cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
H++: a server for estimating pKas and adding missing hydrogens to macromolecules

The structure and function of macromolecules depend critically on the ionization (protonation) states of their acidic and basic groups. A number of existing practical methods predict protonation equilibrium pK constants of macromolecules based upon their atomic resolution Protein Data Bank (PDB) structures; the calculations are often performed within the framework of the continuum electrostatics model. Unfortunately, these methodologies are complex, involve multiple steps and require considerable investment of effort. Our web server http://biophysics.cs.vt.edu/H++ provides access to a tool that automates this process, allowing both experts and novices to quickly obtain estimates of pKs as well as other related characteristics of biomolecules such as isoelectric points, titration curves and energies of protonation microstates. Protons are added to the input structure according to the calculated ionization states of its titratable groups at the user-specified pH; the output is in the PQR (PDB + charges + radii) format. In addition, corresponding coordinate and topology files are generated in the format supported by the molecular modeling package AMBER. The server is intended for a broad community of biochemists, molecular modelers, structural biologists and drug designers; it can also be used as an educational tool in biochemistry courses.
Microwave inverse scattering /spl minus/ local shape function imaging for improved resolution of strong scatterers

Local shape function imaging uses far-field microwave scattering data to reconstruct the presence or absence of small metal cylinders throughout space, in order to model arbitrary metallic objects. The reconstructed images represent the scattering amplitude at discrete locations in space with multiple scattering effects incorporated. Super-resolution is demonstrated for monochromatic image reconstructions. Even better reconstructions are obtained with multiple frequency data. The speed of computation is increased with a fast forward solver algorithm. Also, measured data is used in the local shape function imaging algorithm and the resolution is improved over diffraction tomography. >
John of Scythopolis on Apollinarian Christology and the Pseudo-Areopagite's True Identity

As is well known, the Corpus Dionysiacum (CD) first appeared on the stage of history in the first quarter of the sixth century; what is less well known is that within a generation of its appearance the CD was commented upon by an Orthodox author, John of Scythopolis (d.c. 548). Thereafter, the CD was circulated in a much expanded format—prefaced with John's Prologue and annotated with his Scholia. John's interpretive work, so close in time to the composition of the CD itself, holds forth the promise of great insight into the earliest stage of the reception of the Areopagite's works in the Christian East. Unfortunately, with the passing of time, John's remarks became so intermingled with the comments of later authors (such as Maximus the Confessor and Germanus of Constantinople) that until quite recently modern scholars have been unable to isolate John's Scholia with any degree of certainty. However, investigations of the Scholia are now entering a new stage, thanks in large part to the labors of Beate Regina Suchla. As she has demonstrated in a series of recent publications, it is possible to recover John's work through an early Syriac translation of the Scholia and a shorter Greek recension, both of which preserve the earliest version of the Scholia, that authored by John. To date, however, she has published results for the scholia on the Divine Names alone. Using a similar approach, the authors of this article have tentatively identified John's comments on the rest of the CD as well. It is now possible to begin examining thematic aspects of John's Scholia and to understand something of his intentions in commenting upon the CD. With this goal in mind, we here investigate John's comments on a number of intertwined issues, chiefly, the Christology of Apollinaris and the authenticity of the works of Dionysius.
A tale of discrimination: Differentiation of chlamydiaceae by polymerase chain reaction

We developed a nested, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for simultaneous detection and discrimination of three species of chlamydia in human and avian specimens to determine transmission of chlamydophila psittaci from infected birds to humans. The nested PCR strategy was used to increase sensitivity and to circumvent inhibitors of PCR present in clinical specimens. The target sequence of our PCR is the 16S ribosomal DNA gene. The first-step PCR is genus-specific, and the second-step is multiplexed (ie, has multiple primer sets in the same tube) and can simultaneously discriminate and detect Chlamydophila pneumoniae, C psittaci , and Chlamydia trachomatis on the basis of the molecular weight of the amplicon. With available tests, pet stores can fail to identify birds infected with C psittaci that are asymptomatic before sale. We used PCR and serological evidence during outbreaks of psittacosis to infer that C psittaci had been transmitted from birds purchased in pet stores to humans. We also used PCR to detemine whether both live and dead birds from pet stores in West Virginia were infected with C psittaci . Finally, PCR showed that a human lung sample from a man with atypical pneumonia in a rural town in Victoria, Australia, was infected with C psittaci and not with C pneumoniae , sometimes a difficult diagnosis for clinicians to distinguish.
Identification and Characterization of a Gene Cluster for Synthesis of the Polyketide Antibiotic 2,4-Diacetylphloroglucinol from Pseudomonas fluorescens Q2-87

