cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Binocular interaction of orientation and spatial frequency channels: Evoked potentials and observer sensitivity

The interaction between size and orientation feature processing in the human visual system was investigated. Both observer sensitivity (d’ss) and the visual evoked potential (VEP) to test gratings flashed to one eye were investigated as a function of the nature of a continuously presented suppressing grating viewed either by that same eye or the opposite eye. The test and suppressing gratings were varied both in bar width (9′ss vs. 36′ss) and orientation (vertical vs. horizontal). The continuous grating intra- and interocularly suppressed the monocular VEPs to the flashed grating, the specificity of the suppression depending on the latency at which VEP amplitude was measured. VEP amplitude measured at early latencies (100–125 msec) was suppressed primarily when the flashed and continuous gratings were the same orientation, regardless of size. Starting at about 200 msec, and thereafter, VEP amplitudes were suppressed when the continuous bars were either the same orientationor size as the flashed bars. Late latencies, starting at 220 msec, and thereafter, were suppressed primarily when the bars in the two gratings were the same orientation and size. The reduction in observer sensitivity (d′ss) paralleled the changes found in the late VEP measures. These effects were evident under both the intraocular and interocular suppressing conditions. This pattern of VEP suppression, measured across eight points in the VEP waveform, was interpreted as indicating the existence of a sequence of channels that are specific first to a particular grating orientation, then to either a particular grating spatial frequency or orientation, and finally to the conjunction of a particular orientation and spatial frequency. Both sequential and parallel feature processing appears to take place in the human visual cortex, with grating orientation being encoded earlier than grating size.
CONVERTIBLE DEBT AND RISK‐SHIFTING INCENTIVES

I argue that convertible debt, in contrast to its perceived role, can produce shareholders’ risk-shifting incentives. When a firm’s capital structure includes convertible debt, every investment decision affects not only the distribution of the asset value but also the likelihood that the debt will be converted and thereby the distribution of the firm’s leverage. This suggests that managers can engage in riskincreasing projects if a higher asset risk generates a more favorable distribution of leverage. Empirical evidence using 30 years of data supports my argument. JEL Classifications: G31, G32, G33 I. Introduction One of the primary reasons identified in the literature for issuing convertible debt is mitigating the risk-shifting (asset substitution) problem. Following the work of Jensen and Meckling (1976) and Galai and Masulis (1976), Green (1984) shows that because convertible debt reverses the convex shape of levered equity over the upper range of the firm’s value, it reduces the incentive of shareholders to engage in risk-increasing projects. Studies extending Green’s work show that the ability of convertible debt to reduce risk-shifting incentives may vary under different frameworks (e.g., Barnea, Haugen, and Senbet 1985; Frierman and Viswanath 1993; Chesney and Gibson-Asner 2001; Ozerturk Forthcoming), yet they all agree that providing bondholders with conversion rights helps mitigate the risk-shifting problem. In this article, however, I argue and find that the presence of convertible debt can produce shareholders’ risk-increasing incentives. When a firm’s capital structure includes convertible debt, every project undertaken affects not only the distribution of the value of the firm’s assets but also the likelihood that the debt will be converted and thereby the distribution of the firm’s leverage. Because the capital structure of a firm affects its value, managers should take into consideration the effect of new projects on the expected leverage. This suggests that managers can have incentives to engage in risk-increasing projects if a higher asset risk generates a more desirable distribution of leverage.
Inhibition of Survivin and Aurora B Kinase Sensitizes Mesothelioma Cells by Enhancing Mitotic Arrests

Purpose: Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene family, has also been shown to regulate mitosis. It binds Aurora B kinase and the inner centromere protein to form the chromosome passenger complex. Both Aurora B and survivin are overexpressed in many tumors. In this study, we examined whether irradiation affected survivin and Aurora B expression in mesothelioma cells, and how inhibition of these molecules affected radiosensitivity. Methods and Materials: ZM447439 and survivin antisense oligonucleotides were used to inhibit survivin and Aurora B kinase respectively. Western blot was performed to determine the expression of survivin, Aurora B, phosphorylated-histone H3 (Ser 10), and caspase cleavage. Multinucleated cells were counted using flow cytometry, and cell survival after treatment was determined using clonogenic assay. Results: At 3-Gy irradiation an increase was observed in levels of survivin and Aurora B as well as the kinase activity of Aurora B, with an increase in G2/M phase. The radiation-induced upregulation of these molecules was effectively attenuated by antisense oligonucleotides against survivin and a small-molecule inhibitor of Aurora B, ZM447439. Dual inhibition of survivin and Aurora B synergistically radiosensitized mesothelioma cells with a dose enhancement ratio of 2.55. This treatment resulted in increased formation of multinucleated cells after irradiation but did not increase levels of cleaved caspase 3. Conclusion: Inhibition of survivin and Aurora B induces mitotic cell arrest in mesothelioma cells after irradiation. These two proteins may be potential therapeutic targets for the enhancement of radiotherapy in malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Characterization of stacked die using die-to-wafer integration for high yield and throughput

