cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Picosecond Time-Resolved Resonance Raman Spectroscopy Of Bacteriorhodopsin Intermediates

The value of bacteriorhodopsin (BR) as a model for the molecular dynamics associated with the retinal chromophore in visual pigments and for the associated proton and ion pumping mechanisms across membranes has been described extensively [1–3]. Although many aspects of both the BR dynamics and the structures of BR intermediates have been reported [2–3], significant parts of the molecular mechanism underlying its biochemical function remain either unknown or only partially characterized. One such area encompasses the initial molecular changes that occur upon radiative excitation of BR. This initial phase of the “BR photocycle” is followed by a complex series of interdependent changes in molecular bonding, conformation, and environment of both the retinal chromophore and the opsin. These changes drive proton pumping across the bacterial membrane, the function which underlies the biochemical activity of BR [1–3]. Since the chemical energy for this series of processes is thought to derive from these initial steps, an understanding of the specific molecular changes is of considerable importance.
Using Quality Function Deployment as a Framework for Process Measurement

ABSTRACTThis article discusses adopting quality function deployment to develop an effective and efficient process measurement program. The project was conducted at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) in Norfolk, Virginia, over a 5-month period. The objective was to develop a measurement program for a software maintenance by identifying the critical metrics for the entire process. As a result, 23 quality metrics were developed for NUWC's process measurement program. Also discussed are the benefits achieved during the quality function deployment process.
Vegetational Affinities, Arboreal Activity, and Coexistence of Three Species of Rodents

Habitat utilization by Peromyscus boylii, P. maniculatus , and Neotoma stephensi was studied by live trapping marked animals on grids in a variety of local habitats in eastcentral Arizona. None of the species exhibited clear-cut affinities for specific plant taxa; rather, the types of flora used by each species varied from grid to grid. P. boylii tended to use a wide variety of vegetational microhabitats, but almost always was captured in higher frequencies than expected in the commonest type(s) at a locality. P. maniculatus showed much more restricted habitat utilization, but where it did occur, it tended to be captured in the most prevalent vegetation more often than expected. N. stephensi also occurred in a restricted range of microhabitats, and it usually utilized rarer vegetational types. Live trapping on platforms permanently affixed in trees, on logs, and in the canopies of bushes revealed arboreal activity. P. maniculatus spent much less time in above-ground activity than did the other two species. Both N. stephensi and P. boylii climbed in plants of a variety of taxa, shapes, and heights. However, P. boylii tended to use more types of the available above-ground resources and to climb higher than N. stephensi . The amount and nature of each species' arboreal activity did not differ significantly between woodland and shrubland habitats.
P300 variability during target detection in natural images: implications for single-trial classification

References The P300 is one of the most prominent and well-studied event-related potentials (ERPs) in the literature. The P300 is also a primary discriminant signal for many brain-computer interface (BCI) systems. It has been well established that the P300 amplitude and latency, along with reaction time, are directly linked to target discriminability. However, since the majority of P300 studies using an odd-ball or target-detection paradigm have a fixed or unquantified level of target discriminability, it remains unclear how the P300 is systematically modulated by stimulus properties affecting target detection. In this study we quantified visual properties of target objects within a large ensemble of natural images. Using a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) paradigm, we were able to systematically measure the effect of these properties on the behavioral reaction time (RT), P300, and single-trial classification accuracy. ERP & Single-trial Classification Target Size & P300 Group Effects
Analysis of the conditionally cubic-Gaussian stochastic Lagrangian model

The basis for the conditionally cubic-Gaussian (CCG) stochastic Lagrangian model (Lamorgese et al 2007 J. Fluid Mech. 582 423) is briefly reviewed and its large-time behaviour further addressed. To this end, we perform additional multiple-scales calculations which support the adiabatic elimination result of our previous analysis. Lagrangian intermittency in the CCG model is briefly addressed and found to be consistent with the findings of previous works.
Abstract 1579: Depletion of GAPDH promotes p53 signaling, cell senescence and altered response to chemotherapeutic agents in human carcinoma cells

Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a pivotal enzyme of the glycolytic pathway; it also plays a role of a signaling/regulator molecule in several cellular networks. In this study, we used human lung carcinoma A549 and renal carcinoma UO-31 cell lines to elucidate the role of GAPDH in cell proliferation and cellular response to genotoxic drugs. Using RNA interference technology, we decreased GAPDH protein level 4-5-fold in A549 cells, and 2-3-fold in UO-31 cells. Depletion of GAPDH in cultured cells blocked cell cycle progression in G1 phase, and induced activation of p53 and accumulation of p21. Simultaneously, GAPDH-depleted cells manifested biomarkers of senescence as revealed by morphological changes and induction of SA-β-galactosidase activity. Inhibition of GAPDH synthesis in human carcinoma cells resulted in 3-4-fold ATP depletion, and induced cell growth arrest without AMPK phosphorylation. In contrast, inhibition of glycolysis by 2-deoxyglucose treatment resulted in decreased ATP level and AMPK phosphorylation but did not induce cell senescence. These results suggest that GAPDH depletion in A549 cell line activates p53 independently of AMPK activation, and mediates the induction of signaling pathways leading to senescence. Importantly, GAPDH knockdown in p53-proficient A549 and UO-31 cells resulted in 3-50-fold decreased cytotoxicity of antimetabolite drugs including deoxy-thioguanosine, cladribine, fluoro-ribouridine, fluoruracil, 2-chloroadenosine, mercaptopurine, azacytidine and cytarabine. The results of this study indicate that cytotoxic activity of antimetabolite nucleoside analogs is modulated by the status of GAPDH in the cancer cells. Cell senescence induced by depletion of GAPDH is a plausible mechanism of cell resistance to antimetabolites, a hypothesis being under investigation in our lab. In addition, our data indicate that GAPDH-depleting agents could be promising cytostatic drugs. This work was supported by NCI grant R01 CA104729 Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1579.
Immunological aspects of pancreatic islet cell transplantation

