cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethnicity and cure rates of Texas children with acute lymphoid leukemia

BACKGROUND: Ethnic differences in the survival of children treated for acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) have been described in several locations. Children of African, Polynesian, Native American, and Mexican ancestry had a less favorable outcome than children of European ancestry when treated in a similar manner by the same physicians and nurses. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of the 94 European-American (E-A) and 84 Mexican-American (M-A) Texas children registered and treated in national collaborative ALL therapy trials at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston between 1974 and 1985 and followed through June 1994. Information was collected regarding age, sex, presenting clinical features, risk for relapse grouping, protocol assignment, event free survival, and the financial status of their families. Cure was defined as initial continuous complete remission for more than seven years and cessation of therapy for more than four years. Presenting characteristics of E-A and M-A children were compared, and then related to cure rates by univariate and multivariate analyses. Event free survival rates of E-A and M-A children were determined together and by sex. RESULTS: Comparing presenting features, financial status as identified by pay code was significantly less for M-A children. Other features were not significantly different. By univariate analysis, an age of 2 to 6 years, female sex, initial white blood cell count below 10,000/microL, low risk grouping, registration on the most recent protocol, and full pay status were significantly associated with higher cure rates. By multivariate analysis, male gender, high risk group, and registration on earlier protocols were found to be significantly associated with a low cure rate. Event free survival and cure rate were lower for M-A children, but the differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Further study of larger numbers of patients, including contemporary immunophenotypic and genotypic characterization of ALL, is needed for better definition of possible ethnic differences. Ethnicity and financial status should be included in the analysis of clinical trials of ALL therapy.
Atomic Emission/Fluorescence Spectrometry with Second Derivative Wavelength Modulation and Its Application to Analysis of Copper Alloy

Abstract Atomic emission and fluorescence signals were collected simultaneously with sinusoidal wavelength modulation and detection of the second harmonic mode. The system consisted of a continuum source, argon-separated air/acetylene flame and a wavelength-modulated monochrometor. Limits of detection of several elements were measured. This method was applied to the analysis of a copper alloy, and Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were successfully determined.
Effects of point-spread function on calibration and radiometric accuracy of CCD camera

The point-spread function (PSF) of a camera can seriously affect the accuracy of radiometric calibration and measurement. We found that the PSF can produce a 3.7% difference between the apparent measured radiance of two plaques of different sizes with the same illumination. This difference can be removed by deconvolution with the measured PSF. To determine the PSF, many images of a collimated beam from a He-Ne laser are averaged. Since our optical system is focused at infinity, it should focus this source to a single pixel. Although the measured PSF is very sharp, dropping 4 and 6 orders of magnitude and 8 and 100 pixels away from the point source, respectively, we show that the effect of the PSF as far as 100 pixels away cannot be ignored without introducing an appreciable error to the calibration. We believe that the PSF should be taken into account in all optical systems to obtain accurate radiometric measurements.
X-ray structure determination of fully hydrated L alpha phase dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers

Bilayer form factors obtained from x-ray scattering data taken with high instrumental resolution are reported for multilamellar vesicles of L alpha phase lipid bilayers of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine at 50 degrees C under varying osmotic pressure. Artifacts in the magnitudes of the form factors due to liquid crystalline fluctuations have been eliminated by using modified Caille theory. The Caille fluctuation parameter eta 1 increases systematically with increasing lamellar D spacing and this explains why some higher order peaks are unobservable for the larger D spacings. The corrected form factors fall on one smooth continuous transform F(q); this shows that the bilayer does not change shape as D decreases from 67.2 A (fully hydrated) to 60.9 A. The distance between headgroup peaks is obtained from Fourier reconstruction of samples with four orders of diffraction and from electron density models that use 38 independent form factors. By combining these results with previous gel phase results, area AF per lipid molecule and other structural quantities are obtained for the fluid L alpha phase. Comparison with results that we derived from previous neutron diffraction data is excellent, and we conclude from diffraction studies that AF = 62.9 +/- 1.3 A2, which is in excellent agreement with a previous estimate from NMR data.
HISTORICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF CULTURE GROWTHS AND ORGANIC EVOLUTION

