cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recognition of a Shared Human Prostate Cancer-Associated Antigen by Nonclassical MHC-Restricted CD8+ T Cells

To identify prostate cancer-associated Ags, tumor-reactive T lymphocytes were generated using iterative stimulations of PBMC from a prostate cancer patient with an autologous IFN-γ-treated carcinoma cell line in the presence of IL-2. A CD8+ T cell line and TCR αβ+ T cell clone were isolated that secreted IFN-γ and TNF-α in response to autologous prostate cancer cells but not to autologous fibroblasts or lymphoblastoid cells. However, these T cells recognized several normal and malignant prostate epithelial cell lines without evidence of shared classical HLA molecules. The T cell line and clone also recognized colon cancers, but not melanomas, sarcomas, or lymphomas, suggesting recognition of a shared epithelium-associated Ag presented by nonclassical MHC or MHC-like molecules. Although Ag recognition by T cells was inhibited by mAb against CD8 and the TCR complex (anti-TCR αβ, CD3, Vβ12), it was not inhibited by mAb directed against MHC class Ia or MHC class II molecules. Neither target expression of CD1 molecules nor HLA-G correlated with T cell recognition, but β2-microglobulin expression was essential. Ag expression was diminished by brefeldin A, lactacystin, and cycloheximide, but not by chloroquine, consistent with an endogenous/cytosolic Ag processed through the classical class I pathway. These results suggest that prostate cancer and colon cancer cells can process and present a shared peptidic Ag to TCR αβ+ T cells via a nonclassical MHC I-like molecule yet to be defined.
Form representation in monkey inferotemporal cortex is virtually unaltered by free viewing

How are objects represented in the brain during natural behavior? Visual object recognition in primates is thought to depend on the inferotemporal cortex (IT). In most neurophysiological studies of IT, monkeys hold their direction of gaze fixed while isolated visual stimuli are presented (controlled viewing). However, during natural behavior, primates visually explore cluttered environments by changing gaze direction several times each second (free viewing). We examined the effect of free viewing on IT neuronal responses in monkeys engaged in a form-recognition task. By making small, real-time stimulus adjustments, we produced nearly identically retinal stimulation during controlled and free viewing. Nearly 90% of neuronal responses were unaffected by free viewing, and average stimulus selectivity was unchanged. Thus, neuronal representations that likely underlie form recognition are virtually unaltered by free viewing.
The Sexual Economy, Gender Relations and Narratives of Infant Death on a Tomato Farm in Northern South Africa

Based on an extended case study of a large-scale tomato farm in northern Limpopo province, the paper examines how the restructuring of agriculture transforms the sexual economy through shifts in the composition of labour and management practices on farms in this area. The employment of Zimbabwean migrants, rather than relatively permanent Venda families, suggests a potentially greater variety of people participating in the sexual economy. While families as units of employment have declined, black supervisors increasingly serve as a primary locus of coercion on the farm and in the sexual economy. The monetization of erstwhile paternalistic services places pressure on women to earn income however they can, including transactional sex. Contested interpretations over the causes of infant deaths on the farm, in the form of hygiene, blood-mixing and infanticide, provide an ethnographic framework for a deeper analysis of the sexual economy and its social effects. While the sexual economy presents opportunities for women to increase their income, it also exposes them to the risks of HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancies, resulting in contradictory implications for the status of women on farms.
Regenerating the Islamic Republic: Commemorating Martyrs in Provincial Iran1

This article explores how provincial Iranian laymen and officials who support the regime (here, Basijis) mobilize the bodies and blood of martyrs to sacralize the national landscape in Post-Revolutionary Iran. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, a powerful cohort of religious scholars and everyday citizens has emphasized the need to (re)generate the authentically Islamic interior of the nation while resisting an immoral, “Westernstruck” exterior. A significant part of this sacred defense against Western cultural invasion has been the exhumation of bodies of Iran-Iraq War (1980-88) martyrs from the battlefront for reburial and commemoration at sites across the national landscape. This article, based on 15 months of ethnographic research in the Fars Province of Iran, investigates these ongoing practices of reburying and memorializing martyrs. I argue that the exhumations and reburials of martyrs are strategic religious practices that organize the bodies of Iranian subjects around key reference points, specifically the martyrdom of the Imam Husayn at the Battle of Karbala, the 1979 Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq War. In addition, I show how acts of commemorating martyrs emphasize the sacrificial blood of male citizens, a bodily substance that draws further symbolic efficacy from its associations with the life-giving blood of kinship. This is the first ethnographic account of how martyrs are interred and commemorated in provincial Iran.
Trading spectral efficiency for system latency in true-random noise radar network through template-replay diversity