We have developed a die-to-wafer integration technology for high yield and throughput for the formation of high bandwidth, high performance, and short-distance interconnections in three-dimensional (3D) stack applications. The results show that multiple 70-mum thick die can be successfully assembled in stacks on top of a wafer using a single bonding step, rather than by repeated sequential bonding steps. In this study, 1-die, 3-die, and 6-die stacks were assembled and the electrical resistance of link chains consisting of through-silicon-vias (TSVs), low-volume lead-free interconnects, and Cu wiring links was measured. The average resistance of the TSV including the lead-free interconnect was as low as 21 mOmega. The stacking throughput can be dramatically improved by this die-to-wafer integration technology and the contact resistance and reliability test results suggest that a reliable integration technology can be used for 3D stack applications.
Compressed neighbor discovery for wireless ad hoc networks: The Rayleigh fading case

Fast and efficient neighbor discovery is crucial to the deployment of wireless ad hoc networks. Conventional random access neighbor discovery schemes assume a collision model for the medium access control layer and require each neighbor to transmit its identity repeatedly with random delay to resolve collision. This paper proposes a compressed neighbor discovery scheme which jointly detect all neighbors simultaneously by allowing them to simultaneously report their identity using structured signaling. The compressed neighbor discovery scheme consists of non-coherent (energy) detection followed by a simple, efficient algorithm based on group testing, which is easy to implement in wireless terminals. The performance of the scheme is characterized for networks of any given size, assuming that transmissions are subject to Rayleigh fading. The compressed neighbor discovery scheme is shown to achieve faster and more reliable neighbor discovery than existing random access schemes. For example, in a wireless ad hoc network of ten thousand nodes, where each nodes has on average six neighbors, the compressed neighbor discovery scheme is 40% faster.
Giant cell formation and function

Purpose of review To provide insight into the current state of understanding regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of various types of multinucleated giant cells. Recent findings Recent studies involving mainly osteoclasts and foreign body giant cells have revealed a number of common factors, for example, vitronectin, an adhesion protein, dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein, a fusion factor, and macrophage fusion receptor, that contribute to giant cell formation and function. Insight into common molecules, receptors, and mediators of adhesion and fusion mechanisms of giant cell formation have been complicated by the wide diversity of species, models, and cell types utilized in these studies. Summary These recently identified factors together with the well known osteoclast receptor, alphavbeta3, may serve as potential therapeutic targets for the modulation and inhibition of multinucleated giant cell formation and function. Further studies on intracellular and intercellular signaling mechanisms modulating multinucleated giant cell formation and function are necessary for the identification of therapeutic targets as well as a better understanding of giant cell biology.
Abu Ghraib as a Microcosm: The Strange Face of Empire as a Lived Prison

Drawing on Derrida, Foucault, Dorothy Smith, Anzaldua, Wallerstein, Said, and Gurdjieff, among others, this article argues that the strangeness of Abu Ghraib—“father of the strange (or of the stranger)”—has less to do with what went on inside the prison and more with the global prison yard. Strange is how we, global spectators of the prison abuses, continue to stand on shaky cardboard boxes of rising and falling empires with hoods of amnesia and evasion put on our minds, and sophisticated media wires of true or false fears manipulating our emotions. To escape from prison, a mystic once said, one must first realize one is in prison. The inquiry is used as grounds for advancing a discourse on Newtonian and quantal sociological imaginations in favor of a Sociology of Self-knowledge.
Lymphatics in health and disease: a new thematic series in Vascular Cell

Vascular Cell is launching new series on lymphatics, a vascular system required for physiological fluid balance and immunity, and whose damage leads to edema.
The Pluralism of International Criminal Law

This Article develops a pluralist account of substantive international criminal law (ICL). Challenging the dominant assumption among theorists and practitioners, it argues that the search for consistency and uniformity in ICL is misguided, that the law applicable to international crimes should not be the same in all cases, and that those guilty of like crimes should not always receive like sentences. In lieu of a one-size-fits-all criminal law, this Article proposes a four-tiered model of ICL that takes seriously the national laws of the state or states that, under normal circumstances, would be expected to assert jurisdiction over a case. After briefly surveying historical complexities concerning the definition and scope of ICL, the Article focuses on standard justifications for the existence of ICL. It looks in particular to justifications rooted in international relations, gravity considerations, and enforcement concerns. While each account provides powerful reasons for seeking uniformity with respect to some components of ICL, neither in isolation nor in combination do these rationales demand uniformity with respect to the entire content of ICL. In particular, these standard theories have difficulty explaining why ICL should seek to monopolize those aspects of criminal responsibility that speak more to the general nature of criminality than to any specific goal of ICL. A review of general rule-of-law values - including the values of consistency, legality, administration, normative development, and avoiding jurisdictional chaos - yields similar results, affirming that contingent domestic law has a vital role to play in ICL prosecutions. The Article next undertakes a case study of the Erdemovic decision, in which the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) announced a new rule of ICL rejecting duress as a complete defense to murder. A close reading of the tribunal’s reasoning reveals that the ICTY would have done better to apply Bosnian law considering the Court’s inability to articulate why the special context or purpose of ICL requires a specific result, the normative shortcomings of both the majority and dissent’s positions, and the availability of a suitable approach under domestic law. The Article then elaborates upon this analysis to set forth a four-tiered model of substantive ICL comprising: (1) truly universal principles of ICL, (2) tribunal-specific rules, (3) rules constraining the acceptable range of domestic discretion, and (4) default rules. While this model has powerful normative force, it also provides a coherent and superior framework for understanding the actual content of ICL in its current state of development.
Photochlorination in a tubular reactor