American Anthropologist NEW SERIES Vol. 33 APRIL-JUNE, No.2 HISTORICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF CULTURE GROWTHS AND ORGANIC EVOLUTION By A. L. KROEBER this essay is to discuss certain similarities T HE purpose of reconstruction respectively of culture growths of by aim and method in the anthro­ pologists and of organic history or evolution by biologists. 1. Cultures, especially in their cyclic aspects, have sometimes been compared to organisms. They are however obvious composites: more or less fused aggregates of elements of various origin, ancient and recent, na­ tive and foreign. They are therefore more truly similar to faunas and floras, which also are composities or aggregates of constituent animal or plant spe­ cies which often are of quite diverse origin in space and time; and the aggregate wholes are representative of, or bound to, natural regions. The nearest analogues to culture areas, such as the West African or Southwest American, therefore are faunal areas like the Holarctic or Neotropical; and cultures are comparable to biotas. Following this comparison further, one may compare species to culture traits or elements, and genera or families to culture trait complexes. It is plain that this analogy must not be pushed too far, especially as concerns its second half. A culture complex often is polyphyletic; a genus is, almost by definition, monophyletic. However, the analogy does at least refer to the fact that culture elements like species represent the smallest units of material which the historical anthropologist and biologist respec­ tively have to deal with. 2. Corresponding to relatively stationary or persistent culture traits or complexes like flint chipping, and to retarded cultures like that of Tasmania, there are long persistent and slowly altering groups of animals such as the sharks, and isolated, retarded faunal areas like Australia and New Zealand. Conversely there can be recognized rapidly diffusing or expanding traits and species, and cultures arid faunas subject to invasion and marked by change.
ISVD‐5 Canine leproid granuloma in the northeastern United States

Four cases of canine leproid granuloma were diagnosed in the spring and summer of 2003 by the Laboratory of Toxicology and Pathology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. All dogs presented with one or more firm, often bilateral, ulcerated nodules on the dorsal ear fold. Excisional biopsies revealed nodular areas of granulomatous to pyogranulomatous inflammation with intracellular acid-fast bacilli. Two dogs, a 10-year-old, neutered male Rottweiler and a 6-year-old, spayed female Rottweiler, had no travel history outside of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. A 5-year-old, female beagle and a 6-year-old, spayed female greyhound travelled throughout the eastern United States, but no travel was reported during the time the lesions developed. Two dogs responded completely to surgical excision. Two dogs required multiple excisional biopsies and oral doxycylcine (5 mg/kg twice daily) or orbifloxacin (10 mg/kg daily) before lesions resolved. Nine additional cases were identified retrospectively since 1991. These included three additional greyhounds, three mixed-breed dogs, a Chesapeake Bay retriever, an Airedale terrier, and an English springer spaniel. Of the 13 total dogs, 11 had lesions located on the pinna, one on the muzzle, and one on the nasal planum. This is the first documentation of canine leproid granuloma in this region of the United States. Funding: Self-funded.
Scapulothoracic anatomy for the arthroscopist

Abstract Because endoscopic management has recently been introduced as treatment for painful subscapular snapping, we designed a cadaveric study to identify the boundaries of the scapulothoracic spaces and the relationship of important neurovascular structures to safe portal sites for arthroscopic surgery. We studied eight fresh, unembalmed cadaveric shoulders by anatomic dissection alone and eight fresh, unembalmed cadaveric shoulders by dissection after arthroscopy. We noted the following findings: (1) the scapulothoracic articulation has two triangular spaces, the serratus anterior space and the subscapularis space, that are divided obliquely by the serratus anterior muscle; (2) the boundaries of the larger serratus anterior space include the chest wall anteriorly, the serratus anterior muscle posteriorly, and the rhomboids medially; (3) the boundaries of the subscapularis space are the serratus anterior muscle anteriorly, the subscapularis muscle posteriorly, and the axilla laterally; and (4) a well-defined bursa occupies the serratus anterior space. Based on these findings, we recommend that portals for arthroscopic surgery should be inferior to the spine of the scapula and three to four fingerbreadths from the vertebral border of the scapula (1) to avoid the neurovascular structures at the superomedial angle of the scapula, (2) to avoid the dorsosacpular nerve and artery, and (3) to prevent perpendicular orientation of the arthroscope to the lateral chest wall.
Oxygen submonolayers on Mo(112): structure and work function

Correlation between the work function change and the structure of oxygen submonolayers on the Mo(112) surface are studied using low-energy electron diffraction (LEED), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and contact potential difference (CPD) methods. Oxygen was adsorbed at temperatures T = 78−300 K and thereafter the adlayers were annealed in a wide temperature range up to oxygen desorption. Temperature induced irreversible and reversible phase transitions are investigated. With coverage growth, formation of the monolayer proceeds through three first-order phase transitions, one of which is featured by a specific change in the course of the work function dependence on coverage. It is suggested that during this transition the oxygen adatoms may change their sites on the substrate from those of a short-bridge type to quasi-threefold ones, thus increasing their coordination number from two to three.
Creating a Current Awareness Service Using Yahoo! Pipes and LibGuides

Migration from print to electronic journals brought an end to traditional current awareness services, which primarily utilized print routing. The emergence of Real Simple Syndication, or RSS feeds, and email alerting systems provided users with alternative services. To assist users with adopting these technologies, a service utilizing aggregate feeds to the library’s electronic journal content was created and made available through LibGuides. Libraries can resurrect current awareness services using current technologies to increase awareness and usage of library-provided electronic journal content. The current awareness service presented is an example of how libraries can build simple current awareness services utilizing freely accessible technologies.
Time-to-turbidity model for non-proteolytic type B Clostridium botulinum☆