The polyketide metabolite 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4-DAPG) is produced by many strains of fluorescent Pseudomonas spp. with biocontrol activity against soilborne fungal plant pathogens. Genes required for 2,4-DAPG synthesis by P. fluorescens Q2-87 are encoded by a 6.5-kb fragment of genomic DNA that can transfer production of 2,4-DAPG to 2,4-DAPG-nonproducing recipient Pseudomonas strains. In this study the nucleotide sequence was determined for the 6.5-kb fragment and flanking regions of genomic DNA from strain Q2-87. Six open reading frames were identified, four of which (phlACBD) comprise an operon that includes a set of three genes (phlACB) conserved between eubacteria and archaebacteria and a gene (phlD) encoding a polyketide synthase with homology to chalcone and stilbene synthases from plants. The biosynthetic operon is flanked on either side by phlE and phlF, which code respectively for putative efflux and regulatory (repressor) proteins. Expression in Escherichia coli of phlA, phlC, phlB, and phlD, individually or in combination, identified a novel polyketide biosynthetic pathway in which PhlD is responsible for the production of monoacetylphloroglucinol (MAPG). PhlA, PhlC, and PhlB are necessary to convert MAPG to 2,4-DAPG, and they also may function in the synthesis of MAPG.
Connectivity and convergence of single corticostriatal axons

The distribution of synapses formed by corticostriatal neurons was measured to determine the average connectivity and degree of convergence of these neurons and to search for spatial inhomogeneities. Two kinds of axonal fields, focal and extended, and two striatal tissue compartments, the patch (striosome) and matrix, were analyzed separately. Electron microscopic examination revealed that both kinds of corticostriatal axons made synapses at varicosities that could be identified in the light microscope, and each varicosity made a single synapse. Thus, the distribution of varicosities was a good estimate of the spatial distribution of synapses. The distance between axonal varicosities was measured to determine the density of synaptic connections formed by one axon within the volume occupied by a striatal neuron. Intersynaptic distances were distributed exponentially, except that synapses were rarely located
Human retinal pigment epithelial lysis of extracellular matrix: functional urokinase plasminogen activator receptor, collagenase, and elastase.

PURPOSE: To show (1) human retinal pigment epithelial (HRPE) expression of functional urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR; CD87), (2) HRPE secretion of collagenase and elastase, (3) uPAR-dependent HRPE migration, and (4) uPAR expression in diseased human retinal tissue. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry for uPAR was performed on cultured HRPE cells and in sections of human retina. Double-immunofluorescent staining of live human RPE cells with anti-CR3 antibody (CD11b) was performed to demonstrate the physical proximity of this beta 2 integrin with uPAR and determine whether associations were dependent on RPE confluence and polarity. Extracellular proteolysis by HRPE uPAR was evaluated using fluorescent bodipy-BSA and assessed for specificity by plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) inhibition. The effect of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) on uPAR expression was assessed. Collagenase and elastase secretion by unstimulated and IL-1-stimulated HRPE cells was measured by 3H-labelled collagen and elastin cleavage. HRPE-associated collagenase was also assessed by cleavage of fluorescent DQ-collagen and inhibited by phenanthroline. Using an extracellular matrix assay, the roles of uPAR and collagenase in HRPE migration were assessed. RESULTS: Immunoreactive uPAR was detected on cultured HRPE cells and increased by IL-1. On elongated, live HRPE cells, uPAR dissociated from CD11b (CR3) and translocated to anterior poles of migrating cells. Extracellular proteolysis was concentrated at sites of uPAR expression and specifically inhibited by PAI-1. Cultured HRPE cells secreted substantial, functional collagenase and elastase. IL-1 upregulated uPAR, collagenase, and elastase activities. Specific inhibition of uPAR, and to a lesser degree collagenase, reduced HRPE migration in matrix/gel assays. Immunoreactive uPAR was present along the HRPE basolateral membrane in retinal sections and in sections of diseased retinal tissue. CONCLUSIONS: HRPE cells express functional uPAR, collagenase, and elastase, which may permit HRPE proteolysis and migration. uPAR polarization may concentrate proteolysis at the leading edge of migrating HRPE cells.
Displays of Bird Movements on the WSR-88D: Patterns and Quantification*

Abstract The WSR-88D can readily detect birds in the atmosphere in both clear air and precipitation mode, and echo reflectivities of 30–35 dBZ may be realized during heavy migration events or when birds are departing a roosting site. This paper describes the appearance of birds on base reflectivity, base velocity, and velocity azimuth display wind profile products, and presents a calibration curve that relates decibel values of reflectivity to bird migration traffic rates. The recognition of bird displays in WSR-88D products is essential for the accurate interpretation of data gathered by the radar and its use in the development of forecasts. The findings also document the importance of the WSR-88D as a remote sensing tool for biological studies of birds and insects in the atmosphere and the application of such information in the avoidance of bird–aircraft collisions.
When and Why to Trust One’s Senses and Memory