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most common diseases of childhood. Insulin discovery changed the clinical course of T1DM from an acutely fatal disease to a chronic disease, but this discovery was later found to be inefficient to control its long-term complications. Whole-pancreas and islet cell transplantation seem to provide a potential solution by restoring the normal physiology of glucose-insulin homeostasis. Although islet transplantation is less invasive than whole-pancreas transplantation, the insulin-free state after islet transplantation remained low (10%) at 5 years after surgery. Here, we will present the specific immunologic challenges that are specific to islet cell transplantation, including instant blood-mediated inflammatory reaction and the recurrence of autoimmunity. We will also briefly discuss the immunosuppressive regimens used and the recent radiologic techniques in the detection of engraftment and early rejection of islet cells.
It has been said that, “There are three degrees of falsehoods: Lies, damn lies, and statistics”☆

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) researchers have historically eschewed population-based, inferential statistics, preferring to conduct and analyze repeated observations of each participant's responding under carefully controlled and manipulated experimental conditions using single-case designs (SCDs). In addition, early attempts to adapt traditional statistical procedures for use with SCDs often involved trade-offs between experimental and statistical control that most ABA researchers have found undesirable. The statistical methods recommended for use with SCDs in the current special issue represent a welcome departure from such prior suggestions in that the current authors are proposing that SCD researchers add statistical methods to their current practices in ways that do not alter traditional SCD practices. Further refinement and use of such methods would (a) facilitate the inclusion of research using SCDs in meta-analyses and (b) aid in the development and planning of grant-funded research using SCD methods. Collaboration between SCD researchers and statisticians, particularly on research that demonstrates the benefit of these methods, may help promote their acceptance and use in ABA.
Newborn categorization of vowel‐like sounds

While there are many theories of the development of speech perception, there are few data on speech perception in human newborns. This paper examines the manner in which newborns responded to a set of stimuli that define one surface of the adult vowel space. Experiment 1 used a preferential listening/habituation paradigm to discover how newborns divide that vowel space. Results indicated that there were zones of high preference flanked by zones of low preference. The zones of high preference approximately corresponded to areas where adults readily identify vowels. Experiment 2 presented newborns with pairs of vowels from the zones found in Experiment 1. One member of each pair was the most preferred vowel from a zone, and the other member was the least preferred vowel from the adjacent zone of low preference. The pattern of preference was preserved in Experiment 2. However, a comparison of Experiments 1 and 2 indicated that habituation had occurred in Experiment 1. Experiment 3 tested the hypothesis that the habituation seen in Experiment 1 was due to processes of categorization, by using a familiarization preference paradigm. The results supported the hypothesis that newborns categorized the vowel space in an adult-like manner, with vowels perceived as relatively good or poor exemplars of a vowel category.
Androgen receptors in a Syrian hamster ductus deferens tumour cell line

WE have established in culture a cloned line of hamster ductus deferens cells that contains a saturable, high affinity testosterone receptor protein. These cells exhibit an increased rate of DNA synthesis in response to testosterone and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment, although they probably do not require either androgen for survival. We believe this is the first description of a cloned cell line that exhibits a growth response to a physiological dose of androgen. The mechanism of action of the steroid may be similar to that in the normal tissue of origin.
Altered expression of transmembrane mucins, MUC1 and MUC4, in bladder cancer: pathological implications in diagnosis.

