cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adoptive chemoimmunotherapy using Ex vivo activated memory T‐cells and cyclophosphamide: Tumor lysis syndrome of a metastatic soft tissue sarcoma

Adoptively transferred immune cells in combination with chemotherapeutic agents form the basis for adoptive chemoimmunotherapy (ACIT) of neoplastic disease. Autolymphocytes (ALT-cells) are ex vivo activated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from tumor-bearing hosts (TBH) that consist primarily of tumor-specific CD45RO+ (memory) T-cells. These ALT-cells combined with cimetidine (CIM) as autolymphocyte therapy (ALT), have previously been demonstrated to be a safe and active form of outpatient adoptive immunotherapy (AIT) in human TBH with metastatic renal cell cancer (RCC). We have previously described an effective ACIT protocol using ALT and cyclophosphamide (CY) for patients with relapsed and refractory non-RCC solid tumors. We now report a case of a patient with a metastatic gastric leiomyosarcoma to the liver, who developed a clinical picture consistent with a tumor-lysis syndrome (TLS), following salvage therapy for his tumor with ACIT using ALT and CY. TLS is a well-known complication resulting from the treatment of rapidly proliferating hematopoietic tumors such as Burkitt's lymphoma and acute lymphocytic leukemia. TLS has also been rarely described in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, as well as certain solid tumors such as breast cancer, small cell lung cancer, and medulloblastoma. However, there have been no previous reports of TLS occurring either secondary to immunotherapy or in sarcomas. The nature of these unusual findings is discussed.
Postdural puncture headache: a headache for the patient and a headache for the anesthesiologist.

Purpose of review To identify newly identified risk factors for the development of a postdural puncture headache (PDPH) as well as to outline the key points in the management of unintentional dural puncture and of PDPH. Recent findings The lack of experience of the proceduralist and a vaginal delivery are two risk factors that increase the risk of the patient developing a PDPH. The use of intrathecal catheters for the prevention of a headache is not of value, although an intrathecal catheter may prove to be the best method for providing analgesia for the patient. When performing an epidural blood patch, the optimal amount of blood is 20 ml, as long as the patient does not develop the symptoms of back pain or leg pain during the injection. Summary Many practitioners do not practice an evidence-based approach to the management of unintentional dural puncture and PDPH. Written institutional protocols are important to insure that patients receive the optimal care.
The unique trace metal and mixed layer conditions of the Costa Rica upwelling dome support a distinct and dense community of Synechococcus

The Costa Rica Dome (CRD) is a wind-driven upwelling feature in the eastern tropical Pacific that supports unusually high concentrations (> 106 cells mL−1) of the picocyanobacteria Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus. To understand what causes this unusual phytoplankton bloom, we conducted a comprehensive survey of the hydrography, picophytoplankton population structure, and trace metal chemistry of the CRD and surrounding oligotrophic and equatorial upwelling waters. Based on size-fractionated chlorophyll, picoplankton dominated phytoplankton biomass in the region, and the three water regimes sampled supported different assemblages of Prochlorococcus, Synechococcus, and eukaryotic picophytoplankton. Cobalt (Co), a required nutrient for cyanobacteria, was strongly complexed in surface waters and was at least twice as high in the photic zone of the CRD than in surrounding waters. In contrast, iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) levels were comparable in and outside the CRD. Synechococcus clades II and CRD1 and Prochlorococcus ecotype eMIT9312 (high light II) were the dominant genotypes throughout the region, as assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays. The composition of less abundant Synechococcus clade subpopulations differed in and outside the CRD and within the CRD. Co, mixed layer depth, and temperature were the important drivers of both total Synechococcus abundance and cyanobacterial community composition. This supports a model whereby the combination of upwelled macronutrients, high concentrations of complexed Co, and Fe and Mn scarcity in the warm, shallow mixed layer of the CRD limit larger phytoplankton and induce dense concentrations of picocyanobacteria. Globally, we suggest that trace metals influence phytoplankton distributions at both the broad (cyanobacterial vs. eukaryotic) and the fine (ecotype-level) taxonomic levels.
THE ANTIMYCOBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF A PEPTIDE PREPARATION DERIVED FROM CALF THYMUS

A stable, water-soluble substance which possesses potent antimycobacterial activity under certain conditions in vitro has been prepared from calf thymus. This substance has been tentatively named thymus peptide. In final concentrations of 1 to 10 µg. per ml. of an albumin medium it inhibits the growth of various strains of mammalian mycobacteria, but manifests only little or no inhibitory activity against a variety of other microbial species. The ability of thymus peptide to inhibit the multiplication of tubercle bacilli diminishes when the inoculum is large, or when the medium is acidic. It is also markedly antagonized by addition of enzymatic hydrolysate of casein or beef heart infusion broth to the culture medium. Thymus peptide does not exert a rapid bactericidal action on tubercle bacilli, but organisms exposed to this compound for longer than 2 weeks could not be made to multiply in ordinary culture media. Substances similar or identical to the thymus peptide preparation could be extracted from calf spleen, sheep thymus, beef lymph nodes, and calf pancreas, but not from calf lung or calf liver.
A phase I clinical and pharmacological study of weekly intravenous infusions of piritrexim (BW301U).