A method of describing the behavior of a single-phase, photochemical reaction in a tubular flow reactor is given. A simplified form of the equations is applied to experimental data for the chlorination of propane. The results indicate that the reaction rate is second order in chlorine concentration and first order in light intensity at the wall. Independent experimental actinometer measurements permit the determination of absolute values of the kinetic constants. Such data are rarely available for photochemical reactions. Filter solutions flowing through a jacket around the reactor is shown to be a practical method for studying the effects of light intensity, as well as for cooling the reactor. The optical efficiency of the reactor lamp system was 11%.
Current Management Guidelines in Thoracic Surgery

Thoracic surgery, as a specialty, covers a great breadth of pathology and care. Thoracic surgeons deal with a variety of conditions affecting multiple organs and systems, from benign processes such as hyperhydrosis and achalasia to multiple malignancies, both primary and metastatic. The optimal management of such a diverse group of patients is very complex. For clinical questions, guidelines have been developed. Guidelines may represent an institutional approach from extensive experience or collaborative efforts within or between societies. They usually serve to provide clarity in an area where multiple strategies may exist or where treatment strategies are evolving. For these guidelines, an exhaustive search of the literature is performed with the level of evidence weighted and statements made about the management of a disease or process based on the best available evidence. The guidelines are vetted and published and serve to set standards and guide care.
Intercalation of cationic dyes in the DNA double helix: introductory theory

The effect of salt on the intercalation of acridine dyes and DNA is rather well explained by the Gouy-Chapman double-layer theory as applied to a cylinder model of the DNA–dye complex. The free energy of transfer of a dye ion from the bulk solution to the complex is divided into several parts, one of which, ΔF0, accounts for the short-range, nonelectrostatic interactions. The assumption that ΔF0 should not depend on the amount of dye in the complex leads to an internal dielectric constant of the cylinder of about Di = 7. The scatter in ΔF0 values, as calculated from individual experimental points, is of order 0.5 kT per dye ion. This scatter is large enough to mask possible effects of heterogeneity in DNA sequences. The calculations are made for a long cylinder with radius 10 A, with the DNA phosphate charges smeared uniformly at the surface, a uniform spacing of dye charges at the cylinder axis, and a length of b = 3.37 A per base pair. Each intercalated dye ion also adds a length b to the total length of the cylinder. The salt-dependent part of the electric free energy of intercalation, ΔF1, is tabulated for complexes with r = 0–0.24 dye ions per DNA phosphate in 0.002–0.2M monovalent salt and dye solutions.
Gradient-Based Feature Selection for Conditional Random Fields and its Applications in Computational Genetics

Gene prediction is one of the first and most important steps in understanding the genome of a species, and different approaches haven been proposed. In 2007, a de novo gene predictor, called CONTRAST, based on Conditional Random Fields (CRFs) is introduced, and proved to substantially outperform previous predictors. However, the oversize feature set used in the model has posed several issues, like overfitting problem and excessive computational demand. To resolve these issues, we did a thorough survey of two existing feature selection methods for CRFs, namely the gain-based and gradient-based methods, and applied the later one to CONTRAST. The results show that with the gradient-based feature selection scheme, we are able to achieve comparable or even better prediction accuracy on testing data, using only a very small fraction of the features from the candidate pool. The feature selection method also helps researchers better understand the underlying structure of the genomic sequences, further provides insights of the function and evolutionary dynamics of genomes.
Impaired TCR-mediated induction of Ki67 by naive CD4+ T cells is only occasionally corrected by exogenous IL-2 in HIV-1 infection.

