms were observed on PhytoTechnology Orchid Seed Sowing Medium (0.8%) and Vacin & Went Modified Orchid Medium (1.3%) than other media tested. Of the fungi tested, one fungal isolate (Ealt-396) promoted germination to 69.0%, two isolates promoted germination to less than 0.75% and did not support further protocorm development, and eight isolates did not support germination. Seeds co-cultured in darkness with Ealt-396 grew more rapidly than asymbiotic seedlings following germination. In addition, co-cultured (=symbiotic) seedlings continued to develop more rapidly than asymbiotic seedlings upon transfer to 16/8 h light/dark photoperiod. Symbiotic seed culture of E. alta may be a more desirable method of propagation since protocorms develop more rapidly than seeds sown on asymbiotic media. Symbiotic seedlings may be more appropriate for reintroduction to natural areas than asymbiotic seedlings since symbiotic seedlings could serve to inoculate soils with a germination promoting mycobiont.
Tumor Angiogenesis in Melanoma

A large number of clinical studies are being conducted to assess the effects of angiogenesis inhibitors in the treatment of patients who have metastatic melanoma. It has become increasingly clear that a therapeutic approach that combines angiogenesis inhibitors with cytotoxic agents or other treatment modalities is more likely to result in a clinical benefit for patients rather than antiangiogenesis treatments alone. However, a targeted treatment approach with antiangiogenic agents needs to be based on an in-depth understanding of the complex mechanisms involved in melanoma tumor angiogenesis.
Is there clinical value to sentinel lymph node sampling in colon cancer

The well-established concept of sentinel lymph node (SLN) sampling for malignancies is based on the orderly and sequential flowoflymphaticfluidfromthesiteoftheprimarytumorthrough the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes within the draining lymphatic basin. It is accepted that the lymphatic dissemination of tumor cells follows this pattern, with the additional supposition that the tumor cells will be effectively filtered out in the lymph nodes in the drainage basin. When this concept applies, localization, removal, and pathologic analysis of SLNs provides important staging and prognostic information regarding lymphatic dissemination of the primary tumor. The accuracy and advantages of SLN sampling for malignancies of the integumentary system (principally melanoma and breast cancer) have been well documented in multiple trials since Morton’s original report on SLN biopsy for malignant melanoma in 1992. 1
Ultra-fast three dimensional imaging of hyperpolarized 13C in vivo.

Objective: PASADENA, a chemical method of enhancing nuclear spin polarization has demonstrated 13C polarizations of order unity for the nascent products of molecular addition by parahydrogen. The extreme brevity of signal enhancement obtained by hyperpolarization requires improved 13C MR in vivo imaging techniques for their optimum utility. Materials and Methods: 13C imaging sequences, including 13C 3D FIESTA, were compiled for a GE LX 1.5 T clinical MR scanner. Two water soluble 13C imaging agents were hyperpolarized utilizing parahydrogen and an automated polarizer. 13C polarization was quantified in flow phantoms and in rats with jugular vein catheters. Results: Fast 3D FIESTA 13C MR imaging technique acquired sequential 3D images (3.66 s/acquisition) with superior SNR. Hyperpolarized 13C solutions and vascular phantoms achieved a maximum signal of 26,624±593. In vivo 13C MR images of the cardiopulmonary circulation showed maximum 13C signal of 2,402±158. 13C images acquired within 3.66 s showed signal enhancement over 10,000 compared to equilibrium polarization. Conclusion: 3D-FIESTA was effective for sub-second in vivo imaging of hyperpolarized 13C reagents produced in a custom-built parahydrogen polarizer. Application to 13C hyperpolarized by parahydrogen is demonstrated in vitro and in vivo
Reflectance confocal microscopy - Real-time In vivo imaging of basal and squamous cell carcinomas