One’s knowledge of a fact is either inferential or non-inferential, and either fallible or infallible, depending on the sort of externally conclusive justification one has for claiming to know it. All one’s inferential knowledge of contingent facts in the world outside one’s current state of consciousness is justified ultimately by one’s non-inferential knowledge. Although infallible knowledge (of necessary truths and of one’s current states of consciousness) comes into it, the principal part of this non-inferential basis of one’s knowledge of the `external’ world is formed by one’s fallible non-inferential knowledge. This fallible non-inferential knowledge consists of one’s non-inferential knowledge of one’s current perceptions of directly specifiable appearances of things around one (direct perceptions, let us call them) and of one’s memory knowledge (retained and original, of previous perceptions and of other sorts of facts, including general facts).
Restorative Design Features for Hospital Staff Break Areas: A Multi-Method Study

Objectives:The study investigated the main restorative components of staff break areas in healthcare facilities, by assessing usage patterns, verbal/visual preferences, and perceived restorative qualities of specific design features found in break areas for hospital staff.Background:Nurses are extremely important to the healthcare industry, and maintaining the quality of nursing care is a central concern for healthcare administrators. While healthcare leaders are concerned about improving nurses’ satisfaction, performance, and job retention, they may overlook the importance of respite for nurses and underestimate the value of designing staff break areas to maximize their restorative potential.Methods:A multi-method approach combined qualitative explorations (focused interviews and narrative survey questions) with quantitative measurements (discrete survey questions and a visual ranking of break-room spaces), and the results were compared and triangulated.Results:It was found that staff break areas are mor...
Shock compression response of highly reactive Ni + Al multilayered thin foils

The shock-compression response of Ni + Al multilayered thin foils is investigated using laser-accelerated thin-foil plate-impact experiments over the pressure range of 2 to 11 GPa. The foils contain alternating Ni and Al layers (parallel but not flat) of nominally 50 nm bilayer spacing. The goal is to determine the equation of state and shock-induced reactivity of these highly reactive fully dense thin-foil materials. The laser-accelerated thin-foil impact set-up involved combined use of photon-doppler-velocimetry to monitor the acceleration and impact velocity of an aluminum flyer, and VISAR interferometry was used to monitor the back free-surface velocity of the impacted Ni + Al multilayered target. The shock-compression response of the Ni + Al target foils was determined using experimentally measured parameters and impedance matching approach, with error bars identified considering systematic and experimental errors. Meso-scale CTH shock simulations were performed using real imported microstructures of...
Abstract 1829: Small molecule stabilization of the kRAS promoter G-quadruplex as a target for novel pancreatic cancer therapeutics

kRAS is one of, if not the, most prevalent oncogenic aberrations identified to date. It is either upregulated or mutationally activated in a multitude of cancers, including close to 100% of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Pancreatic cancer carries the highest mortality rate of all cancers, with only a 3-6 month median survival, and a 5-year survival of Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1829. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1829
When Do Endplates Work

The effect of the gap between endplates and wing sections on aerodynamic lift and drag forces was investigated. This was studied in order to determine the maximum gap distance at which flow can still be considered two-dimensional, and tip effects can be neglected. A non-dimensional distance, λ, was defined as the ratio of gap distance, d, to laminar boundary layer thickness, δt,laminar , over the endplate. Force balance measurements were taken for a NACA0012 wing section placed between two endplates at the Dryden Wind Tunnel facility. λ was varied for desired values of λ = {0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0} and data was taken at two different desired Reynolds numbers,Re = 50k & 100k for angles-of-attack, −10◦ ≤ α ≤ 10◦. Problems were encountered with the test apparatus and imperfections were noticed on the wing surface. However, considering a single, reliable data set atRe = 50k, the critical non-dimensional gap distance was determined to be λcritical = 1.0± 0.1, for the given airfoil. Given the widespread implications of such an investigation to wind tunnel testing, further experimentation is required.
The Decision to Deploy the ABM: Bureaucratic and Domestic Politics in the Johnson Administration

Why did the Johnson Administration decide in the late 1960's to deploy a ballistic missile defense system in the United States? In attempting to answer this question we need to seek an understanding of several distinct decisions and actions. The most puzzling event occurred in San Francisco on September 18, 1967, when Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara delivered an address to the editors and publishers of United Press International. McNamara devoted the first fourteen pages of his talk to a general discussion of the strategic arms race, emphasizing the limited utility of nuclear weapons and the fact that neither the United States nor the Soviet Union had gained any increased security from the arms race. With this as background, he turned to a specific discussion of the ABM issue
The Relationship Between Philanthropic Foundation Funding and State-Level Policy in the Era of Welfare Reform