The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has developed an experimental multistatic ultrawideband noise radar network (NoNET) to produce highly accurate, highly resolved imagery of a target scene while maintaining a featureless waveform for efficient spectrum utilization. In this work we present the results of an experimental study to assess the effectiveness of a template replay strategy to mitigate the effects of network latency in the radar network while preserving the Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) nature of the random noise (RN) waveform. Based on laboratory prototype measurements and a MATLAB model of two representative play-back schemes we demonstrate up to a 75% increase in processing efficiency while maintaining the ability to operate in a frequency contested environment.
Molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) HgCdTe infrared focal plane array (IRFPA) flexible manufacturing

Extensive material and device statistics of performance and reproducibility are presented to show the maturity of this technology. The demonstration vehicles to monitor yields during this demonstration were long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) HgCdTe multilayer wafers with 128 X 128 detector arrays. The heterostructure photodetectors were of the p-on-n planar configuration. Device data show that MBE LWIR diode test structures have performance that equals that of p-on-n double heterostructure photodiodes made by LPE. Due to the special attention given to understanding and reducing epilayer growth-induced defects, we have achieved improvements in FPA operability values from 92% to 98%. These improvements have resulted in the demonstration of a 128 X 128 FPA hybrid that had detectivity (D*) background limited performance when operating at 80 K in a tactical background environment. Mean D* was 1.28 X 1011 cmHz1/2/W. The corresponding mean NE(Delta) T was an excellent 5.9 mK.
Reference Electrode for Ionic Liquids

Reference electrodes for room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) applications were constructed that have a known and reproducible potential versus the ferrocene/ferrocenium couple. They are based on reference electrodes of the first kind, Ag/Ag+ couple type, or of the second kind, based on Ag/AgCl in M+Cl−. The former uses AgNO3 salt and the latter tetrabutylammonium chloride, Bu4NCl, dissolved in acetonitrile which are then introduced to the ionic liquid of choice for a final concentration of 0.1 M. The reference electrodes can be easily and reproducibly constructed. An ionic contact of these reference systems with the test electrolyte was made using an asbestos fiber liquid junction. The internal compartment of the reference system was filled with the same ionic liquid as used for the electrochemical experiment. The performance of these reference electrodes was tested in selected ionic liquids using the ferrocene/ferrocenium redox couple. The stability, reproducibility, and temperature behavior of the two reference systems have been characterized in the following ionic liquids: 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIBF4), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (BMI(CF3SO2)2N), and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (BMIPF6). It has been found that the formal potentials of the examined reference systems are stable over several days. There is a linear relationship for the temperature studied in the range from 25 to 60 °C.
Antiretrovirals for Primary HIV Prevention: the Current Status of Pre- and Post-exposure Prophylaxis

In light of the 2 million HIV infections that occur globally each year, there is a need to optimize strategies that integrate biomedical and behavioral approaches to HIV prevention. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) immediately after acute high-risk exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those who engage in recurrent high-risk behaviors are promising bio-behavioral approaches to decreasing HIV transmission. Guidelines have recommended PEP for occupational and non-occupational exposures for over 15 years, but uptake of PEP has been limited, partly as a result of insufficient awareness of this intervention among persons at highest risk for acquiring HIV. However, since the publication of large randomized clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of PrEP, and the dissemination of guidelines endorsing its use, there is a renewed focus on bio-behavioral prevention. Numerous studies have recently assessed the acceptability of bio-behavioral prevention programs among diverse populations or described experiences implementing these programs in “real-world” settings. As research and clinical data informing optimal utilization of PEP and PrEP are rapidly accumulating, this review provides a timely summary of recent progress in bio-behavioral prevention. By contextualizing the most noteworthy recent findings regarding PEP and PrEP, this review seeks to inform the successful implementation of these promising prevention approaches.
Hexakis(trimethylsilyl)-2-butyne by trimethylsilylation of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene

Abstract Lithium (or sodium) chlorotrimethylsilane and hexachlorobutadiene in THF give hexakis(trimethylsilyl)-2-butyne in good yields. Some chemical properties of this sterically hindered compound are described. In contrast, magnesium under similar conditions gives bis(trimethylsilyl)butadiyne; whereas barium fails to react.
Phthalate Exposure and Precocious Puberty in Females

Objective To determine whether phthalate exposure is associated with precocious puberty in girls. Study design This was a multicenter cross-sectional study in which 28 girls with central precocious puberty (CPP) and 28 age- and race-matched prepubertal females were enrolled. Nine phthalate metabolites and creatinine were measured in spot urine samples from these 56 children. Results Levels of 8 of the 9 phthalate metabolites were above the limit of detection (LOD) in all 56 subjects. Mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) was below the LOD in 25/56 samples (14 subjects with precocious puberty and 11 controls). No significant differences between the children with CPP and the controls in either absolute or creatinine-normalized concentrations of any of the 9 phthalate metabolites were measured. Conclusions Although phthalates may be associated with certain other toxicities in humans, our study suggests that their exposure is not associated with precocious puberty in female children.
A simplified model of thermal comfort