A model to predict the time for growth to turbidity from spores of non-proteolytic type B strains of Clostridium botulinum was developed in broth media with varying temperatures (4-28 degrees C), pH values (5-7), NaCl additions (0-4%) and total spores (10(1)-10(5)). The model estimates the probability that a sample will have growth on a given day for up to 90 days of storage. The parameters of the model include the probability of growth after 90 days (Pmax) and the mean time of growth (tau) for those that showed growth. The 95% confidence interval (CI95%) for tau was also determined. The tau decreased with increasing temperature and pH, but NaCl levels below 3% had little effect. Decreasing the number of spores in a sample increased both tau and the confidence intervals about tau, reflecting the increasing uncertainty about the estimation of growth times for low spore numbers.
Examining the relationship between physical and occupational therapists and their patients with multiple sclerosis

This study examines the relationship between physical and occupational therapists (referred to collectively as therapists) and their patients with multiple sclerosis. Specifically, the purposes of this study were to quantify the relationship between (a) therapists' attitudes toward persons with disabilities and their patients' satisfaction, and (b) between therapists' general life values and their patients' satisfaction. An additional purpose was to determine which variable type, attitudes or values, was the most effective predictor of patient satisfaction. Seventy-eight patient/professional dyads contributed data, and a statistically significant multiple correlation was evident between therapists' attitudes and their patients' satisfaction (R=.426,F(7,70)=2.21,p<.043). The relationship between therapists' values and their patients' satisfaction was nonsignificant. These results support anecdotal literature indicating that for persons with disabilities, therapists' individual difference variables relate to how patients rate their satisfaction with their health care. In addition, the results suggest the use of attitude change interventions as a way of improving these relationships.
Population pharmacokinetics of troxacitabine

Purpose Troxacitabine (TROX) is a L-cytidine analogue anticancer agent currently in phase II/III trials. The study's objective is to develop & validate a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model for TROX. Methods Plasma samples from 111 cancer patients receiving IV doses of 0.12 – 12.5 mg/m2 were used to develop the PPK model with NONMEM. About 13 samples per patient were obtained from the 1st dose. 2 covariate groups (I: BSA, SEX, AGE, SCR; II: WT, HT, SEX, AGE, SCR) & PK parameters were evaluated by linear multiple regression. The 2 final PPK models were validated by internal & external methods. Results TROX PPK was characterized by a 3-compartment model, exponential interpatient variability (IPV) error model, combination residual error model, & FOCE INTER estimator method. Clearance was influenced by BSA (27% decrease IPV) or WT (20% decrease IPV). Central compartmental volume was influenced by BSA (12% decrease IPV). Model validations reveal both final models accurate in predicting plasma TROX concentrations with improved PK parameter predictions with the addition of covariates. Conclusion Covariate modeling supports the use of BSA in current dosing strategies for TROX. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, P82–P82; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.11.312
A Generational and Sex-Based View of Managerial Work Values

In a study of 252 managers' work values for those born during the US baby-boom of 1946–64 and those born before the baby-boom were compared; sex differences also were examined. The most important work value in both groups is accomplishment, but significant differences between groups suggest that baby-boom managers—regardless of sex—base their belief systems more on humanistic/moralistic values than do prebaby-boom managers whose values are more traditionally pragmatic.
Macrophage cell-conditioned medium promotes cholinergic differentiation of undifferentiated progenitors and synergizes with nerve growth factor action in the developing basal forebrain.

Conditioned medium from stimulated microglia and from the monocyte/macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7; MC-CM) promotes the differentiation of cholinergic neurons from undifferentiated progenitors in the septal nuclei and adjacent basal forebrain (BF). We have studied the regulation of this process by measuring the activity of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in cultured BF taken from embryonic day 16 rat brain. Inhibition of either xanthine oxidase with allopurinol or nitric oxide synthase with N(G)-monomethyl-l-arginine produces a small but significant improvement in the efficacy of MC-CM while inclusion of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, a hydroxyl radical scavenger widely used as an antioxidant, lowers MC-CM-induced ChAT activity. Addition of nerve growth factor (NGF) but not brain-derived neurotrophic factor or glial-derived neurotrophic factor together with MC-CM has a synergistic effect on both ChAT activity and ChAT mRNA, raising ChAT activity as much as 29-fold and ChAT mRNA almost 15-fold. While MC-CM raised mRNA for trkA, the effect was not synergistic with NGF. mRNA for the common neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) showed a modest synergistic increase. Blockade of the Ras/Raf/ERK [extracellular signal-regulated kinase, also known as mitogen-activated protein [(MAP) kinase] signal transduction pathway with either PD28059 (an inhibitor of MAP kinase/ERK kinase kinase or MEK) or N-acetyl-S-farnesyl-l-cysteine (an inhibitor of Ras farnesylation and, hence, activation) inhibited the action of MC-CM. Moreover, a subpopulation of cells responded rapidly to MC-CM with an increased appearance of phosphorylated ERK. Because NGF also utilizes this pathway, synergy may occur along this signal transduction pathway.
Duration of fever during treatment of infective endocarditis