Philanthropic foundations play important symbolic and leadership roles in public policy debates by conferring legitimacy upon specific social problems and policy solutions, but little is known about how they respond to policy change and the roles they adopt in relationship to government. We investigate the degree to which foundations are responsive to the policy environment and ask whether they adopt roles consistent with meeting social needs, promoting social innovation, or both. We also investigate how these roles vary by foundation type (independent, community, corporate) and size. Longitudinal data on grants made by more than 1,000 U.S. foundations during the welfare reform era of 1993-2001 show that during this time foundation grants were not responsive to population need; grants to safety net and social service programs did not increase. Large foundations and independent foundations focused on social innovation by funding research and workforce development and giving more in states pursuing policy i...
Sham Controls in Medical Device Trials

In light of mounting evidence that medical procedures can produce a strong placebo effect that can be mistaken for actual effectiveness, it may be time for more frequent use of interventional trials in which patients are unaware of their randomized assignment.
SBROME: A Scalable Optimization and Module Matching Framework for Automated Biosystems Design

The development of a scalable framework for biodesign automation is a formidable challenge given the expected increase in part availability and the ever-growing complexity of synthetic circuits. To allow for (a) the use of previously constructed and characterized circuits or modules and (b) the implementation of designs that can scale up to hundreds of nodes, we here propose a divide-and-conquer Synthetic Biology Reusable Optimization Methodology (SBROME). An abstract user-defined circuit is first transformed and matched against a module database that incorporates circuits that have previously been experimentally characterized. Then the resulting circuit is decomposed to subcircuits that are populated with the set of parts that best approximate the desired function. Finally, all subcircuits are subsequently characterized and deposited back to the module database for future reuse. We successfully applied SBROME toward two alternative designs of a modular 3-input multiplexer that utilize pre-existing logic ...
Climate Change and Kansas Water Management: Perspectives and Opportunities

Climate change is a critical issue that has begun to shape water management and planning on the federal and state levels. This study focuses on the potential to integrate climate change into Kansas statewide water planning and management. A survey was employed to understand the personal perspectives of Kansas water managers, planners, and decisionmakers in state agencies towards climate change and its integration into state-based water planning. Respondents were targeted at three agencies: the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Water Office, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture — Division of Water Resources; 37 of 64 respondents finished the survey. The survey results, along with a review of key Kansas water management plans, suggest that Kansas water managers are indeed responsive to climate variability and are starting to integrate climate variability into planning efforts. To promote successful integration, helpful lessons from the climate science-policy literature are provided, such as a description of potential barriers and strategies useful for effective integration.
Blow-up and global bound in a weighted norm to the solutions of ahigher order degenerate system of parabolic equations

Studied a system of higher order nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations with degeneracy or singularities by using corresponding eigenvalues and eigenfunctions to some suitable higher order equations.It is shown that if the nonlinear terms in the system grow fast,the solution will blow up in the weighted norm at a finite time and if the nonlinear terms in the system grow in a reasonable speed,the solution will be bounded in the norm defined in this paper in any finite time.
Study on Adsorption Performance of Ammonia Nitrogen by P Style Zeolite Synthesized from Fly Ash

Using fly ash as raw materials,synthesized zeolite in the alkali fusion-hydrothermal method.The appearance feature,specific surface area of the fly ash zeolite can be determined by XRD,SEM and TEM,at the same time we studied the adsorption properties of zeolite about ammonia nitrogen.The results indicated that: fly ash zeolite which was synthesized by the method of alkali fusion-hydrothermal was P type zeolite,which had uniform size distribution and regular pore structure.The specific surface area was 148.81 m2/g and the aperture was 3.821 nm.The optimum technological conditions were as follows: pH=6-8,reaction time,30 min,removal rate can reach 68.2%.
Cases in Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Fourth Edition

The third edition of this best-selling text presents interesting and challenging cases that make the study of medical microbiology and infectious diseases enjoyable and enable students to develop a working knowledge of the variety of microorganisms that cause infections in humans. Extensive introductory material explains in simple and concise language the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches that the clinical laboratory uses in assisting the physician in making infectious disease diagnoses. All of the approaches described are encountered in the cases that follow. The 68 cases are presented as “unknowns” and represent actual case histories the authors have encountered at two university teaching hospitals. Each case is accompanied by several questions to test knowledge in four broad areas: 1) the etiologic agent's characteristics and laboratory diagnosis; 2) pathogenesis and clinical presentation; 3) epidemiology; and 4) prevention and, in some cases, drug resistance and treatment. Whenever possible, the authors have incorporated cellular microbiology into the case discussion. Over 100 photographs allow students to familiarize themselves with the appearance of specific microorganisms in appropriate clinical settings. An extensive glossary explains the medical terminology to help students understand the language of medicine and make the cases accessible to all readers. Cases in Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases is a valuable tool for students preparing for the National Board of Medical Examiners examination Parts 1 and 2 as well as during clinical infectious disease rotations. Advanced undergraduate students, other professional students, physicians in training at both the resident and fellow stage, and faculty members at all levels will all find Cases a useful resource. Electronic Only, 440 pages, four-color illustrations throughout, glossary, index.
Digital versus traditional: Secondary students with visual impairments’ perceptions of a digital algebra textbook