Abstract The purpose of conditioning the air in a building is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for its occupants. Satisfaction with the environment is composed of many components, the most important of which is thermal comfort. The principal environmental factors that affect human comfort are air temperature, mean radiant temperature, humidity, and air speed; virtually all heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, however, are usually controlled only by an air-temperature set-point. Significant efficiency improvements could be achieved if HVAC systems responded to comfort levels rather than air-temperature levels. The purpose of this report is to present a simplified model of thermal comfort based on the original work of Fanger, who related thermal comfort to total thermal stress on the body. The simplified solutions allow the calculation of predicted mean vote (PMV) and effective temperature which (in the comfort zone) are linear in the air temperature and mean radiant temperature, and quadratic in the dew point, and which can be calculated without any iteration. In addition to the mathematical expressions, graphical solutions are presented.
The Problems With Some Means: Cautionary Advice Regarding Reporting and Interpreting Averages in Communication Research

The arithmetic mean is ubiquitous in communication research. Although the reporting of descriptive statistics is desirable and encouraged, caution is needed in special circumstances. Three potential problems with means are discussed. The mean can be misleading when (a) data are not normally distributed, (b) when there are undetected treatment × subject interactions, and (c) in meta-analysis when effects are heterogeneous.
Adaptive control techniques for friction compensation

We design two adaptive controllers for a second-order mechanical system which incorporates frictional effects such as Coulomb, static, Stribeck, and viscous friction. First, we design a modular position tracking controller that can accommodate a variety of adaptive update laws. The proposed controller is shown to compensate for uncertainty associated with the friction parameters which appear linearly in the model. In the second control scheme, we show how a Lyapunov-based adaptive position setpoint controller can be designed to compensate for parametric uncertainty throughout the mechanical system including the Stribeck effect related constant which does not appear linearly in the model. Experimental results are provided to illustrate the performance of the proposed controllers.
Novel Modeling Framework To Guide Design of Optimal Dosing Strategies for β-Lactamase Inhibitors

The scarcity of new antibiotics against drug-resistant bacteria has led to the development of inhibitors targeting specific resistance mechanisms, which aim to restore the effectiveness of existing agents. However, there are few guidelines for the optimal dosing of inhibitors. Extending the utility of mathematical modeling, which has been used as a decision support tool for antibiotic dosing regimen design, we developed a novel mathematical modeling framework to guide optimal dosing strategies for a beta-lactamase inhibitor. To illustrate our approach, MK-7655 was used in combination with imipenem against a clinical isolate of Klebsiella pneumoniae known to produce KPC-2. A theoretical concept capturing fluctuating susceptibility over time was used to define a novel pharmacodynamic index (time above instantaneous MIC [T>MIC(i)]). The MK-7655 concentration-dependent MIC reduction was characterized by using a modified sigmoid maximum effect (E(max))-type model. Various dosing regimens of MK-7655 were simulated to achieve escalating T>MIC(i) values in the presence of a clinical dose of imipenem (500 mg every 6 h). The effectiveness of these dosing exposures was subsequently validated by using a hollow-fiber infection model (HFIM). An apparent trend in the bacterial response was observed in the HFIM with increasing T>MIC(i) values. In addition, different dosing regimens of MK-7655 achieving a similar T>MIC(i) (69%) resulted in comparable bacterial killing over 48 h. The proposed framework was reasonable in predicting the in vitro activity of a novel beta-lactamase inhibitor, and its utility warrants further investigations.
Generational differences in gender attitudes between parents and grown offspring

This study examined generational differences in gender attitudes between parents and grown offspring, includingtheextenttowhichthesedifferencesvaryinfamilies with daughters vs families with sons and in African American vs European American families. Participants included 158 African American and European American men and women (aged 22to49years), their mothers,and their fathers (N=474) recruited predominantly through purchased telephone lists. Participants completed a self-report measure of gender attitudes toward marital and childrearing roles. Mixed method ANOVAs revealed offspring were less traditional than parents, although there were greater generational differ- ences in attitudes between mothers and daughters and in European American families. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for family roles and relationships.
A conceptual model for user-centered quality information retrieval on the World Wide Web

Information retrieval from the Internet is becoming a commonplace phenomenon. Users and consumers are browsing websites and seeking various kinds of information for personal use. Retrieving quality information from the Internet can be challenging even for the computer-savvy. There are several search engines, even some personalized, to help users search for information on the Internet. In spite of all the claims about search engines, users still have difficult time retrieving relevant information quickly. This paper proposes a general conceptual model for user-centered quality information retrieval (UCQIR) from the Internet. The UCQIR conceptual model is presented in an architectural form. The UCQIR architectural model uses the concept of "Task-performer" to present various aspects of an information retrieval system at the knowledge level. Task-performer is an abstract construct used to conceptualize the idea of an entity that is competent in doing its tasks. The UCQIR architectural model can be used to easily design and develop domain-specific, user-centered quality information retrieval systems. The proposed UCQIR conceptual model is unique and comprehensive. The use of the conceptual model is illustrated through a design of a patient-centered quality medical information retrieval for the medical domain. We also present an experimental evaluation of a UCQIR prototype based upon real user experiences. The experimental results are very positive.
TIME-DEPENDENT CURRENT-DENSITY-FUNCTIONAL THEORY APPLIED TO ATOMS AND MOLECULES