Perturbations in naive T cell homeostasis and function may play a major role in the immunodeficiency that accompanies HIV infection. By examining naive CD4 + T cell function on a single cell basis, we provide evidence that these cells have significant qualitative defects in HIV disease. Ki67, a molecule expressed during cell cycle progression, is induced less efficiently among naive CD4 + T cells from HIV-infected individuals following activation with anti-TCR Ab. The impairment in Ki67 expression is evident even when a separate function, CD62L down-modulation, is within normal ranges. Moreover, the defects in Ki67 induction are only sometimes corrected by the addition of rIL-2 to cell cultures. An initial assessment of IL-2 unresponsiveness in cells from selected HIV-infected individuals suggests that the defect is not a consequence of impaired IL-2R expression or IL-2R signaling capability. Qualitative defects in naive T cells that cannot be routinely corrected by IL-2 have significant implications for disease pathogenesis and for strategies using IL-2 as a vaccine adjuvant in HIV disease.
Employment in Service Activities and Inequality in Metropolitan Areas

This article explores the influence of various service industries on male earnings inequality within the 125 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. The data indicate that service sector e...
An immunoelectrochemical sensor for salivary cortisol measurement

An immunoelectrochemical sensor based on alkaline phosphatase (AP) enzyme for determination of salivary cortisol concentration is reported. Microfabricated Au electrodes encased in a microfluidic chamber were functionalized to immobilize the cortisol capture antibodies. The reaction product p-nitrophenol (pNP) generated by reacting the AP enzyme attached to the cortisol antigen via detector antibodies with the p-nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP) solution. pNP was detected as an oxidative peak between 0.9 and 1.1 V (vs. Ag pseudo-reference electrode) using cyclic voltammetry (CV) at room temperature. The magnitude of the peak varies linearly with the cortisol concentration, and was used to quantify the concentration of cortisol in real saliva samples. This immunoelectrochemical detection method accurately measured cortisol in the collected saliva samples achieved to a concentration of 0.76 nmol/L with an incubation time of 10 min. We demonstrate successfully the approach for establishing diurnal cortisol concentration behavior for clinical purposes with numerous advantages: a much higher throughput capability, significantly lower amounts of the sample, sub-pmol/L range sensitivity, higher resolution at low mass ranges, and easy to use.
Signal Conditioning with Almost No Multiplications via Filter Sharpening

Filter sharpening creates a filter network using the same computationally simple filter or selections from a set of computationally simple filter. Applications include high-quality signal conditioning using fixed-point arithmetic and only a handful of mostly add/subtract arithmetic operations to compute each output sample value. Applied to electrocardiogram baseline wander removal, for example, the highpass filter has 3 dB corner at 0.25 Hz and better than 40 dB attenuation, yet meets stringent EC-13 medical standard performance constraints.
Threshold states in 26Al: (I). Experimental investigations

Abstract States in 26 Al near the 25 Mg + p threshold have been investigated using the 25 Mg( 3 He, d) 26 Al reaction in order to locate levels which may serve as s-wave 25 Mg + p resonances in the energy region characteristic of stellar hydrogen burning. One such state, with J π = (2, 3) + , has been observed at an excitation energy E x = 6343 keV, corresponding to a proton resonant energy of E c.m. = 37.2 keV. Studies on the 25 Mg(d, p) 26 Mg reaction indicate that the 6125 keV state in 26 Mg is the isobaric analog to this 26 Al state, and a spin-parity J π = 3 + is deduced for the 6125 keV state in 26 Mg, through measurements of the 26 Mg(α, α') 26 Mg reaction. The γ-ray branching ratios for the 6343 keV state in 26 Al have been measured using the 27 Al( 3 He, αγ) 26 Al reaction, and it has been established that the decay of this state ultimately populates the ground state 57 % of the time. Similarly, the decay of the 6400 keV state in 26 Al, studied via the 24 Mg( 3 He, p, γ) 26 Al reaction, has been found to populate the ground state approximately 80% of the time.
Cranial morphology of Australopithecus afarensis: a comparative study based on a composite reconstruction of the adult skull.

The Pliocene hominid species Australopithecus afarensis is represented by cranial, dental, and mandibular remains from Hadar, Ethiopia, and Laetoli, Tanzania. These fossils provide important information about the cranial anatomy of the earliest known hominids. Because complete crania or skulls are not known, we produced a composite reconstruction of an adult male skull based on 13 specimens from the Hadar Formation. The reconstruction serves as a testable hypothesis regarding functional relationships in the A. afarensis skull and is the basis for the comparative study presented here. We examine six major aspects of cranial and mandibular anatomy. We combine our results with those of White et al. (1981) in a discussion of alternate hypotheses of early hominid phylogeny. In the cranium, jaws, and teeth A. afarensis exhibits a morphological pattern that we interpret as primitive for the Hominidae. Homo habilis retains a number of these primitive features for which A. africanus, A. robustus, and A. boisei share derived character states, particularly in the masticatory apparatus. Homo and "robust" species of Australopithecus share a suite of derived cranial base features. These shared traits may relate to upper facial orthognathium which is also common to these taxa and are probably indicative of parallelism rather than a close phylogenetic relationship. The cranial base characteristics of A.L. 333-45 do not, contrary to Olson's (1981) claims, provide evidence for an A. afarensis--"robust" Australopithecus sister group. When the range of mastoid variation in extant African pongids and A. afarensis is examined thoroughly, the Pliocene hominid appears to retain a primitive, rather than derived, morphology.
Tuning-free joint sparse recovery via optimization transfer