Abstract Thirty-eight patients with advanced resistant cancers were enrolled on this study of piritrexim (PTX; BW 301 U) administered intravenously weekly for 4 weeks. Of 50 courses of treatment begun, 39 evaluable 4 -week courses of the drug were completed by this group of patients. Dosages ranged from 44 to 530 mg/m 2 /week. One patient at each dosage level received an initial weekly dose of PTX in oral form accompanied by pharmacokinetic blood sampling after the oral dose and also after a subsequent intravenous dose. Toxicities included mild nausea and vomiting, and moderate to severe peripheral vein phlebitis. Anemia and thrombocytopenia were the dominant hematological toxicities. One patient with pulmonary metastases from malignant fibrous histiocytoma experienced a 12 -week partial response to PTX treatment at a dosage of 400 mg/m 2 /week. Pharmacokinetic analysis of plasma for PTX concentrations was accomplished utilizing a competitive protein binding assay. The estimated total body clearance ranged from 136 to 173 ml/min/1.73 m 2 . Mean terminal half-life after intravenous administration was 5.61 ± 2.38 h (S.D.), and after oral administration was 5.72 ± 2.04 h . Mean systemic bioavailability after oral administration was 75 ± 56% .
An ultra-small-angle neutron scattering study of the restructuring of sheared colloidal silica gels

Neutron scattering curves for a sheared colloidal silica gel were measured using a Bonse-Hart ultra-small-angle neutron scattering instrument. When they are combined with data taken from a conventional small-angle neutron scattering instrument, the accessible scattering vector range extends over approximately four orders of magnitude: 3 × 10-4<q (nm-1)<3. A peak in the scattering data is observed at q = 2.7 × 10-3 nm-1 corresponding to a correlation length of 2.3 µm. The scattering curves show an approximate power-law behaviour with an exponent of -2.9 over the range 4 × 10-3<q (nm-1)<4 × 10-2. These results are compared with our previously reported observation that an unsheared sample yields a correlation length of only ~20 nm with no observable power-law regime. The present data confirm that shear stresses induce a structural densification in gelling colloidal silica systems.
The Elision of Agency in The Autobiography of Malcolm X

The Autobiography of Malcolm X was a phenomenal economic and critical success. The book, which also inspired Spike Lee's Malcolm X, was named by Time magazine as one of the 10 most important nonfiction works of the 20th century and has helped to construct a durable image of one of the most significant African Americans in memory. In this article, the author argues that the representation of Malcolm X's agency, and particularly the elision of that agency, functions to enable the reader to forgive young Malcolm's vices, to imagine her or himself as an activist, and to consider the possibility of racial progress.
Co-transmission of dopamine and GABA in periglomerular cells.

Most central neurons package and release a single transmitter. However co-transmission of fast-acting and modulatory transmitters has been observed in vertebrate and invertebrate systems. Here we d...
Effect of insoluble gas molecules on nucleation of voids in materials supersaturated with both vacancies and interstitials

Abstract In a previous paper, the theory of homogeneous nueleation was generalized to include the effect of the presence of antimatter, i.e., an antinucleating material, and applied to the problem of the nucleation of voids when both the vacancies and the interstitials are supersaturated. In this paper, we further generalize this theory to include the effects of insoluble gas molecules on the rates of nucleation.
Systemic sarcoidosis presenting in a tattooed man undergoing treatment for hepatitis C

Summary A heavily tattooed man presented with nodular, ulcerated sarcoidal lesions distributed throughout all the colours of his tattoos. The lesions developed within the confines of his tattoos 4 months into therapy with ribavirin and interferon-α for chronic hepatitis C. This appears to be the first case of sarcoidosis in association with numerous pigment colours as well as dual therapy for hepatitis C.
Misclassification and Identification of Emotional Facial Expressions in Depressed Youth: A Preliminary Study

Accurate processing of social and affective cues, especially facial cues, is important for human adaptation. Previous studies have examined depressed adults' sensitivity to identify emotional facial expressions, yet only one study has investigated this in depressed youth. In addition, very little is known about whether depressed individuals exhibit biases when incorrectly labeling, or misclassifying, emotional expressions. Therefore, this preliminary study explored whether sensitivity to, or misclassification of, emotional facial expressions differed among currently depressed youth, those with a history of depression, and never-depressed control participants. A community sample of 280 youth (7–16 years; M = 11.51, SD = 2.44; 56% girls) completed a forced-choice emotion identification task consisting of a series of randomly presented facial images that morphed an emotional expression (angry, happy, and sad) with a neutral expression in 10% increments (e.g., 10% sad/90% neutral; 20% sad/80% neutral). Findin...
Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum, Pneumopericardium and Pneumorrhachis as potential complications of 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus infection in healthy children