We review time-dependent current-density-functional theory with the Vignale–Kohn (VK) functional. Historic background and an extensive discussion of the underlying theory is given. In particular, we focus on the application of VK to atoms and (large) molecules in electric fields. Results obtained with VK are shown and the successes and failures of this functional discussed.
Beyond browsing: shared comments, SOAPs, trails, and on-line communities

Abstract This paper describes a system we have implemented that enables people to share structured in-place annotations attached to material in arbitrary documents on the WWW. The basic conceptual decisions are laid out, and a prototypical example of the client-server interaction is given. We then explain the usage perspective, describe our experience with using the system, and discuss other experimental usages of our prototype implementation, such as collaborative filtering, seals of approval, and value-added trails. We show how this is a specific instantiation of a more general “virtual document” architecture in which, with the help of light-weight distributed meta information, viewed documents can incorporate material that is dynamically integrated from multiple distributed sources. Development of that architecture is part of a larger project on Digital Libraries that we are engaged in.
Intraspinal dislocation of the rib in neurofibromatosis: A case report

Scoliosis is the most common skeletal abnormality in neurofibromatosis, occurring in at least 10% of patients [1, 2]. Spinal MR is commonly used to assess the intraspinal contents prior to surgery for scoliosis.
Contours for a Public Lutheran Theology in the Face of Empire

: Three themes structure Lutheranism's interpretation of the biblical narrative as it intersects with the present challenges of Empire: justification by faith as a declaration of inclusiveness; God's threefold-multidimensional action creating and sustaining democratic practices (two kingdoms); and the cross as the critical ‘weapon’ against the ‘glory’ of Empire. This implies placing our theology within the present cultural and religious debate in a way consistent with the methodology of the cross: a theology done from the bowels of Empire, revealing its true face behind its alleged ‘benevolent’ mask.
Letter on “Ethical Problems in Psychiatric Research”

I have read with some concern the article titled "Ethical Problems in Psychiatric Research" by Lehrman and Sharav. 1 The claims made in this article regarding the research at the Bronx Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center are both misleading and inaccurate. Well known to at least one of the authors, if not both, was the letter that appeared in The New York Times. 2 Two additional facts are worth considering. At the time this study was conceived in the late 1970s, the state of California mandated that all patients in their chronic psychiatric facilities undergo a drug holiday at least once a year in the hope of both reducing the risk of tardive dyskinesia and determining their need for prolonged neuroleptic treatment. In addition, it was established in studies of relapse prevention and medication discontinuation that up to 20% of patients can be maintained for up to a year without relapse. Thus, the desire to identify those patients who might not need prolonged neuroleptics to decrease their risk of tardive dyskinesia was, in 1979, a commendable goal, as it remains today. Despite repeated contacts with the authors, both in person and through written communication, the Lehrman and Sharav ~ article continues to regard "relapse" not as an operationalized small increase in symptomatology, as was defined in the Bronx study, but rather as a profound change in state more consonant with a layperson's experience. This confusion has been used repeatedly to disparage the Bronx VA investigators despite what was the reality of this investigation. One wonders whether this continued misleading discourse is truly in the best interest of the patients the authors of this article alleged to protect. Attacks on the community of researchers and scholars dedicated to the elucidation of the biology of schizophrenia and the development of new treatments serve no one, least of all the victims of schizophrenia.
Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders in Adolescent Patients: Transitioning to Adult Care

A wide spectrum of gastrointestinal motility disorders present in childhood. Some are unique to children, especially congenital disorders including certain pseudo-obstruction disorders or those associated with anatomic developmental defects, whereas others are common adult disorders, such as achalasia, that rarely manifest in children. This article reviews the pediatric presentations and sequelae of childhood gastrointestinal motility disorders and then discusses long-term management issues for these children as they progress into adulthood. The goal is to optimize medical care and ensure the adequate nutritional status essential for neurocognitive and psychosocial development of the child. Multidisciplinary care from specialists, including gastroenterologists, psychologists, and pain specialists, is often required to optimize the lives of these patients.
Microscopic theory of the dynamics of polymeric liquids: General formulation of a mode–mode‐coupling approach