We reviewed the duration of fever among 123 patients treated for infective endocarditis at University Hospitals of Cleveland between 1972 and 1984. One half of these patients became afebrile within 3 days after initiation of antibiotic therapy and nearly three quarters were afebrile after 1 week of therapy. After 2 weeks of therapy, nearly 90% had defervesced. Endocarditis due to Staphylococcus aureus or gram-negative bacilli, and culture-negative endocarditis, were associated with prolonged fever. Microvascular phenomena, major vessel embolization, or vegetations seen on 2-D echocardiogram also were associated with prolonged fever. Multivariate analysis revealed that only microvascular phenomena or major vessel embolization were independently associated with longer duration of fever. Endocarditis-associated mortality among patients who remained febrile after 1 week of therapy was 18%, and this was greater than the 2% mortality among patients who defervesced (p less than 0.002). These data suggest that prolonged fever during treatment of infective endocarditis is often due to tissue infarction or vascular injury. Prolonged fever also identifies patients at higher risk of a fatal outcome.
Measuring agility as a performance outcome

Purpose – The purpose of this research was to construct a quantitative, objective metric for agility performance that assesses agility as a performance outcome, capturing both organizational success and environmental turbulence, and applicable to manufacturing organizations of all types.Design/methodology/approach – The agility performance metric was developed by creating a theoretical model and then operationalizing the model through literature review, case studies, and pilot survey data. It was subsequently refined, based on input from an expert panel and survey responses.Findings – The agility performance metric is demonstrated using data from four manufacturing plants, which represent the four possible combinations of success and turbulence.Research limitations/implications – The agility metric developed is consistent with the theoretical model, as well as empirical evidence from the demonstration companies. Further validation of the metric is necessary to fully establish this approach as a valid and ...
The interaction between pitting corrosion, grain boundaries, and constituent particles during corrosion fatigue of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy

Concomitant corrosion fatigue research was performed on 7075-T6 aluminum alloy to gain an increased understanding of how microstructure influences pit growth, pit-to-crack transition, and critical crack propagation to fracture. Two thicknesses of rolled sheet and an extrusion of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy were etched and subjected to concomitant corrosion fatigue in a 3.5% sodium chloride solution. Testing was interrupted at various intervals to obtain information on pit generation, growth, and potential cracking. Results indicated that microstructure has a significant influence on pit-to-crack transition and fatigue crack propagation. Constituent particles competed with corrosion pits as critical crack nucleation sites, with some affecting the critical crack by either nucleation of additional cracking or linkage with the main crack. Post-fracture analysis confirmed the presence of noncritical cracks within the corroded region, related to pitting and constituent particles.
Individual and Combined Effects of Relaxin, Estrogen, and Progesterone in Ovariectomized Gilts. II. Effects on Mammary Development*

Marked development of the mammary parenchyma (ducts, lobules, and alveoli) occurs during the last third of the 115-day gestation period in the gilt. These changes in the mammary gland are temporally correlated with elevated blood levels of relaxin, estrogen, and progesterone. We recently demonstrated that relaxin plays a major role in promoting the development of the mammary parenchyma that occurs in pregnant gilts. The roles of estrogen and progesterone in the mammary gland in gilts remain poorly understood. Accordingly, this study determined the influence of relaxin, estrogen, and progesterone, individually and in combination, on mammary development. Fifteen days after ovariectomy, six to eight nonpregnant sexually mature gilts were assigned to one of the following eight treatment groups: ovariectomized controls, relaxin treated, estrogen treated, progesterone-treated, estrogen plus relaxin treated, progesterone plus relaxin treated, estrogen plus progesterone treated and progesterone plus estrogen plus...
Sasaki's Pivotal Contribution: Calculus of Variations Applied to Weather Map Analysis

Yoshikazu Sasaki developed a variational method of data assimilation, a cornerstone of modern-day analysis and prediction in meteorology. Fundamentally, he formulated data assimilation as a constrained minimization problem with equality constraints. The generation of this idea is tracked by analyzing his education and research at the University of Tokyo in the immediate post–World War II (WWII) period. Despite austere circumstances—including limited financial support for education, poor living conditions, and a lack of educational resources—Sasaki was highly motivated and overcame these obstacles on his path to developing this innovative method of weather map analysis. The stages of his intellectual development are followed where information comes from access to his early publications, oral histories, and letters of reminiscence. It has been argued that Sasaki’s unique contribution to meteorological data assimilation stems from his deterministic view of the problem—a view founded on the principles of variational mechanics. Sasaki’s approach to the problem is compared and contrasted with the stochastic view that was pioneered by Arnt Eliassen. Both of these optimal approaches are viewed in the context of the pragmatic–operational objective analysis schemes that were developed in the 1950s–1960s. Finally, current-day methods [e.g., three- and four-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR and 4DVAR)] are linked to the optimal methods of Eliassen and Sasaki.
Visual and semantic factors in recognition from long-term memory.