We report on two cases of spontaneous pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium, in one case associated with pneumorrhachis, occurring in two children suffering from the novel influenza H1N1 virus infection. At the admission both children presented with fever, violent dry cough, dyspnea and tachypnea. Radiological studies showed sizeable pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium in both patients. One of the patients also a pneumorrachis. Children were initially treated by intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics, antipyretics and a cough sedative. Oral Oseltamivir (60 mg twice daily for 5 days) was administered after the diagnosis of influenza A (H1N1) virus infection. Patients’ clinical condition quickly improved and children were discharged with a partial resolution of their radiological findings. Although these conditions are usually self-limiting and without respiratory or systemic consequences, their prompt recognition in children with H1N1 influenza virus infection is essential to establish fast and adequate therapy mainly related to the control of cough and the commencement of antiviral treatment.
The preparation of tellurium perfluoroalkyls by photolysis of dimethyltelluride in the presence of perfluoroalkyl iodides

The following new compounds containing perfluoroalkyl-tellurium linkages have been synthesized: CH3TeCF3, (CF3)2Te, CH3TeC2F5, (C2F5)2Te. These preparations were brought about by the photochemical interaction of (CH3)2Te and an appropriate perfluoroalkyl iodide in a vycor tube at 310 nm wavelength. The resulting mixture of tellurides, RfTeCH3 and (Rf)2Te in which Rf = CF3 or C2F5, cannot be separated by trap-to-trap distillation, but the relative amounts of each product were determined by 19F NMR spectroscopy. The clear yellow tellurides are air stable, but yield either CF3H or C2F5H on basic hydrolysis. No reaction was noted with CH3Cl up to 80°, but at 215° a mixture of CH3TeCF3 and (CF3)2Te interacted with benzyl chloride to give C6H5CH2CF3 in a 3·4 cent yield.
Magnum P.I.

In an earlier paper Berele and Regev associated to each p.i. algebraA a sequence of algebrasUk,t(A) which proved useful in studying the identities ofA. We now describeUk,t(A) as a universal object and describe how to recoverA from theUk,t(A).
282 MATURITY RELATED DIFFERENCE IN CEREBRAL PERFUSION PRESSURE (CPP) CHANGES SECONDARY TO HYPOXIA IN PUPPIES

Changes in CPP (mean BP-ICP) to hypoxia were studied in 16 puppies of two age groups: Group I, 9 older puppies, x age 26 days, and Group II, 7 young puppies, x age 11 days. Mean aortic BP, heart rate, respiration and ICP (via epidural space) were recorded while 5-10% O2 breathing. The table shows results (BP, pO2, ICP, CPP are Torr). Within seconds of breathing low conc. of O2, ICP rose in all animals. In Group I hypotension occurred by 1 min., persisting up to 5 min., thus resulting in severe drop of CPP (p<0.01). In Group II, ICP rose (p<0.01) but CPP drop was not significant up to 3 min. since these animals maintained BP during hypoxia. In both groups CPP dropped 5 mins. since, by then severe bradycardia and drop in cardiac output occurred. We conclude that during hypoxia: a) In very young animals CPP drop is minimal because of hypertensive response. This might provide a ‘relative’ protection to the vital organ, brain; b) Increase in ICP in all animals is probably sec. to increase in cerebral blood flow; c) Prolonged severe hypoxia results in severe drop in CPP by 5 minutes.
cAMP-independent control of sporulation, glycogen metabolism, and heat shock resistance in S. cerevisiae

Genes encoding the regulatory (BCY1) and catalytic (TPK1, TPK2, and TPK3) subunits of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (cAPK) are found in S. cerevisiae. bcy1- yeast strains do not respond properly to nutrient conditions. Unlike wild type, bcy1- strains do not accumulate glycogen, form spores, or become resistant to heat shock when nutrient limited. We have isolated mutant TPK genes that suppress all of the bcy1- defects. The mutant TPK genes appear to encode functionally attenuated catalytic subunits of the cAPK. bcy1- yeast strains containing the mutant TPK genes respond appropriately to nutrient conditions, even in the absence of CDC25, both RAS genes, or CYR1. Together, these genes encode the known components of the cAMP-generating machinery. The results indicate that cAMP-independent mechanisms must exist for regulating glycogen accumulation, sporulation, and the acquisition of thermotolerance in S. cerevisiae.
Mass spectral fragmentation reactions of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

A variety of mass spectrometric techniques have been employed in the study of a series of structurally similar compounds used in the treatment of hypertension. The compounds, known collectively as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, all share the amino acid residue proline or some variant thereof, as a common structural element. The gas phase fragmentation behavior of these compounds has been explored systematically using various instruments and techniques. An interesting dissociation process (rearrangement) unique to one of the compounds, lisinopril, has been investigated using isotopic labeling experiments and exact mass measurements. The general nature of the process has been probed through both the positive and negative ion analyses of fourteen related compounds exhibiting structural homology.
Changes in ERG b-wave and Müller cell structure induced by α-aminoadipic acid