A formally exact, nonlinear generalized Langevin equation (GLE) for a flexible probe polymer in a dense melt has been derived using molecular phase space kinetic theory and Mori–Zwanzig projection operator techniques. An approximate, linearized dynamic memory function is developed, and the resulting GLE is specialized to the problem of an overdamped liquid of uncrossable Rouse polymers. An analytically tractable, perturbative/short time evaluation of the projected force time correlation function matrix is proposed which accounts for uncorrelated intermolecular pair interaction effects in the polymer melt. The detailed predictions for transport coefficients and various time correlation functions are determined for linear chains, and compared with recent lattice Monte Carlo simulations. Significant slowing down of all dynamical processes relative to the Rouse behavior is found, but the molecular weight scaling is not correctly described. A nonperturbative approach based on a polymeric generalization of mole...
Attributed linear intermediate representations for retargetable code generators

This paper illustrates the usefulness of an attributed prefix linear intermediate representation for compiler code generation. In separating the machine-independent and machine-dependent aspects of a compiler, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of an attributed linear intermediate representation with respect to tree-structured intermediate representations. Some of these issues are relevant to fundamental questions of compiler structure with particular emphasis on retargetability. We discuss our implementation experience using this linear intermediate representation with a table-driven code generation scheme for a variety of target architectures.
Low dose quinidine-mexiletine combination therapy versus quinidine monotherapy for treatment of ventricular arrhythmias.

Abstract Low dose quinidine-mexiletine combination therapy was compared with quinidine monotherapy in 15 patients with frequent ventricular premature complexes and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia in a dose escalation crossover study. Oral combination therapy was initiated with quinidine gluconate (165 mg) plus mexiletine (150 mg) every 8 h. If ventricular premature complexes were not suppressed ≥80% and nonsustained ventricular tachycardia ≥90%, the dose was increased to a maximum of 330 mg of quinidine plus 200 mg of mexiletine. Quinidine monotherapy was initiated with 330 mg and escalated to a maximum of 660 mg every 8 h if criteria for effectiveness were not met. Combination quinidine-mexiletine therapy suppressed 80% of ventricular premature complexes in 13 of 14 patients and suppressed 100% of episodes of ventricular tachycardia in 6 of 8 patients (mean quinidine dose 200 ±70 mg; mean mexiletine dose 146 ± 24 mg every 8 h). The mean effective trough quinidine and mexiletine concentration was 1.0 ± 0.7 and 0.9 ± 0.4 μg/ml, respectively. Monotherapy was less effective; that is, ≥80% suppression of ventricular premature complexes was observed in 5 of 15 patients and 100% suppression of ventricular tachycardia in 2 of 9 patients. The mean quinidine monotherapy dose was 462 ± 155 mg every 8 h; the mean quinidine concentration was 1.8 ± 0.8 μg/ml. Adverse systemic effects occurred in 3 patients on quinidine-mexiletine therapy and in 11 on quinidine monotherapy. Neither treatment prolonged PR or QRS intervals, but monotherapy prolonged the QTc interval (p
Rhizocephalan infection modifies host food consumption by reducing host activity levels

Abstract Although castration by rhizocephalans on crab species is well documented, the accompanying effects of infection on behavior and metabolism have remained relatively unstudied. In this investigation, we examined flat back mud crab ( Eurypanopeus depressus ) physiology and behavior in an attempt to elucidate why infected crabs exhibit a previously documented reduced functional response. Crab respiration and digestion rates were analyzed to determine if infection altered metabolic rate. Laboratory behavioral experiments and a field survey were conducted to determine how infection alters crab feeding behavior and activity levels. Although we found no statistical difference between infected and uninfected crab metabolic or digestive rates, we discovered that, both in the lab and in the field, infected crabs exhibited substantially altered behavior. In the laboratory infected crabs reacted nearly 3 times slower to the presence of prey and spent over 22% more of their time hiding, whereas uninfected crabs were significantly more active. During field sampling, infected crabs were significantly more likely to be found hiding within empty oyster shells while uninfected crabs spent more time in the exposed positions of the habitat. We conclude that rhizocephalans can reduce the host functional response by altering host behavior. Here, these induced changes can impact community structure by altering trophic interactions so that infected crabs spend less time foraging and more time hiding, potentially reducing their predation risk.
'The Mentor's Quality Determines the Probability of Success of the Young Researcher'

In this interview, Professor Makoto Otsuki points out the importance of mentorship during young researchers' development. Dr. Otsuki, a Professor and Chair of the Third Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Occupational and Environmental Health, has contributed significantly to the field of pancreatic physiology. In addition, his epidemiological research has been fundamental for understanding the pathogenesis of pancreatitis and establishment of the guidelines for its diagnosis and improvement of case fatality.
Prognostic factors in Merkel cell carcinoma: Analysis of 240 cases