In recognition tests, physical and semantic relationships between targets and distractors have been shown, in separate manipulations, to affect the latency of subject’s decision. Recognition was tested for distractors which were visually similar or dissimilar to targets and which belonged to the target categories or to nontarget categories in order to examine the interaction of these dimensions. Rejection latency was longer for target category than for nontarget category distractors. Latency was also longer for visually similar than visually dissimilar distractors, but only when combined with target category probes. This interaction can be explained by the hypothesis that word recognition depends on the analysis of several dimensions of the probe stimulus, and rejection can occur before all such analyses have been completed.
Silent allele as genetic basis of fucosidosis.

SEVERAL individuals have been recognised as having an almost complete deficiency of the lysosomal hydrolase α-L-fucosidase (EC 3.2.1.51) in their tissues and body fluids1–7. This condition (designated fucosidosis) is associated with the accumulation of fucose-containing glycolipids and glycoproteins in various tissues1,5. The clinical manifestations include coarse facial features, progressive psychomotor regression, susceptibility to respiratory infections and severe neurological signs, including generalised spasticity. Two distinct forms of fucosidosis (types 1 and 2) have been recognised7. Both are characterised by a virtually complete deficiency of α-fucosidase activity when assayed with artificial substrates. Physical and mental deterioration, however, proceeds far more rapidly in type 1 and these patients do not survive beyond early childhood. Type 2 patients can survive to adult life3. Additional features which distinguish the two forms of the disease are the presence, in type 2 only, of the skin lesion, angiokeratoma corporis diffusum, and an elevation in type 1 only, of the NaCl concentration in sweat7.
High-Pressure Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Indomethacin in Plasma, After Ointment Application and Oral Administration

AbstractA sensitive, simple and rapid method for the quantitation of indomethacin in plasma using 1-(p-fluorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methylindole acetic acid as the internal standard was developed. The method is based on reversed phase high-pressure liquid chromatography using a mobile phase continuing acetonitrile - 0.1M acetic acid (55/45 v/v). Indomethacin quantities as low as 0.1 mcg/ml can be assayed with a relative standard deviation of ± 0.07. Sensitivity can be increased by using lower sensitivity settings.
Concurrent Measurements of Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Exchange during Lightflecks in Maize (Zea mays L.).

Leaves of maize (Zea mays L.) were enclosed in a temperature-controlled cuvette under 35 Pa (350 [mu]bars) CO2 and 0.2 kPa (0.2%)O2 and exposed to short periods (1–30 s) of illumination (light-flecks). The rate and total amount of CO2 assimilated and O2 evolved were measured. The O2 evolution rate was taken as an indicator of the rate of photosynthetic noncyclic electron transport (NCET). In this C4 species, the response of electron transport during the lightflecks qualitatively mimicked that of C3 species previously tested, whereas the response of CO2 assimilation differed. Under short-duration lightflecks at high photon flux density (PFD), the mean rate of O2 evolution was greater than the steady-state rate of O2 evolution under the same PFD due to a burst of O2 evolution at the beginning of the lightfleck. This O2 burst was taken as indicating a high level of NCET involved in the buildup of assimilatory charge via ATP, NADPH, and reduced or phosphorylated metabolites. However, as lightfleck duration decreased, the amount of CO2 assimilated per unit time of the lightfleck (the mean rate of CO2 assimilation) decreased. There was also a burst of CO2 from the leaf at the beginning of low-PFD lightflecks that further reduced the assimilation during these lightflecks. The results are discussed in terms of the buildup of assimilatory charge through the synthesis of high-energy metabolites specific to C4 metabolism. It is speculated that the inefficiency of carbon uptake during brief light transients in the C4 species, relative to C3 species, is due to the futile synthesis of C4 cycle intermediates.
Adaptation to low pH modifies thermal and thermo-chemical responses of mammalian cells

The thermal and thermochemical survival responses of mammalian cells growing routinely at pH 7.4 are affected by extracellular pH. The cells show an increase in sensitivity when heated at pH values below about pH 7 0. The possibility that this sensitivity at low pH can be modified by maintaining the cells at pH 6.8 (‘EP-2’ cells) or pH 6.5 (‘EP-1’ cells) was examined. When Chinese hamster cells (HA-1) were exposed to 42°C at pH 6.5, 6.8 and 7.4, a dramatic increase in sensitivity was seen at pH 6.5. EP-2 cells similarly exposed showed considerably less difference at the three pH values. Variations in survival due to these pH changes were almost eliminated when the EP-1 cells were exposed to 42°C. HA-1 cells tended to develop less thermotolerance rates and did so possibly at a reduced rate at pH 6.8 when compared to pH 7.4; the reduced pH had only a minor effect on the ability of EP-2 cells to develop thermotolerance. The effects of pH adaptation on the pH dependence of drug cytotoxicity at 37°C or at 43°C...
Neutralization of Human Papillomavirus Type 11 (HPV-11) by Serum from Women Vaccinated with Yeast-Derived HPV-11 L1 Virus-like Particles: Correlation with Competitive Radioimmunoassay Titer