IntroductionDigital textbooks are increasingly marketed and used, yet little research examines this medium. Within the limited research, even less investigates the role of digital textbooks in math...
The Lattice of Closure Operators on a Subgroup Lattice

ABSTRACTWe say a lattice L is a subgroup lattice if there exists a group G such that Sub(G)≅L, where Sub(G) is the lattice of subgroups of G, ordered by inclusion. We prove that the lattice of closure operators which act on the subgroup lattice of a finite group G is itself a subgroup lattice if and only if G is cyclic of prime power order.
MICROBIAL FLORA OF GULF OF MEXICO AND POND SHRIMP1,2

Bacterial counts of shrimp delivered by fishing vessels to processing plants varied greatly. Aerobic plate counts at 28 C ranged from 870–1,300,000 per gram. Either natural seawater or distilled water could be used in media preparation. The use of artificial seawater usually resulted in lower counts. The microbial flora of Gulf shrimp was dominated by coryneforms and species of Pseudomonas, Moraxella, and Micrococcus. Refrigerated storage usually caused an increase in Pseudomonas species. Bacterial counts of pond shrimp were much lower than those of Gulf shrimp. In some samples of pond shrimp Bacillus and Lactobacillus species were pre-dominant.
Increasing Trainee Reporting of Adverse Events With Monthly Trainee-Directed Review of Adverse Events

Abstract Objective Underreporting of adverse events by physicians is a barrier to improving patient safety. In an effort to increase resident and medical student (hereafter "trainee") reporting of adverse events, trainees developed and led a monthly conference during which they reviewed adverse event reports (AERs), identified system vulnerabilities, and designed solutions to those vulnerabilities. Methods Monthly conferences over the 22-month study period were led by pediatric trainees and attended by fellow trainees, departmental leadership, and members of the hospital's quality improvement team. Trainees selected which AERs to review, with a focus on common near misses. Discussions were directed toward the development of potential solutions to issues identified in the reports. Trainee submissions of AERs were tracked monthly. Results The mean number of AERs submitted by trainees increased from 6.7 per month during the baseline period to 14.1 during the study period ( P P = .0059). There was no significant increase in reporting by any other group (attending, nursing, or pharmacy). Multiple meaningful solutions to identified system vulnerabilities were developed with trainee input. Conclusions Trainee-led monthly adverse event review conferences sustainably increased trainee reporting of adverse events. These conferences had the additional benefit of having trainees use their unique perspective as frontline providers to identify important system vulnerabilities and develop innovative solutions.
Diversity begets diversity in competition for space

Competition can profoundly affect biodiversity patterns by determining whether similar species are likely to coexist. When species compete directly for space, competitive ability differences should theoretically promote trait and phylogenetic clustering, provided that niche differences are otherwise minimal. Yet many sessile communities exhibit high biodiversity despite minimal reliance on niche differentiation. A potential explanation is that intransitive competition ('rock-paper-scissors' competition) not only promotes species richness but also fosters coexistence among highly dissimilar species with different competitive strategies. Here, we test this hypothesis using a combination of empirical and analytical approaches. In an experimental system comprising 37 wood-decay basidiomycete fungi grown in nutrient-rich agar media, pairwise displacement was maximized when species had widely different competitive traits and divergent evolutionary histories. However, when these interactions were embedded in models of species-rich communities, high levels of intransitivity ultimately overwhelmed the pairwise relationships, allowing the weakest and most dissimilar species to survive. In line with theoretical expectations, these multispecies assemblages exhibited reduced functional and phylogenetic diversity, yet the smallest losses were likewise observed in species-rich communities. By demonstrating that species richness can act as a self-reinforcing buffer against competitive exclusion, these results contribute to our understanding of how biodiversity is maintained in natural systems.
Quantitative analysis of the morphology of {101} and {001} faceted anatase TiO2 nanocrystals and its implication on photocatalytic activity

The atomistic structure and morphology (shape and size) of nanomaterials have strong influences on their physical and chemical properties. However, many characterization techniques focus exclusively on one length-scale regime or another when developing quantitative morphology/structural models. In this article, we demonstrate that powder X-ray diffraction and neutron pair distribution function (PDF) can be used to obtain accurate average morphology and atomistic structure of {001} and {101} faceted anatase TiO2 nanocrystals based on differential evolution refinements using Debye scattering equation calculations. It is also demonstrated that the morphology polydispersity of TiO2 nanocrystals can be effectively obtained from the diffraction data via a numerical refinement routine. The morphology refinement results are in good agreement with those from transmission electron microscopy and the modeling of small angle neutron scattering data. This method is successfully used to quantify the facet-specified pho...
Abstract 3668: Oncolytic adenoviruses expressing OX40L or GITRL immune modulators show antitumor effect on immune-competent mouse breast cancer models