Multiple measurement vector (MMV) problem addresses the recovery of a set of sparse vectors that have common sparsity pattern. In this paper, we consider a variant of the MMV problem where the common sparsity pattern is obfuscated by an additive noise. Specifically, we study the conditions for perfect reconstruction of the original sparsity pattern. Based on these, we develop a tuning-free algorithm for recovering jointly sparse solutions via the transfer optimization approach. We provide a preliminary numerical evaluation to illustrate our approach.
Functional effects of KCNQ K+ channels in airway smooth muscle

KCNQ (Kv7) channels underlie a voltage-gated K+ current best known for control of neuronal excitability, and its inhibition by Gq/11-coupled, muscarinic signaling. Studies have indicated expression of KCNQ channels in airway smooth muscle (ASM), a tissue that is predominantly regulated by muscarinic receptor signaling. Therefore we investigated the function of KCNQ channels in rodent ASM and their interplay with Gq/11-coupled M3 muscarinic receptors. Perforated-patch clamp of dissociated ASM cells detected a K+ current inhibited by the KCNQ antagonist, XE991, and augmented by the specific agonist, flupirtine. KCNQ channels begin to activate at voltages near resting potentials for ASM cells, and indeed XE991 depolarized resting membrane potentials. Muscarinic receptor activation inhibited KCNQ current weakly (~20%) at concentrations half-maximal for contractions. Thus, we were surprised to see that KCNQ had no affect on membrane voltage or muscle contractility following muscarinic activation. Further, M3 receptor-specific antagonist J104129 fumarate alone did not reveal KCNQ effects on muscarinic evoked depolarization or contractility. However a role for KCNQ channels was revealed when BK-K+ channel activities are reduced. While KCNQ channels do control resting potentials, they appear to play a redundant role with BK calcium-activated K+ channels during ASM muscarinic signaling. In contrast to effect of antagonist, we observe that KCNQ agonist flupirtine caused a significant hyperpolarization and reduced contraction in vitro irrespective of muscarinic activation. Using non-invasive whole animal plethysmography, the clinically approved KCNQ agonist retigabine caused a transient reduction in indexes of airway resistance in both wild type and BK β1 knockout mice treated with the muscarinic agonist. These findings indicate that KCNQ channels can be recruited via agonists to oppose muscarinic evoked contractions and may be of therapeutic value as bronchodilators.
Mechanism of Ribonucleotide Incorporation by Human DNA Polymerase η.

Ribonucleotides and 2'-deoxyribonucleotides are the basic units for RNA and DNA, respectively, and the only difference is the extra 2'-OH group on the ribonucleotide sugar. Cellular rNTP concentrations are much higher than those of dNTP. When copying DNA, DNA polymerases not only select the base of the incoming dNTP to form a Watson-Crick pair with the template base but also distinguish the sugar moiety. Some DNA polymerases use a steric gate residue to prevent rNTP incorporation by creating a clash with the 2'-OH group. Y-family human DNA polymerase η (hpol η) is of interest because of its spacious active site (especially in the major groove) and tolerance of DNA lesions. Here, we show that hpol η maintains base selectivity when incorporating rNTPs opposite undamaged DNA and the DNA lesions 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer but with rates that are 10(3)-fold lower than for inserting the corresponding dNTPs. X-ray crystal structures show that the hpol η scaffolds the incoming rNTP to pair with the template base (dG) or 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine with a significant propeller twist. As a result, the 2'-OH group avoids a clash with the steric gate, Phe-18, but the distance between primer end and Pα of the incoming rNTP increases by 1 A, elevating the energy barrier and slowing polymerization compared with dNTP. In addition, Tyr-92 was identified as a second line of defense to maintain the position of Phe-18. This is the first crystal structure of a DNA polymerase with an incoming rNTP opposite a DNA lesion.
Insecticide Mixtures as an Approach to the Management of Pyrethroid-resistant Horn Flies (Diptera: Muscidae)

The pyrethroids permethrin and cypermethrin were mixed in selected ratios with a synergist (piperonyl butoxide [PB]) and an organophosphorus insecticide (chlorpyrifos) to determine their efficacy on susceptible and resistant populations of horn flies, Haematobia irritans (L.), in the laboratory and field. The addition of either PB or chlorpyrifos to the pyrethroids increased toxicity 1.4- to 4.2-fold and did not change resistance ratios compared with the pyrethroids alone. The pyrethroid/chlorpyrifos/synergist mixture changed toxicity 8.6- to 0.4-fold and generally reduced the level of resistance, compared with the pyrethroids. Field evaluations revealed that no mixture maintained resistant horn fly populations below economically damaging levels, but the addition of PB or chlorpyrifos or both generally improved control. Based on available information concerning toxicity, resistance, and long-term considerations, pyrethroids should be excluded from use in ear tag mixtures for horn fly control.
Direct laser patterning of GaAs(001) surfaces