Neutralization of human papillomavirus type 11 (HPV-11) has been demonstrated using serum and cervical secretions from primates vaccinated with virus-like particles (VLPs). Theoretically, neutralizing antibodies could protect women from HPV infection. The immunogenicity of a yeast-derived HPV-11 L1 VLP vaccine was tested in women. Serum specimens were evaluated for HPV-11 titer by competitive radioimmunoassay (cRIA) and for neutralization by use of the athymic mouse xenograft system. Analysis of serum from 104 subjects showed a dose response in HPV-11 cRIA titers and neutralization. Overall, 68 (82.9%) of 82 postimmunization serum specimens from VLP recipients were 100% neutralizing when used in the assay at a 1:50 dilution. Of 69 serum specimens, 63 (91.3%) with cRIA titers >200 milliMerck units per milliliter were neutralizing. Immunization with HPV VLPs elicits a vigorous serum immune response in a high percentage of women. The HPV-11 cRIA titer appears to be a surrogate marker for neutralization.
The use of polarimetric and interferometric SAR data in floodplain mapping

Recent advances in polarimetric SAR show promise for augmenting the capability of traditional interferometric SAR. In particular, a polarimetric topography technique provides useful slope information, and polarimetric interferometry may be used to decompose the response into vegetation and ground surface contributions. Here we discuss an integrated approach that utilizes the combined capability of regular (single channel) interferometry, polarimetric interferometry and polarimetric topographic mapping for topographic mapping of flood-prone areas.
Regional differences in the force-frequency relation of human left ventricular myocardium in mitral regurgitation: implications for ventricular shape.

Sphericalization of the left ventricular (LV) chamber shape in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) contributes to increased LV wall stress and energy consumption. On the basis of previous obser...
Accurate Spatial Resolution Estimates for Reactive Supersonic Flow with Detailed Chemistry

Ar obust method is developed and used to provide rational estimates of reaction zone thicknesses in onedimensional steady gas-phase detonations in mixtures of inviscid ideal reacting gases whose chemistry is described by detailed kinetics of the interactions of N molecular species constituted from L atomic elements. The conservation principles are cast as a set of algebraic relations giving pressure, temperature, density, velocity, and L species mass fractions as functions of the remaining N‐L species mass fractions. These are used to recast the N‐L species evolution equations as a self-contained system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations of the form dYi/dx = fi (Y1 ,..., YN‐L). These equations are numerically integrated from a shock to an equilibrium end state. The eigenvalues of the Jacobian of fi are calculated at every point in space, and their reciprocals give local estimates of all length scales. Application of the method to the standard problem of a stoichiometric Chapman‐Jouguet hydrogen‐air detonation in a mixture with ambient pressure of 1 atm and temperature of 298 K reveals that the finest length scale is on the order of 10 −5 cm; this is orders of magnitude smaller than both the induction zone length, 10 −2 cm, and the overall reaction zone length, 10 0 cm. To achieve numerical stability and convergence of the solution at a rate consistent with the order of accuracy of the numerical method as the spatial grid is refined, it is shown that one must employ a grid with a finer spatial discretization than the smallest physical length scale. It is shown that published results of detonation structures predicted by models with detailed kinetics are typically underresolved by one to five orders of magnitude.
Scaling of geological discontinuity normal load–deformation response using fractal geometry

The mechanical behaviour of discontinuities in rock, such as joints, is known to be size-dependent. It is also suspected that the behaviour of larger size features, such as faults, is also size-dependent. This size dependence has serious implications for performing numerical response simulations of geological media. In this paper, we develop a new mathematical theory for scaling of one particular discontinuity property, namely the interface normal stiffness. To accomplish this, we idealize an interface to have fractal geometry, and we develop analytical relations which show that the interface normal stiffness, which is commonly thought to be a size-independent property, is in fact a size-dependent property and has fractal characteristics that may be exploited to develop a fundamental theory for scaling.
Cumulative oxytocin dose during induction of labor according to maternal body mass index.