Background Knowledge regarding behavior of and prognostic factors for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is limited. Objective We sought to further understand the characteristics, behavior, prognostic factors, and optimal treatment of MCC. Methods A multicenter, retrospective, consecutive study of patients with known primary MCC was completed. Overall survival and survival free of locoregional recurrence were calculated and statistical analysis of characteristics and outcomes was performed. Results Among the 240 patients, the mean age at diagnosis was 70.1 years, 168 (70.0%) were male, and the majority was Caucasian. The most common location was head and neck (111, 46.3%). Immunosuppressed patients had significantly worse survival, with an overall 3-year survival of 43.4% compared with 68.1% in immunocompetent patients. In our study, patients with stage II disease had improved overall survival versus those with stage I disease, in a statistically significant manner. Patients with stage III disease had significantly worse survival compared with stage I and with stage II. Primary tumor size did not predict nodal involvement. Conclusion The data presented represent one of the largest series of primary MCC in the literature and confirm that MCC of all sizes has metastatic potential, supporting sentinel lymph node biopsy for all primary MCC. Because of the unpredictable natural history of MCC, we recommend individualization of care based on the details of each patient's tumor and clinical presentation.
Search and Insights into Novel Genetic Alterations Leading to Classical and Atypical Werner Syndrome

Segmental progeroid syndromes are a group of disorders with multiple features resembling accelerated aging. Adultonset Werner syndrome (WS) and childhood-onset Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome are the best known examples. The discovery of genes responsible for such syndromes has facilitated our understanding of the basic mechanisms of aging as well as the pathogenesis of other common, agerelated diseases. Our International Registry of Werner Syndrome accesses progeroid pedigrees from all over the world, including those for whom we have ruled out a mutation at the WRN locus. Cases without WRN mutations are operationally categorized as ‘atypical WS’ (AWS). In 2003, we identified LMNA mutations among a subset of AWS cases using a candidate gene approach. As of 2013, the Registry has 142 WS patients with WRN mutations, 11 AWS patients with LMNA mutations, and 49 AWS patients that have neither WRN nor LMNA mutations. Efforts are underway to identify the responsible genes for AWS with unknown genetic causes. While WS and AWS are rare disorders, the causative genes have been shown to have much wider implications for cancer, cardiovascular disease and the biology of aging. Re
Relational Aspects of Mindfulness: Implications for the Practice of Marriage and Family Therapy

Research has demonstrated the benefits of mindfulness interventions with individuals, including connections to increased life satisfaction, and positive affect. Mindfulness has effectively treated anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, chronic pain, and addiction. Recent studies show the positive effects of mindfulness on relationship satisfaction, empathy development, and skillful communication. We explore the potential benefits for integrating mindfulness, defined as nonjudgmental awareness, into the practice of marriage and family therapy. We argue that mindfulness may be useful with couples and families to improve communication, emotional regulation, empathy, and relationship well-being. Finally, we discuss practical ways of applying mindfulness in family therapy.
Earthquakes and Block Tectonics in the Illinois Basin

Historic earthquakes in Illinois occur on faults that have been intermittently active since Precambrian time. Vertical deflection of the lithosphere continues, but at an abbreviated pace. Evidence for this statement follows: (1) blocks of undeformed and coherent Precambrian lithosphere are outlined by gravity closures; (2) Paleozoic strata are folded and, in most cases, unfaulted over Precambrian blocks that have undergone vertical, differential displacements; (3) gravity closures, which contain negative residuals, overlie crustal blocks that have moved upward relative to blocks that are overlain by gravity closures, which contain positive residuals; and (4) historic earthquakes are not located within closures but are in high gravity gradient areas on the edges of closures or in the lower gradient areas lying between closures.
Effects of Stress-Relieving Slots on Fretting Fatigue Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V

Fretting is a complex phenomenon, it alters the stress and strain fields in the contact region between two bodies, due to micro-slip, which decreases the fatigue resistance of materials. This study investigates the effect of stress-relieving slots, machined in flat pads, on the fretting fatigue behavior of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Three types of slots including U-notch, V-notch, and a simple hole were used. Conventional fretting fatigue model, involving a contact between a flat pad with rounded edges and a fatigue specimen loaded by a cyclic axial load, was used. Several fretting fatigue parameters such as the maximum tensile stress, Smith Watson Topper, Maximum Shear Stress Range, and MSSR parameters were considered for this study. The stress, strain, and displacement distribution in the contact region of fatigue specimen were computed using the finite element analysis code ABAQUS. The data were used to calculate the fretting fatigue parameters and evaluate the effectiveness of the slots in improving the fretting fatigue resistance. The analytical results were verified by the experimental data.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Pretextual stops, vehicle searches, and crime control: an examination of strategies used on the frontline of the war on drugs

This study uses the narratives from affidavits for warrantless arrest from two police agencies to examine the strategy of using pretextual traffic stops for drug interdiction. Officers stop a vehicle, arrest the driver on a minor offense, and then use vehicle searches to transform minor infractions into felony drug arrests. The case study illustrates how discretion, profiling, and aggressive use of search and seizure come together. The drug convictions initiated through traffic stops were overwhelmingly discretionary and seemingly pretextual, and the arrests that led to findings of contraband were themselves discretionary and mere pretexts for conducting extensive searches of automobiles and persons.
Financial acumen, women speculators, and the Royal African company during the South Sea bubble