Purpose Radical changes in both expression and glycosylation pattern of transmembrane mucins have been observed in various malignancies. We and others have shown that MUC1 and MUC4, two transmembrane mucins, play a sentinel role in cell signaling events that drive several epithelial malignancies. In the present study, we investigated the expression profile of MUC1 and MUC4 in the non-neoplastic bladder urothelium, in various malignant neoplasms of bladder and in bladder carcinoma cell lines. Material and Methods Immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue sections from the urinary bladder biopsies, resection samples and tissue microarrays (TMAs) with monoclonal antibodies specific for MUC1 and MUC4. We also investigated their expression in bladder carcinoma cell lines by RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Results MUC1 is expressed on the apical surface or in umbrella cells of the normal non-neoplastic bladder urothelium. Strong expression of MUC1 was also observed in urothelial carcinoma (UC). MUC1 staining increased from normal urothelium (n = 27, 0.35±0.12) to urothelial carcinoma (UC, n = 323, H-score, 2.4±0.22, p≤0.0001). In contrast to MUC1, MUC4 was expressed in all the layers of non-neoplastic bladder urothelium (n = 14, 2.5±0.28), both in the cell membrane and cytoplasm. In comparison to non-neoplastic urothelium, the loss of MUC4 expression was observed during urothelial carcinoma (n = 211, 0.56±0.06). However, re-expression of MUC4 was observed in a subset of metastatic cases of urothelial carcinoma (mean H-score 0.734±0.9). Conclusion The expression of MUC1 is increased while that of MUC4 decreased in UC compared to the normal non-neoplastic urothelium. Expression of both MUC1 and MUC4, however, are significantly higher in urothelial carcinoma metastatic cases compared to localized UC. These results suggest differential expression of MUC1 and MUC4 during development and progression of bladder carcinoma.
A conceptual model for freshwater mussel (family: Unionidae) remain preservation in zooarchaeological assemblages

Expectations for survival of vertebrate remains have been well developed and intensely studied in the zooarchaeological taphonomic literature. Taphonomic studies of shellfish remains focus on marine species and on variables relevant to remains from paleontological contexts (e.g., fossil marine beds). In this paper we develop a conceptual framework from which to derive expectations concerning the preservation of freshwater mussel remains focusing on two parameters, shell microstructure and shell shape. Shell size does not influence survivorship. Our model is validated through application to late Holocene zooarchaeological mussel assemblages from north Texas. Taphonomically robust species are important regarding zooarchaeological and biogeographic interpretations based on mussel paleofaunas, and fragile species are important indicators of whether or not an assemblage is well preserved.
Controversial controversies in the history of anthropology

Service, Elman R. A Century of Controversy: Ethnological Issues from 1860 to 1960. Orlando, Florida: Academic Press, 1985. xii + 351 pp. including bibliography and index. $48.00 cloth.
Microbiology and management of infected solid tumours

Infection has been recognized as one of the major obstacles to the successful management of patients with malignant tumours. Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria of endogenous source are a major cause of infections in the necrotic tumour, especially when they occur in proximity to a site where these bacteria reside as part of the normal flora. Although surgical removal or evacuation of the purulent fluid is preferred, this is not always feasible in a patient with a malignant tumour. Antimicrobial therapy against potential bacterial pathogens is often the sole therapy or is used along with surgical drainage or removal of the infected area. This review describes the microbiology and management of infection in necrotic tumours.
Mechanisms of degradation of graphite composites in a simulated space environment

Attention is given to degradation mechanisms for graphite/polysulfone and graphite/epoxy laminates exposed to ultraviolet and high-energy electron radiation in vacuum up to 960 equivalent sun hours and to 10 to the 9th rads, respectively. The materials showed good electron radiation stability as indicated by the low G values for gas formation and no evidence of mechanical property changes. Quantum yields for gas formation indicate poor stability to ultraviolet radiation. Mechanical property measurements did not show significant changes up to 960 ESH, with the possible exception of P1700/C6000. The main products of irradiation were identified as hydrogen and methane, along with high levels of CO and CO2.
Equivalent ear canal volumes in children pre- and post-tympanostomy tube insertion.

Pre- and postoperative equivalent ear canal volume measures were obtained from a group of 334 children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 6.7 years. The purpose of the study was to develop volumetric g...
Reduction of stuttering: the dual inhibition hypothesis.

Treatment for stuttering attempts to reduce or eliminate the observable core markers of the disorder, specifically repetitions and prolongation. In this hypothesis, it is proposed that stuttering may be inhibited by two distinct yet related procedures: active inhibition and passive inhibition. Active inhibition is brought about when the person who stutters makes volitional changes to his or her speaking pattern, such as when employing behavioral modification techniques. Passive inhibition automatically inhibits the involuntary stuttering block and can be induced from an external source, such as altered auditory feedback, or by the use of sufficient active inhibition. It is suggested that passively inhibiting stuttering results in speech that is more automatic, natural sounding, and truly fluent speech than the speech that is derived primarily from active inhibition. Evidence of passive inhibition resulting from active inhibition can be seen when people who stutter exhibit uncontrolled fluency following behavioral therapy.
A New Molybdenum Production Element for Implementation in TRIGA Reactors: Thermal-Hydraulic Characterization

AbstractOregon State University (OSU) has developed and patented a technology that produces 99Mo within a standard TRIGA reactor core and does not negatively impact safety bases for the operations of such reactor designs. This new technology, referred to as the “molybdenum element,” is intended on being demonstrated within the OSU TRIGA Reactor (OSTR) with figures of merit including 99Mo yield and operation. A comprehensive design and thermal-hydraulic analysis has been conducted to characterize the safety-related traits of the molybdenum element to facilitate a license amendment through the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to insert such an experiment in the OSTR.This study details the thermal-hydraulic characteristics of the molybdenum element exhibited within the OSTR under the three sets of conditions necessary to demonstrate the element’s safety. The study leverages the lumped-parameter code RELAP5-3D Version 2.4.2 for conduct of the primary body of this work. The first condition analyzes the molyb...
Reactive Deposition of Metal Thin Films within Porous Supports from Supercritical Fluids