Abstract The role of the Muller cell in the generation of the ERG b-wave was studied in the skate eye by examining the effects of a gliotoxic agent (α-aminoadipic acid; α-AAA) on retinal structure and function. Superfusing the eyecup for 1 h in 50 mM α-AAA resulted in the loss of the b-wave and extensive damage to glial cells, i.e. disruption of the cells' plasma membranes, and a marked loss of cytoplasmic substance. Of the other retinal elements, only the horizontal cells showed some signs of injury in α-AAA. On returning the retina to a normal Ringer solution, the widespread loss of cytoplasmic electron density persisted, but the Muller cell membranes appeared to have undergone repair, and the b-wave recovered fully its normal amplitude and waveform.
Day-case surgery in children

Abstract Since much of the general surgery of childhood consists of simple procedures with little trauma to the tissues it is no surprise that paediatric surgeons were at the forefront of the development of day-case surgery. The benefits for children were clear and day-case surgery spread to other specialities. Day-case surgery rates have increased fivefold in the UK in the past 20 years driven by improvements in surgical and anaesthetic techniques, patient expectation and NHS targets. The complexity of surgery and the degree of permissible co-morbidity have increased without a rise in complications. The European Association for Children in Hospital say that children should only be admitted if the care they require cannot be equally well provided at home or on a day-case surgery basis. Preoperative planning, discharge and postoperative support need to be robust. This article outlines day-case procedures in the general surgery of childhood.
Gauge-fermion masses in supersymmetric hierarchy models

The gauge-fermion mass is found to be generally nonzero in three scale-supersymmetric hierarchy models. In a large class of models, the mass can be obtained from a simple current-algebra argument for an anomalous $R$ symmetry.
A multi-criteria master production scheduling approach for special purpose machinery

Abstract This paper presents a multi-criteria master production scheduling approach as the final assembly of special purpose machines is known to be very cost intensive. These costs are mainly influenced by the master production schedule (MPS). Two major cost drivers arise. First, long assembly lead-times (up to several months) combined with high product values result in high capital commitments; thus, lead-times need to be minimized. Moreover, the factory calendar must be considered while calculating the MPS because the factory calendar can significantly influence the resulting lead-times. Second, contractual penalties and compensation costs arise if confirmed delivery dates cannot be kept. Therefore, resource requirements must be accounted for, and an MPS that is executable on the assembly shop floor must be calculated. To increase planning flexibility, we do not restrict the resource utilization with a formal constraint; instead, we introduce the additional objective of resource leveling. Consequently, the conflicting objectives lead-time minimization and resource leveling are integrated into a single objective function, in which the decision maker's preferences are represented by a weighting factor. To calculate such an MPS, we develop a tailor-made construction heuristic combined with a randomized variable neighborhood descent procedure. We evaluate our solution method by solving small instances with a commercial solver and large-scale instances from an application case of an aerospace company. Our results reveal that the decision maker's preferences are adequately reflected by the weighting factor. Moreover, we can provide a rule of thumb for selecting an appropriate initial weighting factor.
Lesion bypass of N2-ethylguanine by human DNA polymerase Iota

Nucleotide incorporation and extension opposite N2-ethyl-Gua by DNA polymerase ι was measured and structures of the DNA polymerase ι-N2-ethyl-Gua complex with incoming nucleotides were solved. Efficiency and fidelity of DNA polymerase ι opposite N2-ethyl-Gua was determined by steady state kinetic analysis with Mg2+ or Mn2+ as the activating metal. DNA polymerase ι incorporates dCMP opposite N2-ethyl-Gua and unadducted Gua with similar efficiencies in the presence of Mg2+ and with greater efficiencies in the presence of Mn2+. However, the fidelity of nucleotide incorporation by DNA polymerase ι opposite N2-ethyl-Gua and Gua using Mn2+ is lower relative to that using Mg2+ indicating a metal-dependent effect. DNA polymerase ι extends from the N2-ethyl-Gua:Cyt 3′ terminus more efficiently than from the Gua:Cyt base pair. Together these kinetic data indicate that the DNA polymerase ι catalyzed reaction is well suited for N2-ethyl-Gua bypass. The structure of DNA polymerase ι with N2-ethyl-Gua at the active site reveals the adducted base in the syn configuration when the correct incoming nucleotide is present. Positioning of the ethyl adduct into the major groove removes potential steric overlap between the adducted template base and the incoming dCTP. Comparing structures of DNA polymerase ι complexed with N2-ethyl-Gua and Gua at the active site suggests movements in the DNA polymerase ι polymerase-associated domain to accommodate the adduct providing direct evidence that DNA polymerase ι efficiently replicates past a minor groove DNA adduct by positioning the adducted base in the syn configuration.
Benign lymphangiomatous papules of the skin

Benign lymphangiomatous papules of the skin are benign lymphatic proliferations that may arise in the skin after operation or radiation therapy. We report a case of benign lymphangiomatous papules of the skin that occurred in a patient 4 years after undergoing radiation therapy to the chest for adenocarcinoma of the breast.
Functional Filtering and Performance Correlation of Plateau Honed Surface Profiles