Abstract Price bubbles provide a unique opportunity to study the financial acumen of shareholders. We focus on the 1720 South Sea episode as experienced by the Royal African Company whose stock was more speculative than other joint stocks. During 1720 the company had a new large stock issue. This paper examines the financial acumen of those women who traded senior and engrafted stock across 1720. We find that depending on the pricing regime, these women at worst broke even on their activities or had positive speculative gains. Our findings are consistent with a growing literature on the positive link between gender, capital gains and financial markets.
New polymeric surfactants from butadiene, urea and sulfuric acid

Butadiene, urea, and sulfuric acid react to form a new sulfated polymer. The sodium salt of the polymer, called BUS, is a good detergent and dispersant; it is practically nontoxic and nonirritating. BUS-soap blends are good detergents for use in hard water. BUS can be precipitated from waste water by heavy metal salts and can be removed by percolation through soil.
Transformers for new Switchgear testing laboratory

FGR HIGH-VOLTAGE short-circuit testing of circuit breakers, fuses, disconnect switches, and so forth, at the new high-capacity Switchgear Testing Laboratory of the General Electric Company, Philadelphia, Pa., two 1,100,000-kva short-circuit transformers were installed.
Impact of adsorbed petroleum hydrocarbons on marine organisms

Abstract Adsorptions of south Louisiana crude oil from seawater by clays, non-clay minerals and sediments were conducted in the laboratory. Effect of sediment-adsorbed and water dispersed crude oil on adult oysters were investigated in aquaria. Hydrocarbons in oyster tissues and surrounding water were identified by gas chromatography. Field specimens from an area of a new oil spill and an area five months after an oil spill were also analysed. Evidence of secondary chemical effect of aged oil in sediments on oyster mortality is presented. Oil coated asbestos surfaces severely reduced recruitment of sedentary larval organisms.
Daclizumab therapy in kidney transplantation-different mechanisms of action in- versus ex-vivo?

Abstract Stimulated human T cells from healthy volunteers demonstrate attenuated early interleukin (IL)-2 receptor (R) signaling in the presence of daclizumab (Dac). Aiming to confirm that this ex-vivo effect of Dac is also observed in-vivo, we studied T cells from 3 kidney transplant recipients before and 2–3 weeks and 4–6 months after transplantation. We found by flow cytometry that T cells obtained pre-transplant and stimulated ex-vivo with phytohemeagglutinine upregulated the IL-2R α-(CD25) and β-(CD122) chains as expected. Moreover, exogenous IL-2 induced characteristic tyrosine phosphorylation events detectable by immunoblotting in these cells. However, T cells studied post-transplant neither exhibited CD25 or -122 upregulation nor IL-2-induced tyrosine phosphorylation events, indicating broad, persistent suppression of the IL-2R signaling machinery which thus appears largely inaccessible for Dac in actual transplant recipients. We therefore conclude that the clinical efficacy of this agent may depend on additional mechanisms in-vivo other than those identified ex-vivo.
An Experimental Investigation of the Control of Surge in Radial Compressors Using Close Coupled Resistances

The aerodynamic characteristics of centrifugal compressors are examined with special attention given to the range of flows normally in the unstable region. They are examined for the intended purpose of extending the compressor’s useful stable range. Two such means are investigated, but a close coupled aerodynamic resistance designed to achieve negative combined slope showed the greater promise. A number of experiments are performed in which the geometry and location of the close coupled control devices are varied. It is shown that with adequate design, stable operation is possible down to 40 percent of the normal surge flow. This can be done with hardware the configuration of which is practical and with attendant additional losses which are not prohibitive. The rationale and the empirical work are devoted to the single stage case but an examination is made of the stability considerations for the case of multi-stage machines.
Chemical and thermal nonequilibrium heat transfer analysis for hypervelocity, low Reynolds number flow

Chemical and thermal nonequilibrium phenomena are studied in the stagnation region of a hypervelocity blunt body. This investigation is motivated by the need to predict the heat-transfer rate to the leading edge of aeromaneuvering orbital transfer vehicles. Flight speeds of approximately 10 km/s at altitudes of approximately 80 km are considered for body radii of 1-50 cm. The analysis is based on continuum theory and is applicable to the viscous and incipient merged layer regimes of rarefied flow. A two-species, two-temperature gas model is assumed. Comparisons are made with previous theories, experimental data, and results based on the thermodynamic equilibrium assumption. The equation accounting for vibrational nonequilibrium is presented and its effects on flow properties are discussed. Parameters requiring further investigation are identified. Preliminary results indicate that the inclusion of vibrational relaxation has little effect on the heat-transfer rate for a fully catalytic surface. However, vibrational nonequilibrium may increase the heat-transfer rate to a noncatalytic surface, depending on the degree of nonequilibrium.
The Effects of Teacher Expectations, Gender, and Behavior on Pupil Academic Performance and Self-Concept