Continuous palladium films were synthesized at controlled depths within porous alumina disks by H2 reduction of organopalladium compounds dissolved in supercritical CO2 at 60 °C using an opposing reactants deposition geometry. Film position was controlled by adjusting the relative concentrations of H2 and the palladium precursor (π-2-methylallyl(cyclopentadienyl)palladium (II) or palladium(II) hexafluoroacetylacetonate) on opposite sides of the alumina substrate. Because of a disparity in the diffusivity of the metal precursor and H2 in the support, a temporary barrier of poly-4-methyl-1-pentene on the H2 side of the alumina substrate was used to reduce H2 flux in a controlled manner. Guided by a simple mass transport model, Pd films between 2 and 80 μm thick were deposited at prescribed depths between 80 and 600 μm as measured from the precursor side. Electron probe microanalysis indicated complete pore filling of the porous alumina at the reaction zone and X-ray diffraction revealed that the structure o...
Blood Parasites of American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Fish Crows (Corvus ossifragus) in Florida, U.S.A.

Blood films from 46 fish crows (Corvus ossifragus Wilson) and 42 American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos Brehm) from Florida, U.S.A., were examined for blood parasites. Haemoproteus picae Coatney and Roudabush, Haemoproteus danilewskii Kruse, Trypanosoma avium (Danilewsky), and microfilariae of an unidentified filarioid were identified from both species of crows. An unidentified species of Haemoproteus and Trypanosoma ontarioensis Woo and Bartlett were observed in American crow blood films. Fish crow blood films contained Plasmodium relictum Celli and Sanfelice. Prior to this study, T. avium and P. relictum had not been reported from fish crows.
Hy-Line W-36 and Hy-Line W-98 laying hens respond similarly to dietary phosphorus levels

Two experiments were conducted to determine if 2 laying hen strains, Hy-Line W-36 and Hy-Line W-98, would respond similarly to being fed corn-soybean meal diets (17% CP and 3.8% Ca) deficient in nonphytate P (NPP). In experiment 1, 3 diets with varying NPP levels (0.10, 0.14, and 0.45%) were fed to 6 replicate groups of 12 hens of each Hy-Line strain from 20 to 50 wk of age. Body weight, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake, and NPP intake were higher for W-98 hens compared with W-36 hens throughout the 30-wk period. The 0.10% NPP dietary treatment was terminated for both strains at 35 wk of age due to similar low egg production. Within each strain, there was no significant difference in egg production performance for hens fed 0.14% NPP compared with hens fed 0.45% NPP. In experiment 2,3 diets with varying levels of NPP (0.10, 0.13, and 0.45%) were fed to 5 replicate groups of 12 hens of each Hy-Line strain from 95 to 112 wk of age. The 0.10% NPP treatment rapidly and severely depressed egg production and was terminated at 99 wk of age for both strains. In addition, egg production and egg mass were depressed similarly in both strains fed 0.13% NPP. In conclusion, this research indicates that Hy-Line W-36 and Hy-Line W-98 hens responded similarly to dietary NPP deficiency, suggesting that both strains have similar NPP requirements.
O-023 Embolization with a Novel Endovascular Coil in a Canine Intracranial Saccular Aneurysm Model

Introduction Endovascular treatment of aneurysms with coils is based on the assumption that dense packing leads to intra-aneurysmal flow reduction with subsequent thrombosis and occlusion. Despite significant advances in technology, anatomic results remain suboptimal with residual and recurrent aneurysms being a drawback of the coiling procedure. In this report we describe a novel device for treatment of intracranial aneurysms and report safety, technical feasibility and anatomic outcomes in a canine aneurysm model. Materials and methods This study tested novel endovascular coils (Medina Medical, Menlo Park, California) consisting of a linear radiopaque mesh that, when deployed, self-expands to a three-dimensional shape that conforms to the aneurysm. Coils were deployed via standard endovascular techniques in surgically-created carotid aneurysms in canines. Device performance and procedural angiographic data were collected. Animals were survived through 30, 90, or 180 days when follow-up angiography was performed followed by sacrifice and histopathologic evaluation. Results 38 aneurysms in 22 animals were evaluated. The average dome size was 7.5 mm (SD: 1.2; range: 5.3–10.4) with an average neck of 4.2 mm (SD: 0.7; range: 2.8–6.1). There was no vasospasm, parent vessel thrombus or device migration during the procedure. In 27 aneurysms (71%), one coil was implanted. 35 aneurysms (92%) required two or fewer coils. Implanting physician ratings of device usability factors averaged 4.7 out of a maximum rating of 5. At follow-up, 25 aneurysms (69%) showed angiographic occlusion of 90–100%. Subsequent histologic analysis demonstrated that 27 aneurysms (75%) were completely occluded with mature fibrous tissue. Two device migrations occurred in the post-operative period. No evidence of thrombosis or device corrosion was found in any animal. Inflammation was minimal and of a chronic nature. Conclusion The technical feasibility of this embolization coil for occlusion of saccular aneurysms was demonstrated and usage ratings were positive. In contrast to reports of platinum coils in aneurysms of similar size, relatively few devices were required for each aneurysm; most required only one or two coils. The device was effective at all chronic follow-up time points, with at least two-thirds of aneurysms showing 90% or greater occlusion. Complete aneurysm occlusion with organised fibrocellular tissue seen in the majority of cases may result in a permanent and stable occlusion that could result in fewer recanalizations and minimise the need for re-treatments. Overall, this initial report of preclinical outcomes with a new embolization coil reveals promising results. Disclosures R. Jahan: 2; C; Covidien, Medina Medical, Stryker.
Using product family evaluation graphs in product family design