Abstract Objective To determine the cumulative oxytocin dose needed to achieve vaginal delivery among obese and non-obese women. Methods A retrospective study was undertaken of women with singleton, term (≥ 37 weeks) pregnancies who delivered at an institution in California, USA, between May 1 and July 31, 2012. Women were deemed to be obese when their body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) was 30 or above. Cumulative oxytocin doses were calculated for women who achieved vaginal delivery. Results Overall, 413 women were included. Among 357 women for whom BMI data were available, 204 (57.1%) were obese. Vaginal delivery was achieved in 379 women. Among women who received augmentation after spontaneous labor onset, obese women trended towards more cumulative oxytocin (minimum: 24.7 ± 100.5 mU among women with a BMI of 18.50–24.99; maximum: 1580.5 ± 2530.5 mU among women with a BMI of 35.00–39.99; P = 0.086). Women who underwent induction of labor required significantly more oxytocin with increasing BMI class ( P Conclusion Obese women required a larger cumulative oxytocin dose to achieve vaginal birth during labor induction, but not during augmentation of labor. The physiology of spontaneous labor could supersede or influence the metabolic derangement facing obese patients undergoing induction of labor.
Reply to Hide

Professor Hide's Comment [1987, this issue] on Chao [1985, henceforth C85] seems ambiguous to me -it is a repetition of some irrelevant material from Barnes et al. [1983, henceforth B83] and Hide [1984, henceforth H84]. I found no problem with the content of this Comment (including the objectives of B83 and H84 listed toward the end of the Comment -which I was alleged to have "misunderstood"), except for the very last few sentences (and, of course, an earlier remark on how confused and confusing C85 has been). But even the latter do not touch the heart of the
In-Vivo Measurement of Dynamic Joint Motion Using High Speed Biplane Radiography and CT: Application to Canine ACL Deficiency

Dynamic assessment of three-dimensional (3D) skeletal kinematics is essential for understanding normal joint function as well as the effects of injury or disease. This paper presents a novel technique for measuring in-vivo skeletal kinematics that combines data collected from high-speed biplane radiography and static computed tomography (CT). The goals of the present study were to demonstrate that highly precise measurements can be obtained during dynamic movement studies employing high frame-rate biplane video-radiography, to develop a method for expressing joint kinematics in an anatomically relevant coordinate system and to demonstrate the application of this technique by calculating canine tibio-femoral kinematics during dynamic motion. The method consists of four components: the generation and acquisition of high frame rate biplane radiographs, identification and 3D tracking of implanted bone markers, CT-based coordinate system determination, and kinematic analysis routines for determining joint motion in anatomically based coordinates. Results from dynamic tracking of markers inserted in a phantom object showed the system bias was insignificant (-0.02 mm). The average precision in tracking implanted markers in-vivo was 0.064 mm for the distance between markers and 0.31 degree for the angles between markers. Across-trial standard deviations for tibio-femoral translations were similar for all three motion directions, averaging 0.14 mm (range 0.08 to 0.20 mm). Variability in tibio-femoral rotations was more dependent on rotation axis, with across-trial standard deviations averaging 1.71 degrees for flexion/extension, 0.90 degree for internal/external rotation, and 0.40 degree for varus/valgus rotation. Advantages of this technique over traditional motion analysis methods include the elimination of skin motion artifacts, improved tracking precision and the ability to present results in a consistent anatomical reference frame.
Bacterial diversity patterns along a gradient of primary productivity

Primary productivity is a key determinant of biodiversity patterns in plants and animals but has not previously been shown to affect bacterial diversity. We examined the relationship between productivity and bacterial richness in aquatic mesocosms designed to mimic small ponds. We observed that productivity could influence the composition and richness of bacterial communities. We showed that, even within the same system, different bacterial taxonomic groups could exhibit different responses to changes in productivity. The richness of members of the Cytophaga-Flavobacteria-Bacteroides group exhibited a significant hump-shaped relationship with productivity, as is often observed for plant and animal richness in aquatic systems. In contrast, we observed a significant U-shaped relationship between richness and productivity for a-proteobacteria and no discernable relationship for b-proteobacteria. We show, for the first time, that bacterial diversity varies along a gradient of primary productivity and thus make an important step towards understanding processes responsible for the maintenance of bacterial biodiversity.
Does Representation Matter in IRS Office Audits

Tax practitioners often represent clients before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is generally assumed that clients enjoy significant benefits when represented by a tax practitioner during an IRS audit, such as limitations on the final assessment of tax and penalties. To the best of our knowledge, there is no research that directly analyzes the impact of taxpayer representation on IRS audit outcomes because there is no data on whether the taxpayer was represented. This research provides empirical evidence regarding one of the perceived benefits of representation—a reduction in the final tax assessment by the IRS—and is a first step in determining when an individual should hire a professional representative for an IRS office audit. The results indicate that the final tax assessment is significantly less for taxpayers with representation during an IRS office audit, both in dollars and as a percentage of the potential deficiency.
Peripheral nerve grafts promoting central nervous system regeneration after spinal cord injury in the primate.