Metastasis of advanced stage cancers remains as the main cause of morbidity and mortality in oncologic patients. Metastatic cancers, especially those that metastasize to the brain, are generally resistant to conventional therapies. Thus, more innovative and efficacious therapies are urgently needed. Therapeutic goals are the specific targeting of malignant cells, shrinkage of stablished tumors, prevention and/or eradication of metastases and, ultimately, induction of a specific anti-tumor immune response. In this study we tested the efficiency of a treatment regimen consisting of oncolytic adenoviruses combined with specific immune regulators to prevent tumor progression and metastasis. In order to do so, mouse metastatic breast cancer cells 4T1 or 66c14, were orthotopically implanted in female BALB/c mice. The resulting primary tumors were treated with multiple doses of third generation adenoviruses targeting different immune checkpoints, such as, OX40/OX40L and GITR/GITRL pathways in the immune synapse. The treatment with these adenoviral constructs resulted in T cells activation and reduction of the metastases in 50% of the mice. In addition, the size and number of the metastases detected in lungs were significantly lower comparing with those observed in the control groups. Survival rates were also significantly different (P Citation Format: Francisco W. Puerta Martinez, Yisel A. Rivera, Teresa Nguyen, Xuejun Fan, Jared M. Henderson, Shifat Rehnuma, Mohammad B. Hossain, Hong Jiang, Juan Fueyo, Candelaria Gomez Manzano. Oncolytic adenoviruses expressing OX40L or GITRL immune modulators show antitumor effect on immune-competent mouse breast cancer models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3668. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3668
Stereoselective Postassembly CH Oxidation of Self-Assembled Metal-Ligand Cage Complexes

Self-assembled Fe-iminopyridine cage complexes containing doubly benzylic methylene units such as fluorene and xanthene can be selectively oxidized at the ligand backbone with tBuOOH, with no competitive oxidation observed at the metal centers. The self-assembled cage structure controls the reaction outcome, yielding oxidation products that are favored by the assembly, not by the reactants or functional groups. Whereas uncomplexed xanthene and fluorene control ligands are solely oxidized to the ketone equivalents with tBuOOH, the unfavorability of the self-assembled ketone cages forces the reaction to form the tbutyl peroxide and alcohol-containing oxidation products, respectively. In addition, the oxidation is diastereoselective, with only single isomers of the cage assemblies formed, despite the presence of as many as 10 stereocenters in the final product. The self-assembled structures exploit self-complementary hydrogen bonding and geometrical constraints to direct the postassembly reactions to outcomes not observed in free solution. This selectivity is reminiscent of the fine control of post-translational modification seen in biomacromolecules.
Generalized Array Imaging on Rupture Processes of Earthquakes: Principle and Theoretical Tests

This chapter introduces the principle of the back-projection method in the frame of the seismic wave propagation. This provides the solid basis for the technique. To further validate the method, synthesized waveforms are generated to apply the back-projection the procedure. The resultant imaging supports the argument that the relative back-projection method can mitigate the “swimming” artifacts in the traditional back-projection imaging results.
Strangeness Production in Pb+Pb at 158 GeV/Nucleon

At sufficiently high energy density and volume, strongly interacting matter is predicted to exist in a state, called the quark-gluon plasma (QGP), in which the color degrees of freedom are deconfined. In a QGP, the rate of production of strange quark- antiquark pairs should be higher than in the case of hadronic matter, leading to enhanced strangeness in the observed final state.
Using the UTeach Observation Protocol (UTOP) to understand the quality of mathematics instruction

The UTeach Observation Protocol (UTOP) was designed to inform STEM teacher education. The instrument has been used in prior studies examining inter-rater reliability and relationships to teacher value-added scores. However, prior work has not shown examples of how rating with the UTOP works in practice nor has it discussed the instrument’s strengths and limitations. Here, we describe how the UTOP draws upon theories and practices heavily emphasized in teacher preparation—including deep student engagement, classroom management, STEM content fluency, lesson structuring, and innovative instructional models. We then present the ratings of three sample elementary mathematics lessons on the UTOP. We show how the UTOP reveals important aspects of teachers’ instruction, and discuss key strengths and weaknesses of the instrument. We find that the UTOP provides a broad view of instructional practice useful for informing systemic professional development, while also addressing content-specific teaching behaviors critical to STEM teaching. However, it may be cumbersome to consider so many teaching indicators simultaneously, and less emphasis is given to theory-driven indicators of the development of mathematical reasoning. This article provides a novel theoretical, empirical, and practical base of knowledge for using or making decisions about whether to use the UTOP for math classroom observations.
Evaluation of radiation dose reduction via myocardial frame reduction in dynamic cardiac CT for perfusion quantitation