Plateau honing produces a unique texture on cylinder liner surface. This surface is engineered to simulate the actual running in process of the engine and results in a core layer superimposed on valleys. Because of the complex nature of the surface, characterization of such surfaces is very different from traditional surface texture analysis. Different filtering techniques have been employed to remove waviness from these profiles. Parameters are subsequently computed from the bearing area curve of the roughness profile. With recent progress in filtering of surface profiles, we propose a functional analysis approach based on morphological filters. The advantage of this technique is the clear separation of the core texture from the valleys resulting in better correlation with process and functional measures. A number of profiles are collected from two sets of liners with different performance characteristics. A cause effect model is built and used for performance prediction.
Mysteries behind the Low Salinity Water Injection Technique

Low salinity water injection (LSWI) is gaining popularity as an improved oil recovery technique in both secondary and tertiary injection modes. The objective of this paper is to investigate the main mechanisms behind the LSWI effect on oil recovery from carbonates through history-matching of a recently published coreflood. This paper includes a description of the seawater cycle match and two proposed methods to history-match the LSWI cycles using the UTCHEM simulator. The sensitivity of residual oil saturation, capillary pressure curve, and relative permeability parameters (endpoints and Corey’s exponents) on LSWI is evaluated in this work. Results showed that wettability alteration is still believed to be the main contributor to the LSWI effect on oil recovery in carbonates through successfully history matching both oil recovery and pressure drop data. Moreover, tuning residual oil saturation and relative permeability parameters including endpoints and exponents is essential for a good data match. Also, the incremental oil recovery obtained by LSWI is mainly controlled by oil relative permeability parameters rather than water relative permeability parameters. The findings of this paper help to gain more insight into this uncertain IOR technique and propose a mechanistic model for oil recovery predictions.
Image-based atmospheric correction of QuickBird imagery of Minnesota cropland

High spatial resolution QuickBird satellite data have provided new opportunities for remote sensing applications in agriculture. In this study, image-based algorithms for atmospheric correction were evaluated on QuickBird imagery for retrieving surface reflectance (qk) of corn and potato canopies in Minnesota. The algorithms included the dark object subtraction technique (DOS), the cosine approximation model (COST), and the apparent reflectance model (AR). The comparison with ground-based measurements of canopy reflectance during a 3-year field campaign indicated that the AR model generally overestimated qk in the visible bands, but underestimated qk in the near infrared (NIR) band. The DOS– COST model was most effective for the visible bands and produced qk with the root mean square errors (RMSE) of less than 0.01. However, retrieved qk in the NIR band were more than 20% (mean relative difference or MRD) lower than ground measurements and the RMSE was as high as 0.16. The evaluation of the COST model showed that atmospheric transmittance (Tk h ) was substantially overestimated on humid days, particularly for the NIR band because of the undercorrection of water vapor absorption. Alternatively, a contour map was developed to interpolate appropriate Tk h for the NIR band for clear days under average atmospheric aerosol conditions and as a function of precipitable water content and solar zenith angle or satellite view angle. With the interpolated Tk h , the accuracy of NIR band qk was significantly improved where the RMSE and
Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 9, X-linked (USP9X) modulates activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is an atypical serine/threonine kinase that responds to extracellular environment to regulate a number of cellular processes. These include cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Although both kinase-dependent and -independent functions of mTOR are known to be critical modulators of muscle cell differentiation and regeneration, the signaling mechanisms regulating mTOR activity during differentiation are still unclear. In this study we identify a novel mTOR interacting protein, the ubiquitin-specific protease USP9X, which acts as a negative regulator of mTOR activity and muscle differentiation. USP9X can co-immunoprecipitate mTOR with both Raptor and Rictor, components of mTOR complexes 1 and 2 (mTORC1 and -2), respectively, suggesting that it is present in both mTOR complexes. Knockdown of USP9X leads to increased mTORC1 activity in response to growth factor stimulation. Interestingly, upon initiation of differentiation of C2C12 mouse skeletal myoblasts, knockdown of USP9X increases mTORC2 activity. This increase in mTORC2 activity is accompanied by accelerated differentiation of myoblasts into myotubes. Taken together, our data describe the identification of the deubiquitinase USP9X as a novel mTORC1 and -2 binding partner that negatively regulates mTOR activity and skeletal muscle differentiation.
(p,d) reaction at 800 MeV

The neutron pickup reaction (p,d) has been studied at a proton energy of 800 MeV on targets of /sup 7/Li, /sup 12/C, /sup 13/C, /sup 16/O, /sup 25/Mg, /sup 28/Si, and /sup 40/Ca. States known to correspond to single-hole excitations are seen and in most cases the data are properly understood through distorted-wave Born approximation calculations. High-spin final states are prominent, and some are shown to be excited through multiple step processes. The strongest states seen in the data do not correspond to known levels.
Life expectancies of cigarette smokers and nonsmokers in the United States.