Product family design and platform-based product development have garnered much attention. They have been used to provide nearly customised products to satisfy individual customer requirements and simultaneously achieve economies of scale during production. The inherent challenge in product family design is to balance the trade-off between product commonality (how well the components and functions can be shared across a product family) and variety (the range of different products in a product family). Quantifying this trade-off at the product family planning stage in a way that supports the engineering design process has yet to be accomplished. In this paper, we introduce a graphical evaluation method, the product family evaluation graph (PFEG), that allows designers to choose the ‘best’ product family design option among sets of alternatives based on their performance with respect to an ideal commonality/variety trade-off determined by a company's particular competitive focus, and guides designers toward...
Celect filter penetration of aorta and lumbar artery.

images showed an intraluminal bronchial mass with a large extrabronchial solitary component, raising suspicion of a carcinoid tumor. Many treatment regimens are available for management of a carcinoid crisis. These consist of blocking the release of the mediators from tumor tissue by administering somatostatin analogues such as octreotide (2,3). In the acute situation, 100–500 mg of octreotide can be
4 pi direction sensitive gamma imager with RENA-3 readout ASIC

A 4π direction-sensitive gamma imager is presented, using a 1 cm3 3D CZT detector from Yinnel Tech and the RENA-3 readout ASIC from NOVA R&D. The measured readout system electronic noise is around 4-5 keV FWHM for all anode channels. The measured timing resolution between two channels within a single ASIC is around 10 ns and the resolution is 30 ns between two separate ASIC chips. After 3D material non-uniformity and charge trapping corrections, the measured single-pixel-event energy resolution is around 1% for Cs-137 at 662 keV using a 1 cm3 CZT detector from Yinnel Tech with an 8 x 8 anode pixel array at 1.15 mm pitch. The energy resolution for two pixel events is 2.9%. A 10 uCi Cs-137 point source was moved around the detector to test the image reconstruction algorithms and demonstrate the source direction detection capability. Accurate source locations were reconstructed with around 200 two-pixel events within a total energy window ±10 keV around the 662 keV full energy peak. The angular resolution FWHM at four of the five positions tested was between 0.05-0.07 steradians.
Ipilimumab plus sargramostim vs ipilimumab alone for treatment of metastatic melanoma: a randomized clinical trial.

Importance Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) blockade with ipilimumab prolongs survival in patients with metastatic melanoma. CTLA-4 blockade and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)–secreting tumor vaccine combinations demonstrate therapeutic synergy in preclinical models. A key unanswered question is whether systemic GM-CSF (sargramostim) enhances CTLA-4 blockade. Objective To compare the effect of ipilimumab plus sargramostim vs ipilimumab alone on overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic melanoma. Design, Setting, and Participants The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) conducted a US-based phase 2 randomized clinical trial from December 28, 2010, until July 28, 2011, of patients (N = 245) with unresectable stage III or IV melanoma, at least 1 prior therapy, no central nervous system metastases, and ECOG performance status of 0 or 1. Interventions Patients were randomized to receive ipilimumab, 10 mg/kg, intravenously on day 1 plus sargramostim, 250 μg subcutaneously, on days 1 to 14 of a 21-day cycle (n = 123) vs ipilimumab alone (n = 122). Ipilimumab treatment included induction for 4 cycles followed by maintenance every fourth cycle. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary end point: comparison of length of OS. Secondary end point: progression-free survival (PFS), response rate, safety, and tolerability. Results Median follow-up was 13.3 months (range, 0.03-19.9). Median OS as of December 2012 for ipilimumab plus sargramostim was 17.5 months (95% CI, 14.9-not reached) vs 12.7 months (95% CI, 10.0-not reached) for ipilimumab. The 1-year survival rate for ipilimumab plus sargramostim was 68.9% (95% CI, 60.6%-85.5%) compared to 52.9% (95% CI, 43.6%-62.2%) for ipilimumab alone (stratified log-rank 1-sided P = .01; mortality hazard ratio 0.64 [1-sided 90% repeated CI, not applicable-0.90]). A planned interim analysis was conducted at 69.8% of expected events (104 observed with 149 expected deaths). Planned interim analysis using the O’Brien-Fleming boundary was crossed for improvement in OS. There was no difference in PFS. Median PFS for ipilimumab plus sargramostim was 3.1 months (95% CI, 2.9-4.6) vs 3.1 months (95% CI, 2.9-4.0) for ipilimumab alone. Grade 3 to 5 adverse events occurred in 44.9% (95% CI; 35.8%-54.4%) of patients in the ipilimumab plus sargramostim group vs 58.3% (95% CI, 49.0%-67.2%) of patients in the ipilimumab-alone group (2-sided P = .04). Conclusion and Relevance Among patients with unresectable stage III or IV melanoma, treatment with ipilimumab plus sargramostim vs ipilimumab alone resulted in longer OS and lower toxicity, but no difference in PFS. These findings require confirmation in larger studies with longer follow-up. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01134614
Voluntary diving metabolism and ventilation in the loggerhead sea turtle