Dynamic contrast enhanced cardiac CT acquisitions can quantify myocardial blood flow (MBF) in absolute units (ml/min/g), but repeated scans increase X-ray radiation dose to the patient. We propose a novel approach using high temporal sampling of the input function with reduced temporal sampling of the myocardial tissue response. This type of data could be acquired with current bolus tracking acquisitions or with new acquisition sequences offering reduced radiation dose and potentially easier data processing and flow estimation. To evaluate this type of data, we prospectively acquired a full dynamic series [12 -18 frames (mean 14.5±1.4) over 23 to 44 seconds (mean 31.3±5.0 sec)] on 28 patients at rest and stress (N=56 studies) and examined the relative performance of myocardial perfusion estimation when the myocardial data is subsampled down to 8, 4, 2 or 1 frame(s). Unlike previous studies, for all frame rates, we consider a well-sampled input function. As expected, subsampling linearly reduces radiation dose while progressively decreasing estimation accuracy, with the typical absolute error in MBF (as compared to the full-length series) increasing from 0.22 to 0.30 to 0.35 to 1.12 ml/min/g as the number of frames used for estimation decreases from 8 to 4 to 2 to 1, respectively. These results suggest that high temporal sampling of the input function with low temporal sampling of the myocardial response can provide much of the benefit of dynamic CT for MBF quantification with dramatic reductions in the required number of myocardial acquisitions and the associated radiation dose (e.g. 77% dose reduction for 2-frame case).
Judgment and the Preparation of Educational Leaders

Should the topic of judgment have a place in the preparation and development of school leaders? This question serves as the focus for an examination of the nature of judgment and obstacles to good judgment. Judgment is defined as the ability to arrive at and make a choice when faced with incomplete information, uncertain conditions, and/or competing goals and values. The article argues that judgment and the related topics of decision making and problem solving are critical components of leader preparation. Suggestions are offered concerning judgment-related curriculum content and how it can be taught in pre-service and in-service settings.
Managed care in the genomics era: assessing the cost effectiveness of genetic tests.

Background Despite the fact that the Human Genome Project was completed only recently, genetic tests already have entered the marketplace, some with few or no long-term data to support their use. Managed care organizations will face reimbursement decisions for genetic tests on a growing scale, and they should have a framework in place to evaluate the clinical and economic outcomes of this new class of diagnostics. Objective To develop a set of criteria that could assist decision makers in evaluating the cost effectiveness of genetic testing. Methods A literature review was conducted of marketed genetic tests and criteria used to evaluate the clinical and economic benefits of genetic testing. Criteria were developed and pilot-tested on currently available genetic tests in colon cancer, periodontitis, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and anticoagulation. Results A robust cost-effectiveness analysis requires data demonstrating (1) genotype-phenotype association; (2) genetic variant prevalence; (3) clinical outcome severity and incidence; (4) interventions for the variant group; and (5) sensitivity, specificity, and timing of the assay result. In addition, calculating the number of patients who need to be screened based on the above factors is useful for evaluating genetic tests. Conclusions When evaluating a genetic test for reimbursement, these criteria can help to: (1) quantify the potential clinical benefit and economic savings; (2) assess the robustness of a cost-effectiveness analysis; and (3) clarify areas where data are deficient. These criteria should be used to inform the decision-making process in the context of ethical, legal, and social issues related to genetic testing.
Enriching Word Alignment with Linguistic Tags

Incorporating linguistic knowledge into word alignment is becoming increasingly important for current approaches in statistical machine translation research. To improve automatic word alignment and ultimately machine translation quality, an annotation framework is jointly proposed by LDC (Linguistic Data Consortium) and IBM. The framework enriches word alignment corpora to capture contextual, syntactic and language-specific features by introducing linguistic tags to the alignment annotation. Two annotation schemes constitute the framework: alignment and tagging. The alignment scheme aims to identify minimum translation units and translation relations by using minimum-match and attachment annotation approaches. A set of word tags and alignment link tags are designed in the tagging scheme to describe these translation units and relations. The framework produces a solid ground-level alignment base upon which larger translation unit alignment can be automatically induced. To test the soundness of this work, evaluation is performed on a pilot annotation, resulting in inter- and intra- annotator agreement of above 90%. To date LDC has produced manual word alignment and tagging on 32,823 Chinese-English sentences following this framework.
MODIFIED EQUATION METHODS FOR ONE-DIMENSIONAL FLAME PROPAGATION PROBLEMS