Object. Partial restoration of hindlimb function in adult rats following spinal cord injury (SCI) has been demonstrated using a variety of transplantation techniques. The purpose of the present study was twofold: 1) to determine whether strategies designed to promote regeneration in the rat can yield similar results in the primate; and 2) to establish whether central nervous system (CNS) regeneration will influence voluntary grasping and locomotor function in the nonhuman primate. Methods. Ten cynomologus monkeys underwent T-11 laminectomy and resection of a 1-cm length of hemispinal cord. Five monkeys received six intercostal nerve autografts and fibrin glue containing acidic fibroblast growth factor (2.1 µg/ml) whereas controls underwent the identical laminectomy procedure but did not receive the nerve grafts. At 4 months postgrafting, the spinal cord—graft site was sectioned and immunostained for peripheral myelin proteins, biotinylated dextran amine, and tyrosine hydroxylase, whereas the midpoint of t...
Woods from the Miocene Bakate Formation, Ethiopia Anatomical characteristics, estimates of original specific gravity and ecological inferences

An assemblage of permineralized woods from the Miocene Bakate Formation, Fejej Plain, Ethiopia, is described. This assemblage of twelve wood types differs from other Miocene wood assemblages known from Ethiopia. Cell wall percentages of the woods were determined to estimate the original specific gravities of the woods in order to better understand the Miocene vegetation and environment of Fejej. The relatively high specific gravities (0.63 to 0.82) and numerous and narrow vessels of these Miocene woods are characteristics of dry deciduous forests or woodlands. The affinities of some of the Fejej woods could not be determined because critical diagnostic features could not be determined, but others have characteristics seen in the Sapotaceae, Leguminosae, Combretaceae, and Bignoniaceae (a ring porous wood). None of the families represented by a fruit and seed assemblage from Fejej are represented in the wood assemblage. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Lack of association of mutations in optineurin with disease in patients with adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma.

Objective To determine whether mutations in the optineurin gene contribute to susceptibility to adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma. Methods The optineurin gene was screened in 86 probands with adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma and in 80 age-matched control subjects. Exons 4 and 5, containing the recurrent mutations identified in patients with normal-tension glaucoma, were sequenced in all individuals studied, while the remaining exons were screened for DNA sequence variants with denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography. Results The recurrent mutation, Met98Lys, previously found to be associated with an increased risk of disease was found in 8 (9%) of 86 probands. We also found the Met98Lys mutation in 10% of individuals from a control population of similar age, sex, and ethnicity. Consistent segregation of the mutation with the disease was not demonstrated in any of the 8 families. No other DNA changes altering the amino acid structure of the protein were found. Conclusion The mutations in the optineurin gene associated with normal-tension glaucoma are not associated with adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma in this patient population. Clinical Relevance Genetic abnormalities that render the optic nerve susceptible to degeneration are excellent candidates for genetic factors that could contribute to adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma. Mutations in optineurin have been associated with normal-tension glaucoma, but are not associated with disease in patients with adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma. This result may indicate that normal-tension glaucoma is not necessarily part of the phenotypic spectrum of adult open-angle glaucoma.
Interaction of ammonium, glucose, and chitin regulates the expression of cell wall-degrading enzymes in Trichoderma atroviride strain P1.

Chitinolytic and glucanolytic fungal cell wall-degrading enzymes have been suggested to be primary determinants of biocontrol by Trichoderma spp. We examined the effects of ammonium, glucose, chitin, and chito-oligomers on transcription of specific genes and secretion of fungal cell wall-degrading enzymes. The genes ech42, nag1, and gluc78 were examined, as were the enzymes they encode (endochitinase CHIT42, N-acetylhexosaminidase CHIT73, and glucan exo-1,3-β-glucanase GLUC78, respectively). gluc78 could be induced by nitrogen starvation alone, while both ech42 and nag1 required nitrogen starvation and the presence of chitin for induction. Starvation for both ammonium and glucose resulted in very early expression and secretion of all cell wall-degrading enzymes examined. In the presence of low levels of ammonium (10 mM), both chito-oligomers and chitin triggered CHIT42 and CHIT40 (chitobiosidase) production. CHIT73 secretion occurred in the presence of N-acetylglucosamine and chito-oligomers, while chitin was less effective. The presence of different chito-oligomers resulted in secretion of specific N-acetylhexosaminidases, of which CHIT73 is one. Our results indicate that the expression and secretion of cell wall-degrading enzymes is nitrogen repressed, that effects of carbon and nitrogen nutrition are interactive, and that especially for chitinolytic enzymes, the inductive effect of chitin is altered by the level of ammonium or glucose in the medium.
On the number of directions determined by a three-dimensional points set

Let P be a set of n points in R3, not all of which are in a plane and no three on a line. We partially answer a question of Scott (Amer. Math. Monthly 77 (1970) 502) by showing that the connecting lines of P assume at least 2n - 3 different directions if n is even and at least 2n - 2 if n is odd. These bounds are sharp. The proof is based on a far-reaching generalization of Ungar's theorem concerning the analogous problem in the plane.