Abstract This research employs the National Health Interview and the National Mortality Followback Surveys to calculate life expectancies by age and sex for white nonsmokers,former smokers, and current smokers in the United States in 1986. In general, life expectancies are higher for never smokers than for former smokers, and higher for former smokers than for current smokers. Heavy smokers have lower life expectancies than persons with all other smoking statuses; indeed, compared to never smokers, heavy smokers at age 25 can expect at least a 25% shorter life. Gender differences in life expectancies were found to persist even with the elimination of smoking. Differences in life expectancy by sex thus appear to be due, in part, to cigarette smoking, but also to occupational, environmental, and sociodemographic factors.
Computation of the uniform minimum variance unbiased estimator of a normal mean following a group sequential trial

Abstract The sampling distribution of data collected in a group sequential trial is such that the usual fixed-sample estimates of treatment effect are biased. Improved estimates can be obtained by taking the group sequential stopping rule into account. In particular, in the case of inference about the mean of a normal distribution, the sample mean is no longer the uniform minimum variance unbiased estimator (UMVUE). In this, I present a way in which the UMVUE for a normal mean can be calculated using software capable of determining the operating characteristics of a group-sequential test.
Polymyxin B. NMR evidence for a peptide antiobiotic with folded structure in water

Abstract Hydrochlorides of several members of the polymyxin family of peptide antibiotics have been studied by NMR at 250 MHz in H 2 O, D 2 O, and DMSO-d6. Deuterium exchange experiments carried out in D 2 O indicate the presence of at least five exchange-resistant amide protons in polymyxins B and E and in circulin. Polymyxin A shows no slowly exchanging amide protons. A cross-beta conformation is proposed for polymyxin B in which two intramolecular hydrogen bonds form between backbone peptide segments of the linear and cyclic parts of the molecule. This cross-beta conformation is suggested to be a general phenomenon in antibiotics and hormones containing a cyclopeptide linked to a linear peptide by a peptide bond. In particular, conformational similarities are seen between polymyxin B and bacitracin A. A space-filling model of the latter suggests a conformation which explains chemical properties of this peptide.
The Influence of Ownership Structure on How Firms Make Corporate Political Strategy Choices

This study integrates the research on corporate political strategy and corporate governance. Using the agency theory perspective, this study examines how corporate governance mechanisms such as ins...
Limb ischemia caused by small artery disease

The pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of limb ischemia due to small artery diseases are reviewed, based on records from over 400 patients who were examined since 1971. Details of prospective clinical, laboratory, and angiographic evaluation and long-term follow-up are presented. The predilection of small artery diseases for the upper extremity remains unexplained. Preliminary results with the use of nifedipine for chronic treatment of vasospastic symptoms are reported.
New poly(bisbenzoylamine imide) series: Synthesis and characterization

Three new series of poly(bisbenzoylamine imide)s, incorporating different aromatic diamines, have been synthesized. The polymers, obtained by the two-step procedure, have been characterized by DSC, TGA, X-ray, FTIR, and 1H-NMR methods. Thermal analysis showed glass transition temperatures in the range of 200°–250°C and decomposition at 430°–495°C. Most DSC runs displayed an exothermic event above Tg that was due to cold crystallization of the polymer molecules. A melting point was not observed. The new polymers, even before annealing, showed sharp X-ray diffraction patterns, evidence of semicrystallinity. The polymers, soluble in polar solvents, were analyzed by NMR in solution. Typical chemical shifts for the bisbenzoylamine protons were reported; FTIR spectra showed the characteristic imide peaks. Due to a near overlap of the carbonyl vibration of the imide group with the bisbenzoylamine carbonyl, the latter vibration was detected in only one series. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Genus Streptococcus – Part I: Emerging Pathogens in the “Pyogenic Cocci” and the “Streptococcus bovis” Groups

Abstract In this first part of a two-part update on the streptococci, new and emerging pathogens in the "pyogenic cocci group" and the " Streptococcus bovis group" are addressed. Among the pyogenic cocci, several new species have been described, and some of these are becoming relevant agents of human disease. Streptococcus porcinus and Streptococcus pseudoporcinus are β-hemolytic streptococci that are found in swine and humans, respectively. S. pseudoporcinus has been isolated primarily from the female genital tract and may play a role in genitourinary tract infections, wound infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Streptococcus iniae , Streptococcus hongkongensis , and Streptococcus ictaluri are fish pathogens, and S. iniae , in particular, has been isolated from several human infections in persons who handle raw seafood or experience penetrating injuries from fish spines or crab pincers. Streptococcus gallolyticus subspecies (i.e., the former " S. bovis group") are well-recognized causes of bacteremia, meningitis, and endocarditis. S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus is known to be associated with colon cancer, and current studies suggest that other S. gallolyticus subspecies (particularly S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus ) may also be associated with meningitis and other digestive tract malignancies. In this review, current research on S. gallolyticus subspecies and proposed mechanisms for their involvement in the pathogenesis of colonic carcinoma are also briefly addressed.
The in vitro synthesis and characteristics of ribosomal RNA in imaginal discs of Drosophila melanogaster.