Ventilation and gas exchange patterns were examined during voluntary dives in the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta (L.) and contrasted with the changes that occur during forced submergence. Turtles spent 86% of their time submerged, with a mean dive length of 16.1 ± 6.0 (sd) min. During voluntary dives lasting 5–40 min, arterial blood PO2 fell to a minimum of 23 torr but turtles often surfaced before PO2 levels reached 50 torr. Arterial PCO2 increased typically < 10 torr while pH was held nearly constant, decreasing ⩽0.03-0.1U⪷dive−1. In voluntary submergence, aerobic limits were much longer than that of forced dives. The changes in blood acid-base status during voluntary submergence differed substantially from those reported in turtles forcibly submerged, and may account for the apparently reduced submersion endurance of sea turtles accidentally captured in shrimp trawls.
UV observations of the extended corona

Abstract Measurements of the intensities and profiles of the resonantly scattered hydrogen Lyman-alpha line at 1216 A have provided important insights on the physical conditions in the extended corona where the solar wind originates. Comparisons of measured kinetic temperatures with predictions of models suggest that there is proton heating and/or a nonthermal contribution to the motions of coronal protons between 1.5 and 4 solar radii. Comparisons of measured Lyman-alpha intensities with predictions of models provide evidence for subsonic flow for r ⊙ in a quiet region of the corona and two polar coronal holes observed near solar maximum. There is evidence for supersonic flow ( ∼ 200 km s −1 ) at r ≈ 2 R ⊙ in a large polar coronal hole observed in 1982. Future measurements of HI Lyman alpha and other coronal lines will greatly expand the quality and quantity of UV spectroscopic measurements of the extended corona.
Occupational allergy to avian proteins presenting as allergy to ingestion of egg yolk

Occupational respiratory diseases caused by avian proteins have been described by many workers. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis disease has been described from inhalation of proteins from goose and duck,’ parakeet,* pigeon,3 chicken,4 turkey,5 dove,6 and budgerigar.’ In their study of pulmonary responses of bird fanciers, Hargreave and Pepys’ have described an asthmatic-like response in a number of subjects. Occupational asthma in poultry workers has been reported to have been caused by spiramycin,’ and by poultry mites in a number of workers in Israel. lo MaatBleeker et al.” have recently described the case of an older woman who developed reactivity with egg yolk coincidently with the acquisition of a parrot as a household pet. IgE antibodies from this patient demonstrated cross-reactivity between bird sera and egg yolk. We describe in this article the case of a young woman with occupational exposure to birds who developed symptomatic respiratory allergy to bird proteins and exquisite gastrointestinal sensitivity to egg yolk. By serologic studies, the reactivity to egg yolk is demonstrated to be a result of avian serum sensitization. In addition, the patient is demonstrated to have some specific reactivity to at least two groups of birds.
Exact solution of catalyst inhibition problems: Application to hydrodesulfurization for clean fuel production

Abstract In catalyst development, a targeted reaction often is inhibited by a strongly adsorbed species. To help develop mitigation means, it is important to quantitatively relate the inhibition dynamics to catalyst properties. The present study develops a combined modeling and experimental approach to address this problem. A general mathematical model consisting of three nonlinear partial differential equations is reduced to quadratures or two first-order ordinary differential equations. The result is a simple parameter estimation method, which is used for kinetic characterization of an unsupported CoMo sulfide catalyst for desulfurizing 4,6-diethyldibenzothiophene with 3-ethylcarbazole as the inhibitor. The active site densities and adsorption-reaction rate constants are determined from modeling of transient response experiments. The unsupported CoMo catalyst has a higher hydrodesulfurization turnover frequency than a commercial sulfided CozMo/Al2O3–SiO2 catalyst in the absence of 3-ethylcarbazole. However, the unsupported CoMo sulfide is about three times less resilient to 3-ethylcarbazole inhibition than the CozMo/Al2O3–SiO2 catalyst.
Military Applications of Biotech

Revue des applications militaires des Biotechnologies, qui se repartissent en 4 secteurs. Biomedical, Biodetection, Decontamination et materiel biotechnologique. L'etat d'avancement des recherches dans chaque categorie est discute
The presentation of L-tyrosine-azobenzenearsonate by different mouse Ia molecules uses a common agretope.