The stability boundaries of a modified one-dimensional parabolic equation are determined analytically as a function of the time discretization and of the numerical treatment of the appended term. It is shown that an explicit discretization of the modified parabolic equation results in a smaller stability domain than that of the standard explicit method. However, the stability boundaries are enlarged by treating the appended term implicitly. Modified equation methods are then used to analyze the propagation of a laminar flame through an ozone-oxygen mixture. It is shown that an explicit evaluation of the appended term may result in numerical instabilities which can be eliminated by using an implicit discretization. It is also shown that modified equation methods are more accurate than the second-order method of lines, explicit predictor-corrector and partial time-linearization techniques and less accurate than the fourth-order method of lines, compact operator and adaptive finite-difference and finite element schemes.
Retrospective Accounts in the Formation of an Agenda for Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice for Science Education

As a science educator, I promote a social justice agenda grounded in multiple theoretical perspectives, centered on the teaching and learning of science in urban classrooms. In this chapter, I articulate a vision for the preparation of teachers in science and address fundamental issues in preparing teachers for diverse urban classrooms. I also express this vision for the work of the NARST organization. As an organization, our individual and collective work must underscore broader social, political, economical, institutional, and cultural issues across various strands of research and teaching toward educating all students and supporting our cooperative work as science educators.
Cooperation without exploitation between self-interested agents

We study how two self-interested agents that play a sequence of randomly generated normal form games, each game played once, can achieve cooperation without being exploited. The agent learns if the opponent is willing to cooperate by tracking the attitude of its opponent, which tells how much the opponent values its own payoff relative to the agent’s payoff. We present experimental results obtained against different types of non-stationary opponents. The results show that a small number of games is sufficient to achieve cooperation.
Gender Disparities in Zika Virus Knowledge in a Potentially At-Risk Population from Suburban New York City

Abstract Zika virus is an emerging infection transmitted in multiple ways. In 2016 we assessed the level of knowledge about Zika virus transmission in an underserved, predominantly Hispanic, mixed gender population living in suburban New York City, many of whom potentially travel to affected regions. Based on a convenience sample of 147 participants, 134 (91%) were aware of Zika virus transmission by mosquitoes; 116 (79%) knew about transmission from a pregnant female to the fetus; and 89 (61%) were aware of sexual transmission. Age, marital status, education, and native language were unrelated to knowledge (P > 0.10). Women, however, were significantly more likely than men to know about sexual transmission (P = 0.023) and about maternal transmission to the fetus (P = 0.044). Travel to Zika virus endemic areas was unrelated to level of knowledge (P = 0.40). Greater awareness of the risk of sexual transmission of Zika virus is needed for at risk populations in the US, especially for males.
Biocolonialism: Examining Biopiracy, Inequality, and Power

Colonialism has for centuries been a driving force for territorial expansion and economic gains.In today’s globalized economy, colonial exploitation continues in areas with great biodiversity through the taking of indigenous knowledge and biodiversity for profit, also colloquially known as biopiracy.Biopiracy is a practice of economic exploitation by powerful multinational corporations (MNCs) that take on the identity and power structures of nation-states, with established laws protecting the corporations that obtain patents or intellectual property rights more readily than the original indigenous knowledge holders.This type of ‘biocolonialism’ has been instituted through neoliberal trade practices and the whittling away of indigenous control over traditional knowledge.This is done on the premise that indigenous knowledge is communal, and not privately ‘owned,’ and therefore available to everyone.This interpretation of intellectual property rights has allowed MNCs to coopt indigenous knowledge for profit.Biopiracy can extend to multiple forms, including drug patents, agricultural gene manipulation, and genetic cell lines.This paper will review literature on biocolonialism and biopiracy examples to critique the practice and examine counterhegemonic praxes.
The Development of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

Evolving from the development of heart-lung machines for open-heart surgery, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has reemerged as a rescue modality for patients with acute respiratory failure that ...
Transportation and immigrant political incorporation

The literature on political participation focuses on resources such as income and social capital in promoting individual engagement. This article highlights the role of transportation as a resource...
Light management on silicon utilizing localized surface plasmon resonance of electroless plated silver nanoparticles

In this paper, a time- and cost-effective method of fabricating a light management structure on the surface of planar silicon (Si) substrates is developed utilizing localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs). The Ag NPs are produced by an electroless plating method and then modified in hot water. The resulting randomly distributed Ag NPs can reduce the reflection of the Si surface in the entire visible spectrum. With the help of a MATLAB-based analytical model on Mie theory, the size distribution of Ag NPs for desired optical properties is determined, and the reflection of the best performance sample decreases by up to 24.8% at a wavelength of 371 nm. An atmospheric degradation study of the Ag NPs is also reported, which demonstrates that the LSPR response of unprotected Ag NPs is markedly impaired after 14 days, while the LSPR response of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) protected Ag NPs is unchanged even after 90 days. The Al2O3 coated sample also shows a strong reflection reduction, exhibiting a reflection of as low as 7.6% at a wavelength of 662 nm and a weighted average spectral reflectance (Rave) of 12.2%.