Analysis of surface images indicates that GaAs(001) surfaces can be patterned directly by applying interferential irradiation of high power laser pulses on the surface. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to image the patterned surfaces. The patterned surface shows strips that have the same separation as the interference period used. The direct laser patterning leaves the surface with trenches. The depth of trenches increases with the laser intensity and can be varied from few nanometers to a few hundred nanometers. At low laser intensity, strip shaped mound appears at the both edges of a trench, leaving a plateau area between them. The width of mound increases with the laser intensity, making the plateau area smaller. With a higher laser intensity, the plateau area disappear as the mounds merge together, forming a single strip between the adjacent trenches. AFM images from the patterned surface indicate that direct laser patterning can be used to fabricate nanostructures with a period smaller than that of the interference period as well as the wavelength of the laser used.
Quantitative online sheath-flow surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy detection for liquid chromatography

Sheath-flow surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was used for online detection and quantification of small molecules separated by liquid chromatography. A mixture of model metabolites (thiamine, folic acid, and riboflavin) was separated and characterized by UV-Vis and SERS detectors connected in series. Acetonitrile in the mobile phase provided an internal standard enabling quantitative detection across SERS experiments.
Study Progress of Mammary Stem Cells in Animal

Mammary stem cells(MaSCs)possess the ability to generate all differentiated cell types in the mammary gland. During the process of mammary development,MaSCs are critical for the growth and reconstruction of mammary tissue in puberty,pregnancy stage,lactation and lactation recession stage.The MaSCs under in vitro culture are ideal experimental model for studying the proliferation,differentiation,survival and apoptosis of mammary cells,and potential approach for producing mammary gland bioreactor.Therefore,the researches about MaSCs are of great importance to the understanding of mammary development,therapy of mammary cancer and agricultural production.This paper will give a systematic review for the localization,purification and in vitro culture of MaSCs,and show prospects of the researches and applications about MaSCs.
Zika in the United States of America and a Fateful 1969 Decision

The United States Gulf Coast’s current risk to Zika transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can be traced back to some important federal health policy decisions made during the 1960s.
Factors Associated With Timing of Return to Intercourse After Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries

Abstract Introduction The impact of obstetric perineal trauma on timing of return to intercourse is unclear, although sexual desire is clearly decreased in these women. In addition, studies examining timing of return to intercourse are cross-sectional and therefore cannot delineate potential reasons that patients might delay return to intercourse. Aim To identify factors associated with delayed return to intercourse after obstetric anal sphincter injuries. Methods This was a planned secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study of women sustaining obstetric anal sphincter injuries during delivery of a full-term singleton infant. Patients completed the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index at every postpartum visit (1, 2, 6, and 12 weeks) and the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 once resuming vaginal intercourse. Intercourse was considered "delayed" if patients did not resume intercourse by the 12-week visit. This cutoff was chosen because it was subsequent to the 6-week visit, when patients were instructed to return to normal pelvic activity. Continuous variables were compared using the Student t-test (parametric) or Mann-Whitney U-test (non-parametric). The χ 2 test was used for categorical variables. Statistical significance was assigned with a P value less than .05. Main Outcome Measures Primary outcome measurements were differences in pelvic floor symptoms on validated surveys between the "delayed" and "not-delayed" groups at the first postpartum visit and at the time the subjects returned to intercourse. We used the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for depression, the Urinary Distress Inventory-6 and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 for urinary symptoms, the visual analog scale for pain, the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index for bowel symptoms, and the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 at the return to intercourse visit only. Results One hundred ninety-nine women were included in this analysis. Most were Caucasian (77%) and primiparous (86%). One hundred nineteen women (60%) did not resume vaginal intercourse until after the 12-week visit and were deemed "delayed." Patients who delayed intercourse scored higher on the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (more anal incontinence) than those who resumed intercourse before 12 weeks (15.4 ± 12.3 vs 12.0 ± 12.8, P = .02). The delayed group also had worse sexual function, shown as lower Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 scores (35.4 ± 5.9 vs 38.4 ± 4.1, P ≤ .001) and persistently higher Fecal Incontinence Severity Index scores (4.1 ± 7.3 vs 1.6 ± 4.4, P = .001), at the first visit after returning to intercourse. Conclusion Patients with obstetric anal sphincter injuries who do not resume intercourse by 12 weeks postpartum report more severe anal incontinence symptoms and worse sexual function after return to coitus.
Increasing Engagement with Virtual Agents Using Automatic Camera Motion

We describe a series of algorithms which automatically control camera position in a virtual environment while a user is engaged in a simulated face-to-face dialog with a single virtual agent. The common objective of the algorithms is to increase user engagement with the interaction. In our work, we describe three different automated camera control systems that: (1) control the camera’s position based on topic changes in dialog; (2) use sentiment analysis to control the camera-to-agent distance; and (3) adjust the camera’s depth-of-field based on “important” segments of the dialog. Evaluation studies of each method are described. We find that changing camera position based on topic shifts results in significant increases in a self-reported measure of engagement, while the other methods seem to actually decrease user engagement. Interpretations and ramifications of the results are discussed.
TraPL: Track Planning of Local Congestion for Global Routing