Abstract The T cell response to l -tyrosine-azobenzenearsonate (ABA-tyr) has been studied using T cell lines and clones derived from three different mouse strains, B10.BR, B10.A (5R) and C57B1/6. In all cases, the arsonate group in conjunction with the amino group of tyrosine formed the functional T cell epitope. Molecules without any one or both of these groups are non-stimulatory. The hydrophobic moiety consisting of the azo-linked benzene rings forms the agretope of the molecule, as is evident from competitive inhibition of T cell stimulation by non-stimulatory analogues lacking the epitope. Substitutions on the benzene ring at ortho or meta positions resulted in decreases in ability to compete, indicating the likelihood of steric inhibition of binding of the agretope with the Ia molecule. This pattern was observed for clones and lines restricted by IA k , IA b and IE b k MHC class II molecules. Peptides from lambda repressor protein, P84–98 and P73–88, showed haplotype specificity in their ability to inhibit ABA-tyr-induced proliferation of T cell clones, BRTC-4 and B6TC, respectively. The binding constants of ABA-tyr analogues were considered to be comparable to those of lambda repressor peptides because equimolar concentrations resulted in similar levels of competition. A cluster of aromatic amino acids on the floor of most MHC class II molecule binding sites might provide strong hydrophobic interaction with azo-linked benzene rings of ABA-tyr, thus accounting for its immunogenicity in all strains of mice studied.
Self‐contained all‐inclusive resort‐hotels and small tourism business in Jamaica

The growth of entrepreneurship in the Jamaican tourist industry has been a feature of that industry over the past three decades. Recent writings by such Jamaican tourism experts, such as Margaret Morris, have suggested that the explosion of the all‐inclusive concept in Jamaican tourism in recent years bodes ill for many small business people ‐ restaurant owners, craft vendors, taxi drivers ‐ establishments owned by small business people. Custom for these independent businesses will decline if more and more provisions are made within the hotels themselves.
Combining Multihoming with Overlay Routing (or, How to Be a Better ISP without Owning a Network)

Multihoming and overlay routing are used, mostly separately, to bypass Internet outages, congested links and long routes. In this paper, we examine a scenario in which multihoming and overlay routing are jointly used. Specifically, we assume that an overlay service provider (OSP) aims to offer its customers the combined benefits of multihoming and overlay routing, in terms of improved performance, availability and reduced cost, through a network of multihomed overlay routers. We focus on the corresponding design problem, i.e., where to place the overlay routers and how to select the upstream ISPs for each router, with the objective to maximize the profit of the OSP. We examine, with realistic network performance and pricing data, whether the OSP can provide a network service that is profitable, better (in terms of round-trip time), and less expensive than the competing native ISPs. Perhaps surprisingly, we find out that the OSP can meet all three objectives at the same time. We also show that the MON design process is crucial. For example, operating more than 10 overlay nodes or routing traffic through the minimum-delay overlay path, rarely leads to profitability in our simulations.
MEF2C regulates c-Jun but not TNF-α gene expression in stimulated mast cells

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play essential roles in the transduction of extracellular signals to cytoplasmic and nuclear effectors. The MAPK kinase kinase MEKK2 is essential for activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5). These pathways are important for expression of specific cytokine genes in mast cells following cross-linking of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcϵRI). A consequence of ERK5 activation is activation of the transcriptional factor myocyte enhancing factor-2C (MEF2C), leading to increased c-Jun expression. We have investigated the role of MEF2C activation in mast cells and demonstrated that it requires sequential activation of the signaling cascade of MEKK2-MEK5-ERK5. Following phosphorylation of MEF2C, activated MEF2C regulates transcription of c-Jun but not TNF-α. Inhibition of ERK5, MEK5 activation or activation of MEKK2-deficient mast cells was associated with inhibition of MEF2C phosphorylation and a decrease in c-Jun expression. Thus, these data define an activation module, MEKK2-MEK5-ERK5-MEF2C in the transcriptional activation of c-Jun in mast cells following FcϵRI cross-linking. These results demonstrate the novel and important, MEKK2-dependent role of MEF2C in induction of c-Jun expression in mast cells activated through FcϵRI, a pathway distinct from that involving MEKK2-MEK5-ERK5 in the regulation of mast cell cytokine production.
How important are client characteristics to understanding treatment process in the therapeutic community

Prior research has demonstrated that therapeutic communities (TCs) are effective at improving posttreatment outcomes for substance abusers. However, little is known about the in-treatment experience for clients with different backgrounds, experiences, and needs. The aim of this study is to examine the in-treatment experience for different clients by exploring the relationships between treatment process and client characteristics. A comprehensive measure of treatment process, operationalized as Community Environment and Personal Change and Development and change was administered to 447 adults and 148 adolescents receiving treatment at community-based TC programs in New York, California, and Texas. Data on demographic characteristics, substance use and treatment history, and client risk factors were extracted from intake interviews and analyzed separately for adolescent and adult residents. Multivariate general linear models were used to examine the effect of client variables on treatment process, after controlling for treatment duration and program effects. Within adult programs, clients who were 25 years or older, female, and had a prior drug treatment experience had higher Community Environment scores. Adolescents with one or more arrests within the past 2 years had lower scores on both process dimensions of Community Environment and Personal Development and Change. Our results indicate the need to understand why adult clients who are younger, male, and have no prior treatment history and adolescent clients with recent arrests reported lower ratings of treatment process. Future research should also examine the role of modifiable mediators so that appropriate strategies to enhance therapeutic engagement may be developed as necessary.
Coulometric titration of acid with a single beam fluorescence detection system