AbstractTen professional and 10 peer teachers were videotaped while teaching a short lesson to a total of 80 students, some of whom the teachers had been told had exceptional ability. Detailed codings and ratings of the videotapes allowed an examination of the interrelationships among teacher expectations, gender, teaching behaviors, and student outcome measures of cognitive performance and academic self-concept. Results showed significant differences in teaching behaviors between the peer and adult teachers; reliable sex differences in teaching behavior were found for the peer teachers only. No significant effects were found for teachers* manipulated expectations for students' performance. Multiple regression analyses using cognitive performance and academic self-concept as dependent variables revealed that better student outcomes were positively associated with such variables as task orientation, explanation, nonverbal warmth, praising, and no interruption of lesson to give feedback, and were negatively...
POSTOPERATIVE VAGINAL CUFF IRRADIATION USING HIGH DOSE RATE REMOTE AFTERLOADING: A PHASE II CLINICAL PROTOCOL

Purpose : In September 1989, a postoperative Phase II high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy protocol was started for International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Stage I endometrial adenocarcinoma. This review reports the overall survival, local control, and complication rates for the initial 63 patients treated in this Phase II study. Methods and Materials : High dose rate brachytherapy was delivered using an Iridium-192 HDR remote afterloader. Sixty-three patients were entered into the Phase II protocol, each receiving two vaginal cuff treatments 1 week apart (range 4-12 days) with vaginal ovoids (diameter 2.0-3.0 cm). No patient received adjuvant external beam radiation. A dose of 32.4 Gy in two fractions was prescribed to the ovoid surface in 63 patients. The first three patients treated at our institution received 15, 16.2, and 29 Gy, respectively, to determine acute effects. Results : At a median follow-up of 1.6 years (range 0.75-4.3 years) no patient has developed a vaginal cuff recurrence. One regional recurrence (1.6%) occurred at 1.2 years at the pelvic side wall. This patient is alive and without evidence of disease 7 months after completion of salvage irradiation, which resulted in the only vaginal stenosis (1.6%). Fourteen patients (22%) experienced vaginal apex fibrosis by physical exam, which was clinically symptomatic in four patients. Two patients reported stress incontinence ; however, these symptoms were noted prior to their HDR therapy. One patient died 2.4 years after HDR therapy due to cardiovascular disease without evidence of cancer at autopsy. Conclusion : Preliminary results of our phase II HDR vaginal cuff protocol for postoperative FIGO Stage IA, Grade 3 or Stage IB, Grade 1-2 patients demonstrate that 32.4 Gy in two fractions is well tolerated by the vaginal cuff mucosa. Local control appears comparable to our prior experience and others with low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy. Additional patient accrual and further follow-up will better determine the late morbidity, local control, and overall survival of these patients.
In Situ Fiber Strengths in Ceramic‐Matrix Composites from Fracture Mirrors

The in situ breaking stresses of pulled-out fibers on the fracture surface of a fiber-reinforced composite can be determined ex post facto from a measurement of the fracture mirrors on the surfaces of the fibers. Here, the relationship between the resultant distribution of breaking stresses and the true in situ fiber strength distribution, as characterized by a Weibull modulus m and characteristic strength sigma(c), is derived for composites that fail after the first matrix crack has propagated. Specifically, it is demonstrated that, if the true in situ parameters are m and sigma(c), then the distribution of breaking stresses is well approximated by a Weibull form with apparent Weibull modulus m* and apparent characteristic strength S*. The relationships between m* and m, and S* and sigma(c), are presented, and these results allow for the conversion of fracture mirror data, or any fracto-graphic determination of fiber strength, to the true strength parameters necessary for predicting/interpreting composite performance.
Increased Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthase in Hypothalamic Neuronal Regeneration

This investigation deals with the histochemical and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) correlates that depict regeneration of the neurohypophyseal system that may be nitric oxide dependent following hypophysectomy in the rodent hypothalamus. NOS histochemistry and correlative SEM were employed to establish the rates of regrowth and appearance of NOS-positive supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) neurites and their cell bodies following hypophysectomy. NOS activity increased significantly in SON and PVN neuronal perikarya and regenerating axons by 2 weeks. NOS-positive neurites were observed to regrow into the adjacent median eminence and insinuate into the lumen of the third cerebral ventricle. By 4 weeks posthypophysectomy, NOS staining of SON and PVN neurons and their regrown neurites had returned to normal control levels. Despite this fact, large complexes of apparent magnocellular neurites remained upon the floor of the third cerebral ventricle as observed with SEM. These observations support the hypothesis that NO may play a fundamental role in the process of regeneration, plasticity, and retargeting of SON and PVN axons following injury.