We propose a framework to quickly analyze track congestion inside each g-cell at the global routing stage. A distinguishing feature of our framework compared to prior work is estimating the locations of vias and partial track utilization by a global segment inside each g-cell for a given global routing solution. We integrate this model with a proposed track assignment algorithm which we show can more effectively reduce track overlaps compared to prior work. A strength of this work is to evaluate the accuracy with respect to an accurate congestion map generated by a commercial detailed router as reference. This work is a step towards bridging the gap between global and detailed routing which is an important obstacle facing modern IC design.
Abstract 65: Restoration of Growth Differentiation Factor 11 Protects Against Stroke in Mice

Introduction: GDF 11 is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Loss of GDF11 occurs with aging and declining levels correlate with several detrimental age-associated phenotypes in both peripheral tissues and brain. Restoration of GDF11 enhances neurogenesis and cognitive function in aged mice. Brain expression of GDF11 has not been investigated after stroke. Stroke differentially affects the elderly. In this work we examined the role of GDF11 in aging, stroke and its potential utility as a neuroprotective agent. Methods: Male C57/BL6NCrl young (2-3 months) and aged (19-21) mice were used. Brain GDF11 expression was evaluated in young and aged mice by western blot. Focal ischemia was induced with a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Mice were randomly assigned into two groups and were subjected to 90 min MCAO. Group 1 received vehicle (phosphate buffered saline) and group 2 was administered rGDF11 (100 ug/kg., ip) at the onset of ischemia. In additional experiments, the efficacy of delayed treatment (3 h after ischemia) with rGDF11 was tested. These mice were subjected to a 60 min MCAO. Mice were euthanized after 24 hours and 7 days respectively and brains were harvested to estimate infarct area. Results: A significant decrease in brain GDF11 levels was observed in aged mice as compared to young (p Conclusions: Brain GDF11 levels decline with age and after stroke. Supplementation with rGDF11 ameliorates stroke induced injury in young mice at 24h and 7 days. These finding suggest potential role of GDF11 in age and stroke. Restoration of age-related loss of GDF may be a viable therapy for stroke.
Automated Personalized Assessment of Computational Thinking MOOC Assignments

One of the major hurdles toward automatic semantic understanding of computer programs is the lack of knowledge about what constitutes functional equivalence of code segments. We postulate that a sound knowledgebase can be used to deductively understand code segments in a hierarchical fashion by first de-constructing a code and then reconstructing it from elementary knowledge and equivalence rules of elementary code segments. The approach can also be engineered to produce computable programs from conceptual and abstract algorithms as an inverse function. In this paper, we introduce the core idea behind the MindReader online assessment system that is able to understand a wide variety of elementary algorithms students learn in their entry level programming classes such as Java, C++ and Python. The MindReader system is able to assess student assignments and guide them how to develop correct and better code in real time without human assistance.
In-State and Interstate Associations Between Gun Shows and Firearm Deaths and Injuries: A Quasi-experimental Study.

Although gun shows are an important source of firearms, it is not known whether they are associated with increased firearm-related injury or whether this association differs by state. This study as...
Self-Guided Online Cognitive Behavioral Strategies for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Multicenter, Pilot, Randomized, Wait-List Controlled Trial.

Abstract The purpose of this pilot, parallel, randomized controlled trial was to examine the efficacy of a self-guided online cognitive and behaviorally-based pain management intervention (Proactive Self-Management Program for Effects of Cancer Treatment [PROSPECT]) to reduce “worst” pain for individuals with chronic painful chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Secondary outcomes included “average” pain, nonpainful CIPN symptom severity, impression of change, and pain interference. Sixty patients with chronic painful CIPN were recruited from 5 outpatient academic and community cancer centers. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 8 weeks of PROSPECT or usual care. A 7-day electronic “worst” pain intensity diary and standardized measures of pain interference, nonpainful CIPN symptom severity, impression of change, and “average” pain were administered pre/post intervention. Postintervention mean scores were evaluated between groups using analysis of covariance adjusting for baseline. Individuals who received the PROSPECT intervention (n = 19) had significantly greater improvements in “worst pain” compared with individuals receiving usual care (n = 19; P = .046, d = .58). There were no significant differences in mean scores between groups for the secondary outcomes (n = 42). A larger, adequately powered study testing the PROSPECT intervention is needed to determine if improvements in pain may be sustained, evaluate the effect of the intervention on the secondary outcomes, and identify mediators of pain intensity-related improvement. Perspective This study explores the efficacy of an 8-week online cognitive behavioral pain management intervention for chronic painful CIPN. Intervention use resulted in greater improvements in “worst” pain than usual care alone. The findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of a nonpharmacological intervention for chronic painful CIPN.
Cell-Specific Requirements for STAT Proteins and Type I IFN Receptor Signaling Discretely Regulate IL-24 and IL-10 Expression in NK Cells and Macrophages.