An improved single-beam fluorescence detection system for coulometric titrations is presented. A null point procedure is used wherein the initial fluorescence emission intensity of an acid-base indicator is re-established by electrogeneration of base following addition of a sample of acid. Amounts of hydrogen ion from 1284 to 12.84 nanoequivalents were automatically determined with errors of a few percent in most cases. Precision ranged from ±0.5% relative for the largest amount of hydrogen ion studied to ±8.8% for the smallest.
Precipitation of nickel dimethylglyoximate from homogeneous solution: Studies of the reactions of biacetyl, hydroxylamine and nickelII

Abstract The reaction between biacetyl and hydroxylamine to form dimethylglyoxime was found to follow simple kinetics in the absence of nickel. However, with nickelII present, the kinetic studies showed definite evidence for complex formation between biacetyl monoxime and nickel. This complex and others formed with nickel in the reaction mixture determines the overall rate of formation of nickel dimethyl-glyoximate. Supersaturation concentrations of several hundred times the equilibrium solubility of nickel dimethylglyoximate were attained in nucleation experiments. The kinetic and nucleation studies provide explanations for some previously anomalous experimental observations, e.g., the persistent supersaturation in this system provides an explanation for the inability to precipitate completely small amounts of nickelII with dimethylglyoxime. The yellow colour observed in the initial stage of the precipitation of nickel from homogeneous solution arises from dissolved nickel dimethylglyoximate.
Associative and nonassociative schema theories of learning

Association, as the most basic unit of thinking and learning, has been a widely accepted, albeit controversial, concept in psychology. Recently, associationism has gained considerable momentum in the brain-inspired connectionist approach to learning. This paper compares connectionism with a nonassociative brain-inspired approach and reviews data bearing on the comparison regarding the nature of incompatibility between schemas.
Quality enhancement in fresh and frozen lingcod (Ophiodon elongates) fillets by employment of fish oil incorporated chitosan coatings

Abstract The 3% chitosan solutions incorporating 10% fish oil (w/w chitosan, containing 91.2% EPA and DHA) with or without the addition of 0.8% vitamin E were prepared. Fresh lingcod ( Ophiodon elongates ) fillets were vacuum-impregnated in coating solution at 100 mm Hg for 10 min followed by atmospheric restoration for 15 min, dried, and then stored at 2 °C or −20 °C for 3-weeks and 3-months, respectively, for physicochemical and microbial quality evaluation. Chitosan–fish oil coating increased total lipid and omega-3 fatty acid contents of fish by about 3-fold, reduced TBARS values in both fresh and frozen samples, and also decreased drip loss of frozen samples by 14.1–27.6%. Chitosan coatings resulted in 0.37–1.19 and 0.27–1.55 log CFU/g reductions in total plate and psychrotrophic counts in cold stored and frozen stored samples, respectively. Chitosan–fish oil coatings may be used to extend shelf-life and fortify omega-3 fatty acid in lean fish.
Comparing Internet search engines

Search engines are sophisticated utilities designed expressly to find information on the global Internet. An expensive combination of high-speed computer networks and specialized software, they are usually created by large corporations and occasionally by universities. They are freely available to anyone with Internet access, and there are no search restrictions. With more than 150 search engines available, choosing the right one (or ones) is important. As with most products, no single engine is best for all searches and all users all the time. After comparing 50 of the most popular and powerful engines, I narrowed the field down to the four I found most useful: Alta Vista, Deja News, Excite and Yahoo.
Moral Reasoning and Business Ethics: Implications for Research, Education, and Management

This paper reviews Kohlberg’s (Stage and sequence: The cognitive-developmental approach to socialization. In Handbook of socialization theory and research, ed. D.A. Goslin . Rand McNally: Chicago, 1969) theory of cognitive moral development, highlighting moral reasoning research relevant to the business ethics domain. Implications for future business ethics research, higher education and training, and the management of ethical/unethical behavior are discussed.
The influence of superleader behaviors on organization commitment, job satisfaction and organization self‐esteem in a self‐managed work team

Purpose – The purpose of this paper was to examine the impact of superleader behaviors in self‐managed work teams, on organization commitment, job satisfaction and organization self‐esteem.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected on‐site over a period of three days from employees working in a non‐union paper mill located in a small rural community in the northwestern region of the USA. The survey was completed by 141 employees, representing a 9 per cent response rate. Self‐leadership, organization commitment, job satisfaction and organization self‐esteem were all measured using different instruments.Findings – The results indicated that teams groups that were led by a supervisor who exhibited the characteristics of a superleader had higher levels of organization commitment, job satisfaction, and organization self‐esteem.Research limitations/implications – The study is based on a small sample and relied on self‐report data, thereby allowing for the possibility of same source bias. However, this is...