Late third instar imaginal discs of Drosophila melanogaster cultured in vitro in Robb's tissue culture medium synthesize 38S, 28S and 18S ribosomal RNAs which are qualitatively indistinguishable from their in vivo synthesized counterparts (Fig. 1). As found in other insect systems, the 38S molecule appears to be the precursor for both the 28S and 18S rRNAs (Figs. 2, 3 and 4). The 28S rRNA and a portion of the 38S pre-rRNA shift in sedimentation value upon exposure to heat or dimethylsulfoxide (Figs. 5 and 8). Studies of the thermal denaturations of these molecules (Figs. 6, 7 and 9) indicate the existence of a single class of 28S rRNA, but three classes of 38S pre-rRNAs. The addition of β-ecdysone to the in vitro culture medium stimulates the net amount of rRNA synthesized, increases the rate of processing of the 38S precursor and increases the relative amount of 18S material produced (Figs. 10 and 12).
A nomogram that predicts the presence of sentinel node metastasis in melanoma with better discrimination than the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system.

The threshold and indications for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in patients with melanoma remain somewhat arbitrary. Many variables associated with SLN positivity have previously been identified, including a significant association between the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system and SLN status. We developed a user-friendly nomogram that takes several characteristics into account simultaneously to more accurately predict the presence of SLN metastasis for an individual patient. A total of 979 patients who underwent successful SLN biopsy for cutaneous melanoma at a single institution between February 1991 and November 2003 were included in the analysis. Predictors were used to develop a nomogram, based on logistic regression analysis, to predict the probability of SLN positivity. A large multi-institutional trial with 3108 patients was used to validate the predictive accuracy of the nomogram compared with the AJCC staging system. The nomogram was developed and found to be accurate and discriminating. The concordance index of the nomogram, a measure of predictive ability, was .694 when evaluated with the validation dataset. In contrast, the concordance index of the AJCC staging system was lower (.663; P < .001). Using commonly available clinicopathologic information, we developed a nomogram to accurately predict the probability of a positive SLN in patients with melanoma. This tool takes several characteristics into account simultaneously. This model should enable improved patient counseling and treatment selection.
The Role of TNPO3 in HIV-1 Replication

TNPO3, transportin-SR2 or Tnp3, a member of the karyopherin β superfamily of proteins, is important for the ability of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) to achieve productive infection, as TNPO3 depletion in human cells leads to a dramatic reduction of infection. Here we describe and discuss recent findings suggesting that TNPO3 assists HIV-1 replication in the nucleus and in fact that TNPO3 may assist PIC maturation in the nucleus. In addition, the viral determinant for the requirement of TNPO3 in HIV-1 infection is discussed. This paper summarizes the most significant recent discoveries about this important host factor and its role in HIV-1 replication.
The Madonna of the Writing Christ Child

At the end of the fourteenth century a unique and picturesque image of the Madonna and Child appeared in northern Europe. In it the Christ Child was represented with pen in hand busily scribbling in a book, a theme never depicted previously. Sometimes He nursed as He wrote, sometimes He paused to dip His pen into an inkpot. Study of this unusual image, which emerged at the hour when a changing outlook commenced to activate northern continental culture, should provide an index to the origins and movements of new creative forces and enable us to investigate beyond the image's artistic fact and its history into the essential tendencies of the human mind of which it was a symptom.1
Spawning and larval development of the black turban snail Tegula funebralis (Prosobranchia: Trochidae)

An understanding of spawning and larval development can be fundamental to interpreting the abundance, distribution, and population structure of marine invertebrate taxa. Tegula funebralis (A. Adams, 1855), the black turban snail, has been the focus of numerous ecological studies on the Pacific coast of North America. To date, there are only conflicting and anecdotal reports of spawning, and there is no information on larval or juvenile development for this conspicuous and abundant species. On 19 September 1995, two individuals of T. funebralis were observed free-spawning gametes into seawater in tanks at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology. Embryos and larvae were subsequently reared to metamorphosis and beyond. Development was pelagic and similar to development described for other trochids, and larvae were observed not to feed at any stage. Larvae began to metamorphose at 5.7 to 6.7 d and settled at 260 μm shell length. Juveniles grew ≃ 10 μm in shell length per day and appeared to feed on detritus. Juveniles lacked some adult diagnostic shell characters, including two columellar nodes and a closed umbilicus. In the field, small (<3 mm) juveniles occurred in the adult habitat on all sampling dates between October and March. Small juveniles were found only under rocks and were most abundant under rocks partially buried in coarse sand, suggesting that juveniles may utilize a specific microhabitat within the adult T. funebralis habitat.
Patient safety: effective interdisciplinary teamwork through simulation and debriefing in the neonatal ICU.

According to the Institute of Medicine, team training is necessary to promote a safe and high-quality patient care environment. The complexity of the neonatal ICU requires that interdisciplinary teams collaborate, coordinate, and communicate to achieve common goals and support families. The use of strategies from the aerospace, nuclear power, and national defense industries—simulation, and debriefing—equips health care providers with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary to perform effectively and safely. Families are encouraged to participate in simulation and debriefing so interdisciplinary teams can learn how to approach and support families when disclosing errors and to communicate sensitive information in a safe and nonthreatening environment.
The problem of reworked pollen and spores in marine sediments