Il10 forms a cytokine cluster with Il19 , Il20 , and Il24 in a conserved region of chromosome 1. The latter genes are in the IL-20 subfamily of IL-10–related cytokines and, although they are not as well studied their biologic actions and expression patterns, seem to have little in common with IL-10. IL-24, like IL-10, however, is uniquely expressed in T cells and is a signature gene of the Th2 lineage, which suggests they could be coregulated in certain cell types. Little is known about other cellular sources of IL-24. We investigated IL-24 and IL-10 expression in murine macrophages and NK cells, and found that although they are coexpressed under most stimulation conditions, IL-24 and IL-10 are controlled by distinct, cell type–specific pathways. In bone marrow–derived macrophages, optimal IL-24 expression required LPS+IL-4 costimulation and STAT6 but was independent of type I IFN receptor signaling and STAT4. Conversely, LPS-induced IL-10 was independent of IL-4/STAT6 and STAT4 but, consistent with other reports, required type I IFN receptor signaling for optimal expression. Remarkably, NK-specific IL-24 (but not IL-10) expression was dependent on both type I IFN receptor signaling and STAT4. Induction of IL-24 expression was accompanied by cell-specific recruitment of STAT6 and STAT4 to multiple sites that we identified within Il24 , which mediated STAT-dependent histone modifications across the gene. Collectively, our results indicate that despite being coexpressed, IL-10 and IL-24 are independently regulated by different type I IFN receptor signaling pathways in innate immune cells and provide insight into the mechanisms that fine-tune cell type–specific gene expression within the Il10 cluster.
Possible Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Associated with Eucalyptus: Case Report

Abstract: Background: Reversible cerebral vasoconstrictive syndrome (RCVS) is clinically characterized by a sudden onset thunderclap-like headache or severe headache over a few weeks which can be confirmed by radiological imaging showing areas of ischemia or subarachnoid hemorrhage confined to convexity. The majority of RCVS cases are associated with use of antidepressants, polysubstance abuse and nasal decongestants. We here present a case that highlights the use of eucalyptus herbs as a possible precipitant factor for RCVS formation. Case Presentation: A 42 year-old woman presented to the emergency department with a tingling sensation on the right side of her body and a two-week progressive throbbing severe holocranial headache radiating to the neck, with associated nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. She denied any seizures and recent trauma or fevers. She was not taking scheduled medications, but she had used inhaling vapors obtained from boiling eucalyptus leaves to alleviate sinus congestion. Initial imaging revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage at bilateral posterior parietal convexity leading to her admission into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Further work up disclosed the presence of findings consistent with RCVS. Conclusion: In conclusion, we hereby postulate that some herbal remedies used in alternative medicine, including eucalyptus could play a role in causing serotonergic symptoms including dizziness, diarrhea, and cerebral vasoconstriction. Understanding that eucalyptus has the potential to contribute to RCVS due to its serotoninergic activity may be of importance in the diagnosis and management of these patients.
Flow boiling of HFE-7100 in silicon microchannels integrated with multiple micro-nozzles and reentry micro-cavities

Abstract Flow boiling of dielectric fluids in microchannels is one of the most desirable cooling solutions for high power electronics. However, the flow boiling of dielectric fluids is hindered by their unfavorable thermophysical properties. Specifically, without precooling dielectric fluids, it is challenging to promote critical heat flux (CHF) due to its high vapor density, low surface tension and the resulted superior wettability. In this study, each side wall of a five-parallel silicon microchannel array was structured with an array of microscale reentry cavities and four micronozzles bypassed by an auxiliary channel. The present microchannel configuration aims to significantly enhance CHF of HFE-7100 flow boiling by improving global liquid supply using auxiliary channels and micrononozzles as well as by sustaining liquid film using capillarity induced by reentry cavity array. Equally important, these structures can promote nucleate boiling at low heat flux, generate intense mixing, and promote thin film evaporation at high heat flux, resulting in high flow boiling heat transfer rate. Flow boiling of HFE-7100 in the present microchannel configuration is characterized with mass flux ranging from 231 kg/m2 s to 1155 kg/m2 s. The effective two-phase heat transfer coefficients (HTCs) are ranging from 6 kW/m2 K to 117 kW/m2 K. Compared to the four-nozzle plain-wall microchannels, for example, the effective HTC and CHF can be substantially enhanced up to 208% and 37%, respectively, without escalating pressure drop at a mass flux of 462 kg/m2 s. Compared to plain microchannels with inlet restrictors, CHF is considerably enhanced up to 70% with a reduction of pressure drop ∼82% at a mass flux of 1155 kg/m2 s. Significantly reduced pressure drop is achieved by integrating bypass and the enhanced confined bubble removal. A peak CHF value of 216 W/cm2 is achieved at mass flux of 2772 kg/m2 s in the present microchannel configuration with inlet temperature at room temperature.