Reflectance and confocal microscopy (RCM) is an in vivo non-invasive imaging tool that captures horizontal images of the epidermis and superficial dermis at nearly the same resolution of routine histopathology. Due to the overlying superficial scaling, RCM characterization of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and associated keratinizing tumors is difficult to visualize due to the obscure appearance of underlying structures. To date, although an increasing frequency of abnormal RCM features are observed across the spectrum, only a few authors have described the features of SCCs. One recent study suggested a disarranged and atypical honeycomb pattern along with round nucleated cells within the spinous/granular layers and round vessels traversing through dermal papilla as key features of SCC. Meanwhile several RCM features have been linked to basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) regardless of type including: Variable architectural disarray of the epidermis A uniform pattern of elongated monomorphic nuclei polarized along the same axis Abundant vessels with prominent tortuosity Mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate admixed with carcinoid basal cells Tightly packed cells in the papillary dermis with a nodular/cord-like growth pattern Palisading tumor cell nuclei Peri-tumoral dark cleft-like spaces representing mucinous edema The presence of bright dendritic cells and melanophages in pigmented BCC Our objective is to identify and describe characteristic RCM findings of SCCs and BCCs by imaging biopsy-proven lesions and reviewing the most recent literature. We will also explain how these features may facilitate diagnosis and recognize future trends for research. Applications of RCM criteria concerning surgical management of these lesions will also be discussed.
Winter–spring transition of phytoplankton chlorophyll and inorganic nutrients on Georges Bank☆

Phytoplankton chlorophyll and inorganic nutrients were measured monthly during the winter}spring transition in 1997 on Georges Bank as part of the US Globec Program. We measured only chlorophyll and hydrography in January and June; nutrients were included in the February, March, April and May cruises. The winter}spring phytoplankton bloom on the Bank began early in 1997. Phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentrations were lowest in January ((1.0 l gl ~1), but by February concentrations ranged between 2 and 3 l gl ~1 on the western half of the top of the Bank (e.g., inside the 60 m isobath). Near-surface nitrate#nitrite concentrations in February were less than 6 lM over most of the Bank and below 4 lM on the western half. Near-surface silicate concentrations were generally less than 6 lM over most of the Bank in February, and were reduced to 2}3 lM inside the 60 m isobath; concentrations were depleted most on the western half of the top of the Bank, where they were less than 1 lM. Scotian Shelf Water intruded onto the Bank in February and remained distinct through April; near-surface nutrient concentrations in this Scotian Shelf Water in March were also low, and chlorophyll concentrations were high (4}5 l gl ~1). The spring bloom was still underway in March, with increased chlorophyll concentrations spreading over most of the Bank. Silicate appeared to be the limiting nutrient beginning as early as February, with concentrations becoming depleted in March before nitrate#nitrite did. During April and May both silicate and nitrate concentrations were reduced to less than 1 lM in the near-surface waters over much of the top of the Bank; however, there were indications that silicate was being recycled on some parts of the Bank in May, which, in addition to recycled nitrogen, may have contributed to locally high chlorophyll concentrations observed in May and June. Higher near-surface nutrient concentrations also ringed the deeper edges of the Bank in late spring, where chlorophyll concentrations were generally high (greater than 5 l gl ~1) but also very patchily distributed. ( 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Prevalence and psychological sequelae of self-reported childhood physical and sexual abuse in a general population sample of men and women

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the prevalence and psychological sequelae of childhood sexual and physical abuse in adults from the general population. METHOD: A national sampling service generated a geographically stratified, random sample of 1,442 subjects from the United States. Subjects were mailed a questionnaire that included the Traumatic Events Survey (TES) [Traumatic Events Survey, Unpublished Psychological Test, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles] and the Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI) [Trauma Symptom Inventory Professional Manual, Psychological Assessment Resources, Odessa, FL]. Of all potential subjects, 935 (64.8%) returned substantially completed surveys. RESULTS: Sixty-six men and 152 women (14.2% and 32.3%, respectively) reported childhood experiences that satisfied criteria for sexual abuse, and 103 males and 92 females (22.2% and 19.5%, respectively) met criteria for physical abuse. Twenty-one percent of subjects with one type of abuse also had experienced the other type, and both types were associated with subsequent adult victimization. After controlling for demographics, adult history of interpersonal violence, and other child abuse, childhood sexual abuse was associated with all 10 scales of the TSI, and physical abuse was related to all TSI scales except those tapping sexual issues. Sexual abuse predicted more symptom variance than did physical abuse or adult interpersonal victimization. Various aspects of both physical and sexual abuse experiences were predictive of TSI scores. Abuser sex, however, both alone and in interaction with victim sex, was not associated with additional TSI symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS: Childhood sexual and physical abuse is relatively common in the general population, and is associated with a wide variety of psychological symptoms. These relationships remain even after controlling for relevant background variables. Language: en
On the constrained controllability of linear time-varying discrete systems

In this paper, the authors study the constrained complete controllability to the origin of various classes of time-varying discrete-time systems under an assumption of a Kalman-type uniform controllability. They will give sufficient conditions for complete controllability for both stable and unstable systems. The admissible controllers considered assume values in the unit balls of the sequence spaces l/sup P/.