Abstract Some pollen-and-spore assemblages found in ocean-bottom sediments contain many reworked plant microfossils. In the search for a method to separate the recycled pollen grains and spores from the primary assemblage recovered from Pleistocene and Recent ocean-bottom-core samples, it was found that morphologically distinct Tertiary and older pollen grains and spores accept Safranin O stain differently than do most of the Pleistocene or younger plant microfossils in the same assemblage. Variations in stain acceptance may be a reflection of exine-chemistry changes that took place during the reworking process. High percentages of reworked pollen and spores in sediments formed during periods of continental glaciation are thought to be the result of increased erosion resulting from base-level lowering. Large numbers of recycled plant microfossils in Pleistocene and even pre-Pleistocene sediments may be indicative of decreasing base levels associated with orogenic movements or former periods of continental glaciation. Secondary plant microfossils can offer important clues on the location of the source areas of marine sediments.
Two-dimensional modeling of the P-T-t paths of regional metamorphism in simple overthrust terrains

Quantitative modeling of metamorphic P - T - t paths in thrust belts has so far been limited to one-dimensional simplification. We have developed a two-dimensional time-dependent finite-element procedure, capable of tracing and updating fault and strata boundaries during faulting, for modeling thermal evolution of overthrust terrains. We show that the two-dimensionality of an overthrust and the speed and duration of thrusting have significant effects on the P - T - t paths of rocks in orogenic belts. The results suggest that petrological studies of P - T paths of rocks from different lateral positions in an orogenic belt, along with two-dimensional modeling procedure, can put strong constraints on models of regional tectonic processes.
TPV cell IV curve testing with varying black body emission temperatures, intensities, and cell temperatures

A TPV GaSb cell was tested as part of an effort to establish a standard method of characterizing such cells.
Groups acting on infinite dimensional symplectic spaces

Let \(\hbox {PG} (\infty,q)\) be a projective space of countably infinite dimension over the finite field GF (q) and let \(\pi \) be a symplectic polarity of \(\hbox {PG} (\infty,q)\). Then \(\hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {L} (\infty,q)\) is the full automorphism group of \(\hbox {PG} (\infty,q)\) and \(\hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {Sp} (\infty,q)\) is the subgroup of \(\pi\)-preserving elements of \(\hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {L} (\infty,q)\). In this paper, we shall prove that if G is a group such that \(\hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {Sp} (\infty,q) \le G \leq \hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {L} (\infty,q)\), then G induces \(\hbox {P} \Gamma \hbox {L} (W)\) on each finite dimensional subspace W of \(\hbox {PG} (\infty,q)\).
Murine DNA (Cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase: Steady-State and Substrate Trapping Analyses of the Kinetic Mechanism

DNA (cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase is essential for viable mammalian development and has a central function in the determination and maintenance of epigenetic methylation patterns. Steady-state an...
Investigation of ultrasmall volume microdisk cavities with embedded quantum dots

Ultrasmall volume (Veff ~ 2(lambda/n)3), fiber-coupled microdisks with embedded quantum dots are studied. Quality factors > 105, laser thresholds of ~ 1 muW, and differential (out-coupling) efficiencies of 16% (28%) are measured, and a spontaneous emission factor of 16% is estimated.
Differential utilization of leucyl-tRNAs by Escherichia coli

Abstract The utilization of the isoaccepting species of leucyl-tRNA in protein synthesis has been examined in E. coli. Two minor leucyl-tRNA species, isoacceptors tRNA3Leu and tRNA4Leu, are the predominant species found bound to ribosomes during exponential growth in minimal medium. In rich medium, an increased proportion of tRNA1Leu is found bound to ribosomes. One species, tRNA5Leu, is always absent from ribosomes. In a mutant strain in which normal tRNA3Leu and tRNA5Leu are reduced or absent, tRNA1Leu is a major ribosome-bound species in minimal medium. Protein synthesis in vitro with RNA from E. coli further suggests that tRNA5Leu is rarely used for total protein synthesis; however, this species is active with RNA from MS2 phage. We propose that tRNA1Leu can substitute for tRNA3Leu under rapid growth conditions, and that tRNA5Leu is used minimally in total protein synthesis.
Delaying toxigenesis of Clostridium botulinum by sodium lactate in ‘sous-vide’ products

The effect of sodium lactate and storage temperature on toxigenesis by proteolytic (Pr) and nonproteolytic (Np) Clostridium botulinum spores inoculated in processed ‘sous-vide’-type beef, chicken breast and salmon was explored. Three g samples of beef and salmon homogenates with 0, 2.4 and 4.8% (w/w) lactate and of chicken with 0, 1.8 and 3.6% (w/w) lactate were placed in 24-well tissue culture plates. The samples were inoculated with 104 spores of pools of Pr (4A + 2B + 2F strains) or Np (4B + 4E strains), vacuum-packaged in barrier bags, and stored at 16 and 30°C for Pr and at 4, 8, 12 and 30°C for Np for up to 90 d. Lactate at 2.4% in beef and 1.8% in chicken delayed toxigenesis by Np for 40 d at 12°C and by Pr for 28 d at 16°C. Delaying toxigenesis for similar periods of time in salmon required 4.8% lactate and 12°C for Np, and 2.4% lactate and 16°C for Pr. Increasing levels of lactate and decreasing temperature significantly delayed toxigenesis of Cl. botulinum in the ‘sous-vide’ products.